On Episode 5 of Series 2, I am joined by Sam Fryer of Gently Tender – a couple of weeks after the release of EP (or is it an album?) This Once Was Fields. We discuss recovering from the trauma of one band breakup by using your next band to instil positivity, the benefits of walking, cricket, and meditation, the meaning behind many lyrics, and our shared experience of late ADHD diagnosis and realising what helps to prevent it turning you into an anxious puddle.

If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website, or follow me on Instagram. And if you can leave a nice review wherever you get your podcasts that will really help the algorithm to find me, but that’s all the begging I’ll do for now.

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On Episode 4 of Series 2, I am joined by Quincey May Brown - a couple of weeks before the release of her 2nd album Careful, Pockets. We discuss her headspace around album release date, the meanings behind her lyrics, masking mental health challenges, and much more. Quincey also discusses her relentless creativity (my words, not hers) and I point out something about her songs that she hadn't previously considered herself.

If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website, or follow me on Instagram or Bluesky. And if you can leave a nice review wherever you get your podcasts that will really help the algorithm to find me, but that’s all the begging I’ll do for now.

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In this insightful interview, musician Dominie Hooper talks to me about the journey of creating her debut album, the emotional challenges of the music industry, and how her music serves as a reflection of her mental health journey. She talks about the joy of creativity, the release of anger through music, and learning to appreciate the different ways in which you can measure success in your music career.

She also listens to me gush about how much I love her debut album - which I really do. Give it a listen if you haven't, and don't miss out on this chat. It's a cracker.

If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website, or follow me on Instagram or Bluesky. I'd also really appreciate any reviews you can leave wherever you listen to podcasts, but that's all the begging I'll do for now.

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As Series 2 of Mental Notes continues, Tara Gabriella Engelhardt – also known as Brain Leak – talks to me about her recent music. We dive into some of her lyrics, exploring how they relate to mental health – with a particular focus on how songs and songwriting helped her overcome addiction, make sense of her mind, and be open.

Throughout the episode, we discuss the many ways that music helps good mental health, the things Tara does to look after herself, joinery, and Blink 182. 

If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website, or follow me on Instagram or Bluesky.

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As Series 2 of Mental Notes kicks off, Katie Beth Young - also known as Tenderness - talks to me about her debut solo album True. We take a deep dive into some of her lyrics, exploring how they relate to mental health - with a particular focus on how songs and songwriting helped Katie to overcome grief, make sense of past relationships, and investigate her own way of thinking.

Throughout the episode, we discuss the many ways that music both helps and hinders good mental health, the things Katie wishes she could tell her younger self, and music by other artists that resonate with her own mental health experiences. Also, my podcasting app refuses to let Katie tell me where she lives,

If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website, or follow me on Instagram or Bluesky.

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In the sixth and final episode of Series 1, fran speak to Holysseus Fly about the intricate relationship between music and mental health. Holly shares her journey as an artist, the pressures of releasing music, and the healing power of creating art from personal experiences. They discuss the importance of honesty in songwriting and how vulnerability can foster deeper connections with listeners. Holly reflects on her experiences with breast cancer and how it has influenced her music, emphasizing the significance of balancing life and art.

As always, Fran asks questions he hopes his guest won't hate and a bloody good conversation is borne from his ramblings. If you enjoy this episode, or any of series one, Fran would appreciate a follow on social media (mental_notes_podcast on Instagram and Bluesky) and a nice review on your podcast. Also, tell your mates about the series - and that person you sometimes sit next to on the bus. Anyone, really - tell anyone.

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In the fourth episode of the Mental Notes Podcast, Fran Slater speaks with musician Dan Astles about his album 'Soundtrack for the 21 Bus Home,' which explores themes of mental health, family, and hope. Dan shares how a mixtape from his late uncle inspired his music and the importance of open conversations about mental health. He discusses his community engagement through songwriting workshops and the role of music in coping with life's challenges. Fran and Dan connect over a shared teenage infatuation with tortured artists, one that Fran doesn't admit he still hasn't quite shaken now, as his 42nd birthday approaches.

Follow Fran on Instagram @Mental_Notes_Podcast or Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social to keep in touch with podcast updates and to see Fran try and navigate how the fuck to use social media.

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In Episode 3 Benedict Benjamin and Fran explore the intersection of mental health and music, discussing personal experiences, the challenges of balancing family life with creativity, and the therapeutic nature of songwriting. They delve into the emotional depth of music, highlighting how storytelling in lyrics can resonate with listeners and provide solace during tough times. Ben shares his experiences with mental health, the cathartic process of writing songs, and the unique struggles of navigating nursery drop-offs with his kids. They even talk about drawing spiderman, sewagey lakes, and how not to pass your fear of dogs onto your children.

Note: due to some minor recording issues, it does sound like we were talking over each other on occasion in this episode. I hope that doesn't get in the way of you enjoying another fascinating chat.

Find me on Instagram @mental_notes_podcast and on Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social.

If you enjoy the episode, please do subscribe to the podcast and leave me a lovely rating or review wherever you get your podcasts.

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In Episode Two of the Mental Notes podcast, host Fran engages with Canadian musician Bria Salmena, discussing the intersection of music and mental health. Bria shares her journey as an artist, the vulnerability of releasing original music, and the importance of open conversations about mental health. They explore the emotional weight of lyrics, the role of music in coping with life's challenges, the significance of support systems, and why Bria's album is called Big Dog and not Kitty-Kat Butterfly.

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and find Fran/Mental Notes on Instagram at @mental_notes_podcast and Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social.

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