Steve Azar’s Journey: Grammy Nomination, Health Challenges, and the Power of Perseverance

12/06/24 • 50 min

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith welcome special guest Steve Azar—a Mississippi Delta native, hit songwriter, recording artist, music producer, and author. Eric shares how he first met Steve back in 2015 on the golf course, and they reminisce about Steve’s journey in the entertainment industry, from starting at the young age of 11 to becoming one of the most downloaded artists on Napster. Despite facing numerous challenges, including throat surgery, Steve's resilience and unwavering determination drove him to success.

Steve discusses the years of hard work that led to his breakthrough, as he didn’t land his first hit until the age of 37. He also shares the excitement of being part of a project nominated for a Grammy—a collaboration featuring multiple artists that highlights the power of music and community.

In addition to his music career, the conversation delves into the epidemic of obesity. Laura and Dr. Eric emphasize the importance of educating health officials on recognizing obesity as a disease and the need for more comprehensive support to ensure effective treatment.

Steve opens up about balancing a demanding career with health and wellness, emphasizing how self-care and mental strength have helped him persevere through the ups and downs. Whether it’s signing with agents, creating chart-topping songs, or embracing the journey, Steve’s story is a testament to persistence and believing in oneself.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, music industry insights, and more.
Follow Steve Azar on Instagram at steveazar.
Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith_ and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

Previous Episode

Creating, Healing, and Growing: Marley Jaxx on Content, Wellness, and Motivation

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Laura and Dr. Eric Smith welcome award-winning filmmaker and social media strategist Marley Jaxx. Laura shares how Marley reignited her passion for creating content through her innovative “docu-stunt” concept—a staged stunt in documentary form—motivating Laura to step up her YouTube game.

Marley takes us through her journey from working as a dental hygienist to becoming a viral content creator. She reveals the secrets behind creating impactful content, marketing strategies, and building an engaged audience. Marley emphasizes the importance of consistency, hard work, and patience in achieving success, whether it’s growing a social media platform, embarking on a wellness journey, or building a brand from scratch.

The discussion dives into overcoming challenges, staying motivated when progress feels slow, and the mindset needed to persevere—whether it’s your 100th day at the gym, post-bariatric surgery, or creating content. Marley also opens up about her personal wellness journey, including her battle with adenocarcinoma, undergoing a hysterectomy, and how prioritizing health transformed her life and content creation.

This episode is packed with wellness insights, motivational advice, and actionable tips for creators and dreamers alike. Tune in for inspiration and practical strategies to keep moving forward, no matter where you are in your journey.

Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.

Next Episode

Sleep Optimization for Better Health: Todd Anderson’s Journey to Wellness

In this episode of the Pop Culture Podcast, Todd Anderson, founder of Dream Recovery, shares his transformative journey from childhood obesity to becoming a leader in health and wellness through sleep optimization.

Todd opens up about how he built confidence through fitness, pursued a career in sports, and uncovered the critical role sleep plays in physical performance and mental well-being. Inspired to help others, Todd collaborated with sleep doctors and developed innovative products designed to enhance sleep quality and overall health.

Key topics discussed include:

How sleep impacts overall health and wellness
The science behind sleep optimization for peak performance
Common sleep disorders and how to manage them
Tips for combating sleep deprivation and improving rest
The best sleep products, supplements, and tools for better sleep
Understanding anxiety’s role in sleep and creating positive sleep associations

Whether you’re looking to improve your sleep, manage stress, or enhance your overall health, this episode offers practical advice and expert insights to help you unlock the restorative power of sleep.

You can find Todd Anderson on Instagram here.
Follow Dr. Eric Smith on Instagram at doctorericsmith and visit his Linktree for more.

Follow Laura Alexis on Poprecoverysystems and visit https://www.poprecoverysystems.com for more.