Episodes

  • #166. The Traditions and Limitations of the Master Apprentice Model with Dr Travis Sherwood
    Jun 2 2024

    This week on Voice and Beyond, we revisit an enlightening episode with my dear friend and colleague Dr. Travis Sherwood. Travis, who was recently honoured for his article “Powerful Dynamics: Exploring the Evolution of the Master-Apprentice Tradition,” has been recognized with an honorable mention in the 2023 Richard Sjoerdsma Award for Excellence in Writing.

    Travis holds advanced degrees from the University of Southern California and just recently was tenured and promoted to Associate Professor of Voice at San Diego State University's School of Music and Dance. His active performance career includes recent engagements with the Amarillo Opera, Opera a la Carte, La Jolla Symphony, and various international festivals.

    In addition to his performance career, Travis frequently leads masterclasses and lectures on artistic literacy, student-centered pedagogy, voice pedagogy, and vocal literature. He recently presented “A Compassionate Shift to a More Student-Centered Pedagogy” at the Cal-Western NATS Conference.

    In this episode, Travis delves into his research on the master-apprentice model's traditions and limitations. He explains how this model enforces a hierarchy in the teacher-student relationship, often leading students to prioritize their teacher’s insights over their own, hindering their expressive and autonomous voice exploration. Travis advocates for evolving teaching practices to create safer, more supportive learning environments.

    Join Dr. Travis Sherwood and I for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges traditional teaching methods and encourages reflection on fostering creativity and independence in voice education.

    This episode is proudly sponsored by The LoVetri Institute for Somatic Voicework™ . Go to www.somaticvoicework.com and reserve your spot today to become part of a growing community dedicated to revolutionizing vocal education for generations to come.

    Are you constantly battling with food cravings, struggling to resist temptation, and feel like you just can't break the cycle? My dear friend Dr Glenn Livingston has a transformational new book that you can read for free as a listener of A Voice and Beyond. Visit www.DefeatYourCravings.com

    In This Episode
    0:00 - Sponsored Ad: The LoVetri Institute of Somatic Voicework™
    7:52 - History and impact of the master-apprentice model in music education
    19:29 - Limitations of the master-apprentice teaching model in voice lessons
    26:11 - The limitations of a traditional teaching approach
    31:17 - Sponsored Ad: Free Book ‘Defeat your cravings’ by Dr. Glenn Livingston
    52:27 - Teaching voice lessons, emphasizing student-centered practices
    53:48 - Sponsor the podcast
    1:07:11 - Student-centered learning in voice education

    Find Dr. Travis Online

    • Website
    • YouTube

    Ready to reach a global audience with your product or service? We offer multiple opportunities for advertisement sponsorship on A Voice and Beyond. Email info@drmarisaleenaismith.com or visit the sponsor page to learn more.

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/166.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • #165. Calm the Chaos: Conquering Busy Brain Syndrome with Dr Romie Mushtaq
    May 26 2024

    This week on A Voice and Beyond, we introduce you to Dr. Romie Mushtaq, a distinguished neurologist and creator of the brainSHIFT Protocol. She is a leading authority in stress management and leadership wellness, and her recently released book, *The Busy Brain Cure: The Eight-Week Plan to Find Focus, Tame Anxiety, and Sleep Again*, is already making waves. Dr. Romie is also a highly sought-after speaker, and her work has been featured in outlets such as Forbes, NBC, and TEDx.

    In this episode, Dr. Romie tackles the pressing issue of "Busy Brain" syndrome and the dangerous glorification of stress and burnout, which have far-reaching consequences for all of us. This crisis affects productivity, performance, and mental well-being, and it robs us of countless hours of vital sleep.

    With the world still grappling with the aftermath of a pandemic, stress levels are at an all-time high. "Busy Brain" syndrome is a crisis with far-reaching effects, and Dr. Romie shares some solutions from her ground-breaking book, The Busy BrainCure. During the episode, I share that I completed the Busy Brain protocol, and not surprisingly, the results came back saying that I had brain strain. Thankfully, Dr. Romie talked me through some of the options available to help me.

    I love that Dr. Romie’s expertise is not just academic; it's practical, actionable, and urgently needed in today's high-stress work environments. Whatever you do, be sure to go and listen to this insightful and very important conversation with Dr. Romie Mushtaq.

    This episode is proudly sponsored by The LoVetri Institute for Somatic Voicework™ . Go to www.somaticvoicework.com and reserve your spot today to become part of a growing community dedicated to revolutionizing vocal education for generations to come.

    Are you constantly battling with food cravings, struggling to resist temptation, and feel like you just can't break the cycle? My dear friend Dr Glenn Livingston has a transformational new book that you can read for free as a listener of A Voice and Beyond. Visit www.DefeatYourCravings.com

    In This Episode
    0:00 - Sponsored Ad: The LoVetri Institute of Somatic Voicework™
    6:12 - Leadership and mental health in high-stress environments
    15:27 - Stress V’s Anxiety
    24:16 - Impact on sleep and hormones
    29:56 - Stress, anxiety and burnout in today’s society
    31:11 - Sponsored Ad: Free Book ‘Defeat your cravings’ by Dr. Glenn Livingston
    43:53 - Sponsor the podcast
    48:00 - Comfort food and social connection

    Find Dr. Romie Online

    • Website
    • Instagram
    • Facebook
    • YouTube

    Ready to reach a global audience with your product or service? We offer multiple opportunities for advertisement sponsorship on A Voice and Beyond. Email info@drmarisaleenaismith.com or visit the sponsor page to learn more.

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/165.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

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    1 hr
  • #164. Crush your Cravings: A Mindful Approach to Healthy Weight Loss with Dr Glenn Livingston
    May 19 2024

    In this week’s episode of A Voice and Beyond, we delve into the challenging issues associated with food cravings, overeating, and bingeing with renowned psychologist Dr. Glenn Livingston. As the CEO of a multi-million-dollar consulting firm serving Fortune 500 clients in the food industry, Dr. Livingston brings a wealth of experience to the table, having sold a staggering $30,000,000 worth of marketing consulting services throughout his career.

    Disillusioned by the limitations of traditional psychology in addressing issues of weight and food obsession, Dr. Livingston embarked on a decades-long journey of research. Through his work with patients and a self-funded program involving over 40,000 participants, he gained deep insights into the nature of food cravings and overeating.

    What sets Dr. Livingston apart in the weight loss industry is not just his professional expertise but also his personal journey. Having overcome his own battle with obesity and food addiction, he offers a unique perspective rooted in firsthand experience. In today’s show, Dr. Glenn shares his ground-breaking theories and research, which have also been featured in his brilliant book Defeat Your Cravings as well as in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, and many others, as well as on major media platforms including ABC, WGN, and CBS radio. Dr. Glenn gives you, our listener, the unique opportunity to download his transformational book for free at www.DefeatYourCravings.com . You can also find the link in the show notes. It’s time to unlock a healthier, happier you with Dr. Glenn Livingston.

    This episode is proudly sponsored by The LoVetri Institute for Somatic Voicework™ . Go to www.somaticvoicework.com and reserve your spot today to become part of a growing community dedicated to revolutionizing vocal education for generations to come.

    Last chance to get your copy of 'Singing in Tune' by Karen Lyu -
    www.singingintunebook.com

    In this Episode
    0:00 - Sponsored Ad: The LoVetri Institute of Somatic Voicework™
    6:36 - Obesity, food obsession and personal experience with weight loss
    14:24 - Overcoming food addiction through self-awareness and self-control
    25:20 - Decision fatigue and strategies for simplifying daily choices
    27:39 - Sponsored Ad: ‘Singing in Tune' hybrid Ebook by Karen Lyu
    35:04 - Willpower, decision fatigue, and shame in relation to personal growth
    42:56 - Binge eating, emotional trauma and mental health
    49:45 - Sponsored Ad: Defeat your cravings
    1:03:03 - Healthy eating habits and food rules

    Find Dr Glenn Livingston Online

    • Website
    • Instagram
    • Facebook

    Ready to reach a global audience with your product or service? We offer multiple opportunities for advertisement sponsorship on A Voice and Beyond. Email info@drmarisaleenaismith.com or visit the sponsor page to learn more.

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/164.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • #163. A Masterclass in Clarity
    May 12 2024

    Join us for this week’s episode of A Voice and Beyond, where we embark on a journey of personal growth and self-discovery. We delve into the significance of clarity in defining our true identities and aspirations, recognizing the energy and determination needed for self-improvement. According to research, a lack of clarity can hinder progress and limit our potential for growth and fulfilment, and our conversation highlights the importance of regular self-assessment in overcoming challenges around clarity. By consistently asking ourselves challenging questions about who we are and what we aim to achieve, we can find clarity and purpose in our endeavours.

    Throughout the episode, we provide practical steps to cultivate self-awareness, set intentions, and align actions with desired outcomes. We share insights into the transformative power of consciously choosing and embodying the traits we desire through intention and habit. Our aim is to empower individuals to take control of their lives and to embrace clarity as a driving force for personal evolution and fulfilment. We welcome you to join us on this journey of self-discovery and growth on A Voice and Beyond. It is time to unlock the power of your true potential within yourself.

    This episode is proudly sponsored by The LoVetri Institute for Somatic Voicework™ . Go to www.somaticvoicework.com and reserve your spot today to become part of a growing community dedicated to revolutionizing vocal education for generations to come.

    In this episode
    0:00 - Sponsored Ad: The LoVetri Institute of Somatic Voicework™
    5:41 - Personal growth through self-awareness
    11:40 - Decision making
    18:10 - Finding clarity and purpose in life

    Ready to reach a global audience with your product or service? We offer multiple opportunities for advertisement sponsorship on A Voice and Beyond. Email info@drmarisaleenaismith.com or visit the sponsor page to learn more.

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/163.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

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    26 mins
  • #162. The Truth about Singing: Mythbusting with Chris Johnson Part 2
    May 5 2024

    This week on A Voice and Beyond, we're thrilled to have Chris Johnson return to the show for the second instalment of his informative interview. In this episode, Chris, an esteemed vocal coach with international recognition, delves into dispelling more of the most widespread myths surrounding singing and singing voice training. With a background in vocal manual therapy and myofascial release Chris has extensive experience as both a singing teacher and vocal, bringing a holistic perspective to his training approach, acknowledging the interconnectedness of mind, body, and voice.

    As we navigate the vast expanse of the internet, we encounter a bombardment of information, much of which is misleading. From YouTube tutorials to social media posts, misinformation regarding singing techniques and voice coaching inundates our screens. In an industry lacking regulation, self-proclaimed experts promise to deliver the key to vocal excellence.

    Chris addresses misconceptions surrounding crucial aspects of vocal training, such as support, placement, the necessity of a certain tone qualities across different singing styles. Join us as we unravel these myths and gain valuable insights into nurturing healthy vocal production.

    Tune in to Part 2 of my conversation with Chris Johnson, and if you missed Part 1, you can catch up in Episode #159.

    This episode is proudly sponsored by Karen Lyu, whose book 'Singing in Tune' takes a truly holistic approach to singing and contains clearly defined, yet simple-to-understand lessons, exercises, and practical tips for developing body awareness and maintaining a healthy, in-tune, and skilled voice. Get your copy now at www.singingintunebook.com

    In this Episode
    0.00 - Sponsored Ad: Singing In Tune Book by Karen Lyu
    5:53 - Vocal placement and sensation in singing
    15:08 - Singing technique and support strategies
    30:28 - Beauty in singing, is subjective and influenced by cultural norms
    42:26 - Resonance strategies for singing in different genres
    52:26 - Myths about classical singing and its impact on contemporary vocal training
    1:03:20 - Vocal coaching and education with Chris Johnson

    Find Chris Johnson Online

    • Website
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Twitter

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/159.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

    Follow me on Instagram.

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • #161. Embodying Love Consciousness with Dr Teri Baydar
    Apr 28 2024

    This week on A Voice and Beyond, we welcome Dr. Teri Baydar, a leadership development consultant and Certified Professional Coactive Coach with over 17 years of experience who focuses on guiding C-Suites and high achievers towards personal growth for the greater good. She has worked with various organizations like the Boston Consulting Group, Harvard University, Pfizer, and more. Her expertise lies in transformational thinking and helping clients develop traits like calmness under stress, self-awareness, confidence, authenticity, and emotional intelligence.

    Dr. Teri, who is also an inspirational speaker, host of the podcast Paradise Reclaimed Podcast, and emerging author, discusses her book "Flip Your Switch" on today’s show. Dr. Teri provides actionable steps and profound concepts to offer life-changing insights, regardless of where listeners are in their personal journey. She shares strategies for navigating life's difficult choices and equips listeners with skills and tools to unearth the magic within themselves and the world. Whether you're a thinker, an aspiring leader, or someone seeking to make a difference, Dr. Teri's book promises to resonate and inspire growth and transformation. If you are ready to make a change in your life, you don’t want to miss this interview with Dr. Teri Baydar.

    This episode is proudly sponsored by Karen Lyu, whose book 'Singing in Tune' takes a truly holistic approach to singing and contains clearly defined, yet simple-to-understand lessons, exercises, and practical tips for developing body awareness and maintaining a healthy, in-tune, and skilled voice. Get your copy now at www.singingintunebook.com

    In This Epsiode
    0:00 - Sponsored Ad: Singing In Tune Book by Karen Lyu
    6:04 - Leadership, Consciousness and Precognition
    15:47 - Social constructs influence on our behaviour
    29:15 - Inner critic in creative industries
    44:02 - Personal growth and confidence
    52:09 - Love V's War and the importance of creating value


    Find Dr. Teri Baydar Online

    • Website
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • YouTube

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/161.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

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    59 mins
  • #160. A Masterclass in the Art of Focus
    Apr 21 2024

    In our modern, fast-paced world, the struggle to maintain focus has become increasingly difficult for all of us, impacting various aspects of our lives. One reason for this challenge is the constant bombardment of information competing for our attention. From our smartphones buzzing with notifications to endless streams of information on social media platforms, our attention is constantly being pulled in multiple directions, making sustained focus a daunting task. Additionally, factors such as stress, anxiety, and fatigue further hinder our ability to concentrate on those important tasks at hand.

    Ultimately, the inability to focus not only undermines our performance and well-being but also diminishes our capacity to fully engage with the world around us, limiting our potential for growth and fulfilment. Today’s show is a masterclass on how to increase your level of focus as we explore five key areas that can transform our lives when given the attention and focus they deserve. By keeping these key building blocks of achievement on our mental dashboard, we can unlock a life of joy, significance, and abundance.

    This episode is proudly sponsored by The CCM Vocal Pedagogy Institute, offering comprehensive training for singing teachers and voice specialists. Dive deeper into the science and art of voice pedagogy with their unique programs. Visit www.ccminstitute.com to learn more.

    In this Episode

    • 00:00 - Sponsored Ad: The CCM Institute
    • 09:19 - Desire: The Starting Point of Achievement
    • 18:27 - Direction: Planning Your Path
    • 25:55 - Discipline: The Key to Consistency
    • 32:22 - Distraction Detachment: Managing Interruptions
    • 41:29 - Destructive Self Talk: Changing Negative Patterns
    • 53:25 - Conclusion and Encouragement for Personal Growth

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/160.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

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    54 mins
  • #159. The Truth about Singing: Mythbusting with Chris Johnson Part 1
    Apr 14 2024

    The internet is a minefield of information, but it is also rife with misinformation, and when it comes to voice teaching, as an industry, we are not excluded from the bombardment of information. Whether it’s a YouTube video, an Instagram post, a TikTok video, or a post on a social media forum, there is an inundation of misinformation regarding how to sing, voice training techniques, and singing teachers and coaches themselves showing us how they believe it should be done. We are in an unregulated industry, and anyone can claim to have discovered the holy grail of vocal greatness. Therefore, this week on A Voice and Beyond, I asked Chris Johnson to return to the show as our special guest and voice geek, to spill the tea and shed the truth about some of the most widely spread myths that apply to singing.

    Chris Johnson is an internationally acclaimed singing teacher and highly experienced vocal coach, who has been trained in vocal manual therapy, massage, and myofascial release, and his training perspective respects the whole self. He is the founder of the singing teacher training organization 'Teach Voice’, and co-founder of one of the most popular podcasts for singers, 'The Naked Vocalist’. Chris has also had a professional performance career and truly understands the demands on today’s singers, and the vital role voice training plays in developing and sustaining healthy vocal production.

    This is a two-part episode, and in this Part 1 episode, Chris is going to address myths around the role of a singing teacher versus a vocal coach, tension, placement, and the role of the breath in the hierarchy of singing. It is a fascinating and informative episode, and Part 2 will be released in three weeks.


    This episode is proudly sponsored by The CCM Vocal Pedagogy Institute, offering comprehensive training for singing teachers and voice specialists. Dive deeper into the science and art of voice pedagogy with their unique programs. Visit www.ccminstitute.com to learn more.


    In this Episode

    • 00:00 - Sponsored Ad: The CCM Vocal Pedagogy Institute
    • 03:00 - Navigating the Sea of Misinformation in Voice Teaching
    • 06:22 - Myth 1: Singing Teacher vs. Vocal Coach – Understanding the Difference
    • 10:19 - Myth 2: The Role and Reality of Tension in Singing
    • 17:10 - The Evolution of Musical Styles and Singers’ Adaptations
    • 23:26 - Myth 3: Is Shouting Really Unhealthy for Singers?
    • 28:57 - Debunking Vocal Myths: Breathiness and Whispering in Singing
    • 34:29 - Myth 4: Does Singing Truly Start with the Breath?

    Find Chris Johnson Online

    • Website
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Twitter

    For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/159.

    Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps!

    Follow me on Instagram.

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    55 mins