Podcast Summary: "Classic Music Saved Me with William Fitzsimmons"

Podcast Information:

• Title: takin' a walk
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Classic Music Saved Me with William Fitzsimmons
• Release Date: May 28, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of takin' a walk, Buzz Knight engages with William Fitzsimmons, a multifaceted musician, songwriter, engineer, producer, and a holder of a master's degree in mental health therapy. The conversation delves deep into the profound connection between music and mental health, exploring how Fitzsimmons leverages his personal experiences and professional background to create music that heals and transforms.

William Fitzsimmons’ Background

William Fitzsimmons opens up about his unique upbringing and its influence on his musical journey. Growing up with both parents being visually disabled, Fitzsimmons describes music as a "leveling force" that bridged gaps within his family and allowed for deep emotional connections.

[04:51] William Fitzsimmons: "Music, my entire life was a healing force. But, yeah, I didn't know it in a professional manner, but I always knew that in my personal life it was wildly transformative."

His early exposure to music, especially through his father's exceptional skills as an organist, instilled in him a deep appreciation for the unifying power of music. This foundation set the stage for his dual career in mental health therapy and music creation.

Music as a Healing Force

Fitzsimmons passionately discusses his belief in music's healing powers, drawing from both personal experiences and his professional training as a mental health therapist.

[04:02] William Fitzsimmons: "It'd be crazy if I said no right now."

He emphasizes how music operates on multiple emotional layers, enabling listeners to bypass their logical defenses and truly feel the emotions being conveyed.

[09:28] William Fitzsimmons: "There's beautiful music that's happening at the same time. I think it sort of puts it on steroids, for lack of a better term."

Fitzsimmons explains that combining music with personal storytelling allows for a deeper connection, facilitating emotional release and healing for both the creator and the listener.

Personal Stories and Emotional Honesty

The conversation moves into Fitzsimmons' personal experiences with loss and how these moments shaped his music. The passing of his stepmother, Vicky, serves as a pivotal moment that influenced his latest project, Incidental Contact. He shares how writing songs became a method for navigating grief and understanding his emotions.

[10:46] William Fitzsimmons: "Writing those songs really was just about, okay, we're in grief right now. Let's start walking through it."

Fitzsimmons underscores the therapeutic nature of songwriting, likening it to journaling that helps him process and move forward from significant emotional events.

Impact of Music on Others

Fitzsimmons reflects on the feedback he has received from listeners, highlighting how his music has resonated with others facing similar struggles.

[15:24] Amy Robach: "Your music is described as inward looking, of course... How does it make you feel?"

[15:43] William Fitzsimmons: "I've seen people sing along and cry and go through a whole host of emotions, and that's... it's incredible."

He acknowledges the responsibility that comes with creating emotionally charged music but remains humble about his role in the healing process of his listeners.

New Album: "Incidental Contact"

Fitzsimmons introduces his latest album, Incidental Contact, discussing its creation and the personal challenges that influenced its themes. He candidly shares his fears about sharing deeply personal experiences through his music but ultimately embraces the positive impact it has on both himself and his audience.

[10:33] Amy Robach: "How did that impact you and your music?"

[10:46] William Fitzsimmons: "Writing those songs really was just about... it didn't fix everything. But... it got me to the next stage where I could start figuring out what was next."

Influences and Inspirations

The discussion shifts to Fitzsimmons' musical influences and the artists who have shaped his sound and approach to music.

[21:34] William Fitzsimmons: "I think people are like, 'Ugh, it's cringy or something.'... like, John Denver... David Wilcox... Amy Mann... Sufjan Stevens."

He highlights the importance of sentimentality in music and how these influences have helped him and others through difficult times.

Interactions with Other Artists

Fitzsimmons shares anecdotes about meeting his musical heroes, emphasizing the humility and gratitude he feels towards those who have inspired him.

[24:14] Amy Robach: "What would you say if you ever got to meet them?"

[24:18] William Fitzsimmons: "I would just say thank you."

His sincere appreciation for fellow musicians underscores his belief in the communal and supportive nature of the music industry.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Fitzsimmons expressing his commitment to continuing his musical journey, fueled by the desire to help himself and others through his art.

[25:47] Amy Robach: "Thank you for all of that powerful music that you put out."

Fitzsimmons affirms his dedication to creating meaningful music that serves as "incredible medicine" for those navigating emotional challenges.

Notable Quotes:

• Identifying Struggles:

  "You will never be able to change or grow through the thing that you refuse to identify. The thing that you refuse to say. Hey, this is my mountain. This is the struggle."
  [00:49] William Fitzsimmons

• The Power of Music:

  "There's beautiful music that's happening at the same time... it just goes right in. Your defense mechanisms have a lot of difficulty fighting it because you just, you know, you listen to a song and you start crying."
  [09:28] William Fitzsimmons

• Hope Through Music:

  "It's about, okay, we're in grief right now. Let's start walking through it. Let's sit at the piano and see what comes out."
  [11:12] William Fitzsimmons

• Humility in Helping Others:

  "Even as a therapist, you have to recognize it's not you. You're essentially just reflecting back what they're going through and helping them move a little forward."
  [15:43] William Fitzsimmons

Final Thoughts

This episode of takin' a walk with William Fitzsimmons offers a profound exploration of how music intertwines with mental health, providing both personal solace and communal healing. Fitzsimmons' honest and introspective dialogue serves as a testament to the transformative power of music, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art and emotional well-being.