Backstage Chats with Women In Music, hosted by Thea Wood, features interviews with trailblazers and rising stars in the music industry. Whether on stage, behind the scenes, or on air, BCWIM introduces you to the women who are making waves in the music industry. Each episode is entertaining, inspiring, and relatable. Join our band of dreamers, rule breakers, and rock stars today! Produced by Herizon Music Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit based in Austin, TX. Learn more at https://backstagechats.com.

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This podcast is a production of Herizon Music Foundation, a nonprofit uplifting women in music through education, experience, and role-coding programs. It’s made possible thanks to fans like yourself.  <a href="https://herizonmusic.org/make-a-donation/" target="_blank">Please donate today</a>!In this episode, BlueSkye covers:— The origin of her unique name.— Her not-so-lucky Lucky Penny— The story of her song "America’s Middle Class"— What it's like to audition for the NBC television show The Voice.Visit https://herizonmusic.org/blueskye for full Show Notes, videos, social links, and videos!Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Guest: Blue Skye, Host: Thea Wood, Production: Chloe Brown & Yuxuan Shi, Theme song: Pond 5

Michigan’s teen sensation BlueSkye is ushering in a refreshing era for homegrown music, with over 20 cross-genre songs penned by age 14. BlueSkye was the 2022 Nicole B. Tate / Miriam Makeba Rising Star Award recipient from Herizon Music Foundation with her original music video “America’s Middle Class” winning over the judges.

This podcast is a production of Herizon Music Foundation, a nonprofit uplifting women in music through education, experience, and role-coding programs. It’s made possible thanks to fans like yourself.  <a href="https://herizonmusic.org/make-a-donation/" target="_blank">Please donate today</a>!In this episode, Katie covers:— What does the TV show producer do behind the scenes?— The most memorable thing a celebrity showed her on AXS TV series “Rock & Tell."— How she snagged a job from another host.— A valuable lesson her billionaire boss Mark Cuban taught her (and why you may not want to be his landlord). Visit https://herizonmusic.org/katie-daryl for full Show Notes, videos, social links, and videos!Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Guest: Katie Daryl, Host: Thea Wood, Production/voiceover: Chloe Brown & Yuxuan Shi, Theme song: Pond 5, Photo Credit: Stewart Volland of AXS TV

Katie Daryl is AXS TV's modern-day VJ -- hosting and producing shows like Top 10 Revealed, Rock & Tell, and The World's Greatest Tribute bands (for which she won the CableFAX Program Award for "Best Host - Music" in 2017. Katie's youthful passion led her up the broadcasting ladder and into a chance opportunity to work for Mark Cuban. Katie reveals her own highlights in this episode!

Katie Daryl: AXS TV's Music Host Revealed

This is Part II of Thea Wood’s chat with Donna Jean Godchaux McKay. In this episode, the Alabama native leaves a promising musical career in Muscle Shoals for uncharted waters in California. She got more than she bargained for! This podcast is a production of Herizon Music Foundation, a nonprofit uplifting women in music through education, experience, and role-coding programs. It’s made possible thanks to fans like yourself.  <a href="https://us-west-2.protection.sophos.com/?d=herizonmusic.org&u=aHR0cHM6Ly9oZXJpem9ubXVzaWMub3JnL21ha2UtYS1kb25hdGlvbg==&i=NjBjNDlhY2Q2OTI2ZGUwZjk4YjYwYjY1&t=U0dEbDhMZ2x4R2tlK0M1Z1gwWlhZWjl0SUhqVWhNVFJyZkVaQlBFcHFUTT0=&h=ddb8f424a45c470b8a8cc803e1f0482c" target="_blank">Please donate today</a>! In this episode, Donna Jean Godchaux Mackay covers:— Why she left a lucrative music career in Muscle Shoals— Her life-changing decision to join the Grateful Dead — Forming female friendships while on the road— Regrouping after tragedy strikes — Why she re-recorded “Shelter” and its importance in today’s world Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Guest: Donna Jean Godchaux McKay, Host: Thea Wood, Production/voiceover: Chloe Brown, Photo (feature):, Song credits for “Shelter”: Donna Jean Godchaux McKay, Theme song: Pond 5

In the second half of host Thea’s interview with Donna Jean Godchaux MacKay, the singer speaks on her career after leaving Muscle Shoals. In San Francisco Godchaux would find the building blocks of both her music and her family, and as her career evolved so did her life. Hear everything about the lifestyle of an iconic touring musician, from breaking into the scene, to the Once-In-A-Lifetime shows, to making the decision to settle down. 

In this chat, Donna Jean Godchaux Mackay covers:<ul><li>Meeting and working with a young Cher in the studio</li><li>The homemade “instrument" her mother came up with so she could make music as a child</li><li>How Muscle Shoals became a safe haven for musicians amidst societal turmoil</li><li>How Elvis treated her in the studio and his last words to her before his death</li><li>What surprising outfit teen Donna Jean wore to the recording studio --  they still talk about today!</li><li>Cultivating lifelong friendships through music</li></ul>Credits:Song "Shelter" courtesy of Donna Jean & The Tricksters<a href="https://herizonmusic.org/make-a-donation/" target="_blank">Donate to our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation</a> TODAY and help us uplift the next generation of women in music!Full show notes along with links to guest sites, social, and more are at <a href="https://backstagechats.com">BackstageChats.com</a>.Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Guest: Donna Jean-Godchaux MacKay, Engineering/Production: Chloe L. Brown, Song "Shelter" courtesy of Donna Jean & The Tricksters, Photo (feature): Susana Millman

In this episode of Backstage Chats with Women in Music, host Thea Wood has a heart to heart with vocal legend and songwriter Donna Jean Godchaux MacKay. With six decades of experience, Donna Jean is mostly known for her singing career with The Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia Band. But as you’ll find out in this chat, there’s so much more to the girl from Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The first half of this two-part series covers the beginning of her journey as a teen artist at the renowned Muscle Shoals Sound Studio -- working with superstars like Cher and Elvis. 

When you hear our next guest’s last name, you most likely think of her larger-than-life big brother David Lee Roth — lead singer of Van Halen. But did you know that musical prowess ran in the family?  Driven to turn her love of music into a gift that mothers and babies could enjoy together, Lisa Roth conceived an album series called Rockabye Baby, which transforms pop and rock hits into instrumental lullabies. Acts like Metallica, Lady Gaga, Fleetwood Mac, Madonna, No Doubt, Snoop Dogg, and (of course) Van Halen have never sounded so sweet.  With over 100 albums released and billions of streams under her belt, she’s proven to be an exceptional entrepreneur, record label executive and creative director. In this episode, Lisa covers:<ul>
<li>Life as a kid in the Roth household</li>
<li>How the ‘60s and ‘70s school integration and women’s lib movements shaped her journey</li>
<li>Transforming a rock anthem into a soothing lullaby (it ain’t easy!)</li>
<li>Which skillset gives her an advantage as an entrepreneur</li>
</ul> Plus, Lisa’s answers to The Shakedown!See full show notes, links, and videos at <a href="http://backstagechats.com/lisa-roth">backstagechats.com/lisa-roth</a>

When you hear our next guest’s last name, you most likely think of her larger-than-life big brother David Lee Roth — lead singer of Van Halen. But did you know that musical prowess ran in the family?  
Driven to turn her love of music into a gift that mothers and babies could enjoy together, Lisa Roth conceived an album series called Rockabye Baby, which transforms pop and rock hits into instrumental lullabies. Acts like Metallica, Lady Gaga, Fleetwood Mac, Madonna, No Doubt, Snoop Dogg, and (of course) Van Halen have never sounded so sweet.  
With over 100 albums released and billions of streams under her belt, she’s proven to be an exceptional entrepreneur, record label executive and creative director. 
In this episode, Lisa covers:

Life as a kid in the Roth household

How the ‘60s and ‘70s school integration and women’s lib movements shaped her journey

Transforming a rock anthem into a soothing lullaby (it ain’t easy!)

Which skillset gives her an advantage as an entrepreneur


Plus, Lisa’s answers to The Shakedown!
See full show notes, links, and videos at backstagechats.com/lisa-roth

Lisa Roth: The Fairy Godmother of Rockin' Lullabies

Terri Nunn is the lead singer of Berlin, which many remember from the height of MTV music video days as the sexy trio who brought us “The Metro,” “Sex,” and their runaway Top Gun soundtrack anthem “Take My Breath Away.” The track earned them an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. Here we are 40 years and 8 albums later, and the band introduced their newest album titled “Strings Attached” featuring the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra re-visiting the band’s most iconic tunes. In early 2021, host Thea Wood conducted this remote interview with Terri Nunn. In This Episode Terri shares — The change in mindset that set her free to be happier and take more risks — Getting the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra to sex it up a bit (tell us if you think it worked) — Recording a video in an active dungeon with a “big reveal” at the end — Discussing the sexual nature of her art with her kids — The most memorable words her mother shared before passing on from cancer — Her life-long fear of people and fear of “losing it all” Credits Guest: Terri Nunn of Berlin Host: Thea Wood Engineering/Production: Shea Carothers Photo credit: Marc Green Song: “Now It’s My Turn” from album “Strings Attached” featuring the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. Written by John Buckner Crawford This is a Herizon Music Foundation production. 2021 ©. Special thanks to RAS Associates and Gibson Brands for supporting Herizon Music’s education, experience, and role-modeling programs. Contact <a href="mailto:info@herizonmusic.org">info@herizonmusic.org</a> if you’d like to join our cause.

Terri Nunn is the lead singer of Berlin, which many remember from the height of MTV music video days as the sexy trio who brought us “The Metro,” “Sex,” and their runaway Top Gun soundtrack anthem “Take My Breath Away.” The track earned them an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. 
Here we are 40 years and 8 albums later, and the band introduced their newest album titled “Strings Attached” featuring the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra re-visiting the band’s most iconic tunes. In early 2021, host Thea Wood conducted this remote interview with Terri Nunn. 
In This Episode

Terri shares

— The change in mindset that set her free to be happier and take more risks

— Getting the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra to sex it up a bit (tell us if you think it worked)

— Recording a video in an active dungeon with a “big reveal” at the end

— Discussing the sexual nature of her art with her kids

— The most memorable words her mother shared before passing on from cancer

— Her life-long fear of people and fear of “losing it all”

Credits

Guest: Terri Nunn of Berlin

Host: Thea Wood

Engineering/Production: Shea Carothers

Photo credit: Marc Green

Song: “Now It’s My Turn” from album “Strings Attached” featuring the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. Written by John Buckner Crawford

This is a Herizon Music Foundation production. 2021 ©. Special thanks to RAS Associates and Gibson Brands for supporting Herizon Music’s education, experience, and role-modeling programs. Contact info@herizonmusic.org if you’d like to join our cause.

Terri Nunn: From Sex to Transcendence w/ Strings Attached Overview

You may be asking: “What more does Kalie Shorr have to say?” As it turns out, a lot! If you missed the first episode titled "Kalie Shorr: How She Became An Open Book," <a href="https://backstagechats.com/kalie-shorr-part-1/">listen here</a>.In the conclusive deep dive chat with Kalie, she covers: — Discovering discrimination in the Nashville music scene— Using age as a power play — Putting sisters before misters— What feminists DON'T do to each other — The smart way to write a song about someone who has wronged you See full show notes and Kalie's new music videos (released after this chat was recorded) at BackstageChats.com.BCWIM is produced by Herizon Music Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit in Austin, TX. We depend on music fans like you to help keep this program and our other education and experience projects going so we can uplift the next gen of womxn in music. <a href="https://backstagechats.com/donate-2/">Learn more about our work</a>. Thank you for your support! SHOW CREDITSGuest: Kalie ShorrHost: Thea WoodPhoto: Catherine PowellProduction/Audio engineer: Thea WoodIntern: Alyssa ViernesSong: "Escape" written by Kalie Shorr and Candi Carpenter, from the album Open BookTheme Music provider: Pond 5 Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

You may be asking: “What more does Kalie Shorr have to say?” As it turns out, a lot! If you missed the first episode titled "Kalie Shorr: How She Became An Open Book," listen here.
In the conclusive deep dive chat with Kalie, she covers: 
— Discovering discrimination in the Nashville music scene
— Using age as a power play 
— Putting sisters before misters
— What feminists DON'T do to each other 
— The smart way to write a song about someone who has wronged you

See full show notes and Kalie's new music videos (released after this chat was recorded) at BackstageChats.com.
BCWIM is produced by Herizon Music Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit in Austin, TX. We depend on music fans like you to help keep this program and our other education and experience projects going so we can uplift the next gen of womxn in music. Learn more about our work. Thank you for your support! 
SHOW CREDITS
Guest: Kalie Shorr
Host: Thea Wood
Photo: Catherine Powell
Production/Audio engineer: Thea Wood
Intern: Alyssa Viernes
Song: "Escape" written by Kalie Shorr and Candi Carpenter, from the album Open Book
Theme Music provider: Pond 5

Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Kalie Shorr Pt 2 - Becoming Nashville's Straight-Shooting Feminist

Recorded in February 2021 via Zoom, Country music sensation Kalie Shorr shares her journey to voicing taboo topics in the first of a two-part podcast series. Her debut album “Open Book” was listed at #7 on the New York Times Best Albums of 2019, named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country, The New Nashville by Teen Vogue, a Top 10 Country Artists to Watch in 2019 by Huffington Post. In this Part 1 episode, Kalie Shorr covers:— Her tumultuous childhood growing up the youngest of 7 half siblings — The tragic loss that opened her up to voicing taboo topics in her songwriting— Teen eating disorders based on her personal struggle with anorexia and the road toward healing— Answers to the Shakedown questions, including the Pearl Jam song that shook her world Credits:Guest: Kalie ShorrHost: Thea WoodPhoto: Catherine PowellProduction/Audio engineer: John NeffIntern: Claudia DortmanTheme Music provider: Pond 5 Visit <a href="https://backstagechats.com/kalie-shorr-part-1">https://backstagechats.com/kalie-shorr-part-1</a> for expanded show notes, including artist music videos and social media links.

Recorded in February 2021 via Zoom, Country music sensation Kalie Shorr shares her journey to voicing taboo topics in the first of a two-part podcast series. Her debut album “Open Book” was listed at #7 on the New York Times Best Albums of 2019, named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country, The New Nashville by Teen Vogue, a Top 10 Country Artists to Watch in 2019 by Huffington Post.

In this Part 1 episode, Kalie Shorr covers:
— Her tumultuous childhood growing up the youngest of 7 half siblings 
— The tragic loss that opened her up to voicing taboo topics in her songwriting
— Teen eating disorders based on her personal struggle with anorexia and the road toward healing
— Answers to the Shakedown questions, including the Pearl Jam song that shook her world

Credits:
Guest: Kalie Shorr
Host: Thea Wood
Photo: Catherine Powell
Production/Audio engineer: John Neff
Intern: Claudia Dortman
Theme Music provider: Pond 5

Visit https://backstagechats.com/kalie-shorr-part-1 
for expanded show notes, including artist music videos and social media links. 

Ep 28: Blanca Cecilia Gonzalez is the epitome of realizing the American Dream. Her tale of immigrating from Columbia to the United States and rising to become the concert master multiple times at Carnegie Hall will warm your heart. Never miss an episode! <a href="https://backstagechats.us20.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=3c5aa662cf3f005da075f709d&id=f665ed4408">Sign up for the Spotlight Newsletter</a>. In this episode, Blanca covers:— What it was like adapting to her new life in New York at the tender age of four.— The “Suzuki Method” of learning to play an instruments— Playing Carnegie Hall for the first time — Why she was told not to wear shoes to a blind audition— Playing with the all-female, GRAMMY winning mariachi band Flor de Toloache— The advantages of collaborating and touring with her husband and their project “1 in 2.” Plus her answers to The Shakedown questions! <a href="https://backstagechats.com/donate-2">Donate to our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation TODAY</a> and help us uplift the next generation of women in music by supporting this podcast!Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Ep 28: Blanca Cecilia Gonzalez is the epitome of realizing the American Dream. Her tale of immigrating from Columbia to the United States and rising to become the concert master multiple times at Carnegie Hall will warm your heart. 
Never miss an episode! Sign up for the Spotlight Newsletter. 
In this episode, Blanca covers:
— What it was like adapting to her new life in New York at the tender age of four.
— The “Suzuki Method” of learning to play an instruments
— Playing Carnegie Hall for the first time 
— Why she was told not to wear shoes to a blind audition
— Playing with the all-female, GRAMMY winning mariachi band Flor de Toloache
— The advantages of collaborating and touring with her husband and their project “1 in 2.”
Plus her answers to The Shakedown questions! 
Donate to our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation TODAY and help us uplift the next generation of women in music by supporting this podcast!
Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Violinist Blanca Gonzalez from Columbia to Carnegie Hall

Kelley Glover is an ethnomusicologist, teacher, and entrepreneur who created, composed, and produced the music education game app and cartoon UBetterSing! One of her goals is to educate music lovers about systematic racism, colonization practices, and how they affect music academia. Kelley’s research and stories stem from her personal experiences and research at Howard University and public education music programs as both a student and teacher. This episode contains frank and sometimes difficult topics that we need to understand so we can all create and enjoy music that we believe in, relate to, and love. Never miss an episode! <a href="https://backstagechats.us20.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=3c5aa662cf3f005da075f709d&id=f665ed4408">Sign up for the Spotlight Newsletter</a>.                                      In this episode, Kelley covers:- Her relation to famous musical celebrities (Danny Glover isn’t one of them!). - Defining ethnomusicology, music appropriation in the classroom, and the white washing of blackface minstrel songs. - Mandated classical-European musical instruction and its limitations on diverse music genres in academia.- Research projects with Texas State University and HeartMath on the relation between stress, music, and meditation.- Her music education program UBetterSing! and its goal to educate the next generation of music in a modern, diverse, and entertaining way. And, of course, Kelley’s answers to The Shakedown! See guest links and videos here.<a href="https://backstagechats.com/donate-2">Donate to our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation TODAY</a> and help us uplift the next generation of women in music by supporting this podcast!Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Kelley Glover is an ethnomusicologist, teacher, and entrepreneur who created, composed, and produced the music education game app and cartoon UBetterSing! One of her goals is to educate music lovers about systematic racism, colonization practices, and how they affect music academia. Kelley’s research and stories stem from her personal experiences and research at Howard University and public education music programs as both a student and teacher. This episode contains frank and sometimes difficult topics that we need to understand so we can all create and enjoy music that we believe in, relate to, and love. 
Never miss an episode! Sign up for the Spotlight Newsletter.                                      
In this episode, Kelley covers:
- Her relation to famous musical celebrities (Danny Glover isn’t one of them!). 
- Defining ethnomusicology, music appropriation in the classroom, and the white washing of blackface minstrel songs. 
- Mandated classical-European musical instruction and its limitations on diverse music genres in academia.
- Research projects with Texas State University and HeartMath on the relation between stress, music, and meditation.
- Her music education program UBetterSing! and its goal to educate the next generation of music in a modern, diverse, and entertaining way. 
And, of course, Kelley’s answers to The Shakedown! See guest links and videos here.
Donate to our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation TODAY and help us uplift the next generation of women in music by supporting this podcast!
Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Ethnomusicology, Whitewashing, & Appropriation of Black Music feat. Kelley Glover

Maggie Szabo is a Canadian immigrant who's tackling feminine stereotypes, social injustice, and cellulite with lipstick in hand. Her pop music sensibilities poke fun at pop culture while redefining it for the next generation. We think she’s spot on… and 100% “worth the weight!”In this episode, Maggie Szabo covers:Making the music video “I Don’t Need You” during COVID (and who is the hot guy who wants his lipstick back?)Landing a promo song for BET series Tyler Perry’s Sistas and Jennifer Hudson choosing her song “Love Is Free” for The Voice contestant Kennedy Holmes.Her path to championing transgender youthBody shaming and facing the loaded question: “Is pop music ready for STRONG to be the new SEXY?”Don't miss an episode of Backstage Chats with Women in Music. <a href="https://backstagechats.us20.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=3c5aa662cf3f005da075f709d&id=f665ed4408">Sign up for our Spotlight Newsletter today</a>!Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Maggie Szabo is a Canadian immigrant who's tackling feminine stereotypes, social injustice, and cellulite with lipstick in hand. Her pop music sensibilities poke fun at pop culture while redefining it for the next generation. We think she’s spot on… and 100% “worth the weight!”
In this episode, Maggie Szabo covers:
Making the music video “I Don’t Need You” during COVID (and who is the hot guy who wants his lipstick back?)
Landing a promo song for BET series Tyler Perry’s Sistas and Jennifer Hudson choosing her song “Love Is Free” for The Voice contestant Kennedy Holmes.
Her path to championing transgender youth
Body shaming and facing the loaded question: “Is pop music ready for STRONG to be the new SEXY?”
Don't miss an episode of Backstage Chats with Women in Music. Sign up for our Spotlight Newsletter today!
Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Maggie Szabo: The Pride of New Pop Music Culture

Ava Paige is country music’s 16-year-old rising star who is wise beyond her years. A cancer diagnosis opened her young eyes to hardship, the importance of family (including those you choose), and the power of hope. In this episode, Ava covers:— How her single “Hope Comes In” took on a surprise meaning— The influence cancer has had on her relationship with music and songwriting— Appearing on “The Talk” with Marie Osmond and what they have in common— Her favorite cosmic obsession— The one life goal she’d like to achieve — and it’s a winner!   Help us keep Backstage Chats with Women in Music alive by supporting our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation.  <a href="https://backstagechats.com/donate-2/">Click here to learn more</a>.

Ava Paige is country music’s 16-year-old rising star who is wise beyond her years. A cancer diagnosis opened her young eyes to hardship, the importance of family (including those you choose), and the power of hope. In this episode, Ava covers:
— How her single “Hope Comes In” took on a surprise meaning
— The influence cancer has had on her relationship with music and songwriting
— Appearing on “The Talk” with Marie Osmond and what they have in common
— Her favorite cosmic obsession
— The one life goal she’d like to achieve — and it’s a winner!   
Help us keep Backstage Chats with Women in Music alive by supporting our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation.  Click here to learn more.

Nashville’s Ava Paige: When Hope Comes In (#cancersucks)

Lauren LoGrasso is a self-proclaimed multi-passionate creative.  Her two new songs “Road to Glory” and “RISE” are anthemic and optimistic at a time when society needs it most. Lauren is a musician, singer/songwriter, actor, podcast producer, and creativity coach who shares her views on creativity's role in overcoming fear, suffering, and the future of society.
Love what we're doing? Support our nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation.    Be an angel and give a girl wings! 
In this episode, Lauren covers:
-- Embracing "angsty optimism"
-- Her father's biggest fear for his daughter (sound familiar?) 
-- The scary side effects of repressed creativity
-- The most common trait that highly creative people share
And, of course, her answers to The Shakedown!
See additional music videos and social media links at https://backstagechats.com/lauren-lograsso
Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Lauren LoGrasso is a self-proclaimed multi-passionate creative.  Her two new songs “Road to Glory” and “RISE” are anthemic and optimistic at a time when society needs it most. Lauren is a musician, singer/songwriter, actor, podcast producer, and creativity coach who shares her views on creativity's role in overcoming fear, suffering, and the future of society.

Lauren LoGrasso: The Future, Fear, and The Age of Creativity

Denise Parent is the drummer and vocalist for the first all-female Grateful Dead tribute band. And we say “It’s about time!” Thanks to an introduction through David Ganz of The Grateful Dead Hour, host Thea Wood caught up with Parent for this remote interview. Parent covers a lot of ground, so pop in your earbuds and let’s get started with The Shakedown!  
(watch videos and more at the extended Show Notes page) 
Never miss an episode-- sign up for our newsletter.
In this episode Parent chats about:
- The historic night of her first all-female Dead cover band show
- How maturity has changed her approach toward drumming
- The joke she played on an unwitting fan (he was a good sport about it!)
- The “4 Agreements” - and why they’ve always stuck with her
- Different styles of how men and women communicate
Thank you to our friends at Strait Music in Austin, TX for supporting Herizon Music Foundation. 
This is a production of Herizon Music Foundation
Disclaimer: Opinions of show guests are not necessarily those of Herizon Music Foundation, Inc. or its employees, volunteers, officers/directors, or contractors.

Denise Parent is the drummer and vocalist for the first all-female Grateful Dead tribute band. And we say “It’s about time!” Thanks to an introduction through David Ganz of The Grateful Dead Hour, host Thea Wood caught up with Parent for this remote interview. Parent covers a lot of ground, so pop in your earbuds and let’s get started with The Shakedown!  

If you like what we're doing, please support us by donating at backstagechats.com. Thank you!


All Female Grateful Dead Tribute Band? It's About Time!

Today, we’re Zooming to you from Austin, Texas as we are all practicing a social distancing lifestyle during the coronavirus pandemic. If you're feeling the covid blues, this is your episode!
Meet Andra Liemandt, the co-founder of The Mrs, a pop band formed by a group of moms who have been on a mission since 2013. That mission and a powerful music video featuring a magic mirror earned national recognition on Good Morning America and the Queen Latifah Show. All in spite of record labels saying  "no" to their music based on ageism rather than merit.
Andra Liemandt is the drummer, singer, songwriter and philanthropist who will build you up, buttercup!   Extended show notes, videos, and more at BackstageChats.com.
Special thanks to Kendra Scott, Cobi Collins of Mary Kay Cosmetics, and Lover Girl Cosmetics.
In this episode, Andra Liemandt covers:
-- Facing vulnerability during the global pandemic
-- How Liemandt faced blatant ageism in the music industry, and worked around it
-- How her dance background contributed to her musical talents
-- Why she founded Kindness Campaign, focusing on youth's mental health

Today, we’re Zooming to you from Austin, Texas as we are all practicing a social distancing lifestyle during the coronavirus pandemic. If you're feeling the covid blues, this is your episode!

Meet Andra Liemandt, the co-founder of The Mrs, a pop band formed by a group of moms who have been on a mission since 2013. That mission and a powerful music video featuring a magic mirror earned national recognition on Good Morning America and the Queen Latifah Show. All in spite of record labels saying  "no" to their music based on ageism rather than merit.

Here she is… drummer, singer, songwriter, philanthropist, and the woman who will build you up, buttercup!   Extended show notes, videos, and more at BackstageChats.com.


The Mrs. Drummer Andra Liemandt: A Mom On A Mission

Today, we’re coming at you from Strait Music, Austin’s 3rd generation, family-owned music store that has won the Austin Music Awards Best Instrument Repair award for three out of the last four years.   
The secret sauce includes not one but *two* female guitar techs (and multi-instrumentalists) who work side by side, which is like finding a 5-leaf clover in the desert.   
Meet the women who are upstairs, behind the bench, and close to every guitar’s heart: Lauren Ellis and Jessica Baker.
Our podcast is a production of the nonprofit Herizon Music Foundation. Please support the next generation of women in music through education, experience, and role modeling programs. Click here to donate today. 
IN THIS EPISODE
Jessica and Lauren cover:
-- The difference between a guitar tech, a backline tech, and a luthier.
-- Lauren’s experience of touring with The Eagles vs. The Monkees.
-- Jessica’s hardest gig EVER, and why she’d do it all over again.
-- How to play with the boys and be taken seriously.
-- Are United Auto Workers union members natural musicians? Lauren knows best :-) 
And, of course, The Shakedown!
Thanks to Caroline Crawford Consulting for supporting Herizon Music Foundation and the next generation of women in music. More information about her nonprofit consulting services is at CarolineCrawfordConsulting.com.

Today, we’re coming at you from Strait Music, Austin’s 3rd generation, family-owned music store that has won the Austin Music Awards Best Instrument Repair award for three out of the last four years.   

The secret sauce includes not one but *two* female guitar techs (and multi-instrumentalists) who work side by side, which is like finding a 5-leaf clover in the desert.   

Meet the women who are upstairs, behind the bench, and close to every guitar’s heart: Lauren Ellis and Jessica Baker.  See extended episode notes for more info...

Female Guitar Techs Who Don’t Fret The Small Stuff

Having moved ~28 times by age 21, nomadic singer/songwriter Shelley King found her heart and her home in Austin, Texas. Shelley is a singer-songwriter, band leader, and the first woman to be appointed Official State Musician of Texas by the state legislature in 2008. She’s the boot scootin’, whisky shootin’, darling of Texas music royalty. Get ready for a high-energy chat with Shelley King recorded at One-2-One Bar in Austin, TX.
In this episode, you'll get the inside story on: 
-- Why Shelley moved so often growing up and its influence on her music
-- Collaborating  with her "Texas Trifecta" friends Marcia Ball and Caroline Wonderland (how she met Wonderland is music history gold)
-- The divine intervention that shaped her song "Levon's Drum," in tribute to the late Levon Helm, for her album Kick Up Your Heels.
-- The moment she realized she'd rather play on stage than sit in a law office.
And, of course, Shelley answers "The Shakedown" questions with royal flare!
See videos, music links, and extended Show Notes on BackstageChats.com/shelley-king
If you like what we're doing, please donate to Herizon Music Foundation, which produces our podcast. 
Thanks to our friends at Green Rush Austin for choosing Herizon Music Foundation as their preferred charity. 

Having moved ~28 times by age 21, nomadic artist Shelley King found her heart and her home in Austin, Texas. Shelley is a singer-songwriter, band leader, and the first woman to be appointed Official State Musician of Texas by the state legislature in 2008. She’s the boot scootin’, whisky shootin’, darling of Texas music royalty. Get ready for a high-energy chat with Shelley King recorded at One-2-One Bar in Austin, TX. 

Shelley King is Ready To Ramble --  Texas Style

Don’t let the sweet smile and upbeat outlook fool you. Throw Kendal Conrad to the wolves, and she’ll come back the leader of the pack. Kendal is country pop’s rising star who isn’t afraid to create her own opportunity in an industry full of closed doors and scary stories. In fact, she’s up for the challenge with her “I dare you” attitude and a killer cowboy boot collection.  
Love what we're doing? Please click the "donate" button at https://backstagechats.com.
In this episode, Kendal Conrad reveals:
Why she hesitated to release her single “Leader of the Pack”
How she wound up singing on stage with Keith Urban
The trick to landing stadium gigs
Her obsession with horror movies, including a lullaby for Norman Bates
The tough road for women in country music
 
Thanks to Labyrinth, Inc. for supporting Herizon Music Foundation. More information is at labyrinth.com.  
Thanks to the international Wellness Shoppers Club for partnering with Herizon Music Foundation.  More information is at info.greenrushaustin.com
Credits:
“Leader of The Pack” song by Kendal Conrad, Sharen Conrad, Anthony Gallagher
Host: Thea Wood
Production: Podcast Engineers
Voiceover: Cathryn Wood
Feature photo: Jim Trocchio 
 

Don’t let the sweet smile and upbeat outlook fool you. Throw Kendal Conrad to the wolves, and she’ll come back the leader of the pack. Kendal is country pop’s rising star who isn’t afraid to create her own opportunity in an industry full of closed doors and scary stories. In fact, she’s up for the challenge with her “I dare you” attitude and a killer cowboy boot collection.  
See Show Notes below for "In This Episode" fun facts. Love what we're doing? Please click the "donate" button at backstagechats.com.

Kendal Conrad: Country Pop’s New Leader of The Pack

Recorded at the end of 2019, this chat with guitarist/singer/songwriter Jackie Venson foreshadows events that would unfold in Summer 2020. Just a few weeks before launching this episode, Jackie took a stand. She publicly turned down an invitation to play the perennial event “Blues on The Green” which is hosted by Austin City Limits Radio.  Listen to the episode to find out why she turned it down and what history-changing result came of it.
Thanks to the international Wellness Shoppers Club for partnering with Herizon Music Foundation.  More information is at info.greenrushaustin.com
In this episode, Jackie Venson covers:
-- The “zen” aspects of not hyper-focusing on career goals
-- Why cities like Austin struggle with musical and racial diversity  
-- Standing up for yourself in business and creative decisions
-- Technology’s role in her live performances
-- Who would be in her “dream band”  

Recorded at the end of 2019, this chat with guitarist/singer/songwriter Jackie Venson foreshadows events that would unfold in Summer 2020. Just a few weeks before launching this episode, Jackie took a stand. She publicly turned down an invitation to play the perennial event “Blues on The Green” which is hosted by Austin City Limits Radio.  Listen to the episode to find out why she turned it down and what history-changing result came of it.

In this episode, Jackie Venson covers:

-- The “zen” aspects of not hyper-focusing on career goals
-- Why cities like Austin struggle with musical and racial diversity  
-- Standing up for yourself in business and creative decisions
-- Technology’s role in her live performances
-- Who would be in her “dream band”  


Denise Kaufman (a.k.a. Mary Microgram) is an original Merry Prankster and co-founder of 1960’s psychedelic rock band Ace of Cups.
Cups was one of the first all female rock bands who wrote and performed their own music in the United States. They earned great success in the 1960’s San Francisco music scene, playing with The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Quick Silver Messenger, and Janis Joplin & The Holding Company to name a few.
Jimi Hendrix praised Ace of Cups in the media. Yet, they never signed a record deal, and after five years together, the players went their separate ways on good terms.
After almost 50 years, the band reformed to record an astounding 24 music tracks for their first studio album titled Ace of Cups.  Denise Kaufman’s bandmates include: Mary Gannon (bass), Marla Hunt (organ, piano), Mary Ellen Simpson (lead guitar), and Diane Vitalich (drums).
Denise Kaufman proves that not all who wander are lost— they may just be taking an unconventional path! She’s Ace of Cups harmonica-playing singer-songwriter, guitarist/bassist, true life Merry Prankster, and the yogi whom the stars call. 
In this episode, Denise Kaufman covers:

How her Merry Prankster acid days led to a hospital stay that sparked the formation of Ace of Cups

The surprise revival of the band’s psychedelic sound 50 years later

Swapping musical ideas with her yoga client named Madonna (yes, THAT Madonna)

Handling the death of friends from the Haight-Ashbury music scene    

If you love what we’re doing, please support our show and the next generation of women by donating just $10 today.  Click here to give the gift of music to a teen girl in need. Thank you!

Denise Kaufman (a.k.a. Mary Microgram) is an original Merry Prankster and co-founder of 1960’s psychedelic rock band Ace of Cups.

Cups was one of the first all female rock bands who wrote and performed their own music in the United States. They earned great success in the '60s San Francisco music scene, playing with The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Quick Silver Messenger, and Janis Joplin & The Holding Company to name a few. 

Jimi Hendrix praised Ace of Cups in the media. Yet, they never signed a record deal, and after five years together, the players went their separate ways on good terms. 

After almost 50 years, the band reformed to record an astounding 24 music tracks for their first studio album titled Ace of Cups.  Denise Kaufman’s bandmates include: Mary Gannon (bass), Marla Hunt (organ, piano), Mary Ellen Simpson (lead guitar), and Diane Vitalich (drums).

Denise Kaufman proves that not all who wander are lost— they may just be taking an unconventional path! She’s Ace of Cups harmonica-playing singer-songwriter, guitarist/bassist, true life Merry Prankster, and the yogi whom the stars call. Let’s take a feel-good trip with Denise Kaufman!

If you love what we’re doing, please support our show and the next generation of women by donating just $10 today.  Visit HerizonMusicFoundation.org. Thank you!

Ace of Cups' Denise Kaufman & Her Unconventional Path To Success

The healing power of music is real, and leading researcher/music therapist Hope Young is on the cutting edge of breakthroughs in treating chronic disease, autism, ADHD, and mental illness. Young discusses the science behind music therapy and the successes she has witnessed.  
Hope Young has treated patients with various ailments for over 30 years and shares her stories of hope for those who previously had none. Trigger warning: chronic disease, mental illness, and suicide are all discussed in this episode. If you are experiencing any health issues or suicidal thoughts, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. 
In this episode,  you'll hear:
-- How music affects the brain differently than other forms of stimulation
-- An example of music that helps Cerebral Palsy and Parkinson's patients walk with ease
-- Treating ADHD and Autistic kids with music
-- Combining artificial intelligence with music for anytime-anywhere relief 
Plus Hope's answers to The Shakedown!

The healing power of music is real, and leading researcher/music therapist Hope Young is on the cutting edge of breakthroughs in treating chronic disease, autism, ADHD, and mental illness. Young discusses the science behind music therapy and the successes she has witnessed.  

Music Therapist Hope Young & The Success of  Medical-Grade Music

From music teacher to innovative looping artist/vocalist/songwriter/producer, Angela Sheik stuns audiences as a live looper whose bare feet create songs before your very ears. Winner of the 2011-2012 Boss U.S. National Loop Champion, her 2019 Tiny Desk Contest submission "chiN uP giRL" received an honorable mention and well-deserved praise from NPR's "All Songs Considered." 
If you like what you hear, support the cause by visiting backstagechats.com and clicking the DONATE button.
In this episode, Angela talks about

What defines a looping artist

Three key factors to her looping success (it ain't easy!)

Opening for Meshell N'degeocello

Lesson learned with her Tiny Desk submission

And, of course, you'll love her answers to The Shakedown!
Buy Angela Sheik's Music
Follow Angela on Instagram and Facebook  and Twitter and Spotify
Watch her videos
 
 

From music teacher to innovative looping artist, vocalist, and musician, Angela Sheik stuns audiences as a live looper who creates a song before your very ears. Winner of the 2011-2012 Boss U.S. National Loop Champion, and her 2019 Tiny Desk Contest submission "chiN uP giRL" received well-deserved praise from NPR's "All Songs Considered." 
If you like what you hear, support the cause by visiting backstagechats.com and clicking the donate button.

Angela Sheik: The Best Barefoot Live Looper Brings It On

Ali Dineen is a singer-songwriter and musician based in New York City. She’s performed her original music from the American folk tradition at the Savannah Music Festival, the American Folk Art Museum, and the Brooklyn Folk Festival, just to name a few. Ali’s lyrics have been described as poetic and deeply personal. When talking about her new EP, Hold On, she said, “This album grew out of personal heartbreak, and the feeling of a collective heartbreak as we’ve watched the world descend farther into fascism and irreversible climate catastrophe… It took moving through heartbreak and disillusionment and grief, to arrive not at ecstasy or a belief that everything will be okay, but at the realization that life continues somehow and is resilient… no matter how long we’ve got, we need to love, and fight relentlessly for one another.” Ali was recently awarded a Helene Wurlitzer Foundation residency in Taos, New Mexico, where she’s spending the winter working on her next creative endeavor. Credits: Hosted and produced by Eleanor Bennett. Executive Producer is Thea Wood. "Hold On" and "Prayer" by Ali Dineen. Voiceover by Cathryn Wood. Photo by by Alexis Lim, styling by Athena Zammit. Album art by Ali Dineen.
 
In this episode, Ali Dineen covers:

How leaving a hand-written note on a stranger’s door led her to a lifelong friend and mentor

Intersections between her own music and the larger histories of the American folk tradition

Why her personal encounters with pain and grief have allowed her to know joy

Paying homage to folk traditions and spirituals from the US, the oldest of which were created by black people suffering under slavery and terrible oppression

Credits:
Host: Eleanor Bennett
Production: Eleanor Bennett
Executive Producer: Thea Wood
Voiceover: Cathryn Wood
Photos by Alexis Lim, styling by Athena Zammit
Album art by Ali Dineen
Donate to BCF TODAY and help us amplify the voices and careers of women in music!
Guest Links
Web site: alidineen.com
Instagram: @ali_dineen https://www.instagram.com/ali_dineen/?hl=en
Facebook: Ali Dineen https://www.facebook.com/Alidineenmusic/
Bandcamp: https://alisondineen.bandcamp.com/album/hold-on
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3lEYF8UlOlwPq2WLzgqioQ?si=xsjUj8FFQkqH2Q7AVK9eSw
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/hold-on-ep/1495314384
 

Ali Dineen is a singer-songwriter and musician based in New York City. She’s performed her original music from the American folk tradition at the Savannah Music Festival, the American Folk Art Museum, and the Brooklyn Folk Festival, just to name a few. Ali’s lyrics have been described as poetic and deeply personal. When talking about her new EP, Hold On, she said, “This album grew out of personal heartbreak, and the feeling of a collective heartbreak as we’ve watched the world descend farther into fascism and irreversible climate catastrophe… It took moving through heartbreak and disillusionment and grief, to arrive not at ecstasy or a belief that everything will be okay, but at the realization that life continues somehow and is resilient… no matter how long we’ve got, we need to love, and fight relentlessly for one another.” Ali was recently awarded a Helene Wurlitzer Foundation residency in Taos, New Mexico, where she’s spending the winter working on her next creative endeavor. Credits: Hosted and produced by Eleanor Bennett. Executive Producer is Thea Wood. "Hold On" and "Prayer" by Ali Dineen. Voiceover by Cathryn Wood. Photo by by Alexis Lim, styling by Athena Zammit. Album art by Ali Dineen. 

If you love what we’re doing, please support our show and the next generation of women by donating $10 today.  Thank you!


Ali Dineen Speaks Truth to Power in Her Latest LP

As a practitioner of the Blues, Karma Mayet describes her sound as “equal parts funk and glitter, cornbread and molasses.” Born in Chicago, the composer and performer has traveled the globe, collaborating with the likes of Meshell Ndegeocello, Lizz Wright, Vernon Reid, and The Roots. Karma has developed her own unique practice called Rootsong, which combines yogic healing with the power of voice. Credits: Hosted and produced by Eleanor Bennett. Executive Producer is Thea Wood. "You Ain't Changed," "September Song" and "Woman" by Karma Mayet. Voiceover by Cathryn Wood. Photograph by Karl Ferguson Jr.
If you love what we’re doing, please support our show and the next generation of women by donating $10 today.  Thank you!
In this episode, Karma Mayet covers:

Why she wept the first time she went to the Michigan Womyn’s Music Festival

Building a career as a strong, independent artist and paying the bills

The historic role black women like blues artist Bessie Smith played in founding the music industry

How the voice can be used as a medicine and tonic for inner healing

The power of forgiveness and accountability when collaborating with fellow artists

Guest Links
Web sites: karmamayet.com // rootsong.net
Facebook: Karma Mayet https://www.facebook.com/karmamayet/
Instagram: @karmamayet https://www.instagram.com/karmamayet/
Twitter: @KarmaMayet https://twitter.com/KarmaMayet
Video
Karma Mayet “September Song”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQjM7ifYIvs
Donate to BCF TODAY and help us amplify the voices and careers of women in music!

As a practitioner of the Blues, Karma Mayet describes her sound as “equal parts funk and glitter, cornbread and molasses.” Born in Chicago, the composer and performer has traveled the globe, collaborating with the likes of Meshell Ndegeocello, Lizz Wright, Vernon Reid, and The Roots. Karma has developed her own unique practice called Rootsong, which combines yogic healing with the power of voice. Credits: Hosted and produced by Eleanor Bennett. Executive Producer is Thea Wood. "You Ain't Changed," "September Song" and "Woman" by Karma Mayet. Voiceover by Cathryn Wood. Photograph by Karl Ferguson Jr. 

If you love what we’re doing, please support our show and the next generation of women by donating $10 today.  Thank you!

Karma Mayet: Blues Artist, RootWoman and Healer

Susan Rogers' chat was so informative that we split it into two episodes. This is Part 2, where Susan talks about 
* Her teachings/research at Berklee College of Music. 
* The differences in working with men and women 
* What happens to your career when your "eggs" are about to expire 
* How women and men are physically and psychologically impacted differently (and sometimes the same!) by music, and the conscious decisions artists/engineers/producers make as a result. 
* She also answers audience questions!
This episode was recorded remotely using Zoom.
We'd like to thank our friends at Via313 Pizzeria for supporting this podcast.
If you like what we're doing and want to help us amplify the voices and careers of women in music, please donate today. Your gift helps our programs, including scholarship grants for teen girls in need who want to attend music and sound camps. Learn more about Backstage Chats Foundation.
Photo credits:

Sign o’ the Times tour, 1987 — Ruud Schouten

Odds, Vancouver, 1991 — Doug Elliott

In New Zealand

Red Bull Music Academy, 2016

Headshot — Jandro Cisneros

Susan Rogers' chat was so informative that we split it into two episodes. This is Part 2, where Susan talks about 
* Her teachings/research at Berklee College of Music. 
* The differences in working with men and women 
* What happens to your career when your "eggs" are about to expire
* How women and men are physically and psychologically impacted differently (and sometimes the same!) by music, and the conscious decisions artists/engineers/producers make as a result. 
* She also answers audience questions!    

Susan Rogers Pt. 2:  The Modern Complexities of Women and Music

Susan Rogers is a professor at Berklee College of Music who broke gender norms by becoming one of the few female audio engineers in the 1980s. Her life took a sudden turn when she joined Prince's team and went on to engineer Purple Rain, Around The World In A Day, and Sign 'O' The Times. This episode focuses on her work with Prince. Part 2 focuses on her work at Berklee and why women face different challenges than men do in their careers. 
Thanks to our friends at The Inn At Newport Ranch for making this episode possible.
Backstage Chats Foundation is a nonprofit that depends on your support to produce the podcast and provide scholarship grants for teen girls in need. Uplift the next generation of female music makers and donate today.
In this episode, one of a two-part series, Susan reveals:

Her awkward first run-in with his Royal Badness

Why Prince loved and preferred to work with women

How she and The Revolution got through Prince's death

And don't forget about The Shakedown, a standard set of questions we ask all of our special guests!
Find links, videos, and more information on our web site's expanded Show Notes page.
 

Susan Rogers is a professor at Berklee College of Music who broke gender norms by becoming one of the few female audio engineers in the 1980s. Her life took a sudden turn when she joined Prince's team and went on to engineer Purple Rain, Around The World In A Day, and Sign 'O' The Times. This episode focuses on her work with Prince. Part 2 focuses on her work at Berklee and why women face different challenges than men do in their careers. 

In this episode, Leslie Nuss covers:
-- Why she took a 10+ year hiatus from songwriting/recording
-- How an innocent trip to the movies turned into a traumatic, life-changing turning point
-- An unexpected cover of "Eye of The Tiger" by Survivor
-- Making her own clothing and applying for the hit TV show Project Runway
Thank you to the Ritz-Carlton Chicago for hosting this episode at their architecturally captivating Water Tower Place location.
Visit the complete Show Notes with links to Leslie's music, videos, and social media.

Leslie Nuss is the thinking girl’s singer/songwriter who personifies the perfect balance of strength and femininity. After surviving a traumatic event, Leslie hit a turning point that's reflected in her music, which floats between dream pop and pop rock. (If you like Amy Mann's vibe, you'll love Leslie!) Note: In this episode we discuss a random act of violence that may be disturbing or upsetting to some audience members. Thank you to Leslie for bravely sharing her story with us.

Leslie Nuss Fights Back with Random Acts of Grace

In this episode, Jan Bozarth chats about:

Why "selling out" is no longer relevant

Key success factors to controlling your career

How surviving Stage 3 breast cancer affected her creativity and priorities

The story behind "True Love Train"

The BCWIM podcast and scholarship grants are made possible because of music lovers like you. Help us amplify the voices and careers of women in music and donate to the cause.
Guest links:
ReDragonFly.com
Dreameroo.com
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Credits:
Host: Thea WoodProduction: Allyson HolleyVoiceover: Cathryn Wood
 

While Jan Bozarth has seen much success in her music career, you won’t see her headlining festivals or getting into twitter wars with public personalities.  
You see, Jan is a living testament to how creating and licensing music for commercial products and brands can provide a successful career in the arts. Back in the day, she may have been called a sellout.  Today, she’s considered a business-minded artist. 
Jan is also a breast cancer survivor. We dedicate this episode to all women (and their loved ones) who are fighting or have fought this disease.  

Ep 9: Jan Bozarth & The House That Barbie Built

In this episode, Jamie Bahr chats about:

The unexpected finale of her first European tour.

The emotional impact of music camps for teen girls and their families.

How she became a comic book super hero.

Her mom's shocking words that shut up a belligerent concert attendee.

And don't forget about The Shakedown, a standard set of questions we ask all of our special guests!
Donate to BCF TODAY and us amplify the voices and careers of women in music!
Our friends at The Inn at Newport Ranch are supporters of Backstage Chats Foundation. Located on the scenic ocean front of Mendocino County, California, the Inn at Newport Ranch was voted one of the 20 Best Hotels in the world by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report. As a guest, you’ll enjoy hiking and guided ATV tours through 2000 acres of Redwoods, horseback riding along 20 miles of world class trails, trips to local wineries, and even whale watching.
It’s a nature lover’s paradise for everything from executive retreats to small weddings. Learn more by visiting TheInnAtNewportRanch.com

Jamie Bahr the singer/songwriter/bassist for Danger Cakes, an Austin-based rockabilly girl band that will knock you out of your bobby socks! She's also the executive director of Girls Rock Austin, which  is a partner of Backstage Chats Foundation. This episode is brought to you by The Inn at Newport Ranch. 

Ep 8: Jamie Bahr - Rockabilly Super Hero?

In this episode, Boyfriend chats about:

Reconciling her rap cabaret art with her conservative christian upbringing

Experiencing Imposter Syndrome

Hairy armpits & beauty pains

The problem with social media

And don't forget about The Shakedown, a standard set of questions we ask all of our special guests!
Who was your first concert?What was the first album you bought with your own money?Which artist or band is in heavy rotation on your playlist right now?Which woman has had the most influence on your career?If you could have dinner with any woman dead or alive, who would it be?What is one life goal you’d like to accomplish before climbing that golden Stairway To Heaven?

Singer/songwriter Boyfriend is a Nashville native who is spreading her storytelling wings in New Orleans as the original rap cabaret artist. Her love of musical theater translates to a burlesque style live show complete with vintage lingerie, big ass hair rollers, and the occasional food fight.  

We’d like to thank our friends at The Ritz Carlton New Orleans for supporting the Backstage Chats Foundation and hosting our interview in the world famous French Quarter.


Ep 7: Boyfriend Wants Your F*ing Attention

In this episode you’ll hear:

— The unconventional approach Ghostlight took to recording the album Best Kept Secrets
— What it was like playing with two of her musical idols
— Late night musical meditations (her best kept musical secret)
— The most influential woman in her musical career

Born and raised in San Francisco Bay area, Holly Bowling started playing piano at age 5 and captivates audiences with her solo tours as well as her latest tour with jam band Ghostlight in support of their record “Best Kept Secrets.”  

Ep 6: Holly Bowling Spins Classical Piano Into Jam Band Gold

In this chat with Misty Boyce in Denver, CO, you’ll hear:
— Misty’s fun answers to “The Shakedown” questionnaire.
— Why her album Get Lost gets pretty heavy lyrically– and who is Marie?!?
— Her take on women’s treatment and progress in the music business.
—Answers to your fan questions, including what it was like to accompany Ashley C. Ford’s live performance on the Animal Meditation’s Podcast.
Credits: Hosted and produced by Eleanor Bennett. Voiceover by Cathy Wood. Everything else by Thea Wood
JOIN US! We are a donation-driven nonprofit on a mission to amplify the voices and careers of women in music.  You can help end gender disparity in the music business! Click here to donate or contact us about volunteer opportunities.

In her latest release, Get Lost, this singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist digs in to her own experience with tragedy and loss, isolation and the emptiness of fame. 

Ep 5: Misty Boyce Gets Lost, and Found, in her latest LP

You’ll also hear:

— Which skill set helps Juno in relating to multicultural acts and cities.

— Willa’s experience working SXSW for the first time and how it took her out of her comfort zone.

— What the ladies are seeing in shifting music trends, including looping.

— A serendipitous story involving the Scottish band Lucia.

— Tips for women who may want to become sound engineers.

Credits: Hosted by Thea Wood. Produced by Allyson Holley.

Guest Links:
SoundGirls.Org
Juno's Facebook
Juno's Instagram
Juno's Website
Willa's Facebook
Willa's Instagram
Willa's Website

Only 5% of sound engineers are women. In this episode, meet two who share their sound experiences working with bands—including one nasty incident that teaches all women how to respect themselves. Juno Black and Willa Snow are our featured guests courtesy of Soundgirls.org.

Ep 4: Behind The Soundboard with Juno Black & Willa Snow

You’ll hear:
— Why this young performer already feels so comfortable onstage.
— How Naïa hopes listeners feel when they hear her music.
— Why Naïa considers herself different than most adults.
— The first album Naïa purchased with her own money... it will surprise you!
Credits: Hosted by Thea Wood. Produced by Allyson Holley. Photo by @jpieroaz
Sponsored by The Bee Happy Subscription Box
Guest Links:FacebookInstagram TwitterStreaming YoutubeTour dates

This Latina singer/songwriter talks about growing up in Peru, the thrill of touring the U.S. for the first time, and her new EP.

Ep 3: Naïa Valdez Imports Delicious Folk Pop to the U.S.

You’ll hear:

— Karina’s favorite bass player and why.

— What it was like doing a sound check with Phish.

— A day in the life of Karina when she’s not touring (it’s pretty packed).

— What she wants to achieve before climbing the golden stairway to heaven.

Credits: Hosted by Thea Wood. Produced by Eleanor Bennett. Photo by Ace Cool.

Sponsored by The Bee Happy Subscription Box

Special thanks to Tito’s Handmade Vodka for hosting this backstage chat on the Tito’s Tour Bus at the Hogs for the Cause festival in New Orleans.

Guest Links:
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Website
Streaming
Youtube
Tour dates

This 24 yo bassist is touring with Marco Benevento and working on her first album “The Karina Rykman Experiment.” In this episode, she busts myths about traveling with a group of guys, rapports between touring female performers, and how to handle the dreaded mansplaining. She ends the chat with answers to fan questions!

Ep 2: Shredding with Karina Rykman in New Orleans

You’ll hear:

— Which two country music icons can type and sell you a pair of cowboy boots.

— The craziest online chat Thea can remember hosting (it involves beer and karate kicks).

— The sad but true state of gender disparity in the music industry, supported by startling statistics.

— Why Joan Jett and her band The Black Hearts induction into the Rock n Roll hall of fame in 2015 was a long time coming. Check out Joan Jett’s acceptance speech.

— How sharing the stories of women in music and investing in the next generation of female music makers can empower each of us to make meaningful and lasting change.

Credits: Hosted by Thea Wood. Produced by Eleanor Bennett. Photo by: RL Wood.

Sponsored by: The Bee Happy Subscription Box

Thea Wood shares how one rock star’s documentary inspired her to change careers at age 50! Unleashing her inner rock star, Thea decided to shift back and give back to the most positive influence in her life: music. 


https://noteworthy-rss.streamguys1.com/noteworthy/backstage-chats-with-women-in-music-itunes.xml

Backstage Chats with Women In Music

Donna Jean Godchaux MacKay, Part 2