We had the good fortune of connecting with Townsend and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Townsend, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Taking the leap from full time therapist to music full time was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. I think society has taught us that if you don’t have a blue collar job, you will not be successful. I was raised hearing that art and music are hobbies, not careers. These outlooks and comments are hard to overcome! One day after working in the nursing home, I had a huge “ah-ha” moment. I felt completely at peace knowing what I had to do. Quit the 9 to 5 job and pursue music full time.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a singer-songwriter/musician/mental health advocate from Arkansas. I have been blessed to be able to not only play music professionally but use my platform to help spread light and love regarding mental health. Through my music and journey, I have found that everyone is searching for the same thing: to belong and feel loved. I founded the “You’re Not Alone with Townsend” project, which grew into a podcast and mental health movement. My goal is simply to help people know that they are not alone in their struggles. This project has been challenging but so rewarding. I’ve received multiple messages and emails explaining how simply hearing that someone else understands them saved their life. There’s nothing that can beat that feeling.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am a complete home body. I have a saying that “if I’m not gigging, I’m not going”. I spend so much time on the road and playing and public speaking that when I have a free night, I’m typically sitting at home enjoying the quiet. All of my friends know, I love nothing more than quality time and discussion. If my best friends came to visit, I’d plan to have an amazing charcuterie board laid out, wine, a bonfire, and a listening ear.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have so many people that played a huge role in my decision to take this “leap of faith”. If you follow my story on socials, you’ll see my world shattered in 2016. After many months of trying to heal myself, I picked up the phone and sought outside professional help. Counseling was the best decision I have ever made. I found that I simply needed someone to tell me my thoughts and feelings were valid! She really helped me find my passion and priorities, and honestly helped shape who I am today.

Website: www.townsendtmusic.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townsendtmusic/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TownsendTMusic/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFyBoiYh1ePwhtD5BM4ZP8Q

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.