The Tragedy Academy

Resilience and Creativity: A Conversation with Dani Meza of The Crushed Velvets

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Dani Meza of The Crushed Velvets to explore the transformative journey of overcoming personal adversity and reigniting creative passion. 🎙️
Join Jay and Dani as they delve deep into Dani’s inspiring story of resilience and artistic rebirth. From battling serious health challenges to navigating the evolving music industry, Dani shares his unique perspective on maintaining authenticity in a world obsessed with conformity. 🎸✨
Throughout the conversation, they discuss the importance of embracing one’s true self, the power of collaboration in the creative process, and the profound impact of finding a light from within. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or someone seeking motivation to overcome your own struggles, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt moments that will leave you feeling empowered and inspired. 🌟🔥
Dani’s candid reflections and Jay’s engaging style create a dynamic and uplifting dialogue that highlights the essence of The Tragedy Academy’s mission: to celebrate the human spirit’s ability to triumph over adversity with empathy and humor. Don’t miss this captivating episode filled with wisdom, laughter, and the unwavering pursuit of passion. 🎧💬
Key Takeaways:🎤 Overcoming Adversity: Dani discusses his battle with an aneurysm and two strokes, highlighting the profound impact these challenges had on his life and identity.🎸 Authentic Collaboration: The importance of allowing fellow musicians to bring their unique creativity to the table without imposing rigid control, leading to more authentic and refreshing music.💡 Embracing Silence: Dani shares his preference for meaningful interactions over small talk and introduces a unique way to connect through playing card games, easing social awkwardness.🌱 Finding Light from Within: Exploring how Dani reignited his passion for music by tapping into his inner creativity and overcoming the mental barriers that once held him back.🎶 Capturing the Moment: The significance of recording music authentically, preserving the raw emotion and spontaneity that makes each performance unique and memorable.
Guest Bio:Dani Meza, a multi-instrumentalist from Southern California, has been a staple in the music scene for over a decade. Known for his soulful sound and dramatic performances, Meza has captivated audiences with his unique style. His past projects include Blackstrap Molasses and Dani & The Scarlett Fevers, which performed at major festivals like Desert Daze and Moon Block Party and shared the stage with notable acts such as Ty Segall, Blake Miller (Moving Units), and Deap Vally. After overcoming life-threatening medical conditions in 2016, he embraced a new perspective, transforming his approach to music and performance. Meza’s current project, the Crushed Velvets, is a testament to his artistic evolution. Working with acclaimed producer Chris Schlarb at Big Ego Studios in Long Beach, California, Meza and his carefully selected group of collaborators released their first full-length album, “I Planted, Apollos Watered, But God Kept Making It Grow,” in October 2024. Additionally, the group released a live in-studio EP in 2023 (“Live In Studio”), which included a vibey rendition of T. Rex’s “Mambo Sun”, and three EPs in 2022 (“Stun Gun”, “Dig To Me”, “Intertwined”). The Crushed Velvets draw inspiration from legends like Al Green, Marvin Gaye, and Serge Gainsbourg, creating a nostalgic and fresh sound. His cool, understated vibe is evident in both his recordings and live shows, marking a bold new era in his career. With plans to immerse himself in international music scenes and collaborate globally, Meza is committed to writing and releasing music as much as possible. As he continues this journey, one thing is certain: Dani Meza is all in. 🎤🎶
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to s ubscribe to The Tragedy Academy Podcast, leave us a review, and share it with your friends! Your support helps us continue to bring you inspiring stories of resilience and triumph. 🌟📲 Be cool and keep learning! 😎📚
Want to learn more about Dani Meza and his music? Visit his website, follow him on Instagram, and check out his latest album on all major streaming platforms. 🎧🔥 Don’t miss out on his incredible journey and upcoming projects! 🚀🎸
Thank you for tuning into this powerful episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast. We hope Dani’s story has inspired you to embrace your authenticity and pursue your passions with unwavering determination. 🌟 Be cool and keep learning! 😎📘
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our favorite reads! https://bit.ly/42pPHcv✅ Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
📱 Follow Us:Instagram: https://instagram.com/tragedyacademystudios.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/tragedyacademystudiosTwitter: https://twitter.com/TragedyacademystudiosTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@tragedyacademystudios
💖 Support Us: Please help us continue bringing meaningful content by donating via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG or Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy.

Resilience and Creativity: A Conversation with Dani Meza of The Crushed Velvets

Resilience and Creativity: A Conversation with Dani Meza of The Crushed Velvets
In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Dani Meza of The Crushed Velvets to explore the transformative journey of overcoming personal adversity and reigniting creative passion. 🎙️
Join Jay and Dani as they delve deep into Dani’s inspiring story of resilience and artistic rebirth. From battling serious health challenges to navigating the evolving music industry, Dani shares his unique perspective on maintaining authenticity in a world obsessed with conformity. 🎸✨
Throughout the conversation, they discuss the importance of embracing one’s true self, the power of collaboration in the creative process, and the profound impact of finding a light from within. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or someone seeking motivation to overcome your own struggles, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt moments that will leave you feeling empowered and inspired. 🌟🔥
Dani’s candid reflections and Jay’s engaging style create a dynamic and uplifting dialogue that highlights the essence of The Tragedy Academy’s mission: to celebrate the human spirit’s ability to triumph over adversity with empathy and humor. Don’t miss this captivating episode filled with wisdom, laughter, and the unwavering pursuit of passion. 🎧💬
Key Takeaways:🎤 Overcoming Adversity: Dani discusses his battle with an aneurysm and two strokes, highlighting the profound impact these challenges had on his life and identity.🎸 Authentic Collaboration: The importance of allowing fellow musicians to bring their unique creativity to the table without imposing rigid control, leading to more authentic and refreshing music.💡 Embracing Silence: Dani shares his preference for meaningful interactions over small talk and introduces a unique way to connect through playing card games, easing social awkwardness.🌱 Finding Light from Within: Exploring how Dani reignited his passion for music by tapping into his inner creativity and overcoming the mental barriers that once held him back.🎶 Capturing the Moment: The significance of recording music authentically, preserving the raw emotion and spontaneity that makes each performance unique and memorable.
Guest Bio:Dani Meza, a multi-instrumentalist from Southern California, has been a staple in the music scene for over a decade. Known for his soulful sound and dramatic performances, Meza has captivated audiences with his unique style. His past projects include Blackstrap Molasses and Dani & The Scarlett Fevers, which performed at major festivals like Desert Daze and Moon Block Party and shared the stage with notable acts such as Ty Segall, Blake Miller (Moving Units), and Deap Vally. After overcoming life-threatening medical conditions in 2016, he embraced a new perspective, transforming his approach to music and performance. Meza’s current project, the Crushed Velvets, is a testament to his artistic evolution. Working with acclaimed producer Chris Schlarb at Big Ego Studios in Long Beach, California, Meza and his carefully selected group of collaborators released their first full-length album, “I Planted, Apollos Watered, But God Kept Making It Grow,” in October 2024. Additionally, the group released a live in-studio EP in 2023 (“Live In Studio”), which included a vibey rendition of T. Rex’s “Mambo Sun”, and three EPs in 2022 (“Stun Gun”, “Dig To Me”, “Intertwined”). The Crushed Velvets draw inspiration from legends like Al Green, Marvin Gaye, and Serge Gainsbourg, creating a nostalgic and fresh sound. His cool, understated vibe is evident in both his recordings and live shows, marking a bold new era in his career. With plans to immerse himself in international music scenes and collaborate globally, Meza is committed to writing and releasing music as much as possible. As he continues this journey, one thing is certain: Dani Meza is all in. 🎤🎶
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to s ubscribe to The Tragedy Academy Podcast, leave us a review, and share it with your friends! Your support helps us continue to bring you inspiring stories of resilience and triumph. 🌟📲 Be cool and keep learning! 😎📚
Want to learn more about Dani Meza and his music? Visit his website, follow him on Instagram, and check out his latest album on all major streaming platforms. 🎧🔥 Don’t miss out on his incredible journey and upcoming projects! 🚀🎸
Thank you for tuning into this powerful episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast. We hope Dani’s story has inspired you to embrace your authenticity and pursue your passions with unwavering determination. 🌟 Be cool and keep learning! 😎📘
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our favorite reads! https://bit.ly/42pPHcv✅ Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
📱 Follow Us:Instagram: https://instagram.com/tragedyacademystudios.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/tragedyacademystudiosTwitter: https://twitter.com/TragedyacademystudiosTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@tragedyacademystudios
💖 Support Us: Please help us continue bringing meaningful content by donating via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG or Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy.

Jessica Baladad: How Self-Advocacy & AI are Revolutionizing Breast Cancer Awareness

In this episode, Jay speaks with Jessica Baladad, a six-year breast cancer survivor and the creator of Feel For Your Life—a groundbreaking app providing tools for breast self-exams, health tracking, and AI-based pathology interpretations.
Key Points:🎙 Jessica shares her inspiring journey of survival, advocacy, and innovation, discussing: ✅Why self-exams save lives and how to perform them💡Navigating a broken healthcare system 🧠How AI is changing the way breast cancer is diagnosed📚Her fight for legislation to educate teens on self-exams💪Overcoming shame, fear, and embracing empowerment
About Jessica: Jessica Baladad, a six-year cancer survivor, is the creator of Feel For Your Life. This free mobile application provides resources on how to perform self-breast exams and when to get screenings while allowing users to track and monitor their changes and set reminders. An unexpected breast cancer diagnosis at 33 years old empowered Jessica to channel her experience into a mission that is changing the way women advocate for their medical care. It’s the first of its kind created by a breast cancer patient and has been downloaded tens of thousands of times all over the world. In 2024, Jessica implemented an AI feature into the app to help patients interpret and better understand pathology reports from their breast cancer screenings. Jessica’s history with breast cancer catalyzed her dedication to building Feel For Your Life. She’s the fourth generation on her paternal side of the family to be diagnosed with the disease, and yet, no known gene mutation has been found in her lineage. She first learned how to do a self-breast exam after having a benign tumor removed at 18, and nearly 15 years later, Jessica was diagnosed with Stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma after performing a routine self-exam in the shower. She underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, 24 rounds of radiation, a hysterectomy, and a 10-hour flap reconstruction.
Since launching the app, Jessica has expanded her advocacy into healthcare reform. She has helped write legislation in Tennessee to promote risk-reducing measures against cancer and disease. Billed as the Feel For Your Life Act, high school students are required to learn about self-breast exams, testicular exams, and skin exams. Additionally, Jessica has spoken out against insurance companies before members of Congress. She works to eliminate quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) scores, Pharmacy Benefits Managers (PBMs), and co-pay accumulators. Jessica plans to grow her efforts further by working with medical providers, patients, and vendors to bridge the gaps that keep individuals from getting access to the care they deserve.
Jessica has been featured on Good Morning America, Tank’s Good News, USA Today, The Dave Ramsey Show, UpWorthy, and several national and international media outlets. She’s worked with the NFL on their Crucial Catch Campaign to promote cancer screenings, received the Hometown Hero Award from Ponce Law on Nashville’s Fox 17, has been recognized by the National Breast Cancer Foundation for her leadership initiatives, and was the recipient of the Mona Lisa Foundation Grant in 2023. In 2020, the NFL’s Crucial Catch Campaign partnered with Jessica to spread awareness about the importance of screenings being missed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She is an active Tennessee Advocate for Breast Cancer (TA4BC) group committee member.
When Jessica is not working on patient advocacy, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places, attending sporting events with her husband, and photographing animals.
📱 Listen now to gain wisdom, inspiration, and actionable steps to advocate for your health.Download the Feel For Your Life app and take control of your care.👉 Follow us for more stories of resilience and growth:
🎧 Links and Support:Feel For Your Life AppWebsite: feelforyourlife.comSocials: @feelForYourLife💖 Be Cool & Keep Learning.
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our favorite reads! https://bit.ly/42pPHcv✅ Subscribe:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
📱 Follow Us:Instagram:https://instagram.com/tragedyacademystudios.comFacebook:https://facebook.com/tragedyacademystudiosTwitter:https://twitter.com/TragedyacademystudiosTikTok:https://tiktok.com/@tragedyacademystudios
💖 Support Us: Please help us continue bringing meaningful content by donating via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG or Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy.
Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our favorite reads! https://bit.ly/42pPHcv✅ Subscribe:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
📱 Follow Us:Instagram:https://instagram.com/tragedyacademystudios.comFacebook:https://facebook.com/tragedyacademystudiosTwitter:https://twitter.com/TragedyacademystudiosTikTok:https://tiktok.com/@tragedyacademystudios
💖 Support Us: Please help us continue bringing meaningful content by donating via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG or Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy.

Jessica Baladad: How Self-Advocacy & AI are Revolutionizing Breast Cancer Awareness

In this episode, Jay speaks with Jessica Baladad, a six-year breast cancer survivor and the creator of Feel For Your Life—a groundbreaking app providing tools for breast self-exams, health tracking, and AI-based pathology interpretations.
Key Points:🎙 Jessica shares her inspiring journey of survival, advocacy, and innovation, discussing: ✅Why self-exams save lives and how to perform them💡Navigating a broken healthcare system 🧠How AI is changing the way breast cancer is diagnosed📚Her fight for legislation to educate teens on self-exams💪Overcoming shame, fear, and embracing empowerment
About Jessica: Jessica Baladad, a six-year cancer survivor, is the creator of Feel For Your Life. This free mobile application provides resources on how to perform self-breast exams and when to get screenings while allowing users to track and monitor their changes and set reminders. An unexpected breast cancer diagnosis at 33 years old empowered Jessica to channel her experience into a mission that is changing the way women advocate for their medical care. It’s the first of its kind created by a breast cancer patient and has been downloaded tens of thousands of times all over the world. In 2024, Jessica implemented an AI feature into the app to help patients interpret and better understand pathology reports from their breast cancer screenings. Jessica’s history with breast cancer catalyzed her dedication to building Feel For Your Life. She’s the fourth generation on her paternal side of the family to be diagnosed with the disease, and yet, no known gene mutation has been found in her lineage. She first learned how to do a self-breast exam after having a benign tumor removed at 18, and nearly 15 years later, Jessica was diagnosed with Stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma after performing a routine self-exam in the shower. She underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, 24 rounds of radiation, a hysterectomy, and a 10-hour flap reconstruction.
Since launching the app, Jessica has expanded her advocacy into healthcare reform. She has helped write legislation in Tennessee to promote risk-reducing measures against cancer and disease. Billed as the Feel For Your Life Act, high school students are required to learn about self-breast exams, testicular exams, and skin exams. Additionally, Jessica has spoken out against insurance companies before members of Congress. She works to eliminate quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) scores, Pharmacy Benefits Managers (PBMs), and co-pay accumulators. Jessica plans to grow her efforts further by working with medical providers, patients, and vendors to bridge the gaps that keep individuals from getting access to the care they deserve.
Jessica has been featured on Good Morning America, Tank’s Good News, USA Today, The Dave Ramsey Show, UpWorthy, and several national and international media outlets. She’s worked with the NFL on their Crucial Catch Campaign to promote cancer screenings, received the Hometown Hero Award from Ponce Law on Nashville’s Fox 17, has been recognized by the National Breast Cancer Foundation for her leadership initiatives, and was the recipient of the Mona Lisa Foundation Grant in 2023. In 2020, the NFL’s Crucial Catch Campaign partnered with Jessica to spread awareness about the importance of screenings being missed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She is an active Tennessee Advocate for Breast Cancer (TA4BC) group committee member.
When Jessica is not working on patient advocacy, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places, attending sporting events with her husband, and photographing animals.
📱 Listen now to gain wisdom, inspiration, and actionable steps to advocate for your health.Download the Feel For Your Life app and take control of your care.👉 Follow us for more stories of resilience and growth:
🎧 Links and Support:Feel For Your Life AppWebsite: feelforyourlife.comSocials: @feelForYourLife💖 Be Cool & Keep Learning.
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our favorite reads! https://bit.ly/42pPHcv✅ Subscribe:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
📱 Follow Us:Instagram:https://instagram.com/tragedyacademystudios.comFacebook:https://facebook.com/tragedyacademystudiosTwitter:https://twitter.com/TragedyacademystudiosTikTok:https://tiktok.com/@tragedyacademystudios
💖 Support Us: Please help us continue bringing meaningful content by donating via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG or Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy.
Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM: https://bit.ly/431MLD5📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our favorite reads! https://bit.ly/42pPHcv✅ Subscribe:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
📱 Follow Us:Instagram:https://instagram.com/tragedyacademystudios.comFacebook:https://facebook.com/tragedyacademystudiosTwitter:https://twitter.com/TragedyacademystudiosTikTok:https://tiktok.com/@tragedyacademystudios
💖 Support Us: Please help us continue bringing meaningful content by donating via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMU9L4TBWX6AG or Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tragedyacademy.

Authenticity in Action: Zelda Khan Black on Overcoming Challenges in Voice Acting

🎙️ In this powerful episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay welcomes the multi-talented Zelda Khan Black for an insightful conversation about voice acting, mental health, and embracing authenticity in the entertainment industry. Zelda dives deep into her journey as a voice actor, author, and artist, sharing how she’s navigated adversity and found strength through self-expression and community support. 🌟
📚 Zelda opens up about her personal challenges, including recovering her voice after a life-altering gas leak and confronting industry pressures to conform to stereotypes. Her resilience and dedication to staying true to herself shine throughout this compelling discussion. From her creative beginnings to her current successes, Zelda shares valuable lessons about overcoming obstacles, embracing individuality, and fostering meaningful connections in the creative world. 🎭
 
Key Takeaways:
🎧 Community is Key (00:58:23): Zelda emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system in the voice-acting world.
🎭 Navigating Industry Stereotypes (00:14:56): Zelda shares how she resisted pressure to change her identity to fit expectations.
🧠 The Mental Toll of Acting (00:21:56): Insight into managing the emotional demands of embodying complex characters.
🌱 Growth Through Challenges (00:33:29): How Zelda rebuilt her life and career after personal setbacks, including losing her “bread and butter” mic.
💡 Creative Freedom (00:56:12): The joy of authenticity and how embracing individuality leads to creative success.
 
Guest Bio:
 
🎭 Zelda Khan Black is a dynamic force in Los Angeles—an accomplished voice actress, mental health advocate, and poet. Initially a TikTok influencer, her journey led her to break free from her small-town roots in New York. Now, in the heart of LA, she is passionately navigating the realms of authorship and acting, making her mark with a captivating debut in the indie animation "Project Parasomnia." Black, a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, recently unveiled her second poetry masterpiece, "The Letters She'll Never Read," crafting poignant verses that resonate with the intricacies of queer love.
🎧 Tune in to Zelda’s inspiring story and learn how to embrace your authentic self, even in the face of challenges. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Tragedy Academy Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with friends! 🌟 Be cool and keep learning. 💫
 
🔗 Visit Zelda at zeldakhanblack.com and follow her on Instagram @ZeldaKhanB for more updates and content.
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with https://bit.ly/3LSCBh5
📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM https://bit.ly/3ImjNWD
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📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our favorite reads! https://bit.ly/42pPHcv
✅ Subscribe:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUXqlregig6vcrvuVNGlKg
 
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Amplifying Authenticity with Chuck Duran: Voice Acting, Rock Sugar, and Living Your Best Life

In this electrifying episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Chuck Duran, the mastermind behind Demos That Rock and the co-host of the acclaimed VO Buzz Weekly. Chuck’s expertise as a voice acting demo producer and his unforgettable journey as a musician with Rock Sugar provides an unparalleled lens into creativity, authenticity, and the power of perseverance. 🎙️✨
Chuck shares his insights on amplifying authenticity, why embracing who you are can lead to breakthroughs, and the unexpected stories behind his viral mashup band, Rock Sugar. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a creative professional, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated and ready to rock your path. 🎸🔥
 
Key Takeaways:
🎤 [00:04:15] Amplifying authenticity is the key to unlocking your unique potential.
🌟 [00:06:30] Collaboration and generosity in creative industries can create profound opportunities.
🎶 [00:47:37] How Rock Sugar’s viral success redefined the mashup genre and led to opening for legends like Aerosmith and Def Leppard.
🤝 [00:20:45] Genuine connections can help you flourish—embrace kindness and curiosity.
🚀 [00:43:17] Action is the bridge between you and your dreams—face the walls and walk through them.
 
Chuck Duran is a leading voice-acting demo producer based in Los Angeles and the founder of Demos That Rock, where he crafts industry-standard voiceover demos. As co-host of VO Buzz Weekly, Chuck shares invaluable insights and interviews with top talent in the voiceover world. Beyond his work in voiceover, Chuck is a musician and co-founder of the viral sensation Rock Sugar, a band that blends iconic rock and pop hits into unforgettable mashups.
 
Don’t miss this compelling conversation with Chuck Duran, a creative powerhouse who embodies authenticity and innovation. Tune in, subscribe, and share this episode with your friends—because everyone needs a bit of inspiration to amplify their lives. 🎧✨
Be sure to follow Chuck and explore his work:
Demos That Rock: Demos that Rock
VO Buzz Weekly: VO Buzz Weekly
Rock Sugar: YouTube - Rock Sugar Band
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with Podpage
📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM
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Hakeem Javaid: Viewing Time Through the Lens of Extuity

In this powerful episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks sits down with the inspiring Hakeem Javaid to explore how personal growth, resilience, and the nature of time itself intersect. They dive deep into Hakeem’s transformative journey and his groundbreaking ideas about time as energy, self-limiting beliefs, and the lenses through which we view the world. Prepare for a mind-expanding conversation that challenges conventional wisdom while offering practical insights for your journey. 🎙️
Summary:
From breaking physical barriers to uncovering deep truths about time and energy, Hakeem shares how a life-changing injury led him to redefine his perspective on existence. 💡 His story is a testament to the power of resilience and curiosity in overcoming challenges and embracing personal authenticity.
Jay and Hakeem delve into the concept of time dilation and how the flow of energy relates to our perception of reality. Whether discussing quantum physics, hyper-focus, or how human connections shape our journey, their conversation offers a fascinating mix of science, spirituality, and self-discovery.
Tune in for thought-provoking moments and actionable advice on seeing past your limitations, breaking through mental barriers, and stepping into your infinite potential. 🌟
Key Takeaways:
🧠 [00:23:44] Time as energy: How breaking an arm became a gateway to deeper understanding.
🔄 [00:31:03] Aphantasia and perspectives: Why the theater of the mind shapes our unique realities.
✨ [00:45:48] Time dilation explained: How physics supports the elastic nature of our perceptions.
🌍 [00:53:30] Timeless connections: What tribes can teach us about bridging the gap between birth and death.
🌌 [01:05:30] Looking forward: Why redefining memory and future possibilities matters.
 
Guest Bio:
Hakeem is a trailblazing thinker, entrepreneur, and author of the book Extuity. His groundbreaking work challenges how we perceive time, offering a fresh lens on the human experience. From building innovative tech to unraveling the mysteries of consciousness, Hakeem’s multifaceted journey bridges science, spirituality, and personal growth.
🌟 Join the journey of discovery!
Subscribe to The Tragedy Academy Podcast on your favorite platform, leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, and share this episode with friends ready to challenge their perceptions and embrace infinite possibilities.
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Dive deeper into Hakeem’s revolutionary ideas by grabbing his book Extuity, available on Amazon and Extuity.com. Follow his journey and explore his groundbreaking work in tech and human consciousness.
🌟 Unlock your potential and break free from limiting beliefs.
www.Extuity.com
Conclusion:
Hakeem’s story reminds us that the barriers we face can be doorways to transformation. Tune in next week for another compelling episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast. 🎧
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Bridging Spirituality and Science with Crystal Cassidy

In this transformative episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, host Jay Hicks sits down with Crystal Cassidy, CEO and founder of SoulPod, a mobile app for spiritual wellness. Crystal’s remarkable journey blends the worlds of science and spirituality, offering a fresh perspective on how these realms intersect with over two decades of pharmaceutical experience and a deep connection to spiritual practices like Reiki, meditation, and martial arts, Crystal shares how science and spirituality complement each other in unlocking human potential.
The conversation touches on how meditation transforms the mind, the challenges and rewards of spiritual practices, and the science behind it all, including neuroscience and quantum physics. Crystal also introduces SoulPod, her app designed to create a community-driven approach to spiritual awakening.
 
🎧 Tune in for an inspiring discussion on:
•How science and spirituality intersect 🌌
•Crystal’s awakening and insights 🔮
•Meditation tips and its transformative power 🧘
•The role of neuroscience and quantum physics in spirituality 🧠
•How SoulPod is building a supportive community for spiritual seekers 🤝
 
🕒 Chapters
00:00 – 🎙️ Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast
01:38 – Crystal’s Journey: Merging Science and Spirituality 🔬✨
03:01 – Meditation Insights and Practices 🧘
05:41 – The Challenges and Rewards of Meditation 💡
10:25 – Personal Experiences with Kundalini 🌈
21:08 – The Infinite Process of Awakening 🚪
24:45 – Sliding Between Realities 🔄
26:55 – Time Traveling and Worry ⏳
28:13 – Self-Love and Meditation ❤️🧘
29:26 – Energy Centers and Kundalini 🌟
30:42 – Personal Spiritual Experiences 🌌
34:43 – Quantum Physics and Consciousness 🧠
40:24 – Curiosity and Meditation Tips 🤔🧘
44:09 – Introducing SoulPod 📱✨
48:26 – Final Thoughts and Farewell 👋
 
🌟 About Crystal Cassidy
Crystal Cassidy is the CEO and founder of SoulPod, a soulfulness app fostering a community-driven spiritual awakening journey. After a near-death experience, Crystal’s path accelerated, leading her to embrace the potential of the human spirit as a powerful tool for personal and collective evolution.
With a background in biochemistry and two decades of experience in cutting-edge biotechnology, Crystal bridges the gap between science and mysticism. Her spiritual journey began at age 12 during her training as a martial artist and evolved into becoming a certified Reiki Master, breathwork facilitator, meditation guide, and kundalini yoga instructor.
Mission: “We are all spiritual scientists, discovering bold new ways to evolve our consciousness. As we grow, we look beside us and behind us to help others along the path of life.”
 
🎙️ Don’t miss this insightful episode filled with inspiration, wisdom, and tools for your spiritual journey!
🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
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🎙️ Transforming Teenage Lives: A Conversation with Austin Davis 🎙️

In this episode of The Tragedy Academy Podcast, Jay sits down with Austin Davis, a teenage behavioral health and addiction recovery visionary with over 20 years of experience. Austin shares his journey from Dallas-Fort Worth to becoming a leader in adolescent treatment. Together, they explore the unique challenges of working with teens, the powerful impact of social media, and the importance of purpose in young lives.
Austin reveals the innovative aspects of his treatment program, which emphasizes family systems and faith-based support. He discusses the critical role of identity formation and how small victories (“micro-wins”) can build momentum in recovery. This episode is packed with insights for anyone supporting a young person in crisis or seeking to understand adolescent mental health.
 
🔑 Key Topics Covered:
Austin’s journey to addiction recovery work
Social media’s effect on today’s youth 📱
Faith and family systems in treatment 🙏
The power of “micro-wins” and building confidence 💪
How identity and self-worth shape recovery 🌱
🕒 Chapters:
00:00 – 🎧 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy
00:06 – Meet Austin Davis: Visionary in Teenage Behavioral Health 👥
00:24 – Austin’s Journey: From Dallas to Addiction Recovery 🌆
00:48 – Finding Purpose: The Calling to Help Youth ❤️
01:26 – The Impact of Social Media on Youth 📲
04:54 – Unique Approaches in Adolescent Treatment 💡
06:29 – Faith and Recovery: A Holistic Approach 🙌
19:45 – Core Values in Treatment 💖
23:06 – Treating Your Inner Self with Kindness 🤗
24:00 – The Proverbial Piece of Rope 🪢
25:18 – Micro Wins and Building Momentum 🏆
28:24 – Addressing Shame and Identity 😌
31:19 – Clinical and Therapeutic Approaches 🧠
35:04 – Faith and Self-Reflection 🕊️
39:36 – Advice for Aspiring Helpers 👥
43:11 – Family Systems and Recovery 🏠
44:33 – Setting Boundaries and Moving Forward ➡️
 
🎙️ About Austin Davis
Austin Davis has dedicated his career to helping teens and families across the U.S. tackle mental health and addiction challenges. In Texas alone, over 20% of teens aged 12-17 face mental health issues, and Austin is on a mission to end this crisis. Through advocacy, education, counseling, and ministry, he shapes the lives of teens and their families, guiding them toward healing through community support, effective treatment, and the power of faith. 🙏💫
www.clearforkacademy.com
 
🌟 Join us for a powerful episode filled with stories of hope, resilience, and the tools to create lasting change.
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀
Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
📲 Learn More: The Tragedy Academy
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with Podpage
📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM
👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM
📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our recommended reads
✅ Subscribe: YouTube Channel
 
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Navigating Creative Chaos: From Letterman to Unlikely Discoveries with Steve Young

In this episode, Jay sits down with Steve Young, a multifaceted creative known for his lengthy career as a comedy writer on 'The David Letterman Show,' as well as a musician, filmmaker, and author. They delve into the technical hiccups that stall creative processes yet highlight how embracing small failures can lead to unexpected successes. Steve shares insights from his time in TV and recording, his songwriting journey, and the fascinating world of industrial musicals explored in 'Bathtubs Over Broadway.' The conversation also touches upon the significance of authenticity and creativity in producing long-lasting, impactful work amidst evolving media landscapes.
 
00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introductions
01:19 Steve Young's Career Highlights
02:13 Growing Up and Early Aspirations
03:01 The Evolution of Comedy Writing
10:22 Dave's Record Collection and Unusual Discoveries
12:33 The World of Industrial Musicals
16:23 Bathtubs Over Broadway: From Concept to Film
27:49 Unexpected Journeys and Voice Acting
33:07 The Challenges of Breaking into Nashville
33:43 Meeting John Shane and Merle Hazzard
34:38 Creating 'Broken Heart Insurance'
35:40 The Journey of Songwriting
36:52 Embracing the Artist Identity
38:04 Collaborations and Creative Partnerships
38:56 Navigating Self-Doubt and External Validation
41:01 The Importance of Artistic Persistence
43:16 The Role of Comedy in Music
56:09 The Influence of Personal Experiences on Art
58:20 Reflecting on Trauma and Creativity
01:01:40 The Intersection of Music and Comedy
01:08:20 Final Thoughts and Inspirations
Bio: 
Steve Young is a creative force of nature with a career that seamlessly blends comedy, music, and storytelling. Best known as an Emmy-nominated comedy writer for legends like David Letterman, Matt Groening, and Lorne Michaels, Steve has spent years behind the scenes crafting some of television’s most memorable comedic moments. But his talents go far beyond the punchline. His quirky record collection sparked the creation of the critically acclaimed documentary "Bathtubs Over Broadway," and Amblin is now developing a feature film based on his book.
Now, Steve is charting new territory as a recording artist. In 2024, he released "Broken Heart Insurance," his debut album of humorous yet heartfelt alt-country songs, recorded in Nashville and produced by Grammy-winner Alison Brown. The album showcases a different side of Steve’s storytelling prowess—combining his sharp comedic sensibilities with the raw honesty of country music.
With a career spanning comedy writing, film, and music, Steve is the perfect podcast guest for hosts looking for someone who can deliver captivating stories, a touch of the absurd, and unexpected insights into the creative process. Whether reflecting on his Emmy-nominated days with Letterman, discussing his leap into music, or sharing wild behind-the-scenes tales from "Bathtubs Over Broadway," Steve will surely entertain, inspire, and leave listeners wanting more.
Steve Young is stepping onto the music stage while keeping his comedic roots alive. Steve is the one to book if you’re looking for a guest who can take your audience on a journey from late-night TV laughs to heartfelt country ballads.
https://www.thetragedyacademy.com/guests/steve-young/
 
🚀 Welcome to The Tragedy Academy Podcast 🚀
Discover stories of resilience, redemption, and the human spirit. Hosted with empathy and humor, we share inspiring narratives that blend wisdom and wit, offering insights, laughter, and growth. Join our community and connect through shared experiences.
📲 Learn More: The Tragedy Academy
🎧 Podcasting Made Easy: Build your site with Podpage
📲 Upgrade Your Recording: Riverside.FM
👕 Get the Gear: Loved Jay’s t-shirt? Grab it at Into the AM
📘 Expand Your Mind: Check out our recommended reads
✅ Subscribe: YouTube Channel
📱 Follow Us:
Instagram: @thetragedyacademypodcast
Facebook: @TheTragedyAcademyPodcast
Twitter: @Tragedy_Academy
TikTok: @thetragedyacademy
💖 Support Us: Help us keep bringing meaningful content. Consider donating via PayPal or Buy Me a Coffee.