DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy

What if you’re not actually bad at having fun? What if you’ve just been looking for it in the wrong places?
In this episode of the Music is Therapy podcast, DJ and licensed therapist Hesta Prynn sits down with comedian and writer Josh Gondelman for an honest, funny, and genuinely useful conversation about what it actually means to have a good time. Josh Gondelman is a former writer for Desus & Mero and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and one of the most thoughtful optimists working in comedy today. Together, he and Hesta conduct a full Fun Audit — diagnosing what’s actually fun versus what adults have agreed to pretend is fun. Pickleball. Farmer’s markets. Music festivals. Therapy. Nothing is safe.
But the real music is therapy conversation is about friendship. About the spontaneous phone call versus the scheduled catch-up. About sending someone a song when you’re thinking of them instead of posting it into the void. About showing up for people in the small, consistent ways that actually keep relationships alive — even when you keep missing the big moments.
Josh Gondelman talks about staying optimistic when it takes real work, the concept of being a Beastie Boys Jew, why “play” might be a more useful word than “fun,” and the smallest possible adventure you can go on this week. (Hint: it involves walking into a store you’ve passed a hundred times and never entered.)
By the end of Music is Therapy , the answer is clear: fun isn’t something you chase. It’s something you create — in the margins, with the people who matter, in the places you’ve been ignoring.
This week’s challenge: What’s one small thing you could do today to make your life 5% more interesting? Go do that.
Music Connection Therapy July 1 LIVE Workshop:
The Soulful Art of Persuasion by Jason Harris — Music is Therapy free Zoom workshop July 1st at 12:15pm ET
https://mct.hestaprynn.com/july-1
June Playlist: Therapy, DJ Set or Vacation: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/70qa5enke0r7kHtOSPockT?si=9c869d6e19564842

Connect with Josh Gondelman:
Standup Special "Positive Reinforcement"
Newsletter
Website
Connect with DJ Hesta Prynn and Music is Therapy:
https://hestaprynn.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hestaprynnmusic
Send Hesta your fun songs: musicistherapypod@gmail.com
Music is Therapy is a production of iHeart Podcasts. Hosted by Hesta Prynn. New episodes every week.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever felt a song speak directly to your soul, guiding you through heartbreak or lifting you from anxiety? Join DJ Hesta Prynn in this enlightening episode of DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy, where we dive deep into the therapeutic power of music and explore how it can transform our emotional landscapes. In a heartfelt conversation with Lynn Hoffman, host of the podcast Music Saved Me, we unravel the intricate connections between music and mental health, revealing the profound impact it has on our well-being.

As a licensed therapist and DJ, Hesta introduces the concept of a musical medicine cabinet, emphasizing that the true effectiveness of music as therapy lies not just in the melodies and lyrics, but in how we intentionally incorporate them into our lives. Lynn shares her own musical journey, recounting pivotal moments that shaped her relationship with music and how it has served as a catalyst for her emotional healing. Together, they discuss the science behind music's ability to influence our mental health, highlighting the importance of emotional connection and intention when selecting songs for personal growth.

This episode is a treasure trove of personal anecdotes, insights, and practical advice on using music as a tool for healing and self-discovery. Whether you're navigating the complexities of relationships or seeking emotional well-being, the discussions on music as therapy will inspire you to create your own playlists that resonate with your unique experiences. Discover how to harness the power of music to foster personal growth, enhance your emotional resilience, and navigate life changes with grace.

Join us for transformative music experiences that encourage vulnerability and connection. This episode is not just about listening; it's about engaging with music on a deeper level, exploring the stories behind the songs, and understanding how they can serve as a healing device in our lives. Tune in to learn how music can illuminate your path to self-discovery and emotional healing, and find out why DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy is the podcast you need to elevate your mental health journey.

Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation that blends storytelling in music with therapeutic insights. Let DJ Hesta Prynn and Lynn Hoffman guide you through the emotional struggles and triumphs that music can help us navigate, reminding us all of the powerful legacy that music holds in our lives. Together, let's explore how music can be a source of strength, connection, and healing.

Music Connection Therapy July 1 LIVE Workshop:
https://mct.hestaprynn.com/july-1

Lynn Hoffman: https://lynnhoffmanvo.com/
June Playlist: Therapy, DJ Set or Vacation: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/70qa5enke0r7kHtOSPockT?si=9c869d6e19564842
Connect with DJ Hesta Prynn and Music is Therapy:
https://hestaprynn.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hestaprynnmusic
musicistherapypod@gmail.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the very songs that resonate with your heart also serve as a powerful tool for healing? Join DJ Hesta Prynn in this enlightening episode of "DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy," where she welcomes Tegan Quin of the legendary band Tegan and Sara for a profound conversation about the intersection of music and emotional well-being. Together, they delve into the transformative power of music as therapy, exploring how it can foster personal growth and facilitate healing in our everyday lives.
Tegan Quin shares her unique perspective on songwriting, revealing how her creative process is often a deeply personal journey, driven by her own experiences and emotions. As they discuss the evolution of Tegan and Sara's sound, the conversation highlights the complexities of identity and music, particularly within the context of queer representation in the music industry. Their candid reflections on the impact of their music on audiences showcase how songs can become a source of strength and solace during pivotal moments.
One of the episode's standout moments is Tegan's recounting of their iconic hit "Closer," a song that has empowered countless listeners, especially within the queer community. This powerful anthem serves as a testament to the importance of authenticity in music, and Tegan emphasizes how their lyrics can create emotional connections that transcend individual experiences. The discussion also touches on the role of music in therapy and relationships, illustrating how melodies and lyrics can influence our emotional well-being.
Throughout this episode, DJ Hesta Prynn and Tegan Quin explore the idea of music as a healing device, offering insights into how it can foster personal growth through storytelling and vulnerability. They engage in a heartfelt dialogue about the significance of music in navigating life's challenges, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the profound effects of music on mental health and emotional healing.
Join us for this inspiring music journey that not only celebrates the legacy of Tegan and Sara but also invites you to reflect on your own relationship with music. Tune in to discover how music can be a catalyst for change, a source of empowerment, and a vital part of our personal stories. Experience the magic of music as therapy and the joy of connecting with the universal themes of love, identity, and healing.

Music Connection Therapy July 1 LIVE Workshop:
https://mct.hestaprynn.com/july-1

Connect with Tegan & Sara:
Substack: https://teganandsara.substack.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5e1BZulIiYWPRm8yogwUYH?si=KMJgWxX_Saye6Xw0C6FGkg

June Playlist: Therapy, DJ Set or Vacation: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/70qa5enke0r7kHtOSPockT?si=9c869d6e19564842

Connect with DJ Hesta Prynn and Music is Therapy:
https://hestaprynn.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hestaprynnmusic
musicistherapypod@gmail.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever felt like adulthood has stripped away your sense of fun and adventure? Join DJ Hesta Prynn as she dives deep into a heartfelt conversation with Tegan Quin of Tegan and Sara in this episode of DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy. Together, they explore the often-overlooked importance of embracing joy and spontaneity amidst the pressures of productivity that can weigh heavily on adult life. Tegan Quin shares her candid insights on the emotional toll of being a musician, discussing the challenges of touring and the delicate balance between work and personal life.

The duo reflects on the evolution of Tegan and Sara's music, showcasing how their songs manage to convey profound emotions while maintaining an upbeat sound. This episode is not just about music; it’s a vibrant exploration of themes like creativity, joy, and the therapeutic nature of music. As they discuss the essential need for connection, Tegan Quin highlights her optimistic outlook and the joy she finds in creating music that resonates with others, making it clear that music is a powerful tool for emotional healing.

Listeners will be encouraged to seek out fun and connection in their own lives, as Hesta emphasizes the significance of music in personal growth and emotional well-being. This episode serves as a reminder that music is not just entertainment; it’s a healing device that can guide us through life’s challenges and changes. Whether you’re a musician or simply someone who appreciates the transformative power of music, this episode of DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy is a must-listen journey into the intersection of music, mental health, and the human experience.

Join Hesta and Tegan for an inspiring conversation that will leave you feeling uplifted and motivated to embrace the joy in your own life. Discover how music can be a catalyst for emotional healing, personal growth, and deeper connections with those around you. Tune in to hear relatable stories, insightful reflections, and the undeniable magic of music as therapy. Don’t miss out on this episode that beautifully captures the essence of what it means to live fully and joyfully through the lens of music.
**Send this to the person who needs to have fun again

Music Connection Therapy July 1 LIVE Workshop:
https://mct.hestaprynn.com/july-1

Connect with Tegan & Sara:
Substack: https://teganandsara.substack.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5e1BZulIiYWPRm8yogwUYH?si=KMJgWxX_Saye6Xw0C6FGkg

June Playlist: Therapy, DJ Set or Vacation: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/70qa5enke0r7kHtOSPockT?si=9c869d6e19564842

Connect with DJ Hesta Prynn and Music is Therapy:
https://hestaprynn.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hestaprynnmusic
musicistherapypod@gmail.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered how music can reshape our identities and facilitate emotional healing? Join DJ Hesta Prynn in this captivating episode of DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy, where she sits down with the legendary John Oates, one half of the iconic duo Hall & Oates. Together, they explore the profound connection between music and personal growth, delving into Oates' journey beyond the dazzling lights of fame. As the biggest-selling duo in history, Hall & Oates created timeless tracks that have resonated with millions, including Hesta herself. But what happens when the music stops?
This episode is a deep dive into Oates' transformative experiences after stepping away from the spotlight. John Oates candidly shares his decision to rebuild his identity and the pivotal moments that led him to embrace therapy and visualization practices. Discover how he found solace and strength in unconventional therapy methods, ultimately leading him to create a fulfilling life outside the pressures of the music industry. This conversation not only highlights the healing power of music but also emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and emotional well-being.
Throughout their discussion, Hesta reflects on her own journey with music and self-love, making this episode a heartfelt exploration of how music as therapy can serve as a powerful tool in navigating life's challenges. As they discuss the intersections of identity and music, listeners will gain insights into the transformative music experiences that can guide us through personal struggles.
Whether you're interested in the role of music in therapy and relationships or curious about how music impacts mental health, this episode offers valuable perspectives on emotional healing through music. Tune in to uncover how you can leverage the music connection therapy provides to enhance your personal growth and self-worth.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from two passionate advocates for mental health and creativity. Join DJ Hesta Prynn and John Oates as they navigate the complexities of life changes, decision-making, and the profound impact of music on our emotional landscape. This episode is not just a podcast on self-discovery; it's a celebration of the healing powers of song and the incredible journey of finding yourself through music.
Listen now to DJ Hesta Prynn's Music is Therapy and embark on a journey of self-exploration and emotional healing through the universal language of music!

**Send this to the person who knows they need to start over but doesn't know how yet.
Read John Oates's memoir
May Playlist: Songs that Hold the Feeling for You: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/60acajddWy8eNcAX2GOzl6?si=d78f867f3d2244cd

Find the show: https://hestaprynn.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hestaprynnmusic
musicistherapypod@gmail.com
**Send this to the person who knows they need to start over but doesn't know how yet.
Read John Oates's memoir

May Playlist: Songs that Hold the Feeling for You: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/60acajddWy8eNcAX2GOzl6?si=d78f867f3d2244cd

Find the show: https://hestaprynn.substack.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hestaprynnmusic
musicistherapypod@gmail.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.