The Neurodivergent Musician

In this episode of the Neurodivergent Musician Podcast, Jon Hart, a seasoned fingerstyle singer-songwriter and award-winning events musician, dives into the intricacies of touring for neurodivergent musicians. Join Jon as he shares invaluable insights on pre-tour preparation, sensory considerations, and the importance of routines on the road. Discover effective communication strategies and learn how to advocate for your unique needs. Jon also delves into the role of technology, the power of embracing neurodivergent strengths, and the significance of cultivating a supportive community. As a musician, husband, and father of two, Jon understands the challenges of balancing a music career with family life. He also recognizes the crucial role of financial planning in achieving long-term success. Tune in for expert advice on incorporating self-care and mental health practices into your touring routine, ensuring you stay at the top of your game both on and off the stage. Whether you're a budding artist or an established musician, this episode offers practical tips to enhance your touring experience and grow your music career. Don't miss out on Jon's valuable advice on reflection and continuous learning after each tour. Join us for an episode packed with actionable strategies to help you navigate the world of touring as a neurodivergent musician. For more insightful episodes and resources, visit jonhartmusic.com and follow him on @jonhartmusic. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Support the podcast at jonhartmusic.com/podcast. Let's create, perform, and thrive together! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the complexities of managing depression as a neurodivergent musician? Join us for a heartfelt discussion with Luna Micatar as we navigate the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals dealing with depression. Together, we explore the symptoms of this often misunderstood condition and shed light on effective ways to seek support, implement self-care strategies, and connect with a community to help you manage depression. But that's not all. Discover the transformative power of guitar therapy and the benefits of using open tunings and alternate tunings versus traditional standard tuning – a fresh approach to healing and recovery that might just change your life. We even touch on the idea of taking your instrument outdoors, connecting with nature, and savouring a therapeutic experience unlike any other. So, tune in and let the healing power of music guide you through the complexities of depression and neurodiversity. Thanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc, head to jonhartmusic.com. I'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Join Jon in this insightful episode as he unravels the art of collaboration among neurodivergent musicians. From songwriting to recording and releasing music together, discover the keys to a harmonious creative process. Gain valuable tips on effective communication, setting boundaries, and celebrating individual strengths. Tune in to enhance your collaborative skills and unlock the full potential of your musical endeavours. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

As a neurodivergent musician, I've experienced firsthand how anxiety can interfere with our ability to perform, write music, and communicate with others in the industry. Today, I'm opening up about my own struggles and sharing valuable tips on managing anxiety, such as identifying triggers, practising mindfulness, reaching out for support, and creating a self-care plan. Navigating the challenges of staying true to our identity while making a living in the music world can be tough, and finding a balance between planning and taking action can cause even more anxiety. We'll also explore the impact of external events on our mental health and discuss how white noise and nature sound apps like Tide can help alleviate stress. Join me in this honest conversation about the unique difficulties neurodivergent musicians face and the strategies we can use to manage anxiety. Thanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc, head to jonhartmusic.com. I'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Join host Jon Hart as he explores the world of performance tailored for neurodivergent musicians. In this episode, we'll guide you through setting up, soundchecking, and the art of connecting with your audience. Discover valuable insights to make every performance a memorable one. Tune in to the Neurodivergent Musician Podcast and find your stage presence. Join the community on Facebook - search ⁠Neurodivergent Musicians⁠ Support the podcast at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Do you ever feel like rejection and criticism hit you harder than others? You're not alone. Today, we tackle the often-overlooked issue of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) and its impact on neurodivergent musicians. Together, we'll uncover strategies for managing RSD, such as surrounding ourselves with a supportive network and engaging in positive self-talk, allowing you to continue creating and thriving despite adversity. Being an independent musician is challenging enough, but add neurodivergence and RSD to the mix, and the music industry can seem like a minefield. We'll discuss the difficulties in navigating ticketed gigs, coping with criticism, and the importance of having a strong support system in place. Our guest shares valuable insights into creating a safe space while performing and the power of connecting with others who understand neurodivergence to help mitigate the impact of RSD.Lastly, let's embark on a journey exploring the connection between neurodivergence and music. From undiagnosed to diagnosed, untreated to treated, we'll delve into the challenges of living with a neurodivergent brain and the self-doubt it can breed. By understanding and embracing our neurodivergence, we can empower ourselves and others, building a supportive community that validates our experiences and helps us navigate the challenges presented by RSD. So tune in, and let's grow stronger together! Join the community on Facebook - search ⁠Neurodivergent Musicians⁠ Support the podcast at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

In this episode, host Jon Hart delves into the intricacies of recording and mixing, tailored for neurodivergent musicians. From creating a sensory-friendly recording space to advanced mixing techniques, discover valuable insights to enhance your music production journey. Embrace your neurodivergence as a unique strength, and create music that resonates with your individuality. Tune in for expert tips and a deeper understanding of the recording process. Join the community on Facebook - search ⁠Neurodivergent Musicians⁠ Support the podcast at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Imagine unlocking your true potential as a neurodivergent musician through support, resources, and a deep understanding of your unique strengths and challenges. On this inspiring episode, we chat with John Shortell, Head of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at the Musicians Union, who sheds light on the vital importance of not only supporting neurodivergent musicians but also making the music industry more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Together, we discuss our personal journeys of self-acceptance and growth as neurodivergent individuals, touching on the power of the social model of disability thinking and the barriers we face in our daily lives. We also tackle the Musicians Union's ambitious efforts to create a central hub for advice on neurodiversity, providing valuable resources and a safe space for neurodivergent musicians to share their experiences and challenges. As we delve into the complexities of navigating forms and paperwork as a neurodivergent person, we explore innovative approaches like gamification and visual elements to make these processes more engaging and accessible. Don't miss out on this heartfelt and insightful conversation that highlights the power of collective action in making the music industry an inclusive and supportive space for all. Support the show. Thanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc. head to jonhartmusic.com. I'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

In this illuminating episode of The Neurodivergent Musician Podcast, hosted by Jon Hart, we explore the world of songwriting and composing through the lens of neurodivergence. We kickstart our journey by celebrating our unique neurodivergent identity, a powerful gift that infuses our creative process with innovation and ingenuity. Drawing insights from psychology, we delve into how our diverse thought patterns enrich the tapestry of music we create. Moving forward, we delve into the science of inspiration, taking a deep dive into the intricacies of our neurodivergent brains. Neuroscience has unveiled that our exceptional minds excel in recognizing patterns and forming connections. These innate abilities become the wellspring of captivating melodies and harmonies that enthrall our audiences. Crafting a distinct sound palette is our next destination. Here, we draw from psychology and explore the fascinating world of synesthesia, where sensory sensitivities manifest in the exquisite layering of emotions within our compositions. As neurodivergent musicians, our unique perspectives give rise to music that transcends traditional boundaries, resonating deeply with both ourselves and our listeners. Join the community on Facebook - search Neurodivergent Musicians Support the podcast at jonhartmusic.com/podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

In this captivating highlight, the incredibly talented Jon Gomm joins me for an enlightening conversation focused on the experiences of neurodivergent musicians. Together, we explore a multitude of aspects related to living as neurodivergent artists. The conversation flows freely, touching upon various intriguing topics. It's truly awesome to engage in this dynamic and thought-provoking exchange with Jon! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

As creators who wear multiple hats, from crafting melodies that touch the soul to mastering intricate techniques that captivate audiences, we've all encountered the elusive spectre of procrastination. Join us as we explore the intricate dance between creativity and procrastination and how being neurodivergent might influence our experiences. Support the podcast ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ Join the community ⁠⁠here⁠ In this episode, we dissect the art of postponing tasks and the impact it can have on our creative growth. We'll uncover the unique challenges that neurodivergent individuals might face when battling procrastination, from seeking novelty to grappling with perfectionism. But fear not, for this episode isn't just about identifying the problem; it's about equipping ourselves with practical strategies to combat procrastination. From breaking tasks into manageable steps to creating structured schedules that accommodate both focus and spontaneity, we'll discover ways to harmonize our creative processes with our unique neurodivergent traits. Accountability becomes our guiding light, as we explore how sharing our goals and progress with others can provide the external motivation we need to stay on track. And as we embrace the balance between enthusiasm and thoughtful planning, we'll find a path that allows us to navigate procrastination with grace and understanding. Tune in to gain insights into your own creative journey and to discover how to cultivate mindful progress amid the ebb and flow of procrastination. As always, this episode is a reflection of our shared experiences as neurodivergent musicians, crafted with the intention to empower, uplift, and inspire. So, join us on this exploration, and let's create a symphony of growth together. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that can result from prolonged stress and overwork. It can make you feel overwhelmed, drained, and cynical, and it can affect your productivity, motivation, and overall well-being. Burnout can happen to anyone, but it's especially common among individuals who work high-pressure jobs or experience chronic stress and anxiety. Support the podcast here Join the community here --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician Podcast, host Jon Hart takes us on a captivating journey through the intricate world of impulsivity. Join us as we delve into the core of what impulsivity is, why understanding it matters, and how we can master the art of managing its diverse manifestations in our lives. From impulsive decisions in music creation and career choices to the dynamics of relationships and coping with addiction, Jon sheds light on the positives and pitfalls of impulsivity. Discover how this trait weaves its threads through various aspects of our lives and explore strategies to harness its power while staying grounded. Tune in for an insightful exploration of impulsivity's impact on our unique neurodivergent journeys. Don't forget to join our vibrant community on Facebook. Let's connect and share our experiences as we navigate the exciting world of music and neurodiversity. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

What if you could break free from the unpredictability of streaming platforms and gain control over your music career? This episode is a trip down memory lane, back to 2014, when we first dipped our toes into the world of crowdfunding with the launch of Rocketfuel. We share the pragmatism behind this move, how its predictability made it enticing, and how it turned out to be a successful venture for many artists.The episode also tackles the complicated world of streaming platforms and their gated communities. We take you through the hurdles of converting listeners to a main list, revealing the power of having control over your data and using platforms like email marketing to guarantee attention. We introduce you to the concept of the 'five circle funnel', guiding artists from attracting a crowd to creating a core of paying supporters. Rocketfuel's potential to make this possible is vividly illustrated. Tune in for a deep-dive into the music industry's trials and tribulations, our experiences, and how to make crowdfunding work for you.Support the showThanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc head to jonhartmusic.comI'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Ever felt like your emotions are a runaway train when you're creating music? You're not alone, especially if you're a neurodivergent musician. That's emotional dysregulation, and it can affect your artistry in profound ways. Let's take a heart-to-heart walk through the complexities of emotional dysregulation, exploring how it can amplify the music-making process and even intensify our insecurities. As someone who has experienced these passionate states, I’ll share my personal journey and strategies that can help harness this energy into creating meaningful and authentic music. The voyage doesn't stop at understanding emotional dysregulation. We also need to find our balance in an often discordant world. Every neurodivergent musician navigates a unique set of sensitivities and experiences that can lead to feelings of disconnection. It's crucial to realize that this is a part of our journey and not a hindrance. So, let's talk about how to cope with the frustration of grasping concepts beyond our known sphere, and discuss the importance of gaining a bird's eye view on our emotional states. Here's to all the neurodivergent musicians out there, finding their balance between reactivity and mindfulness, and creating a symphony of emotions through their music. Tune in!Support the showThanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc head to jonhartmusic.comI'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Strap in for an emotional rollercoaster as our guest takes you through the highs and lows of a music career, intertwined with the challenges posed by a neurodivergent brain. From the monotony of teaching 30 hours a week, to the thrill of exploring the events market and collaborating with fellow musicians, this episode is a gripping tale of resilience, creativity, and the sheer love for music. Hear firsthand how the joy of musicianship can sometimes be overshadowed by the trials of leadership within a band, and the dream of performing at monumental stages like Glastonbury.Transitioning to a solo career might seem like regaining control, but it isn't without its own set of hurdles. Our guest shares candidly about it all - the joy of being a wedding musician with multiple bookings a year, the tough times when things crash, and the necessity of starting anew, like moving to an online platform. It's not all about the glitz and glamour, but the grit and determination that carries a musician through. The story of our neurodivergent guest doesn't shy away from the hard truths, giving listeners a rare insight into the different aspects of a music career. Tune in for this emotional, honest, and inspiring journey.Support the showThanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc head to jonhartmusic.comI'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Ever wonder how neurodivergent musicians navigate the journey of their craft, particularly with the challenges of executive function? What if you could unlock the strategies that help manage these hurdles and lead to a successful music career? This episode of Neurodivergent Musician sheds light on these questions, giving you a front-row seat to a conversation that unravels the complexities of the musical journey through a neurodivergent lens. From struggles with consistency in practice to difficulties with focus, time management, and organization, we leave no stone unturned.Imagine executive function as the conductor of our mental orchestra, gently guiding us along our creative journey. But when the conductor has a different neurological script, the journey isn't always straightforward. We dive into the heart of the matter, discussing challenges neurodivergent musicians face, such as task initiation, follow through on commitments, and self-monitoring. We also highlight practical strategies such as creating a structured routine, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and harnessing the power of visuals. But we go beyond the hurdles, offering a beacon of hope and resilience. We touch on the importance of mental health, the battle against overwhelm, and the pursuit of balance. We emphasize the value of self-awareness, positivity, and self-compassion when dealing with additional responsibilities and pressures. Furthermore, we delve into the merits of having a support network and share resources such as project management tools and visual aids. By the end of our discourse, you'll have a wealth of insights, whether you're a neurodivergent musician or someone looking to understand and support one. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of neurodivergent musicians.Support the showThanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc head to jonhartmusic.comI'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Ever felt like a square peg in a round hole? That was my school experience as a neurodivergent individual. I was constantly misunderstood, under immense pressure to conform to neurotypical learning methods. This podcast rewind takes you back to those challenging times, revealing how fidgeting in class and looking out the window was more than just me being 'naughty.' It sheds light on my unconventional journey through a system that wasn't designed for learners like me.Why did I always gravitate towards the music department? Because music was my language, my means of communication and expression when words failed me. It provided a sense of solace, a break from the pressures of trying to fit into a mould that didn't understand me. Hear about my trials with impulsive talking, my struggle to read music as a dyslexic individual, and a touching encounter with my grandfather that would change my life. This isn't just about my past; it's a call to reassess how we view neurodivergent children and a testament to the power of music in navigating a neurotypical world. Tune in and let's change the narrative together.Support the showThanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc head to jonhartmusic.comI'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Experience a journey through the labyrinth of social cues as we, your hosts, unpack the challenges faced by neurodivergent musicians. This episode serves as a compass, pointing you towards strategies that improve understanding and navigation of this complex form of communication. We emphasize the importance of practising self-compassion and striving to educate others about the unique lens through which we perceive social signals. We believe that embracing our distinctive perspectives can transform social interactions from daunting to enriching.Ever felt overwhelmed by social interactions? You're not alone. We explore practical techniques to cope with social anxiety and to improve communication. Learn about the power of pausing and reflecting, using soundscapes and double breaths, and the importance of seeking clarification. We provide recommendations and insights on how you can increase your comfort level with social interactions through regular practice and support.Finally, we share actionable strategies for managing social cues, such as the "traffic light system" and utilizing fidget toys as coping mechanisms. As neurodivergent musicians, having a supportive system is crucial. We present ideas on how to develop this system and emphasize the importance of hydration before, during, and after social situations. Understanding social cues may be a symphony filled with intricate melodies, but together, we can harmonize our unique tunes in this social interaction orchestra. Tune in and let's master this art together.Support the showThanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc head to jonhartmusic.comI'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message

Strap in for a ride into the fast-paced mind of a neurodivergent musician as we unearth the hidden struggles of juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. This episode promises you a glimpse into the minds of neurodivergent musicians, sharing the poignant metaphor of life's stressors being like bubbles in a bath - each stressor adds a bubble until the bath is full, and even the smallest addition can make it overflow.Have you ever wondered what it's like to have a Ferrari for a brain, but with bicycle brakes? Well, our journey takes us into the inner workings of a neurodivergent mind, exploring the whirlwind of constant movement and seldom at rest. As we navigate through the daily struggles of balancing family, work, and personal aspirations, we uncover how the relentless pressure often leads to overwhelm and procrastination, especially during periods of supposed relaxation. Tune in, this conversation is sure to resonate with many.Support the showThanks so much for listening. Follow / DM me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for music and podcast updates. If you want to get in touch with your thoughts, suggestions etc head to jonhartmusic.comI'd love to hear from you and help build this community. If you know other neurodivergent musicians (or musicians who may be curious) please do share around. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theneurodivergentmusician/message