ArtsPerforming ArtsMusic

The Unstoppable Singer

Danielle Tucker

Danielle Tucker is a professional singer, songwriter, and lead vocalist of San Diego-based band The Mighty Untouchables. In The Unstoppable Singer, she sits down with musicians and vocalists of all styles and backgrounds to discuss their careers, the lessons they've learned, and what it takes to be unstoppable in the music business. New episodes every Friday!

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13 episodes
Avg 58 min
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S1 · E10
Wednesday · 58 min
S1 E10 Leonard Patton — Creativity through adversity
How do you future-proof your singing career in an unpredictable world? Start by reimagining what’s possible with your voice, your space, and your momentum. The days of waiting for gigs to return are gone. If you want a sustainable, visible, and purpose-driven career as a singer, adaptability isn’t a bonus—it’s essential. In this episode, you’ll learn how to turn technical overwhelm into creative progress, and why building a simple but strategic livestream studio can unlock both visibility and resilience for your artistry. 🎧 In this episode Innovation often starts with cleaning out your own garage: Reinvention and creative visibility are skills, not circumstances; you can set yourself up even when it feels like everything is on pause. You don’t have to get it perfect—you do have to get started: Embracing a spirit of experimentation, not perfection, is what keeps your career sustainable, especially when technology feels intimidating. Your music community is your greatest resource: Progress is accelerated when artists share what they learn and create space for others to do the same. Impact and income come from consistent action, not just inspiration: Purpose doesn’t have to compete with profitability; sing for the impact you were made for, but build the systems that turn creativity into livelihood. Guest Bio Leonard Patton is a San Diego jazz icon, renowned producer, recording artist, composer, and educator. Adept in everything from musical theater to jazz to classical, he’s a staple of the West Coast music scene, with degrees from SDSU, Cal State San Marcos, and Berklee College of Music. Known for his leadership, creative tenacity, and innovative approaches to performance—even in the face of unprecedented challenges—Leonard Patton exemplifies what it means to build a career that’s both pandemic- and future-proof. Moments worth your time 06:29 How Leonard Patton turned his garage into a creative livestream studio—and what you can learn from his process 10:05 The crucial difference fast, reliable internet makes for live performance—and how to hardwire your space for success 13:01 Why livestreaming is more accessible (and less intimidating) than you think 15:17 How virtual collaboration and platforms like SoundJack are transforming real-time music-making 28:51 The power of sharing strategies and lifting each other up in your local and global music communities 48:15 What keeps you moving forward when career momentum stalls—“What makes you unstoppable?” 55:44 Why every serious singer should set up a home studio…and why now is the best time to take the leap Standout pull-quote “Your voice can build a life. Progress isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about building one piece at a time, even if you’re just starting in your garage.” —Danielle Tucker Ready to build unstoppable momentum with your voice? If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and get clear, strategic feedback on your next best steps, the Singer Momentum Snapshot is for you. It’s a $47 assessment designed specifically for pro-minded singers who want a clear, actionable plan for both visibility and sustainability. Ready to finally know where you stand? Learn more and book your Momentum Snapshot here. For more insights, encouragement, and strategic tools, stay tuned to The Unstoppable Singer Podcast—where your voice becomes the bridge to your future.
S1 · E13
Sep 23, 2022 · 1 hr 2 min
S1 E13 Eve Selis — Leading with love and healing
Your voice is more than sound—it’s a tool for healing, connection, and real impact. We all know music heals, but in uncertain times, it’s easy to wonder if our songs still matter. This episode of The Unstoppable Singer Podcast is a reminder: you’re not behind, your story is powerful, and your artistry can move mountains—not through hustle, but through honest connection and courage. 🎧 In this episode Embrace your truth: The most meaningful songs often come from your own vulnerability and lived experience, not perfection or pretending. Give yourself permission: Inspiration ebbs and flows, and you’re still an artist, even in the quiet seasons—rest is part of the process. Healing starts with showing up: When you lead with your heart, even one brave livestream or a single raw lyric can be the lifeline your audience needs. Community is your catalyst: When you build authentic connections with your listeners, you build not just a fanbase, but a family. About our guest: Eve Selis is a beloved San Diego singer-songwriter whose nine studio albums have touched audiences around the world. A 2019 San Diego Music Hall of Fame inductee, seasoned touring artist, and dynamic educator, Eve Selis has won multiple San Diego Music Awards and built a devoted fan community through both her music and her open-hearted approach to mentorship. Her artistry is driven by the belief that singers are both storytellers and healers. Standout pull-quote: "I just want to put more love and light in the world. That’s all I care about really right now, today." — Eve Sellis Ready to find clarity, direction, and actionable steps for your singing career? Book your Singer Momentum Snapshot—a hands-on assessment that will help you identify your next best moves and build sustainable momentum for your voice and business. It’s your time to lead with your voice and build your future. Learn more and schedule yours here. Let’s build something sustainable. Connect with us—your voice matters.
S1 · E12
Sep 20, 2022 · 1 hr 3 min
S1 E12 Steph Johnson — Harmony through hard times
A soulful conversation on leadership, resilience, and reclaiming your voice—even when crisis upends everything you know. Even for the most seasoned singers, crisis can bring us to our knees—questioning not just our next career move, but our identity, motivation, and sense of belonging. On this episode of The Unstoppable Singer, we go deep with award-winning artist and activist Steph Johnson to discover how music, community, and strategic self-care can transform impossible setbacks into creative breakthroughs and meaningful impact. 🎧 In this episode: Emotional resilience isn’t just a trait—it’s built one intentional morning at a time, especially when leadership feels heavier than ever. When everything shifts and gigs vanish, creative sustainability means finding new ways to serve, connect, and monetize—sometimes beyond the stage. True community is both your safety net and your amplifier: why leaning into visibility and interdependence is essential for professional artists. Letting go of “all or nothing” thinking can help you build a career that honors both artistry and stability—your voice can build a life. Steph Johnson is an award-winning singer, guitarist, and composer, renowned for her work as co-founder and executive director of Voices of Our City Choir, an organization supporting individuals experiencing homelessness through music, connection, and advocacy. With accolades from San Diego Magazine, the San Diego Music Awards, and national recognition on America’s Got Talent, Steph’s journey exemplifies leading with purpose and authenticity—on and off stage. Moments worth your time: 03:36: Reinventing choir connection and community in a pandemic 09:41: Steph’s daily resilience routine—meditation, gratitude, and resetting purpose 13:30: The loss of in-person music, impossible times, and navigating self-kindness 19:03: Recording an album while recovering from illness—and channeling honest emotion 32:01: The “green, yellow, red” system for artists: honoring warning lights before crisis 44:58: Building multiple streams: why sustainability might look different than you expected 01:01:09: What makes you unstoppable? Steph on fulfillment, service, and leading with heart Standout Pull-Quote: “You just keep going, keep going, and then you find all these other reasons to keep going. All those songs are like the musical versions of my reasons for going.” 25:55 Ready to get strategic about your next chapter? The Singer Momentum Snapshot is a powerful $47 assessment designed to illuminate where you are and where your artistry—and business—can go next. Take your momentum seriously and gain tailored, actionable insights. You deserve a career that’s both visible and sustainable. Connect with Danielle Tucker and The Unstoppable Singer community—because your voice is more than sound. Let’s build your future together.
S1 · E11
Sep 20, 2022 · 56 min
S1 E11 Janet Hammer — Building a career with integrity and heart
How do legendary vocalists sustain hundreds of gigs a year—and what can you learn from their grounded approach to visibility, business, and emotional resilience? Every singer faces seasons of uncertainty, but the habits you build in the in-between define your future. On this episode of The Unstoppable Singer Podcast, you'll hear from a true working vocalist who built—and sustained—a massive business as both a musician and a creative entrepreneur. Let Janet Hammer's relentless curiosity, integrity, and gratitude shift your own ideas of what's possible and what really matters for a purpose-driven, resilient career. 🎧 In this episode The most powerful force in booking and getting rebooked isn’t self-promotion—it’s showing unwavering integrity to clients, bandmates, and your own commitments. Visibility isn’t only about “putting yourself out there”; it’s about authentically connecting, nurturing relationships, and finding creative ways forward, even when circumstances change. Business strategy for singers doesn’t have to feel at odds with your artistry—when you run your career with integrity and gratitude, you build a reputation that sustains itself. When setbacks hit, making space for new opportunities (instead of clinging to the old) unlocks reinvention and long-term momentum. Meet our guest Janet Hammer is one of Southern California’s most versatile and hard-working vocalists. With over two decades running a thriving caroling company, flipping 65 houses, and serving as a musical director, Janet’s career has spanned everything from jazz big bands and tribute ensembles to leading choirs of 75 voices. Her hallmark is not just musical talent, but a fiercely entrepreneurial, community-minded spirit that empowers other singers to thrive. Moments worth your time Introducing Janet & her multi-band, multi-career journey: 01:15 Building a caroling company to 436 gigs in 5 weeks—and the keys to sustainable booking: 08:52 Why integrity and gratitude are Janet's top booking strategies (and how they create win-wins with agents and clients): 13:16 The real story behind Janet's business skills—entrepreneurship, selling, and side gigs: 19:56 Opening space for your next season: letting go, reinvention, and resilience: 28:02 What makes you unstoppable? Janet’s unstoppable drive rooted in creativity and love for the process: 34:04 Harmony, ear training, and staying connected to your craft—no matter what: 46:58 Standout pull-quote “If you are known as a person of the highest integrity...you can go to bed at night and know you’ve done a great job. You’re going to get booked back. The word's going to spread. People are going to know you as somebody worth working with.” — Janet Hammer Ready to get real about your next level? If you’re tired of spinning your wheels and want expert eyes on your career strategy, the Singer Momentum Snapshot is here for you. This $47 assessment reveals exactly what’s missing from your visibility, monetization, and leadership plan—and gives you immediate, honest feedback so you can lead with your voice and build real momentum. Connect with us For more conversations that bridge artistry, confidence, and business strategy for singers, subscribe to The Unstoppable Singer Podcast and join our community. Your voice can build a life.
S1 · E9
Sep 20, 2022 · 1 hr 4 min
S1 E9 Lauren Leigh — Rising through setbacks and self-acceptance
Finding Your Voice, Building Your Path: Starting a Sustainable Singing Career When Everything Changes As singers, building a career is rarely neat—but what happens when your momentum meets a world in upheaval? This episode of The Unstoppable Singer Podcast sits in the real questions: how do you release your work, honor your identity, and adjust your strategy when the world shifts under your feet? You’ll hear a grounded, compassionate conversation about creative adaptation, honest rest, and the power of relationships in making a career—and a life—out of your voice. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll discover: Resilience isn’t about pushing through; it’s about letting yourself regroup, reassess, and keep moving in small, meaningful ways. Visibility is a skill you can build—even when plans change or the industry pauses, nurturing your relationships and digital presence matters. The soft skills and self-advocacy you embrace offstage can open doors just as much as your vocal chops. Implementation isn’t hustle for hustle’s sake; it’s about picking the right strategies for your circumstances and honoring your pace. Lauren Leigh Bio Lauren Leigh is a soulful San Diego-based singer-songwriter, bandleader, and frontwoman for Lauren Leigh and the Low Keys, as well as the classic country band Wild Heart. With roots in a musical family and a journey that weaves original work, collaborative projects, and live performance, Lauren’s story is one of compassion, courage, and honest artistry. Through releasing her debut EP “Flare” in the midst of the pandemic, she models the creative resilience and communal spirit at the heart of a sustainable singing career. Moments worth your time 01:27 Releasing a debut EP when the world shuts down 04:47 Creating magic in the studio and the heartbreak of canceled plans 08:20 Learning to pivot: when self-promotion and new strategies meet world events 13:50 Normalizing the productivity rollercoaster and honoring your own process 28:17 Essential networking in a digital-first era: advice for starting a singing career 46:34 Why learning theory and instrument skills expands your opportunities 53:04 What makes you unstoppable? Asking for what you want and finding strength in your support network Pull-Quote “You need to ask for what you want. The worst that can happen is you don’t get it. But if you don’t put it out there… then it’s a definite no.” (53:04) Ready to stop spinning and start building momentum? Take the Singer Momentum Snapshot—an expert, paid $47 assessment designed to help you pinpoint your next steps and build a sustainable path for your voice. Gain practical clarity and actionable direction to move forward—no more guessing. Connect, share your reflections, and find more singer stories at unstoppableSinger.com. Your voice can build a life—let’s build your future together.
S1 · E8
Sep 20, 2022 · 58 min
S1 E8 Carol Hatchett — Presence, energy, and honest movement
Move with more purpose, presence, and power—on any stage and in every song. Stepping on stage is more than hitting notes; it’s about sharing energy, telling your story, and forging connection—sometimes before you sing a single word. In this episode of The Unstoppable Singer, we dig deep into movement with Carol Hatchett, an artist whose career proves that true impact comes from intention, authenticity, and the willingness to stretch beyond your comfort zone. If the thought of “what do I even do with my hands?” has ever crossed your mind, this conversation is for you. 🎧 In this episode, discover: The real secret to stage movement: why it’s less about choreography and more about being present and deliberate—with even the simplest gestures (14:48). How the energy you bring to the room shapes every performance—and why the most memorable artists are relentlessly intentional before stepping on stage (18:18, 52:28). Why everyone (yes, everyone) can become a more compelling mover, and how exploring an alter ego unlocks freedom and confidence on stage (08:27, 25:35). The overlooked truth: sustainability in your singing career comes from preparation, resilience, and the courage to take up space—even when surrounded by “louder” energies (29:16, 53:46). About the Guest Carol Hatchett is a powerhouse singer, dancer, actor, songwriter, and choreographer. Best known as one of Bette Midler’s Harlots, she’s graced stages and screens with legends from Tina Turner and Beyoncé to Sheila E. and Prince. Carol’s career spans film, television, live performance, and beloved original projects like Bella Brown and the Jealous Lovers, where she continues to inspire artists to redefine what’s possible on stage—and within themselves. Moments worth your time 08:27: Can movement really be taught to “non-dancers”? Carol’s empowering answer and her approach to movement workshops for singers. 14:48: The “step touch” trap—and why small, thoughtful movement can be more impactful than big choreography. 18:18: Navigating stage energy as the only woman in the band and the power of claiming your own presence. 22:42: The transformative impact of creating and performing with an alter ego. 29:16: From Chicago grit to LA stages: Carol’s story of boldness, preparation, and self-responsibility. 53:46: What makes you unstoppable? Carol’s wisdom on dedication, self-knowing, and seizing your moment. Pull-quote “The movement doesn’t have to be huge to be impactful. It has to be deliberate, you know? And you have to be... present and connected—then you find that movement that interprets the song, that translates from your physical capability to the audience.” —Carol Hatchett (15:00) Ready to accelerate your visibility, impact, and sustainability as a singer? The Singer Momentum Snapshot is your next step: a focused assessment to uncover your greatest opportunities for growth and clarity in your career—led by Danielle Tucker. Invest in your future with this $47 assessment and move forward with strategy and confidence. Connect with The Unstoppable Singer community for more archived interviews and resources to help you build your future, lead with your voice, and stop hiding. Your next chapter starts now.
S1 · E7
Sep 20, 2022 · 1 hr 6 min
S1 E7: Vangie Gunn-Goodwin — Resilience over hustle
Your voice is more than just a sound—it's the engine for building a visible, sustainable, and meaningful singing career. Here at The Unstoppable Singer Podcast, we're not just talking vocal technique—we’re unpacking how identity, resilience, and strategy move singers from scattered to unstoppable. In this conversation with the incomparable Vangie Gunn-Goodwin, you’ll hear the honest behind-the-scenes perspective of a top-tier pro whose journey spans every stage and session you can imagine. 🎧 In this episode Reclaiming your worth: Why your value isn’t defined by busyness or bookings, but by who you are when the music stops Why real growth in singing—and in career—is about consistent implementation, not overnight wins How sustainable artistry is built: lessons in vocal self-care, adaptability, and using today’s technology to keep your voice visible Reframing rejection: Treating every challenge as a chance to reset and recommit to your voice Vangie Gunn-Goodwin is a powerhouse session singer, songwriter, working vocalist, acclaimed soloist with Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band, voiceover artist, and inspiring teacher. From Disney vocal workshops to blockbuster films and TV, she embodies pro artistry and devoted mentorship—guiding both rising stars and seasoned singers toward confidence, connection, and longevity. Moments worth your time The forced reset: Re-evaluating worth beyond busyness and rediscovering creative joy 03:03 Navigating loss and uncertainty—how to keep purpose when gigs disappear 05:02 Hard-won wisdom for young singers: mastering music literacy, consistent effort, and a “don’t quit” approach 18:43 Parenting and teaching unstoppable artists: building discipline, long-term vision, and balanced encouragement 24:21 The self-care that powers a lasting voice: vocal routines, laryngeal massage, and what truly keeps you vocally fit 35:55 Becoming future-proof: building a viable home studio and tech skills for today’s industry 50:41 What makes you unstoppable? Vangie’s reset on identity, mindset, and the unshakeable will to keep going 20:00 “My value isn’t in my crazy busyness. My value is in me and in my heart and character and love for others and empathy and building relationships. And then the other part of me is music.” Ready to turn your talent into momentum? Get your customized Singer Momentum Snapshot—a practical, high-impact $47 assessment designed to help you cut through the noise, identify your next steps, and finally build a career that feels both purposeful and profitable. Your voice deserves a future. Don’t keep it waiting. Connect with The Unstoppable Singer—lead with your voice, build your future, and remember: you were never meant to do this alone.
S1 · E6
Sep 20, 2022 · 1 hr 1 min
S1 E6: Joshua Taylor — Leading with authenticity
How do you stay rooted in your voice and vision when the music world feels turned upside down? Sometimes the very things that unravel our routines open up the greatest spaces for creative growth. This episode is an honest, empowering conversation about making music—and meaning—no matter what the world throws at you. If you’ve ever wondered how to build forward momentum and real community as a singer in unpredictable times, you’ll want to listen in. 🎧 In this episode: Why visibility is less about platform and more about building authentic connection—even when your performing “stage” has changed 03:29 How uncertainty and adversity can actually clarify your artistic identity and bring your real purpose into focus 13:29 The mindset shift that transforms overwhelm and self-doubt into fuel for sustainable growth, instead of reasons to hide or quit 26:17 Why leaning into your “village” is not a weakness, but your greatest resource as an unstoppable singer 52:38 About our guest: Joshua Taylor is a San Diego-based guitarist, singer-songwriter, and co-founder of the King Taylor Project. Known for his soulful, confessional songwriting and dynamic live performances, Joshua’s career bridges indie touring, session work, and private instruction. He brings a grounded, creative approach to streaming music online, building community on new platforms, and guiding others to honor both their craft and their calling. Moments worth your time: 03:29 — How Twitch is building a new kind of performance “hang out” for musicians and fans 07:27 — Transforming a live rig for home studio streaming: practical advice for minimal, effective setups 13:29 — Facing walls, finding curiosity: using downtime to pivot, learn, and re-invent your art 20:42 — Responsibility, identity, and declaring your artistic voice with boldness 26:17 — Staying true to your “why” when the world pressures you to compromise 35:02 — The inevitable cycles of self-doubt, and the craft that keeps you coming back 58:06 — What makes Joshua unstoppable: It’s not about solving every problem—it’s honoring the momentum that comes from showing up and building in the now Standout pull-quote: “Your pursuit of craft is the thing that will keep you coming back time and again. If you’ve got that in you or you think you might have it, try to foster it… the obstacles hurt, but they never for a second make you think, I gotta quit this.” Ready to get clear and strategic about your singer journey? Amplify your direction, strengths, and next steps with the Singer Momentum Snapshot—a paid $47 assessment designed to help you stop spinning and start building your real future as an artist. Let’s keep building your unstoppable voice—connect with The Unstoppable Singer and keep leading with what only you can bring.
S1 · E5
Sep 20, 2022 · 56 min
S1 E5 Audrey Callahan — Freedom through your voice
Unlock your creative freedom and build a thriving online singing career—on your own terms. Success as a singer isn’t just about having a great voice; it’s about embracing visibility, taking bold steps, and designing a business that actually works for you. In this inspiring episode, you’ll gain practical strategies and honest encouragement to help you stop spinning, start moving, and truly lead with your voice—whether you’re craving more flexibility, new income streams, or simply more confidence in your creative path. 🎧 In this episode Discover why you only need a small, engaged fanbase to create meaningful, sustainable income—and how to set up systems now so you’re ready for abundance. Reframe “visibility” as a learned skill, not just a gut-wrenching performance, and begin to leverage platforms and self-produced content in ways that feel authentic and manageable. Own your business as much as your art: learn how treating your singing career with patience, organization, and consistent professional presence can generate more opportunities than you ever thought possible. Embrace action as the ultimate confidence-builder—every step, even the scary ones, grows your capacity for impact. About Audrey Callahan Audrey Callahan is a Southern California singer-songwriter whose pop-infused, motivational music has touched audiences worldwide in movies, video games, and theme parks. An expert session vocalist and creative entrepreneur, Audrey has customized her career for freedom—singing for film, traveling full-time, and building a loyal online following. Audrey’s journey is proof that identity, strategy, and emotional honesty can fuel an unstoppable, fulfilling singing life. Moments worth your time 01:27: How Audrey shifted from cover bands to finding endless session singing opportunities online 06:51: Designing a location-independent singing career for true freedom and flexibility 09:29: Building multiple income streams, self-producing quality content, and why “good enough” gets you started 13:28: The power of treating your singing as a business—communication, follow-ups, and what sets you apart 14:32: Audrey’s practical income blueprint: Patreon, session singing platforms, and the underestimated value of a small but mighty fanbase 28:48: Cultivating professional relationships and showing up for your career—every single day 36:07: “What makes you unstoppable?”—Audrey shares her approach to facing (and embracing) every fear, one step at a time Standout pull-quote: “You just gotta do it. Everything that is scary in life is usually the most rewarding. So I try to make it a habit to scare myself as much as possible and just say yes to all the scary things.” 36:07 Ready to see exactly where your momentum stands—and what’s keeping you from building the future your voice deserves? Book your Singer Momentum Snapshot (only $47) and get a tailored assessment plus concrete action steps to move your singing vision forward. Stay connected—your voice can build a life.
S1 · E4
Sep 20, 2022 · 1 hr 2 min
S1 E4: Carissa Lynn Renner — Embracing discomfort to find your voice
Your voice can lead change—once you dare to be seen and heard, even when the world feels unsteady. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by uncertainty, unseen as a singer, or doubted your place in a shifting musical landscape, this episode will meet you right where you are. Join The Unstoppable Singer and Carissa Lynn Renner for a conversation about boundaries, confidence, and the deep connection between healing and vocal expression—a timely reminder that your artistry can fuel both purpose and momentum. 🎧 In this episode: Boundaries aren’t blocks—they are the foundation for consistent creativity and emotional resilience. Confidence isn’t just for the stage; it’s the key to being seen, heard, and building a sustainable artistic identity. Visibility is a muscle, and embracing vulnerability (online and off) transforms discomfort into growth. Progress starts with honest self-reflection; healing your inner world creates ripples that reach your audience and your industry. About the Guest: Carissa Lynn Renner is a professional vocalist, accomplished vocal coach, and creative mentor. Her mission is to build a happier, healthier, and more connected world through the power of the human voice. Carissa is deeply passionate about helping singers find true confidence, craft their unique artistic identity, and show up fearlessly on any stage—virtual or real. Moments worth your time: 01:34 — Carissa on finding space for clarity, healing, and new creative rhythms during crisis 06:15 — Why ruthlessly intentional boundaries are a radical act of self-care for singers 13:16 — The “great passaggio”: Connecting cultural discomfort to the journey between vocal registers 19:32 — Reframing marketing for singers: how authentic connection trumps perfection 28:30 — The urgent importance of using your voice for good, even (and especially) when the world is heavy 34:40 — Singing as healing: The science behind voice, trauma, and belonging 46:26 — [What makes you unstoppable?] Carissa on acknowledging hard truths, slowing down, and choosing to feel fully Pull-quote: “We need your voice so desperately right now and down the road. Until everyone gets a voice, the people who have them need to be able to use them for good and to feel safe and empowered to do that.” 28:30 Curious what’s really holding you back from visibility, creative momentum, or the next level of your singing career? Step into the Singer Momentum Snapshot—a personalized assessment from The Unstoppable Singer to help you uncover your roadblocks and craft a path forward. Invest $47 to get clear on your next move. Ready to stop spinning and start building your future? Connect with us at The Unstoppable Singer—where your voice is more than sound.
S1 · E3
Sep 20, 2022 · 57 min
S1 E3: Mariela Contreras — Bringing your full self to your artistry
Unlock your most authentic artistry by embracing your voice, your story, and the power of creative reinvention. Every singer’s path is uniquely complex—filled with seasons where you’re learning, performing, teaching, and sometimes simply searching for your sound. In this conversation, Mariela Contreras gets honest about integrating identity and strategy, facing down creative doubts, and finding momentum by staying deeply connected to both artistry and education. If you’re ready to carve out a purposeful, sustainable future as an artist, these insights will meet you where you are. 🎧 In this episode: Artistic momentum isn’t about perpetual busyness—it’s about coming home to your voice and giving yourself permission to experiment, pause, and grow. Breaking the “rules” around artistry—including language, genre, and process—sparks originality and new avenues for self-expression. True creative consistency comes from structure with room for freedom, not rigid routines or comparison traps. Building a life with your voice is about community, courage, and the willingness to step into new skills (from recording tech to bilingual songwriting) even when it feels unfamiliar. About Mariela Contreras: Bilingual vocalist and educator Mariela Contreras is based in San Diego, where she leads Latin pop, R&B, and jazz projects and brings music and yoga together for children through her organization, Musayo. Mariela has opened for international artists like Ellie Guerra, Maná, and Selena Gomez, and continues to evolve her artistry while empowering the next generation of creatives. Moments worth your time: 03:00: Creating Musayo—music, arts, and yoga for kids as a hands-on gateway to music theory 10:03: Returning to songwriting and vocal self-work after a chapter of intense study 13:09: Courageously recording and listening to yourself—how to build real vocal awareness 28:09: Claiming bilingual expression in songwriting and tearing down creative barriers 41:19: Mariela’s advice to emerging singers: play an instrument, journal, collaborate, and learn from everyone 45:07: Taking risks, building your support network, and letting mentorship shape your artistry 50:00: What makes you unstoppable?: Valuing your unique journey, staying open to growth, and creating community through music Standout pull-quote: "Creativity should have no boundaries when it comes to expressing what's in your heart. It doesn't matter what language it is—just start creating." 33:03 Ready for a grounded check-in on your career, strategy, and artistry? The Singer Momentum Snapshot is a practical $47 assessment designed to help you see where you stand, spot opportunities for growth, and take confident next steps—because your voice is ready to build a life. Connect with The Unstoppable Singer community and be reminded: you’re not behind. Let’s build your future—together.
S1 · E2
Sep 20, 2022 · 46 min
S1 E2: Whitney Shay — Crafting momentum through resilience
How do you build resilience, visibility, and creative momentum in an unpredictable world? Whitney Shay proves it starts with a bold voice, a willingness to adapt, and a heart for connection. When setbacks strike, especially for performing artists, it’s easy to feel untethered. This episode brings you honest, practical perspective from a singer who’s weathered applause and uncertainty alike, blending purpose, consistency, and craft. Whitney Shay’s journey is a playbook for anyone ready to trade isolation and comparison for real implementation, clarity, and growth. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll discover: Why your reputation, relationships, and work ethic matter more than overnight wins—or even immense natural talent. How embracing the full business of music (not just the glamour) leads to creative sustainability and career momentum. The powerful reframe that every “random” gig, hard lesson, and odd opportunity is really a stepping stone to finding your voice and building true visibility. Why adaptability and kindness—to yourself and others—aren’t optional extras but essential for modern artists. About Whitney Shay: Whitney Shay is a four-time San Diego Music Award winner, celebrated for her dynamic voice and electrifying performances across the U.S., Europe, and South America. With a Billboard #1 blues album, nominations from the Blues Music Awards, placements on major TV networks, and a reputation as a future blues icon, Whitney’s artistry is matched only by her fierce commitment to purpose, growth, and lifting others through her craft. Moments worth your time [Creating during crisis: Home projects, collaboration, and digital bands](00:02:26](/timestamps/146) [Reflection, creative headspace, and choosing kindness amidst uncertainty](00:04:58](/timestamps/298) [Finding balance when momentum halts and opportunities shift](00:10:19](/timestamps/619) [From children’s theater to international touring: The journey to sustainability](00:18:01](/timestamps/1081) [Why professionalism, reliability, and learning every facet of music matter](00:24:09](/timestamps/1449) ["What makes you unstoppable?" Whitney on grit, adaptability, and building her own opportunities](00:24:52](/timestamps/1492) [Songwriting evolution, collaboration, and the essential skills singers overlook](00:39:17](/timestamps/2357) “There’s a lot of talented people, but not everybody has that drive…that is something that will really help you progress, because it’s a hard life if you want to make it a living as a musician.” — Whitney Shay Ready to clarify your direction and build sustainable momentum as a singer? Take the Singer Momentum Snapshot, Danielle Tucker’s signature career assessment for vocalists. For $47, get honest, actionable insight into your performance, promotion, and growth path—so you can build your future with confidence and strategy. Connect with us and discover more from The Unstoppable Singer Podcast—your voice is more than sound. Your voice can build a life.
S1 · E1
Jul 28, 2022 · 51 min
S1 E1: Rebecca Jade — Trusting your creative drive through uncertainty
What if trusting your unique creative impulse is the key to true momentum—even when the world turns upside down? Singers chasing “next level” often look for answers outside themselves. But in this episode, Rebecca Jade invites us to look inward: to rewrite the script on what progress means, to honor our seasons both busy and quiet, and to build a music life rooted in generosity and self-discovery. This conversation is about more than surviving tough times—it’s about coming home to your voice, your community, and your unstoppable spirit. 🎧 In this episode: - Growth happens when we embrace uncertainty and keep moving anyway - The next step reveals itself when you let go of perfect plans - Momentum isn’t about forcing—it's about trusting your creative process - You build a reputation not with big leaps, but small acts of integrity About Rebecca Jade: Hailing from San Diego, Rebecca Jade is an award-winning singer and songwriter, known for her soulful artistry and versatility. She’s sung with legends like Sheila E. and Elton John, appeared on the Grammy salute to Prince, and inspired audiences across genres. What sets her apart for fellow singers is not just her resume, but her heart for mentorship, community-building, and showing up for the music—in every season. Moments worth your time: 00:00 — Welcoming Rebecca Jade and the power of creative resilience 04:44 — Co-creating remotely: adapting to a new musical reality 13:08 — Taking ownership and finding opportunities in downtime 26:20 — Rebecca’s musical roots, mentorship, and early career pivots 38:07 — How showing up (when no one’s watching) leads to breakthrough gigs 45:06 — "What makes you unstoppable?" — Rebecca’s answer 💬 “If you want it enough, you’ll find a way—no matter what’s happening around you.” — Rebecca Jade Your next step: Ready to see exactly where your own momentum is leaking? The Singer Momentum Snapshot is an assessment that pinpoints which of the Five Momentum Systems™ need your attention next—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Take a clear-eyed look at what’s truly holding you back, and let your next step reveal itself. Connect: Instagram & TikTok @unstoppablesinger #TheUnstoppableSinger #RebeccaJade #MomentumSystems #SingingCareer

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