The Evolution and Future of Sound Healing: A Panel Discussion

With guests Lana Ryder, Rian McGonigal, Rich Goodhart. Hosted by Natalie Brown.

Lana Ryder has been sharing the healing power of sound, voice, and music for fifty years, beginning with her use of voice as a healing instrument in music ministry. After 25 years in the allopathic medical field, she transitioned full-time into holistic practice in 1995. Known widely as a sound therapy educator, mentor—affectionately called “Sound Mama”—and practitioner, Lana continues her studies with globally renowned masters of sound. She has developed innovative approaches to working with sound in energy healing and bodywork, including ReikiSound, ReikiVoice, Sonic Massage, and Soundwise Voice, as well as foundational training programs, manuals, and curriculum. She is the founding director and senior instructor of Soundwise School of Harmonic Therapy in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

https://soundwisehealth.com/

https://www.instagram.com/soundwise_woman

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057499117700

Rian McGonigal is a pioneer in Acoustic Sound Therapy and healing, active since the late 1980s. Twice a cancer survivor, he developed and directed therapeutic sound programs at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, the Simonton Cancer & Counseling Center, and the Philosophical Research Society. His work has been featured nationally on FOX News and internationally on CNN.

A lifelong musician, Rian trained in classical guitar in Europe and later explored rock, drumming, crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, and the Aboriginal didgeridoo. He has created innovative sound therapy programs for hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and youth programs, integrating a wide range of instruments and therapeutic techniques.

Rian has trained thousands of practitioners and advised holistic medical professionals on incorporating sound therapy into their practices, blending ancient traditions with modern healing approaches.

https://www.mariamcgonigal.com/sound-color-certification

Rich Goodhart is an internationally recognized world music multi-instrumentalist, composer, and Master Shamanic Sound Healing practitioner. He has composed and produced eight albums of progressive world music, including Forest River Pathway and the acclaimed Never Give a Sword to a Man Who Can’t Dance, and is the author of two books, including The Sound Inside The Sound.

Over the past 35 years, Rich has performed and collaborated with renowned musicians, writers, and dancers, including Allen Ginsberg, Jon Anderson, Deepak Chopra, Krishna Das, and Bill T. Jones. He plays a wide array of instruments—from African and Middle Eastern hand drums to Native American flute, Himalayan bowls, gongs, and voice—and blends shamanic sound healing, meditation, Qigong, and Tai Chi in his work.

Rich has also taught extensively at the Omega Institute, Kripalu Center, and other venues, leading immersive workshops in shamanic sound, transformational sound practices, and energy work. His work bridges tradition and innovation, offering transformative experiences through sound.

http://www.richgoodhart.com

https://richgoodhart.bandcamp.com/

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA

Richard Cooke is a Grammy Award–winning musician, instrument designer, and innovator, best known as the founder of Freenotes Company (1991). Early in his musical life, he played flute and explored improvisation and intuitive approaches to sound, which shaped his belief that anyone can make beautiful music. A pivotal moment came during a retreat with Paul Winter’s consort, which inspired him to focus on creating instruments and experiences that make music accessible to all.

Cooke developed Freenotes instruments based on the principle “Beautiful Music Made Simple”—intuitively tuned percussion and melodic instruments that allow anyone to play without fear of wrong notes. His work expanded into Freenotes Harmony Park, bringing outdoor, playable sound installations to parks, schools, and public spaces, creating communal experiences where music fosters connection and joy. He also contributed to the restoration and recreation of instruments by Lou Harrison, preserving and extending the life of these unique creations.

Today, Richard continues to design and consult on instruments, installations, and sound-spaces that encourage play, healing, and community engagement. Guided by the philosophy that sound can unite, transform, and inspire, he invites people of all ages and backgrounds to explore the joy of making music together.

Website: https://freenotes.life/

TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04VbxnzUwes

CD: https://soundcloud.com/search?q=freenotes%20gamelan

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA

In this bonus episode, Natalie Brown explores some of the most compelling recent research in sound healing. From tuning forks and Tibetan singing bowls to frequency-specific interventions and cellular-level vibration, these studies highlight the scientific insights behind sound, frequency, and vibration for mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown

Featured Studies & Links:

1. Triple OM Clinical Study Using Tuning Fork Sound Healing

https://www.soundtravels.co.uk/a-Triple_OM_Clinical_Study_using_Tuning_Fork_Sound_Healing-3807.aspx

2. Differential Effects of Sound Interventions Tuned to 432 Hz or 443 Hz on Cardiovascular Parameters in Cancer Patients

https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-025-04758-5

3. The Implications of Vibration and Sound Therapy in Modern Medicine

https://www.scholarlyreview.org/article/124889.pdf

4. Effects of Tibetan Singing Bowl Intervention on Psychological and Physiological Outcomes

https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/13/16/2002

5. Exploring the Healing Power of Singing Bowls

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37532602/

6. Vibratory Frequencies of Cells in Healthy and Disease States

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359600326_Sound_Therapy_Vibratory_Frequencies_of_Cells_in_Healthy_and_Disease_States

Kimberly Joy Iolana Rieli (Ee-oh-lah-nah Ri-Lee) is a singer, sound healer, and holistic voice practitioner. Founder of Singing For Your Soul, she has helped thousands of people use their voices for deep healing. Her approach is based on feeling safe being seen and heard, and impacts all aspects of life: relationships, work, and health.

With 20 years of experience, Kimberly helps her clients use their voices to heal trauma, enhance well-being, unlock self-expression, and deepen their spiritual connection.

Kimberly offers a variety of transformative experiences both in-person and virtually, including 1:1 coaching, group programs, sound healings, and retreats worldwide.

Kimberly lives in rural Michigan with her husband and their magical feline companions Gandalf the Grey, Arwen, and Moon. She travels internationally as the singer for The Settle Into Stillness Ensemble, and can often be found singing among the trees.

Kimberly’s links:

Free Holistic Voice Class: https://www.singingforyoursoul.com/sign-up-for-free-voice-class/

Website: http://www.singingforyoursoul.com

Singing For Your Wild Soul sacred sisterhood of voice healing + sound healing certification:

https://www.singingforyoursoul.com/singing-for-your-wild-soul-sisterhood/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/singingforyoursoul/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SingingForYourSoul

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA

Gareth Laffely is a licensed sound healing practitioner with the Sound Healing Academy. He grew up just north of Nashville, Tennessee, and now lives in central Maine. Descended from the Mi’kmaq Native American people, Gareth has a passion for using traditional instruments from his culture to make a positive impact in the lives of those around him.

Gareth began his relationship with the Sound Healing Academy in 2021 when he took the Level 1 Sound Healing with Rhythm and Drums program. A year later, he completed his Level 2 training in the 1-2-1 Diploma program. Prior to his training, he spent several years bringing his Native American flutes into hospitals and nursing homes, using music to comfort terminally ill patients and their families. With a deep love for teaching, Gareth has hosted flute and drum workshops across the United States since 2013. He believes music is extremely powerful and can transcend personal limitations.

In addition to his experience with integral sound healing, Gareth is also a recording artist and composer. He has released five CDs, including one recorded with George Lucas’ symphony at Skywalker Ranch, and his music has been licensed by the Discovery Channel, A&E, History Channel, Travel Channel, and PBS. Gareth also reached #2 on the Billboard Music Charts for New Age. He holds a master’s degree in Digital Marketing from East Tennessee State University and is honored to be working as Head of Marketing at the Sound Healing Academy as they change lives around the world.

https://www.garethmusic.com/

Laura Turian is an Angelic Reiki Master, Intuitive Tarot Reader, Crystal Healer, Candle Maker, free spirited Aquarius and proud cat mum to Angelo. She is a Digital Marketing Specialist at The Sound Healing Academy, where she combines her creativity and passion to share the transformative power of sound healing with a global audience.

Through her sacred business, The Journey To Higher Self, Laura offers energetic healing sessions that help people release what no longer serves them and step into their purpose, joy, and authenticity. Drawing on her skills in Angelic Reiki, Tarot Reading, Crystal Healing, and Integral Sound Healing, she guides others through their multidimensional healing journeys — opening hearts, expanding consciousness, and inspiring people to live their most aligned lives.

https://thejourneytohigherself.co.uk/

Sound Healing Academy:

https://www.academyofsoundhealing.com/

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA

Shannon Brown is a visionary mentor, medicine woman, and sacred sound practitioner with over 25 years of international experience guiding personal and collective transformation. As an opera-trained vocalist with a background in documentary film, visual arts, education, and healing, she bridges the worlds of ceremony and strategy with uncommon clarity and compassion.

Rooted in sound healing, shamanic practice, and trauma-informed facilitation, Shannon creates powerful spaces for healing, awakening, and creative expression. She leads global retreats, sacred ceremonies, and immersive training programs that have impacted thousands worldwide.

With a rare ability to move between the boardroom and the ceremonial circle, Shannon supports others in stepping into their gifts with authenticity, purpose, and soul.

https://shannonbrownhealingarts.ca/

Shannon interviews Natalie Brown for the Sacred Sound Summit: https://youtu.be/MVfHRiA-ex4

The Practice of Presence: Sound, Silence & Embodied Listening

Interview and sound meditation with Natalie Brown. Originally aired on June 24, 2025. Hosted by Shannon Brown, Sacred Sounds Summit: Awaken Your Voice. Heal Through Sound. Transform Your Life.

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA

Jonny Lipford is an award‑winning flutist, composer, and educator who has specialized in Native American and world flutes for over two decades. He has amassed dozens of accolades for his work, having written over 200 original songs, released 18 commercial albums, and toured nationally, appearing for audiences of up to 14,000 people.

Not only is Jonny a gifted musician, but he is also an accomplished and highly sought-after instructor, leading thousands of students each year through courses, workshops, lessons, and an exceptional online learning membership through his Horizons Flute School and Store—a thriving hub for flute education, community, and creative exploration.

2025 Horizons Flute School Fall Summit

https://www.horizonsfluteschool.com/pages/summit/

Jonny Lipford performing live in front of 14,000 people

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4N0zPmhDvg

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA

Julia and Maddy offer the Sing to Thrive Method—a mother-daughter collaboration that blends music, meditation, voice science, and energetic healing to help people find freedom, purpose, and joy through their voice.

https://singtothrive.com/

Free monthly global mantra meditation: https://singtothrive.com/global/

Julia Williamson

Julia is the visionary founder of Sing to Thrive, with over 30 years of experience in music, voice work, and energy healing. She draws deeply from her own healing journey—overcoming trauma, performance anxiety, and burnout—and brings a unique approach that blends sound, neuroplasticity, and emotional clearing.

She is a certified practitioner of Past Age Clearing and Healing (PACH), a modality that works with the subconscious to release stored patterns and emotional imprints. Julia founded her Singing and Healing School in 2006 and has since helped thousands reconnect with their voice, confidence, and authentic self. Her mission is to bring singing back into everyday life as a tool for joy, resilience, and transformation.

Maddy Monacelli

Maddy is a holistic vocal coach, singer, and certified PACH practitioner. As Julia’s daughter and creative partner, she grew up immersed in a healing and musical environment and now co-leads Sing to Thrive with her own grounded, heart-centered voice.

Maddy integrates singing, somatic practices, mantra, sound healing, and Past Age Clearing to help people move through fear, self-doubt, and emotional blocks. Her work centers around helping others reclaim their voice as a path to inner confidence, clarity, and healing. She offers workshops, programs, and mentoring with a focus on nervous system regulation, creative expression, and soul-aligned voice work.

Episode of Sing to Thrive podcast with Natalie Brown as guest:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7DMXPLhcnc

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA

In this special bonus episode of Sound Healing News, host Natalie Brown dives into the expanding world of sound healing—from global market trends and industry insights to the latest research and inspiring stories from the field. Discover the numbers behind the movement, explore key trends and get practical tips for growing your sound healing practice. We also highlight recent clinical research on sound frequencies, a groundbreaking immersive exhibition at London’s Barbican Centre, and an exciting update from Monique Mead and the Scottie Sound Bath program at Carnegie Mellon University. Tune in for a powerful glimpse into the evolving landscape of sound—where healing, science, art, and innovation meet.

References:

https://straitsresearch.com/press-release/global-sound-therapy-market-size

https://rollingout.com/2025/03/09/impact-of-sound-frequencies-on-wellbeing

https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/may/21/anyone-fancy-a-subwoofer-massage-the-show-that-shakes-you-senseless

https://www.cmu.edu/news/stories/archives/2025/may/a-massage-for-the-brain-scottie-sound-bath-soothes-the-stress-of-everyday-life

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown

Laila Brady Walzer has spent decades exploring music, sound, and healing, transforming her own life through Sufi-based healing, Qur’anic recitation, and Divine Love. A Muqaddim Mirrabi-Rouhi in the Shadhuliyya Sufi tariqa, she blends deep spiritual wisdom with musical mastery.

She holds degrees in Music, Sociolinguistics (Swarthmore College), and a Master of Divinity (University of Sufism). Laila is a graduate of Grammy Award-winning David Darling’s Music for People improvisation facilitation training, and has studied with Bobby McFerrin, Rhiannon, and John McCutcheon, among others. She has immersed herself in interfaith work, global musical traditions, and lived in Africa, Ireland, and Germany, enriching her spiritual and artistic path.

The University of Sufism presents Healing Sounds of the Abrahamic Faiths, a groundbreaking program exploring the mystical power of sacred sound in Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Learn from renowned

masters as they unveil how sacred vibrations can restore balance, elevate consciousness, and awaken the divine within. Enroll now and begin your path toward sacred sound healing. Visit www.sufiuniversity.org to learn more or call 800-238-3060 x701 to speak with an admissions counselor.

Full program course descriptions: https://sufiuniversity.org/healing-sounds-of-the-abrahamic-faiths/healing-sounds-course-list/

Natalie Brown, host of Sounds Heal Podcast:

http://www.soundshealstudio.com

http://www.facebook.com/soundshealstudio

http://www.instagram.com/nataliebrownsoundsheal

http://www.youtube.com/soundshealstudio

Music by Natalie Brown, Hope & Heart http://www.youtu.be/hZPx6zJX6yA