Podcast Summary: "Finding Her Voice: How Music Saved Kelsie Watts"

Podcast Information:

• Title: takin' a walk
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Finding Her Voice: How Music Saved Kelsie Watts
• Release Date: June 18, 2025

Introduction

In this emotionally charged episode of "takin' a walk," hosted by Lynne Hoffman, listeners are introduced to Kelsey Watts, a multifaceted artist known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt songwriting. Kelsey shares her journey through music, highlighting how it has been a source of healing and connection not only for herself but also for her fans.

Kelsey Watts: An Artistic Journey

Background and Early Influences

Kelsey Watts begins by recounting her earliest memories of music, emphasizing that she grew up in a musical household. “I just grew up with music. Both of my parents sing and play piano and grew up singing in church, so I really don't remember life without it” (05:03).

Her musical influences span a wide range, from Whitney Houston and Celine Dion to Def Leppard and the Rolling Stones. “For me, as a vocalist, Whitney Houston and Celine were really, really big influences” (07:14).

Discovering Music as a Source of Emotional Healing

Kelsey's relationship with music took a profound turn following the tragic loss of her brother to depression in 2013. She explains how music became a lifeline during her grieving process: “I love to talk about it because it gives a little bit of insight into what happens... using music in order to heal from that is something that I'm able to pass on” (08:11).

The Power of Music in Healing

Personal Story and Advocacy

Kelsey opens up about her brother Jordan’s struggle with depression and the impact his loss had on her life. She emphasizes the importance of breaking the taboo around discussing mental health: “I love to talk about it because it gives a little bit of insight into what happens... And I think the more that we talk about it, the less taboo it becomes” (09:00).

Creative Process and Songwriting

When delving into her songwriting process, Kelsey highlights the therapeutic aspect of creating music. “There are parts of it where it's like, oh, how fun, because I can really relate to this. And then there's other parts where it really is painful” (12:14). She collaborates closely with producers to ensure her songs are both personal and relatable, as seen in her upcoming track "Fit In."

Experiences on The Voice and Broadway

The Voice

Kelsey reflects on her time on NBC's "The Voice," noting that while the show provided visibility, it didn't drastically shape her as an artist. “It taught me how to really dig into that part of it and then to start showing people who I really am” (15:02).

Broadway

Comparing her experiences on television and Broadway, Kelsey describes the latter as more demanding due to the live audience and lack of second takes. “With theater... you can't, like, just do it over” (16:20). She shares the rigorous routines she follows to stay prepared, including vocal and physical warm-ups.

Impact and Connection with Fans

Listener Feedback

Kelsey expresses the profound impact her music has had on her listeners. She recounts heartfelt stories of fans who found solace in her songs: “I had a girl tell me... I just need to say thank you for what you wrote about your brother” (42:38).

Personal Interactions

Meeting fans in person, especially in places like New York City, often leaves Kelsey humbled and grateful. “Sometimes people come up and they're like, I follow you and your husband... It breaks me out this way because I don't expect people to know who I am” (42:23).

Advice and Future Aspirations

Advice to Listeners

Kelsey advises those struggling with personal issues to seek community and support: “Find a community... just seem just one that you can really hunker down with and be like, hey, I am not okay” (46:12).

Dream Collaborations and Goals

Looking ahead, Kelsey dreams of collaborating with artists like Jelly Roll, Pink, and Rihanna. She also aspires to originate a role on Broadway and to embark on a world tour, aiming to “perform for that many people” and spread messages of hope and self-worth (44:15).

Conclusion

Kelsey Watts' episode on "takin' a walk" is a testament to the transformative power of music. Through her personal stories, advocacy for mental health, and genuine connection with her audience, Kelsey embodies how music can serve as both a refuge and a bridge to others facing similar struggles. Her journey offers inspiration and a reminder that no one is alone in their battles.

Notable Quotes:

• “I don't remember life without [music].” – Kelsey Watts (05:03)
• “Music can be a lifeline in our darkest moments.” – Kelsey Watts (02:37)
• “We are making it every day. You have to learn to live with the grief instead of in the grief.” – Kelsey Watts (10:52)
• “Find a community... someone that you can really hunker down with and be like, hey, I am not okay.” – Kelsey Watts (46:12)
• “I hope listeners take away the fact that they belong, that there is hope that they can make it.” – Kelsey Watts (40:57)

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the episode, capturing Kelsey Watts' journey, her advocacy work, experiences on The Voice and Broadway, and her deep connection with her audience. Notable quotes are included with timestamps for reference.