Have you ever set an ambitious goal only to fall completely short? In this heartfelt season premiere, I'm taking a different approach by sharing both my triumphs and failures from the past year. From the exhilaration of recording my Storm album live with a full band and string quartet to the quiet joy of watching my 77-year-old mother courageously complete her cancer treatments, life has offered much to celebrate.

But what about those ambitious songwriting goals I set? Despite promising myself to write eight songs monthly, I finished exactly zero. This failure led me to a fascinating discovery about Finland's International Day for Failure—a celebration of setbacks as essential steps toward success. Through examining my creative disappointments and financial risks that haven't yet paid off, I've uncovered valuable lessons about my natural rhythms, the importance of strategic decision-making, and the freedom that comes with simplifying.

The podcast landscape is shifting this season. While I'll continue featuring inspiring guests, I'm creating more space for personal reflections, songwriting insights, and those quiet thoughts that visit during early mornings or late-night ceiling-staring sessions. I'm also inviting you deeper into this conversation—call the Heartbeat Hotline (1-902-669-4769) with questions, topic suggestions, or just to say hello. Remember when people used to call each other spontaneously? Let's bring that back.

Success, I've learned, isn't measured by constant busyness but by what truly matters: healthy relationships, exciting projects, financial stability, and creative fulfillment. As we move forward together in Season 4, I'm embracing "less is more" and finding that hard work coupled with self-forgiveness creates the perfect foundation for authentic growth. Join me on this journey of connection, creativity, and courage—whether you're stuck in the middle of your muck or celebrating on the other side of your fears.

Send Christina a comment, question, or review!

Support the show

Got a question for Christina? Call her Heartbeat Hotline in Canada: 1-902-669-4769

Explore Christina's music, videos and tour dates at christinamartin.net