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