The Mental Musician

By Brian Zhang

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Episodes: 9

Description

Hey everyone, Welcome to The Mental Musician Podcast.

My name is Brian Zhang. I'm a guitarist, music teacher, and writer from Sydney, Australia. I've been a professional musician for over a decade. But behind the scenes, I've battled major depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

In June 2021, I had a mental breakdown. It forced me to face what I’d been carrying for years. And when I finally opened up to other musicians... It was confronting to hear how many musicians said, “I’ve gone through the same thing”—and how lonely they felt.

That’s why I started this podcast:

• To break the mental health stigma in the music industry

• To create a space where musicians, artists, and creators feel supported

• And to let people know they don’t have to go through it alone.

I may not have millions of dollars, wealthy connections to make changes to systems, government policies and laws, but I can start honest conversations about burnout, depression, anxiety, career pressure... all of it.

So if you’ve ever felt like you're the only one struggling, this podcast is for you. Because musicians deserve to succeed without sacrificing their health. So let’s support each other, build this community, and give ourselves a real shot.


Episode Date
How Zack King, the punk rock maverick, uses songwriting to let his emotions out and speak openly about depression
Oct 03, 2026
Asha Marinella burnt out teaching dance during COVID. Here's how defying expectations helped her become the artist she always wanted to be.
Aug 27, 2026
Esther Ling on Breaking Classical Music Rules, Walking Away From Toxic Ensembles, and Fighting Through Depression
Aug 12, 2026
Could AI Be the Thing That Finally Saves Musicians From Burnout?
Jul 31, 2026
Is Telling Musicians to Follow Their Passion Doing More Harm Than Good?
May 10, 2026
Why So Many Musicians Are Struggling With Their Mental Health
Mar 25, 2026
An Honest Conversation About Getting Through Suicidal Thoughts and Walking Away From Music
Feb 05, 2026
Brian talks about rebuilding his life after breaking down with two seizures in 2025 (solo episode)
Jan 10, 2026
Opening up about the mental health struggles that musicians don't talk about with Mike Wright
Dec 14, 2025