Following a recent episode of mental health struggles, Fran (a former mental health worker and a current amateur music critic), once again reflected on how important music is when it comes to keeping his head as level as it can be.
The Mental Notes Podcast sees him talking to musicians he admires, and who have been somehow roped into talking to him, about the intersections of music and mental health. Expect open conversations about song writing, coping mechanisms, the helpful and unhelpful sides of the music industry, and how to navigate life.
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Series 2, Episode 5 - Sam Fryer of Gently Tender on how the band helped him recover, finding mindfulness, and singing with his musical hero
On Episode 5 of Series 2, I am joined by Sam Fryer of Gently Tender – a couple of weeks after the release of EP (or is it an album?) This Once Was Fields. We discuss recovering from the trauma of one band breakup by using your next band to instil positivity, the benefits of walking, cricket, and meditation, the meaning behind many lyrics, and our shared experience of late ADHD diagnosis and realising what helps to prevent it turning you into an anxious puddle.
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website (https://mentalnotespodcast.com/), or follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mental_notes_podcast/). And if you can leave a nice review wherever you get your podcasts that will really help the algorithm to find me, but that’s all the begging I’ll do for now.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
4 May 2026
Series 2, Episode 4 - Quincey May Brown on grief in her music, masking mental health, and randomly making suits for album covers
On Episode 4 of Series 2, I am joined by Quincey May Brown - a couple of weeks before the release of her 2nd album Careful, Pockets. We discuss her headspace around album release date, the meanings behind her lyrics, masking mental health challenges, and much more. Quincey also discusses her relentless creativity (my words, not hers) and I point out something about her songs that she hadn't previously considered herself.
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website (https://mentalnotespodcast.com/), or follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mental_notes_podcast/) or Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social). And if you can leave a nice review wherever you get your podcasts that will really help the algorithm to find me, but that’s all the begging I’ll do for now.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
23 Apr 2026
Series 2, Episode 3 - Dominie Hooper on processing trauma through music, the joy of teaching creativity, and being a hopeful 'hidden gem'
In this insightful interview, musician Dominie Hooper talks to me about the journey of creating her debut album, the emotional challenges of the music industry, and how her music serves as a reflection of her mental health journey. She talks about the joy of creativity, the release of anger through music, and learning to appreciate the different ways in which you can measure success in your music career.
She also listens to me gush about how much I love her debut album - which I really do. Give it a listen if you haven't, and don't miss out on this chat. It's a cracker.
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website (https://mentalnotespodcast.com/), or follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mental_notes_podcast/) or Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social). I'd also really appreciate any reviews you can leave wherever you listen to podcasts, but that's all the begging I'll do for now.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
13 Apr 2026
Series 2, Episode 2 - Brain Leak on addiction, using songwriting as expression and, randomly, the joys of joinery
As Series 2 of Mental Notes continues, Tara Gabriella Engelhardt – also known as Brain Leak – talks to me about her recent music. We dive into some of her lyrics, exploring how they relate to mental health – with a particular focus on how songs and songwriting helped her overcome addiction, make sense of her mind, and be open.
Throughout the episode, we discuss the many ways that music helps good mental health, the things Tara does to look after herself, joinery, and Blink 182.
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website (https://mentalnotespodcast.com/), or follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mental_notes_podcast/) or Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
3 Apr 2026
Series 2, Episode 1 - Tenderness talks overcoming grief through music, songs that give you hope, and choosing a band name you're not ashamed of
As Series 2 of Mental Notes kicks off, Katie Beth Young - also known as Tenderness - talks to me about her debut solo album True. We take a deep dive into some of her lyrics, exploring how they relate to mental health - with a particular focus on how songs and songwriting helped Katie to overcome grief, make sense of past relationships, and investigate her own way of thinking.
Throughout the episode, we discuss the many ways that music both helps and hinders good mental health, the things Katie wishes she could tell her younger self, and music by other artists that resonate with her own mental health experiences. Also, my podcasting app refuses to let Katie tell me where she lives,
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to the Mental Notes website (https://mentalnotespodcast.com/), or follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mental_notes_podcast/) or Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
25 Nov 2025
Episode 6 - Holysseus Fly on using music to overcome grief and being a unknown pop sensation
In the sixth and final episode of Series 1, fran speak to Holysseus Fly about the intricate relationship between music and mental health. Holly shares her journey as an artist, the pressures of releasing music, and the healing power of creating art from personal experiences. They discuss the importance of honesty in songwriting and how vulnerability can foster deeper connections with listeners. Holly reflects on her experiences with breast cancer and how it has influenced her music, emphasizing the significance of balancing life and art.
As always, Fran asks questions he hopes his guest won't hate and a bloody good conversation is borne from his ramblings. If you enjoy this episode, or any of series one, Fran would appreciate a follow on social media (mental_notes_podcast on Instagram and Bluesky) and a nice review on your podcast. Also, tell your mates about the series - and that person you sometimes sit next to on the bus. Anyone, really - tell anyone.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
8 Oct 2025
Episode 5 - Ellen Beth Abdi on letters to her 11-year-old self, the power of singing, and why I'm a 6 music dad by osmosis
In this Episode 5 of Mental Notes, I chat to Ellen Beth Abdi, a musician from Manchester, about the intersection of music and mental health. We explore Ellen's journey in the music industry, the challenges of releasing her debut album, the societal pressures faced by musicians, and how I might be better off hanging my microphone from the ceiling instead of putting it in a coffee mug. Ellen shares insights into her songs and songwriting process, the impact of the pandemic on her career, and the importance of acknowledging privilege. We also discuss why musicians need more support from the government, and how I am a 6 music dad without even trying to be one.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
1 Oct 2025
Episode 4 - Astles on an album inspired by his uncle's mixtape, community music, and a hopeful view of mental health
In the fourth episode of the Mental Notes Podcast, Fran Slater speaks with musician Dan Astles about his album 'Soundtrack for the 21 Bus Home,' which explores themes of mental health, family, and hope. Dan shares how a mixtape from his late uncle inspired his music and the importance of open conversations about mental health. He discusses his community engagement through songwriting workshops and the role of music in coping with life's challenges. Fran and Dan connect over a shared teenage infatuation with tortured artists, one that Fran doesn't admit he still hasn't quite shaken now, as his 42nd birthday approaches.
Follow Fran on Instagram @Mental_Notes_Podcast or Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social to keep in touch with podcast updates and to see Fran try and navigate how the fuck to use social media.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
17 Sept 2025
Episode 3 - Benedict Benjamin on songwriting, mental health, and the therapy of band practice
In Episode 3 Benedict Benjamin and Fran explore the intersection of mental health and music, discussing personal experiences, the challenges of balancing family life with creativity, and the therapeutic nature of songwriting. They delve into the emotional depth of music, highlighting how storytelling in lyrics can resonate with listeners and provide solace during tough times. Ben shares his experiences with mental health, the cathartic process of writing songs, and the unique struggles of navigating nursery drop-offs with his kids. They even talk about drawing spiderman, sewagey lakes, and how not to pass your fear of dogs onto your children.
Note: due to some minor recording issues, it does sound like we were talking over each other on occasion in this episode. I hope that doesn't get in the way of you enjoying another fascinating chat.
Find me on Instagram @mental_notes_podcast and on Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social.
If you enjoy the episode, please do subscribe to the podcast and leave me a lovely rating or review wherever you get your podcasts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
5 Sept 2025
Episode 2 - Bria Salmena talks Big Dog and the battles of being vulnerable on record
In Episode Two of the Mental Notes podcast, host Fran engages with Canadian musician Bria Salmena, discussing the intersection of music and mental health. Bria shares her journey as an artist, the vulnerability of releasing original music, and the importance of open conversations about mental health. They explore the emotional weight of lyrics, the role of music in coping with life's challenges, the significance of support systems, and why Bria's album is called Big Dog and not Kitty-Kat Butterfly.
If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and find Fran/Mental Notes on Instagram at @mental_notes_podcast and Bluesky @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
29 Aug 2025
Episode 1 - Chloe Foy talks mental health and music
In the very first episode of the Mental Notes podcast, Fran Slater interviews singer-songwriter Chloe Foy, exploring the intersection of music and mental health. Chloe shares her journey as an artist, the challenges of releasing her latest album, and the impact all of this has on her wellbeing. The conversation delves into the importance of honesty in songwriting, the struggles of self-doubt, and the therapeutic nature of music.
If you want to find Fran failing to master Instagram and Bluesky, and keep in touch with future news about the series, you can find him @mental_notes_podcast on Instagram and @mentalnotespodcast.bsky.social where more regular thoughts on music and mental health will be shared at random.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
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