#194 Music Careers Uncovered: Are They Really Viable And A Smart Choice?

Flourish Coaching

Sep 30, 2025

In this episode, Lisa, Dr. Gangelhoff, Dr. Alaina, and Melissa discuss:

Shifts in the music industry and its evolving future
Educational pathways for aspiring musicians
Building independence, resilience, and clarity for young creatives
Family roles and perspectives in supporting artistic career choices

Key Takeaways:

Parents’ fears often stem from only imagining extremes—either starving artists or Grammy winners—yet most successful musicians build stable, thriving lives between those two points.
Gap years can be powerful when structured with clear goals and intentionality, but they risk becoming wasted time if the expectations of the student and their parent aren’t aligned.
Modern musicians must learn to independently create, release, network, and generate income streams before labels or gatekeepers will take notice.
Many college music programs lag behind industry realities, leaving students to seek entrepreneurial, production, and tech skills elsewhere to stay competitive.

“The thing that is always going to be in demand is creativity, interpretation, and emotion, and AI can’t replace all of that, and artists have all of those things.” – Dr. Christine Gangelhoff

“Sometimes the parents’ reason for thinking about a gap year, or the child’s reason for bringing it up, may not be aligned, and that’s when you get that messy kind of wasted year.” – Dr. Alaina Johnson

“The more we train our young adults and our young musicians to be entrepreneurial, creative problem solvers, the better they will be in this ever-changing industry.” – Melissa Mulligan

About our Guests:

Dr. Christine Gangelhoff is an educational consultant and multi-degreed musician who helps students and families navigate performing arts college applications and pursue their musical goals.
- Website: https://mysoundpath.com/
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/christine-gangelhoff-4b89b324
Dr. Alaina Johnson is a psychologist, author, and founder of Parenting Talent LLC, where she supports parents and creatively driven teens through coaching and resources.
- Website: https://parentingtalent.com/
Melissa Mulligan is a vocal and music career coach and founder of Music Career Mastermind, guiding award-winning and independent artists toward authentic, sustainable careers.
- Website: https://www.mastermindroad.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-mulligan-3ab018142/

Episode References:

How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims: https://www.amazon.com/How-Raise-Adult-Overparenting-Prepare/dp/1627791779

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