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

Dr. Laura Bird is a psychologist and neuroscientist who studies the potential therapeutic and health benefits of music training and/or music listening. She chats with me about the future of studies that focus on music’s interaction with the brain and the possible positive outcomes that these studies could provide.

A nice, long chat with New Orleans DJ artist and WWOZ DJ, DJ Soul Sister. We get into the early days of live DJing, as well as a great discussion on maintaining creativity and supporting our musicians during quarantine. And last but not least, The Gap Band…because yes.

As principal horn player for the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Mollie talks about maintaining a busy practice and performance schedule while also running her three CrossFit NOLA locations. She weighs in on the benefits of CrossFit and what drives her to compete year after year. We also reminisce about the wonders of a good college cereal bar. Memories….

Audio engineer, live sound specialist, and teacher, Tim Hall, talks raising two young children during some of the most challenging times in his life. He opens up about his mental health journey that has led him to a place of appreciation and acceptance. Bonus: He also does a great Yosemite Sam.

Neuroscientist and Clinical Research Coordinator at Children’s Hospital Colorado, Kaitlyn Tholen, describes her research into the links between musicianship and the use of memory.  She also chats with me about her relationship with anxiety and the steps she has taken to minimize its effects on herself and others.  Also, Tiger King and Jell-O. You heard me.

Jazz pianist, educator, arranger, and Emmy Award-winning composer, Mike Esneault, shares his thoughts about teaching well-rounded students, by emphasizing life balance and an open mind. He also weighs in on techniques for reducing the potential for injury at the piano, as well as his thoughts on managing anxiety.

International actress, singer, and violinist/violist, Sidonie Smith, shares her insight into preparing for demanding musical theatre roles, maintaining a practice routine as a multi-instrumentalist, and keeping the right mindset to be successful in every role, stage and otherwise.

Thad Beaty of Sugarland fills us in on his fitness journey to becoming an Ironman athlete and coach while making a living as a touring musician.  He discusses the importance of prioritizing your health as a musician and athlete, and the ways in which his foundation, Music That Moves, is helping athletes find causes that speak to them personally.

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Host: Emily Fransen

Guest: Thad Beaty

Producer/Editor: Emily Fransen

Annie Clements of Maren Morris and Sidepiece Band discusses her pregnancy while on the road and throughout this quarantine.  She fills us in on how she makes her relationship work with her husband and fellow musician, Thad Beaty (Episode 10.5).

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Host: Emily Fransen

Guest: Annie Clements

Producer/Editor: Emily Fransen

John Worthington discusses working in the music technology sector, leading projects like QuickTime, the Macintosh MIDI Manager, and his newest project, Jambe.  John also shares his personal struggles with his eyesight and hands during his development of some of his more recent projects.  

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Host: Emily Fransen

Guest: John Worthington

Producer/Editor: Emily Fransen