A Voice and Beyond

Dr Marisa Lee Naismith

A Voice and Beyond isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. It’s a celebration of every voice. It’s a space where authenticity thrives, personal transformation happens, and the beauty of individuality is embraced.   Each episode is a tribute to the challenges, and triumphs that make us who we are. Through heartfelt conversations and inspiring stories, we take you, our listener, on an incredible journey of connection, growth, and empowerment.    Whether you’re a performing artist, a creative, or someone who is simply searching for  a place where your voice is heard, we invite you to tune in and become part of our global family.   Let your journey of inspiration begin here and now!

  1. 12 hr ago

    #221 Building Healthy, Resilient Vocal Athletes with Dr. Reena Gupta

    What if singers stopped thinking of themselves simply as artists... and started thinking of themselves as vocal athletes? That simple mindset shift has the power to transform not only how singers perform, but how they care for their bodies, protect their voices, and build sustainable careers. In this inspiring episode of A Voice and Beyond, internationally renowned laryngologist and voice surgeon Dr. Reena Gupta joins me to discuss the future of vocal health and why every singer deserves access to world-class education, preventative care, and a collaborative support team. As the founder of the Center for Vocal Health and co-founder of The Svara Project, Dr. Gupta has dedicated her career to helping singers, actors, voice actors and professional voice users develop healthy, resilient voices that last a lifetime. Through the Svara Project, she is working to remove barriers to vocal health education, injury prevention, artist advocacy and mental health support so that every voice has the opportunity to thrive. (The Svara Project) In this episode you'll discover: Why singers should think of themselves as vocal athletesThe biggest misconceptions about vocal healthEarly warning signs of vocal injuryHow to build a long, sustainable singing careerWhy prevention is always better than rehabilitationThe physical, mental and emotional demands placed on performersThe importance of building a multidisciplinary support teamWhy mental health is essential to vocal performanceHow the Svara Project is expanding access to vocal health education around the worldWhat every singer should know before stepping on stageWhether you're an emerging singer, an experienced performer, a singing teacher, or simply someone who relies on your voice professionally, this conversation offers practical, evidence-based insights to help you care for your most valuable instrument. Find Reena Here: centerforvocalhealth.com/facebook.com/centerforvocalhealth/instagram.com/centerforvocalhealthtiktok.com/@voicedoctorlinkedin.com/in/reena-gupta-91ab484/SVARA: svaraproject.com/instagram.com/svaraproject/facebook.com/svaraprojectyoutube.com/@svaraproject3985SVARA Oz Tickets:  svaraproject.com/event-tickets-special-offersDiscount code: SVARA10 (10% Off)Blog: centerforvocalhealth.com/blog-3Find Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

  2. 16 Aug

    #220 How to Create Career Opportunities Through Real Conversations with Jen Fort

    What if the reason you feel stuck in your career isn't because you don't have the answers, but because you're waiting too long to act? In a world where layoffs are rising, AI is reshaping industries, and millions of people are competing for attention online, traditional networking is no longer enough. In this episode, our guest Jen Fort introduces a powerful shift: Connectworking®, a powerful and practical human-first approach she developed to building relationships, and creating opportunity, and moving forward before you feel ready. After rebuilding her own career following an unexpected shift, Jen discovered that success doesn't come from perfect résumés or polished pitches, it comes from meaningful conversations. In this episode we explore: Why traditional networking no longer worksThe concept of Connectworking® and how to apply itHow to start conversations without feeling awkwardHow to create opportunity in uncertain timesWhy introverts have an advantageHow to stand out without sounding inauthenticThe role of human connection in an AI-driven worldSimple, practical ways to build confidence and visibilityThis episode is especially relevant for anyone navigating career transitions, building a business, or trying to stand out in a crowded digital world. Find Jen Here: iamjenfort.com/linkedin.com/in/jenfort/instagram.com/iamjenfort/tiktok.com/@iamjenfortResources: The Wisdom & Warnings® Collection: iamjenfort.com/booksBooks: Stop Networking, Start Connectworking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GGFG28QKThe Badass Woman: Daily Wisdom for Living Your Boldest Life (365 Days of Wisdom & Warnings) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXLDH9LLFind Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

  3. 2 Aug

    #219 When Fame Enters the Courtroom with James Porfido

    What happens when a legal case becomes global entertainment? When a celebrity is accused of serious wrongdoing, the public rarely waits for a courtroom verdict before forming an opinion. News headlines, documentaries, podcasts, social media commentary and viral clips can shape a narrative long before all the available evidence has been examined. In this compelling episode of A Voice and Beyond, I speak with attorney and legal commentator James Porfido about the complex relationship between celebrity, media influence, public opinion and the justice system. Drawing on high-profile cases involving figures such as Michael Jackson and Sean "Diddy" Combs, James explores what happens when allegations are tried simultaneously in a courtroom and in the court of public opinion. Our conversation is not about declaring guilt or innocence. Instead, it examines how we consume stories about public figures, how easily allegation can be confused with proof and why critical thinking is essential when legal proceedings become part of popular culture. In this episode, we discuss: Why public opinion is not the same as a legal verdictThe difference between an allegation, evidence and proofHow celebrity status can influence the way legal cases are reportedMichael Jackson's legal history and the continuing debate surrounding his legacyThe complexity around cases involving Sean "Diddy" Combs and Jeffrey EpsteinWhether celebrity defendants can receive a genuinely fair trialHow confirmation bias affects the information we accept or rejectWhy due process matters, even when public emotions are intenseThe danger of confusing online popularity with credibilityHow audiences can become more responsible consumers of legal content This episode is ultimately a conversation about media literacy, justice and personal responsibility. It is a reminder that critical thinking does not mean dismissing allegations or refusing to believe those who come forward. It means holding space for seriousness and compassion while also respecting evidence, due process and the presumption of innocence. Find James Here: justicewithporfido.com/facebook.com/porfidolawinstagram.com/jamesporfido/linkedin.com/in/james-m-porfido-b007461a1/Book: Unequal Justice: The Search for Truth to Balance the Scales xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/861729-unequal-justiceFind Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

  4. 19 Jul

    #218 You’re Not Stuck — Your Brain Just Needs Rewiring with Dr Erika Horwitz

    What if the reason you feel overwhelmed isn't because you're failing, but because your brain is overloaded? We are living in an era where stress has become the norm, with over 75% of people reporting feeling overwhelmed. And yet, the human brain was never designed for this constant level of stimulation and pressure. In this powerful episode, psychologist Dr. Erika Horwitz shares insights from over 30 years of experience, along with cutting-edge neuroscience on neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change, adapt, and rewire itself. In this episode we explore:  ✔ Why we are living in an "era of overwhelm"  ✔ What chronic stress does to the brain  ✔ The science of neuroplasticity and how change is possible  ✔ How to rewire your brain for calm and resilience  ✔ The “5 Things Exercise” and how it works  ✔ Why mental health stigma still exists — and how to shift it  ✔ The rise of anxiety in children and why early intervention matters  ✔ Practical tools you can use immediately This conversation is not just informative. It's practical, empowering, and filled with tools you can apply immediately. If you’re ready for a calmer mind, greater resilience, and a new way of understanding your mental health, this episode is for you. Find Erika Here: mindfulnessyvr.com/facebook.com/erika.horwitzinstagram.com/dr.erika_hBook: Improbable and Extraordinary: A Transformation of Mental Illness and Addiction by Saul Horwitz and Erika Horwitz, PHD https://improbableandextraordinary.com/ Find Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

  5. 5 Jul

    #217 The Hidden Causes of Our Inner Turmoil with Dr Shila Patel Part 2

    In Part 2 of my conversation with Shila Patel, we move beyond understanding inner turmoil and explore the profound impact our relationships, communities, and sense of connection have on our mental and emotional wellbeing. Drawing on more than 25 years as a practicing psychiatrist, Dr. Patel shares why loneliness has become one of the defining public health challenges of our time, how stigma continues to prevent people from seeking help, and why meaningful healing begins with personal responsibility, self-awareness, and authentic human connection. Together, we discuss the changing landscape of modern relationships, the importance of rebuilding community, and how compassion, accountability, and respect can help us create healthier families and stronger societies. If you've ever felt isolated, misunderstood, or overwhelmed by today's fast-paced world, this conversation offers both hope and practical wisdom. In this episode we discuss: Why loneliness is becoming a global health crisisThe connection between loneliness and mental illnessWhy social isolation may be one of the earliest warning signs of emotional distressBreaking the stigma surrounding mental healthThe impact of modern relationships on emotional wellbeingWhy personal responsibility is essential for healingHow stronger communities create healthier individualsBuilding resilience through meaningful human connectionThis episode reminds us that when we have the courage to reconnect, with ourselves, with others, and with what truly matters. Find Dr. Patel Here: drshilapatel.com/facebook.com/shilapatel.144/twitter.com/Manjri56Patelhttps://www.youtube.com/@shilapatel6787Book: US Unhinged - amazon.com.au/Unhinged-Dr-Shila-Patel-M-D-ebook/dp/B09QL9V46LFind Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

  6. 28 Jun

    #216 Why Your Digital Identity Matters More Than Ever with Joe Alagna

    Are you building your online presence on borrowed land? In today's digital world, many creatives, entrepreneurs, coaches, and performers spend years building audiences on social media while overlooking the one asset they truly own: their online identity. Joe has spent decades helping businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations build their online presence and has been involved in the launch of dozens of successful top-level domains around the world. In this episode, Joe shares why your domain name is far more than a website address. It's the foundation of your brand, your credibility, and your long-term visibility online. Together we explore: Why most people build their online brand backwardsThe biggest mistakes creatives make onlineHow to choose a domain name that supports your career long-termWhy social media should support your brand, not become your brandHow to create a digital presence that grows with you over time Whether you're launching a business, building a creative career, or growing your personal brand, this conversation offers practical advice that could save you years of frustration. FIND JOE HERE: alagna.cominstagram.com/j_alagnax.com/joealagnayoutube.com/@joealagna linkedin.com/in/joealagnaBOOK: How To Get Your Own Top-Level Domain (TLD) - amazon.com/dp/B0FD3DTB5J Find Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

  7. 21 Jun

    #215 The Hidden Causes of Our Inner Turmoil with Dr Shila Patel Part 1

    Why do so many people feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and internally conflicted — even when life appears stable on the outside? In this deeply insightful conversation, Dr. Shila Patel draws on more than two decades of psychiatric practice to explore the roots of inner turmoil and how individuals can reclaim peace, responsibility, and emotional clarity. Her global life journey and clinical experience provide a unique lens on identity, resilience, relationships, mental health stigma, and the societal pressures shaping today's emotional landscape. In this episode we explore: What inner turmoil really is — and why so many people experience itHow to take responsibility for your inner world without self-blameThe stigma surrounding mental health and how to overcome itThe psychological impact of modern parenting stylesHealing after harassment, trauma, or emotional woundsHow societal instability affects emotional wellbeingThe path toward inner peace and emotional freedomThis part 1 episode with Dr Shila Patel, examines the emotional realities affecting individuals, families, and future generations — and offers practical pathways toward healing and personal responsibility. Part 2 of this episode will be released on July 6th. Find Dr. Patel Here: drshilapatel.com/facebook.com/shilapatel.144/twitter.com/Manjri56Patelhttps://www.youtube.com/@shilapatel6787Book: US Unhinged - amazon.com.au/Unhinged-Dr-Shila-Patel-M-D-ebook/dp/B09QL9V46LFind Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

  8. 14 Jun

    #214 The Midlife Wake-Up Call Every Man Needs with Dixon

    Why do so many people reach midlife feeling disconnected from themselves? In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Brian Dixon — known professionally as Dixon — shares his journey from quiet misalignment and emotional drift to reclaiming purpose, courage, and authenticity later in life. Dixon, is an adventurer, author, speaker, and founder of The Someday NOW Project, a human re-engagement movement dedicated to helping people reconnect with purpose, energy, and the parts of themselves they may have lost to burnout, routine, and misalignment. After a life-threatening pulmonary embolism following a mountain bike accident, Dixon realized the life he was living no longer aligned with who he truly was. At 52 years old, he trained for two years before launching a paraglider solo off Lookout Mountain in Colorado, a moment that became symbolic of reclaiming his voice, identity, and future. Today, Dixon helps individuals, leaders, and organizations recognize the signs of disengagement and reconnect with meaningful action, ownership, and authentic living. He is the author of Hold My Beer: I’m Going Back in the Game. Together, we explore: why so many men silently struggle in midlifethe emotional cost of always playing the provider or superhero rolewhat Dixon calls the “Man-Zombie Epidemic”the importance of challenge, adventure, and authentic livingand how reconnecting with yourself can completely change your lifeThis episode is deeply honest, inspiring, and relevant for anyone who has ever felt disconnected from themselves or stuck living a life that no longer fits. Find Dixon Here: gowithdixon.com/facebook.com/DixonColoradoRealtorlinkedin.com/in/briandixonstoryteller/youtube.com/@LiveWhereYouPlayTVBook: Hold My Beer: I'm Going Back In The Game -  https://gowithdixon.com/#container16Find Marisa online: Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videosResources: MLN Coaching Program: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/mentoring/Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

About

A Voice and Beyond isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. It’s a celebration of every voice. It’s a space where authenticity thrives, personal transformation happens, and the beauty of individuality is embraced.   Each episode is a tribute to the challenges, and triumphs that make us who we are. Through heartfelt conversations and inspiring stories, we take you, our listener, on an incredible journey of connection, growth, and empowerment.    Whether you’re a performing artist, a creative, or someone who is simply searching for  a place where your voice is heard, we invite you to tune in and become part of our global family.   Let your journey of inspiration begin here and now!

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