Success looks effortless from the outside. Applause. Recognition. Achievement.
But behind the podium, the pressure tells a very different story.

In this episode, award-winning Canadian conductor Ken Hsieh shares what success really feels like beyond the spotlight. Born in Edmonton and acclaimed internationally for his vibrant performances and leadership, Ken’s journey reveals the unseen challenges behind a life in music. From the emotional and psychological weight of conducting to rethinking what “success” truly means.

Ken dives into:

• How success varies for every individual

• The discipline and resilience required to sustain excellence

• The psychological demands of leadership in high-pressure careers

• His experiences shaping perceptions of happiness, fame, and fulfillment

• The evolving role of women in the world of conducting

This conversation is a reminder that success isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s a deeply personal journey shaped by experience, choice, and perspective.

Learn more about Ken Hsieh and his work at https://kenhsieh.com/.

No Set Definition is a podcast that challenges the pressure to always be more, do more, and push harder. Through raw, honest conversations, we talk about resilience, burnout, failure, and the emotional side of achievement , the parts rarely shared out loud.

This is a space for rethinking success, questioning the grind, and choosing a definition that actually fits your life.