We were lucky to catch up with Jean Larie Flaherty recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jean Larie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?
I’ve played guitar and wrote songs since I was in high school, but didn’t focus on that path until my youngest graduated high school and I was 50. I kinda kick myself in the rear for not at least practicing during those years, but Moms are busy and that was my job, raising 3 kids to be happy, independent adults. I might have taken a little more creative time for myself but life moves fast. I have no regrets, maybe I am exactly where I need to be!!
I love, love, love what I’ve accomplished since 2006. When I decided to find some songwriting education, I found the “Song School” run thru Planet Bluegrass which also puts on the Telluride Bluegrass Festival,
I discovered so many great friends, and unique opportunities thru this one week course that takes place every August in Lyons, CO. It was a twist of fate that really propelled what I was trying to do as a musician/songwriter.
I guess I’m a “late bloomer” but maybe all that growth somehow served me.
Jean Larie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I live in Minturn, a small town in the Colorado high country. I’ve played guitar since I was 16 but pursuing songwriting since 2006. I love everything about songs. My songs speak to me in a spiritually therapeutic way. I have 3 albums (since 2013) and an EP out on various streaming platforms. This isn’t really a career but a journey of discovering who I am and what brings me joy..
Since 2024 I have been the president of Radio Free Minturn, a low powered community radio station that was actually a pirate station in the 1990s until it became licensed by the FCC. I love this station. I love the DJs and the gathering of a music community to promote all types of music. I am deeply committed (as a volunteer) to make a difference in our small mountain communities and to connect people and bring us all together through the love and appreciation of music.
I guess I really am an old hippy and believe that love and music can make a difference. All you need is love –
Love is all you need.
I am proud of this venture and hope to grow and sustain Radio Free Minturn and pass the network baton on to the next generation.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
My story and the inspiration I would like to pass forward is that anyone and everyone is creative in some aspect. Whether it is painting or writing or music or your specialized work. Whatever you creative endeavor is – fulfilling that brings more love and more joy into the world. It is your calling and your gift to the world.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
I believe my story is that you are never too old to create and to be the best version of yourself. When I first started songwriting, I told my husband I didn’t think my songs would amount to much because I was too old. He replied that “Grandma Moses was 80 when she started painting”. Also, “what age would you like to start?”
I think that is when I decided I could do anything and I try to pay that sentiment forward to whoever I meet, you can accomplish anything you want.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: jean larie
- Facebook: Jean Flaherty
- Youtube: Jean Larie
- Soundcloud: Jean Larie
Image Credits
Natalie De Stephano