From Ballet to Billboard: Faith, Hit Songs & Creative Balance with Lauren Christy

From Ballet to Billboard: Faith, Hit Songs & Creative Balance with Lauren Christy

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Lauren Christy, whose incredible journey has taken her from ballet studios to the top of the charts. Known for penning massive hits like “Complicated” and “Sk8er Boi” with Avril Lavigne, Lauren reflects on how pivotal moments—including becoming a mother—aligned with some of the biggest breakthroughs in her career. She shares how her early love of movement and discipline in ballet laid a foundation for creativity, how trusting in divine timing has guided her path, and why she believes the music you make will take care of you—if you take care of it first. Lauren also opens up about the realities of being a woman in the music industry, the mental toll of high-pressure environments, and why community and collaboration are essential to long-term success. She drops powerful wisdom for aspiring songwriters, including her belief in writing a lot of songs to uncover the gems and her commitment to teaching through masterclasses. From trusting your gut to leaning on faith, Lauren’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to sacrifice your well-being to make it in the music industry—you just have to redefine what success looks like for you.   Timestamps: 00:00: Lauren Christy's Musical Journey 02:11: The Impact of Working with Avril Lavigne 05:20: Balancing Motherhood and a Music Career 08:14: Navigating the Music Industry as a Woman 15:14: Faith and Mental Health in High-Pressure Environments 18:29: The Creative Process: Inspiration and Songwriting Tips 22:56: Masterclass Insights and Career Consultations 27:01: Self-Care and Trusting Your Path LINKS * Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator] * * More info: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] * Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series] * Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1] * For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com [info@stefanifryzel.com] * Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1] * Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120 [https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120] * Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel [http://stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel] FOLLOW LAUREN CHRISTY: * Website: https://laurenchristy.com * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelaurenchristy/?hl=en * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelaurenchristy * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelaurenchristy

The Power of Authenticity, Listening, and Self-Care in Songwriting with Trey Campbell

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with Grammy-winning songwriter and executive producer Trey Campbell to explore the intersection of emotional intelligence, authenticity, and creative sustainability in the music industry. Trey shares his journey from North Carolina to collaborating with top artists, reflecting on how his early experiences working with young creatives helped shape his unique approach to songwriting. He opens up about the essential skill of listening—how it allows songwriters to hold space for artists and uncover honest, original perspectives that elevate the work. Trey also dives into the importance of self-awareness and safe creative environments that foster vulnerability and connection. The conversation touches on songwriting technique (hello, “Swedish math”), emotional resilience, and the often overlooked role of personal creativity in collaborative sessions. Trey explains how navigating personal transformation—whether through career changes or inner growth—can lead to greater clarity, more meaningful art, and a deeper connection to self. From breaking down walls in writing rooms to practicing intentional self-care, this episode is packed with gems for any songwriter or creative trying to stay grounded while building a meaningful, sustainable career in music.   Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Trey Campbell 02:03: Trey's Journey into Songwriting 05:30: The Role of a Songwriter 09:25: Creating a Safe Space in Songwriting 13:55: Self-Care for Creatives 18:04: Navigating Identity and Authenticity 23:35: Educating Through Dialogue 24:19: The Importance of Self-Reflection 25:40: Navigating Authenticity in Songwriting 28:32: Songwriting Tips and Techniques 32:35: Finding Space for Personal Creativity 36:32: Embracing Change as Life Elevation 42:32: Self-Care and Personal Growth LINKS * Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator] * * More info: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] * Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series] * Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1] * For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com [info@stefanifryzel.com] * Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1] * Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120 [https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120] * Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel [http://stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel] FOLLOW TREY CAMPBELL: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treycampbellmusic/https://www.instagram.com/treycampbellmusic/ * Spotify (Artist Profile): https://open.spotify.com/artist/0B1MNhh1YCo88CVzSP5j3u [https://open.spotify.com/artist/0B1MNhh1YCo88CVzSP5j3u]

Songwriting, Self-Care & Showing Up: Creativity, Visibility & Mental Health in Music with Christina Tripp

In this inspiring episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with Christina Tripp, a Nashville-based songwriter and social media content creator, to talk about the real-life highs and lows of the creative journey. Christina shares her story of stepping into the music industry, her favorite songwriting practices, and how she works through blocks when inspiration feels out of reach. From the power of journaling and movement to the value of writing alongside stronger creatives, she opens up about what keeps her going and how she stays aligned with her vision—especially when the fear of visibility creeps in. Together, Stefani and Christina dig into the importance of self-belief, rest, and a solid schedule that supports both productivity and peace of mind. Christina also drops practical tips for content creation (whether you're a planner or a spontaneous soul), and talks about how daily gratitude can help reset your mindset when doubt tries to take over. If you’re looking for encouragement to stay visible, stay grounded, and keep writing even when it’s hard—this episode is packed with gems.   Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Christina Tripp 03:36: Christina's Musical Journey 05:42: Top Songwriting Tips 08:22: Overcoming Writer's Block 11:10: Recharging Creativity 13:36: The Importance of Scheduling 18:53: Content Creation Strategies 21:18: Facing Visibility Fears 23:41: Self-Care Practices 26:16: Advice to Baby Christina LINKS * Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator] * * More info: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] * Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series] * Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1] * For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com [info@stefanifryzel.com] * Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1] * Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120 [https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120] * Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel [http://stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel]   FOLLOW Christina Tripp: * Website: https://www.christinatripp.com/ * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinatripp/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/christinatripp/?hl=en] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ7wE60jds6gb-BaE14mhoA * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinatripps/ [https://www.facebook.com/christinatripps/] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Christinatripp

Mastering Social Media Without Losing Your Mind: Marketing & Mental Health for Artists with Jazmine Valencia

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, host Stefani Fryzel sits down with music marketing expert and founder of JV Agency, Jazmine Valencia. Together, they dive into the often overwhelming world of social media for artists—unpacking how it affects mental health, creativity, and career longevity. Jaz shares her own journey through the music industry and offers up grounded, practical advice on how artists can craft intentional strategies that actually work. From defining clear goals to understanding what truly resonates with your audience, this conversation is a goldmine for any artist trying to cut through the noise without burning out in the process. Stefani and Jaz also explore how self-care is non-negotiable when it comes to thriving in the digital space. They talk about the power of setting boundaries with your content, using free tools and AI to boost efficiency, and building a social media plan that’s aligned with your brand—not someone else’s blueprint. Whether you're deep in the scroll hole or totally overwhelmed by the algorithm, this episode reminds creatives that marketing can be both effective and sustainable—with a little intention and a lot of self-compassion. Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Social Media Marketing in Music 03:06: Navigating Mental Health and Social Media 06:05: Crafting a Social Media Strategy 08:58: Understanding Artist Branding and Niche 12:01: The Importance of Commitment in Social Media 15:08: Practical Tips for Social Media Success 17:52: Leveraging Technology and Tools 21:04: Self-Care Practices for Creatives 23:59: Advice for Aspiring Artists 25:06: Conclusion and Resources LINKS   * Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator] * * More info: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] * Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series] * Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1] * For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com [info@stefanifryzel.com] * Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1] * Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120 [https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120] * Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel [http://stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel] FOLLOW JAZMINE VALENCIA: * JV Agency Website: https://www.jvagency.co/ [https://www.jvagency.co/] * JV Agency Instagram: https://www.tiktok.com/@jvagency [https://www.tiktok.com/@jvagency] * JV Agency Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JVAgency/ * JV Agency TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jvagency * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djjazzy/?hl=en * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JazmineValencia/

The Best Self-Care Routine for Songwriters – Daily Habits That Support Sustainable Creativity

In this episode of Self-Care for the Creative, Stefani Fryzel dives into what self-care actually looks like for songwriters and creatives trying to thrive—not just survive—in the music industry. She shares powerful and practical tools like the magic of morning rituals to set the vibe for your day, the underrated importance of rest and play in refueling your creative spark, and how a solid nighttime wind-down routine can help you reset for what’s next. From managing emotional rollercoasters to honoring your energy through the natural seasons of creativity, Stefani reminds us that self-care isn’t just bubble baths and breaks—it’s an active practice in protecting your peace, your mental health, and your art. She also gets real about social media boundaries, the emotional aftermath of pouring your heart into your work, and how listening to new music can reignite your inspiration. Whether you're in hustle mode or healing mode, this episode will encourage you to define what self-care means for you, and how to regularly check in and tweak your routine as your needs shift. Because being a creative isn’t just about making great art—it’s about sustaining your whole self while you do it.   Timestamps: 00:00: Introduction to Self-Care for Songwriters 01:30: The Importance of Self-Care for Creatives 04:01: Morning Rituals for Songwriters 07:05: The Power of Rest and Play 09:28: Evening Routines and Wind Down Techniques 14:10: Managing Emotional Highs and Lows 20:26: Balancing Productivity with Rest 22:15: Defining Personal Self-Care Practices   LINKS * Join us at our Annual Hitmakers Songwriting Retreat this October in Los Angeles!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1301496574289?aff=oddtdtcreator] * * More info: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] * Join us at The Songwriter Series for music mentorship from hit songwriters: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/the-songwriter-series] * Join the Artist Development Program: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/artist-development-program-1] * For more info on all our events visit: stefanifryzel.com [http://stefanifryzel.com] or email us at info@stefanifryzel.com [info@stefanifryzel.com] * Free Resources: https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1 [https://www.stefanifryzel.com/opt-in-1] * Self-Care for the Creative Book: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120 [https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Creative-Survival-Creatives-Sensitive/dp/1960876120] * Book a 1:1 session: stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel [http://stan.store/StefaniFryzel/p/11-strategy-session-with-stefani-fryzel]