The Fearless Artist Podcast

In this episode of The Fearless Artist Podcast, Michelle Lynne sits down with dramatic soprano Shannon Jennings for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about the financial realities of pursuing a career in opera.Following the publication of her partner, bass Andrew Potter’s open letter in OperaWire announcing his retirement from staged opera, Shannon shares her personal experiences navigating an industry where professional success and financial stability don't necessarily go hand in hand. Together, they explore declining artist fees, rising living expenses, financial transparency, and the harmful narratives that normalize sacrifice and struggle among classical musicians.Shannon reflects on her unconventional career path, the importance of diversifying income, and the courage it takes to redefine success beyond prestigious engagements. She also discusses the need for greater artist representation, more sustainable working conditions, and a culture that empowers musicians to advocate for themselves and make informed career decisions.This powerful conversation challenges the starving artist mentality and encourages musicians to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset, prioritize their well-being, and build careers on their own terms. It is a reminder that pursuing artistic excellence should not come at the expense of financial security, personal fulfillment, or quality of life.Whether you're an aspiring musician, an established performer, or someone passionate about the future of classical music, this episode offers an important perspective on what it truly means to be a thriving artist.Shannon Instagram: @ShannonJenningsArts✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

In this episode of the Fearless Artist Podcast, Michelle Lynne interviews opera singer Deanna Breiwick about her journey embracing social media, especially Instagram, to authentically share her artistry. Deanna discusses overcoming fears of imperfection, using online platforms as PR tools, handling negativity, and the importance of self-care. She highlights the power of authenticity in building an artistic brand and serving her audience, inspiring musicians to share their true selves online.--Website –https://www.deannabreiwick.com/Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/deannabreiwick--The Fearless Mastermind Website - https://www.thefearlessartistmastermind.com/The Fearless Mastermind Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thefearlessartistmastermind/--Intro/Outro music by Michelle Lynne • Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

In this episode of The Fearless Artist, Michelle Lynne welcomes Australian actress, creative coach, and author Lara Bianca Pilcher to explore what it means to build a resilient, fulfilling artistic career in an increasingly competitive world.Drawing from her journey across Australia, London's West End, and the United States, Lara shares how unexpected challenges, industry shutdowns, and personal setbacks inspired her book, Audacious Artistry: Reclaim Your Creative Identity and Thrive in a Saturated World.Together, Michelle and Lara discuss the importance of separating artistic identity from external validation, navigating rejection, and finding new pathways for creative expression when opportunities disappear. Lara introduces her powerful metaphor that creativity is a mansion with many rooms, reminding artists that their creative potential extends far beyond any single discipline or career path.This inspiring conversation encourages artists to embrace uncertainty, reclaim ownership of their creativity, and develop the courage to keep showing up—even when the path forward is unclear.Connect with LaraWebsite: https://larabiancapilcher.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/larabiancapilcher/Social Media: @larabiancapilcherBook: https://larabiancapilcher.com/bookGet the BookAudacious Artistry: Reclaim Your Creative Identity and Thrive in a Saturated World is available through Lara's website, with purchase links to retailers including Barnes & Noble.Lara also offers a free companion group study guide, available on her book page, to help artists explore the book's ideas together.Book and Free Study Guide: https://larabiancapilcher.com/book✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

In this episode of The Fearless Artist Podcast, Michelle welcomes Belgian pianist, singer, and composer Nathalie Matthys to discuss her debut album, Picture Frame, which blends classical music, jazz, and original compositions. Nathalie shares her journey of embracing her multifaceted artistic identity, building a private teaching studio in Vienna, and connecting with audiences through Patreon and social media. Together, they explore the importance of authenticity, creative freedom, and finding a sustainable balance between artistry and business. Nathalie encourages musicians to stop chasing trends, trust their instincts, and pursue their passions at their own pace.Nathalie Matthys Instagram: @n.musicianPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/NMusicianWebsite: https://nathaliematthys.com✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

In this episode of The Fearless Artist, host Michelle Lynne sits down with American conductor Garrett Keast, founder of the Berlin Academy for American Music (BAAM), to explore the power of entrepreneurship, networking, and resilience in building a sustainable career in classical music.Garrett shares his journey from working behind the scenes at the Houston Symphony and Metropolitan Opera to establishing his own orchestra during the pandemic. What began as a recording project evolved into an international musical organization, driven by creative vision, strategic relationships, and a willingness to take risks.The conversation explores the realities of fundraising, the importance of building genuine connections, and why musicians must embrace both artistry and business. Garrett also reflects on overcoming career setbacks, finding opportunities in unexpected circumstances, and taking ownership of one's professional path.This episode is a reminder that a successful artistic career isn't just about talent—it's about initiative, perseverance, and having the courage to create your own opportunities.Garrett Keast Instagram: @garrettkeastconductsWebsite: https://www.garrettkeast.comBAAM Instagram: @berlinacademyofamericanmusic✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

In this episode of The Fearless Artist, host Michelle Lynne welcomes British pianist and educator Alisdair Hogarth for an insightful conversation about building a sustainable career in classical music. Drawing from his experiences performing, collaborating, and mentoring young musicians, Alisdair shares practical strategies for balancing artistic excellence with entrepreneurship, marketing, and productivity. From developing authentic personal branding to practicing efficiently and embracing unexpected opportunities, he emphasizes the importance of adaptability, consistency, and meaningful relationships. His advice? Focus on two career-building actions each week, play the long game, and above all, be prepared and be kind.Alisdair Hogarth Instagram: @AlisdairHogarth✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

Lucie Chartin joins Michelle Lynne to share her remarkable journey of walking away from a successful singing career—and finding her way back on entirely new terms. After years of performing internationally as a soprano, Lucie realized during the pandemic that the career she had worked so hard to build was no longer bringing her joy. She stepped away from music, explored a new creative path in web design and branding, and began rebuilding her identity outside of being a singer.Four and a half years later, reconnecting with former colleagues unexpectedly reignited her curiosity about singing. As her voice returned, so did something even more important: the joy of practicing. Lucie discusses how separating her self-worth, financial security, and definition of success from her music career gave her the freedom to return without the pressure that once consumed her.Together, Michelle and Lucie explore portfolio careers, ethical entrepreneurship, relationships in the music industry, motherhood, and the many different ways a musician can build a meaningful life. Lucie leaves listeners with a powerful question: What does it mean to be a “good musician” to you—and what does success actually look like on your own terms?Lucie Chartin Website: https://www.luciechartin.comSummerthyme Studio: https://www.summerthyme.nlInstagram: @lucie.chartin.soprano✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

Robert Bosworth welcomes pianist, singer, and The Fearless Artist co-founder Michelle Lynne for a lively conversation about the realities of building a fulfilling musical career. Michelle shares her journey from Canada to life as a working musician in Europe, her experience releasing an independent crossover album, and an upcoming piano four-hands project exploring home, identity, and belonging.Together, they discuss the craft behind musical expression, the challenges of disciplined practice, and learning to replace shame and harsh self-criticism with kindness. The conversation also turns to social media: finding your audience, navigating creative burnout, and building friendships and professional opportunities online. With plenty of teasing, unexpected tangents, and an impromptu merchandise pitch, Robert and Michelle offer an honest, funny look at balancing artistic ambition, personal growth, and the everyday demands of a musician’s life. ✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

In this episode of The Fearless Artist Podcast, Michelle speaks with two former Social Media Sprint participants about how sharing their work online helped them attract clients, connect with audiences, and create new career opportunities. They discuss overcoming perfectionism, staying consistent while balancing motherhood and music, and building an authentic online presence. Their experiences show how a clear social media strategy can turn everyday posts into meaningful professional connections.✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC

In this episode of The Fearless Artist podcast, Michelle Lynne shares highlights from Career Day, a 10-hour event helping classical musicians build fulfilling, sustainable careers. Topics include effective practice, audience engagement, marketing, negotiation, financial stability, and navigating career transitions. Michelle reflects on the power of community and investing in yourself, encouraging musicians to turn new ideas into action and build careers that bring them joy.✨ Explore The Fearless Mastermind:Website – thefearlessartistmastermind.comInstagram – @thefearlessartistmastermind🎵 Intro, Outro music by Michelle Lynne📌 Episode produced by phMediaStudio, LLC