Living on the B Side
by Birgit Livesey
Living on the B Side is a podcast about the transformative power of music — in life, healing, and human connection.Through honest conversations and personal reflections, I explore how music supports us emotionally, creatively, and spiritually. From favorite songs to powerful memories, every episode highlights stories where music made a difference.Music. People. Stories. Transformation.My mission is to nurture a mindful community of music lovers who believe that one song can change everything.
Episodes
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A B-Side Flip: Final Episode on Carer Burnout, Music & Change
This is the final episode of Living on the B Side—at least in the way you’ve known it. In this deeply personal solo episode, I share my experience of carer burnout while navigating serious family health challenges, and how—unexpectedly—music went quiet for me during that time. What I needed…
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Can AI Reduce Artist Burnout Without Touching the Music?
In this episode of Living on the B Side, Birgit speaks with Brad Stewart about how AI can reduce the stress of the business side of music while keeping creativity intact. Together, they explore the mental health challenges artists face, the power of music to guide us, and practical ways…
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Rewriting Your Life Story with Music: A Conversation with Carrie KC West
In this episode of Living on the B Side, host Birgit Livesey speaks with bestselling author and narrative coach Carrie KC West about the stories we carry through life — and how music often reveals when we’re ready to rewrite them. Together, they explore how our personal soundtracks can reflect...
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Autism and Music: When Passion Becomes Purpose – with Sam Mitchell
In this episode of Living on the B Side, I speak with Sam Mitchell, host of Autism Rocks and Rolls, about autism and music — and how a deep love of rock shaped his identity and advocacy work. We explore how music can become more than entertainment. It can offer structure, confidence, and a way to...
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Don’t Give Up: Following Your Artistic Calling with Naila Keleta-Mae
In this episode of Living on the B Side, I sit down with musician, scholar, and multidisciplinary artist Naila Keleta-Mae to talk about her latest album I’m Grateful, which has gained international recognition. We explore the vulnerability and joy of sharing music with the world, the creative...
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Medication for Modern World: How Orphan Prodigy Transforms Rejection into Healing Music
In this episode of Living on the B Side, host Birgit speaks with Ian and Danielle from Orphan Prodigy about their conceptual album “Medication for Modern World” and the story behind their song “Trader.” Together, they explore how music can transform feelings of chaos, rejection, and being an...
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From Ashes to Albums: How Loss Sparked Creative Fire with Robbie Gennet
In this episode of Living on the B Side, host B speaks with Robbie Gennet – Los Angeles-based musician, educator, author and lifelong creative – about turning loss into art, self-permission in creativity and staying authentic as an artist. Together, they explore how music can become a language…
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How Songwriting Heals Mental Health, with Emma G
In this episode of Living on the B Side, host B speaks with Emma G a musician, bestselling author, and TEDx speaker on a mission to help people turn struggles into songs, reclaim their voice, and find empowerment through music. She believes that songwriting, breath, and the voice can support…
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Echoes of the Land: Singing, Language & Reconciliation Through Music
In this deeply interesting episode, I’m joined by Julie from Luminous Voices, a professional choir based in Canada that’s been quietly reshaping its work by collaborating with First Nations composers and singers. What started as an outdoor music project during COVID has become an ongoing journey...
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Touched by Sound: Blanca on Energy, Trauma & the Power of Music in Therapy
In this rich and energetic episode, I am joined by the multi-passionate and deeply intuitive Blanca—massage therapist, holistic life coach, Zumba instructor, dancer, and certified canine massage therapist. With decades of experience in the healing arts, Blanca shares how music has always been her...
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Restoration Through Sound: Jay Davids on Music, Faith & Holding On When Life Falls Apart
What happens when life throws you curveball after curveball—grief, heartbreak, depression, loss of identity—and somehow, you’re still here? In this moving episode, I sit down with Christian singer-songwriter Jay Davids, whose life reads like a roadmap of trials, but whose voice carries the weight...
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Sound, Signals & Stillness: How Silvermouse Uses Music to Shift Consciousness
What happens when music becomes more than entertainment — when it turns into a tool for presence, healing, and human connection? In this episode of Living on the B Side, I sit down with Joanne and Justin of Silvermouse, a genre-defying music duo weaving together psychedelic soundscapes,...
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How Jazz for Peace Was Born on 9/11: Rick DellaRatta on Music as a Tool for Healing & Change
What happens when one rooftop poem leads to a global peace movement? In this episode of Living on the B Side, I’m joined by jazz pianist and activist Rick DellaRatta to explore the powerful story behind Jazz for Peace—a musical initiative sparked by the events of 9/11. We talk about: • Using…
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The Healing Power of Music for Seniors – with Sarah Martin McConnell
Discover how music transforms the lives of seniors in this inspiring episode with Sarah Martin McConnell, founder of Music for Seniors. We explore the powerful connection between music and wellbeing, and how Sarah’s non-profit brings live music experiences to older adults across the U.S. 🎵 From...
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100 Episodes Later: Dropping the Mic & Leaning Into What Feels Right
100 episodes. Five years. Countless conversations about the power of music. During this personal and honest milestone episode, I reflect on my journey with Living on the B Side—the moments that moved me (to tears even!), the struggles I faced, and the lessons I have learned along the way. I open…
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Resilience Through Music: Exploring Violeta Parra’s Story with Ericka Verba
Have you heard of Violeta Parra? If not, then in this episode, you will discover that she was more than a musician—she was a poet, activist, and artistic force whose songs have shaped movements, comforted souls around the world, and stood the test of time. In this interview, I sit down with…
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The Vibrational Power of Music & Colour with Peta-Ann Wood
Have you ever asked yourself what music, colours, vibration and frequencies have in common to affect your energy, emotions and overall wellbeing? I have invited Peta-Ann, founder of Elegant Rebel and breast cancer thriver, back on my podcast to share more about this interesting topic; we explore...
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Keep the Faith: Navigating Goals and Energy in Creative Work
There are times when life and podcasting asks us to take a step back, reassess, and then make the necessary changes that align with our energy and priorities. In this solo episode, I share all about the experiment that I have been running – releasing weekly episodes – and the lessons I have…
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From Rock Roots to Redemption: Howard Gripp's Christian Music Journey
What do you think happens when a rock’n’roll lifestyle collides with a life-changing moment of faith? Howard Gripp, a Wisconsin -based musician, shares his own powerful story of transformation – what began with him playing in bars and dealing with many personal struggles to creating Christian…
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Finding My Rhythm: Discovering the Heartbeat of my True Self
During this solo episode on the B Side, I explore the rhythm of my own life and heart thanks to the inspiration of Don Johnson’s song ‘’Heartbeat”. I am taking you on a journey into my own story, the one where I am looking to rediscover my own heartbeat, how to embrace who I am right now and how…
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From Shy Nurse to Empowering Artist: Oda Rose's Musical Evolution
In this episode, I say ‘’ hei og velkommen’’ to singer-songwriter Oda Rose, a Eurovision Song Contest finalist and participant in the Norwegian Idol, who transformed from shy and anxious as a nurse to a musician with a thriving career. During our conversation, Oda shares about her struggles with...
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Unlocking the Human Side of Artistry: An Intimate Conversation with Pianist Martin Mayer
Discover the captivating story of Canadian pianist and composer Martin Mayer as he opens up about the human side of being an artist. In this intimate conversation, I welcome Mayer to my podcast, delving into the realities behind the glamour of the music industry. From the anxiety of performing to...
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Unlocking Your Creative Voice Through Music and Nature
In this episode, I’m joined by the talented singer-songwriter Melissa James as we explore how music and nature can unlock your creative voice and spark personal transformation. Melissa shares her inspiring journey of overcoming self-doubt and societal expectations to fully embrace her passion for...
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A Musical Year in Review: Reflecting on 2024 Through 4 Powerful Songs
As the year comes to a close, I'm inviting you to join me on a reflective journey through 2024 - but with a musical twist. In this special solo episode, I'll be sharing a 4-song challenge that invites you to look back on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. From the hopes and…
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Be Your Own Hero: How Music Empowers Self-Reflection
In this episode, I want to dive into why we sometimes need to be our own heroes and how music plays a huge role in that journey. Welcome to episode 90—can you believe we’ve made it this far? I’m so grateful you’re here with me today! I’ll be reflecting on Mariah Carey’s powerful song "Hero,"…
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Defying Chronic Illness: A Musical Journey of Determination
In this episode of The Living on the B Side podcast, musician Kristie Jaques shares her inspiring story of living with chronic lung illness while pursuing her passion for songwriting and performing. Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs She...
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A Sound Healer's Journey: Pursuing her Calling after overcoming fear and near death experiences
On this episode of The Living on the B Side podcast, I interview Willow, an immersive sound experience producer and dedicated sound healing practitioner. Willow shares her profound 10-year journey of self-discovery that led her to this work. Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE...
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The Connection Between Music and Comedy: A Conversation with Comedian Matt Young
This time on the podcast, I sit down for a conversation with Australian comedian Matt Young about the connection between his passions for music and comedy. Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs We chat about Matt's formative teenage years...
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Music Memory Lane: My Special ‘Spice Girls’ Weekend in London
Join me for a nostalgic trip back to the 90s as I share a memorable weekend in London with my mom…and the Spice Girls! Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs It's 1997, and my mum and I are back in London. Back in the city we love and have...
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Embracing Your Inner Musician: Alex Berg Shares Her Musical Journey
In this episode, indie musician Alex B joins me to discuss her creative process on her upcoming EP, and the role of music in self-expression. Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs We explore how Alex uses songwriting to work through emotions...
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Unpretty: The Power of Embracing Yourself
Today, I explore the timeless message of TLC's "Unpretty." Reflecting on my own struggles with self-image, I delve into the societal pressures women face and the quest for self-acceptance in today's image-driven culture. 🎙️ Join the B Side Community on Facebook:...
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Discover your emotions, with the help of Music
The episode focuses on using music to identify emotions. It provides you with ideas, tips, and tricks on how to use songs to dig deeper into your own emotions and get to know yourself better. Download my FREE Music Melody Mood Map ➡️ https://bit.ly/MusicandCoaching I share how I personally use...
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Both Sides Now: Heather Hill on Motherhood, Grief, and Carrying On
In this interview, Heather and I chat about the legacy music can leave within a family and beyond. Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs Having released her latest album ‘Twilight Mist’, we talk about how this album came together, what her...
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Riding the Waves of Life: Embracing the Ebb and Flow
‘Über sieben Brücken mußt du geh'n’ by Peter Maffay is the perfect theme song for this episode, because it captures the overall message of life’s cycles, its ups and downs perfectly. Read about more inspiring, powerful songs in my FREE download ➡️ https://bit.ly/35PowerofMusicSongs Like the…
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How one song has reignited my passion for Living on the B side
I have picked the song ‘Evacuate the dancefloor’ as the theme song for this episode because it appeared to me at a time when I needed a spark, something to remind me of the reasons why I created Living on the B Side. Listening to the lyrics and hearing ‘Evacuate the dancefloor’ has given me...
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C’est la vie - Reflecting Forward: Bonus episode reflecting on my 2023 journey
As we approach the close of another year, join me in this special solo episode of [as we take a deep dive into the highs, lows, and memorable moments that defined 2023 for me. In this review, I'll not only unwrap the highlights from the podcast, featuring both solo musings and engaging...
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Walking to Resilience: Laura Mack's Journey Through the Healing Power of Music
In this deeply moving episode of, I bring you the remarkable story of Laura Mack, a survivor of a serious car crash who defied the odds and learned to walk again, fueled by the powerful melodies of the Foo Fighters. Laura's journey is not just one of physical recovery; it's a testament to the...
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From Wanderlust to Soundwaves: Nastiya Kai's Journey of Reinvention
In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Nastiya Kai, a global nomad born in Moscow, Russia, whose journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. From traversing the globe for studies to dropping out of high school in grade 10, Nastiya's story is one of constant reinvention and...
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From Complexity to Simplicity: Dan Spencer's Quest for a Simple Approach to Music
As we dive into our conversation with Dan, it becomes clear that talking to him is like injecting yourself with a dose of super-charged music. His energy is contagious, and his passion for making music accessible to all is palpable. Throughout the episode, Dan generously shares gold nuggets of...
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Harmony of Healing: Sabi Lew's Journey of Music, Mental Health, and Self-Care
In this soul-stirring episode, I have the privilege of diving deep into the transformative power of music with Sabi Lew. Join us as we explore the profound impact that music has had on her life, especially when it comes to her mental health, self-acceptance, and self-care. In this episode, we sit...
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These Dreams: An Introvert's Anthem of Hope and Inspiration
In this episode I embark on a musical journey back to the late 1980s when a song had the power to touch our hearts, stir our spirits, and inspire our dreams. Join me as I delve deep into the enchanting melody and lyrics of "These Dreams" by Heart. From the moment the first notes of "These Dreams"...
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Empowering Marginalized Artists Through Healing and Visibility, chat with Sista Creatives Rising
In this episode of Living on the B Side, I shine a spotlight on a remarkable grassroots project making waves in the world of art and creativity: Sista Creatives Rising. Join us as we explore their mission to empower marginalized women and gender-diverse individuals, offering them a platform for...
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Song of the soul: How one song helps me find the light in the darkness
In this episode, I'm going to be using Jimin’s (of BTS) song ‘’Set me free part 2’’ to talk about why this song is my second song in a trilogy of songs given to me by music, and how I apply it to my current life. This song for me focuses on having determination, passion and overcoming and…
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How to become more intuitive with the help of music, with Peta-Ann Wood
Do you know how music is part of being clairaudient? I did not until I met Peta-Ann and her deep ability to see and feel music on a completely different level. She is a woman that approaches life from an angle of acceptance, love and inclusivity and in a way that is elegant but also rebellious.…
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More than words: How to Use Music to Build Self-Love
How do we cultivate more self-love? How can we start to pay more attention to ourselves and give us the time and attention we need to embrace our uniqueness and accept us for who and how we are? I started to ask myself these questions (again) after recording the interview with Barbara in episode…
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K-pop Band BTS: Aussie Army's perspective on loving yourself, with Barbara dela Pena
We hear it a lot these days that ‘loving yourself’ is the first step to a happy and fulfilling life. Putting that into action and practise can be hard thought. This is where inspiration and support can truly make a difference. Enter BTS (with a super funky, sharp and colourful choreo & vocals)!...
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Moving through a dark time and emotional numbness
Emotional numbness can strike anyone in their life. Especially when we navigate tricky and hard times, which take a lot out of us. In this episode I am trying to share my personal thoughts around the first few months of 2023, how I shut down emotionally because life was too overwhelming for me…
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You are Able to do anything your Heart desires – chat with Able Heart - Part 2
‘Whisper’, ‘Worth it’ and ‘Love Yourself’ – songs that show up on my Instagram stories so much these days. These songs have been created by the one and only Able Heart! I couldn’t resist to invite him to my show to find out more about him, his journey and what makes him tick to create the music…
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You are Able to do anything your Heart desires – chat with Able Heart - Part 1
‘Whisper’, ‘Worth it’ and ‘Love Yourself’ – songs that show up on my Instagram stories so much these days. These songs have been created by the one and only Able Heart! I couldn’t resist to invite him to my show to find out more about him, his journey and what makes him tick to create the music…
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Reclaim Your Joy: Eileen on Healing Heartbreak with Music
Relationship breakdowns are never easy or enjoyable. Eileen March shares how one powerful song helped her turn a challenging breakup into a transformative new beginning. Read about how 5 little known music strategies can enhance your wellbeing https://bit.ly/5MusicStrategies It was the beginning…
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About this show
Living on the B Side is a podcast about the transformative power of music — in life, healing, and human connection.Through honest conversations and personal reflections, I explore how music supports us emotionally, creatively, and spiritually. From favorite songs to powerful memories, every episode highlights stories where music made a difference.Music. People. Stories. Transformation.My mission is to nurture a mindful community of music lovers who believe that one song can change everything.
Hosted by
Birgit Livesey
Categories