Founder & President | Mike Simon

Mike Simon’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity. Growing up just outside of Chicago, Mike was immersed in the city’s vibrant and diverse music scene. From early encounters with Maxwell Street blues performers to coming of age during the alternative rock explosion, Chicago provided an extraordinary backdrop for his musical development. “I remember my parents taking me into the city as a kid, exposing me to incredible live street performers and legendary recording artists,” he recalls.

Mike picked up the guitar and started singing at just six years old, and by the age of 10, he was performing for large audiences. Over the next several years, he honed his craft as a singer, guitarist, and songwriter, laying the foundation for a lifelong career in music.

In addition to his passion for teaching, Mike is a seasoned recording artist and mix engineer. Over the years, he has worked alongside legendary talents, including Eddie Kramer (known for his work with Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, and The Beatles) and many other gifted musicians and producers. His latest album, Break to the Grey, is a testament to his artistic vision and is available on all major streaming platforms as well as at officialmikesimon.com.

In his early adulthood, Mike’s curiosity extended beyond music to the skies. Drawn to the precision and discipline of aviation, he pursued a degree in Aviation, earning both his commercial pilot’s license and instructor certifications. He found a parallel between flying and music: both require precision, multitasking, passion, and intuition. However, an oversaturated job market in aviation led him back to his first love—music. Mike returned to Chicago’s North Shore and reignited his passion for teaching guitar.

Determined to create opportunities for fellow musicians, Mike founded My Teachers Network, an initiative that has helped thousands of music educators connect with students across the United States. His vision transformed the way music is taught, empowering instructors to share their expertise with children and families nationwide.

Today, My Teachers Network continues to thrive, with a vast team of dedicated instructors who have taught thousands of families across the country. Despite its growth, the organization remains committed to its core values: a personalized, one-on-one approach and the enduring power of in-person music lessons.

Mike’s multifaceted career—from a young guitarist inspired by Chicago’s music scene to a nationally recognized music educator, recording artist, and mix engineer—reflects his lifelong devotion to sharing the joy of music and inspiring others to pursue their creative passions.

Vice President  | Juliet Adams

Juliet was born in sunny San Diego, California, and was raised across the country as part of an active navy family. While many days were spent at the beach, her true calling emerged early: a deep love for the arts. Her mother, who emphasized both a well-rounded education and exposure to the arts, introduced her to a rich variety of music, spanning ’60s and ’70s folk and rock, ’80s pop, Latin music, and Broadway classics. This eclectic exposure resulted in Juliet’s appreciation for song structure, intricate instrumental arrangements, and the magic of live performance. Her passion for music blossomed as she excelled in her studies at Portland State University and captivated audiences with vocal performances ranging from contemporary hits to baroque opera.

In 2020, Juliet’s song Red Roses earned her a spot in the Semi-Finals in the prestigious International Songwriting Competition, selected from over 20,000 entries worldwide. Shortly after, she collaborated with Mike Simon to produce and record the final tracks for the album Break to the Grey. Juliet continues to write and create original material, with her much-anticipated solo album currently in development.

As Vice President and Partner of My Teachers Network, Juliet brings boundless creativity, fresh perspective, and visionary leadership to MTN’s operations and mission. Her dedication to fostering musical and academic talent and sharing the transformative power of music ensures the continued growth and success of the network.