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Mental Notes
Episode 5 - Ellen Beth Abdi on letters to her 11-year-old self, the power of singing, and why I'm a 6 music dad by osmosis
Season 1, Ep. 5
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In this Episode 5 of Mental Notes, I chat to Ellen Beth Abdi, a musician from Manchester, about the intersection of music and mental health. We explore Ellen's journey in the music industry, the challenges of releasing her debut album, the societal pressures faced by musicians, and how I might be better off hanging my microphone from the ceiling instead of putting it in a coffee mug. Ellen shares insights into her songs and songwriting process, the impact of the pandemic on her career, and the importance of acknowledging privilege. We also discuss why musicians need more support from the government, and how I am a 6 music dad without even trying to be one.
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6. Episode 6 - Holysseus Fly on using music to overcome grief and being a unknown pop sensation
01:09:22||Season 1, Ep. 6In the sixth and final episode of Series 1, fran speak to Holysseus Fly about the intricate relationship between music and mental health. Holly shares her journey as an artist, the pressures of releasing music, and the healing power of creating art from personal experiences. They discuss the importance of honesty in songwriting and how vulnerability can foster deeper connections with listeners. Holly reflects on her experiences with breast cancer and how it has influenced her music, emphasizing the significance of balancing life and art. As always, Fran asks questions he hopes his guest won't hate and a bloody good conversation is borne from his ramblings. If you enjoy this episode, or any of series one, Fran would appreciate a follow on social media (mental_notes_podcast on Instagram and Bluesky) and a nice review on your podcast. Also, tell your mates about the series - and that person you sometimes sit next to on the bus. Anyone, really - tell anyone.
4. Episode 4 - Astles on an album inspired by his uncle's mixtape, community music, and a hopeful view of mental health
54:06||Season 1, Ep. 4In the fourth episode of the Mental Notes Podcast, Fran Slater speaks with musician Dan Astles about his album 'Soundtrack for the 21 Bus Home,' which explores themes of mental health, family, and hope. Dan shares how a mixtape from his late uncle inspired his music and the importance of open conversations about mental health. He discusses his community engagement through songwriting workshops and the role of music in coping with life's challenges. Fran and Dan connect over a shared teenage infatuation with tortured artists, one that Fran doesn't admit he still hasn't quite shaken now, as his 42nd birthday approaches. Follow Fran on Instagram @Mental_Notes_Podcast or Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social to keep in touch with podcast updates and to see Fran try and navigate how the fuck to use social media.
3. Episode 3 - Benedict Benjamin on songwriting, mental health, and the therapy of band practice
57:15||Season 1, Ep. 3In Episode 3 Benedict Benjamin and Fran explore the intersection of mental health and music, discussing personal experiences, the challenges of balancing family life with creativity, and the therapeutic nature of songwriting. They delve into the emotional depth of music, highlighting how storytelling in lyrics can resonate with listeners and provide solace during tough times. Ben shares his experiences with mental health, the cathartic process of writing songs, and the unique struggles of navigating nursery drop-offs with his kids. They even talk about drawing spiderman, sewagey lakes, and how not to pass your fear of dogs onto your children.Note: due to some minor recording issues, it does sound like we were talking over each other on occasion in this episode. I hope that doesn't get in the way of you enjoying another fascinating chat.Find me on Instagram @mental_notes_podcast and on Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social.If you enjoy the episode, please do subscribe to the podcast and leave me a lovely rating or review wherever you get your podcasts.
2. Episode 2 - Bria Salmena talks Big Dog and the battles of being vulnerable on record
52:12||Season 1, Ep. 2In Episode Two of the Mental Notes podcast, host Fran engages with Canadian musician Bria Salmena, discussing the intersection of music and mental health. Bria shares her journey as an artist, the vulnerability of releasing original music, and the importance of open conversations about mental health. They explore the emotional weight of lyrics, the role of music in coping with life's challenges, the significance of support systems, and why Bria's album is called Big Dog and not Kitty-Kat Butterfly.If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and find Fran/Mental Notes on Instagram at @mental_notes_podcast and Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social.
1. Episode 1 - Chloe Foy talks mental health and music
54:26||Season 1, Ep. 1In the very first episode of the Mental Notes podcast, Fran Slater interviews singer-songwriter Chloe Foy, exploring the intersection of music and mental health. Chloe shares her journey as an artist, the challenges of releasing her latest album, and the impact all of this has on her wellbeing. The conversation delves into the importance of honesty in songwriting, the struggles of self-doubt, and the therapeutic nature of music.If you want to find Fran failing to master Instagram and Bluesky, and keep in touch with future news about the series, you can find him @mental_notes_podcast on Instagram and @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social where more regular thoughts on music and mental health will be shared at random.