Blog Archives

November 28th, 2023

11/28/2023

Hi Creative Explorers,

Today we're going to talk about having a growth mindset.

One thing about me is that I'm always learning something new (4 new software programs to create reels, so far) ~ and I teach that mindset to my voice students, too.

My nickname may be "Karey Poppins", but I wasn't BORN that way!

Like Michael Jordan and countless others, was originally told that I had NO TALENT. I had to learn singing and voice coaching through trial and error, getting a Jazz Studies, Vocal Performance degree, studying many books, CDs, online courses, workshops, working with 15 different voice coaches ~ and inventing new solutions on the fly!

Having a growth mindset is the foundation for personal and professional development. It's the belief that our abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.

5 KEYS OF A GROWTH MINDSET

1. Appreciate Challenges
Challenges are opportunities for growth. Instead of avoiding them, learn to appreciate them. Challenges push us out of our comfort zones and help us develop new skills and perspectives. Embracing challenges allows us to learn from our mistakes, adapt, and ultimately become better versions of ourselves.

2. Cultivate a Positive Attitude
A positive attitude is crucial for maintaining a growth mindset. Instead of dwelling on failures or setbacks, focus on the lessons learned and the potential for growth. Embrace the power of "yet" - if you haven't achieved something yet, it doesn't mean you never will.

3. Emphasize Effort and Persistence
Effort and persistence are key ingredients for success. Understand that mastery takes time and consistent effort. Embrace the process of learning and view setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve. By persisting through challenges, you'll develop resilience and achieve greater success in the long run.

4. Be Open to Feedback
Feedback is a valuable tool for growth. Instead of shying away from criticism, embrace it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Seek feedback from mentors, peers, and colleagues, and use it to refine your skills and strategies. Remember, feedback is not a reflection of your worth, but a stepping stone towards growth and improvement.

5. Surround Yourself with Growth-Minded Individuals
The people we surround ourselves with greatly influence our mindset. Surround yourself with individuals who have a growth mindset and who inspire and challenge you to reach your full potential. Engage in meaningful conversations, share ideas, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Together, you can create an environment that fosters growth and supports each other's aspirations.

Remember, developing a growth mindset is a journey. It takes time and consistent effort to make these habits. By embracing challenges, maintaining a positive attitude, emphasizing effort and persistence, embracing feedback, and surrounding yourself with growth-minded individuals, you'll be well on your way to unlocking your full potential. Keep pushing forward and never stop growing!

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. I'm here to help!

REEL FEEDBACK

BTW - I regarding feedback, I would love to get more feedback on the New Choice Game reels that I have spent dozens of hours making! I have hardly done any video editing since 2000, and it has been a tougher, slower - but super cool - road than I thought it would be!

That said, the FIRST Guess Where I Am? country square reel will debut this Sat, Dec 2nd. Apologies for the wait, due to various issues.

Can you please take a look at what I've created so far, and comment with any ideas, suggestions, or encouragement?

I'd appreciate it!

https://www.facebook.com/newchoicegame

SUPPORTER SHOUTOUT: Shoutout to compassionate and imaginative author, Brad Foster.

TESTIMONIAL
This is an interesting and fun game that lets you creatively express yourself!
~ Brad Foster, Writer

Best wishes,

Karen Lyu (she/her)
Holistic Voice Coach + Keynote Concert Speaker + Game Designer
aka "Karey Poppins"
~~~~~
Karen's Links
https://linktr.ee/karenlyu
~~~~~
NEW CHOICE Game Links (2 VIDEOS POSTED)
https://www.tiktok.com/@newchoicegame
https://www.instagram.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
https://www.facebook.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
~~~~~
612-299-2462
karen@holisticvoicecoach.com
newchoicegame@gmail.com

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I'm Thankful

11/24/2023

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* RESCHEDULED "CONVERSATIONS WITH MELISSA" Renafi ADHD PODCAST 01/07/2024

Hi Creative Explorers,

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

I am so very thankful that my life has turned a corner after a tough year since my Dad passed away (RIP)!

Life is good. I have wonderful friends. Voice coaching and New Choice game work are going well.

AND…

1. Israel and Gaza have agreed upon a hostage transfer + 4-day ceasefire. There is hope.

2. The New Choice: Improv Your Life! board game and easy mindset hacking concepts are continuing to transform the lives of many people and bring them joy.

3. I have a 1-hour podcast interview coming up:

"Conversations with Melissa"
LIVE ADHD Renafi YouTube podcast
SUN, JAN 7TH, 2024
(RESCHEDULED)
5pm-6pm PST/7pm-8pm CST/8pm-9pm EST
https://www.youtube.com/@RenaFi

4. I have been able to spend some wonderful time with my Mom, my Auntie, and my Brother, for which I am grateful.

5. I have an AWESOME NEW 5-STAR TESTIMONIAL:

"I am a former K-POP Trainee who trained in Korea for over 3 years, and no one has been able to help me more than Karen! In the beginning of my training, my teachers told me that I was tone-deaf and quickly became uninvested in my growth, giving me alternative roles to fill. However, with Karen, it only took her 15 minutes to identify and fix my issues! She tells great stories and makes sure that every concept she introduces is well understood with many analogies. She also provides many resources and goes truly above and beyond just a voice lesson. I feel as though I have gained a friend who is invested in my growth and I have never been so inspired to learn singing! I would 100% recommend this program to ANY one of ANY level."
~ Beomhan Wu, K-Pop rapper/dancer/emerging singer (former member of M.O.N.T. Arena)

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Beomhan!!! You are such a FUN and DEDICATED voice student!!!

FOLLOW BEOMHAN:
TIKTOK (2.6M): https://www.tiktok.com/@beomhanfm
INSTAGRAM (650K): https://www.instagram.com/beomhanofficial

SUPPORTER SHOUTOUT: Shoutout to playful and amazing VO actor + therapist, Kacy Combest!

TESTIMONIAL
”Karen has put so much thought and passion into this board game and it really shows! As a therapist, the thoughts, feelings, and actions cards really stood out to me along with the diversity of the characters and the knowledge about the countries as we 'travel the world.' Karen created a board game that I thoroughly enjoyed playing that kept me on my toes and kept my brain thinking and creating new choices!”
~ Kacy Combest, VO Actor + Therapist

Best wishes,
Karen Lyu (she/her)
Holistic Voice Coach + Keynote Concert Speaker + Game Designer
aka "Karey Poppins"
~~~~~
Karen's Links
https://linktr.ee/karenlyu
~~~~~
NEW CHOICE Game Links (2 VIDEOS POSTED)
https://www.tiktok.com/@newchoicegame
https://www.instagram.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
https://www.facebook.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
~~~~~
612-299-2462
karen@holisticvoicecoach.com
newchoicegame@gmail.com

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7 Superpowers of ADHD + 2 Videos ~ Blog No. 25

11/20/2023

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* RESCHEDULED "CONVERSATIONS WITH MELISSA" Renafi ADHD PODCAST 01/07/2024

Hi Creative Explorers,

Welcome to the many new subscribers that I have met recently!

If you're curious to know more about this multifaceted Game Designer + Holistic Voice Coach + Keynote Concert Speaker woman aka "Karey Poppins" (magic like Mary Poppins)...

...you're in for a treat!

I will be doing a 1-hour interview:

"Conversations with Melissa"
LIVE ADHD Renafi YouTube podcast
SUN, JAN 7TH, 2023
(RESCHEDULED)
5pm-6pm PST/7pm-8pm CST/8pm-9pm EST
https://www.youtube.com/@RenaFi

If you have ADHD, like me, you're in good company ~ with amazing celebrities like Trevor Noah, Simone Biles, and Taylor Tomlinson!

If you DON'T have ADHD, here's a quick introduction!

7 SUPERPOWERS OF ADHD

Today, we're diving into the extraordinary world of ADHD – a superpower that often goes unnoticed in a world obsessed with conformity. But guess what? ADHD is not just a challenge, it is fabulous, fantastic, and downright phenomenal!

Hyperfocus Mastery: Ever find yourself so engrossed in a task that you lose track of time? Welcome to the world of hyperfocus! People who have ADHD individuals are blessed with a unique ability to zero in on a task with unparalleled intensity, resulting in exceptional productivity and creativity.
Out-of-the-Box Creativity: Who needs a box when your mind is already outside of it? ADHD unleashes a flood of creative thoughts and unconventional ideas. From art to problem-solving, your creative juices are always flowing, giving you a distinct edge.
Energetic Dynamo: ADHD brings a natural energy boost, turning you into a dynamic force to be reckoned with. Channel that boundless energy into pursuits that ignite your passion and watch as you soar to new heights.
Master Multitasker: Multitasking is a breeze for ADHD superheroes. Juggling multiple tasks simultaneously isn't just a skill; it's a way of life. Embrace the chaos and show the world how you can handle all of your projects!
Infectious Enthusiasm: Your passion is contagious! ADHD individuals infuse enthusiasm and vibrancy into any project or environment. Your zest for life becomes a beacon, inspiring those around you to approach challenges with the same fervor.
Unwavering Resilience: ADHD superheroes don't back down easily. The constant ebb and flow of challenges only make you stronger. Your resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to the indefatigable spirit that comes with ADHD.
Empowering Others: ADHD individuals have a natural ability to uplift and empower those around them. Their unique perspective and unwavering support make them incredible mentors and coaches. This superpower allows them to help others unlock their full potential.

So, fellow superheroes, it's time to celebrate the extraordinary journey of living with ADHD. Embrace your gifts, own your strengths, and let the world marvel at the incredible force that is you! ADHD isn't a limitation; it's a pathway to greatness.

FYI - I had a major allergic reaction recently, that I am still recovering from, so I was only able to create and post 2 TikTok videos last week, not 3. Thank God, I am doing better now!

Best wishes,

Karen Lyu (she/her)
Holistic Voice Coach
+ Speaker/Singer/Songwriter/Game Designer
aka "Karey Poppins"
~~~~~
Karen's Links
https://linktr.ee/karenlyu
~~~~~
NEW CHOICE Game Links (2 VIDEOS POSTED)
https://www.tiktok.com/@newchoicegame
https://www.instagram.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
https://www.facebook.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
~~~~~
612-299-2462
karen@holisticvoicecoach.com
newchoicegame@gmail.comi

* Are you overwhelmed? Feel free to reply with “Kickstarter Email” if you want a break until just before the launch.
* If you want to keep getting ALL the cool news, you don't have to do anything.

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Spontaneous Singing at Music City Multicon ~ Blog No. 24

11/13/2023

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Hi Creative Explorers,

A couple of weeks ago, when I first arrived on the first day of the Music City Multicon, the game room was literally empty?!

I was bummed for a bit, but then I decided to make a new choice!

I brought my game board with me and showed it to 5 AMAZING DC/Marvel comic book artists for their opinion - and 4 out of 5 thought it was 100% beautiful!

I explored the whole con and got inspired to sing my New Choice Game jingle to about a DOZEN special guests - including famous actors, Tait Fletcher (Jumanji/STARWARS) and Karen Fukuhara (Suicide Squad/She-Ra and the Princesses of Power)!!!

EVERYONE was supportive of my New Choice Game ~ and LOVED the jingle.

Tait Fletcher even posted a video of me singing to his IG stories!!!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CzAe4zVrAUp/

To top it all off, playtesters at Music City Multicon rated my New Choice Game 8-10 STARS ~ after I changed the rules!

I thank God that I decided to make new choices, and not just sit alone for hours, with only Bluey, the Care Bear, by my side!

7 BENEFITS OF SPONTANEOUS SINGING

Have you ever found yourself bursting into song out of nowhere, whether in the shower, on your morning walk, or even in the grocery store? Well, guess what? That spontaneous singing of yours isn't just a random burst of joy; it comes with a whole bunch of fantastic benefits that can uplift your mood and enhance your overall well-being. So, let's dive in and discover 7 incredible benefits of spontaneous singing!

Connects People ~ Whether you're singing spontaneously at a con, singing to the postal clerk, breaking into song with your special someone, or joining a spontaneous sing-along with friends, singing fosters a sense of connection. It breaks down barriers and brings people together, creating memorable moments and shared experiences.
Mood Booster ~ Singing releases dopamine and serotonin, the "feel-good" chemicals in your brain. So, when life gets tough, turn up the volume and let the music do its magic to change your mood and mindset!
Improves Breathing ~ Take a deep breath and let it out in song! Singing promotes better breath control, expanding lung capacity and overall respiratory function. It's like a fun mini-workout for your lungs!
Strengthens Immune System ~ Believe it or not, belting out your favorite tunes can actually strengthen your immune system. Singing increases the production of immunoglobulin A, an antibody that helps fight off illness.
Instant Stress Buster ~ Feeling overwhelmed? Let the power of song transport you to a stress-free zone. Singing triggers the release of endorphins, those wonderful little neurotransmitters that make you feel oh-so-good.
Boosts Confidence ~ Stand tall and sing proud! The act of expressing yourself through song can boost your confidence and self-worth ~ and also show others what you are made of!
Natural Pain Reliever - Move over, painkillers! Singing releases endorphins, which not only make you feel happy but also act as natural pain relievers. So, the next time you stub your toe, try singing your favorite tune and distract yourself from the pain!

So, there you have it—7 amazing benefits of spontaneous singing that go beyond just making beautiful music. Next time you feel the urge to break into song, don't hold back! Whether you're a shower superstar or a karaoke champion, let the music flow and enjoy the incredible perks that come with embracing the joy of spontaneous singing.

Are you ready to transform your voice and express your soul, too?

Click below to book a FREE 45-Min Vocal Discovery Call:
https://tinyurl.com/MeetKarenonZoom

Best wishes,

Karen Lyu (she/her)
Holistic Voice Coach
+ Speaker/Singer/Songwriter/Game Designer
aka "Karey Poppins"
~~~~~
NEW CHOICE Game Links (2 VIDEOS POSTED)
https://www.tiktok.com/@newchoicegame
https://www.instagram.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
https://www.facebook.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
~~~~~
Book a FREE 45-Min New Choice Game Playtest:
https://tinyurl.com/PlaytestNewChoiceGame
~~~~~
Karen's Links
https://linktr.ee/karenlyu
https://www.hollisticvoicecoach.com/blog
~~~~~
Book a FREE 45-Min Vocal Discovery Call:
https://tinyurl.com/MeetKarenonZoom
~~~~~
612-299-2462
karen@holisticvoicecoach.com
newchoicegame@gmail.comi

* Are you overwhelmed? Feel free to reply with “Kickstarter Email” if you want a break until just before the launch.
* If you want to keep getting ALL the cool news, you don't have to do anything.

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Finding Your Focus ~ Blog No. 23

11/6/2023

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Hi Creative Explorers,

NEXT BLOG (rescheduled): Spontaneous Singing at Music City Multicon

~~~~~

I gave myself a couple days off last week, especially after an intense couple of months of being a newbie board game designer, getting through some tech issues + what's going on in the world today.

And, it took a bit to get refocused again.

What do I personally do when I need to focus?

7 WAYS TO FOCUS (feel free to pick and choose)

I color. It automatically puts you in a relaxed, meditative state.
I read the Bible for inspiration. Daily Verse: "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:6 NIV
I do group meditation.
I listen to a meditation track on YouTube, like this one:
https://youtu.be/HiTtEQ_X2o8?si=k6UoVBRSPaY7AMNj&t=438
I do a SQUEEZE/STRETCH/SHAKEOUT. "Emotion is created by motion." ~Tony Robbins
I do a loud, focused KARATE CHOP, with a deep belly breath.
I focus my eyes and do an om/God vocal meditation with steepled fingers.

After spending some time refocusing, I came up with some plans for Nov, Dec, + Jan:

NOVEMBER

1. Do 3 SMS videos per week:
a. Tuesdays (New Choice news)
b. Thursdays (How will _____ play? playtesting clips)
c. Saturdays (Which country did I land on?)
Get VERSION 2 New Choice game prototypes manufactured and ready for reviewers (with updated game board, pro rounded game cards, blue/green marbled earth dice, royal blue velvet drawstring bag, plus red, yellow, green, and blue wooden meeples)
Do "Conversations with Melissa" LIVE ADHD Renafi YouTube podcast (2K subscribers) on Nov 26, 2023 7pm-8pm (https://www.youtube.com/@RenaFi) + possibly 1 board game podcast tba
Create presave website with product demo presentation

DECEMBER

Send full New Choice: Improv Your Life board games to reviewers to play over the holidays
Send 15 PR pitches per week for Jan/Feb media features.
Send 6 pitches per week for podcasts
Attend Midwest Gamefest Online Dec 7-10, 2024 (https://www.midwestgamefest.org/online)

JANUARY

Do 5-10 podcasts
Do 5-10 media interviews
Attend Chattacon Jan 12-14, 2024 (https://chattacon.org)
Complete Kickstarter prelaunch presave page

SUPPORTER SHOUTOUT: Shoutout to DG Ellis, an enthusiastic Vanderbilt U Game Design Major who I met at the TN Table Games Con, back in September!

TESTIMONIAL
"Karen made the focus of the game feel like it was about the improv which was really fun. I liked getting to be creative. The length was perfect. I loved hearing about the countries and would want to talk to my family about travel. "
~ DG Ellis, Game Design Major ~ Vanderbilt University

~~~~~
NEW CHOICE Board Game SMS (Updated Video POSTED!)
https://www.tiktok.com/@newchoicegame
https://www.facebook.com/newchoicegame (NEW)
~~~~~
Book a FREE 45-Min New Choice Game Playtest:
https://tinyurl.com/PlaytestNewChoiceGame
~~~~~
Karen's Links
https://linktr.ee/karenlyu
https://www.hollisticvoicecoach.com/blog
~~~~~
Book a FREE 45-Min Vocal Discovery Call:
https://tinyurl.com/MeetKarenonZoom
~~~~~
612-299-2462
karen@holisticvoicecoach.com
newchoicegame@gmail.comi

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The Holistic Voice Coach Blog

November 28th, 2023

I'm Thankful

7 Superpowers of ADHD + 2 Videos ~ Blog No. 25

Spontaneous Singing at Music City Multicon ~ Blog No. 24

Finding Your Focus ~ Blog No. 23

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