We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Suzy Turner a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Suzy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Soulshine Rhythm Experience was born upon reflection of my own transformative drumming journey. People often ask how I got into this unusual business and I will often say, “Drumming saved my life.” But what does that really mean? For me, the answer wasn’t evident until many years later when I was safely on the other side of a life-altering traumatic event. Reflecting on my chosen path to healing, it became clear that the drum was a significant part of that healing. Fueled by curiosity, I began to dig into this. Could drumming really be so powerful? I quickly discovered that the answer was a resounding YES and was instantly inspired to keep learning about the transformative healing power of drumming and rhythm. I saw an opportunity to help others by doing what I love to do and share the gift of connection through the universal language of rhythm. I began to train and take classes and attend workshops. I connected with Drum Circle Facilitators to learn as much as I could about the many applications of this unique role. I started planning events like community drum circles and before I knew it, I had people referring me to friends and family members for private drum lessons as well as events. When people started sharing their stories with me about the empowering experiences they had while drumming with me, I felt so incredibly inspired and knew that this was it. This is what I was supposed to do.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My rhythmic journey began training with a West African drumming class in Austin, Texas. Soon after, we started performing throughout the Austin area with a women’s drumming group. I loved the intense, disciplined training necessary in learning the traditional rhythms. It was that initial experience with the profound connection that drumming provides that first inspired me to pursue the field of drum circle facilitation. Sixteen years later, as the Founder of Soulshine Rhythm Experience, I am trained in multiple, evidence-based protocols that utilize rhythm + group music making as tools for supporting connection. These facilitation methods, including HealthRHYTHMS, Rhythm 2 Recovery and Village Music Circles, all invite participants to relax, release and engage in making music together, regardless of age or ability.

More than ever, people are feeling isolated and disconnected. Organizations are struggling to keep employees engaged, motivated and inspired. Families are struggling to communicate and so many people – of all ages – are dealing with anxiety and depression at levels we haven’t seen before. Simply stated, through the power of drums and rhythm, I help individuals and organizations RECONNECT and find their inner rhythm, experiencing profound connection and collaboration on the visceral level.

Since 2016, Soulshine Rhythm Experience has hosted hundreds of interactive drum & rhythm events throughout Central Texas including corporate conferences, leadership training, retreats, workshops, wellness seminars and private and community drum events. My events are inclusive, engaging and no experience is required to participate. We embark on this rhythmic journey together and I get to be your guide every step of the way. I am incredibly passionate about connecting, empowering and unifying others through music and drumming is the perfect instrument because it is available to absolutely everyone.

I drum with companies and executive leaders who want an innovative way to support and empower their teams, with children who are learning about mindfulness and cooperation. From teenagers struggling with depression and adults recovering from addiction, to seniors living with dementia and active agers looking to try something new. More and more, my private session clients are therapists seeking effective self-care practices and have heard of the many therapeutic benefits that drumming offers.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

The day that I quite unexpectedly became a jobless, homeless, single mother literally overnight taught me that I am far stronger than I ever thought.

Life is full of unexpected challenges. This I knew. What I didn’t realize was that you never really know what you are capable of until you are faced with the opportunity to grow. Thankfully, the tools we need to overcome these challenges are ones that we develop as a result of the hardship itself.

In the years that followed this sudden shift in circumstances, many wonderful things happened. I was gifted with the help of strangers, my creativity allowed me to earn money by utilizing the skills I had developed over my lifetime, and I developed an incredible relationship with my son. And I uncovered my purpose of helping others heal from their own traumatic experiences.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Authenticity, reliability and professionalism.

From my experience and from what my clients tell me, these traits are becoming increasingly rare.
I take pride in the work I do. I show up when I say I will. I provide consistent, quality service and I do it with a grateful heart and a positive spirit.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.soulshinerhythm.com/home
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulshinerhythm/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulshinerhythms

Image Credits
Javier Gonzalez Terri Baroden Summer Miles