The Sound Singer

Looking Inside the Voice / Vocal Health 101 with Natalia Łastowiecka

In this episode my guest is Natalia Łastowiecka, an SLP specializing in voice, swallow, and upper airway.
Natalia shares her personal journey from being a classical voice performance major to discovering her passion for speech-language pathology after facing vocal challenges herself. We discuss the importance of having a supportive team, including laryngologists and SLPs, especially for professional voice users.
Learn about the significance of baseline assessments, the impact of vocal habits like throat clearing and coughing, and the best practices for maintaining vocal health. Natalia also highlights the importance of hydration, vocal warm-ups, and understanding vocal load to prevent injuries.
Whether you're a singer, voice teacher, or just someone who uses their voice regularly, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to keep your voice healthy and strong.
00:00:20 - Natalia's Journey to Becoming an SLP00:02:09 - Importance of a Voice Care Team00:02:37 - Laryngologist vs. Otolaryngologist00:03:09 - Baseline Endoscopy for Singers00:04:37 - Visualizing the Voice00:05:02 - Impact of Throat Clearing and Coughing00:07:33 - Creating Educational Content00:09:05 - Basics of Vocal Health00:11:10 - Preventative Vocal Health Measures00:14:07 - Vocal Load Management00:14:44 - Speaking Tips for Vocal Health00:17:08 - Common Vocal Injuries00:19:44 - Overall Health and Vocal Health00:22:04 - Treatability of Vocal Conditions00:24:22 - Study on Performance Spaces and Acoustics00:25:42 - Where to Find Natalia Online
 
Natalia's Instagram
Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
For more info please visit: www.alidavocalstudio.com

Boundaries, Singing and the Nervous System with Elise Besler

In this episode, I speak with the inspiring Elise Besler, a somatic voice and boundary coach known for her empowering and compassionate approach as a practitioner. Elise integrates somatic practices and nervous system regulation to help clients overcome barriers to singing, self-expression and communication.
She shares her insights on the connection between the nervous system and effective boundary-setting, explains the role of the vagus nerve in singing, and discusses how singing can be a powerful tool for self care and healing.
We also discuss exercises for managing performance anxiety, the challenges marginalized groups face in setting boundaries, and the importance of self-care in activism to prevent burnout.
00:00:32 - Elise'sJourney and Approach00:02:38 - The Deeper Well: Fear and Trauma in Voice Coaching00:03:16 - Nervous System Regulation and Boundaries00:05:28 - Singing and the Nervous System00:07:54 - Radical Self-Care Through Singing00:08:43 - Overcoming Fear of Criticism in Singing00:10:27 - Childhood Experiences and Voice Suppression00:13:42 - Practical Exercises for Performance Anxiety00:19:26 - Tapping Exercise for Grounding00:21:48 - Understanding Healthy Boundaries00:24:42 - Universal Challenges in Boundary Setting00:28:40 - Activism and Self-Care00:32:07 - Negative Self-Talk and Imposter Syndrome00:35:24 - Combining Somatic Work with Therapy00:38:13 -  Where to Find Elise
 
Elise's Instagram
Elise's Website
 
Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
For more info please visit: www.alidavocalstudio.com
 

Unlearning Perfectionism, Healing Voices: Megan Durham on Trauma-Informed Voice Care

In this episode, I speak with Megan Durham, a singing voice specialist and vocologist from Respire Vocal Wellness. Megan offers valuable insights into vocal rehabilitation, unlearning perfectionism, and the importance of body awareness for singers. She also discusses how we can transform the traditional 'master/apprentice model' in voice education, advocating for a more trauma-informed approach that fosters growth for both educators and students.
00:00:00 - Introduction to Megan Durham00:00:32 - Unique Approaches to Vocal Rehabilitation00:03:55 - Unlearning Perfectionism00:07:02 - Managing Perfectionism and Excellence00:08:20 - Addressing Shame and Self-Criticism00:12:24 - Compassionate, Body-Aware Voice Training00:18:42 - Master-Apprentice Model in Voice Education00:23:15 - Importance of Consent in Voice Training00:28:26 - Creating Trauma-Informed Voice Education00:33:10 - Self-Work for Educators00:34:21 - Grounding Practices for Singers00:39:27 - Integrating Yoga into Daily Life00:41:32 - Where to Find Megan Durham
Megan's Instagram: @respirevocalwellness
Megan's Website
Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
For more info on singing courses and singing lessons please visit: www.alidavocalstudio.com
 

Resilience, Self-Tapes, & Community: Navigating the Industry w/ Alison Araya

In this episode, I speak with Alison Araya. Alison is a seasoned actress best known for her roles in "Julie and the Phantoms," "Peacemaker," and "Lucky Hank." We dive deep into Alison's journey as a performer and her process of characterization. She discusses the importance of resilience in the performing arts, how to navigate nerves during auditions, and the challenges of self-taping in today's digital age. She offers valuable advice for aspiring actors and performers, emphasizing the need for a supportive community.
Whether you're an aspiring performer or a fan of Alison's work, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Don't miss this one! 
00:00:00 - Introduction to Alison Arraya00:01:00 - Memorable Roles in Acting00:02:30 - The Journey into Acting00:04:00 - Cultivating Resilience in the Industry00:05:30 - Preparing for Auditions and Managing Nerves00:08:00 - Challenges of Self-Taping00:09:30 - The Impact of Self-Tapes on Actors00:12:00 - Post-Pandemic Challenges for Performing Artists00:14:00 - Role Preparation Process00:15:30 - Morning Routine Before Going to Set00:17:00 - Challenges Faced in Difficult Roles00:19:30 - Post-Set Rituals and Grounding00:20:30 - Navigating Difficult Characters00:22:00 - Thoughts on Streaming and Industry Changes00:25:00 - Advice for Aspiring Actors00:27:00 - Conclusion and Where to Find Alison
Follow Alison on Instagram: @laalisonaaraya
For inspiring voice / singing content and podcast clips follow Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
For more info on singing courses and voice training please visit: www.alidavocalstudio.com

Teaching the World to Sing: A Conversation with Renowned Vocal Consultant Greg Enriquez

In this episode, I speak with Greg Enriquez. Greg is an internationally renowned vocal consultant and is regarded by entertainment professionals to be the most effective commercial vocal technique instructor in the industry to date.  He has worked with singers, actors and dancers in every aspect of musical performance and is very often a guest lecturer at major voice conferences worldwide. He has been a vocal consultant for pop icons, Broadway stars and continues to train teachers of singing across the globe.  He is an inspirational teacher and, as he puts it, he's teaching the world to sing one voice at a time. 
 
[00:03:59] Embracing the concept of 'next.'
[00:08:21] Vocal science versus art.
[00:09:07] Singing as an art form.
[00:15:17] Consistency in vocal training.
[00:19:50] What makes a good voice teacher or coach.
[00:23:09] Working ourselves out of a job.
[00:30:01] Technique influenced by Seth Riggs.
[00:34:07]Industry demands on vocal performers.
[00:36:31] Pursuing growth.
 
Greg's Instagram page. 
Greg's website
If you've enjoyed these episodes, please leave a 5-star review! Your support means the world! :)
Join Alida Vocal Studio's email list for a free vocal workout, voice content and future podcast episodes. 
For inspiring voice / singing content and podcast clips follow Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
For more info on singing courses and training please visit: www.alidavocalstudio.com

Yoga for Every Body with Jo Hutton: How yoga helps us for performance and life.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jo Hutton, a senior yoga teacher based in Newcastle. Jo runs a friendly online yoga studio aimed at helping everyday people relax and stretch amidst the hustle and bustle of life.
When Jo walked into a yoga class for the first time over 15 years ago, she didn’t know her whole world would change forever. After seeing the transformational results that yoga brought to herself, she decided to dedicate her life to sharing the gift of yoga with others.
In this episode, we delved into the essence of yoga, its ancient roots, and how its practice has evolved to address modern-day pain points.
00:01:06 - how Jo defines yoga and it's many benefits00:04:06 - advice for beginners00:06:17 - yoga for performers and creatives00:09:08 - how Jo's roots in the performing arts lead to yoga00:15:05 - healing through yoga 00:17:04 - the pitfalls of self-improvement00:21:06 - meditation myths and approaches00:27:04 - breathing exercise for relaxation
Jo's Website: https://www.happyyogacommunity.com
Jo's Instagram
If you've enjoyed these episodes, please leave a 5-star review! Your support means the world! :)
Join Alida Vocal Studio's email list for a free vocal workout, voice content and future podcast episodes. 
For inspiring voice / singing content and podcast clips follow Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
For more info on singing courses and training please visit: www.alidavocalstudio.com
 
 

The Artist's Journey: Finding Your Creative Flow, Overcoming People-Pleasing, Healing CPTSD, Finishing Projects

In this episode, I speak with Jessica Baldwin.  She is the owner of True Colours Creativity and Artist Coaching.  Jess is a creativity and productivity coach for singers.
Her journey as an artist ran alongside her expansion from a voice and piano teacher into a creativity and productivity coach with trauma and neurodivergence training.
True Colors Creativity Coaching provides creativity, voice, and executive function coaching to singers and creatives who want to finish projects that let them shine brighter.
00:00:26 - Jessica's Background00:00:53 - Exploring the Creative Mind00:01:33 - Jessica's Journey in Music and Coaching00:09:52 - The Concept of Artistic Journey00:12:08 - Common Fears Among Vocal Performers00:14:19 - Achieving Creative Flow and Completing Projects00:22:09 - Hard Work vs. Perfectionism00:27:17 - Addressing Complex Trauma in Artists00:39:10 - Mental Health Stigma in the Performing Arts00:40:15 - Overcoming Chronic People-Pleasing
Jessica’s website: https://truecolorscreativity.com
Jessica's Instagram.
Creative Kickstart course:https://truecolorscreativity.com/creative-kickstart
Singer’s Guide to Finding Your Authentic Voice:https://truecolorscreativity.com/subscribe-to-the-guide
 
If you've enjoyed these episodes, please leave a 5-star review! Your support means the world!
Join Alida Vocal Studio's email list for a free vocal workout, voice content and future podcast episodes. 
For inspiring voice / singing content and podcast clips follow Alida on Instagram. 
For more info on singing courses and 1:1 training please visit: www.alidavocalstudio.com
 

Voice Therapy, Vocal Health & Redefining 'Singer'

In this episode, I speak with Maurice Goodwin, M.S., CCC-SLP. Maurice is a Speech Language Pathologist, Singing Voice Specialist, voice teacher, and active performer living in Houston, TX. Professionally he specializes in the evaluation and treatment of the singing voice and voice disorders at The Texas Voice Center and also adjunct faculty at Lamar University in the graduate Vocology certificate program. He is a regular lecturer and presenter at national and international conferences focused on the health and education of professional voice users. He is passionate about vocal health education and the intersections of identity and voice. 
This episode covers:
00:00:44 - Maurice's Journey into Voice
00:01:20 - The Role of Voice Therapy
00:02:45 - The Importance of Addressing Underlying Vocal Function
00:03:32 - Common Voice Therapy Exercises
00:04:14 - Moving Beyond Tools in Voice Therapy
00:05:05 - Common Vocal Injuries and Compromises
00:06:37 - Building a Voice Care Team
00:08:13 - Recognizing Vocal Strain and Decline
00:09:23 - Encouraging Exploration Over Performance in Voice Sessions
00:11:10 - The Pressure of Performance and Its Impact
00:12:10 - Voice Hygiene Tips
00:13:13 - Understanding Muscle Tension Dysphonia
00:15:11 - Voice Hygiene and Rest
00:16:10 - Daily Voice Use and Its Impact on Singing
00:17:24 - Acceptance and Joy in One's Voice
00:18:30 - Voice Training and Improvement
00:18:46 - Muscle Tension Dysphonia in Singers
00:20:09 - The Mindset of Acceptance and What to Focus on
00:21:27 - Confidence and Acceptance in One's Voice
00:22:07 - The Interconnectedness of Life and Voice
00:23:46 - The Broad Definition of Being a Singer
 
Maurice's Website: https://www.mauricegoodwin.com/
Instagram: @maurice_goodwin
TikTok: @maurice_goodwin
If you've enjoyed these episodes, please leave a 5-star review! Your support means the world!
Join Alida Vocal Studio's email list for a free vocal workout, voice content and future podcast episodes. 
For voice content and podcast clips follow  Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
www.alidavocalstudio.com
 

Voice Disorders: Impact, Stigma & Healing Through Mindfulness

This episode discusses voice disorders, their impact on singers and voice users, the stigma around having a vocal injury, and how mindfulness can help with healing.  
Catherine is a singer, adjunct voice instructor, mindfulness teacher and researcher.  She holds a graduate certificate in Applied Mindfulness and she offers online meditation courses specifically designed for singers and people with voice disorders.
Catherine recently completed a study (which was published in The Journal of Voice) to determine whether an 8-week mindfulness course could increase mindfulness and lower stress levels in people with voice disorders. She shares with us the details and outcomes of the study.  She also reveals that mindfulness doesn't have to be complicated and that practices can be customized to how your brain works. 
00:00:03 - Introduction to the Podcast00:00:14 - Discussing Voice Disorders and Mindfulness00:00:36 - Introducing Guest Catherine Kay Brown00:01:08 - Mindfulness in Voice Therapy00:01:37 - Catherine's Personal Vocal Injury Story00:04:06 - The Healing Journey and Mindfulness00:07:55 - Pursuing Mindfulness Teaching and Research00:09:30 - Stigma Around Vocal Injury00:10:04 - Advocating for Singers with Voice Disorders00:12:02 - Comparing Singers to Athletes00:12:43 - The Multifactorial Nature of Voice Disorders00:13:05 - Voice Training and Mindfulness Resources00:14:06 - Defining Mindfulness00:15:07 - Research on Mindfulness and Voice Disorders00:17:09 - Emotional Impact of Voice Disorders00:18:15 - Results of the Mindfulness Study00:19:10 - Significance of the Study's Findings00:21:17 - Acceptance and Mindfulness00:22:43 - Group Dynamics in Mindfulness Practice00:24:09 - Practical Mindfulness for Singers00:25:08 - Sharing Personal Stories in Mindfulness Course00:26:02 - Addressing Stress, Tension, Isolation, and Grief00:30:03 - Mindfulness Practice and Training00:33:19 - Mindfulness as a Skill00:37:21 - Tips for Successful Mindfulness Practice00:38:03 - Meditation and Mindfulness Misconceptions00:40:00 - Mindfulness Practice Recommendations00:42:26 - The Importance of Mindfulness Practice00:44:19 - Mindfulness Resources and Courses00:46:09 - Mindfulness Meditations for Sale
 
Catherine's website: catherinekbrown.com
Instagram:  @ckbvoice
Click here to access Catherine’s body scan meditation specifically for singers. 
If you've enjoyed these episodes, please leave a 5-star review! Your support means the world!
Join Alida Vocal Studio's email list for a free vocal workout, voice content and future podcast episodes. 
For voice content and podcast clips follow  Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram. 
www.alidavocalstudio.com

Brain Training for Singers, Performers and Creatives

In this episode I speak with Emilie Leyes.  Emilie is a brain training specialist who holds a master’s in Mind-Body Medicine with a focus in self-directed mental practices to change the brain.  She is trained and certified in Clinical Hypnosis, Positive Psychology, and Positive Neuroplasticity.
Her work includes hypnosis, visualization, laughter yoga, journaling, reframing limiting beliefs and more. With her viral videos on both TikTok and Instagram she is empowering audiences with the tools needed to self regulate, manage stress and change our brains and lives for the better.
This podcast covers:
-Emilie’s journey as an actor/singer/university voice major, her own healing of a chronic illness to now helping others heal
-What brain training is and how can it help performing artists and creatives thrive
-How to prepare for auditions or performances - training your brain in a chaotic environment
-Executive function, completing a task such as practice - how to make practice more manageable and fun 
-A game changing gratitude practice for singers
-The best strategy to quiet your inner critic
-How to access more joy, creativity and playfulness both on and off stage.
-How to improve your mood, reduce stress and increase access to joy and happiness, especially going into the holiday season and the New Year!
-Emilie guides us through a mini hypnosis session live during the podcast (** disclaimer, due to it’s relaxing nature, please DO NOT DRIVE while doing the guided practice!)
-Her new app Doddle - helping creatives access brain training tools on the go! 
Free guided hypnosis: Visualization of tomorrow:
https://www.emilieleyes.com/free-hypnosis
Free Sleep Hypnosis: 
https://www.emilieleyes.com/free-sleep-hypnosis
Emilie's Instagram:  @emilieleyes
Emilie's TikTok: @emilieleyes.hypnosis
 
If you've enjoyed these episodes, please leave a 5-star review! Your support means the world!
Join my email list for further inspiration, voice related content and future podcast episodes. 
For voice content and podcast clips follow  Alida Vocal Studio on Instagram.