#263: I Wrote an Album for My Wife’s 30th Birthday — Here’s What I Love Most About Her
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My wife, Leah, turned the big 3-0 yesterday!
To celebrate her, we’re doing two things:
- We’re in Florence, Italy for two weeks eating copious amounts of gelato, pizza, and gnocchi… introducing our 2 year old daughter to our favorite city
- I’m releasing this episode to share what I love most about her, using some AI music to add an extra little oomph!
So this episode is part love letter…
Part reflection on the biggest wisdom Leah has brought into my life (that I think will serve you too)…
And part creative experiment—sharing a unique way you can use AI to express gratitude and bring joy to the people who make your life meaningful.
I can say with 100% certainty: I would not be the person I am today without Leah.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to share the heart and wisdom of someone that means so much to me — can’t wait for you to listen!
Stay Curious,
Brandon
P.S. Did you want to get direct links to the songs I share in this episode? Check them out below…
Show Notes Generated With The Help of AI!
00:00 - Introduction to Beyond Curious and today's guest, Leah (Brandon’s Wife)
Brandon sets the tone for a special episode recorded in celebration of his wife Leah’s 30th birthday, which they’re celebrating in Florence, Italy—a city that has played a significant role in their love story. He shares how the episode is both a love letter to Leah and a reflection on the systems of love and support that enable creative dreamers.
00:56 - The love story behind Florence: Engagements, announcements, and milestones
Brandon recounts their deep connection with Florence, from Leah’s study abroad experience to their engagement, pregnancy announcement, and now, visiting with their daughter. It’s a heartfelt journey through time in a city they love.
01:42 - Celebrating the supporters behind every dreamer
Brandon dives into the purpose of the episode: honoring Leah as the biggest support system in his life. He emphasizes the importance of the people who stand behind the dreamers—those who make wild ideas possible.
02:58 - Creating AI music as a tool for love and reflection
Brandon introduces the episode’s unique format—original AI-generated songs written for Leah. He shares how music creation has deepened their connection and invites listeners to use this process for expressing love and appreciation.
04:30 - Behind the scenes: Why “If It Weren’t for Her” captures Leah’s magic
Brandon explains the inspiration behind his first song, “If It Weren’t for Her,” and how he used ChatGPT and reflection to create it. He breaks down three key themes: Leah as CEO of their household, her unwavering support, and her role as the bringer of joy and color.
06:00 - Leah as CEO of the household: Grounding a space cadet entrepreneur
Brandon shares how Leah helps him function in day-to-day life—planning, organizing, and maintaining social connections. He highlights how her strengths balance his and keep their family rooted and connected.
07:41 - The “joy and color painter”: How Leah adds flavor to life
Brandon reflects on the contrast between his utilitarian college days and Leah’s culinary artistry. Her passion for baking, meal planning, and creating vibrant experiences has transformed their family life into something joyful and nurturing.
09:28 - Unwavering support through every leap of faith
From high school sweethearts to globetrotting adults, Brandon highlights Leah’s unconditional belief in his vision—even through financial risks, job transitions, and life pivots. Her loyalty and trust have been his foundation.
11:52 - 🎵 Song: “If It Weren’t for Her”
A playful yet profound tribute to Leah’s grounding presence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of how she supports their life—from managing the chaos to believing in Brandon’s biggest dreams.
15:44 - Wisdom from wedding vows: Leah's presence and playful spirit
Brandon reads part of his wedding vows, remembering Leah’s early love for children and her quirky habits. These anecdotes serve as a bridge to the next song, which celebrates her life-long dream of being a mother.
20:23 - 🎵 Song: “Moose Booties”
A deeply emotional song about Leah’s dream of motherhood, sparked by a tiny pair of moose booties Brandon bought in Sweden. It tracks her vision from teenage daydreams to the joyful reality of parenting their daughter Kaya.
24:05 - Gratitude for the best mother and household CEO
Brandon shares his appreciation for Leah’s role as mother, partner, and life organizer. He revisits parts of his wedding vows and offers heartfelt thanks for the selfless, quirky, and deeply loving person that she is.
26:16 - 🎵 Song: “The Way She Loves”
A tender ballad capturing Leah’s essence—the quiet power of her love, her nurturing presence, and how she makes space for others even in her exhaustion. A love letter in lyrical form.
30:47 - 🎵 Song: “These Are the Days”
A joyful, reflective finale reminding listeners to savor the present. It highlights family rituals, toddler giggles, and the beauty of everyday life. A celebration of the now, inspired by Leah’s grounding influence.
33:53 - Closing words and birthday wishes
Brandon wraps up the episode with a direct message to Leah, expressing his love and gratitude for their life together. He thanks listeners for joining the celebration and invites them to reflect on and honor the people who support their dreams.
Links & Resources:
- Episode 246: Brandon shares his full process for creating AI-generated music
- Episode 252: “GPT biking” — Brandon’s method for brainstorming creative ideas while cycling
- Suno (AI music tool): Tool used by Brandon to generate original songs for Leah
- Beyond Curious Podcast: Explore more episodes and insights
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