Music Saved Me Podcast

In this inspiring replay episode of Music Saved Me, host Lynn Hoffman sits down with acclaimed Nashville singer-songwriter Jess Jocoy for an intimate conversation about transformation, authenticity, and the healing power of music.
Jess opens up about her deeply personal journey through life’s in-between spaces—navigating over a decade of loss, heartache, and self-doubt—and how songwriting became her path to resilience and self-discovery. She shares the stories behind her anticipated third studio album, “Cul-de-Sac Kid,” exploring the honest, cinematic songs that blend folk-rooted introspection with country storytelling.
In this candid conversation, Jess discusses:
∙ How music became a guiding force through her most challenging moments
∙ The meaning behind “Cul-de-Sac Kid” and her unique “cul-de-sac country” sound
∙ Finding belonging and healing in a music industry that hasn’t always made space for outsiders
∙ The therapeutic power of songwriting as a lens for understanding loss and growth
∙ What it means to embrace your roots while forging your own artistic path
Jess also reflects on the influences that shaped her career—from early inspiration by Alan Jackson and Shania Twain to settling into her authentic voice with age and experience. Listeners will get a sneak peek at new music and hear how every lyric Jess writes serves as an act of resilience and hope for anyone feeling caught in-between.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever turned to music for comfort, healing, or a way forward. Join us for echoes of resilience, vulnerability, and the transformative power of honest storytelling.
Subscribe to Music Saved Me wherever you listen to podcasts and discover more stories of how music heals the soul.
Support the show: https://musicsavedme.net/
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What does it cost to walk away from one of Hollywood’s most powerful legal positions to pursue your true passion? Steve Bardwil spent years as Chief Counsel for Walt Disney Studios, overseeing legal affairs for Marvel, Pixar, Lucasfilm, and more—negotiating billion-dollar deals and working alongside industry titans like Steve Jobs, Alan Bergman, and Kevin Feige. But behind the prestigious business cards and high-stakes meetings, he was writing songs, leading a band, and wrestling with a question that wouldn’t let go: What if there’s more?
Welcome to the Takin A Walk podcast and join Buzz Knight on this inspiring music story with singer-songwriter Steve Bardwil.
In 2024, Steve Bardwil made the decision that seemed crazy to everyone around him—he left Disney to pursue music full-time. One year later, he released his critically acclaimed debut album “Nothing But Time,” produced by 11-time Grammy winner Joe Chiccarelli (Elton John, U2, Beck, The Killers). Now he’s heading back into East West Studios to record his sophomore effort.
In this inspiring music interview , Steve shares the emotional journey of redefining his identity beyond the Disney empire, the moment he cold-called Joe Chiccarelli (and actually got a callback), and what happened when one of music’s most legendary producers transformed his songs in ways he never imagined. From opening for Donovan Frankenreiter and Lyle Lovett while still at Disney, to learning the recording process from scratch, to writing “Send Them Love”—a song resonating with anyone who’s faced online negativity—Steve Bardwil and his story is about courage, reinvention, and refusing to live with “what if.”
He also reveals his Beatles origin story (Dodger Stadium, 1966), the bittersweet reality of walking away from a career that defined him, and his advice for anyone contemplating their own leap: “At the end of your life, you can say ‘I tried’ or ‘I wish I would have.’ Don’t be the person who says ‘I wish I would have.’”
Featured Topics: Career reinvention, music production with Joe Chiccarelli, working at Walt Disney Studios, songwriting process, recording at East West Studios, overcoming self-doubt, “Send Them Love,” Beatles at Dodger Stadium, following your passion later in life
#legendary musician #legendary musican interview #knight #walk #weekly music history #kegendary musician #career breakthrough #disney #buzzknight #iheartpodcast #inspiration #music and resilience #inspiring music interview #inspiring icons
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In this inspiring replay episode of Music Saved Me, host Lynn Hoffman sits down with Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Jenna Andrews to explore her remarkable journey from backup singer to one of pop music’s most sought-after hitmakers.
Jenna opens up about her early days performing as a backup vocalist for Drake and how that experience shaped her understanding of the music industry. She shares the pivotal moments that led her to transition from performing to writing and producing, ultimately crafting chart-topping hits for some of the biggest names in music including BTS, Tate McRae, Jennifer Lopez, and many more.
Throughout the conversation, Jenna reveals the creative process behind writing hits, the challenges of breaking into the songwriting world, and how she developed her unique approach to crafting songs that resonate with millions. She discusses the importance of authenticity in songwriting, working with diverse artists across genres, and finding her voice as a woman in a male-dominated industry.
Listeners will gain insight into what it takes to succeed in modern music production, the power of collaboration, and how music became Jenna’s salvation during challenging times. Her story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and following your passion even when the path isn’t clear.
Whether you’re an aspiring songwriter, music industry professional, or simply a fan of the creative process, Jenna Andrews’ story will inspire you to pursue your dreams and trust in your unique talents.
Subscribe to Music Saved Me for more conversations with artists, songwriters, and music industry professionals who share how music transformed their lives.
Support the show: https://musicsavedme.net/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful replay episode of Music Saved Me, host Lynn Hoffman sits down with rising country rock artist Jessica Lynn to explore how music became her lifeline through challenges, self-doubt, and the demanding journey of building an independent music career.
Jessica Lynn opens up about discovering her voice and identity as an artist, navigating the pressures of the music industry while staying true to her authentic sound. She shares candid stories about the moments when music literally saved her—from overcoming insecurities to finding strength in songwriting during her darkest times. This heartfelt story is a testament to the power of music as therapy.
Listeners will hear about Jessica’s evolution from a young artist finding her footing to becoming a force in modern country rock, blending traditional country sensibilities with rock edge and emotional honesty. She discusses the healing power of performing, the community she’s built with her fans, and how music continues to be her compass through both triumphs and struggles.
This conversation with Jessica Lynn dives deep into the transformative power of music, the courage it takes to pursue an artistic path, and the redemption found in creative expression. Jessica’s story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the life-changing impact of following your musical calling.

Support the show: https://musicsavedme.net/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Support the show: https://musicsavedme.net/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Lynn Hoffman for an inspiring conversation with Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Sam Hollander, the creative force behind some of the biggest hits in modern rock and pop music. From Panic! At The Disco’s “High Hopes” to Weezer’s “Beverly Hills” and Train’s “Hey, Soul Sister,” Sam Hollander has shaped the sound of multiple generations.
In this compelling episode, Sam Hollander shares his journey from playing in bands to becoming one of the music industry’s most sought-after hitmakers. Discover how he developed his distinctive approach to songwriting, the collaborative process behind creating chart-topping anthems, and the personal struggles and triumphs that have fueled his creativity throughout his career.
Sam opens up about the transformative power of music and resilience in his own life, discussing the moments when music became his salvation and how those experiences inform his work with artists today. He reveals insider stories about crafting memorable hooks, working with diverse artists across genres, and navigating the evolution of the music business from the early 2000s to the streaming era.
Whether you’re an aspiring songwriter, music industry professional, or simply fascinated by the creative process behind the songs that define our lives, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the art and craft of hit songwriting. Sam’s candid reflections on perseverance, artistic integrity, and the healing nature of music make this a must-listen episode.
Tune in to hear how music saved Sam Hollander—and how his songs continue to save countless others around the world.

Support the show: https://musicsavedme.net/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Support the show: https://musicsavedme.net/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.