Episode #21
Chronically Singing: POTS, Hypermobile EDS, and Hypermobile Spectrum Disorders
In this episode of On The Voice, Dr. Marita Stryker, DMA, PAVA-RV, and Joanne Bozeman, BM, join hosts Mackenzie Bykowski, MM, and Jenna Battipaglia, MS, CCC-SLP, PAVA-RV, for our first-ever double guest episode. Marita and Joanne are the researchers and educators behind ChronicallySinging.com, a platform dedicated to gathering stories and resources for singers navigating invisible, dynamic chronic conditions. Marita holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Contemporary Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory, where she was the first graduate of the program, and is an Assistant Professor of Contemporary Voice and Musical Theatre at St. Olaf College and a PAVA-Recognized Vocologist. Her performing background spans musical theatre, opera, and years as a lead singer on Celebrity and Holland America cruise lines. Joanne has taught singing for nearly fifty years, most recently on the faculty of Lawrence University's Conservatory of Music, and is co-author of the ground-breaking book Singing Through Change: Women's Voices in Midlife, Menopause, and Beyond. Marita and Joanne walk us through the science behind Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS), and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) — and how each can directly affect vocal production, from breath support and stability to the way collagen and connective tissue changes show up at the level of the vocal folds and larynx. We dig into what the emerging laryngology research says about vocal injury risk in this population, how dramatically these conditions can fluctuate day to day, and what it means to be strong in rehearsal on Monday and struggling by Tuesday. We also talk candidly about stigma - the pressure singers with invisible conditions feel to prove how serious their symptoms are while also downplaying them so they aren't seen as a liability, and what disclosure really looks like as a professional risk calculation. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general educational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional medical, legal, financial, or other advice. Views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. Individual experiences and results may vary — always consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
