She Rocked It: Recent Episodes
Hosted by Karen Gross
Writer/singer Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. The She Rocked It podcast raises the volume on women's voices, pulling back the curtain on the lives of courageous women who are rocking it in various careers. Their behind-the-scenes stories, empowering tips, and best-kept secrets to success are sure to inspire the rock star in all of us! Ready to rock? Let’s go. ABOUT THE HOST: A professional writer and singer for two decades, Karen Gross has a unique understanding of the power and impact of the voice. As a singer, she has performed everywhere from prestigious theaters, to HGTV, to intimate jazz and cabaret clubs. As a speechwriter and journalist, she has had the opportunity to write about and for some of the nation’s most influential, inspiring women leaders. Now, she invites others into these intimate conversations – because when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL rise to new rockstar heights.
Recorded live at The Bridge Studio in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, #RealTalk with Women in the Music Industry: From Studio to Sync brought women making an impact on the NYC music industry together for an intimate panel discussion and podcast taping as part of New York Music Month 2024! NY Music Month is an initiative of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media + Entertainment. GET TUNED IN: visit NYMusicMonth.NYC
Hosted by She Rocked It’s Karen Gross and featuring four rockstar panelists, this honest, inspiring, and informative conversation features real talk and actionable tips about gaining and maintaining a foothold in the music industry, and having the confidence to raise your voice and lead in an industry where women are still woefully underrepresented. You’ll hear from:
Mona Kayhan, Majority owner of The Bridge Studio (Williamsburg, Brooklyn), a classic, large-format “big room” analog and digital recording and video production studio (and our wonderful host for this conversation)
Jeanne Montalvo, Grammy-nominated audio engineer and award-winning radio producer
Jen Pearce, Founder of Low Profile, a music licensing & consulting agency based in Brooklyn, NY
Rashida Scott-Cruz, Professor of Music Industry at Monmouth University and mentor to future generations of music industry professionals
Plus, a special introduction from Shira Gans, Senior Executive Director of Policy + Programs at the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, and the creator and curator of NY Music Month!
This is episode six of She Rocked It’s Real Talk with Women in the Music Industry podcast series. Special thanks to The Bridge Studio and the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment for their collaboration and support of this episode.
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Episode highlights:
[3:05] Introduction from NY Music Month creator and curator Shira Gans – including how Shira met Karen Gross at Wesleyan University while they were living at Womanist House
[8:10] Learn how panelists Jeanne Montalvo, Mona Kayhan, Jen Pearce, and Rashida Scott-Cruz are rocking it in the music industry
[19:43] Hear lessons from the panelists’ professional journeys — how they gained a foothold in the music industry and maintained it over the years
[33:08] Obstacles and opportunities for women working in music in NYC
[38:46] Top tips for artists looking to break into the world of sync
[44:45] How to support women in recording studio environments
[49:53] Tips for mustering the confidence and courage to lead
[55:45] Host Karen Gross and the panelists share their tips to ROCK IT
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Links from this episode:
She Is The Music: https://sheisthemusic.org/
Amplify Her Voice: https://www.amplifyhervoice.org/
Women in the Mix study from the the Recording Academy, Berklee College Of Music, and Arizona State University: https://www.grammy.com/news/women-in-the-mix-study-2022-results-key-findings-recording-academy-arizona-state-university-berklee-college-music
Audio Engineering Society: https://aes2.org/
DISCO: https://www.disco.ac/
For additional resources, visit our episode page here
If you’d like to join us for future podcast recordings and other empowering live events, head over to our website and subscribe to our email list! https://sherockedit.com/
Don’t miss the fifth episode of our Real Talk with Women in the Music Industry podcast series, featuring three-time GRAMMY-winning producer Cheryl Pawelski!
In this fun and revealing conversation, Cheryl gets real about her experiences preserving, curating, and championing some of music’s greatest legacies – and shares some incredible behind-the-scenes stories involving Aretha Franklin, Taylor Swift, and legendary Elektra Records founder Jac Holzman.
After a fateful ABBA show cemented Cheryl’s calling in the music industry, she held positions at Rhino, Concord, and EMI-Capitol Records before co-founding Omnivore Recordings.
Her journey is sure to inspire anyone looking to pursue a creative, courageous career and blaze a unique, uncharted trail. Tune in and rock on!
Special thanks to Gregg Bendian for connecting Cheryl with She Rocked It.Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kJiAgV2C9WM
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Episode highlights:[2:11] How Cheryl’s unique career in music took shape
[6:23] How Cheryl navigated the male-dominated music industry
[10:25] Why Cheryl pivoted from major labels and co-founded Omnivore Recordings
[12:35] Some behind-the-scenes stories featuring Aretha Franklin and Taylor Swift
[15:21] #Realtalk about Cheryl’s relationship with rockstar wife Audrey Bilger, president of Reed College – including how they met!
[25:15] Cheryl’s advice for up-and-coming women in the music industry
[28:10] Cheryl’s one tip to rock it
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Links from this episode:
Cheryl’s website: https://cherylpawelski.com/
Cheryl’s GRAMMY wins and nominations: https://www.grammy.com/artists/cheryl-pawelski/17213
Omnivore Recordings: https://omnivorerecordings.com/
Annenberg Inclusion Initiative study: https://www.newsroom.spotify.com/2022-03-31/usc-annenbergs-inclusion-in-the-recording-studio-study-finds-that-more-work-toward-gender-equity-is-needed/
Jeff Tweedy: https://jefftweedy.com/
Wilco: https://wilcoworld.net/
Aretha Franklin: https://www.arethafranklin.net/
Robbie Robertson: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Robertson
Jac Holzman: https://www.rockhall.com/inductees/jac-holzman
Bethany Lyons on the She Rocked It Podcast: https://sherockedit.com/bethany-lyons-owning-it-like-a-boss/
Gregg Bendian: https://www.bendianmusic.com/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Tanya Morgan is using her creativity to help change lives for the better.
In 2022, she merged her roles as an actor, improviser, mental health professional, and social emotional learning (SEL) interventionist and opened the doors of the Sawubona Creativity Project – a theater space on the vibrant East Passyunk Avenue in South Philadelphia.
Tanya’s mission is to create “brave spaces where children and adults can learn and practice vital interpersonal skills,” and in this episode, you’ll hear about Tanya’s own brave journey to launching Sawubona Creativity Project and how she found the courage, support, and funding to make it happen.
Plus, Tanya gets real about raising her family while nurturing her dream creative business. Don’t miss this candid conversation with a creative, compassionate rockstar.
____________________________________________Episode highlights:
[01:12] What led Tanya to opening the doors of the Sawubona Creativity Project
[05:30] How Tanya found the courage and the funding to manifest her vision
[11:02] Tanya’s struggle to make time for her own creativity – and the importance of delegating
[17:15] Why Sawbuona prioritizes a family-oriented space
[20:23] Tanya’s relationship with the word “No” — it’s a complete sentence, but not a closed door
[22:08] Why it’s so important for women to raise their voices and ask ALL the questions
[27:23] Tanya’s one tip to rock it
____________________________________________Links from this episode:
Sawubona Creativity Project website: https://sawubonacreativityproject.org/
Sawubona Creativity Project Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawubonacreativity/
Tanya’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ts_morgan/
Tanya’s Website: https://tanyamorganactor.com/
Daddy Issues Improv Comedy: https://www.facebook.com/daddyissuesimprovcomedy/
Bartol Foundation: https://bartol.org/grants/meet-our-grantees/
Philly Young Playwrights: https://www.phillyyoungplaywrights.org/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Multi-hyphenate rockstars, this one’s for you! Kim Maroon is a photographer, director, and designer who specializes in capturing the vibrancy of motorcycle culture.
After falling in love with the frenetic energy of photographing punk and metal bands, Kim discovered the thrill of motorcycling and launched an entrepreneurial creative path “rooted in adrenaline, rebellious spirit, community, and the human experience” (as she eloquently puts it).
On this episode, you’ll hear about how Kim transitioned from a life of science to one of art and design; how she balances her many creative roles (including commercial work for major brands like Infiniti Motor Company, GoPro, and iHeartMedia); and what really revs her creative engine.
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Episode highlights:
[1:29] How Kim launched her creative entrepreneurial journey
[4:05] The bold moves that brought Kim into the world of motorcycles — as a photographer, then as a rider
[11:48] How photography became a creative outlet and an avenue for connection
[12:50] How the many aspects of Kim’s multifaceted creative career fit together
[21:50] Kim’s one tip to rock it
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Links from this episode:Kim Maroon: https://www.kimberlymaroon.com/
Kim Maroon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kmaroonfoto/
Babes Ride Out: https://www.babesrideout.com/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Cassandra Burnett is a true renaissance woman and a shining example of courageous entrepreneurship in action. An attorney by day, as well as a wife and mom, Cassandra has created space for her entrepreneurial spirit to blossom.
In 2020, she launched Lizzie’s Love Cakes to honor the legacy of her mother, who passed away in 2012.
Then, in 2021, Cassandra launched the Hey Girl! Conference, an empowering opportunity for connection and inspiration, designed for women to voice their desires, dreams, successes, and challenges.
On this episode, you’ll hear about Cassandra’s journey of launching (and juggling) these incredible businesses, and the lessons she’s learned along the way!
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Episode highlights:[00:00] Meet the Courageous Cassandra Burnett
[03:47] How Cassandra’s different roles converge into a fulfilling life and career
[09:45] Behind the birth of Lizzie’s Love Cakes, Cassandra’s “love letter” to her late mother
[16:30] How “sister angel friends” led Cassandra to launch the Hey Girl! Conference
[21:17] Lessons from Cassandra’s mom, Lizzie, on overcoming doubt and "what if’s"
[26:15] Reflecting on grief and gratitude in the wake of maternal loss
[31:37] Why prioritizing rest is an essential ingredient to success
[35:35] Cassandra’s one tip to rock it
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Links from this episode:Lizzie’s Love Cakes: https://lizzieslovecakes.com/
Lizzie’s Love Cakes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizzieslovecakes/
Hey Girl! Conference: https://heygirlconference.com/
Hey Girl! Conference Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heygirlconference/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Curious about launching your entrepreneurial journey with a business partner?
Tune into this candid conversation with Tami Astorino and Rachel Rubin, the co-CEOs of Rise Gatherings – offering retreat experiences that invite women to connect with nature, with themselves, and with one another. In this honest and heartfelt episode, you’ll learn about Tami and Rachel’s journey to launching Rise (including the fateful business “blind date” that started their partnership), and how they leverage their yin-yang personality types to create a stronger whole.
You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes window into their beloved Rise Gatherings Weekend Getaway, which over the past several years has drawn hundreds of women to the Pocono Mountains for a transformative and restorative experience.
(PSST: She Rocked It’s own Karen Gross is a Weekend Getaway workshop facilitator this year!) You’ll surely be inspired by Tami and Rachel’s courageous journey, their dedication to uplifting women, and the alchemy of their collaboration.
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Episode highlights:[03:28] How a well-timed introduction launched Tami and Rachel’s business partnership
[08:53] How the vision for Rise Gatherings came to life
[13:08] A glimpse into Rise Gatherings’ diverse community of women
[16:33] Why Tami and Rachel’s partnership works – and tips you can use for your own collabs
[24:18] How Tami and Rachel found the courage to launch Rise Gatherings
[28:30] Tami and Rachel’s tips to rock it
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Links from this episode:Rise Gatherings: https://www.risegatherings.com/
Rachel Rubin on the Athleta x She Rocked It podcast: How to Balance Career & Self-Care: https://sherockedit.com/athleta-x-she-rocked-it-how-to-balance-career-self-care/
Rise Gatherings on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risegatherings/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
In this fascinating episode, you’ll meet Danielle Massi a.k.a. The Shadow Queen – who is building a growing empire as a best-selling author and thought-leader, CEO of The Wellness Collective, and founder of the annual SELF(ish) Philly Conference.
After a cervical cancer diagnosis before her 30th birthday, Danielle transformed her life and career, and has become a leading voice on the topic of shadow work and holistic health. Tune in to learn more about shadow work straight from Danielle, and to hear how she redirected her entrepreneurial path to become an advocate for women’s well-being. Plus, get a glimpse into Danielle’s own daily rituals, and how she balances business and motherhood with unapologetic self-care.
Disclaimer: The views expressed by podcast guests are their own. The She Rocked It podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.
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Episode highlights:[01:13] How a cancer diagnosis changed Danielle’s career and life path
[01:56] How “Shadow Work” works
[07:33] How Danielle found the confidence to become an advocate for Shadow Work
[21:22] Why women need to be more selfish
[24:10] Danielle’s daily routine (spoiler: baths, ahoy!)
[29:41] Danielle’s one tip to rock it
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Links from this episode:Danielle Massi website: https://www.iamdaniellemassi.com/
Danielle Massi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdaniellemassi/
The Wellness Collective: www.wellnessphl.com
SELF(ish) Philly Conference: https://www.selfishphilly.com/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Kate Marlys launched Philly PR Girl as a blog – and today, she is running one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable PR firms, specializing in elevating non-profits and purpose-driven brands.
As Kate celebrates 10 years in business, she spoke with She Rocked It to share the real story of becoming an entrepreneur (including one case of cold feet), and how she now grows her team and her client roster without burning herself out.
No matter what your own calling might be, you’ll surely be inspired by Kate’s journey of courageous entrepreneurship and how she continues to rock it on her own terms.
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Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Introduction
[01:10] How Kate Marlys launched Philly PR Girl – despite one “false start”
[05:27] Why Kate made the bold career pivot from running nonprofits to running her own PR firm – without a PR background
[12:18] How boundaries keep Kate feeling balanced
[15:12] Highlights from the first decade of Philly PR Girl
[19:04] The importance of supportive women to Kate’s success
[21:18] Kate’s one tip to rock it
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Links from this episode:**Philly PR Girl website: https://phillyprgirl.com/
Philly PR Girl on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philly_pr_girl/
Kate Marlys Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katemarlys/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Welcome to the fourth episode of our Real Talk with Women in the Music Industry podcast series, recorded live with a studio audience at Lakehouse Recording Studios in Asbury Park, NJ!
In this eye-opening and empowering episode, you’ll hear inspiring wisdom and lots of behind-the-scenes #realtalk from Ash Hill and Jenna Gaudio, two women who are blazing a trail and rocking it in the (still!) male-dominated music industry.
According to the most recent USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative study, entitled Inclusion in the Recording Studio?, women are still woefully underrepresented across the music industry and in the recording studio space. For instance, this study showed that just 2.8% of all producers were women while 97.1% were men.
Ash Hill is the recording studio manager at Lakehouse Recording Studios in Asbury Park, NJ – our awesome host for today’s episode.
Jenna Gaudio is co-president of the recently-acquired company Vydia, an all-in-one platform that empowers independent labels and artists.
You’ll also hear from Rashida Scott-Cruz, Professor of Music Industry, who originally connected She Rocked It with Lakehouse – and who is inspiring the next generation of music industry rockstars as a professor and mentor at Monmouth University.
Special thanks to the team at Lakehouse Recording Studios including Ash Hill, Evan Rudenjak, Ben Marino, Juan O’Grady, and Jon Leidersdorff, for hosting She Rocked It and recording the audio and video of this conversation: https://www.lakehouserecordingstudios.com/
Links from this episode:
- Lakehouse Recording Studios: https://www.lakehouserecordingstudios.com/
- Vydia: https://vydia.com/
- Annenberg Inclusion Initiative study: https://www.newsroom.spotify.com/2022-03-31/usc-annenbergs-inclusion-in-the-recording-studio-study-finds-that-more-work-toward-gender-equity-is-needed/
- She Rocked It’s Real Talk with Women in the Music Industry Episode 2 ft. Rashida Scott-Cruz: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ntmmz8K__oE&list=PL9M_v70pNx6ELQri31KdJOC-VTN-yVmoW
- Lakehouse Live!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfR6asxaLKk&list=PLyhNGayUn39KrGGnJPqVfHu29kfNkPovE
- Rebel Supply Co.: https://rebelsupplyap.com/
- Zumiez: https://www.zumiez.com/
- Jersey Shore Women in Tech: https://www.jerseyshorewomenintech.com/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
In the third installment of our Real Talk with Women in the Music Industry series, you’ll hear from Michelle Arkuski, Executive Director of She Is The Music—a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing the number of women working in music, which was launched by Alicia Keys among other music industry powerhouses. In this eye-opening and inspiring conversation, Michelle shares how and why she pivoted from her early musical theater days in New York City to high-profile philanthropic work in Los Angeles. As the first executive director of She Is The Music, Michelle now spearheads programs including an all-women songwriting series, an industry database of women creators, and awesome mentorship opportunities. The organization took shape after the devastating results of USC Annenberg’s Inclusion Initiative study revealed that women were conspicuously absent from music industry roles. And though important strides are being made, the results of the latest study (published in January 2023) still left much to be desired:
- Percentage of women across three creative roles: 22.3% of artists; 12.8% of songwriters; 2.8% of producers
- 13.9% of GRAMMY® nominees from 2013-2023 were women; 86% were men
- 13 out of 1,756 producing credits went to women of color
- The top male writer (Drake) has 49 songwriting credits; the top woman writer (Nicki Minaj) has 20 credits across 1,100 popular songs from 2012-2022
Episode highlights:
- [00:00] How She Is The Music serves its mission through action
- [04:53] Michelle’s journey from musical theater to celebrity-driven philanthropy
- [08:28] Overcoming imposter syndrome to take on the role of Executive Director at She Is The Music
- [12:42] The state of the industry now and looking ahead in the wake of #MeToo
- [20:32] What gave Michelle the courage to follow her intuition?
- [25:02] How Michelle keeps her cool working with big-name celebrities like Alicia Keys, Cyndi Lauper, and Linda Perry
- [29:23] How Michelle prioritizes self-care inside a demanding schedule
- [33:37] Michelle Arkuski’s ONE TIP TO ROCK IT
Links from this episode:She Is The Music: https://sheisthemusic.org/
USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative: https://annenberg.usc.edu/research/aii
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
In part two of our series on Real Talk with Women in the Music Industry, peek behind the curtain with women rockstars playing crucial roles off-stage. There’s still an astonishing lack of representation of women in the music industry, and these trailblazers don’t hold back on the #realtalk about what it’s been like to navigate careers of their own design. You’ll hear from:
- Mona Kayhan, co-owner of The Bridge recording studio in Brooklyn (our wonderful hosts for this conversation!)
- Rashida Scott-Cruz, Professor of Music Industry at Monmouth University
- Teng Chen, freelance audio engineer (SNL, The Grammys, Spelling Bee) and engineer for the She Rocked It podcast
- Stephanie Mayers, owner of Mayers Consulting PR firm which represents GRAMMY-winning artists in family entertainment
Special thanks to Mona Kayhan and the team from The Bridge recording studio including Urosh Jovanovich and Brianna Cofield. https://www.bridgerecordingstudio.com/
Thanks to Fifth Hammer Brewing for supplying libations at our recording session. https://www.fifthhammerbrewing.com/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Episode highlights:
- [00:00] Learn how our panelists established their careers in the music industry
- [21:22] Hear what gave each panelist the courage to dive wholeheartedly into the music business, versus viewing music as a hobby or side gig
- [31:39] Get a glimpse into recent changes in the climate for women in the music industry
- [44:02] What can we do to make the music industry more welcoming for all?
- [47:56] Mona Kayhan, Stephanie Mayers, Teng Chen and Rashida Scott-Cruz each share their ONE TIP TO ROCK IT
Links from this episode:
- The Bridge: https://www.bridgerecordingstudio.com/
- She Is The Music and data about women in the music industry: https://sheisthemusic.org/
- Mayers Consulting: http://www.mayersconsulting.com/
- Dan Zanes: https://danandclaudia.com/
- Blue Hawk Records at Monmouth University: http://www.bluehawkrecords.com/
- Monmouth University named by Billboard as a top music biz school
- Teng Chen: https://www.tengchenaudio.com/
- Teng Chen season 1 podcast episode: https://sherockedit.com/teng-chen/
- Power station recording studio: https://powerstation.nyc/
- “The War of Art”: https://blackirishbooks.com/product/the-war-of-art/
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Welcome to the third season of the She Rocked It podcast, and our first-ever interview with three generations of rockstar women from the same family! In this intimate and inspiring conversation (recorded in January 2023 at The Bridge recording studio in Brooklyn, New York), you’ll hear #realtalk about being a woman in the music industry and pursuing a creative, courageous life – straight from powerhouse mother-daughter duo Kim Kalesti and Emily King (plus a special appearance from the family’s 88-year-old matriarch, Maggie Haley).
Kim Kalesti is a modern-day renaissance woman who exemplifies the creative life as a singer, songwriter, recording artist, pianist, and painter. After 15 years as an in-demand jazz chanteuse–performing and recording alongside many of New York City’s jazz masters–she went on to release several piano/vocal albums of her poignant original songs. Both her daughter Emily King and son AC Lincoln have followed in her footsteps to become performing artists.
Emily King has released several critically acclaimed albums and received Grammy nominations for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance. She has toured with the likes of Alicia Keys, Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu, and Sara Bareilles. After dropping out of high school to pursue music, she was discovered by Clive Davis, who signed her to his J Records label at the age of 21. Now signed to ATO Records, she plans to release her latest album Special Occasion in May 2023.
Special thanks to Mona Kayhan and team from The Bridge recording studio including Urosh Jovanovich and Brianna Cofield. https://www.bridgerecordingstudio.com/
Thanks to Fifth Hammer Brewing for supplying libations at our recording session. https://www.fifthhammerbrewing.com/
Episode highlights:
- [00:00] Meet mother-daughter creative powerhouses Kim Kalesti and Emily King
- [04:08] What gave Kim the courage to forge an artistic path?
- [09:24 How Emily knew she wanted to drop out of high school to pursue music, and how her mom Kim reacted
- [15:37] How Emily learned not to compromise her own creative vision
- [21:00] How Kim cultivated her musical style over many years working with numerous collaborators (including George Clinton!)
- [26:09] Emily and Kim reveal their creative processes
- [33:21] Grandma Maggie Haley enters the chat
- [40:41] Maggie, Kim, and Emily each share their ONE TIP TO ROCK IT
Links from this episode:
- Emily King website
- Emily King’s song Distance
- Emily King’s song This Year
- Emily King shares an early version of This Year on Instagram
- Kim Kalesti paintings
- Kim Kalesti bandcamp
- AC Lincoln website
- Karen Gross website
If you’d like to be part of the studio audience for future podcast recordings, head over to sherockedit.com to become a member of our Rockstar Network membership community: https://sherockedit.com/the-rockstar-network
Joan Hendricks has blazed a trail in the field of veterinary medicine – starting from when only a small “quota” of women were allowed into vet school, and ultimately serving as the first woman dean of the distinguished School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. In this candid and heartfelt conversation, Joan shares how she got the courage to lead despite the obstacles in her path, including self-sabotage. And she reveals how anger has fueled her passion and drive – inviting us all to consider how we can harness the power of anger as a superpower. Now retired, Joan also reminds us of the importance of seeking joy and rocking our own unique brand of weird. Do not miss this empowering, eye-opening, and often funny interview with a true pioneer!
In this episode you’ll hear:
- [3:15] Quotas, “tokes,” and Title IX: When women weren’t welcome in veterinary medicine
- [7:24] On being an “army brat” and crucial fatherly support
- [11:20] Constructive rage and the catalyzing power of being underestimated
- [13:46] How allies helped amplify Joan’s voice
- [16:45] Why Joan initially avoided becoming the first woman dean at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
- [23:40] Why women are dominating veterinary medicine today
- [27:32] Balancing family and career with the help of a supportive partner
- [29:34] Making a “joy list”
- [32:29] Joan’s one tip to rock it
Links from this episode:
- Penn Vet: https://www.vet.upenn.edu/
- Penn Vet’s Bellwether magazine issue honoring Dean Joan Hendricks: https://www.vet.upenn.edu/about/news-room/bellwether/bellwether-magazine/bellwether-spring-2018
- Penn Vet’s Bellwether magazine article focused on trailblazing women veterinarians: https://www.vet.upenn.edu/about/news-room/bellwether/bellwether-magazine/bellwether-winter-2015/penn-vet-pioneers
- Info about Title IX: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Title_IX
- The Nobel Prize-winning scientists Joan worked with: https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/medicine/2017/press-release/
She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
- Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
- Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
- Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
- Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Michelle Zara Evans has transformed her passion for fashion into a successful career as an e-commerce and merchandising executive – working her magic at the likes of Tiffany & Co., Gilt, and Bespoke Post. Along her path, she’s been focused on supporting and connecting with other women and women-owned brands. In this empowering interview, Michelle discusses her pivot from jewelry design entrepreneur to high-powered exec, and reveals how saying no, following her gut, and going after her big dreams continue to pay off. She also reminds us how women elevating women helps us ALL reach greater heights.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- [2:29] The evolution of Michelle’s career in fashion
- [5:16] How Michelle discovered the power of networking during her career change
- [10:51] Michelle’s advice for a successful creative career
- [13:13] The importance of saying “No”
- [16:36] How working with Paloma Picasso influenced Michelle
- [18:07] Michelle’s Tip to Rock It
Links from this episode:
- Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellezaraevans
- Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-zara-evans-305bb21/
- Shop Elia Fulman: https://eliafulmen.com/
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She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Nikia Phoenix is a courageous, multi-talented creative known for celebrating self-love as a meditation guide, model, and creator of the Black Girl Beautiful initiative. Enjoy this 8-minute meditation from Nikia, and be sure to check out her full She Rocked It podcast episode.
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She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Mark Bryan has been seen on the pages of Vogue and Interview magazine and has over 650,000 followers on Instagram, where he describes himself as a straight, cis man who loves wearing heels and skirts daily. In this revealing interview – our first with a man – Mark unpacks how he developed his rockstar sense of style and why he chooses to upend traditional expectations of men’s and women’s fashion, even in the workplace. The conversation raises meaningful questions about gender, sexuality, safety, and how expressing your most creative self can inspire others, too. Tune in to find out how Mark rocks it in stilettos and shows up with unapologetic confidence.
In this episode, you'll hear...
[2:14] How Mark developed his sense of style – and how he loves the confidence of wearing stilettos
[3:58] How Mark rose to fame as an influencer
[5:50] Why Mark doesn’t worry about what others think
[12:47] Why Mark thinks wearing skirts and heels has nothing to do with gender or sexual orientation
[15:34] How Mark feels about being called sexy
[19:15] Why Mark looked to Meghan Markle and Harry Styles for fashion inspiration
[26:16] Mark’s One Tip To Rock It
Links from this episode:
- More from Mark Bryan: https://www.instagram.com/markbryan911/?hl=en
- Mark Bryan in Interview magazine: https://www.interviewmagazine.com/fashion/can-you-walk-a-mile-in-mark-bryans-louboutins
- Here's a resource from the ACLU on supporting all people's right to be themselves:
https://www.aclu.org/issues/lgbtq-rights/transgender-rights/three-ways-be-informed-advocate-transgender-people
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She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
- Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
- Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
- Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
- Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Rockstar energy – you know it when you see it. And Tina Kerekes just HAS IT. A walking magnet for music and art, and well-known for her rockstar sense of style, Tina is dedicated to following her own artistic path and mentoring other creatives along the way. She’s an artist, designer, one-time owner of a skate shop, and she even styled the music video for Khia’s iconic anthem “My Neck, My Back.” For the past several years, Tina has been the manager and curator of the Transparent Clinch Gallery in Asbury Park, NJ, where she’s cultivated a nurturing space for the community with a vibe best described as part gallery, part music venue, and part local living room. ️Transparent Clinch Gallery features photography, books, and more by Danny Clinch – one of the music world’s premier photographers and music video directors who has captured a wide range of artists, from Björk to Bruce Springsteen.
No doubt you’ll be inspired by Tina’s own rockstar energy, and how she continues to rock an artistic path. Tune in to get the inside story!
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[2:25] Tina's chance encounter with rock'n'roll photography legend Danny Clinch
[5:45] The importance of community to Tina's artistic practice
[7:40] Tina on her rockstar style
[8:39] What does it mean to have "rockstar energy"?
[11:10] Tina's work as a stylist
[13:41] Proving people wrong who want to obstruct the artistic path
[15:41] How Karen and Tina first met...in 1997
[17:00] Being ahead of the curve on body positivity
[18:50] The importance of mentoring up-and-coming artists
[21:40] Tina’s One Tip to Rock It
Links from this episode:
- Tina Kerekes: https://www.instagram.com/tinakerekes/?hl=en
- Transparent Clinch Gallery: https://www.transparentclinchgallery.com/
- Danny Clinch: https://www.instagram.com/dannybones64/?hl=en
- Danny Clinch, Still Moving book: https://bookshop.org/books/danny-clinch-still-moving/9781419708701
- Dentist: https://www.dentistband.com/
- Khia’s “My Neck, My Back” music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5T6Fnwbtzp8
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She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
- Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
- Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
- Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
- Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Dr. Robin Smith has raised her voice and rocked it as a New York Times bestselling author, the on-air therapist-in-residence on The Oprah Winfrey Show, and currently as an in-demand speaker and the host of The Dr. Robin Show on SiriusXM. In this revealing and wisdom-packed episode, Dr. Robin shares why she’s careful about who she allows “in her ear and in her sphere” – and why an empowering community is essential to rocking it! She also reminds all of us how adversity can be transformed into purpose and power, and how persistence, patience, and self-compassion are crucial on the path to our biggest dreams.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[2:47] Dr. Robin’s prescription for transforming adversity into purpose and power
[6:23] How Karen and Dr. Robin connected and how they collaborate
[12:32] The importance of who’s in your ear and in your sphere
[15:55] The patience and persistence required on Dr. Robin’s path to becoming an on-air TV personality
[22:35] Letting go of the “exhausted woman” card and embracing self-care to show up fully
[27:15] Dr. Robin’s 2-part Tip to Rock It
Links from this episode:
- Dr. Robin Smith: https://www.drrobinsmith.com/
- Karen Gross: https://www.karengross.com/
- Gabrielle Sellei: https://selleilaw.com/gabrielle-sellei
- Tune into The Dr. Robin Show on SiriusXM Urban View: https://www.siriusxm.com/channels/siriusxm-urban-view
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She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
- Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
- Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
- Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
- Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Do you show up for others before you show up for YOU? In this inspiring episode, you’ll hear from Nikia Phoenix on why self-care is essential to rocking it. Nikia is a courageous, multitalented creative known for celebrating self-love as a meditation guide, model, and creator of the Black Girl Beautiful initiative. If you follow her on Instagram, subscribe to her emails, or enjoy her guided meditations, you know that the energy she puts into the world is truly a breath of fresh air. Tune in as Nikia reveals the reasons she came to embrace self-care, why she’s empowered by the rockstar women in her family, and how you can learn to put yourself first.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[02:20] How Nikia discovered the importance of self-care while struggling with depression
[07:59] How Nikia finds balance as a social media personality
[09:57] Why it’s important for women to tap into the sacral chakra
[12:45] The Black Girl Beautiful mural and movement, and how Nikia’s experiences modeling led her to start it
[18:50] What gives Nikia Phoenix confidence? Why she’s inspired by her family
[21:50] What is reiki? Exploring energy healing
[23:26] How Nikia rocks a multi-hyphenate creative career
[26:50] Nikia’s One Tip to Rock It
Links from this episode:
Nikia’s website https://nikiaphoenix.com/
Nikia’s Instagram @nikiaphoenix or https://www.instagram.com/nikiaphoenix/?hl=en
Nikia’s meditations https://nikiaphoenix.com/meditate
Black Girl Beautiful https://www.blackgirlbeautiful.com/
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She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Ready to rock it, but don’t know where to start? Turn on this episode for a jolt of inspiration right now! In this solo episode, She Rocked It founder and host Karen Gross shares the ROCK IT Roadmap – a series of six top tips for a creative, courageous life and career. These empowering lessons are drawn from Karen’s decade of experience as a successful creative entrepreneur, her many She Rocked It interviews, and her time as a speechwriter and journalist writing for and about trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs. This is the kind of roadmap you’ll want to hang on your fridge as a reminder to rock it every day (head to our website to print it out)! Let’s all rock it – together.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[00:58] Introducing the Rock-It Roadmap and She Rocked It host and founder, Karen Gross
[3:39] “R” = Raise your voice
[6:15] “O” = Own your value
[10:01] “C” = Commit to your creativity
[14:08] “K” = Kick out your inner critic
[19:12] “I” = Imagine and Implement
[24:22] “T” = Tribe vibes
[27:59] Roadmap recap and how to rock some empowering apparel
Links from the episode:
Learn more about Karen at karengross.com
Keep up with Karen on Instagram @communicationthatsings
Mary Jelkovsky's episode: https://youtu.be/5Eod2yMzm9k
Divinity Roxx's episode: https://youtu.be/H7Wt9HbLkoA
Mallory (MJ) Hank Johnson's episode: https://youtu.be/qOTnETVxAAY
Ashley Berke's episode: https://youtu.be/Cgrslv6VXxM
Jennifer Blaine's episode: https://youtu.be/Tf_D2GGVeB8
Learn more about the Rock-It Launcher group mentorship program for creative, courageous women at https://sherockedit.com/rock-it-launcher
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She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
Why are so many women opening businesses in Philadelphia’s East Passyunk Avenue neighborhood? And what can we all learn from these rockstar women entrepreneurs? Tune into this episode to hear what went down at She Rocked It’s first-ever live panel discussion and networking event, held in partnership with the East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District during Women’s History Month 2022. Get ready for lots of real talk, inspiring stories, and actionable tips to rock it! Whether you’re looking to start a business, level up your business, or just need a jolt of inspiration from some truly courageous women – this episode has it all.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[03:13] The lowdown on East Passyunk Avenue’s many women-owned businesses
[05:43] Dr. Robin Smith on transforming adversity into purpose and power
[10:29] Introductions from women entrepreneurs
[17:40] Why women opened businesses on East Passyunk Avenue in Philadelphia
[22:35] How women entrepreneurs overcame challenges in their businesses
[24:41] Why is entrepreneurship worth it for women business owners?
[30:47] Q&A 1 What these women business owners wish they knew when they first started out
[36:56] Q&A 2 What keeps these entrepreneurs motivated
Links from this episode:
Chef Jennifer Zavala, Juana Tamale https://juana-tamale.square.site/
Cara Stipa, The Utopia Collective https://theutopiacollective.com/
Elissa Kara, Nice Things Handmade https://www.instagram.com/nicethingsphila/?hl=en
Shana Heidorn, Society Hill Dance Academy https://societyhilldance.com/
Karen Gross, https://karengross.com/
East Passyunk Avenue: http://www.visiteastpassyunk.com/
She Rocked It is a media and mentorship platform where creative, courageous women rock it together. We are eager to learn from, listen to, and lift one another up — driven by the belief that women’s voices are essential. On our podcast and Instagram Live interview series, She Rocked It host/founder and creative entrepreneur Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rockstar in all of us!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
Join our community at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram @sherockedit
Download our FREE guide “SECRETS TO ROCKING IT”
Ready to transform your creativity into a career that rocks? Check out our group mentorship program, Rock-It Launcher!
For the final episode of our first season, we are thrilled to share an uplifting message of hope by way of the acclaimed children’s musician and singer-songwriter Sonia De Los Santos. Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, Sonia moved to New York City with the dream of becoming a singer; within a few years, she was touring the world with Grammy Award-winning group Dan Zanes And Friends. In 2019, Sonia was nominated for a Latin Grammy for her family music album, ¡Alegría!. Her recent release, Esperanza, is a bilingual collection of vibrant, all-ages songs that explore hope, joy, community, togetherness, curiosity and celebration, written during a time of great change in all of our lives. In this heartfelt and candid interview, Sonia shares the behind-the-scenes stories of following her dream to the Big Apple; how a community of women supports her success; and how she transformed a hateful comment into the deeply personal song “This Land Is Also Mine.” And, after years of performing with her band in renowned venues and festivals (Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, and more), she shares how she has pivoted to rocking it right at home. BONUS: Check our YouTube channel (link below) for Sonia’s She Rocked It exclusive live performance of Esperanza.
Links from the episode:
Sonia De Los Santos website: https://www.soniadelossantosmusic.com/
She Rocked It EXCLUSIVE live performance of Esperanza: https://youtu.be/WkBDXJTb_I0
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women at www.sherockedit.com
Dig this episode? Please subscribe to the podcast and share a review!
And be sure to join the conversation on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon believes in following a “path of purpose,” and hers has led to multiple GRAMMY® Award nominations and performances at The Kennedy Center and The White House among other prestigious venues. Her path took a very different turn after the loss of her soulmate and husband, renowned architect Phil Freelon, which prompted her to question everything she thought she knew about living, dying, faith, healing, and her art. Nnenna’s experiences led her to a new journey, down the path of grief. Today, she’s sharing her voice once again through a heartfelt new album (Time Traveler) and a powerful, poignant podcast (Great Grief with Nnenna Freelon). In this honest, inspiring, and deeply moving conversation, Nnenna reveals how it has felt to rediscover and raise her voice anew, how she has balanced the life of a performing artist and mother, and why it’s crucial to define your own vision of success.
Links from the episode:
Nnenna Freelon website: https://www.nnenna.com/
Great Grief with Nnenna Freelon podcast: https://www.wunc.org/podcast/great-grief
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women at www.sherockedit.com
Dig this episode? Please subscribe to the podcast and share a review!
And be sure to join the conversation on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Divinity Roxx has raised her voice -- and her bass -- as a Grammy-nominated recording artist, composer, and musician. She’s rocked it onstage alongside Beyoncé as her bassist and musical director, and has appeared on countless television shows including The Grammys, Saturday Night Live, and Good Morning America. Divinity’s career as a bass player skyrocketed after meeting the legendary bass virtuoso, Victor Wooten -- and in this revealing and rockin' interview, she shares (and sings) the song that first captured his attention! You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes stories about Divinity’s hip hop roots; how she abandoned journalism for a full-fledged music career; and why she’s now focusing her talents on children’s music. You’ll no doubt be inspired by Divinity’s courage, creativity, and pursuit of big, bold dreams -- and how she’s committed to spreading light wherever she goes. EPISODE BONUS: A live performance of her latest single, “Ready, Set, Go!”
Links from the episode:
www.diviroxxkids.com
youtube.com/diviroxxkids
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women at www.sherockedit.com
Dig this episode? Please subscribe to the podcast and share a review!
And be sure to join the conversation on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Looking to unleash more creativity in your life and career? Then this conversation with Jennifer Blaine is sure to rock your world! Jennifer is an in-demand, multihyphenate actor-comedian-solo performer-voiceover artist who has shared the stage with comedians Chris Rock and Joe Piscopo and worked with distinguished actors including Laura Linney, Joanne Woodward, and Paul Newman. For the past 25 years, she has performed original one-woman shows that delve into social issues and, as a theater teaching artist in her hometown of Philadelphia, she has also worked with youth to create original plays on issues from bullying to civil rights. In addition to performing, Jennifer is a member of the American Counseling Association and has coached hundreds of people worldwide toward actively creating what they want in their lives. In this heartfelt, insightful, funny, and thought-provoking chat, Jennifer reveals how she rocks a creative life -- and how you can, too.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:[4:08] The teacher who inspired Jennifer to raise her voice, and other sources of inspiration and courage
[6:54] Why Jennifer is willing to show up and stand in the unknown, and even fail onstage
[13:44] How Jennifer helps others bring forth their talents and follow what’s most exciting and heart-centered
[19:07] Why artists’ voices should be valued and financially rewarded
[20:54] The sexist (and incorrect) assumption that Jennifer’s husband supports her creative life
[24:00] The reason Jennifer feels compelled to share women’s stories in her work
[26:21] Jennifer’s one tip to rock it
Links from the episode:Jennifer Blaine (performer): http://www.jenniferblaine.com/
Jennifer Blaine (coaching): https://blainecoaching.com/
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Bethany Lyons is a star of the yoga and fitness world, regularly sharing her insights in publications including Vogue, W Magazine and The Wall Street Journal; appearing on the cover of Yoga Journal magazine; and working as a Founding Master Instructor at SoulCycle. A courageous entrepreneur at heart, she opened two Lyons Den Power Yoga studios in New York City, and then quickly pivoted to launching the virtual yoga platform Lyons Den Digital during lockdown. In this candid, heartfelt, and inspiring conversation, Bethany reveals how she overcomes fear and owns her inner boss, what it was like to dance with Madonna (yes, THE Madonna), and why putting in the work really is the ticket to rocking it.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[4:07] How Bethany always has fear, but overcomes it through taking action
[5:12] Why being dubbed a “bossy girl” is a good thing
[6:54] The powerful lessons Bethany learned from her mom
[8:37] Why Madonna has been her inspiration, and what it was like to work with her (!)
[11:18] The importance of women celebrating each other's successes (and failures)
[13:04] How Bethany pivoted to launching a digital yoga platform during lockdown
[17:20] Bethany’s one tip to rock it
Links from the episode:
Lyons Den Digital: https://www.lyonsdendigital.com/
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Ashley Berke has used her communications savvy to elevate the profiles of world-renowned institutions. Currently, as VP of communications for The Philadelphia Orchestra, she is responsible for sharing the music and stories of this iconic Orchestra in innovative, inclusive ways. Previously, at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine (a.k.a. Penn Vet), she worked closely with the School's first woman Dean; prior to that, she served for several years as director of public relations for the National Constitution Center, where she rubbed elbows with political leaders, pundits, and celebrities. She's held all of these high-stakes, high-pressure positions before age 40. In this empowering episode, Ashley shares the secrets of her "joyful" career -- including how she follows her passions, leaves self-doubt in the dust (thanks to Sylvia Plath), and finds the courage to raises her voice (sometimes as the only woman in the room). Tune in to hear how Ashley rocks it.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
[4:22] How allergies (!) changed the course of Ashley's career path at Cornell University
[4:45] How she aligned her career with her passions
[10:26] What empowers Ashley to raise her voice, sometimes as the only woman in the room
[12:16] The role of other women as champions and mentors
[19:02] How Ashley draws upon her woman's perspective at work
[24:00] Navigating work-life balance
[26:02] Ashley's one tip to rock it (which may involve a tattoo)
Links from the episode:
The Philadelphia Orchestra: https://www.philorch.org
Penn Vet: https://www.vet.upenn.edu
National Constitution Center: https://constitutioncenter.org
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at https://www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
On this special episode, SHE ROCKED IT founder and host Karen Gross shares the behind-the-scenes story of this new platform dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. A professional writer and singer for two decades, Karen Gross has a unique understanding of the power and impact of the voice. As a singer, she has performed everywhere from prestigious theaters, to HGTV, to intimate jazz and cabaret clubs. As a speechwriter and journalist, she has had the opportunity to write about and for some of the nation’s most influential women. Karen speaks to consulting producer Tori Marchiony about how the SHE ROCKED IT podcast and virtual community came to life during lockdown, and why it’s essential to elevate women’s voices going forward.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[1:56] Why the SHE ROCKED IT vision took shape during lockdown, and why Karen thinks women’s voices are essential to a healing, thriving world
[4:58] How Karen’s experience as a solopreneur writer, singer, and communications business owner informed her new direction
[8:53] The lightbulb moment of marrying the dual trajectories of writing and singing under the banner of “Communication that Sings”
[12:26] Why living an aligned, creatively fulfilling life doesn’t preclude financial abundance
[15:48] How it’s key to take leaps of faith and follow your intuition as an entrepreneur
[19:55] A behind-the-scenes “backstage pass” into the SHE ROCKED IT universe, including the podcast and Rockstar Network
[23:19] Karen’s one tip to ROCK IT (or really, two tips)
Links from the episode:Karen’s website: www.karengross.com
Karen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenstune
Karen on YouTube: www.youtube.com/karengrossmusic
SHE ROCKED IT website: www.sherockedit.com
SHE ROCKED IT on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our Rockstar Network of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Ever wondered what it takes to rock it as an Instagram influencer? Mallory Hank-Johnson (also known as MJ) shares how she became a social media star by courageously sharing her voice as a millennial mother and military wife. As an influencer, blogger, and entrepreneur, she’s now collaborated with over 100 brands including Coca-Cola, Costco, and Oreo. Through her podcast and online courses, MJ teaches others how to harness the power of social media -- so we can all raise our voices and live life on our own terms.
In this episode, you’ll hear:[3:11] How MJ’s mindset shift helped her move from a 9-to-5 to full-time entrepreneurship
[4:53] What it really means to be an “influencer”
[6:39] How MJ found her voice on social media
[7:51] How her IVF journey illuminated the power of an online community
[10:29] The evolution from influencer to educator
[12:53] Why people really connected with an honest blog post about Mother’s Day
[14:54] How inequalities among influencers inspired the launch of The Orange Collab with other female BIPOC entrepreneurs and content creators
[22:20] Juggling daily life as a working mom
[26:06] Building an empire and a legacy of generational wealth for her family
[29:14] MJ’s one tip to ROCK IT
Links from the episode:
MJ’s website: http://lifebymj.com/
MJ’s podcast A Life By You: https://lifebymj.com/category/podcast/
MJ on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifebymj/
The Orange Collab website: https://theorangecollab.com/
The Orange Collab on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com › theorangecollab
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Mary Jelkovsky of Mary’s Cup of Tea opens up about how she found the courage to raise her voice and rock it as an outspoken advocate for self-love and body confidence. After recovering from an eating disorder, Mary began sharing her self-love journey on her Instagram account @maryscupofteaa — which has nearly 300,000 followers to date. Mary is also a published author (The Gift of Self-Love, released in March 2021), a TEDx speaker, a popular podcast host, and an entrepreneur who runs retreats for women around the world. She exemplifies the power of one woman’s voice to uplift countless others. In this heartfelt and often hysterical episode, she reveals the real story behind her self-love revolution—and how she summons the strength to share her most vulnerable truths.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[2:30] How Mary overcame doubt and Imposter Syndrome to courageously share her story [8:00] Why her younger sister inspires her
[13:00] How showing up vulnerably on social media is vehicle for connection
[15:30] How she’s worked on communicating with confidence as a young woman, and how she prepared for her TED talk in the face of male detractors
[24:30] The behind-the-scenes story of securing her book deal
[26:00] Why “just ask” is her go-to mantra
[31:00] Mary’s one tip to ROCK IT
Links from the episode:
Mary’s website: https://maryscupoftea.com/
Mary’s Cup of Tea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryscupofteaa
Mary’s Cup of Tea podcast: https://maryscupoftea.com/blog/
The Gift of Self-Love book: https://maryscupoftea.com/gift-of-self-love
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Michelle Saahene’s life took a major turn in 2018, when she was one of the women responsible for the viral video of two Black men arrested in a Philadelphia Starbucks for not buying coffee. The incident inspired her to co-found From Privilege to Progress—a growing national movement to amplify Black voices, desegregate the public conversation about race, and inspire others to #showup against racism. More than 500,000 people now follow From Privilege to Progress on Instagram, and along with co-founder Melissa DePino, Michelle has spoken on Jada Pinkett Smith’s Red Table Talk, The Today Show, and NPR’s Radio Times among many other media outlets, major corporations, and universities. In this inspiring and intimate episode, Michelle reveals her secrets for creating a life driven by purpose and passion, and how she continues to rock it as a leading voice for racial justice.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[2:26] Why Michelle believes she manifested her life as an activist
[3:17] How she overcame overwhelming terror to raise her voice while witnessing racial discrimination in a Philadelphia Starbucks
[6:50] Michelle’s family legacy of leadership in Ghana
[7:36] Her experience as the only Black girl in her central Pennsylvania school
[11:23] Why the explosive growth of From Privilege to Progress gives her hope
[13:43] Her fateful “divine collaboration” with co-founder Melissa DePino
[16:10] How she and Melissa bring uniquely feminine energy to the anti-racism conversation—and why she doesn’t shy away from crying onstage
[20:57] What it was like sitting next to Jada Pinkett Smith onstage
[26:20] Michelle’s one tip to ROCK IT
Links from the episode:
Michelle’s website: https://michellesaahene.com/
Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellesaahene/
From Privilege to Progress website: https://fromprivilegetoprogress.org/
From Privilege to Progress on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/privtoprog/
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
From her hometown of Beijing, China, to the “live from New York” set of Saturday Night Live, Teng Chen continues to blaze a trail and rock it in the male-dominated field of audio engineering. Since earning a master’s degree at the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University, Teng has collaborated with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and The Philadelphia Orchestra, and worked on major events including the Super Bowl, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction, and the MTV Video Music Awards. And she’s also the audio supervisor and engineer for the SHE ROCKED IT podcast! You will no doubt be inspired by how Teng has followed her creative calling with passion and persistence.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
[2:15] How Teng held her own as one of very few women in her university music program and early engineering jobs
[05:24] Why she wanted to come to the U.S. to pursue a career in the entertainment industry
[13:51] A behind-the-scenes glimpse into Teng’s current job on Saturday Night Live (SNL)
[19:06] Why Teng is excited to elevate and amplify women’s voices as SHE ROCKED IT’s audio engineer
[20:42] The importance of being a mentor to young women
[25:47] Reflections on anti-Asian violence in NYC
[29:32] Teng’s one tip to ROCK IT
Links from the episode:
Teng’s website: https://www.tengchenaudio.com/
Teng on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tengfoodpanda
Saturday Night Live: https://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live
Join the SHE ROCKED IT Rockstar Network:
SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women’s voices. We believe that when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can ALL soar to greater heights. We invite you to join our ROCKSTAR NETWORK of creative, courageous women:
Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review
Sign up for our email list at www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sherockedit
Hey, rock star! Yeah, you! You've found the place you've been looking for. SHE ROCKED IT is a podcast and virtual community dedicated to raising the volume on women's voices. On this podcast, writer/singer Karen Gross gets trailblazing women leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs to reveal how they rock it – and their insights may surprise you. Karen pulls back the curtain on the lives of courageous women who are rocking it in various professional fields. Their behind-the-scenes stories, best-kept secrets to success, and actionable tips are sure to inspire the rock star in all of us! Ready to rock? Let’s go.
About the host: As a writer, singer, and speechwriter, Karen Gross brings a unique understanding of the power and impact of the voice. Over the past two decades, she’s had the chance to write about and for some of the nation’s most influential women. Now, on SHE ROCKED IT, she’s inviting others into these intimate and inspiring conversations. Because when women listen to, learn from, and lift one another up, we can all reach new heights.
Add your voice to the conversation:
Join our Rockstar Network at www.sherockedit.com
Join us on Instagram at @sherockedit