Discover the captivating story of Canadian pianist and composer Martin Mayer as he opens up about the human side of being an artist. In this intimate conversation, I welcome Mayer to my podcast, delving into the realities behind the glamour of the music industry.

From the anxiety of performing to the mental health struggles artists face, Mayer candidly discusses the unseen aspects of life as a professional musician.

You will be inspired by Mayer's resilience and the powerful role music has played in his personal growth and healing.

Throughout the episode, Mayer shares poignant stories, including the creation of his emotive composition "Heart of an Angel," written in memory of his mother. I'm honoured to provide a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of a global superstar, I am certain it will leave a lasting impact on all who listen to this conversation.

Ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast, register your interest here: https://forms.gle/XLyXrwzt9jZ5S4Hp6

🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook right here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

🎙️ For collaborations and other inquiries, please go to: https://livingonthebside.com/contact-us/

In this episode, I’m joined by the talented singer-songwriter Melissa James as we explore how music and nature can unlock your creative voice and spark personal transformation. Melissa shares her inspiring journey of overcoming self-doubt and societal expectations to fully embrace her passion for music.

We delve into her struggles with finding her voice—both literally and figuratively—and the pivotal role that connecting with the natural world played in her creative awakening. Melissa also opens up about her impactful "Live Again" project, which uses music to foster mental health awareness and empower individuals to shine.

Whether you’re an aspiring artist or someone seeking to connect with your inner voice, Melissa offers actionable tips on incorporating music and self-expression into your life. From embracing silence and reflection to simply creating sound, her advice will inspire you to embark on your own creative journey.

Tune in to discover the transformative power of music and how it can help you reconnect with yourself. This conversation is packed with inspiration, practical wisdom, and heart. Don’t miss it!

⏰ Timecodes (approx.)⏰

0:00:00 Introduction of Melissa James and her music

0:01:15 Melissa discusses the similarities in weather between Melbourne and London

0:03:01 Melissa shares her early musical journey and suppression of her singing

0:08:38 Melissa's transition to Paris and increased musical pursuits

0:14:18 Melissa's long journey of accepting herself as a singer

0:19:34 Melissa encourages people to experiment with making simple sounds

0:22:49 Melissa's "Live Again" project and its impact

0:32:11 The importance of connecting with nature and finding one's voice

0:41:36 Melissa's practical tips for starting a singing/expression practice

0:44:12 Closing thoughts and encouragement for listeners

About Melissa:

Intuition guided Melissa’s creative decision of recording her second album - “Stripped Back” - in a pared down setting. Her naked voice intimately placed against the backdrop of just the guitar played by Tom Gamble or the piano played by Arthur Lea. All this gave space for her own voice and plight to clearly emerge. Later, rising from this understanding was the idea of Sing for Sane – a Big Sing and mental health initiative in which Melissa would extend invitations to anyone who wanted to sing with her to come and do just that. People from all walks of life would stand alongside her in public spaces, and during her concert performances, to sing on stage.

Melissa captures the audience with her own set intention which is to emit love through her music. This is evident through the emotion in her voice and her songs which see rootsy folk-blues traverse jazz and gospel tones.

Follow Melissa on her social media channels:

http://melissa-james.com

@MelissaJamesUK - Facebook / Instagram

As the year comes to a close, I'm inviting you to join me on a reflective journey through 2024 - but with a musical twist. In this special solo episode, I'll be sharing a 4-song challenge that invites you to look back on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead.

From the hopes and dreams that kicked off 2024, to the realities and challenges I faced, I'll be using special selected songs to unpack my personal experiences. I'll delve into the lessons I've learned about resilience, self-worth, and the importance of finding my "home" - both literally and figuratively.

By the end of this episode, I hope you'll be inspired to try the 4-song review challenge yourself, using music as a tool for reflection and growth. Prepare to laugh, cry, and most importantly, feel empowered as you prepare to embrace the new year.

Don't miss this personal and heartfelt look back on 2024 - it just might be the perfect way to close out the year and step into 2025 with clarity and confidence.

Read about more inspiring, powerful podcast guest stories in my FREE download ➡️ https://bit.ly/8TopPodcastStories

⏰ Timecodes (approx.)⏰

0:00:00 - Introduction to the episode

0:02:00 - I discuss the first song, "The Best Is Yet to Come" by Hinder, representing my envisioned year of 2024 and my hopes for it

0:05:00 - I transition to the second song, "Numb" by Linkin Park, representing the reality of my difficult year filled with emotional darkness and personal struggles

0:09:55 – I introduce the third song, "Abyss" by Jen from BTS, and the lessons I’ve learned about my own strength, resilience and self-worth

0:15:00 – It is time for the fourth song, "Home Sweet Home" by G-Dragon, as my intention song for the first 6 months of 2025, representing my goal of reconnecting with myself and rebuilding a positive foundation

0:19:09 - Conclusion the episode by summarizing the 4-song challenge and inviting listeners to participate and share their reflections

Ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast, register your interest here: https://forms.gle/XLyXrwzt9jZ5S4Hp6

🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook right here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

🎙️ For collaborations and other inquiries, please go to: https://livingonthebside.com/contact-us/

In this episode, I want to dive into why we sometimes need to be our own heroes and how music plays a huge role in that journey.

Welcome to episode 90—can you believe we’ve made it this far? I’m so grateful you’re here with me today!

I’ll be reflecting on Mariah Carey’s powerful song "Hero," which perfectly captures the essence of finding strength within us. If you’ve been following my journey, you know it’s been a rollercoaster ride with plenty of ups and downs, and lately, I’ve been reminded that I need to show up for myself more than ever.

I’ll share my thoughts on feeling alone during tough times and how music can be that comforting anchor that helps us navigate through life’s challenges. I’ll also talk about my exciting new venture into coaching, which I believe will bring a fresh perspective to my podcast.

So, grab your headphones and get ready for a heartfelt conversation about self-reflection, empowerment, and the magic of music. Let’s explore how we can all step into our own hero roles, even when the going gets tough. Thanks for joining me on this journey, and I can’t wait to share more with you!

=====================

Here are ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

=====================

🎙️ For support or inquiries, please go to: https://livingonthebside.com/contact-us/

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast, register your interest here: https://forms.gle/XLyXrwzt9jZ5S4Hp6

🎙️ Wellbeing through Music Coaching – All the information you need: https://livingonthebside.com/work-with-me/

=====================

Connect with me!

=====================

Website: ➡️www.livingonthebside.com

FB page ➡️ www.facebook.com/livingonthebside

IG➡️ www.instagram.com/livingonthebside/

FB Group ➡️ www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00:00 - I introduce the Living on the B Side podcast and the theme of being your own hero

0:00:07 - I discuss how Mariah Carey's song "Hero" has resonated with me and inspired me to be my own hero

0:00:30 – I share how I have been experiencing ups and downs in my life and how I need to step up and be my own hero

0:02:00 - I reflect on how music, especially Mariah Carey's "Hero", has helped me with self-reflection and finding my inner strength

0:05:00 – I discuss how I am stepping into a new coaching role to support you, my listeners, and help you use music for personal growth

0:10:22 - I conclude the episode by encouraging you to embrace your inner hero and use music as a tool for self-discovery and empowerment

About this podcast:

Living on the B Side is a music podcast that showcases the power of music through people sharing their experiences with music and its impact in their lives. Your host B(irgit) also shares information and tips around how to integrate music as a tool for self-reflection.

In this episode of The Living on the B Side podcast, musician Kristie Jaques shares her inspiring story of living with chronic lung illness while pursuing her passion for songwriting and performing.

Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs

She opens up to host Birgit Livesey about rediscovering her love of music during the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating the daily challenges of pulmonary sarcoidosis.

Despite her diagnosis, Kristie remains determined to follow her dreams, finding strength and solace in writing and recording original songs. Through our uplifting conversation, we discuss overcoming health obstacles, the importance of community support, and how facing challenges can uncover inner resilience and fuel creativity.

For those dealing with chronic illness or seeking motivation, this podcast provides an insightful look at one artist’s determination to pursue her musical dreams despite health roadblocks.

I am sure you will be encouraged by Kristie's story of resilience and perseverance.

=====================

Subscribe and listen to the Living on the B Side Podcast HERE:

=====================

👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livingonthebside

👉 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/living-on-the-b-side/id1548622108

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ajiDp7FzS6FbWn3odD2Ri

=====================

Here are ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

=====================

🎙️ For support or inquiries, please go to: https://livingonthebside.com/contact-us/

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast, register your interest here: https://forms.gle/XLyXrwzt9jZ5S4Hp6

🎙️ Coaching: More details on how to use music for self-reflection & more: https://livingonthebside.com/work-with-me/

🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook right here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

=====================

Connect with me!

=====================

Website: ➡️www.livingonthebside.com

FB page ➡️ www.facebook.com/livingonthebside

IG➡️ www.instagram.com/livingonthebside/

FB Group ➡️ www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00 - 5:00: Introduction and Christy's background and love of music

5:00 - 10:00: Christy shares how she stepped away from music for 30 years and rediscovered it during the pandemic

10:00 - 15:00: Christy discusses being diagnosed with pulmonary sarcoidosis in 2009 and how her health has progressed

15:00 - 20:00: Overcoming embarrassment of oxygen use and depression through a return to music

20:00 - 25:00: Christy's goals of improving her health for a potential lung transplant and hopes to perform live

25:00 - 30:00: Discussion on gratitude, inspirational songs, and overcoming challenges through a love of music

=====================

#LivingontheBSide #powerofmusic #musicpodcast

=====================

About this podcast:

Living on the B Side is a music podcast that showcases the power of music through people sharing their experiences with music and its impact in their lives. Your host B(irgit) also shares information and tips around how to integrate music as a tool for self-reflection.

On this episode of The Living on the B Side podcast, I interview Willow, an immersive sound experience producer and dedicated sound healing practitioner. Willow shares her profound 10-year journey of self-discovery that led her to this work.

Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs

She recounts a traumatic near-death experience at age 22 that sparked a major life change. She realized she needed to face her fears and pursue her artistic dreams. Willow then discovered the transformative power of sound healing and began facilitating sessions using singing bowls, gongs, and other instruments.

Willow discusses how sound healing aims to relax the mind and body through unique sound waves and also reflects on how nature sounds like ocean waves or forests can evoke deep feelings of safety, relaxation and inspiration.

We consider the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in the arts, explore how sharing the whole creative process, not just the highlights, can help others facing struggles in their journey.

Through Willow's incredible story and insights, this episode examines the transformational power of sound healing and music to overcome challenges and pursue our passions.

=====================

Subscribe and listen to the Living on the B Side Podcast HERE:

=====================

👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livingonthebside

👉 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/living-on-the-b-side/id1548622108

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ajiDp7FzS6FbWn3odD2Ri

=====================

Here are ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

=====================

🎙️ For support or inquiries, please go to: https://livingonthebside.com/contact-us/

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast, register your interest here: https://forms.gle/XLyXrwzt9jZ5S4Hp6

🎙️ Email Coaching: sign up to be the first to be notified when it commences: https://livingonthebside.com/work-with-me/

🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook right here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

=====================

Connect with me!

=====================

Website: ➡️www.livingonthebside.com

FB page ➡️ www.facebook.com/livingonthebside

IG➡️ www.instagram.com/livingonthebside/

FB Group ➡️ www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:03:40 - Willow shares her near-death experience story

0:10:38 - Willow describes how she got into sound healing

0:16:57 - Willow explains what a sound healing session is like

0:20:48 - Willow and Birgit discuss the importance of music

0:29:59 - Birgit asks about Willow's favorite song

0:34:33 - They discuss authenticity and vulnerability in social media

0:36:56 - Birgit asks what sound describes Willow's life

=====================

#LivingontheBSide #powerofmusic #musicpodcast

=====================

About this podcast:

Living on the B Side is a music podcast that showcases the power of music through people sharing their experiences with music and its impact in their lives. Your host B(irgit) also shares information and tips around how to integrate music as a tool for self-reflection.

This time on the podcast, I sit down for a conversation with Australian comedian Matt Young about the connection between his passions for music and comedy.

Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs

We chat about Matt's formative teenage years attending underground live shows in small venues across Tasmania, and how those experiences shaped his creative development and inspired his approach to his own comedy performances, and beyond.

Matt reflects on how certain bands and musicians he discovered deeply resonated with him during that time. He also opens up about the emotional and social benefits he's gotten from music throughout his life. We explore the similarities between live music and comedy performances, especially the importance of audience interaction and connection.

We then touch on how the pandemic impacted both industries but Matt also expresses optimism for their recovery. The conversation provides insight into Matt's journey and why he believes supporting live local acts remains so vital.

I know that music lovers and comedy fans alike will enjoy this insightful discussion on finding inspiration and building community through creative expression.

=====================

Subscribe

=====================

 👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livingonthebside

👉 Apple:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ajiDp7FzS6FbWn3odD2Ri

=====================

Here are

=====================

🎙️ For support or inquiries, please go to: https://livingonthebside.com/contact-us/

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast, register your interest here: https://forms.gle/XLyXrwzt9jZ5S4Hp6

🎙️ Email Coaching: sign up to be the first to be notified when it commences: 

🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook right here:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

Connect with me!

=====================

Website: ➡️www.livingonthebside.com

FB page ➡️ www.facebook.com/livingonthebside

IG➡️ www.instagram.com/livingonthebside/

FB Group ➡️ www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:01:25 - I introduce Matt to the show

0:04:22 - Matt shares a memorable experience seeing a band in Hobart in 2009

0:10:07 - We discuss our teenage years exploring music scenes

0:13:19 - we discuss the pandemic's impact on live performances and their recovery

0:16:27 - I ask how Matt thinks music can be beneficial

0:20:12 - Matt shares his favorite song "Spooky, Scary" by Spraynard" and why it resonates with him

0:25:38 - we discuss the Australian tradition of drinking beer from a shoe

0:30:00 - Matt encourages listeners to support live comedy and shares upcoming shows

=====================

#LivingontheBSide #powerofmusic #musicpodcast

=====================

About this show:

Living on the B Side is a music podcast that showcases the power of music through people sharing their experiences with music and its impact in their lives. Your host B(irgit) also shares information and tips around how to integrate music as a tool for self-reflection.

Join me for a nostalgic trip back to the 90s as I share a memorable weekend in London with my mom…and the Spice Girls!

Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs

It's 1997, and my mum and I are back in London. Back in the city we love and have already created many wonderful memories in.

This time the Spice Girls’ song ‘Spice up your life’ is the song that has stuck with me and made this simple weekend one that left an even more lasting impression on me.

Music is such an incredible force, one that allows us to create lasting memories and emotional connections. In this episode, I want to share one of those memories with you and show you how music can enhance our experiences and relationships.

 =====================

Subscribe and listen to the Living on the B Side Podcast HERE:

=====================

 👉 YouTube:

👉 Apple:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ajiDp7FzS6FbWn3odD2Ri

 =====================

Here are ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

=====================

🎙️ For support or inquiries, please go to:

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast, register your interest here: https://forms.gle/XLyXrwzt9jZ5S4Hp6

🎙️ Wellbeing through Music Coaching: sign up to be the first to be notified when it commences:  https://livingonthebside.com/work-with-me/

 =====================

Connect with me!

=====================

Website: ➡️www.livingonthebside.com

FB page ➡️ www.facebook.com/livingonthebside

IG➡️ www.instagram.com/livingonthebside/

FB Group ➡️ www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00:00 - Introduction

0:01:23 - I share a memory of 1997 London trip with my mother

0:04:56 - I recall the Spice Girls and their music in the 90s

0:06:11 - Description of simple weekend in London with my mother

0:09:53 - How music can create memories and experiences

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#LivingontheBSide #powerofmusic #musicpodcast

=====================

 About this video:

Living on the B Side is a music podcast that showcases the power of music through people sharing their experiences with music and its impact in their lives. Your host B(irgit) also shares information and tips around how to integrate music as a tool for self-reflection.

In this episode, indie musician Alex B joins me to discuss her creative process on her upcoming EP, and the role of music in self-expression.

Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs

 We explore how Alex uses songwriting to work through emotions like grief and loss, reflecting the 5 stages in her album.

 Alex opens up about overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome as an artist, and how she draws inspiration across genres from jazz to folk. We talk about the therapeutic benefits of music, whether listening or creating, and how a good song can provide answers when you listen to your inner voice.

Alex shares her musical journey and the importance of live performances to her. She delivers an uplifting message about embracing your creativity through music, taking lessons, and supporting indie artists. Tune in for an inspiring chat about music, emotions, creativity, and finding your voice.

Watch This Next: https://youtu.be/ScFW5YfcssY?si=f1l6ZNxWaddy6cBI

 =====================

Subscribe and listen to the Living on the B Side Podcast HERE:

=====================

 👉 YouTube:

👉 Apple:

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ajiDp7FzS6FbWn3odD2Ri

 =====================

Here are ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

=====================

🎙️ For support or inquiries, please go to:

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast,

🎙️ Email Coaching: sign up to be the first to

🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook right

=====================

Connect with me!

=====================

Website: ➡️www.livingonthebside.com

FB page ➡️ www.facebook.com/livingonthebside

IG➡️ www.instagram.com/livingonthebside/

FB Group ➡️ www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

Around 2:22 mark - Alex B shared about her upcoming album "Unstruck Sound" which explores the stages of grief through its songs.

Around 17:47  - They discussed Alex's musical influences and favorite genres - jazz, R&B and folk

around 24:19 - Alex talked about the therapeutic nature of music, both in listening and creating/performing around 26:01 - Birgit encouraged listeners to support indie artists like Alex and explore making music themselves

=====================

#LivingontheBSide #powerofmusic #musicpodcast

=====================

About this podcast:

Living on the B Side is a music podcast that showcases the power of music through people sharing their experiences with music and its impact in their lives. Your host B(irgit) also shares information and tips around how to integrate music as a tool for self-reflection.

Today, I explore the timeless message of TLC's "Unpretty." Reflecting on my own struggles with self-image, I delve into the societal pressures women face and the quest for self-acceptance in today's image-driven culture.

🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

Through introspection, I navigate the complexities of self-doubt and the impact of social media on self-worth.

I also share my own journey towards self-compassion and encourage listeners to embrace their inherent beauty. With a message of hope and solidarity, she highlights the transformative power of music in fostering healing and empowerment.

=====================

Subscribe and listen to the Living on the B Side Podcast HERE:

=====================

👉 YouTube: 

👉 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/living-on-the-b-side/id1548622108

👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ajiDp7FzS6FbWn3odD2Ri

=====================

Here are ways to connect and work with me at Living on the B Side:

=====================

🎙️ Email Coaching: sign up to be the first to

🎙️ For support or inquiries, please go to:

🎙️ For becoming a possible guest on my podcast,

🎙️Download my FREE Music Melody Mood Map ➡️ https://bit.ly/MusicandCoaching

=====================

Connect with me!

=====================

FB Group ➡️ www.facebook.com/groups/livingonbside

FB page ➡️ www.facebook.com/livingonthebside

IG➡️ www.instagram.com/livingonthebside/

Website: ➡️www.livingonthebside.com

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00:00 – Introduction to TLC's "Unpretty" song and its impact on self-esteem, beauty standards, and gender roles.

0:06:11 - Societal pressure on women's beauty and self-esteem, including my own personal struggles

0:11:45 - Self-esteem and body image in women, particularly in midlife.

=====================

#LivingontheBSide #powerofmusic #musicpodcast

=====================

About this podcast:

Living on the B Side is a music podcast that showcases the power of music through people sharing their experiences with music and its impact in their lives. Your host B(irgit) also shares information and tips around how to integrate music as a tool for self-reflection.