Passionate Performer Podcast

Ep. 84: Failing Forward: What Didn’t Work & Why I’m Grateful It Didn’t

In this episode, Melissa shares three moments that felt like failures at the time: a project that almost didn’t happen, a steady gig she chose to walk away from, and a missed opportunity that turned into something much bigger. Each one led to unexpected clarity, creative growth, and momentum she couldn’t have planned. If you’re starting the year questioning a decision, grieving something that didn’t work out, or wondering whether a closed door means you’ve failed—this conversation is for you.
RESOURCES/MENTIONS:Ep. 62: Can I Create My Own Cabaret? with Gina MorganoLittle Theatre of NorfolkSlay The Stage courseMVP Collective PhotographyAnne Lammott
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

Ep. 83: Singer Scaries & Seasonal Shifts

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

Ep 82: Green Room Etiquette - At Peace With Yourself On & Off Stage

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

Ep. 81: Singer to Confident Artist: 3 Signs You’re Growing

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

Ep. 80: That One Bad Performance STILL Haunts Me with Sophie Adickes

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

Ep. 79: Stop Using Every Concert as a Career Move

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

Ep. 78: Am I Really A "Vocal Athlete"? with Maurice Goodwin M.S., CCC-SLP

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

Ep. 77: Two Words That Changed My Singing (and Can Change Yours)

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

Ep. 76: Am I Ready For A Tour? with Faith Candino

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

Ep. 75: Booked & Blessed And Then I'm Not. What Should I Do? with Emily Hatch

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