NATS Chat Schedule + Replays
NATS Chat, sponsored by Inside View Press, invites guests to discuss various topics in an online webinar. Sessions are often held one Sunday per month of the academic year at 7–8 p.m. ET (6–7 p.m. CT; 5–6 p.m. MT; 4–5 p.m. PT). Kari Ragan is the host and coordinator for NATS Chat.
Thank you for another wonderful season!
Stay tuned for the 2025-26 season lineup announcement.
NATS Chat 2024-25 Season: Replays
Replays from the 2024-25 season will be shared on this page and in the archives.
MAY 18, 2025
Neurodiversity Affirming Voice Training
Featuring Alex Schenck, MS, CCC-SLP (she/her) and Ruchi Kapila, M.S., CCC-SLP (they/she)
Host: Kari Ragan (she/her)
The neurodiversity movement promotes the idea that all brains work in different ways and that typical is not better. Neurodivergent brains happen to differ from societal standards. In singers, such differences may contribute to valuable artistic strengths and perspectives. However, standard practices in voice training were not generally developed with neurodivergent singers in mind and may not meet their needs. With guests Alex Schenck and Ruchi Kapila, this NATS Chat will explore neurodivergent perspectives relating to performing voice and the application of neurodiversity affirming principles to voice training.
APRIL 13, 2025
Fear No Sound: Teaching Rough Vocal Effects in Popular Music
Featuring May Oskan
Co-hosts: Blake Cline and Kari Ragan
Rough or extreme vocal effects are commonly used in rock, blues, soul, and metal music. Recent research suggests that, with awareness and specific training, these sounds can be produced in a health protective way. This NATS chat will explore a functional approach to teaching rough vocal effects, and the challenges of developing evidence-informed teaching models for under-researched vocal styles. Guest May Oskan will share video clips of her work with students for demonstration and discussion.
MARCH 9, 2025
Mama Used to Say: Complementary Medicine Strategies Can Work
Featuring H. Steven Sims, MD, FACS
Host: Kari Ragan
Join us for a compelling NATS Chat with distinguished laryngologist Dr. H. Steven Sims, Director of the Chicago Institute for Voice Care at the University of Illinois Chicago Medical Center. Explore how complementary medicine can effectively support vocal health and improve voice performance. Gain valuable insights and practical tips on integrating traditional and alternative approaches to maintain a strong, healthy voice from an expert in the field.
FEBRUARY 2, 2025
Student-Centered Voice Pedagogy: Learning How to Work with Your Students
Featuring Jeanne Goffi-Fynn
Co-hosts: Kari Ragan and Nick Klein
In this NATS Chat, we will delve into the theory and philosophy of student-centered pedagogy, emphasizing its importance and applications in music education. We will share best-practice strategies specifically tailored for the studio environment, providing real-life examples to illustrate how these theories can be effectively connected to practice. Our discussion also will focus on supporting a diverse range of students, helping them to develop vocally and musically while fostering their confidence. Finally, we will explore methods to consistently bring out the best in your students throughout their musical journey, ensuring lifelong growth and development.
JANUARY 12, 2025
Brazilian and Portuguese Song: Repertoire, Pedagogy and Diction
Featuring Luciano Simões Silva and Juliana Franco
Co-hosts Carolina Botero and Kari Ragan
In this discussion, two singers and voice teachers with over 50 years of combined experience in performance, research, and education will explore vocal music from Brazil, Portugal, and beyond, encompassing both art and popular songs. Despite being the third most spoken European language globally, Portuguese-sung repertoire remains underrepresented in university curricula and concerts. The conversation will delve into the nuances of diction, the distinctions between Brazilian and European Portuguese, the extensive reach of the language across the world, and pedagogical methods for integrating this repertoire into both classical and popular music spheres, with a variety of examples from the repertoire and notable singers.
DECEMBER 8, 2024
A Conversation with acclaimed composer and lyricist Adam Guettel
Featuring Adam Guettel
Host: Kari Ragan
Adam Guettel is an acclaimed American composer and lyricist known for his innovative contributions to musical theatre. The grandson of legendary composer Richard Rodgers, Guettel has carved out his own distinctive niche with works such as "The Light in the Piazza," which won six Tony Awards, including Best Original Score. His music is celebrated for its intricate melodies and sophisticated orchestration, blending classical and contemporary styles. Join us for an insightful conversation with the renowned Adam Guettel as we discuss the evolution of modern musical theatre, his experiences in the industry, and his valuable insights and guidance as a coach.
NOVEMBER 3, 2024
The Tax Landscape for Independent Voice Teachers
Featuring Elaine Grogan Luttrull, CPA-PFS, AFC®
Co-hosts: Kari Ragan and Ian Howell
In this NATS Chat, Elaine Grogan Luttrull will delve into the tax implications for Independent Voice Studio Teachers. The discussion will focus on critical topics such as identifying deductible expenses, maintaining accurate financial records, and understanding the nuances of decisions around becoming a sole proprietor, LLC, or S Corp. Her expertise will help demystify the complex tax landscape, offering practical advice to help voice teachers structure tax considerations more effectively.
OCTOBER 13, 2024
Discovering Your Voice: Stretching Tips to Expand Your Range (and Mind)
Featuring Walt Fritz, PT
Host: Kari Ragan
This NATS Chat is dedicated to utilizing Walt Fritz’s expertise of the impact of manual therapy on singers’ stretching techniques. We will explore practical methods to integrate stretch and strength exercises that focus on the larynx and articulatory structures into our routine, helping to unlock new vocal potential and maintain vocal health. We also will explore touch-based cueing; concerns and benefits. This session is ideal for singers, vocal coaches, and therapists eager to explore innovative approaches to vocal care and performance.
- FRITZ 2024 The mechanism of action for laryngeal manual therapies: the need for an update
- Studies work from multiple perspectives
