Episode #75

Betsy Hammer

Episode Title:

Dream It. Believe It. Do It. Betsy Hammer's Lifelong Journey of Music, Mentorship, and Making It Happen

Episode Description:

Some dreams begin so early that they become part of who you are. For singer, songwriter, actress, vocal coach, and producer Betsy Hammer, that dream started when she was just three years old. Encouraged by a preschool teacher who recognized her gifts and parents who filled her home with music and unwavering belief, Betsy never questioned whether she belonged in the entertainment world—only how she would get there.

Throughout this special 75th episode of Fanatical DreamHer, Betsy reflects on a remarkable career that has spanned Broadway, recording studios, feature films, television, music production, and fifteen years with Adam Sandler's Happy Madison Productions. Along the way, she shares unforgettable moments—from working alongside Cher and Paul McCartney to mentoring the next generation of performers. Just as openly, she talks about the challenges she faced, including overcoming professional skepticism, recovering from a devastating hip injury, and choosing gratitude even in life's most difficult seasons.

At the heart of Betsy's story is a simple philosophy that has guided her entire life: "Dream it. Believe it. Do it." Her journey is filled with encouragement for anyone pursuing a dream, reminding listeners that persistence, kindness, gratitude, and believing in yourself can open doors that once seemed impossible.

As a special celebration of Fanatical DreamHer's 75th episode, be sure to stay through the end of the podcast to hear the debut of the new Dream Her theme song in its entirety, co-written by Betsy Hammer especially for the Fanatical DreamHer community.

Key Discussion Points (with time stamps):

  • (02:00) Discovering her dream of entertaining at just three years old

  • (03:25) The lifelong influence of her parents' encouragement and positivity

  • (04:27) Early milestones in theater, music, and vocal performance

  • (06:31) Meeting Grammy-winning producer Brooks Arthur and joining Adam Sandler's circle

  • (07:59) Beginning a 15-year career with Happy Madison Productions

  • (08:34) Producing and coaching Cher during the recording of Zookeeper

  • (10:45) Earning respect by letting her work speak for itself

  • (11:43) Recovering from a devastating hip injury and returning to performing

  • (13:20) Her daily mindset of gratitude and the origin of "Dream it. Believe it. Do it."

  • (14:37) The Broadway callback that made her realize she had achieved her dream

  • (15:29) Mentoring students and celebrating their professional successes

  • (17:16) The people who encouraged and supported her throughout her career

  • (20:06) Advice for young performers pursuing multiple creative passions

  • (22:18) Why singing remains her greatest professional love

  • (23:09) Meeting and dancing with Paul McCartney—one of her most treasured memories

  • (24:40) Learning to love herself in order to fully love others and her work

Notable Quotes:

  • "Dream it, believe it, do it."

  • "Grab the gratitude."

  • "If you dreamed it, believe it."

  • "Make it happen, make it happen."

  • "You have to love yourself in order to love everything else."

  • "Always be kind, be positive and have fun because people like to work with someone who's fun to work with."

Takeaways:

  • Believing in your dream begins with believing in yourself.

  • Gratitude can become a powerful anchor during life's most difficult moments.

  • Persistence and preparation often create opportunities that seem impossible.

  • Mentorship and encouragement can change the trajectory of another person's life.

  • Success is built through both talent and the ability to treat others with kindness and respect.

  • Loving yourself creates the foundation for serving and encouraging others.

  • Dreams don't have to fit into one box—you can pursue multiple passions throughout your life.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://www.betsyhammer.com/
• Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/betsyhammerofficial/ (@betsyhammerofficial)
• Email: betsyhammermusic@gmail.com or betsyhammeractor@gmail.com

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher
• Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer:
https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/
• April's email: april@fanaticaldreamher.com

Join the DreamHer Community:

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Dream Her Theme Song

Stay tuned after the interview to hear the full debut performance of the new Dream Her theme song, introduced during this special 75th episode of Fanatical DreamHer.

Lyrics & Music for Dream Her by Betsy Hammer, Susan Sheridan and Larry Treadwell. Hammertime Music (ASCAP) / Boomers Mothers Music (BMI) / Simple Roger Music (BMI). Copyright © 2026. All Rights Reserved.

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