A Voice and Beyond

What if you spent more than half a century knowing you were loved, but still wondering where you came from?

For Julie Melanson, being adopted was never a secret. She grew up surrounded by family and love, yet questions about her biological identity remained part of her story. Then, at 51, Julie made the decision that would change her life: she went searching for her birth mother.

And she found her.

In this deeply moving episode of A Voice and Beyond, Julie shares the extraordinary story behind her memoir, Not Yours to Keep—a story of adoption, identity, belonging, motherhood, grief, courage, and the complicated emotions that can accompany discovering where we come from.

Julie takes us inside the moment she finally connected with her birth mother and heard the words that changed everything: her mother had been looking for her too.

What followed was an opportunity Julie could once only have imagined—the chance to know her biological mother, connect with birth siblings, discover extraordinary similarities within her biological family, and begin filling in pieces of her own identity.

But this isn't simply a story about finding a birth mother.

In this conversation we explore:

• The emotional risks involved in searching for biological family
• What it feels like to recognise yourself in people you've only just met
• Nature, nurture and the formation of identity
• The complicated emotions surrounding adoption
• Julie's experience of loving—and losing—two mothers
• Grief, resilience and the enduring nature of family bonds
• What Julie would like other adoptees to know
• Why understanding our past can sometimes transform our relationship with the present

This episode will resonate far beyond the adoption community.

Because underneath Julie's remarkable story lies a question almost every human being asks at some point:

Who am I and how much of who I am has come from where I came from?

Find Julie Here:

• juliemelansonauthor.com/
• linkedin.com/in/julie-melanson-3b27124/
• facebook.com/juliemelan/
• instagram.com/julie_melanson_author/

Book:

• Not Yours to Keep: A Story about Adoption and the Strength and Resilience of Two Women - https://juliemelansonauthor.com/#container10

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What happens when the voice you've relied on your entire life suddenly stops working?

For veteran performer, voice coach, speaker, lecturer, and bestselling author Elisa James, losing her voice wasn't simply a physical problem, it became a deeply personal journey that ultimately transformed the way she understood confidence, communication, and what it truly means to have a voice.

In this inspiring episode of A Voice and Beyond, Elisa shares her journey from a successful career as a singer and actor to experiencing vocal nodules and Muscle Tension Dysphonia and ultimately rebuilding her voice—and herself—from the inside out.

But this conversation goes far beyond singing.

Because whether you're performing on a stage, delivering a keynote, leading a meeting, teaching a class, appearing on camera, or simply trying to make yourself heard, your voice communicates far more than your words.

Elisa explains the fascinating connection between psychology and physiology and how fear, insecurity, stress, and imposter syndrome can influence the way we sound. We explore why confidence can change vocal delivery, how our voices reveal what's happening internally, and why finding your voice can sometimes mean rediscovering who you are.

Drawing on more than 35 years in the entertainment and voice industries, Elisa also shares practical strategies for creating a more engaging, compelling speaking voice.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The relationship between physical voice problems and emotional wellbeing
• How confidence can affect the voice physiologically
• Why imposter syndrome changes how we communicate
• How to rebuild vocal confidence after losing your voice
• Why executives and performers often experience similar communication challenges
• How to create greater color, variety, and interest in your speaking voice
• Why presentation preparation should involve your body, mind, and voice
• How to project the voice without creating unnecessary strain
• Strategies for reducing vocal fatigue
• Why your voice is one of your greatest communication tools
• How to begin finding your voice after feeling silenced

Finding your voice isn't simply about learning how to speak louder. It's about believing that what you have to say deserves to be heard.

This is a conversation about resilience, confidence, communication, identity, and reclaiming one of the most powerful tools you possess, your voice.

Find Elisa Here:

• elisajames.com
• facebook.com/HapsVoicePro
• instagram.com/elisajames.voicecoach
• linkedin.com/in/elisa-james-voice-coach
• youtube.com/@TheVoiceofConfidence

Books:

• Find Your Voice: elisajames.com/findyourvoice/
• The 7 Deadly Sins of Public Speaking: elisajames.com/7-deadly-sins/

Blog:

• elisajames.com/blog/

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What if singers stopped thinking of themselves simply as artists... and started thinking of themselves as vocal athletes?

That simple mindset shift has the power to transform not only how singers perform, but how they care for their bodies, protect their voices, and build sustainable careers.

In this inspiring episode of A Voice and Beyond, internationally renowned laryngologist and voice surgeon Dr. Reena Gupta joins me to discuss the future of vocal health and why every singer deserves access to world-class education, preventative care, and a collaborative support team.

As the founder of the Center for Vocal Health and co-founder of The Svara Project, Dr. Gupta has dedicated her career to helping singers, actors, voice actors and professional voice users develop healthy, resilient voices that last a lifetime. Through the Svara Project, she is working to remove barriers to vocal health education, injury prevention, artist advocacy and mental health support so that every voice has the opportunity to thrive. (The Svara Project)

In this episode you'll discover:

• Why singers should think of themselves as vocal athletes
• The biggest misconceptions about vocal health
• Early warning signs of vocal injury
• How to build a long, sustainable singing career
• Why prevention is always better than rehabilitation
• The physical, mental and emotional demands placed on performers
• The importance of building a multidisciplinary support team
• Why mental health is essential to vocal performance
• How the Svara Project is expanding access to vocal health education around the world
• What every singer should know before stepping on stage

Whether you're an emerging singer, an experienced performer, a singing teacher, or simply someone who relies on your voice professionally, this conversation offers practical, evidence-based insights to help you care for your most valuable instrument.

Find Reena Here:

• centerforvocalhealth.com/
• facebook.com/centerforvocalhealth/
• instagram.com/centerforvocalhealth
• tiktok.com/@voicedoctor
• linkedin.com/in/reena-gupta-91ab484/

SVARA:

• svaraproject.com/
• instagram.com/svaraproject/
• facebook.com/svaraproject
• youtube.com/@svaraproject3985

SVARA Oz Tickets: 

• svaraproject.com/event-tickets-special-offers
• Discount code: SVARA10 (10% Off)

Blog:

• centerforvocalhealth.com/blog-3

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What if the reason you feel stuck in your career isn't because you don't have the answers, but because you're waiting too long to act?

In a world where layoffs are rising, AI is reshaping industries, and millions of people are competing for attention online, traditional networking is no longer enough.

In this episode, our guest Jen Fort introduces a powerful shift: Connectworking®, a powerful and practical human-first approach she developed to building relationships, and creating opportunity, and moving forward before you feel ready.

After rebuilding her own career following an unexpected shift, Jen discovered that success doesn't come from perfect résumés or polished pitches, it comes from meaningful conversations.

In this episode we explore:

• Why traditional networking no longer works
• The concept of Connectworking® and how to apply it
• How to start conversations without feeling awkward
• How to create opportunity in uncertain times
• Why introverts have an advantage
• How to stand out without sounding inauthentic
• The role of human connection in an AI-driven world
• Simple, practical ways to build confidence and visibility

This episode is especially relevant for anyone navigating career transitions, building a business, or trying to stand out in a crowded digital world.

Find Jen Here:

• iamjenfort.com/
• linkedin.com/in/jenfort/
• instagram.com/iamjenfort/
• tiktok.com/@iamjenfort

Resources:

• The Wisdom & Warnings® Collection: iamjenfort.com/books

Books:

• Stop Networking, Start Connectworking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GGFG28QK
• The Badass Woman: Daily Wisdom for Living Your Boldest Life (365 Days of Wisdom & Warnings) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXLDH9LL

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What happens when a legal case becomes global entertainment?

When a celebrity is accused of serious wrongdoing, the public rarely waits for a courtroom verdict before forming an opinion. News headlines, documentaries, podcasts, social media commentary and viral clips can shape a narrative long before all the available evidence has been examined.

In this compelling episode of A Voice and Beyond, I speak with attorney and legal commentator James Porfido about the complex relationship between celebrity, media influence, public opinion and the justice system.

Drawing on high-profile cases involving figures such as Michael Jackson and Sean "Diddy" Combs, James explores what happens when allegations are tried simultaneously in a courtroom and in the court of public opinion.

Our conversation is not about declaring guilt or innocence. Instead, it examines how we consume stories about public figures, how easily allegation can be confused with proof and why critical thinking is essential when legal proceedings become part of popular culture.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why public opinion is not the same as a legal verdict
• The difference between an allegation, evidence and proof
• How celebrity status can influence the way legal cases are reported
• Michael Jackson's legal history and the continuing debate surrounding his legacy
• The complexity around cases involving Sean "Diddy" Combs and Jeffrey Epstein
• Whether celebrity defendants can receive a genuinely fair trial
• How confirmation bias affects the information we accept or reject
• Why due process matters, even when public emotions are intense
• The danger of confusing online popularity with credibility
• How audiences can become more responsible consumers of legal content

This episode is ultimately a conversation about media literacy, justice and personal responsibility.

It is a reminder that critical thinking does not mean dismissing allegations or refusing to believe those who come forward. It means holding space for seriousness and compassion while also respecting evidence, due process and the presumption of innocence.

Find James Here:

• justicewithporfido.com/
• facebook.com/porfidolaw
• instagram.com/jamesporfido/
• linkedin.com/in/james-m-porfido-b007461a1/

Book:

• Unequal Justice: The Search for Truth to Balance the Scales
  xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/861729-unequal-justice

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What if the reason you feel overwhelmed isn't because you're failing, but because your brain is overloaded?

We are living in an era where stress has become the norm, with over 75% of people reporting feeling overwhelmed. And yet, the human brain was never designed for this constant level of stimulation and pressure.

In this powerful episode, psychologist Dr. Erika Horwitz shares insights from over 30 years of experience, along with cutting-edge neuroscience on neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change, adapt, and rewire itself.

In this episode we explore: 

✔ Why we are living in an "era of overwhelm" 
✔ What chronic stress does to the brain 
✔ The science of neuroplasticity and how change is possible 
✔ How to rewire your brain for calm and resilience 
✔ The “5 Things Exercise” and how it works 
✔ Why mental health stigma still exists — and how to shift it 
✔ The rise of anxiety in children and why early intervention matters 
✔ Practical tools you can use immediately

This conversation is not just informative. It's practical, empowering, and filled with tools you can apply immediately.

If you’re ready for a calmer mind, greater resilience, and a new way of understanding your mental health, this episode is for you.

Find Erika Here:

• mindfulnessyvr.com/
• facebook.com/erika.horwitz
• instagram.com/dr.erika_h

Book:

Improbable and Extraordinary: A Transformation of Mental Illness and Addiction by Saul Horwitz and Erika Horwitz, PHD

https://improbableandextraordinary.com/

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

In Part 2 of my conversation with Shila Patel, we move beyond understanding inner turmoil and explore the profound impact our relationships, communities, and sense of connection have on our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Drawing on more than 25 years as a practicing psychiatrist, Dr. Patel shares why loneliness has become one of the defining public health challenges of our time, how stigma continues to prevent people from seeking help, and why meaningful healing begins with personal responsibility, self-awareness, and authentic human connection.

Together, we discuss the changing landscape of modern relationships, the importance of rebuilding community, and how compassion, accountability, and respect can help us create healthier families and stronger societies.

If you've ever felt isolated, misunderstood, or overwhelmed by today's fast-paced world, this conversation offers both hope and practical wisdom.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why loneliness is becoming a global health crisis
• The connection between loneliness and mental illness
• Why social isolation may be one of the earliest warning signs of emotional distress
• Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health
• The impact of modern relationships on emotional wellbeing
• Why personal responsibility is essential for healing
• How stronger communities create healthier individuals
• Building resilience through meaningful human connection

This episode reminds us that when we have the courage to reconnect, with ourselves, with others, and with what truly matters.

Find Dr. Patel Here:

• drshilapatel.com/
• facebook.com/shilapatel.144/
• twitter.com/Manjri56Patel
• https://www.youtube.com/@shilapatel6787

Book:

• US Unhinged - amazon.com.au/Unhinged-Dr-Shila-Patel-M-D-ebook/dp/B09QL9V46L

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

Are you building your online presence on borrowed land?

In today's digital world, many creatives, entrepreneurs, coaches, and performers spend years building audiences on social media while overlooking the one asset they truly own: their online identity.

Joe has spent decades helping businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations build their online presence and has been involved in the launch of dozens of successful top-level domains around the world.

In this episode, Joe shares why your domain name is far more than a website address. It's the foundation of your brand, your credibility, and your long-term visibility online.

Together we explore:

• Why most people build their online brand backwards
• The biggest mistakes creatives make online
• How to choose a domain name that supports your career long-term
• Why social media should support your brand, not become your brand
• How to create a digital presence that grows with you over time

Whether you're launching a business, building a creative career, or growing your personal brand, this conversation offers practical advice that could save you years of frustration.

FIND JOE HERE:

• alagna.com
• instagram.com/j_alagna
• x.com/joealagna
• youtube.com/@joealagna 
• linkedin.com/in/joealagna

BOOK:
How To Get Your Own Top-Level Domain (TLD) - amazon.com/dp/B0FD3DTB5J

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

Why do so many people feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and internally conflicted — even when life appears stable on the outside?

In this deeply insightful conversation, Dr. Shila Patel draws on more than two decades of psychiatric practice to explore the roots of inner turmoil and how individuals can reclaim peace, responsibility, and emotional clarity.

Her global life journey and clinical experience provide a unique lens on identity, resilience, relationships, mental health stigma, and the societal pressures shaping today's emotional landscape.

In this episode we explore:

• What inner turmoil really is — and why so many people experience it
• How to take responsibility for your inner world without self-blame
• The stigma surrounding mental health and how to overcome it
• The psychological impact of modern parenting styles
• Healing after harassment, trauma, or emotional wounds
• How societal instability affects emotional wellbeing
• The path toward inner peace and emotional freedom

This part 1 episode with Dr Shila Patel, examines the emotional realities affecting individuals, families, and future generations — and offers practical pathways toward healing and personal responsibility. Part 2 of this episode will be released on July 6th.

Find Dr. Patel Here:

• drshilapatel.com/
• facebook.com/shilapatel.144/
• twitter.com/Manjri56Patel
• https://www.youtube.com/@shilapatel6787

Book:

• US Unhinged - amazon.com.au/Unhinged-Dr-Shila-Patel-M-D-ebook/dp/B09QL9V46L

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

Why do so many people reach midlife feeling disconnected from themselves?

In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Brian Dixon — known professionally as Dixon — shares his journey from quiet misalignment and emotional drift to reclaiming purpose, courage, and authenticity later in life.

Dixon, is an adventurer, author, speaker, and founder of The Someday NOW Project, a human re-engagement movement dedicated to helping people reconnect with purpose, energy, and the parts of themselves they may have lost to burnout, routine, and misalignment.

After a life-threatening pulmonary embolism following a mountain bike accident, Dixon realized the life he was living no longer aligned with who he truly was. At 52 years old, he trained for two years before launching a paraglider solo off Lookout Mountain in Colorado, a moment that became symbolic of reclaiming his voice, identity, and future.

Today, Dixon helps individuals, leaders, and organizations recognize the signs of disengagement and reconnect with meaningful action, ownership, and authentic living. He is the author of Hold My Beer: I’m Going Back in the Game.

Together, we explore:

• why so many men silently struggle in midlife
• the emotional cost of always playing the provider or superhero role
• what Dixon calls the “Man-Zombie Epidemic”
• the importance of challenge, adventure, and authentic living
• and how reconnecting with yourself can completely change your life

This episode is deeply honest, inspiring, and relevant for anyone who has ever felt disconnected from themselves or stuck living a life that no longer fits.

Find Dixon Here:

• gowithdixon.com/
• facebook.com/DixonColoradoRealtor
• linkedin.com/in/briandixonstoryteller/
• youtube.com/@LiveWhereYouPlayTV

Book:

• Hold My Beer: I'm Going Back In The Game - 
  https://gowithdixon.com/#container16

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...