Birds in the Sky

About Birds in the Sky

A podcast that focuses on the benefits of music and art as methods for healing and maximizing mental health. Show host Matthew Crane is a working artist and musician - who also served in the US Navy from 2001-2006. Matt speaks to veterans, educators, artists, musicians, and those affected by trauma who’ve found release in art practices.

Publisher

Matthew Crane Studios

Category

arts · music · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 Jul 2024

Latest episode

16 Sept 2025

Latest episodes

21 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Sept 2025

   #019 - Birds in the Sky - Recycling Pain into Art: Jason Pfaff's Journey.

   In this episode of the Birds in the Sky podcast, host Matthew Crane welcomes musician Jason Pfaff, who discusses his journey as a multi-instrumentalist and composer. They delve into the creative process behind Jason's new album, which serves as a cathartic exploration of personal experiences, including a significant breakup and a life-altering car accident. Jason shares insights on the importance of improvisation in music, the influence of his musical family, and the evolving landscape of live performances. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Jason's late sister, Kristen Pfaff of the rock band Hole, and how her work continues to inspire him. If you or a loved one are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out to the 24 hour hotline at www.988lifeline.org Find Jason's Music here: https://jasonpfaff.bandcamp.com/album/2025 Jason's Substack: https://substack.com/@iknowhowtolivebio Host: Matthew Crane Theme Song: "Good Times" by Matt Crane featuring Gantzer © Visit the Studio: www.matthewcranestudios.com IG: / matthewcranestudios Blog: https://substack.com/@matthewcranestu... FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... #artistpodcast #podcasting #veteranscommunity

2. 

   29 Apr 2025

   "You're allowed to take up space" with photographer and Navy veteran: Erica Duncan

   In this episode of Birds in the Sky, host Matthew Crane speaks with Erica Duncan, a Navy veteran and photographer, about her experiences in the military, her transition to civilian life, and the healing power of creativity. They discuss the importance of community among veterans, the Odyssey Project, and how art can serve as a therapeutic outlet. Erica shares her journey of self-discovery through photography and the significance of tattoos as personal expression. Erica and Matthew explore themes of validation, creativity, and connection among veterans. They also discuss the importance of finding one's voice, the healing power of creative outlets, and the shared experiences of grief within the veteran community. The conversation touches on her journey of self-discovery through photography and the significance of reconnecting with old friends. Thank you for spending some time with this podcast. Keep spreading the power of creativity! If you or a loved one are having thoughts of Suicide, please reach out to the 24 hour hotline at 988 or visit www.988lifeline.org Host: Matthew Crane Theme Song: "Good Times" by Matt Crane featuring Gantzer © Visit the Studio: www.matthewcranestudios.com IG:   / matthewcranestudios Blog: https://substack.com/@matthewcranestu... FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... #veteranpodcast #artistpodcast #podcastingartists

3. 

   22 Apr 2025

   Photography brought me back into the moment: Rob Healy's story.

   In this episode of Birds in the Sky, host Matthew Crane speaks with Rob Healy, a veteran of the Air Force who shares his journey from military service to civilian life. Rob discusses the challenges of transitioning out of the military, the importance of community, and how photography has played a crucial role in his healing process. He emphasizes the therapeutic value of creative expression for veterans and the unique language that art provides in connecting with others. Rob also highlights the impact of the Odyssey Project, which uses photography to foster community and healing among veterans. Thank you for spending some time with this podcast. Keep spreading the power of creativity! If you or a loved one are having thoughts of Suicide, please reach out to the 24 hour hotline at 988 or visit www.988lifeline.org Host: Matthew Crane Theme Song: "Good Times" by Matt Crane featuring Gantzer © Visit the Studio: www.matthewcranestudios.com IG:   / matthewcranestudios Blog: https://substack.com/@matthewcranestu... FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

48,352

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 44 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

22

Social presence

94

YouTube

85

Engagement

32

Contact Birds in the Sky

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.