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LESSON WITH YOU 

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ABOUT THIS EPISODE

Opera is a dramatic reflection of love and relationships.

Valentine's Day can be celebrated in various ways, including self-love.

Toxic relationships in opera mirror real-life dynamics.

Carmen and Don Jose's relationship highlights obsession disguised as love.

Tosca and Cavaradossi's love is complicated by political turmoil.

Butterfly and Pinkerton's relationship showcases colonial delusion.

Self-love is crucial for artists and individuals alike.

Recognizing and celebrating small wins is important.

Buying your own flowers is a form of self-care.

Opera tells the truth about love and relationships loudly.

Host Bri Cooper

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• A nuanced discussion on Black History Month: celebrating identity year-round
• Marian Anderson’s historic concert and its ongoing legacy of racial segregation
• The love-hate relationship with Porgy and Bess among Black singers
• The disparities in how Black performers are treated and typecast in opera
• Personal stories of navigating privilege, entitlement, and representation
• The significance of Black composers and diversifying opera programming
• Reflections on roles, racial stereotypes, and expanding narratives in performance
• Supportive messages on community, connection, and small acts of kindness

Host Bri Cooper

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Opera is not dying; it's just gated and exclusive.

Setting personal goals is essential for growth and success.

Opera should be accessible to everyone, not just the elite.

Community engagement is vital for the survival of the arts.

Fashion and storytelling play a significant role in the opera experience.

Breaking down barriers can make opera more inviting.

The arts provide a space for reflection and detachment from reality.

Inclusivity in opera can lead to a thriving cultural scene.

Artists are shifting the culture by bringing opera to new spaces.

Opera is evolving and waiting for the right energy and audience.

Host Bri Cooper

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Takeaways

It's important for artists to reflect on their wins.

Rest is essential for vocal health and performance.

Saying no is a crucial skill for artists.

Every yes is a withdrawal from your energy bank.

You don't have to justify your boundaries.

Creating a sustainable singing life honors your humanity.

Your energy is sacred and should be protected.

Resting does not make you less committed.

Sustainability in your career can look different for everyone.

Protecting your energy is an act of artistic integrity.

Host Bri Cooper

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Takeaways

The new year is a time for reflection and reset.

Having a theme helps in organizing thoughts and actions.

Being unapologetic can boost self-confidence.

Artists should not accept unpaid gigs that undermine their value.

Gratitude should not come at the cost of personal well-being.

Setting boundaries is essential for a sustainable career in the arts.

Exposure does not pay the bills or support a career.

It's important to communicate needs clearly in professional settings.

The right opportunities will come when you value yourself.

Creating a 'not doing that' list can help prioritize artistic integrity.

Host Bri Cooper

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takeaways

• Reflect on your achievements and setbacks regularly.
• Setbacks can be valuable lessons for growth.
• Prepare for the new year with a repertoire refresh.
• Engage with opera by understanding its history and context.
• Opera etiquette enhances the experience for everyone.
• Support local artists and productions in your community.
• Be open to new experiences in the arts.
• Social media can be a tool for supporting artists.
• Financial support isn't the only way to help the arts.
• Community and connection are vital in the arts ecosystem.

Host Bri Cooper

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Takeaways

• Artists deserve support both on and off the stage.
• Reflecting on achievements fosters growth and new opportunities.
• Navigating family conversations can be challenging for artists.
• It's okay to choose solitude during the holidays for peace.
• Working during the holidays can be isolating but fulfilling.
• Setting boundaries is essential for personal energy management.
• Humorous misconceptions about opera singers are common.
• Responding to questions about your career can be done gracefully.
• You don't owe anyone a detailed explanation of your career.
• Reclaiming December as a time for self-care is important.

Host Bri Cooper

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SHOW NOTES

• It's essential to acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small.
• December can be a time of fatigue for performing artists.
• Setbacks are learning opportunities, not failures.
• Protect your mental space during emotionally charged times.
• Momentum in December is about direction, not speed.
• Let go of the pressure to complete everything before January.
• Self-care is crucial for maintaining creativity and energy.
• Reflecting on the year can help set intentions for the next.
• Balancing a nine-to-five job with performing arts is challenging but possible.
• Careers are built over time, not in short bursts.

Host Bri Cooper

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The Businesswoman Hustle 

Lessons from Working Full-Time 

Performances of the Year

 Cozy Reflections & Takeaways 

Host Bri Cooper

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•  Why journaling matters for performers beyond the stage

•  Solo Spark Sessions: bite-sized prompts to reignite your artistry

•  Highlights from Bri’s ebook on creative rituals

•  Cozy journaling tips: candles, playlists, and intentional reflection

•  Mention of Stay Creative, Stay Cozy Journaling Kits + curated Spotify playlist

•  For ad placements or collaborations: [email protected]

Host Bri Cooper

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