In today’s episode, sponsored by BetterHelp and in partnership with Bones Coffee Company and All Above Landscaping, our hosts Blake Mosley, James Todd, and Amanda Dolan dive deep into the therapeutic essence of music with the talented musician and filmmaker, Zach McKenzie. Main Themes: The Therapeutic Power of Music: Exploring the undeniable connection between music and mental well-being, this episode shines a light on how melodies can mend and words can heal. Zach McKenzie’s Musical Journey: Zach takes us on a journey through his eclectic musical influences, spanning various genres, and shares how country music’s narrative depth resonates with his soul. From an audition for American Idol to memorable interactions with celebrities like Nicki Minaj, Zach’s anecdotes offer a backstage pass to his life. Music as a Coping Mechanism: Delving into the anxieties that often accompany live performances, Zach discusses how music acts as a crucial coping mechanism, not only for artists on stage but also for individuals facing the challenges of daily life. The Challenges of Touring and Industry Uncertainties: The conversation takes a realistic turn as it addresses the not-so-glamorous aspects of the music industry, including the emotional toll of touring and the uncertainties looming over aspiring artists. Songwriting: A Personal and Subjective Process: Zach provides insight into his songwriting process, emphasizing the subjective nature of music creation and the personal stories that fuel his songs. This segment highlights how music serves as a canvas for both artists and listeners to project their experiences and emotions. The Nostalgic Impact of Music and Future Endeavors: Reflecting on the impact of a significant high school album, Zach and the hosts speculate on new country music releases and the exciting possibility of reuniting with former bandmates. Additionally, Zach shares his aspirations for focusing on his music career and submitting his work to film festivals. Better Help: Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp, you can use my link http://www.betterhelp.com/musicspeaks for 10% off your first month of therapy. Bones Coffee: Get 10% any order on bonescoffee.com with code: MUSICSPEAKS Website @ whenwordsfailmusicspeaks.com YouTube @ whenwordsfailmusicspeaks Facebook @ WWFMSPodcast Instagram @ when_words_fail_podcast Twitter @ WhenWordsFailMS) If you enjoyed this episode, could I ask you to please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcast/iTunes? It takes less than a minute and makes a huge difference in helping to spread the word about the show and also to convince some hard-to-get guests.