Influential Woman · Alzheimer's Education
Brenda Freed
BA, MM
Co-Creator of Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's, Co-creator of the Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer’s Awareness Program and Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer’s Disease Picture Book
Stonewall, TX 78671
Her Story
About Brenda
Brenda Freed is the Co-Creator of Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer’s, an innovative Alzheimer’s Awareness Program established in 2016. The program offers a digital, video-based, educational program designed to help children and their families understand, connect with, and care for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or any other type of dementia. Building on her early work pioneering the Music Therapy Programs at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics between 1982 and 1990, Brenda has combined her background in music education and therapy to create meaningful, accessible resources that now reach families worldwide. The Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer’s Awareness Program and Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Disease Picture Book initiatives continue to grow across multiple platforms, including its official website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. A talented musician, educator, and creative entrepreneur, Brenda has released ten albums as a singer-songwriter and continues to teach voice, piano, and guitar through her company, Creative Moondance Treasures, Inc. Her passion for both music and community has inspired generations of students and audiences alike. Brenda has also published numerous articles related to music therapy and Alzheimer's education, further contributing to the advancement of arts-based learning and wellness. Beyond her professional work, Brenda is deeply committed to philanthropy and social causes. She actively supports animal rights and protection efforts and donates to organizations such as Shriner's Hospitals for Children, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and various environmental initiatives. In her personal time, she enjoys bicycling tours, staying physically active, and spending time outdoors camping and traveling embracing a lifestyle that reflects her creativity, compassion, and lifelong commitment to helping others through music and education.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Brenda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong foundation my parents provided, raising my sister and me to be independent and resilient. Their unwavering support throughout my college years was instrumental in helping me pursue my passions with confidence. I was also fortunate to have mentors who recognized my potential, nurtured my self-confidence, and encouraged me to aim high and achieve my goals. Their guidance and belief in me have been invaluable influences on both my personal and professional growth.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was to do what I love so that I will love what I do, and therefore, not see it as "work."
I also received advice to keep doing what I'm doing, if I'm enJOYing it, even when others don't seem to be supportive.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be fearless in pursuing your passion. Believe in yourself, trust your abilities, and never let limitations real or perceived hold you back. Confidence, perseverance, and authenticity will open doors and help you create the career and impact you envision.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge with our Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's initiatives is for them to reach the people who would benefit most from them.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value being true to myself while meeting the needs of others in my life.
I value meeting deadlines in my work with others.
I value keeping a balance between work and play.
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