In this episode, I sit down with Katlyn Cook, a creator whose journey through music, mental health, and entrepreneurship reveals the power of starting over. We talk about how losing—and reclaiming—her voice shaped her adult life, why stepping away from comfort was the first step toward healing, and how she built a podcast, a business, and a creative life from the ground up. Whether you’re rediscovering your passions or figuring out how to turn a hard season into a hopeful new chapter, Kat’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to begin again.

We Chat About:

• Her early love of singing and why she hid it for years
• How burnout and overworking masked deeper mental health struggles
• The dark turning point that pushed her to change her life
• Starting her podcast I NEED A FRIEND POD to create a healing space for others
• How she’s overcoming stage fright and performing with her band
• What daily habits keep her grounded as a creative entrepreneur
• Advice for anyone feeling stuck or scared to start over

About Katlyn Cook:

Katlyn Cook is a Colorado-based creator, podcaster, and musician who helps foster honest conversations around mental health and personal growth. After years of pushing her passions aside to meet others’ expectations, Kat reclaimed her voice—literally and figuratively—through singing, storytelling, and building community. She is the host of I NEED A FRIEND POD, a podcast focused on giving people a safe space to share their stories, and the founder of Cozy Porch Creations, a front-porch decorating business that blends her love of creativity, nature, and connection. Kat’s work is a celebration of resilience, authenticity, and choosing yourself, one imperfect day at a time.

Connect with Katlyn:

Podcast: https://pod.link/1805069875

Instagram: @katlyn.christine

Threads: @katlyn.christine

Connect with Julian:

Check out the loves music podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL