Passionate Performer Podcast
¡Hola! I’m Melissa V. Cartwright - Latin singer, songwriter, actress, voice coach, and passionate performer just like you. Over the past 25 years, I’ve navigated the ups and downs of life as both a hobby and professional vocalist—and I’m still at it. In this podcast, we’ll tackle the challenges we face - from forgotten lyrics and shaky nerves to vocal fatigue and booking gigs. Think of me as your voice coach and partner-in-crime, here to help you problem solve so that you shine and show up as the best version of yourself. We’re in this TOGETHER, so grab your café or put me in your headphones. Let’s take the next right step toward performing with freedom, confidence, and JOY.
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Episodes
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 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
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 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
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 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 ScoreDr. Nicole LePeraDr. Jon Skidmore
Ep. 62: Can I Create My Own Cabaret? with Gina MorganoMUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 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" courseWebsite@ginamorgano on Instagram & Facebook
Allie Tyler The Voicepreneur MUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Who says you’re not a “real” artist? You don’t need a full album to prove yourself! In this episode, we’re talking about how to build credibility, book gigs, and show off your talent—even if you haven’t recorded music yet. I’ll walk you through practical steps to get noticed, attract opportunities, and make your mark in the industry.Get more insights on how you can maximize your online performances when you join the Passionate Performer Program membership HERE.Tickets to my Sugar & Sazón Cabaret on March 14 HERE. Can't make it to the show? Shop the show merchREFERENCESBrenè Brown - The Gifts of ImperfectionMUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Struggling to project your voice no matter how hard you try? It’s not just about singing harder, but smarter. Let's see what's holding you back and help you unlock the power, and confidence you want when you perform.Join the Passionate Performer Program membership HERE.REFERENCESJustin Stoney - New York Vocal CoachingMeredith Colby - NueroVocal MethodBelt BoxMUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
Ever find yourself struggling to get through your set, feeling like your voice is giving out way too soon? Whether you're a seasoned performer or new to high-demand gigs, vocal fatigue can sneak up fast. In this episode, we break down why it happens—lack of rest, hydration, warm-ups, and even how you structure your set list—and what you can do to fix it. PLUS, get your hands on my free Pre-Show Warmup Video
Hit play and let’s learn to manage your energy, optimizing your voice for longevity, and making sure your performances stay strong from start to finish!Join the Passionate Performer Program membership HERE.MUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Where has she been?? We're taking the same honesty & joy from Cafecito with the Coach, but diving deeper into our performance careers with a name change and new strategy.Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Melissa is here to help you navigate the highs and lows with actionable advice and candid conversations. Get ready to solve challenges, boost your stage presence, and perform with confidence.Subscribe, leave a comment, and unleash your full potential as a performer!Join the Passionate Performer Program membership HERE.MUSIC"It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
Melissa shares one of her most vulnerable moments as a voice & performance coach, which also sparked a 10-year journey into a developing a method that helps singers show up and perform the way they've always dreamed of. PLUS - a super special announcement that will get you fired up to get out there and perform with PASSION!
Let's connect over on Instagram and don't forget to leave a review!
RESOURCES:
SLAY THE STAGE workshop - begins July 8, 2024
Join the NEW Passionate Performer Program
Ep. 54: Anxiety - My Superpower
Ep. 43: When you DON'T get the gig
Ep. 27: How to fill your artistic cup
Follow @mvcperformance on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & YouTube
https://www.mvcperformance.com
MUSIC:
"Cafecito with the Coach" Theme Music by Melissa V. Cartwright © 2022
Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Celebrating PRIDE with trans voice coach & artist, Chris Gallego. You'll be inspired and motivated by Chris's journey and the wonderful work happening inside her studio. It's a thoughtful and fun cafecito for artists and allies alike!
This episode is also available on YouTube. If you're feeling inspired, don't forget to leave a review!
RESOURCES:
Chris Gallego
SLAY THE STAGE workshop - starts July 8, 2024
Voicepreneur Program
Brené Brown
Follow @mvcperformance on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & YouTube
https://www.mvcperformance.com
MUSIC:
"Cafecito with the Coach" Theme Music by Melissa V. Cartwright © 2022