Have you ever felt guilty for enjoying the spotlight? This week we talk with singer, songwriter, and voice coach Melissa V. Cartwright about what it means to grow up evangelical, wrestle with performance, and deconstruct the old programming that told us our art could only be “for God’s glory.” Together, we explore perfectionism, fear, and how to reclaim joy, play, and the freedom to be fully seen.

Melissa’s Bio:
Singer, Songwriter, and Bilingual Voice and Performance Coach Melissa V. Cartwright is the founder of MVC Performance and the host of Passionate Performer PODCAST (in fact, Emily was a guest on her show—and we’ve the episode below). With over 25 years of experience in TV, radio, studio work, and musical theatre, she helps artists step on stage with confidence—whether it’s their very first open mic or a headlining show. 

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Where to find Melissa:

Website: www.mvcperformance.com
Instagram: @mvcperformance
TikTok: @mvcperformance
Passionate Performer Podcast: on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

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References:

TIMECODES
0:00 - Intro
5:11 - Growing up in fundamentalist Christianity as performers
6:38 - Melissa’s history & deconstruction
14:53 - Communication & overspiritualization
19:17 - “I don’t have to hate God to not buy into the bullshit”
19:33 - Worship leading & our bids for connection
23:18 - The weight of overspiritualization & perfectionism
25:26 - Performance: for God or for you? & FEAR
32:00 - Do we need constant saving?
32:48 - From saving the world to play