Curious Vocalists

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, we step into the studio with Kimberly Shires, a classically trained clarinetist turned independent music producer, audio engineer, and owner of Hear Me Roar Studios. Kimberly shares powerful insights from her recent festival panel about breaking down technical barriers and eliminating the gatekeeping that often leaves artists feeling lost during the production process.
 
We explore why walking into a session relying solely on emotion can lead to miscommunication, as human feelings are entirely unique. Kimberly explains how artists can use reference tracks as a translation tool to dissect songs, identify specific sonic elements, and communicate effectively with engineers without needing to know complex technical jargon. The conversation also covers practical studio preparation—from the necessity of practicing with a metronome and marking breathing points on lyric sheets, to the psychological benefits of fixed-price recording sessions that eliminate the pressure of the clock.
 
Finally, Kimberly discusses the realisation that led her to launch Hear Me Roar Studios as a dedicated, welcoming environment for women, queer, and gender-expansive creators. Describing her role as "part music producer and part empowerment," Kimberly explains why a successful recording session often requires the skills of a therapist—building deep trust, reading an artist's hesitation, creating a space where it is safe to say "no," and ultimately helping vocalists access a level of confidence and power they never knew they possessed.
 
Key Topics
Studio environment barriers and solutions
Using reference tracks to communicate sound
Empowering artists through language and collaboration
 
Chapters
00:00 Empowering Artists in the Studio
02:57 Navigating Emotions and Reference Tracks
06:03 How to Communicate Vision and Sound
10:17 How to Keep the Vision You Want for A Song
14:34 Co-Creation Rather Than Blind Trust
18:15 Bringing Out the Best in Reserved Artists
22:15 Navigating Creative Pressure
22:41 Preparing for A Studio Session
25:13 Mastering Timing and Rhythm
26:46 Prep for Voice and Lyrics Performance
30:26 No Music Theory Knowledge? - No Problem
31:36 The Journey to Empowerment in Music Production
34:21 The Studio As A Safe Space for Connection and Creation
36:41 Get In Touch With Kimberly
 
Mentions:
Kimberly’s Studio: hearmeroarstudio.com 
Follow her on Instagram: instagram.com/hearmeroarstudio/
Kimberly’s Free Guide to Recording Vocals From Home: https://hearmeroarstudio.com/free-vocal-guide
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, life coach Tom Fogg joins a relaxed, conversational, yet profound exploration of the the relationship between truth, authenticity, and creativity. Rather than a structured interview, this is an open dialogue centred on the concept of truth and its foundational role in maintaining creative wellbeing. They discuss practical techniques for embracing self-compassion, overcoming creative blocks, and living in harmony with the natural flow of life, inspired by philosophies like Taoism.
The conversation is honest, personal and explores psychologically grounded ways to navigate the inner critic we all have, moving past superficial solutions to examine what happens when we face our internal voices with absolute honesty.
This episode offers an unhurried, substantial look into the psyche, making it a perfect match for those who appreciate meaningful, psychological exploration rather than a bit of light listening.
 
Key Topics
The relationship between truth and creativity
The three capabilities of autonomy: awareness, spontaneity, intimacy
Techniques for entering flow state and overcoming creative blocks
The role of self-compassion and acceptance in artistic work
The influence of Taoism and the Tao Te Ching on creative practice
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Creativity
05:21 Navigating the Creative Process
13:06 How Creativity Can Be Stifled as a Child
18:25 Overcoming Stigmas Around Being an Artist
21:56 Our Thoughts as Self-inflicted Suffering
26:30 Allowing Creativity Rather Than Forcing It
31:41 Compassionate Living and Acceptance
33:06 Navigating Creative Blocks
36:33 Lower Your Expectations But Never Your Standards
42:24 Confronting the Inner Critic
44:56 The Power of Sharing Your Truth
49:16 The Courage to Share
 
Resources Mentioned:
The Games People Play - Book by Eric Burn
The Creative Act - Book by Rick Rubin
The Tao Te Ching - Book (translation by Stephen Mitchell)
Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Book by Susan Jeffers
Dr. K’s The Healthy Gamer podcast - Episode title: Your Standards are Way Higher Than They Should Be
The Blind Boy Podcast
Tetragrammaton - Rick Rubin’s Podcast 
 
Get in contact with Tom: Instagram - instagram.com/tomfoggcoach/
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

What happens when the music stops and it is time to talk to the crowd? For many musicians and vocalists, bridging the gap between songs is the most nerve-racking part of the show. In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace sits down with comedian, author, and comedy workshop leader Logan Murray—who has taught the likes of household names like Greg Davies and Rhod Gilbert.
Logan shares invaluable insights into transforming performance anxiety into focused energy, treating the audience like your mates, and tapping into the power of the conversational afterthought. Whether you are an introverted performer looking to connect more naturally or someone looking to inject a bit of playful humour into your set, this conversation explores how to get out of your own head and step into the flow zone.
To learn more about Logan's work, books, and upcoming creativity workshops, visit his regular comedy hubs or check out his sessions at the Museum of Comedy in London.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Stage Nerves and Performance Anxiety
04:54 Connecting with the Audience: Treating Them as Friends
08:12 The Art of Conversation in Performance
11:31 Rehearsed vs Spontaneous
12:14 The Importance of Playfulness in Performance
17:13 Workshop Techniques To Find Your Inner Idiot
21:05 All Comedy is A Reaction
23:01 The Impact of Nutrition on Performance
25:39 How much to Prepare for Audience Interaction
27:31 Logan's Various Comedy Workshops
29:03 How to Turn Fear into Playfulness
34:58 The Balance of Stupidity and Cleverness in Comedy
39:31 The Importance of Play in Art and Performance
39:59 Exploring Logan's Creative Ventures
42:02 The Quickfire Round
 
Mentions/ Resources:
Info on Logan’s comedy courses: https://loganmurray.com/news
Logan’s Book: Get Started in Stand-Up Comedy - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Started-Stand-Up-Comedy-Teach-Yourself/dp/1473607183
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In the second half of this special two-part series on the compelling speaking voice, the focus shifts from the physical foundations of voice to the art of delivery and leadership presence. This episode explores how to move beyond a monotone or repetitive delivery to find a voice that commands authority while maintaining a genuine connection with your audience.
Through practical exercises and mindset shifts, the discussion covers:
 
Pitch Variety and Emotional Truth: Learning to use intentional inflection to avoid the repetitive patterns of news reporting and ensure your message lands with gravitas.
Projection and Pacing: How to fill a room without shouting by utilising supported breath and forward resonance.
The Power of the Pause: Embracing silence to create tension, show self-assuredness, and allow your audience to lean in.
The Inner Game: Mindset tools to shift from self-judgment to a focus on service, allowing for a magnetic combination of vulnerability and strength.
 
Whether you are introducing a song on stage, leading a rehearsal, or presenting in a professional setting, these tools are designed to help you integrate your technical skills with a grounded, authentic presence.
 
Chapters
00:00 Foundations of Authentic Speaking
00:36 Exploring Pitch and Variety
06:38 Projection and Pacing Techniques
16:31 The Power of Pauses
21:29 Building Confidence and Stage Presence
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this first instalment of a special two-part series, Curious Vocalists shifts the spotlight from the singing voice to the speaking voice. While musicians spend countless hours perfecting their melodies, the words spoken between songs—introductions, workshop instructions, and audience gratitude—are just as vital for establishing authority and authentic connection.
Grace guides you through the essential physical pillars of a confident stage presence: posture, breath, and resonance. This episode is designed to be interactive, featuring three specific exercises you can perform in real-time to reset your posture, anchor your breath for steady delivery, and find your natural resonant "home" voice. Learn how to stop speaking from the throat and start commanding the room with a tone that is both warm and authoritative.
In this episode, you will:
Learn a 45-second posture reset to instantly feel more powerful on stage.
Discover how to avoid speaking on residual air by using a supported breath anchor.
Practice finding your resonant chest tone to move away from nervous, thin, or throat-based speaking.
Explore the difference between performing a persona and delivering your natural, unencumbered voice with intention.
Featured Exercises:
Exercise 1: Posture Reset (03:31)
Exercise 2: Breath Anchor (07:46)
Exercise 3: Finding Your Resonant Home Voice (19.43)
 
Takeaways
Good posture and diaphragmatic breathing are essential for confident speaking.
Recording yourself helps identify and correct breathing habits.
Engaging the body through exercises like yoga and handstands reduces tension.
Your speaking voice starts in your body, not your throat.
Hum and vocal warm-ups stimulate nitric oxide and improve resonance.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Confident Speaking
01:25 Engaging the Diaphragm and Body Awareness
06:41 Exercises for Better Breath Support
11:11 Why Handstands Help Your Voice
14:38 Tone, Resonance and Authenticity
 
Resources
Episode 25 For The Anxious Performer: Nervous System Regulation with Emily Kennedy-Barnes - Curious Vocalists Episode 25 For The Anxious Performer
More info on the health benefits of humming, nitric oxide and its roles in your health - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVoGbaq8xos
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, RTT Practitioner and Hypnotherapist Laura Paton joins the show to de-mystify the world of hypnotherapy. She clarifies that the process is far from the freaky stereotypes of swinging clocks or losing consciousness; instead, it is a grounded method of relaxing the nervous system where the individual remains fully in control. The conversation explores how subconscious beliefs dictate our confidence and how to handle those moments when you feel like you’re in so much of a negative ‘funk’ that you BECOME the funk! Laura shares specific somatic techniques to shift out of those heavy mental states, offering performers practical ways to move through self-doubt and find their most authentic voice.
 
Key Topics
What is Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) and how it works
The role of subconscious beliefs in self-identity and confidence
Techniques for overcoming performance anxiety and self-doubt
The importance of self-acceptance and somatic practices in healing
How RTT can help creatives and performers find their authentic voice
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Laura Paton
03:47 Exploring Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT)
12:01 The Process of RTT and Client Experience
13:56 How Unpicking Past Experiences Can Help Your Identity as a Performer
18:45 Navigating Identity and Self-Worth in Creativity
26:50 The Impact of COVID-19 on Personal Growth
30:02 Finding Courage and Passion in Creativity
31:40 Turning a Negative Funk into Creative Flow
40:48 Future Projects and the Power of Audio Therapy
 
Resources/ Mentions
Laura Paton, RTT Hypnotherapist on Instagram - instagram.com/rtthypnotherapist/
Tree of Life Centre in Hove - www.tolcentre.com/
Muswell Health Centre in North London - www.muswellhealth.uk/
Dr Gabor Mate 3-7-8 breathing
Marisa Peer - the founder of the Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) method - https://marisapeer.com/
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

Why does the voice tighten just when we need it most? In this episode, we sit down with Mind-Body Neuroscientist and Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner Emily Kennedy-Barnes to decode the physiological override that happens on stage.
 
Emily offers practical exercises beyond basic stress management to explore how neuroscience and somatic experiencing can transform your relationship with your instrument. Emily explains that stage anxiety is a survival response that can bypass your technical training. Instead of traditional poses, we explore somatic yoga as a tool for interoception—learning to understand the signals your body sends to your brain.
 
Whether you’re a semi-professional or a seasoned pro, this conversation offers a valuable insight into embodiment and nervous system regulation. Try these subtle, practical exercises backstage or in the wings before show to ensure your biology works with you rather than against you.
 
Key Topics
Nervous system and performance
Somatic experiencing and trauma release
Neuroscience and movement connection
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Somatic Practices
02:55 Understanding Somatic Experiencing and Yoga
06:33 The Body-Mind Connection Explained
08:58 The Impact of Past Experiences on Performance
10:33 Stage Nerves on a Biological Level
14:32 Techniques to Manage Performance Anxiety
19:14 Practical Exercises for Nervous System Regulation
27:36 Exploring the Lymphatic System and Circulation
37:28 Breathwork for Singing with Unregulated Nervous System
41:08 How to Be a More Grounded Performer
47:33 Recovery Strategies After Performances
52:18 Get In Touch with Emily
 
Mentions:
Emily Kennedy-Barnes Instagram - www.instagram.com/somaticyogatherapist/
Emily’s Website: www.somaticyogatherapist.co.uk
Emily’s Email - emily@somaticyogatherapist.co.uk
The Tree of Life Centre, Brighton - https://www.tolcentre.com/
 
Extra Info on today's Guest:
Emily has a paper currently in press at BJPsych Open -a feasibility randomised controlled trial of somatic yoga therapy for functional neurological disorder, conducted within the NEUROADS Lab at King’s College London. - The first study of its kind!
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

How do you break through the old habits and creative "scar tissue" that keep you stuck? In this episode, Grace sits down with award-winning singer-songwriter, author, vocal coach, and TEDx speaker Emma G.
After surviving 10 brain surgeries by age 14, Emma didn't just find a way to live—she found a way to rewrite her narrative through music. They discuss her new book, Mental Health Sounds Like This, and take a close look into cognitive reframing. Emma explains how songwriting isn’t just about making music; it’s a neuroscientific tool for moving past trauma, silencing self-sabotage, and reclaiming your voice.
If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your lyrics or paralysed by your past, this conversation will show you how to use your voice as a precision tool for empowerment and self-discovery.
 
Key Topics
Music as a tool for cognitive reframing
The impact of music on brain development after trauma
Using songwriting to process emotions and trauma
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emma G's Journey
02:53 The Healing Power of Music
05:53 Neuroscience of Music and Emotion
08:23 Transforming Trauma into Growth
10:49 The Five Stages of Songwriting for Healing
13:54 Using Your Voice as a Tool for Empowerment
16:51 Navigating Emotions and Self-Identity
19:19 Understanding Self-Sabotage and Growth
25:38 Exploring Emotions Through Writing
28:20 Creating a Safe Space for Self-Expression
30:48 Redefining Self-Worth Beyond Productivity
33:54 Learning from Indigenous Cultures
35:58 Taking Control of Your Narrative
38:11 Using Music as a Tool for Self-Discovery
41:43 The Importance of Authentic Expression
45:32 Building Your Own Musical Affirmations
 
Resources and Mentions:
Krav Maga - a form of self defence
Emma G's Website - https://emmagmusic.com
Mental Health Sounds Like This (Book) - https://shorturl.at/BBn4y
https://www.instagram.com/emmagmusic/
My Episode on Meredith Miller’s 5 Archetypes of Self-Sabotage as mentioned: https://admin5.podbean.com/gracehancockmusic/stats/episodes
Meredith Miller’s website: https://www.innerintegration.com/
Kimberly Shires - founder of Hear Me Roar Studios  - music production for women and non-binary Artists:  https://hearmeroarstudio.com/
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

Performing every night isn't just an art—it’s an athletic feat. In this solo episode, Grace talks about the rigorous vocal demands of life as a cruise ship performer, sharing the exact strategies she uses to maintain peak stamina while on the go.
Whether you’re a professional touring artist or an aspiring singer, this episode serves as a masterclass in vocal longevity. Grace walks you through her personal daily routine, providing live demonstrations of Targeted Warm-Ups to activate every register and faucet of your voice. She gives tips on the mechanics of placement, hydration, breath support, and active vocal injury prevention. Stay listening to the end for a sing along of Grace’s exercise and warm up routine inspired by the vocal runs and riffs of Tori Kelly.
 
Key Topics
Vocal stamina and longevity
Hydration and nutrition for singers
Warm-up and cool-down routines
Breathing techniques and posture
 
Takeaways
Hydrate constantly and eat nourishing meals to support vocal health.
Use strategic napping and rest to recover during demanding gigs.
Warm up your voice with gentle swoops and lip trills before singing.
Practice diaphragmatic breathing to improve stamina and reduce strain.
Maintain overall fitness and flexibility through yoga and stretching.
Avoid excessive throat clearing and coughing to prevent vocal damage.
Use proper vocal placement and resonance to reduce strain.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Vocal Stamina
02:18 Hydration and Nutrition for Singers
04:53 The Importance of Vocal Warm-ups
08:06 Movement and Fitness in Singing
10:56 Breathing Techniques for Singers
13:49 Performance Techniques and Vocal Control
17:05 Post-Performance Care and Warm Down
19:34 Vocal Exercises and Practical Tips
 
Mentions:
Tori Kelly’s version of ‘PYT’ by Michael Jackson and the runs I base my exercise routines off of: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZCCPE-b1BQ
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Grace's Instagram
Grace's Facebook
 

Are you trapped in your own head when you’re on stage? You’re hitting the notes and wearing the smile, but internally, you’re calculating the audience's reaction rather than feeling the music.
In today’s episode, Grace goes deep into the archives of your mind to understand why the flow state feels so elusive for many vocalists. Using Meredith Miller’s transformative framework from her course, Ending Self-Sabotage, Grace explores the five primitive archetypes we develop in childhood to navigate stress:
The Pleaser — > becomes the Boundary Setter (note: I said ‘Runner’ becomes the Boundary Setter in the recording. This was an ERROR)
The Rationaliser — > becomes the Balanced Thinker
The Runner
The Aggressor
The Eraser
The heart of the episode focuses on The Pleaser and The Rationaliser—the archetypes that turns the piano into a "beast" and the stage into a courtroom. Grace shares her own journey from the rigid, "pleasing" stages of cruise ship life to finding a more grounded, authentic connection to music through teaching and boundary-setting.
Whether you’re a professional struggling with perfectionism or a student trying to trust your intuition, this episode is a roadmap to moving from a "Primitive" survival mode to becoming a Balanced Thinker and a Healthy Boundary Setter on stage and improving your relationship with your music.
Chapters
00:00 The 5 Primitive Archetypes
08:43 How Rationalisers and Pleasers are Hindered on Stage
10:41 Famous Artists and Their Motives to Perform
17:33 How Boundaries and Balanced Thinking Improves Your Singing
25:00 Other Signs You're a Rationaliser or Pleaser in Your Music
30:03 Questions to Reflect On
 
References & Resources:
The framework of the 5 Primitive/Immature Archetypes (Pleaser, Rationaliser, Runner, Aggressor, Eraser) and their Mature counterparts mentioned in this episode is based on the teachings from the course Ending Self-Sabotage by Meredith Miller.
For those interested in exploring these archetypes further, I highly recommend checking out her work at www.innerintegration.com
 
The Link to the course ‘Ending Self-Sabotage’: https://www.innerintegration.com/store/PSAHd5gz
 
Note: This podcast is a personal commentary and exploration of these concepts as they apply to vocal pedagogy and is not an official representation of the original course material.
 
Further Listening/reading: Meredith’s Podcast: Inner Integration Podcast - www.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prisoners-of-childhood-a-commentary-on-alice/id1418633395?i=1000452245309 - Prisoners of Childhood: A commentary on Alice Miller’s The Drama of the Gifted Child
Book: Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Susan Jeffers
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Grace's Instagram
Grace's Facebook