Pedro Segundo–otherworldly percussionist, sound wizard, and personal role model–is back on the podcast to talk about making other people feel valued, cultivating an unbiased relationship with sound, finding "home" when living in multiple places, travel tips, civilian life, making time for yourself, and celebrating silence.

Emily Fredrickson–trombonist, composer, arranger–opens up about dungeons & dragons saving her life, trying to quit music, working with Dee Dee Bridgewater, day jobs, the nonprofit world, therapy and depression, permission to be selfish, growing your career through genuine connections, and getting excited about our flaws.

Angie Marianthi–multi-instrumentalist and director of the adult education program Boise Music Lessons–joins me to talk about gate-keeping, teaching adults who don't think they can play music, busking, finding your place in the music world, the Boise music scene, and if getting "serious" about music actually works.

Brendan Keller-Tuberg–Australian bassist and composer–gives us all permission to honor the music we enjoy. We chat about rage composing, promoting collectivism, Bladerunner 2049, what makes music valuable, My Chemical Romance, "art" vs "popular" music, vulnerability, and (of course) institutional arts education. In Spite of It All is Brendan's new album which, in addition to being the subject matter for a significant portion of the episode, is breathtaking. I sincerely hope you can make time to listen to this lush, cathartic, and deeply moving sonic offering.

Monica Shriver–woodwindist, educator, visual artist, and host of Brave Musician–joins me to talk about creating communities where everyone feels they belong, leading our friends towards a deeper connection with music, imposter syndrome, dropping out of school, challenges faced by doublers, and removing systemic obstacles imposed on female musicians.

Coty Raven Morris–speaker, educator, artist, conductor, and founder of Being Human Together–joins me to talk about judgement, being afraid of singing, proudly celebrating ourselves, houselessness, having uncomfortable conversations in the classroom, and accessing the healing power of the voice.

This episode's theme music is a field recording of The Preservation Hall All Stars from Mardi Gras 2020.

Brad Webb – drummer, composer, bandleader, multi-hobbyest– on avoiding linear thinking, potentially quitting music, not having music as his main source of income, surfing, defining quality, exploring other interests, experiencing balance, and getting punched in the face by music. Brad was the first person to accept me in the New Orleans music community and remains a dear friend and mentor.

Shea Pierre is a Louisiana native, husband, father, pianist, and community activist. We talk about diet tips for busy musicians, low vibrational cats, experiencing taste on a deeper level, and what comes next us him post-Ida. He and his community lost their homes and most of their material possessions to Hurricane Ida. In need of support, but wanting to provide something of value in return, he released Food & Mood: a cookbook/album project for cultivating mindful, enriching meal experiences.

Whether you're new to the show, missed one of these, or just want another round of wholesome goodness, these are the episodes I believe best capture the essence of The Happy Musicians. Thanks Matt Kilby, Meagan Johnson, Mikel Patrick Avery, Brent Wallarab, Roxy Coss, and Sean Jones for your wisdom and support!

My favorite moments from every episode all in one place. This is a serious dose of human, wholesome connection, and it's guaranteed to brighten your day. Thank you all for listening and being on this journey with me!