On this episode of Meet Me in Music, host Neil Salsich sits down with St. Louis artist Mattie Schell for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about creativity, growth, and what it really means to live life as a working musician.

Mattie shares her journey from small-town roots and family jam sessions to performing on stages alongside some of the most respected musicians in the industry. She opens up about finding her identity as an artist, building confidence over time, and learning how to stay grounded in a career that often demands constant productivity and comparison.

The conversation dives into the realities of the modern music industry—from touring and recording to navigating streaming, expectations, and the pressure to “make it.” Mattie also reflects on her evolution as both a singer and songwriter, including her recent recording sessions in California and the story behind her song “No Stone.”

They also explore the unique energy of the St. Louis music scene, the importance of storytelling through music, and how place and upbringing continue to shape her sound.

More than just a conversation about music, this episode is about finding your rhythm, trusting your path, and redefining success as an artist.

They discuss:
 - A day in the life of a working musician
 - Letting go of productivity guilt
 - Performing with confidence and staying present on stage
 - Early influences: family, bluegrass, and musical theater
 - Finding her path from college back to music
 - Growth as an artist over time
 - Recording in California with legendary musicians
 - The story behind “No Stone”
 - The realities of streaming and the modern music industry
 - What it means to be a St. Louis artist

🎙 New episodes of Meet Me in Music every other Friday

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This episode is brought to you by our amazing sponsors — Swade Dispensary, Brick City Yoga, and Kuva Coffee.

On the very first episode of Meet Me in Music, host Neil Salsich sits down with acclaimed St. Louis artist Brian Owens for a powerful conversation about performance, purpose, and the legacy of music in the city.

Brian shares how he approaches the stage—not as something to control, but as a shared experience with the audience. From overcoming nerves to learning how to truly connect in the moment, he breaks down the mindset that has shaped his career and made him one of the most respected performers in the region.

The conversation expands into the deeper story of St. Louis music—what defines its sound, why so many influential artists come from the city, and how its cultural “gumbo” of gospel, blues, jazz, and classical traditions continues to shape music today.

They also reflect on unforgettable career moments, from recording with legendary musicians to building creative communities, and discuss what it means to be a “bridge” for the next generation of artists.

More than just a conversation about music, this episode explores identity, collaboration, and the responsibility artists have to carry culture forward.

They discuss:

 - Managing nerves and building confidence on stage
 - The difference between “working” a crowd vs. working with them
 - What defines the St. Louis sound
 - The city’s influence on global music culture
 - Mentorship, collaboration, and creative community
 - Why being a “bridge” matters for the next generation

🎙 New episodes of Meet Me in Music every other Friday

🔗 CONNECT WITH STL BUCKET LIST:
Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/stlbucketlist/?utm_source=Instagram
Website ▶ stlbucketlist.com

🤝 WORK WITH STL BUCKET LIST
Interested in partnering or sponsoring an episode?
Email ▶ [email protected]
Website ▶ https://www.bucketlistcreative.com/about-us

This episode is brought to you by our amazing sponsors — Swade Dispensary, Brick City Yoga, and Kuva Coffee.