Self-Care for The Creative Podcast

From Ballet to Billboard: Faith, Hit Songs & Creative Balance with Lauren Christy

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Lauren Christy, whose incredible journey has taken her from ballet studios to the top of the charts. Known for penning massive hits like “Complicated” and “Sk8er Boi” with Avril Lavigne, Lauren reflects on how pivotal moments—including becoming a mother—aligned with some of the biggest breakthroughs in her career. She shares how her early love of movement and discipline in ballet laid a foundation for creativity, how trusting in divine timing has guided her path, and why she believes the music you make will take care of you—if you take care of it first.
Lauren also opens up about the realities of being a woman in the music industry, the mental toll of high-pressure environments, and why community and collaboration are essential to long-term success. She drops powerful wisdom for aspiring songwriters, including her belief in writing a lot of songs to uncover the gems and her commitment to teaching through masterclasses. From trusting your gut to leaning on faith, Lauren’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to sacrifice your well-being to make it in the music industry—you just have to redefine what success looks like for you.
 
Timestamps:
00:00: Lauren Christy's Musical Journey
02:11: The Impact of Working with Avril Lavigne
05:20: Balancing Motherhood and a Music Career
08:14: Navigating the Music Industry as a Woman
15:14: Faith and Mental Health in High-Pressure Environments
18:29: The Creative Process: Inspiration and Songwriting Tips
22:56: Masterclass Insights and Career Consultations
27:01: Self-Care and Trusting Your Path
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel
FOLLOW LAUREN CHRISTY:
Website: https://laurenchristy.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelaurenchristy/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelaurenchristy
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelaurenchristy

The Power of Authenticity, Listening, and Self-Care in Songwriting with Trey Campbell

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with Grammy-winning songwriter and executive producer Trey Campbell to explore the intersection of emotional intelligence, authenticity, and creative sustainability in the music industry. Trey shares his journey from North Carolina to collaborating with top artists, reflecting on how his early experiences working with young creatives helped shape his unique approach to songwriting. He opens up about the essential skill of listening—how it allows songwriters to hold space for artists and uncover honest, original perspectives that elevate the work. Trey also dives into the importance of self-awareness and safe creative environments that foster vulnerability and connection.
The conversation touches on songwriting technique (hello, “Swedish math”), emotional resilience, and the often overlooked role of personal creativity in collaborative sessions. Trey explains how navigating personal transformation—whether through career changes or inner growth—can lead to greater clarity, more meaningful art, and a deeper connection to self. From breaking down walls in writing rooms to practicing intentional self-care, this episode is packed with gems for any songwriter or creative trying to stay grounded while building a meaningful, sustainable career in music.
 
Timestamps:
00:00: Introduction to Trey Campbell
02:03: Trey's Journey into Songwriting
05:30: The Role of a Songwriter
09:25: Creating a Safe Space in Songwriting
13:55: Self-Care for Creatives
18:04: Navigating Identity and Authenticity
23:35: Educating Through Dialogue
24:19: The Importance of Self-Reflection
25:40: Navigating Authenticity in Songwriting
28:32: Songwriting Tips and Techniques
32:35: Finding Space for Personal Creativity
36:32: Embracing Change as Life Elevation
42:32: Self-Care and Personal Growth
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel
FOLLOW TREY CAMPBELL:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treycampbellmusic/
Spotify (Artist Profile): https://open.spotify.com/artist/0B1MNhh1YCo88CVzSP5j3u

Songwriting, Self-Care & Showing Up: Creativity, Visibility & Mental Health in Music with Christina Tripp

In this inspiring episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with Christina Tripp, a Nashville-based songwriter and social media content creator, to talk about the real-life highs and lows of the creative journey. Christina shares her story of stepping into the music industry, her favorite songwriting practices, and how she works through blocks when inspiration feels out of reach. From the power of journaling and movement to the value of writing alongside stronger creatives, she opens up about what keeps her going and how she stays aligned with her vision—especially when the fear of visibility creeps in.
Together, Stefani and Christina dig into the importance of self-belief, rest, and a solid schedule that supports both productivity and peace of mind. Christina also drops practical tips for content creation (whether you're a planner or a spontaneous soul), and talks about how daily gratitude can help reset your mindset when doubt tries to take over. If you’re looking for encouragement to stay visible, stay grounded, and keep writing even when it’s hard—this episode is packed with gems.
 
Timestamps:
00:00: Introduction to Christina Tripp
03:36: Christina's Musical Journey
05:42: Top Songwriting Tips
08:22: Overcoming Writer's Block
11:10: Recharging Creativity
13:36: The Importance of Scheduling
18:53: Content Creation Strategies
21:18: Facing Visibility Fears
23:41: Self-Care Practices
26:16: Advice to Baby Christina
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel
 
FOLLOW Christina Tripp:
Website: https://www.christinatripp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinatripp/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ7wE60jds6gb-BaE14mhoA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinatripps/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Christinatripp

Mastering Social Media Without Losing Your Mind: Marketing & Mental Health for Artists with Jazmine Valencia

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with music marketing expert and founder of JV Agency, Jazmine Valencia. Together, they dive into the often overwhelming world of social media for artists—unpacking how it affects mental health, creativity, and career longevity. Jaz shares her own journey through the music industry and offers up grounded, practical advice on how artists can craft intentional strategies that actually work. From defining clear goals to understanding what truly resonates with your audience, this conversation is a goldmine for any artist trying to cut through the noise without burning out in the process.
Stefani and Jaz also explore how self-care is non-negotiable when it comes to thriving in the digital space. They talk about the power of setting boundaries with your content, using free tools and AI to boost efficiency, and building a social media plan that’s aligned with your brand—not someone else’s blueprint. Whether you're deep in the scroll hole or totally overwhelmed by the algorithm, this episode reminds creatives that marketing can be both effective and sustainable—with a little intention and a lot of self-compassion.
Timestamps:
00:00: Introduction to Social Media Marketing in Music
03:06: Navigating Mental Health and Social Media
06:05: Crafting a Social Media Strategy
08:58: Understanding Artist Branding and Niche
12:01: The Importance of Commitment in Social Media
15:08: Practical Tips for Social Media Success
17:52: Leveraging Technology and Tools
21:04: Self-Care Practices for Creatives
23:59: Advice for Aspiring Artists
25:06: Conclusion and Resources
LINKS
 
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel
FOLLOW JAZMINE VALENCIA:
JV Agency Website: https://www.jvagency.co/
JV Agency Instagram: https://www.tiktok.com/@jvagency
JV Agency Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JVAgency/
JV Agency TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jvagency
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djjazzy/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JazmineValencia/

The Best Self-Care Routine for Songwriters – Daily Habits That Support Sustainable Creativity

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, Stefani Fryzel dives into what self-care actually looks like for songwriters and creatives trying to thrive—not just survive—in the music industry. She shares powerful and practical tools like the magic of morning rituals to set the vibe for your day, the underrated importance of rest and play in refueling your creative spark, and how a solid nighttime wind-down routine can help you reset for what’s next. From managing emotional rollercoasters to honoring your energy through the natural seasons of creativity, Stefani reminds us that self-care isn’t just bubble baths and breaks—it’s an active practice in protecting your peace, your mental health, and your art.
She also gets real about social media boundaries, the emotional aftermath of pouring your heart into your work, and how listening to new music can reignite your inspiration. Whether you're in hustle mode or healing mode, this episode will encourage you to define what self-care means for you, and how to regularly check in and tweak your routine as your needs shift. Because being a creative isn’t just about making great art—it’s about sustaining your whole self while you do it.
 
Timestamps:
00:00: Introduction to Self-Care for Songwriters
01:30: The Importance of Self-Care for Creatives
04:01: Morning Rituals for Songwriters
07:05: The Power of Rest and Play
09:28: Evening Routines and Wind Down Techniques
14:10: Managing Emotional Highs and Lows
20:26: Balancing Productivity with Rest
22:15: Defining Personal Self-Care Practices
 
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel

Mindset Over Everything: Music, Mentorship & Moving Through Fear with Atlanta Cobb

In this episode, Stefani Fryzel sits down with Atlanta Cobb—multi-award-winning, 26x Platinum-selling music executive, keynote speaker, and founder of Music Industry Mentor. With 14 years of experience and a resumé that includes work with Drake, Post Malone, and more, and companies like Sony and Universal, Atlanta has helped artists turn talent into long-term success. Broadcasting from Spain, she shares her wild journey from managing BRIT Award-winning artists to building a global coaching platform that helps creatives grow audiences, monetize their gifts, and develop unstoppable mindsets.
Together, Stefani and Atlanta dive deep into the real challenges artists face—from dealing with burnout and social media overload to building a personal brand that actually feels authentic. Atlanta drops gems about visibility, overcoming fear, building community, and why mindset is everything. She shares how to reframe content creation as storytelling, navigate relationships while growing your career, and take breaks without guilt. It’s a power-packed conversation for any creative who's ready to level up—with self-care leading the way.
 
Timestamps:
00:00: Introduction and Technical Difficulties
04:50: Life in Spain and Power Outages
09:59: Atlanta's Journey into the Music Industry
15:00: The Shift to Music Mentorship
19:59: Coaching Style and Philosophy
24:57: Mindset Blocks in the Creative Process
27:20: Overcoming Resistance and Fear
30:01: Navigating Relationships During Growth
34:15: Building a Personal Brand
37:55: Self-Care Strategies for Creatives
43:45: Controlling Fear and Embracing Growth
 
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel
 
FOLLOW ATLANTA COBB:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicindustrymentor/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@musicindustrymentor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atlanta-cobb/
Website: www.musicindustrymentor.com
 

Creativity & Confidence: Reclaiming Your Creative Power

In this episode, Stefani Fryzel explores how creativity and confidence are deeply connected—and why perfectionism often gets in the way of both. She breaks down the difference between holding high standards and falling into the perfectionist trap that paralyzes progress. If you’ve ever felt frozen by the fear of judgment, you’re not alone—but Stefani reminds us that this fear is often just noise that keeps us small. 
Building confidence doesn’t happen overnight; it’s like a muscle that grows the more you use it. Sometimes, you have to “act as if” until the real thing kicks in. Taking action and putting your work out into the world—before you feel 100% ready—is one of the most powerful things you can do for your creative growth. Art has the power to heal, inspire, and connect us, and none of that happens if you’re hiding behind the scenes. With the right mindset, you can stop waiting and start creating—and that’s where the magic begins.
 
Timestamps:
00:00: Introduction to Creativity and Confidence
01:25: Ditching Perfectionism
07:35: Building Confidence as an Artist
12:44: Personal Struggles with Perfectionism
18:22: Taking Action Before You're Ready
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel

Phoebe Ryan on Redefining Her Career (And Her Happiness): Music, Mental Health & Moving Forward

In this episode of the Self Care for the Creative podcast, singer-songwriter Phoebe Ryan joins us to share her deeply personal journey from artist to full-time songwriter—and everything that came in between. Known for her effervescent pop sound and razor-sharp hooks, Phoebe first found her voice in a Grateful Dead cover band on the Jersey Shore, before going on to write for artists like Britney Spears, The Chainsmokers, Melanie Martinez, Quinn XCII, and more. Her own music and collaborations have amassed millions of streams, platinum records, and global recognition—but behind the scenes, the road wasn’t always easy.
Phoebe opens up about the emotional and physical toll of the music industry, including a bout of Bell’s palsy brought on by extreme stress, and the lessons she learned by stepping away from the spotlight to prioritize her mental health. She talks candidly about navigating bipolar disorder, the importance of medication, and how her definition of success has shifted from chasing hits to finding peace, joy, and creative freedom.
This conversation is a must-listen for emerging artists, creatives, and anyone in the industry who’s felt the pressure to “push through” at the cost of their well-being. Phoebe reminds us that self-care isn’t just personal—it’s essential to sustainable artistry.
 
Timestamps:
00:00:  Introduction
02:59: Phoebe Ryan: Artist to Songwriter Journey
05:59: The Impact of Stress and Mental Health on Creativity
08:58: Navigating Identity and Purpose in the Music Industry
11:45: Advice for Emerging Artists and Songwriters
14:58: Finding Balance and Self-Care in Creativity
17:59: The Role of Medication in Mental Health
20:57: Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Its Treatment
24:04: Protecting Peace as a Woman in the Industry
27:05: Redefining Success in the Music Industry
 
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel
 
FOLLOW PHOEBE RYAN:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoeberyan/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhoebeRyanMusic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRiy7IsqFucvH3Ilj7qf5Rg
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4N874uPqBka1QiCvnCVOtr
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/phoebe-ryan/725170786
 

“Writing for Yourself vs. Writing for Others” – Exploring the Difference Between Personal and Collaborative Projects

In this episode, Stefani Fryzel dives into the delicate balance between writing music for yourself and crafting songs for other artists. She unpacks the emotional layers of songwriting, how to stay authentic in collaborations, and how to navigate the tough decision of whether to keep a song or pitch it. Through personal stories and real-world insights, Stefani shares how adaptability and perspective shifts can open unexpected creative doors.
Writing for yourself allows full creative freedom, while supporting another artist requires vulnerability and creating a safe, open space for collaboration. Staying authentic is key to maintaining your unique voice, and it’s important to remember you don’t have to say yes to every project that comes your way. Giving yourself time and space to decide where your songs belong can be just as valuable as the writing process itself. Collaboration often sparks surprising breakthroughs and growth, and by staying open to pitching songs and learning from different writing styles, you not only expand your craft but also create music that has the power to deeply impact listeners.
Timestamps:
00:00: Introduction to Creative Duality
05:47: The Emotional Landscape of Songwriting
10:21: Authenticity in Collaboration
13:07: Deciding the Fate of Your Songs
18:12: Lessons from Shifting Perspectives
 
LINKS
 
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel
 

Embracing Change: Stepping Into Your Next-Level Calling as an Artist

In this episode, Stefani Fryzel dives into the power of embracing change as both a creative and a human. Sharing personal stories—including her journey into motherhood—Stefani unpacks how transformation fuels artistic evolution. She explores how overcoming fear, letting go of others' opinions, and surrounding yourself with supportive people can unlock new levels of creativity and confidence. Plus, she challenges listeners to confront a fear this week and invites questions for future episodes.
You’ll discover why change is necessary for growth, how to face fear and step outside your comfort zone, and the importance of building a supportive creative circle. Stefani also highlights how letting go of judgment can boost self-confidence and why creativity thrives on reinvention. This episode is a reminder that embracing discomfort is often the key to unlocking your next level—both personally and artistically.
 
Timestamps:
00:00: Embracing Change in 2025
07:30: The Necessity of Change for Growth
13:03: Overcoming Fear and External Opinions
19:25: Engaging with the Audience: Questions and Challenges
 
LINKS
Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator
More info: stefanifryzel.com
Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series
Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1
For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com
Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1
Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120
Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel