Episode 370 - Shalaine Stebner on Family, Music, and Mental Health Awareness

Show Notes:Compassion and Understanding: • Emphasis on compassion related to people's behavior. • Connection between outbursts and long-term personal issues. • Potential societal improvements through increased compassion.Men’s Mental Health: • Discussion on the stigma surrounding men's mental health. • Need for acceptance of emotional expression among men. • Reference to returning soldiers with PTSD. • Shalaine's song tackling societal expectations about men's emotions.Songwriting and Personal Expression: • Shalaine's song about her husband hypothetically committing suicide. • Importance of authenticity in songwriting for musicians. • Shalaine's independent songwriting process. • Balancing personal vulnerability with broader themes in her music.Performance Dynamics: • Unique dynamic created by performing with her father as her drummer. • Emotional impact of on-stage performances, leading to personal moments. • Shalaine's father stepping back from active drumming.Musical Background and Growth: • Shalaine's journey from musical theater, dance, and choral music to country music. • Early performance experiences influencing her stage presence. • Inheritance of her grandfather’s guitar sparking a renewed passion for music.Musical Preferences and Influences: • Shalaine's strong roots in country music and lack of interest in genre shifting. • Influences from Allison Krauss, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, and others. • Comparison of music streaming payouts, preference for Apple Music over Spotify.Song Release and Genre Evolution: • Upcoming release of "Dirt Road Race Remix 1." • Original recording of "Dirt Road Race" with revisions to remove jazz elements. • Collaboration with Sound Foundation and advice from Michael Botte to achieve a modern country rock style.Inter-generational Musical Connections: • Nostalgia for Backstreet Boys and NSYNC. • Exposure of Shalaine’s children to 90s music like "I Want It That Way." • Discussion on the nature of "guilty pleasure" songs from the past.Community and Personal Connection: • Shalaine’s participation with "the Amigos" group. • Building confidence through community and family-oriented performances. • Relationship management and emotional themes in songwriting, like "Ghost in This House."Online Presence and Merchandise: • Shalaine's presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. • Challenges and learning curve with TikTok for those over 30. • Merchandise availability and personal production for fan interactions.Financial Aspects of Music: • Challenges associated with low streaming royalties. • Discussion on making excessive money and its impact on enjoyment.Support and Recognition: • Introduction of Shalaine by Kayden Gordon to the podcast. • Participation and success at the International Singers Songwriters Association Awards.Personal Influence and Legacy: • Influence of Shalaine's grandfather on her musical passion. • Writing of "Silver and Gold" in tribute to her grandfather.Closing Remarks: • Appreciation for Shalaine's guest appearance. • Finishing the episode with the ethos: "when words fail, music speaks."