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."