In this episode of Curious Vocalists, life coach Tom Fogg joins a relaxed, conversational, yet profound exploration of the the relationship between truth, authenticity, and creativity. Rather than a structured interview, this is an open dialogue centred on the concept of truth and its foundational role in maintaining creative wellbeing. They discuss practical techniques for embracing self-compassion, overcoming creative blocks, and living in harmony with the natural flow of life, inspired by philosophies like Taoism.

The conversation is honest, personal and explores psychologically grounded ways to navigate the inner critic we all have, moving past superficial solutions to examine what happens when we face our internal voices with absolute honesty.

This episode offers an unhurried, substantial look into the psyche, making it a perfect match for those who appreciate meaningful, psychological exploration rather than a bit of light listening.

Key Topics

• The relationship between truth and creativity
• The three capabilities of autonomy: awareness, spontaneity, intimacy
• Techniques for entering flow state and overcoming creative blocks
• The role of self-compassion and acceptance in artistic work
• The influence of Taoism and the Tao Te Ching on creative practice

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Creativity

05:21 Navigating the Creative Process

13:06 How Creativity Can Be Stifled as a Child

18:25 Overcoming Stigmas Around Being an Artist

21:56 Our Thoughts as Self-inflicted Suffering

26:30 Allowing Creativity Rather Than Forcing It

31:41 Compassionate Living and Acceptance

33:06 Navigating Creative Blocks

36:33 Lower Your Expectations But Never Your Standards

42:24 Confronting the Inner Critic

44:56 The Power of Sharing Your Truth

49:16 The Courage to Share

Resources Mentioned:

The Games People Play - Book by Eric Burn

The Creative Act - Book by Rick Rubin

The Tao Te Ching - Book (translation by Stephen Mitchell)

Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Book by Susan Jeffers

Dr. K’s The Healthy Gamer podcast - Episode title: Your Standards are Way Higher Than They Should Be

The Blind Boy Podcast

Tetragrammaton - Rick Rubin’s Podcast

Get in contact with Tom: Instagram - instagram.com/tomfoggcoach/

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

What happens when the music stops and it is time to talk to the crowd? For many musicians and vocalists, bridging the gap between songs is the most nerve-racking part of the show. In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace sits down with comedian, author, and comedy workshop leader Logan Murray—who has taught the likes of household names like Greg Davies and Rhod Gilbert.

Logan shares invaluable insights into transforming performance anxiety into focused energy, treating the audience like your mates, and tapping into the power of the conversational afterthought. Whether you are an introverted performer looking to connect more naturally or someone looking to inject a bit of playful humour into your set, this conversation explores how to get out of your own head and step into the flow zone.

To learn more about Logan's work, books, and upcoming creativity workshops, visit his regular comedy hubs or check out his sessions at the Museum of Comedy in London.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Stage Nerves and Performance Anxiety

04:54 Connecting with the Audience: Treating Them as Friends

08:12 The Art of Conversation in Performance

11:31 Rehearsed vs Spontaneous

12:14 The Importance of Playfulness in Performance

17:13 Workshop Techniques To Find Your Inner Idiot

21:05 All Comedy is A Reaction

23:01 The Impact of Nutrition on Performance

25:39 How much to Prepare for Audience Interaction

27:31 Logan's Various Comedy Workshops

29:03 How to Turn Fear into Playfulness

34:58 The Balance of Stupidity and Cleverness in Comedy

39:31 The Importance of Play in Art and Performance

39:59 Exploring Logan's Creative Ventures

42:02 The Quickfire Round

Mentions/ Resources:

Info on Logan’s comedy courses: https://loganmurray.com/news

Logan’s Book: Get Started in Stand-Up Comedy - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Started-Stand-Up-Comedy-Teach-Yourself/dp/1473607183

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In the second half of this special two-part series on the compelling speaking voice, the focus shifts from the physical foundations of voice to the art of delivery and leadership presence. This episode explores how to move beyond a monotone or repetitive delivery to find a voice that commands authority while maintaining a genuine connection with your audience.

Through practical exercises and mindset shifts, the discussion covers:

• Pitch Variety and Emotional Truth: Learning to use intentional inflection to avoid the repetitive patterns of news reporting and ensure your message lands with gravitas.
• Projection and Pacing: How to fill a room without shouting by utilising supported breath and forward resonance.
• The Power of the Pause: Embracing silence to create tension, show self-assuredness, and allow your audience to lean in.
• The Inner Game: Mindset tools to shift from self-judgment to a focus on service, allowing for a magnetic combination of vulnerability and strength.

Whether you are introducing a song on stage, leading a rehearsal, or presenting in a professional setting, these tools are designed to help you integrate your technical skills with a grounded, authentic presence.

Chapters

00:00 Foundations of Authentic Speaking

00:36 Exploring Pitch and Variety

06:38 Projection and Pacing Techniques

16:31 The Power of Pauses

21:29 Building Confidence and Stage Presence

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician