In this heartfelt episode of Chasing Joy, Spencer, Bryan, and Wayne welcome singer-songwriter and music therapist Shelby Figueroa, whose journey from nursing to healing through music is as moving as the songs she writes.

Shelby opens up about losing her mother while in nursing school, discovering songwriting as a way to process grief, and the profound moment she realized her soul was “dying” inside a career that no longer aligned with her values. Through stories of courage, self-discovery, and connection, she shares how leaving the safety of a “sensible” path led her toward a life of purpose—and how music became both her own medicine and a bridge to heal others.

With her ukulele in hand, Shelby gives the hosts (and all of us) a firsthand experience of the calm, presence, and emotion she brings to hospital rooms every day—where music can ease anxiety, unlock memory, and even spark miraculous awakenings.

From laughter about “death-metal therapy” to tears over the power of song, this episode is a beautiful reminder that joy often arrives when we quiet the noise, follow what feels alive, and allow ourselves to be instruments of healing.

Links to Shelby's Music:

Amazon

Spotify

Apple Music

For more information about music therapy, you can contact Shelby at Shelbymusictherapist@gmail.com.

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