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

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

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

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/

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

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

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

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