Morning Motivation: "Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn." — Benjamin Franklin
Emma G - Vocal and Songwriting Coach, TEDx Speaker, Mentor
Helping high achieving teens and professionals find their voice through music and mindset coaching | Elite vocal and songwriting coach | TEDx Speaker | Musician
At a Glance:
Happy Monday, friends!
You can tell that school is well and truly back in session, because last week, I booked three new vocal and songwriting clients, and I'm thrilled. If you've been following me on social media at all [especially on my YES Youth Coaching Instagram account], or if you watched either of my TEDx Talks; you'll know how passionate I am about incorporating music into the school syllabus, [in particular] because of its benefits on the brain and the chemical makeup that contributes to our mental and emotional well-being.
[Side note: music can also be hugely beneficial when it comes to establishing and maintaining a positive workplace culture, and keeping employees and teams engaged, inspired, and connected with their co-workers and their mission as an organization... but that's a topic for another day].
Well, after a gentleman who follows me on Instagram reached out on Friday to find out more about my "different" approach to music, coaching and wanted to take a moment to share some insights into the teaching principles I incorporate into my youth empowerment coaching, vocal training, and even my musical performances. My approach is rooted in the indigenous teachings of my New Zealand upbringing, specifically drawing from Ako Wānanga, a Māori philosophy of teaching that has shaped how I connect with students and audiences alike.
I should note: I'm not Māori, but my father was from Fiji, so I spent my younger years moving between New Zealand and Fiji. And here's the secret: Fijian culture, Maori culture, Samoan culture... all Pasifika culture: we all share largely the same principles and approaches when it comes to life, learning, family, communication and community.
So, of course, one of the things that sets me apart from other musicians and coaches here in the States in particular is how I integrate these indigenous principles into everything I do—from the way I guide young people through songwriting to how I conduct my shows. I’m not a therapist, but I'm also not your average coach, and that’s on purpose. My foundation comes from the Māori and Pasifika traditions, where learning and community are built on reflection, relationships, passion, and a genuine exchange of knowledge.
Today, I want to share three of my favorite principles from Ako Wānanga that I believe create transformative experiences for my clients and audiences:
1. A Sense of Belonging
Every individual is unique, and everyone brings something valuable to the table. I aim to foster a space where each student or participant feels seen, heard, and valued. Whether it's in a songwriting workshop, a vocal coaching session, or during one of my live performances, I always make room for personal introductions and shared stories. Creating a sense of belonging is crucial for building confidence, and when people feel they belong, they become more open to learning, growing, and expressing themselves fully.
2. Ensuring Safe Space
Mistakes? I don’t believe in them. Instead, I view every challenge as an opportunity for growth. In my sessions and workshops, I encourage a growth mindset where we embrace trying new things, taking risks, and reflecting on what we can learn from every situation. It’s all about building a supportive atmosphere free from judgment—whether you’re a teen navigating anxiety through songwriting or an adult developing your vocal talents. This "safe space" ethos also extends to my shows, where I aim to create an environment where everyone feels empowered and free to express themselves.
3. Teach Where the Student Is At
No two people are alike, and that’s what makes learning exciting. In my coaching sessions, I take a student-centered approach, meeting individuals exactly where they are. Whether I’m working with a beginner songwriter, an experienced vocalist, or a teenager using music to process life’s challenges, my goal is to honor their unique experiences, background, and abilities. It’s not just about teaching skills; it’s about building confidence, fostering self-expression, and empowering each person to own their journey.
Because when it comes down to it, I believe that my job as a musician, artivist, coach, teacher... whatever hat I'm wearing: I want to leave this world better than it was when I came into it. And yes, each generation faces its own unique challenges, but when it comes to Gen Z in particular? We need to approach these challenges with a different mentality than the one we had when those challenges were created.
And when it comes to Gen Z in particular? Well, it's true: every successful young person is one caring adult away, especially when that adult understands how to connect with their Gen Z kid, student or client!
Let me know if you want to know more about my coaching/teaching principles - and I'll send you a free one pager!
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What’s Next?
I ask whether you're interested in learning more about my coaching/teaching principles, because I’m excited to share that I’ll be releasing a coaching blueprint packet soon—just in time for Thanksgiving! [I know, I know, we still have Halloween coming up, but hey - at least I didn't say "in time for Christmas" ha!].
But seriously: if you're an educator, therapist, parent, coach, or mentor, this packet will offer valuable insights into using songwriting and music as tools for empowerment and personal growth, and incorporate Pasifika teaching principles into how you might want to approach Gen Z this year.
After all: I've had countless conversations with teachers and coaches alike who have mentioned that Gen Z is just... different when it comes to the classroom in particular. But I've found that these principles have really helped.
I also have limited availability for October coaching sessions (only 4 spots left collectively on Wednesdays and Fridays), so if you’re interested in booking me as a Youth Empowerment Coach for your teen, or a vocal coach, now’s the time to reach out! I’d love to work with you.
When it comes to keynote speaking or edutaining, however, you'll need to reach out sooner than later as well - I've already been booked for an out of state three day workshop in October, and another in December!
Mark Your Calendars:
Okay, that's it from me for now, friends. I’m looking forward to continuing to connect and create meaningful change together—whether it’s through music, coaching, or performances. Let’s make sure you and our young people are empowered, confident, and ready to shine this week.
Have an amazing day on purpose,
x
Emma G
P.S. If you’d like to secure one of the last few coaching spots, let's get on a call here, and chat about how I can support you or your teen’s journey through songwriting and creativity.