Freestyle, Family, and Finding Freedom with Gavin Masumiya
Manage episode 493792572 series 2968201
In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Gavin Masumiya shares his emotional journey from a shy, self-conscious child to a confident speaker, coach, and musical artist. Through freestyle rap, public speaking, and deeply personal songwriting—especially after the loss of his mother—Gavin discovered the healing power of voice and vulnerability. Listeners will be inspired by his resilience, creativity, and unique approach to coaching others into authentic expression.
Guest Bio:
Gavin Masumiya is a voice coach, speaker, and freestyle rapper who helps people unlock their authentic expression through the power of voice. A former behavioral therapist and English teacher in Japan, Gavin now works with clients around the world to overcome self-doubt and step into their truth. Following the passing of his mother, he transformed grief into artistic healing through songwriting, releasing tracks under his artist name, Masu. Gavin also facilitates coaching programs, mentors aspiring speakers, and contributes to purpose-driven organizations that align with his mission of emotional transformation.
Main Topics:
· Gavin’s journey from shy child to confident speaker and coach
· Discovering freestyle rap as a tool for healing and self-expression
· Using creativity and music to process grief and honor his mother
· Launching a music career under the name Masu
· Creating “legacy appointments” through recorded conversations
· Coaching professionals to unleash their authentic voice
· The impact of mastermind groups and the power of asking for help
· Future ambitions, including a TEDx Talk and potential book
Resources mentioned:
· Michael’s website: https://www.gavinmasumiya.com/
· Supporter: Real Life Prosthetics
· Supporter: Full Circle Boards
· Supporter: Sincerely Sawyer Photography
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Chapters
1. Rich celebrates 10 years of the podcast (00:00:00)
2. Gavin's shy beginnings and Japanese-American upbringing (00:01:00)
3. Freestyle rap as a confidence-building tool (00:04:30)
4. Grieving through songwriting after his mother’s passing (00:09:00)
5. Writing music at her bedside and preserving her voice (00:11:00)
6. The power of "Iteraki Masu" and creating a legacy through song (00:14:30)
7. "Rebirth Day" – a birthday tribute song to his mother (00:18:00)
8. Discovering coaching and public speaking in Japan (00:24:00)
9. Joining Toastmasters and developing Flowfam (00:25:20)
10. Mastermind groups and the value of male friendships (00:32:00)
11. Collaborations and speaking at schools with Ray Lozano (00:34:40)
12. Feel-good coaching stories: Siren and a tech manager’s rise (00:39:00)
13. How to connect with Gavin and his virtual coaching (00:44:30)
14. Vocal Mastery Assessment explained (00:45:30)
15. Podcasting: Gavin’s past show and future plans (00:46:00)
16. Podcasting insights and Rich’s advice for starting (00:51:00)
17. What Gavin would tell his younger self (00:56:00)
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