Ep. 83: Singers Scaries & Seasonal Shifts

Hello, fabulous performer. Today, I’m just hitting record and sharing from the heart. Physically, mentally, emotionally — I am exhausted. And while production quality matters, some of the most powerful, transformational tools in life come from seeing people walk the talk. I want you to know — so much of what I share here on the podcast, I’m living it out right alongside you.

I’m still a passionate performer myself, so grab a cup of coffee, pop this episode in your ear holes as you take a walk, and let’s figure this thing out together.

The Pressure to Show Up

Maybe I should’ve titled this episode “Sunday Scaries,” but, well… it’s not Sunday. Instead, let’s call it Singer Scaries. Lately, here in Newport News, Virginia, we’re finally settling into consistent fall temperatures. Highs in the 50s and 60s, cooler air, a lot of rain — and, of course, allergy season.

All of this takes a toll. My clients have been canceling or switching to online lessons, my kids have been home sick, and I’m juggling life, teaching, and performing. I know many of you feel the same: deciding whether to show up to rehearsal, a gig, or letting your understudy go on. It’s a lot of pressure, and it comes with being a passionate performer.

And then there’s the personal stuff. I’m 45, in perimenopause, and sometimes my voice feels dry. A lot of times, what shows up in our voices — phlegm, dryness, fatigue — is our body saying, “Hey, I need something.” Hydration, rest, nutrition — these aren’t luxuries; they’re essentials for the living instrument that is your body and your voice.

Paying Attention to the Body & Mind

Seasonal changes affect more than just your voice. Shorter daylight, cooler temps, shifting hormone levels — all of this impacts energy and mood. I’ve been noticing this firsthand, especially as I juggle multiple gigs, my teaching business, and life in general.

The truth? There’s a lot of wisdom in our bodies, if we’re willing to listen. Feeling resistance, fatigue, or anxiety isn’t a weakness — it’s a signal. The next right step is often just to start, even if motivation is low.

Purposeful Action Over Perfection

Here’s what helped me today: I moved with purpose. Instead of rushing through my morning, I slowed down during my walk, noticed the colors of the leaves, felt my senses wake up, and even embraced wash day (yes, the curls are popping!). I made a meal in the crockpot, took intentional breaths, and just started.

Sometimes starting is all it takes. One action leads to another. Maybe that means:

• Doing a simple vocal warm-up

• Singing a song you love (not on your set list)

• Taking a purposeful break — even just two minutes to relax your face and jaw

• Dancing, reading, knitting, cooking, or moving your body

The key is: something is better than nothing.

Protecting Joy While Doing the Work

Passion alone won’t get the job done. Discipline matters. But passion? That’s the deep desire to be seen, to create, to connect. Even on low-energy days, we can protect the joy while still showing up. Pausing for gratitude, noticing progress in our creative process, and giving ourselves permission to move with purpose keeps us from burning out.

Sometimes that looks like stepping away from social media — without announcements or disclaimers. Just doing what you need to show up in ways that matter most.

The Takeaway

If you’re having a “singer scary” day, remember: start somewhere. One step begets another. Celebrate the small wins. Listen to your body. Protect your joy. And know that showing up doesn’t have to mean pushing through exhaustion — it can mean moving thoughtfully, intentionally, and with care for yourself and your voice.

We’ve got this. Big deep breath in… exhale. You are exactly where you need to be.