In this week’s episode, Lisa interviews Florence K, award-winning musician, author, and mental health advocate. Florence talks with Lisa about her experience growing up in a musical household and the bond of touring musicians. She also addresses the challenges of being a professional musician. In her current work as a PhD candidate in clinical psychology at the University of Quebec in Montréal, she explores the complex link between mood, creativity, and well-being in the performing arts. Joining in the conversation is Dr. Aimée Gaudette-Leblanc. Aimée is a professor and researcher whose work focuses on early childhood development, parent-child relationships, and the role of arts and culture in family well-being. Aimée shares insight into the family ensemble, sensitive and responsive parenting, and the joy of observing your children musicking.

Florence K’s artist page

Florence K shares “My Story” in The Catalyst, publication of The Mental Health Commission of Canada. 

Florence K’s co-authored article, “Exploring the well-being of professional female musicians: a self-determination theory perspective” in Frontiers in Psychology

Aimée’s co-authored article, “The implications of participating in a Music Early Learning Program for parental sensitivity and socioemotional functioning in children aged 2–5 years: A randomized control trial” in Psychology of Music

Aimée’s faculty homepage

Sesame Street song “Put Down the Duckie” discussed in episode