Welcome to My Nerd Brain: A Dialogue on Musicians’ Health and Wellness

After joining the mentorship program while serving 21 years in jail, hip hop artist Mac Phipps shares his thoughts on curbing violence in New Orleans and finding better ways to support the youth in our major cities. He also discusses the needs for adults to address the differences between “reality” and “entertainment,” in reference to the lyrics used in hip hop songs, as they have the potential to negatively influence young listeners if misrepresented.

In this episode, I had a really great chat with legendary fusion drummer, Billy Cobham, about his new Masterclass series: Stress Free Drumming with Billy Cobham on Stages Music Arts. He discussed how his desire for regular gigs ultimately led him to composition and career-building personal projects that continue sustain him today.

President of Regal Tip Drumsticks, Carol Calato, talks about the history of Regal Tip as a business and a drumstick, and her journey to taking over her father’s business. She explains the ergonomics of different stick designs and how Regal Tip sets itself apart from the competition. Check out this episode for some great tips on building a solid business while maintaining your own separate personal identity.

In this episode, Intention Coach/Wellness Consultant/ Certified Life Coach, Leighsa Montrose, talks about managing grief, healing trauma, and breaking old patterns through life coaching and therapy.

Episode 43 features audiologists Michele Cramer and Stephanie Solórzano of Hearing Clinic of Greater New Orleans, LLC! We really had an excellent time talking about ears, and that is no sarcasm. Check out our chat about hearing health for musicians and fans of music, hearing aids, custom ear plugs, and some very extended chatter about ear wax. Everything you could ever hope for in a podcast.

Newly-appointed Executive Director of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Anwar Nasir, talks about his background as a professional dancer and its influence on his path to arts admin. He also speaks about the tradition of orchestral work and music, and the ways that he feels diversity and inclusion could help inform and shape the lives of young musicians and composers alike.

Concert pianist, scholar, and chamber musician, Sharon Su, speaks about making classical music more accessible, finding the humor in "serious music," and the practice methods she uses to keep her hands limber, but healthy.

Harold Fethe talks about his evolution as a musician and guitar player after having been diagnosed with multifocal motor neuropathy several years ago.

Sound designer and mastering engineer, Nathan Moody, talks about entrepreneurship and learning how to prioritize a wide variety of professional responsibilities. He also talks about how his hobby of open-ocean kayaking gives him the confidence he needs to be present both in and out of the office.

Drummer and educator, Chris Guccione, talks about keeping up a steady practice routine while being a stay at home dad, as well as the changes in his career since becoming a father.