After a little hiatus… “Unleash Your Impact” is back with Episode 4!

One of the greatest things about my coaching business and creating this YouTube series, is getting to reconnect with people I’ve known for YEARS from all parts of the music industry.

I’ve known Hillary for nearly 2 decades and while we hadn’t caught up in a while - I knew I had to have her on the show. Hillary has been doing amazing work with WhyHunger since 2009 and has created so many great examples of how artists can have a bigger impact in the world.

In this episode, we talk about the great work of WhyHunger and their grassroots approach to find solutions to hunger that transform and last and how artists play a pivotal role in that movement. 

We also get really honest about some of the harder parts of the music industry. We talk about the abuse so many experience, especially as women, and how that’s changing but there’s still so much work to be done.

Check out the full episode for more on:

• the harder realities of the music industry and how we can evolve into a healthier industry

• the amazing work of WhyHunger and their grassroots philosophy

• How artists can make a true impact by partnering with organizations like WhyHunger

• the importance of ownership and agency over your own life

• how doing the inner is so important for resilience in this industry 

Every year as Passover approaches, I think more and more about the concept of freedom and liberation.

So I wanted to share some thoughts I’ve been pondering on lessons we can ALL, Jewish or not, learn from this Jewish story.

The story of Passover is really the national origin story of the Jewish people. While we were a tribal people unified by a common faith, it was our redemption from slavery in Egypt, the acceptance of the Torah 50 days later, and those 40 years in the desert that ultimately brought us to be a sovereign nation in our land.

And to this day, some 3000 years later, while the face of Jewish identity has changed and taken on many forms, we still come together with our families and communities every year on Passover to re-tell our national story.

Contrary to what many think, Judaism is not just a faith and does not conform to our modern understanding of religion, nationality, or race. The best modern term we have is that we are an ethnoreligion- but even that doesn’t paint the whole picture. We are a people that have been oppressed and dispersed throughout our history - and yet our origin story and our faith unites us as one people. (Yes, sometimes divided in ideology, politics and expressions of faith and identity - but still one people encompassing many races and sub-ethnicities).

While we’ve survived despite all odds, there have been so many tragedies and difficulties along the way. 

And today, we face rising hatred in the US and around the world. Our homeland is at a critical point fighting for her identity and future against the threat of, not only external forces, but an internal force that is driven by power rather than the values of democracy.

So how is it that as a people, we have been able to not just survive, but thrive? We are less than 1% of the world population, less than 2.5% of the population in the US- and yet we’ve made such a huge impact in industries and movements across the world - music, entertainment, science, law, civil rights and so much more.

Antisemites will claim there’s a conspiracy and a secret cabal that explains this. 
But we know that’s just hatred, not truth.

There are so many reasons and ways to understand this. But I think one of those lies in the story of Passover.

We were enslaved in Egypt for 400 years. When God sent Moses to take us out, we couldn’t go directly to Israel to be a sovereign nation. We needed those 40 years in the desert to work on our mindset - to truly become liberated and understand the work and responsibility that is required for true liberation. 

The journey to Israel from Egypt is really not that far. I’ve personally stood on the border in Israel and looked out and saw Egypt in the distance. This was not a journey of distance and space- it was a journey of an internal mindset and spiritual transformation.

We needed almost an entire generation to transform ourselves from the mindset of an enslaved people to the mindset of a free people.

And it was not an easy journey. It required hard work, a lot of mistakes, and a lot of faith.

So while we may be a free people, who have finally, despite all odds, come back to decolonize our homeland and become a sovereign people once again, we can never take that for granted. And we don’t.

We have constant modern reminders, and the struggle for liberation lives in our DNA. We have an innate understanding of the work it takes to truly become free and that it’s not a one time job.

And that’s why I believe so many of us understand how important it is to fight not only for our own liberation, but for the liberation of ALL people.

But it always has to start in our minds first.

When we’re doing the work to find liberation in our own minds- then, and only then, can liberation from systems of inequality, and all forms of oppression follow.

So whether you are Jewish or not, celebrating Passover or not, my hope is that you can tap into the energy of this time in the year and commit to the ongoing work of internal liberation and freedom.

That’s how we set everyone free to live their most authentic, and full lives.

Happy Passover!
Chag Sameach!

P.S. True, lasting impact in the world begins with your own internal liberation. Music can change the world- but it has to start with the people making it, selling it and working with it to work on freeing themselves first from their own limitations. 

If you want some more personalized help and guidance to find true liberation- so that you can have the greatest impact you’re meant to have in this world- let’s chat! Send me an email or click here to find out more about my 1:1 coaching for artists and music industry professionals.

Episode 3 of "Unleash Your Impact" is out now!

Angela Duckworth defines grit as the combination of passion and perseverance.

I was recently reminded while listening to my friend, Cathy Heller’s, podcast about Duckworth’s work which shows that what really creates grit is optimism. 

Talent will only get you so far- you have to have the grit and resilience to keep going when things get really tough- and that’s where optimism is essential.

Nick Howard, is the embodiment of grit and optimism. You can hear it in his music and you feel it in every conversation with him.

Nick is a British/American singer-songwriter who has played shows around the world, toured with the likes of Train, Gavin DeGraw, Lifehouse, and many many more. He’s released 6 albums and seen his music top the charts in multiple continents. He even learned German in just two months to go on and win The Voice of Germany in 2012.

And as the ultimate go-getter that he is, he, along with his wife, also founded Bookable, a platform that allows fans and brands to discover and book artists for boutique concerts and private events.

I had the pleasure of reconnecting with my friend, and former client, just following the release of his latest single, Rollercoaster.

Check out the latest episode to hear more about:

* the importance of having varied interests and skills - and how it can contribute to your ultimate passion and purpose

* how important it is to be open minded to possibility and have the willingness to see where new doors may lead

* cultivating and maintaining an optimistic outlook

* the power and impact of live music - both as an artist and a fan

More from Nick Howard:

Web: https://www.nickhowardmusic.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickhowardmusic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nickhowardmusic 

New Single, Rollercoaster: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv-eP4X5AwA 

And check out his music on Spotify, Apple Music and anywhere else you listen to music!

Episode number 2 of the “Unleash Your Impact” series is here!

Check it out on YouTube:

The Healing Power of Music with Michael Solomon

Michael Solomon is one of the first people I met in my music industry journey nearly 20 years ago! He is an established entrepreneur who truly embodies the value of giving back.

He has founded a number of organizations - for profit and non-profit alike - that all have a mission to make a difference through both music and technology.

In this episode I share a very personal story of being diagnosed with a sarcoma at the age of 26 (I was fine, in the end and even had my diagnosis downgraded!) and how that inspired me to do more with my music career and really prioritize making an impact. Michael played a pivotal role in helping me do that and gave me the opportunity to work for one of the amazing organizations he co-founded, Musicians On Call.

From working with artists such as John Mayer, Vanessa Carlton and so many more, to managing the top technologists who are changing our world on a daily basis, Michael always prioritized the personal development work and growth- because he knows that directly contributes to the impact he’s able to make.

Tune in to the full episode on YouTube to hear more about:

• How important it is to build partnerships based on aligned values

• Being willing to iterate, experiment, and grow

• The “right” giving mindset

• The importance of the blueberry lesson (it’s a good one!)

• The healing power of music

And if you’re inspired by Michael’s example and understand the important role of coaching and personal development in your own career - let’s get on a call and see if we’re a good fit to work together! Just hit the link on the contact page to schedule!

Learn more about Michael’s organizations and companies:

Kristen Ann Carr Fund (KACF) - Providing grants for sarcoma research and seeking to improve the lives of cancer patients. 

Musicians On Call - brings live music to the bedsides of hospital patients with programs in 18 cities and counting. 

We Are All Music Foundation - provides grants to the best in class non-profits using music in health & wellness, education, and underserved communities.  

Brickwall Management - An artist management company facing on values-aligned clients  

10x Management - a white-glove agency representing the world’s best freelance developers, teams, data scientists, blockchain experts, designers, app specialists & more. 

I am so excited to share this conversation - the first in the “Unleash Your Impact” series - with my coach and money mindset mentor, Serena Hicks. 

“How Music & Money Change the World”

Serena went from broke at 40 with a bankruptcy on her record, to creating a nearly $2 million business in just a couple of years. 

Tune in to find out why this conversation is so crucial and foundational when talking about music, the industry, and impact.

We talk about:

• How money is like creativity - an unlimited, benevolent energy.

• How inner transformation is a critical tool for impact and in itself is an act of a (love lead) revolution

• How artists and the industry around them have a critical role in shaping the cultures around us

• How money mindset work creates powerful transformation across our lives and careers and is so important in the music industry

• Why carrying stories of failure and unworthiness will sabotage you in every part of your life and career

• How a good coach doesn’t just tell you what to do- but helps you TRANSFORM your entire mindset and approach to your goals

• Why it's so important to be UNATTACHED to the what and the how and stay connected to your WHY

• Why GETTING PAID for your art changes the world

• And more….

I am so excited to introduce you to my new series on YouTube called “Unleash Your Impact: Conversations on the Music Industry, Transformation and Impact.”

Why’d I create this?

Because we are all here to make some sort of impact.

I didn’t start out as a coach.

I spent 17 years inside the music industry as an artist manager and doing marketing for artists.

And through all of the ups and downs, stresses and anxieties, working so closely with artists at every level and with the people shaping the industry - I learned A LOT.

And there are a few things I know to be true:

1. Music has the power to heal and to change the world.
2. That to change the world - we have to start with changing ourselves form the inside- and from there we can change systems, industries and the people around us.
3. Since artists and the industry around them shape our world - it IS crucial that we do this transformational work on ourselves.

That is why I became a coach and why I’ve created this series to bring you conversations with the people doing the work and making that impact.

If this inspires you and you want to take this work deeper for yourself - I invite you to book a free call with me… and let’s get started on changing the world together… by first creating YOUR best life and having your greatest impact.

“It’s not like we’re saving lives”

I’ve heard this so many times from artists and people in the music biz in an attempt to diminish their work.

Music absolutely save lives.

Here’s just a couple ways:

⚡️as I learned during my time working with Musicians On Call (amazing nonprofit that brings live music to the bedsides of patients) - you can literally see the changes in a person’s heart rate, blood pressure and other vitals as they listen to music 

⚡️we have an epidemic of loneliness and depression in teens and adults young to old. You know where many of them find solace and healing? In music. (Ask me how I know 😉). Even more than that, so many form communities around their favorite artists and connect with people from all over the world… realizing they’re not alone and creating circles of support for themselves. 

⚡️music is one of the best tools for calming the nervous system. It resonates in the vagus nerve and trigger a paraysmpathetic nervous system response that soothes the body (musichealth.ai). We know that stress and a constantly activated nervous system can wreak havoc on your physical health… and the right music at the right time can be just the medicine one needs.

So whether you make it, buy it, sell it, perform it, market it, or work with music in any way… do not diminish the importance of what you do.

The world needs more music and we need more you.

So if you’re ready to really step into that belief and take yourself to the next level YOU- send me a message and let’s chat about working together.

I’m a rock and roll chick… ready to take on the world and burn sh*t down.
I’m also an indie folk chick… wanting to stay in my little cocoon and do some deep inner reflection.
I’m a bit pop… I just want to dance it out and have fun.

I’m a woman full of paradoxes and seeming contradictions.

I’m progressive and want to see positive change in our world and our systems… and I’m also a traditionalist who loves preserving parts of our world and heritage.

I’m deeply spiritual and put a lot of value on faith and the unknowable… and I also believe in science and often look for evidence and hard facts.

I’m a high achiever with big ideas and big goals that energize me… and sometimes I’m “lazy” and just feel like watching Netflix for days at a time.

I’m an introvert who needs a lot of alone time and space… and I love spending time with friends or being in a crowd at a big concert or event.

None of us are all just one thing.

We are complex creatures and all have parts of ourselves that seem like they contradict and shouldn’t be able to coexist.

But they can. And they do.

Your strength comes when you can learn to love and embrace ALL parts of you. Even the parts that you may judge as “negative.”

They’re all part of the complex fabric that makes you YOU. That makes you uniquely able to have the impact you are here to have.

I’m here to help you stop judging yourself for the very things that are there to teach you and guide you so you can have your greatest impact.

I’m here to help you recognize and embrace all of it.

Because all parts of you are important and are there FOR you.

If you’re ready to live into that next level you… let’s get on a call and talk about how we can work together through my 1:1 coaching program.

The world needs you… ALL of you.

Have you DECIDED to have an extraordinary life?!

No, really… have you?

If you’re not looking at your life and saying “wow, this is extraordinary. I AM extraordinary”… than it’s only because you haven’t decided to.

That’s all it takes… a decision.

It’s so simple.

Not easy… but simple.

When you make that decision…. everything you want to change will change.

So what does extraordinary look like for you?

Are you on stage in front of thousands of people?
Do you have a platform where people really listen and you’re able to influence real societal change?
Are you making music/art/writing every day?
Are you amplifying the voices of artists and activists?

How much money do you have?
How much love do you have in your life?
How much of an impact are you having?

ARE YOU READY TO DECIDE TO MAKE IT A REALITY?

Are you ready to commit??

It’s not easy…. it’s not supposed to be. But if it’s in your heart… it’s meant for you. And it is so fucking possible.

Maybe your first step is getting the right support in your corner.

So shoot me an email and let’s chat about making that happen.

Forgiveness is possible even in the most impossible of situations.

Read that again.

As we approach Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, we ask for forgiveness - from others, and from G-d.

But we often forget the most important person to ask for forgiveness from… ourselves.

Before we can ever forgive anyone else, we must learn how to forgive ourselves.

Forgiveness is not something that is “earned” or “deserved.” We give it because it is a choice we make to no longer carry the heavy burden of resentment, judgement, and shame.

We give it so that we can live in love instead of “what could have been.”

We give it to ourselves so that we can live fully and freely - allowing ourselves to make mistakes and screw up from time to time - because when we know forgiveness is always available, we don’t keep ourselves from taking worthwhile risks out of fear of messing up.

So what have you been holding on to and not forgiving yourself for?

🙏 That time you messed up a live performance?
🙏 That time your album release didn’t go as planned?
🙏 That time you hurt someone you cared about?
🙏 That time you hired the wrong people?

Even in the most “unforgiveable” of circumstances… you can always learn from it and forgive yourself so that you can move on to create the impact you are meant to have.

It is simply a choice.
And one of the most important choices you can make.

And if you find yourself struggling to make that choice, I am here to support you. Just send me a DM and we can set up a free consultation to talk about how forgiving yourself can help you create the life and career you’re dreaming of.

Whether you observe Yom Kippur or not, let this be your reminder to choose forgiveness and love.

And to all observing - G’mar Chatima Tova and have an easy and meaningful fast!

I'm here in NYC where I just wrapped 3 days of a mind-blowing business mastermind with an amazing group of women- all coaches on a mission to change the world through our work.

Though I’ve traveled back to NY many times since I moved (over 11 years ago!) this time I’ve been flooded with thoughts and memories, reflecting on my nearly two decade career from where it all started.

I’ve had so many experiences that I am incredibly grateful for. So many amazing albums and tours that I got to work on, incredible artists that I’ve worked with, and have met people along the way that have become some of my closest friends.

But it wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies.

There were also more experiences that I care to list that took a major toll on my confidence and my mental wellbeing.

Whether you’re an artist or a professional in this industry, it’s hard to imagine getting through that many years without something that leads to self doubt.

And if you’re a woman, person of color, religious minority, or from any other marginalized group, chances are pretty high that you’ve had those experiences again and again.

It can manifest in so many different ways.

Being afraid to speak up in meetings.

Not advocating properly for yourself.

Being underpaid.

Finding yourself in conflict with people you work with or for.

A general sense of insecurity and feeling unfulfilled.

I’ve been there. I’ve seen it all.

And I know now that if I had the tools then that I have now, I would have had some very different experiences and outcomes.

Don’t get me wrong… I have no regrets. And I accomplished some amazing things.

But how much more could I have done with the tools to build self-confidence, self-love, and show up fully and authentically even in the most challenging situations?!

How much bigger could my impact have been at those times?

The healthier and individual, the healthier the team, the industry… and yes, the world!

That’s why I do what I do.

That’s why, I’m here to help teach you those tools and coach you through implementing them in your own life and career.

So if you want more fulfillment, more confidence, more impact, and even more money… it’s time we chat!

This handsome fella kept me company all of last week while his mom & dad (my bro and sis-in-law) were away.

I’m a huge dog person… but I don’t actually have a fur-baby of my own (yet!).

And while the company and snuggles were  nice, having this guy in my small one bedroom apartment for a week has also had its challenges. And being I am who I am…. I can’t help but see the lessons and analogies to life and biz.

So here are some of the top things I’ve learned and observed through Dexter The Dog.

1. What goes in must come out
   This guy is a poop machine. (I swear, I’ve had to use 3 bags in one outing!) That’s how he stays healthy and full of energy. He’s 9 years old with the energy of a puppy, and I can’t help but think his digestive system is at least partly to thank. 
   
   We all need to consume - we need to feed our minds and our souls with all sorts of nourishing things as well as not so nourishing things (hello, treats!) - but if we’re not putting out as much as we’re taking in… well, we get constipated and lethargic. So pay attention to your output as much as your input.
    

2. Love is everything
   All he wants is love. ALL THE TIME. If he’s not at my feet, he’s on top of me asking for love and affection. But really, that’s all he needs. I was nervous he’d need so much attention and stimulation and would distract me from my work during the day - but as long as he knows I’m here and het gets a few pets and snuggles, he is a happy dog. That’s really all we ever need. Just to know we are loved, supported and safe. And those are always feelings we can give to ourselves first and foremost.
    

3. Love can be messy
   I’m used to shedding (I have long dark hair that seems to end up everywhere)- but dog shedding is a whole other story. Not to mention the dirt from the dog park and our walks. At first, I was wiping his paws every time we came back inside, but I gave up on that after a couple of days. Let’s just say, my apartment needed a deep clean and 4 loads of laundry when he went home.
   
   And that’s the thing… all the love and all the snuggles, aka, the good parts of life, never come without the messy parts. Life is 50/50 and if we want to enjoy the ups, we have to embrace the downs as well.
    

4. Limited short term memory can be a good thing
   Dexter gets angry and agitated from time to time. Usually when the Amazon delivery guy knocks at my door. But a minute later, he’s forgotten about it and is back to playing with a toy or snoozing on the couch. 
   
   We humans have a hard time letting go. We spend so much time and energy thinking about the things that agitate us that it takes our focus away from all of the things we could be doing or thinking about to make our lives and the world better.

 So embrace the mess, feel the love, let things go... and go create what you're meant to create!

Happy 5th of July!

That’s right… the day after Independence Day.

While many celebrated independence yesterday, many mourned what feels like a continued loss of independence. And many more, like me, just felt the complexity and contradictions of the day.

On the one hand, I am so grateful for the immense privilege and freedoms I do have by living in this country and am acutely aware of how lucky we are compared to a HUGE percentage of the world’s population. I’m also so grateful and in awe of the sacrifices my great-grandparents and grandparents made to come to this country- fleeing pogroms, violence and poverty -  to give that privilege and opportunity to the future generations of their family.

I think being able to say “I’m not going to celebrate America’s independence” is in itself a huge privilege and often comes from people whose families didn’t have to sacrifice and risk their lives for a chance at freedom.

On the other hand…. F*CK everything happening in this country right now! On Independence Day itself I sat with some of my closest friends from Highland Park as we watched the news of another mass shooting in their seemingly safe hometown. I sat with women grieving over the possible loss of our bodily autonomy, and with LGBTQ friends whose own freedoms are being threatened.

Every day it feels like our sense of freedom, independence and personal safety are being threatened or taken away.

And I am just sitting with these contradictions and this complexity.

And I am reminding myself, with love, that freedom always begins as an inside job.

So instead of Happy 4th this year, I’m saying Happy 5th…. because after the celebration, we must continue the work towards true freedom, true independence, and true safety.

And yes- it starts from within.

So what are YOU doing to create freedom inside of yourself first, so that you can help change the world?

I’m a music industry impact coach helping mission-driven people in the music industry do just that. If that’s you and you’d like to explore what it would be like to work together - send me a note and let’s chat!

Credit: Brittney Jean Photography

Ok people, I’m back.

And I’m fired up. 

I’ve been hiding and holding back and I’m done with that.

The news on Friday shook me, like it shook every woman I know… whether they know it and felt it or not. 

I’ve been angry, I’ve been sad, and if I’m honest, I’ve been mostly numb.

But that changes now. No more feeling numb.

I’m inspired by the amazing, beautiful and powerful women I have the privilege of being in community with (shout out to Serena and my BHM 3.0 sisters).

I’m inspired by my friends, the strong women and girls in my family, and the legacy of my recently passed grandmother.

I’m inspired by all the women musicians (and some men) who have shouted from their stages over the last few days and used their platforms to give a big F-you to the Supreme Court and the patriarchy.

And all of that reminds me of who I am and why I do what I do.

So for anyone new here… or anyone I haven’t had the privilege of meeting… allow me to re-introduce myself.

I am a feminist music industry impact coach. That doesn’t mean I only coach women. It means I coach from a perspective of justice, equality, and breaking down internalized systems of oppression. 

Because we have to start from the inside in order to make any real external change.

I help mission-driven people in the music industry show up fully and authentically as themselves so they can have the lasting impact they are meant to have- in their careers, their lives and in the world.

I am a proud Jew. And as a proud Jew, I have a deep understanding of oppression, colonization and what it’s like to live with the ambient anxiety of antisemitism and hate. 

As a proud Jew, I also have a deep understanding of being connected with your identity, your heritage, your history and your spirituality and finding strength and resilience in all of it.

I am a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend who loves hard and fiercely and wants everyone in my life to thrive and be liberated in their own minds first, and then in the world.

I believe that the arts, and music in particular, have the power to create incredible change in the world.

That’s why I spent 17 years of my career in the music business, helping to nurture talent and bring their own unique magic into the world.

And that’s why now, I have found the perfect alignment between music, industry, personal development, and social impact.

We’ve got work to do. And it’s an inside job.

I’m here to help.

If you’re as fired up as I am and ready to take on the inside work so that you can have your greatest impact - get in touch to set up a free call to see if 1:1 coaching with me is right for you.

This is not the post I wanted to write today.

But she was 101 and this is life.

But a part of us all thought she’d live forever… because she was bigger than life. 

She was the matriarch of our big extended family. She was Gramma to me, my brothers, cousins, nieces and nephews, and she was Aunt Helen to 100+ extended cousins who all loved her and loved to receive those crisp Chanukah gelt dollars from her every year. One extra dollar for each generation. We were up to 5 for the youngest ones of the clan (I got 3).

She was a strong, tough, yet loving woman. Toughest on those she loved the most. It wasn’t always the easiest as a kid to hear her criticism or demands, but the older I got the more I understood.

She didn’t have an easy childhood and she just wanted the best for her own family.

She softened quite a bit in these last years. Always saying I love you (though not always in those words) and accepting everyone for who they are, not just who she’d hoped they’d be. All she wanted was for us to be happy, and to be connected and love each other… as she’d tell us each year when she distributed that Chanukah gelt.

The last few times I visited her, she took my hand in hers and said “I’d really like to see my ring on your finger.” That was the extent of the pressure I got from her- never asking or pushing directly. But it still hit hard… because I would’ve loved nothing more.

I said to my sister-in-law this morning that it breaks my heart that she’ll never get to see that now. But then she lovingly reminded me that she will. And she will send us signs and little hugs that she’s there with us.

She already did this morning.

It’s hard to imagine going through all of the next milestones in my life without her physically there. But she’ll always be in my heart.

Over the last few years, we all started to notice how whenever we said goodbye to her she would say it as if it might be the last time. But we never believed it would.

She’d end our calls with these words:

“Take care of yourself, Civia. Be happy.”

So that’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to commit to living a big, full life just like she did and just like she wanted for me.

I love you Gramma. Give Grampa a giant hug for me. 

Credit: Brittney Jean Photography

I don’t know about you… but I’m feeling ALL the feels lately.

This week is all about highs and lows.

Highs:

Gratitude

Connection

Love

Purpose

Lows:

Outrage

Despair

Stress

Sadness

Not surprising that this week on the Jewish calendar is also about highs and lows. Today was Yom HaZikaron, the day of remembrance for Israel’s fallen soldiers and terror victims - all 28,284 of them. It serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom and self-determination. Tomorrow we go right into Yom Ha’Atzmaut, the celebration of Israel’s independence and our return to self-determination in our indigenous homeland… with all of its complexities and challenges.

At the same time, this week’s news about Roe V. Wade has left so many of us feeling all of the lows. From sadness, hopelessness and despair to anger and utter outrage. It’s also been a reminder that our freedoms and our self-determination can never be taken for granted.

We always have to remember the sacrifices that come with freedom and just how fragile that freedom can be. We must be grateful for all of the people that fought for it, and continue to use our voices, our talents and our resources to keep fighting for it.

I’ve just been a ball of contrasting emotions. Gratitude for the rights that I’ve had for so long and probably taken for granted at times. And outrage at the idea of them being taken away. 

Purpose in my work as a music industry impact coach and seeing how important the inner work is to break down these systems of oppression. And despair when I think about how far we have to go.

All of these emotions have a place. All of these feelings are valid.

We must make room for ALL of them.

If we focus just on the anger - it may lead to some action, but will eventually end in burnout and not create the biggest impact. If we focus just on the gratitude, we may feel better for a bit but it won’t lead to lasting change.

Real impact comes when we understand the role that each emotion plays and allow them all to help propel us forward. We can’t take positive action if we don’t allow the negative emotions to exist.

What are your highs and lows this week? Are you making space for all of them?

Credit: Brittney Jean Photography

Tonight begins Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Every year, when this day comes on the Jewish calendar, my Instagram feed fills with remembrance posts and Holocaust stories. With declarations of never again and never forget. And every year, I take a moment to remember. To think of all that was the lost - the lives, the love, the laughter, and the potential for all that might have been had 6 million of my people not been slaughtered.

Today, I’m also thinking about who I’m being and what I’m doing to honor those 6 million.

And I’m realizing that I haven’t been.

I’ve been hiding. For the last couple of months now, if I’m being honest with myself, I’ve been hiding in so many areas of my life. I haven’t been really showing up - on social media, in my business, in my relationships. 

I have all of the reasons and excuses that make so much sense. But at the end of the day, they’re just ways my brain is justifying to keep me safe in my cave.

We all do this sometimes. And it’s ok. Sometimes “hiding” is just part of the journey.

But today I’m thinking about how so many of my people were forced to hide. Physically and spiritually- generations and generations of Jews  were forced to hide to save their lives, or forced to hide who they are, where they come from or what they believe.  

They hid so that I could live. 

So that I could live openly and freely - proud of who I am, where I come from, what I believe - so that I can help change the world for the better.

So today, I’m honoring those 6 million and the generations of all of my ancestors before them - by choosing not to hide.

I’m choosing to continue to challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone and to share what I know, what I’ve learned, what I’m learning, and who I am - because I know that’s how I have the impact I’m meant to have. 

And I owe that to all those who couldn’t.

Credit: Brittney Jean Photography

Every year, as Passover approaches, I think about the idea of FREEDOM.

And each year it takes on new and deeper meaning.

The story of Passover is is the central story of the Jewish people- the story of our liberation. We are taught from a young age that “in every generation, a person should feel as though they themselves were liberated from being slaves in Egypt.”

We purge the chametz (leavened bread products) from our diets, our homes and our lives. Chametz is a metaphor for the unhealthy ego, and for anything toxic in our lives. It’s a time for reflection and to take stock of what people, thoughts, mindsets and situations in our lives are serving us, and which are holding us back.

As always, the purge has to start from within.

“Free your mind, and the rest will follow.”

En Vogue got it.

Though it was thousands of years ago that our ancestors were liberated from slavery in Egypt, the Jewish people have experienced persecution, oppression, enslavement, and marginalization in almost every generation around the world. And so have too many others. 

I’m proud to come from a people that believes so strongly in the values of freedom, liberation, and self-determination for ALL people.

The truth is, liberation is an ongoing process. It’s a continuous effort. It has to happen in every generation, in every community, and in every person.

So start with your own mind.

What do you need to break free from to liberate your mind? To liberate yourself... so that the rest can follow?

Wishing a Chag Sameach and Happy Passover to everyone celebrating… and to ALL, the feeling of true freedom!

This is a post about love and impact… and how it can come in many forms.

One of my greatest sources of love in my life, came in the form of this beautiful fur-friend named Newman.

Newman’s human, Patrick, was a co-worker and dear friend. He brought Newman to work every day at Bill Silva Management. In fact, Newman was the first to greet me on the day I came in for my interview. It was love at first sight.

Newman became a huge part of my life. I’d see him every day, he would stay with me often when Patrick traveled, and we’d meet for coffee dates even after I left the company and didn’t get to see him every day.

He was one of the most special dogs I ever met. As Patrick said so beautifully, “He was particular in choosing human friends, but once you had him he was massively loyal, ecstatic to be with you and able to bring you joy.” 

Particular, indeed. When I was dating someone that wasn’t right for me, Newman knew that before I did. And he made sure to let me know (situating himself in bed right next to me, snubbing said ex, and other not so subtle hints). He was protective and loving beyond measure.

When talking to him, he’d look at you with almost human eyes, tilting his head just right so you knew he understood everything. We had many a productive and creative meeting together (Newman had a lot of great marketing ideas for Jason Mraz!).

When I learned on Friday that Newman had passed suddenly, my heart broke. Since they moved to Nashville, I hadn’t seen him in a few years, but I always believed I’d see him again. When Patrick texted that he included my name as he whispered the names of people he loved during his last moments, and his ears perked up - my heart almost burst.

Here’s what I know. Newman had a huge impact on my life. He wasn’t even my dog but he made all of the people in his life feel like he was theirs. He taught me so much about unconditional love, friendship, and just spreading joy wherever he can. 

Here’s what else I know… if a dog who wasn’t even mine, can have that big of an impact on me and so many lives - then we humans, with our words, our talents, and our unique abilities can quite literally impact the entire world.

So don’t hold the amazing things that make you YOU back. The world needs them.

This week, we celebrated the Jewish holiday of Purim.

I don’t think it’s an accident that Purim most often falls during Women’s History Month.  Purim is the celebration of, perhaps, the most well-known heroine story in Jewish history. 
(If you’re unfamiliar, you can read the story of Esther here.)

When I was a kid, I would dress up as Queen Esther every year for Purim. My brothers might say I just loved pretending to be a queen, but I like to think there was a part of me, even at that young age, that was connected to the essence of who Queen Esther was and what she did for her (my) people.

From my own experience, and working so closely with artists and music industry professionals, I have a pretty good picture of the stresses and struggles of the industry and the things that hold people back from showing up fully. Especially women!!

The self-doubt, comparison, and limiting beliefs about what it takes and what’s important can be paralyzing.

So in honor of Purim, and after reading some interesting facts about Queen Esther (thanks Chabad.org), I wanted to share some of the lessons I think we can all learn from her - in whatever industry you’re in, and whatever gender you are!

1. She was a double orphan… aka, she experienced a lot of trauma.
   
   No matter what age it happens, losing both of your parents is traumatic. We all experience trauma in our lives - some with a big T, some with a little t - and we also carry trauma in our bodies from previous generations. This can affect how we show up on a daily basis.
   
   Many in the music industry (again, especially women) have experienced some kind of trauma in the industry itself - so, of course, it’s going to play a role in how they think and approach different projects. The key is how much we let our trauma be in the driver’s seat. Esther didn’t allow the trauma she experienced to keep her from doing the scary thing she knew she needed to do.
   
   And the impact of that? The Jewish people continue to exist and thrive, and contribute to the betterment of the world.
   

2. She was over 40 when she married the king and saved the Jewish people!
   
   This was one I didn’t know before and it made me do a little dance!
   
   While we often think of Esther as a young 20-something, tradition actually teaches that she was between the ages of 40 and 80(!) at the time of the Purim story! Not only that, but she was considered to be among the most beautiful women in the world. Beauty is not dependent on age, and neither is what you’re capable of accomplishing.
   
   Society gives us message after message that we lose our appeal as we age. But what if your beauty, wisdom, courage and the impact you can have only grow? I hear from so many artists (yep… especially women- but men too) that they’re too old to “make it” or that their best days are behind them. But age does not have to stop you. Your biggest, most impactful chapter could still be ahead of you.. no matter how old you are.
   
   YOU ARE NOT TOO OLD AND IT IS NOT TOO LATE!!
   

3. Her name means “hidden”
   
   Her Hebrew name was actually Hadassah but she was given the Persian name of Esther (morning star) because she was considered as beautiful as the stars in the sky. But the Hebrew root of Esther actually means “hidden.”
   
   We are taught that Purim is a tale of many hidden miracles and that G-d’s name is not mentioned in the Megillah because His intervention was hidden (this is also why we dress up in costumes!). When we learn about the story and the many commentaries along with it, we can peel back the layers to see the Divine intervention and how Esther was an instrument for the Divine all along.
   
   It’s so easy to get caught up in the daily grind and see hardships and struggles just on the surface. But if we really look for it- we will see miracles all around us. We will see how we are each Divine tools here for a purpose, to make an impact on the world with our unique talents. It’s not meant to be obvious and in your face… looking for the miracles is part of the work that makes us stronger and more powerful.
   

4. She saved an entire people from annihilation
   
   Queen Esther didn’t set out to be a savior or heroine, or even a queen! “Save the Jewish people from annihilation” probably wasn’t on the top of her life goals list. But when the time came, she stepped up. She faced her fears. She did the scary thing she didn’t think she could do and went to the king, risking her own life, to beg and plead for her people. She also gave up the life and future she dreamed for herself (married and having a family with Mordechai) to stay beholden to the king- but she understood that she had a higher purpose.
   
   We don’t all have to sacrifice our future or risk our lives - but we all have the ability to make that choice if called upon to do so. And every day, we have the ability to look what scares us in the face, and do the thing we think we can’t in order to make a positive impact in the world. We all have a Queen Esther inside of us.
   

P.S. if you could use some personalized to support to help you call upon your inner Queen Esther (we all have one!) to do the thing that needs to be done so that you can have the impact you’re meant for…. let’s chat!

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