Maxine Linehan
Internationally recognized Irish American Songstress Maxine Linehan joins us from the snowy slopes of Vermont for this week’s On The Couch. Having performed before sold-out crowds on the most prestigious stages throughout the world – from the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris to New York’s Lincoln Center, her shows are known for unlocking a love for a musician or band that you didn’t think possible. Maxine has been praised by the New York Times for being “fiercely talented” and the Huffington Post named her a “remarkable talent” – she is not a performer you want to miss.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
After a recent near death health situation 6 months ago, I’ve stopped looking at the parts of me and learned to look at myself as one whole, magical being!
What was your proudest moment?
Every moment I look at my children. I promise the answers will get less nauseating!
What is your favorite drink?
A perfectly aged red burgundy.
What is your favorite food?
A perfectly cooked Vermont Wagu steak.
What is your favorite condiment?
Tough decision. Vinegar – any kind, malt, balsamic, red wine vinegar, love them all! But I also adore siracha!
What is your current obsession?
Learning to be present.
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
Overindulging in perfectly aged red burgundy!
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
Completing and performing my autobiographical solo show.
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Perfectly aged red burgundy, but really, it’s not a waste right?
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Scrolling social media. Why is Tik Tok so addictive?
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
We live in a hyper-stressful, fearful world, that’s the threat to all of us human beings and I’m working every single day to remove both from my life!
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Resilience from my Dad, compassion from my Mom. I know that’s not a single trait, but a single from each ok?
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Overindulging in perfectly aged red burgundy!
What in the world most thrills you?
Live Performance. Being on a stage connecting with people through story and song is like nothing else!
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
The ubiquitously incorrect use of the word “like’! I drive my kids CRAZY! “Mom, it was like amazing!”. “Hmmmm. So it wasn’t amazing? Just something similar?” “MOM!!!!!” LOL!
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
Not being able to find my note – which was out of thin air to be fair – in “Not For Me” in Crazy For You. 3 nights in a row. So the music director just started giving it to me! Also, anytime I totally lose the lyric or worse make up a nonsensical replacement and then see the confused/horrified faces of my music director and band!
What is your favorite place in the world?
My home
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
A kind heart. And I hit the jackpot with my husband.
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Dogs!
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
I’m alive, you’re reading about me, hopefully you’ll be inspired to listen to my music, it’s already the best day of my life.
What is your personal motto?
NEVER, EVER GIVE UP!
