The Sounding Board Sessions
The Sounding Board Sessions is where music and mental health meet. Hosted by songwriter and artist Nik Lizcano and licensed therapist Emily Litzow, this podcast dives into the psychology behind songs—unpacking the emotions, mental health themes, and songwriting techniques that make music so powerful. Together, along with the occasional special guest, they’ll share stories, insights, and conversations that reveal how music reflects and shapes the human experience.
Episodes

Aug 18, 2025
Aug 18, 2025
52 min
This week on The Sounding Board Sessions, we sit down with one of our favorite humans—singer-songwriter, violist and baker Patrick Monnius—to dive into his track Some Days from his new album Looking Up. We talk about the heart behind the song, the importance of community, and how simple practices of gratitude can shift the way we experience everyday life.

Jul 28, 2025
Jul 28, 2025
47 min
On this episode of The Sounding Board Sessions, we explore the powerful connection between mental and physical health through Nik’s new single “Indestructible,” released July 25th under his artist name, Z’cano. Joined by featured artist and co-writer Rochelle Smith (aka Ro) and her former personal trainer Seresta Shantrell—founder of The Trap Nashville gym—Emily and Nik dive into conversations about resilience, strength, and how the mind and body can work together to help us overcome what once felt impossible.

Jul 14, 2025
Jul 14, 2025
56 min
In the first episode of The Sounding Board Sessions, Emily (therapist) and Nik (songwriter) unpack why Doechii’s song “Anxiety” feels like it. Emily covers the origins of anxiety and some coping tools, while Nik covers Doechii’s rise to fame and the art of sampling. Tune in for a blend of mental health insight and music analysis and discover how songs can help us better understand ourselves and the world.

Jul 10, 2025







