Why do so many guitarists quit — even after years of playing?

In this episode of The Guitar Underground, Neil Santos talks candidly about the five most common reasons guitarists walk away from the instrument — and five powerful reasons they shouldn’t.

Drawing from nearly four decades of playing, teaching, and learning, Neil breaks down:

• Why progress rarely feels linear

• How comparison and isolation sabotage motivation

• Why struggle doesn’t mean lack of talent

• What plateaus are really doing beneath the surface

• And why the hardest phase often comes right before things finally click

If you’ve ever felt stuck, discouraged, or wondered whether it’s worth continuing, this episode is for you.

🎸 Want guidance beyond the podcast?
Visit PentatonicWay.com to learn more about Neil’s membership for guitarists who want to simplify the fretboard, practice with intention, and actually apply what they learn to real music.

In this first episode of The Guitar Underground, Neil Santos takes a pressure-free look at guitar goal setting. Instead of rigid deadlines and unrealistic expectations, he explores a more sustainable way to think about progress—one built on direction, relationships, and long-term growth. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for decades, this episode will help you rethink what success on the guitar really means and how to move forward without burning out.