MusicMusic Interviews

Enhance Life with Music

Mindy Peterson

Discover how music transforms everyday life – health, happiness, and beyond!

Enhance Life with Music explores practical ways music improves our health, happiness, and wholeness – whether or not you consider yourself a musician. From science and wellness to sports, education, and business, discover how music shapes everyday life – and how you can harness its power to enhance your own.

Play

Open in

30 episodes
weekly
Avg 23 min
English

Episodes 30

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

Today · 12 min
Micro 71: The Surprising Way Music Helps Us Connect with Other People
Discover how music and shared rhythms synchronize our bodies, strengthen social bonds, build trust, and deepen human connection. Learn the surprising science of interpersonal synchrony and music's power to bring us together. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro71 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/EnhanceLifeWithMusic In-episode promo: Sheet Music Direct https://www.sheetmusicdirect.com
October 27 · 40 min
Ep. 245: How Music Helped Win a War – And Brought Soldiers Home, Even Before They Returned; with Dan Del Fiorentino
Discover the surprising ways music shaped World War II and other conflicts – from boosting morale and bringing soldiers closer to home to transforming instrument factories for the war effort. Music historian Dan Del Fiorentino explores music's remarkable power in wartime and shares some of the most impactful stories he's heard first-hand through NAMM's Oral History Program. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode245 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/EnhanceLifeWithMusic In-episode promo: Brain.fm (https://brain.fm/enhance for a free 30-day trial)
October 13 · 8 min
Micro 70: Where Music Fits In the Latest Trend Sweeping All Age Groups
Music offers something that can be difficult to find in our increasingly digital lives: an experience that unfolds in real time, inviting us to slow down, pay attention, and be fully present. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro70 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/EnhanceLifeWithMusic In-episode promo: JAMBAR https://jambar.com/
September 29 · 34 min
Ep. 244: Why Does Music Ease Pain? Understanding the Science; with Joke Bradt, PhD, MT-BC
Many studies have shown music's effectiveness in pain reduction, but researchers haven't always understood HOW and WHY music helps. Dr. Joke Bradt explains the latest science behind music's pain-relieving effects, including three key mechanisms – and how we can maximize music's therapeutic potential. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode244 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/EnhanceLifeWithMusic In-episode promo: Living Well with Dr. Michelle (https://livingwellwithdrmichelle.com/musicenhances) or use Coupon Code musicenhances10 for 10% off. (Or buy on Amazon https://amzn.to/4iaYE1e.)
September 15 · 7 min
Micro 69: Introducing My New Adventure
What if "better" doesn't mean more? What would make life better – not bigger, busier, or more bio-hacked, but more "just right"? I've been exploring a new question… and it's led to a new adventure. I hope you'll join me! Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro69 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/EnhanceLifeWithMusic In-episode promo: Living Well with Dr. Michelle (https://livingwellwithdrmichelle.com/musicenhances) or use Coupon Code musicenhances10 for 10% off. (Or buy on Amazon https://amzn.to/4iaYE1e.) Check out Lagom Life, available now! https://mpetersonmusic.com/lagomlife
September 8 · 33 min
Ep. 243: How Music Changed American Legislation – The Soundtrack of Political Change; with Anna Harwell Celenza, PhD
Most Americans don't realize that music has not only been written in response to politics – it has actually instigated political and legislative change. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the US, Dr. Anna Harwell Celenza reveals surprising stories of music that sparked debates, influenced lawmakers, shaped policy, and changed America. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode243 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: MUD/WTR (https://mudwtr.com/ENHANCELIFE)
September 1 · 8 min
Micro 68: Back to School, Enhanced with Music – Your Fall Resource Guide
Whether you're packing lunches, heading into your first day of teaching, settling into a new practice routine, or simply looking for ways to make this next season a little richer – this curated collection of back-to-school episodes will equip and inspire you to elevate your autumn with music. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro68 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Sheet Music Direct https://www.sheetmusicdirect.com
August 25 · 40 min
Ep. 242: Music, Mood & Depression – Helping Young People Navigate Mental Health; with Sandra Garrido, PhD
The mental health and levels of depression among young people are significant concerns right now. When we're sad, our music listening time can double – but are our music choices making us feel better or worse? Dr. Sandra Garrido explores the complex relationship between music and depression and how music can be used intentionally to help young people understand and regulate their emotions, including through MoodyTunes, her free app designed to support youth mental health through music. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode242 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Living Well with Dr. Michelle (https://livingwellwithdrmichelle.com/musicenhances) or use Coupon Code musicenhances10 for 10% off. (Or buy on Amazon https://amzn.to/4iaYE1e.)
August 18 · 6 min
Micro 67: The Many Lives We Live Through Music
What if one lifetime isn't the only life you get to experience? Discover how music can transport us into other people's worlds, expand our empathy, and reveal surprising things about ourselves along the way. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: MUD/WTR (https://mudwtr.com/ENHANCELIFE)
August 11 · 35 min
Ep. 241: Live vs. Recorded Music – Your Brain Knows the Difference; with Arun Asthagiri
Why do live concerts feel so much more powerful than listening to a recording? When streaming services deliver instant access to recorded music with crystal-clear sound, why do live concerts continue to sell out and rank among the most popular leisure activities globally? Arun Asthagiri shares groundbreaking neuroscience revealing how live music synchronizes our brain waves differently than recorded music – and what that means for our attention, connection, and musical experiences. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode241 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Brain.fm (https://brain.fm/enhance for a free 30-day trial)
August 4 · 9 min
Micro 66: Fred Rogers' Life-Changing Musical Gift
How did music shape Fred Rogers into the beloved host of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood? Discover the remarkable story behind his lifelong relationship with music and the piano that changed his life – and why music doesn't just enrich our lives, it equips us for life. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro66 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: JAMBAR https://jambar.com/
July 28 · 33 min
Ep. 240: When a Parent's Voice Becomes Medicine – Dr. Daisy Fancourt on Music, Premature Babies, and the NICU
Research is revealing that something as simple as a parent's voice can improve a premature baby's vital signs, strengthen parent-child bonding, and even help babies leave the NICU sooner. And the healing doesn't stop with baby. For parents navigating one of the most frightening and helpless experiences imaginable, singing offers mutual benefits along with a meaningful way to comfort and actively care for their child when so much else is out of their hands. Dr. Daisy Fancourt combines cutting-edge science with her own deeply personal experience as the mother of a premature daughter. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode240 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Living Well with Dr. Michelle (https://livingwellwithdrmichelle.com/musicenhances) or use Coupon Code musicenhances10 for 10% off. (Or buy on Amazon https://amzn.to/4iaYE1e.)
July 21 · 6 min
Micro 65: How Music Can Future-Proof Your Career (And Life).mp3
Will the skills you're learning today still matter ten years from now? As AI reshapes the workplace and technology evolves at breakneck speed, the most valuable abilities may not be technical at all. Inspired by Liz Tran's new book, this episode explores why adaptability matters more than ever – and why music training is one of the best ways to cultivate the durable, deeply human skills that can future-proof your career... and your life. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro65 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Sheet Music Direct https://www.sheetmusicdirect.com
July 14 · 37 min
Ep. 239: The Story Behind the Podcast – An Interview with Mindy Peterson
What inspired the Enhance Life with Music podcast? What have I learned after hundreds of conversations with researchers, musicians, physicians, educators, and authors? In this special episode, the tables are turned as I'm interviewed by Ben Klinger of the Piano Whisperer podcast about my musical journey, the mission behind the show, and why I believe music is one of our most powerful – and underappreciated – tools for living well. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode239 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: MUD/WTR (https://mudwtr.com/ENHANCELIFE)
July 7 · 5 min
Micro 64 Welcome, Summer – Fully experience the season with your perfect soundtrack mix (re-run).aup3
Capture the essence of the season and immerse yourself in the magic of summer with your own well-crafted sunshine playlist! From bright, energetic tunes to laid-back island vibes, nostalgic favorites, and patriotic anthems, discover how music can set the tone, elevate your summer adventures, and create lasting memories. Join me as we explore the songs that make summer unforgettable and share your own playlist picks to celebrate the season together. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro64 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096
June 30 · 42 min
Ep. 238: How Music Shaped Miss America 2026 – Cassie Donegan's Story
What helps shape a young person into a national leader? For Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan, music has been a powerful part of the answer. In this episode, Cassie shares how music helped her find her voice, build confidence, and prepare for a life of leadership and service. She also discusses why she's using her national platform to champion music and arts education, and why she believes every child deserves the opportunity to experience its life-changing benefits. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode238 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Living Well with Dr. Michelle (https://livingwellwithdrmichelle.com/musicenhances) or use Coupon Code musicenhances10 for 10% off. (Or buy on Amazon https://amzn.to/4iaYE1e.)
June 23 · 5 min
Micro 63: America the Beautiful – The Song That Almost Became Our National Anthem
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, "America the Beautiful" continues to resonate with Americans across generations – and more than 130 years after it was written. What is the secret to its enduring appeal? Discover why "America the Beautiful" has captured hearts for over a century –and why many people once thought it should be America's national anthem. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro63 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096
June 16 · 50 min
Ep. 237: Can Music Help a Brain with Psychosis Reconnect with Reality? New Research on Psychosis, Prediction, and Recovery; with Philip Corlett, PhD and Adam Christoferson
Mental health struggles have become part of everyday life for many of us, and we're increasingly searching for approaches to healing that go beyond medication alone. In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research from Yale University showing how music-making may help reduce paranoia, hallucinations, and social isolation in people experiencing psychosis. Even if you've never encountered psychosis firsthand, this fascinating conversation offers powerful insights into how music shapes the brain, strengthens human connection, and may hold untapped potential for mental health and healing. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode237 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Brain.fm (https://brain.fm/enhance for a free 30-day trial)
June 9 · 6 min
Micro 62: The Soundtrack of "I Do" – What Wedding Music Says About Us
Wedding season is here, and with every ceremony comes a carefully chosen soundtrack. From classical favorites to recent pop hits, wedding music often reveals something deeply personal about a couple's story, values, identity, and dreams. What does your wedding music say about you? And how may these songs continue to shape memories long after the wedding day is over? The next time you're at a wedding, listen closely – you might learn more about the couple than you realize. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro62 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Living Well with Dr. Michelle (https://livingwellwithdrmichelle.com/musicenhances) or use Coupon Code musicenhances10 for 10% off. (Or buy on Amazon https://amzn.to/4iaYE1e.)
June 2 · 46 min
Ep. 236: Have We Made Music Too Complicated? The Case Against Leaving Music to the Experts; with Joan Koenig
For generations, music was something families simply DID together. Today, many parents feel unqualified to make music with their own children, leaving it to teachers and experts. But what if that shift is costing our kids one of the most powerful tools for developing creativity, empathy, resilience, language, and connection? Acclaimed educator and author Joan Koenig explains why music belongs in every home, why you don't need any musical training to nurture a child's musicality, and how simple, joyful music-making can help children become happier, healthier, and more whole. This conversation (and book) will change your view of music engagement with the littles in your life! Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode236 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ X: https://twitter.com/musicenhances YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enhancelifemusic Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: MUD/WTR (https://mudwtr.com/ENHANCELIFE)

Showing 1–20 of 30 episodes