The Mental Musician
I write about my experiences with mental health and life in music, trying to make sense of what I’ve been through, so it helps other musicians don’t feel alone in their own struggles
Join 450+ musicians who are finding the courage to open up about their mental health and supporting each other as they go.

I've learned a lot from Brian's LinkedIn posts and his fantastic newsletter 'The Mental Musician'. Brian is fearless in life. He strives to be open and honest and has lead me to be more open and honest with myself when it comes to work, burnout, and taking care of yourself. It's brave to open yourself up to the world and discuss mental health so candidly using personal examples but Brian puts himself out there. Many people need to hear what Brian has to say, especially those in the music industry and I'm sure many have found support and guidance through Brian's words.

Jamie Parmenter
Founder at Spinbard | CEO RealNifty |
Ever since I subscribed to Brians Newsletter. I have always enjoyed the great and insightful contents Brian shares about music therapy and sound minds for musicians. I recommend him as a certified problem solver and an intentional growth minded individual.

Akpan-Effiong (Nsikak) Angel
CEO / Founder, DeExclusives Music Organization Student at Federal University of Technology Akure
I subscribe to Brian’s Mental Musician Newsletter because his story - especially his openness about battling depression after a career in teaching the arts - deeply resonated with me. It reminded me of my own struggles while pursuing a career in dance education, and of the very real highs and lows that come with a creative path. What’s most comforting is knowing that someone thousands of miles away is experiencing similar things. His writing reminds me that I’m not alone. It also gently challenges me to reflect and ask deeper questions about my own passions and my relationship with my craft - especially now, as I grow older and (hopefully) wiser. I hope more people - particularly artists like myself - get to read Brian’s newsletter and find the same sense of comfort and inspiration. His words are a reminder that even with the mental health struggles we face in our respective journeys, we don’t have to give up on ourselves or our art. Sometimes, it’s just about finding our way back to our true selves - so we can continue doing what we do, to keep creating, and in doing so, become a light for others too.

Asha Marinella Molina
Performing Artist and Speaker
I worked with Brian for several months during his time at Thoughtleadr. He has a great talent for getting people to open up and share their real stories. He creates spaces where musicians and creatives can be vulnerable about mental health without judgment. His gift for authentic storytelling helps break down stigmas and lets others know they're not alone. A true champion for artists and their wellbeing!

Hosun Chung
Operating Partner at Thoughtleadr
Brian doesn’t just talk about mental health; he translates the invisible weight artists carry. The quiet breakdowns behind public performance. The pressure to keep showing up, even when something inside is unraveling. His latest newsletter felt deeply personal to me. Not just because of what he shared, but because it echoed what I’ve witnessed in others too. When I first saw behind-the-scenes clips of BTS gasping for breath between shows, hiding injuries, smiling through burnout, it shook me. You could feel the cost of performance on their bodies and minds. Reading Brian’s words brought that all back. And reminded me: this isn’t just about artists. It’s about anyone who feels they’re only valued when they’re “on.” If you’ve ever held it together in public while falling apart in private, his writing will feel like a soft landing. Just give it a try its worth your time.

Nancy Keer
Founder of Roah Holds
Brian has built an awesome side business and community in the Mental Musician. His ability with crafting content that connects with people on an emotional level while dealing with at times sensitive topics around mental health.

Lachlan Hutchison
SEO Manager at SafetyCulture
I commend Brian for his outstanding work with the Mental Musician podcast and newsletter. Through his thoughtful curation, candid conversations, and prominance online, Brian has created a platform that breaks new ground in offering safe, stigma-free spaces where music industry professionals and men can discuss mental health and wellbeing openly. Brian’s approach blends vulnerability with professionalism. By inviting artists, producers, managers, and clinicians to share lived experience and practical strategies, he normalises help seeking as well as models how honest dialogue can coexist with creative careers. His episodes and newsletters consistently centre empathy, evidence-informed guidance, and actionable steps—making complex topics accessible without diluting their seriousness. Brian’s work is also garnering growing interest across LinkedIn, where professionals are engaging with his insights, sharing resources, and starting their own conversations. That visibility is expanding the reach of his mission and drawing attention from people who might otherwise never encounter these vital discussions.

Michael Wright
Teachers Talk Radio Host | Music Improvisation/Pedagogy Research
