Episode 312 Craig Colley
Craig Colley
From Trauma to Tranquility: The Healing Art of Soft Soothing Sounds Creator Craig Colley
Jeanne Pepper and Craig Colley at the PeppTalks Studios September 12, 2025
Craig Colley is a virtuoso composer, a classically trained musician, and the visionary creator behind the global platform, Soft Soothing Sounds. His work transcends traditional music, offering a virtual oasis of calm designed to promote self-care, meditation, and a positive escape from the relentless stress of modern life. Colley's professional legacy is immense, spanning over 50 years in music, during which he released 19 albums, composed over 1,000 songs, played more than 12,000 gigs, and even holds a Guinness World Record. This vast experience, including writing music for television shows on VH1, ABC, and CBS, laid the foundation for his current, deeply personal calling.
The second act of Craig's life was not a choice, but a transformation forged through hardship. In 2020, he endured a devastating mountain bike accident resulting in nine broken ribs and a fractured clavicle. This physical trauma was compounded by financial loss and the anxiety of his ongoing Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) diagnosis. Later, the onset of severe tinnitus and subsequent hearing loss threatened to silence his life's work completely. It was in this profound moment of vulnerability and isolation that Colley leaned on his strong faith and his innate artistic ability, realizing that music and visuals were the "miracle" that could distract and lift him from his lowest point.
This moment of clarity led to the creation of Soft Soothing Sounds. Colley took his combined expertise—as a master composer and an experienced videographer—and merged them into a powerful medium. He traveled to stunning, natural locations, capturing breathtaking landscapes and nature sounds. He then composed and improvised original piano music, writing his melodic pieces "live" to specifically pair with the visuals he had captured. The result is a unique, cinematic experience where the soothing audio and video are entirely created by Colley, offering what he calls the "Power of Positive Distraction" for those facing pain, stress, or insomnia.
Colley's mission is now to share this healing platform with others. As a grateful member of the CLL Society and a health advocate, his work is deeply informed by his personal journey, designed to help others relax, recover, focus, or sleep in a serene environment. Albums like Soft & Smokey, Glisten, and Bodie have garnered thousands of views, with listeners reporting a reduction in stress, anxiety, and pain. Craig Colley’s story is a testament to the fact that turning personal trauma into a powerful, positive mission can create a legacy of tranquility for millions around the world.
Wikipedia Page
You can learn more about Craig Colley and sample his music library here
Episode 312
Guest Craig Colley
Host and Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Original Theme song: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to volunteer Sue Van der Merwe
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General Disclaimer & Non-Endorsement Notice
The views and opinions expressed by our guest, Craig Colley, are strictly their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or position of the host, Jeanne Pepper, or the PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper website. Mention of or reference to any specific product, service, streaming platform, or business, including "Soft Soothing Sounds," does not constitute or imply an endorsement, recommendation, or certification by this program. Furthermore, the host and blog have no financial relationship with the guest and receive no revenue, compensation, or commission from the sale, use, or distribution of any of the products or services discussed. This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at PepptalkswithJeanne@gmail.com
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