This episode features an interview with and tracks by Jim Gelcer, jazz drummer, musician, singer, composer and producer. We chat about his background and talk about how music and other art forms can be a balm for the spirit and connects with our emotions. And why music from our youth continues to resonate with us on a soul level throughout our lives. Jim talks about his experience with kirtan and more about this genre.

You can hear two tracks that Jim Gelcer was a part of:

• Ganesha Muntra (14:03)
• Floating Waves (with David "Vito" Gregoli - 31:45 - end of episode)

Jim is also a yoga teacher who teaches daily on the meditation app "Insight Timer."

In this episode, I talk to my guest, independent pet store owner and advocate Toni Shelaske about wellness for our dogs and cats. We discuss the benefits of getting a pet from a rescue organization, different types of feeding practices, pet emotional health, the importance of exercise and more.

Learn more about Toni and listen to her podcast at toniunleashed.com.

Music is not only a treat for your ears, but it can also be therapy for the soul. Many of us have memories that are unlocked when we hear one of our favorite tunes.

My guest on this episode is David “Vito” Gregoli, producer, composer, artist, and multi-instrumentalist. The episode features two of Vito’s pieces. The first is “On the Road to Windham” (with Jim “Kimo” West). The second one is a newer track called “Hope,” with (with Jim Gelcer).

We talk about why all music, even popular music, can be healing to us, because of how it connects to our hearts. In this way, healing comes from how we receive it, rather than from the music or lyrics themselves. For example, what were we doing when we first heard a specific song? Does it remind us of a broken heart? A wonderful, nostalgic memory?

Vito talks about his background in music and playing rock n roll, as well as working in production and studio work. He also talks about how his interest in transcendental meditation, Buddhism, and heart-centered practices led him to compose and produce new age music.

Vito describes how the music industry is evolving, how AI is affecting it, and shares tips for new musicians.

Listen to Vito’s music here: https://www.youtube.com/c/VitoGregoli

This episode is the first of several episodes coming in future months, with musicians who have an interest in heart-centered practices or have experienced profound healing through their music.