Passionate Performer Podcast

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 & @voiceproed Website: 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 HERE 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

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 Cameron Learn 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 HERE 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

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: @curlycandino Tickets to The Producers in Atlanta RESOURCES: Stage Write  Good Notes 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 HERE 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

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: @emilysparklechickenhatch Website Honestly, Dear Listener Podcast RESOURCES: The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron Circe by Madeline Miller Need 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 HERE 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

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 episode Ep. 33: Restaurant Gig Contracts - the DOs & DON'Ts Need 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 HERE 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

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: @thecbdmusicstudio 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 HERE 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

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 HERE 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

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 HERE 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

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? 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

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 Resources Get 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/mvcperformance MUSIC "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All 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. Cartwright All 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. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Getting emotional on stage is one thing—losing control is another. If tears keep hijacking your performances, this episode will help you understand why it happens, stop judging yourself, and what you can do to stay present, & connected. Get access all of the resources Melissa mentions in this episode when you become a Passionate Performer Program member. Join HERE! Other resources: The Body Keeps The Score Dr. Nicole LePera Dr. Jon Skidmore Ep. 62: Can I Create My Own Cabaret? with Gina Morgano MUSIC "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025

Ever dreamed of putting together your OWN show? Professional singer, voice coach, and cabaret queen, Gina Morgano, is gonna show us how! PLUS, Melissa gives you an exclusive behind the scenes look at how she self-produced her own show. Get access to our BONUS training on April 2 with Gina inside the Passionate Performer Program membership. Join HERE to become a member, get access to the class, and other industry experts! Gina Morgano "Create Your Cabaret" course Website @ginamorgano on Instagram & Facebook   Allie Tyler The Voicepreneur  MUSIC "It's Time" By: Melissa V. Cartwright All rights reserved © 2025