As a child undergoing repeated surgeries, Emma G found something in music that helped her express what ordinary conversation could not.
Emma joins Jay and Gary to talk about growing up with hydrocephalus, being bullied, and turning lived experience into songs. She describes how writing about her younger self helped her revisit those experiences and how that work connects to her coaching with teenagers.
The conversation explores the difference between listening to a song that understands you and creating one that tells your own story. There is also room for play: Gary's challenges to make music from everyday noises become a reminder that expression can begin with whatever is available.
What We Explore
* Emma's childhood experience with hydrocephalus and surgery
* Bullying and writing about a younger version of yourself
* Songwriting as a form of personal expression
* Helping teenagers find words for their experiences
* Connecting through music across different backgrounds
* Making music from unexpected sounds
* Purpose, play, and creative identity
About Emma G
Emma G is a New Zealand-born singer-songwriter, speaker, author, and youth empowerment coach. Her work draws on her own experiences and uses songwriting to help young people express themselves.
Emma: https://emmagmusic.com/
The Tragedy Academy
Candid conversations exploring the human experience through tragedy and triumph.
Hosted by Jay Hicks and Gary DeFranco.
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