Melissa shares what it’s really like to show up on the tough days - when energy is low, the voice feels off, and motivation just isn’t there. She opens up about navigating seasonal changes, mood dips, and the pressure to keep performing, offering reminders for how to not only get the job done, rehearse, or sing - but how to do so without contributing to the burnout. RESOURCES/MENTIONS:Nolan's Wake at Zieder's American Dream Theater Ep. 31: The singer's self-care for the winter blues Ready to sing with freedom and reimagine what a joy-filled performance career looks like! Check out the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Ever feel like two different people - the confident performer on stage and the self-doubting version backstage? In this episode, Melissa explores what it really means to show up with integrity and peace of mind as a singer. From navigating negativity in green rooms to staying grounded when others aren’t, you’ll learn how to protect your energy, embody professionalism, and perform from a place of authenticity, on and off stage.RESOURCES/MENTIONS:Pelagius The MusicalLavender Fire MusicSlay The Stage courseNolan's Wake at Zieder's American Dream Theater Ep. 80: That One Bad Performance STILL Haunts Me with Sophie AdickesEp. 81: Singer to Confident Artist: 3 Signs You’re Growing   Ready to sing with freedom and reimagine what a joy-filled performance career looks like! Check out the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

We get so caught up in "fixing" all of our performance problems that we forget to pause and celebrate our progress. In this episode, Melissa breaks down 3 signs your confidence is growing as an artist, with real stories from singers stepping into their power and owning their voices like never before.RESOURCES/MENTIONS:Ep. 80: That One Bad Performance STILL Haunts Me with Sophie AdickesReady to sing with freedom and reimagine what a joy-filled performance career looks like! Check out the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Sophie Adickes - performer turned mental performance coach - joins Melissa to chat about moving past those cringe-worthy stage moments and owning your place in the spotlight. With her mix of vocal chops, psychology know-how, and coaching experience, she’ll share down-to-earth tips to help you shake off the blunders, build confidence, and step on stage like you belong there.RESOURCES/MENTIONS:Ep. 79: Stop Using Every Concert As A Career MoveWork with Sophie:WebsiteInstagram @mindbody_strengthcoachReady to sing with freedom and reimagine what a joy-filled performance career looks like! Check out the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

If every concert, gallery visit, or night out has turned into “networking,” you’re not alone—but it’s costing you your joy. In this episode, Melissa shares why consuming art without an agenda is essential for staying inspired as a singer. She offers personal stories and practical steps to help you reconnect with why you love music and singing in the first place, and how to move forward embracing spontaneity and inspiration.RESOURCES/MENTIONS:"The Artist Way" Julia Cameron"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins ReidThe Fresh MarketLearn to navigate sing with freedom and fuel your creativity! Join the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Professional vocal coach and speech-language pathologist Maurice Goodwin joins Melissa to talk about why singers should see themselves as vocal athletes. Performing isn’t just about hitting the high notes — it’s about training, conditioning, and recovery, just like any athlete would. We’ll explore the biggest mistakes singers make when it comes to vocal care, why prevention is more powerful than “fixing,” and the essential shifts you need to make if you want your voice to last for the long run.All things Maurice:Instagram & TikTok: @maurice_goodwin & @voiceproedWebsite: http://www.mauricegoodwin.com Need help not only navigating your vocal challenges, mindset, while also working through your gigging game plan? Join the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

As singers, we put ourselves in spaces that test us—auditions, competitions, performances—and so often, the inner dialogue we carry into those moments is, “Am I good enough?” But what if the question itself is wrong? In this episode, Melissa shares three personal stories from her own journey that show how this simple phrase can transform the way you sing, perform, and take up space as an artist.RESOURCES:"The Artist Way" Julia CameronLearn to navigate those mental blocks with a community of artists just like you! Join the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

We're kicking off season 3 with professional musical theatre actress Faith Candino! Fresh off the second leg of the Chicago National Tour, she joins Melissa to unpack what it really takes to know if you’re ready to hit the road. Together, we’ll break down the signs that you’re prepared, the red flags that you might need more time, and practical next steps to get yourself tour-ready — body, mind, and voice.All things Faith:Instagram: @curlycandinoTickets to The Producers in AtlantaRESOURCES:Stage Write Good NotesNeed help not only navigating your vocal challenges, mindset, while also working through your gigging game plan? Join the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Professional artist, voice specialist, coach, and podcast host, Emily Hatch, joins Melissa to talk about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with career setbacks. We unpack the fear and self-doubt that can creep in when things slow down, and offer real, grounded ways to reset, refocus, and take your next right step forward - without losing your joy or sense of purpose.All things Emily:Instagram: @emilysparklechickenhatchWebsiteHonestly, Dear Listener PodcastRESOURCES:The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron Circe by Madeline MillerNeed help not only navigating your vocal challenges, but also working through your gigging game plan? Join the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

You’ve been at this for a while, but you’re still settling for paid performances that have you feeling like you really don’t want to do it anymore. Let’s break down why you’re feeling this way, and help you figure out the next right steps that are going to help you advocate for yourself and perform the way you want to as a pro or semi-pro singer. RESOURCES:The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. The Wisdom of Your Body by Hilary L. McBride PhD Honestly, Dear Listener Podcast episodeEp. 33: Restaurant Gig Contracts - the DOs & DON'TsNeed help not only navigating your vocal challenges, but also working through your gigging game plan? Join the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

That dry-mouth feeling is "no bueno" – especially when it’s time to step up to the mic. Melissa’s breaking down the real issue behind the issue, and how to troubleshoot your performance when this happens.RESOURCES:Atomic Habits by James Clear Dry Mouth & Anxiety article Discover HOW your voice works and what to do to begin singing the songs you love with the START Singing mini-course. Get it HERE.OR get the course PLUS our entire library of resources, lesson discounts, and extensive training when you join the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Non-binary vocalist, music director, and voice coach, Christopher Brent Davis, joins Melissa to unpack a question so many performers wrestle with - sharing their personal journey of being vocally miscategorized, the emotional toll of singing music that doesn’t align with your identity, and what it takes to reclaim your voice on your own terms. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by expectations or disconnected from the music you’re “supposed” to sing, this episode offers powerful validation, and a path forward.Follow CBD's work on Instagram: @thecbdmusicstudioTrain your voice with freedom, flexibility, and FUN inside the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. Get my FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance MUSIC: "It's Time"By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Melissa chats about that all-too-familiar feeling when a song just isn’t clicking, no matter how many times you practice. She’ll help you stop stressing about sounding like the original and start finding what works for your voice, with simple tips to make the song feel more natural, expressive, and true to you.RESOURCES:Transposable tracks: https://www.karaoke-version.com/ Transpose Plug-In on Chrome: https://transpose.video/Turn each and every cover your sing into a MASTERPIECE with my Spice Up Your Song video training! Get it HERE.Train your voice with freedom, flexibility, and FUN inside the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. Get my FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Are you worried about your teen's involvement in the arts, but noticing toxic behaviors like favoritism or precasting? Join us as we navigate the delicate balance between nurturing creativity and addressing harmful dynamics in artistic environments.Ep. 49: Dealing with Difficult Directors & Doing Theatre Differently with Sarah Joy Kane Train your voice with freedom, flexibility, and FUN inside the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. Get my FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HEREGet 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance   MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

In this special encore episode from Season 1, vocal coach, professional singer, and songwriter, Kerri Ho, shares her personal journey of how she navigated vocal nodules, what her rehabilitation process looked like, and gives you advice on what you can do NOW to sing stronger than ever. This is not the end of your vocal career – it could be the beginning of something better! Connect with Kerri Ho: https://thesongbirdtree.com Learn to manage your vocal health & stamina, while singing with FREEDOM inside the Passionate Performer Program! CLICK HERE to learn more. Get 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformance MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Thinking about starting a YouTube channel for your singing but feel stuck? Singer, songwriter, and voice coach Shari Bennett-Jackson joins me to break down common fears, content myths, and simple steps to get started - no perfection required.Don’t miss out on our BONUS training with Shari inside the Passionate Performer Program on May 14, 2025! Get access to the class and the recording when you become a member:  https://www.mvcperformance.com/passionateperformerprogram Connect with Shari Bennett-Jackson: https://www.thisisshari.com/  Subscribe to her channel:  @thisisshari  Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below or connect with me on Instagram. What's your biggest challenge in starting a YouTube channel for singing? MUSIC: "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Ever been told your voice sounds too Broadway or too classical for a pop audition or performance? Don’t panic. This episode is your guide to making a smooth shift into pop vocal territory. We’ll talk tone adjustments, reducing vibrato, and choosing songs that let your voice shine without losing your unique sound. Let’s expand your singing toolbox!Vocalab ResourcesGet more detailed coaching and our entire library of pop singing resources when you become a Passionate Performer Program member! Try it free for 7 days. Join HERE.Get 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformanceMUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025

Today, in celebration of World Voice Day, we are delving into an essential topic: 'Why Do I Sing?' This episode is dedicated to all the long-time singers out there who might have lost their spark and need to rediscover their love for singing again. You're also getting an inside look at how we roll inside the Passionate Performer Program. Ready to dive deeper? Join HERE!Get your FREE 7 Days to the Stage Journal HERE and feel your BEST the week of the show!Get 1 MONTH FREE when you sign up for Podbean's Podcast subscription services by visiting: http://www.podbean.com/mvcperformanceMUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to put yourself out there, THIS is it. Professional singer, speaker, and business coach Marta Spirk is sharing her real-world experience and best booking strategies to help you stop waiting and start doing. Messy action beats no action—so let’s go!CLICK HERE for all things Marta Spirk. 🎤Need extra guidance in your mental & vocal prep as you get ready to hit the stage? Become a Passionate Performer Program member today! Get started HERE.MUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025

Rebounding from a disappointing audition can be tough. Whether the accompanist played your song wrong or nerves got the best of you, this episode explores why these setbacks hurt and how to prepare for future auditions with resilience.Are you a musical theatre singer in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area? Sign up for my April workshop HERE. Get my Slay The Stage course and ALL of the resources Melissa mentions in this episode when you become a Passionate Performer Program member. Join HERE!MUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025