Behind the Music: Burnout, Success and the Pressure to Perform | Hilary Gleason | E68

The music industry creates the songs people turn to in their hardest moments -- but who takes care of the people behind the music? Hilary Gleason, co-founder and executive director of Backline, joins JoJo and Vanessa to unpack the mental health struggles artists, crew members, and their families face behind the scenes. They discuss burnout, mental health stigma, the pressure to always perform, and how fans and the industry can better support the people behind the music. Hilary shares how healthier boundaries, stronger support systems, and accessible care can create a more sustainable future for the people behind the music.

In this episode, JoJo, Vanessa and Hilary discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(03:50) Breaking Mental Health Stigma in Music

(09:50) The Warning Signs We Mistake for Success

(19:21) Taking Care of the People Behind the Music

(32:43) The Boundaries That Keep You Well

(39:46) The Mental Health Lesson Hilary Learned Herself

Hilary Gleason is the co-founder and executive director of Backline, a nonprofit connecting music industry professionals and their families with mental health and wellness resources. Through Backline, she works to make mental health support more accessible for artists, crew members, and the wider music community.

Resources Mentioned:

B-line hotline: Call 855-BLINE99 or text 254-639

B-line Website: https://backline.care/b-line/