What if your pain could become someone else’s healing? On this episode of The Big Silence, Karena sits down with rising country star Avery Anna on the eve of her 10th Grand Ole Opry performance. From humble beginnings recording in her mom’s bathtub to signing with Warner Music Nashville, Avery’s journey is anything but typical. But it’s her vulnerability that sets her apart. Inspired by fan-written “Let Go Letters” — anonymous notes sharing raw experiences of trauma, self-doubt, body image struggles, and more — Avery turned these confessions into her sophomore album, Let Go Letters (out May 16). In this heartfelt conversation, she shares how music became her therapy, how she balances the pressures of social media, and why songs like “Danny Don’t,” “Grave,” and “Self-Esteem for Sale” might just save a life.

How Can We Transform Pain into Purpose Through Music?

Avery reveals how fans’ anonymous letters inspired her to write songs that create community, healing, and understanding — proving we are never truly alone in what we’re going through.

(00:01:00) From TikTok to the Grand Ole Opry — Avery’s Unexpected Breakthrough

• Pandemic boredom led Avery to post singing videos on TikTok — one went viral, launching her career.
• Discovered by band Parmalee and signed to Warner Music Nashville within months.
• Talks about imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and how faith and family keep her grounded.
• How her upbringing in a close-knit, faith-based family in Flagstaff, Arizona shaped her values.

(00:04:50) The Birth of Let Go Letters: Turning Fans’ Pain Into Powerful Music

• Avery began collecting anonymous fan letters at her shows, sparking the concept for Let Go Letters.
• Writing songs like “Danny Don’t” based on a letter from a fan contemplating suicide.
• The emotional toll and responsibility of holding space for her fans' deepest traumas.
• How her music offers a safe space for healing — not just for fans, but for herself too.

(00:09:30) Writing About the Unspoken: Body Image, Sexual Trauma, and Self-Worth

• Songs like “Vanilla” and “Grave” tackle sexual trauma with raw honesty.
• “Self-Esteem for Sale” reflects the pressure of being a product on social media.
• Avery shares how she protects her mental health by setting boundaries with technology.
• The importance of reminding herself that her worth comes from who she is, not what she posts.

(00:20:00) Pre-Show Rituals, Tour Life, and the Realities Behind the Glam

• Touring isn’t all glitz: van life, flat tires, and DIY road trips with her band.
• Her quirky pre-show routine: honey shots, prayer circles, and unplugging from social media.
• Why “Vanilla” is her favorite song to perform — a moment of collective healing on stage.

00:28:00) Songs That Heal: The Butterfly Project, My Mother Lies, and More

• Inspired by a letter about self-harm, “The Butterfly Project” reminds listeners their pain impacts those who love them.
• “My Mother Lies” explores how negative self-talk is passed down through generations.
• Avery’s hope is that these songs help fans find their voice, their healing, and their community.

This episode was Filmed at the Thompson Nashville. 

Thanks for the support from our partners, including: 

BetterHelp: Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/thebigsilence and enjoy a special discount on your first month.If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Guest Info & Resources:

• Follow Avery Anna on TikTok and Instagram
• Listen to "Danny Don’t"
• Watch the Let Go Letters Album Trailer
• Pre-Order Let Go Letters
• On tour now with Brad Paisley and Luke Bryan

Connect with The Big Silence Community

• Order: The Big Silence Memoir audiobook
• Shop The Big Silence Merch
• Subscribe on YouTube
• Donate to The Big Silence Foundation

Mentioned in this episode:

Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit betterhelp.com/thebigsilence and enjoy a special discount on your first month.

If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered.