Carson Tahoe Health

This Is Us: A Sound Ideas Profile Questionnaire with CHRO, Michelle Miller

I knew there was a way to take what I loved about music – connecting to life and people – and translate it into taking care of the people that take care of people.

What first sparked your passion for music, and how did it shape your early years? I was always fascinated by music and wanting to play instruments so I could play along with my favorite songs. In Kindergarten I learned how to play piano because I wanted to play, “It’s a Small World” and in junior high I transitioned to the cello only because my mom said drums were too loud. I didn’t love the cello until I taught myself how to play, “Phantom of the Opera” songs. In my 20’s when I was living on my own, I bought a drum kit and finally learned how to play them. It was so therapeutic!

    Can you tell us about a standout moment or performance that had a profound impact on your life and why?

    Quite a few stand out. My band played every venue on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. But the biggest moments were when Alternative Press named us one of the, “Best Unsigned Bands” and that same summer we did some dates on Warped Tour. Being able to be on the road with the bands I loved listening to was incredible.

    Transitions in life can bring both challenges and growth. How did your mental health play a role in that shift, and did you find that your emotional well-being guided or influenced your decision to move into healthcare?

    While the music industry can be very exciting it can also be very dark and I was exposed to a lot that was unhealthy and unpleasant. I saw friends pass away from overdoses and tour bus crashes. There was some struggle being a female in a male dominated industry. When my dad was in the hospital, something clicked. I knew there was a way to take what I loved about music – connecting to life and people – and translate it into taking care of the people that take care of people.

      Music has been shown to promote healing and emotional connection. How has your musical background informed the way you support the mental and emotional health of others in your healthcare work?

      Since I was a little kid, music was the soundtrack of my life. My experience in that industry also allows me insight and empathy into mental or emotional struggles as well as addiction. Now with a PhD in psychology, it’s added an additional lens. I’m always sitting back and observing and contemplating how I as an individual or we as an organization can do better to support our incredible teams.

        Music is often used as a tool to manage stress and promote mental clarity. How does music continue to support your mental well-being today, and in what ways does it help you stay grounded?

        Being able to be creative in this role and collaborate to bring on tools like the Calm app start to connect the past and present together even more. I prefer soundscapes or instrumentals while I am doing desk work since it keeps me focused. Otherwise, I tend to play the same songs or albums on repeat until I know every word to sing along and until I can play along on the drums so it gives me an outlet to stay grounded. 

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