Next-Gen Advice

“There are times when being a woman in this business can feel unfair due to double standards, but don't let that shape how you navigate the industry or influence your reactions. My motto is 'Don't take it on.' By this, I don't mean ignoring what's happening, but rather, I choose not to dwell on it or sweat the small stuff. There are often much bigger issues in life, and someone somewhere is always facing a challenge. So try to give everyone a little bit of the grace you also will need at some point.

This isn't rocket science – it's music. So, don't take yourself too seriously. Change is inevitable, and while doing good work is essential (don’t half-ass it!), it shouldn’t define your entire life. Live LIFE well, experience people, places and things. Time is precious, you cannot get it back. Uplift other women by making space for them, breathe, and remember: 'Why not go out on a limb? Isn't that where the fruit is?”

Next-Gen Advice

“Keep learning, keep working and keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible. And, above all, have courage and be confident about who you are and what you bring to the table.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Two things:

1. Don't be an asshole, ever, no matter how tempting.

2. Look for the most interesting person in the room and strike up a conversation. Networking and relationship building are at the heart of every...single...opportunity you will ever have. Build your networks in an authentic, meaningful way.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Bet on yourself.” ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎

Next-Gen Advice

“The best advice I can give to other women in the music industry is to always believe in yourself and stay true to your values. Understanding what’s most important to you will guide you through difficult decisions and help you make choices that bring you genuine happiness. This industry is relentless, constantly demanding more – more music, more time, more energy.

It’s easy to lose yourself in the pursuit of success. But when you’re anchored in who you are and what you want, you’ll navigate your career with confidence and pride. Surround yourself with people who share these values and bring you joy. These are the individuals who will uplift and inspire you. Remember, competition is a product of capitalism, but in reality, when one of us succeeds, we all flourish together.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Lean into the stuff that makes you uncomfortable. For me, early on, it was the numbers. I adopted an internal narrative that because I didn’t excel in ‘math’ as a student, I wasn’t as capable as others. It’s funny how that stuff can stick. I surrounded myself with people I could learn from and once I put the time in, running a P&L became something I enjoy the most about my job. That and a career, in my experience, is not linear. I have accelerated, paused, and taken steps ‘back’. Sometimes it was because different parts of my life were the priority and sometimes it was just the ebb and flow of opportunity. Stick with it, keep going.”

Next-Gen Advice

“There is room for SO many more women! Advocate for other women, build a strong and supportive network of women, be the person you would want in your corner! And, never hesitate to ask for, and go after, what you want.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Your opinions and ideas are always worthy! I never backed away from speaking my mind or asking tough questions, even in rooms full of powerful people, and that always helped me feel like I belonged right along with them. You can create real change, so own your power, stand firm in what you believe in, and be confident in what you bring to the table!”

Next-Gen Advice

“Trust your gut. Speak your truth. Be authentic. Always give your honest opinion even if it's not the popular opinion.”

Next-Gen Advice

“By now, a lot of us know the fundamentals of how to showcase our expertise online, and that’s a powerful tool. But you need to figure out how to bring your whole self IRL too – there is an art to speaking confidently about your skills in a room full of people you may not know, and it’s more important than ever. This goes for whether you’re an artist, manager, producer, or even an engineer: you never know who’s in the room looking for someone exactly like you. Bringing your energy and passion when speaking about what you can do is too important to leave only for your online presence. Practice it often. It’s a skill that has opened a lot of doors for me, and given me so many opportunities.”

Next-Gen Advice

“In my experience, the best leaders balance tenacity and softness in their approach to the music business. You can effectively stand strong in your convictions, while exhibiting kindness towards others. You can say what you mean, while maintaining empathy and a sense of humour about it all.

And at the end of the day, when this business feels complex and thorny, remember why you got into it. There’s a good chance we all got into it for the same reason: we love music and we love sharing music with others. My favourite people to work with have never lost their passion around sharing a great song. Continue nurturing your excitement for the work. We aren't doing brain surgery here, but you could be part of the reason that some beautiful music reaches as many people as possible – and that’s a very worthwhile contribution, in my books.”

Next-Gen Advice

“To all the incredible women in the music industry: your strength lies not only in your talent but in your ability to support one another and rise above challenges. Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to have a strong network of women who uplift and support me through candid conversations, shared experiences and invaluable introductions. Building these relationships and planting seeds within our industry is key to growth and success.

As women, we face unique challenges, including navigating power dynamics and overcoming obstacles that sometimes feel insurmountable. But resilience is about continuing to move forward, even in the face of adversity. Remember that every small step, every day, with integrity and intention, creates lasting impact. I believe that when we support each other, we’re unstoppable. Through collaboration, mentorship, and the creation of opportunities, we build bridges that will help us all thrive. Success isn’t a final destination; it’s an ongoing journey. Together, we have the power to shape the future of this industry.”

Next-Gen Advice

“As I reflect on the last 17 years of building Reservoir and the years leading up to it in my personal journey, a recurring theme for me is contradiction. I think this is a common experience for women. We so often face mixed messages and clashing expectations. I encourage women in the industry to recognize where they encounter these contradictions in their lives and pivot to a path that allows for their growth equally across their professional and personal lives. You should not have to compromise, but rather be empowered to find the route that allows for the multitudes present in you.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Assertively chase mentors – they can be your lifeline. Any piece of advice towards entrepreneurship, taxes, being a working parent, childcare, ask it all. Don't be afraid to hunt for your tribe!”

Next-Gen Advice

“Remember your worth and remind others of theirs. Most of the women I know in the industry (and life) work really, really hard and are handling so many roles in their daily life. They are always multitasking and moving at a fast pace to succeed without having time to share and celebrate their accomplishments. Women I look up to are generally humble about what they do, but we can all do a better job about singing our own praises and making sure that we acknowledge and lift each other’s successes up. Women are the glue of this industry, and it shouldn’t be kept a secret.

My advice for women starting out is always work hard at your job, learn what everyone does, ask a ton of questions, admit when you are wrong, say sorry when you need to, say thanks to everyone, tell others they are amazing when they are and never forget that you are helping to shape someone’s life dreams. Artists come in all shapes and sizes but they almost all have the same dream, which is for their music to be shared with as many people as possible. You get to play a role in dream making and that is special. I am so proud to have worked with so many artists that have impacted lives in so many positive ways with their gifts. I try to never forget that blessing in my day-to-day interactions or when I’m in the grind. Lastly, take time for yourself, for fun, for family, friends and crank up the tunes whenever you have a rough day and let music heal you.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Focus on the things that are in your control: your work ethic, your integrity, the relationships you invest in, resiliency when faced with a challenge. We will all have different challenges to overcome throughout our careers. It’s up to you how you face those challenges and grow from them.”

Next-Gen Advice

“One of the most valuable lessons you can learn is the ability to be comfortable with the unknown. Walking into unfamiliar situations, like a room full of strangers, and holding your head just as high as you would in a room full of family and friends, is a powerful skill. It shows confidence, resilience, and a deep belief in your own worth. These moments, which may feel awkward or intimidating at first, are often the very moments that lead to personal and professional growth and are incredibly rewarding in the long run. Being comfortable with discomfort also teaches humility. It reminds you that growth, particularly in the music industry, is a continuous journey of learning and re-inventing, not always the destination.”

Next-Gen Advice

“I would like to encourage everyone to give your time back to your community. I love the opportunity to mentor (including in our Women in the Studio National Accelerator) and to volunteer on boards and in organizations that I value. For me, this has meant me seizing opportunities such as joining the Advisory Committee for MusiCounts and serving as the manager/trainer for my daughter's hockey teams. I have met some of my closest friends and colleagues as a volunteer!”

Next-Gen Advice

“Success in the music industry doesn’t come from waiting for approval. You need to put your head down, do the work, and own your accomplishments. You also need to find a way to make your voice heard, even when no one else is listening... yet. Finally, it is of utmost importance to let your strength and determination be your guide. You have to be unapologetically stubborn in your pursuit, but you must always stay grounded; confidence is key, arrogance is not. Oh, and you need to have fun. We are in one of the most exciting and demanding businesses in the world. Being in the music industry is a privilege, and there’s never a dull day. If you’re not having fun, you’re missing the boat."

Next-Gen Advice

“1. Focus on the journey, not the destination. Your career may take surprising turns; don’t be afraid to try something new or to take calculated risks. Every experience, whether it’s a success or failure, is an opportunity to learn.

2. Don’t make yourself smaller so that others can feel more comfortable. Stand tall in who you are, and always operate from a position of integrity.

3. Take care of yourself. You can’t show up for others if you’re not showing up for yourself.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Your path forward may look different than the path taken by your male colleagues – and that is OK. Stick to your vision and your style and keep moving forward. There is no 'perfect' path to your goals, so don't take setbacks to heart. They are an opportunity to learn and adjust.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Lean into your identity because the lens and context you bring is invaluable. Your unique perspective and experiences are powerful assets. I encourage you to stay around those who champion you and those who will support you in bringing your true self to this industry. The industry will be better for it!”

Next-Gen Advice

“I have always prioritized being authentically myself and this has greatly contributed to my career growth. Do not be afraid to speak up, show your real emotions and take on whatever may happen next. Even when the outcome isn’t ideal, people have always appreciated my honesty and passion for what I do. The constant change and unpredictability around this business is also what’s so exciting about it.”

Next-Gen Advice

“In this industry, there will be moments where it feels like you have to prove yourself twice as hard to be seen and heard. The key is to focus on the work, speak up, build genuine relationships and hold your values close. It's not about fitting in or playing a role – it's about staying true to your vision and letting that guide the path forward. Success will come, but it's the authenticity you bring to every room and operating from a place of integrity that will sustain you.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Our game runs on results and relationships. There isn’t one path to or mould for either of those things. So, trust your own process and remember there is enough room in the industry for all of us. You will have a lot more fun and enjoy the journey by staying authentically yourself and continuing to remember why you wanted to play.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Trust your ears and your intuition. Focus on the work that will create the biggest impact. Lead from the heart and look for ways you can help artists, songwriters and producers build their business and autonomy.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Take over spaces and let your voice be heard. Speak up in meetings and on calls and know you deserve to have a seat at every table. Trust your gut.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Stay curious, fearless and authentic, and always be kind – to both yourself and others. No one has all the answers, and everyone has faced rejection, so you can’t fear mistakes or be afraid of asking questions (more often than not, your peers will thank you for asking them). Success in this industry isn’t just about talent; it’s about perseverance, creativity, humanity, and the ability to adapt. Embrace the process by asking questions, learning from every experience and holding onto your passion, even when the path seems unclear.

When opportunities present themselves, say yes – you never know where they might lead. And if those opportunities don’t come your way, create your own. If you feel strongly about your idea, you owe it to yourself to see it through. Be open to change and feedback, but if you have something important to say, don’t let setbacks silence you. Surround yourself with people who uplift and challenge you, as they will be the ones who help you grow. Every connection you make can be meaningful in some way – treat others with respect and be open to collaboration. The people you meet along the way may play a crucial role in your journey, just as you might in theirs. As the famous quote says: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ There is no perfect formula, but if you stay true to your passion and remain enthusiastic and resilient, it will be an incredible journey.”

Next-Gen Advice

“My first piece of advice is to know your worth. The music industry can be tough, but confidence in your abilities is key. Never stop learning, whether it’s about the business side of the industry, the creative process or new technologies. Passion for music is essential, but so is a solid understanding of the business. Develop strong financial and managerial skills to complement your creative instincts. This balance will help you stay ahead and make you a more effective leader and team player. Always believe in yourself and your ideas and don’t be afraid to take risks. Whether it’s signing a new artist, launching a project, applying for a job that seems out of your reach, or changing career paths, this all a part of the journey. Persistence, resilience, and a strong work ethic are key to long-term success.

My second piece of advice is to build a strong network and foster community. Relationships are crucial in the music industry. Network with other professionals, attend industry events and seek out mentors who can guide you. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. As you grow, reach back and help other women do the same. Mentorship, collaboration and support networks are crucial for breaking down barriers and ensuring more women succeed in the industry.

Lastly, always operate with integrity. The music industry can be cutthroat, but staying true to your values and treating others with respect will build strong relationships and reputation.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Be someone you would want to work with again. Relationships are everything, and people want to work with teammates that share an enthusiasm for the project in front of them. Consider which parts of the job make you excited, and be vocal about it – it’s appreciated and will lead to shaping a path that keeps you energized.”

Next-Gen Advice

“There are gatekeepers in this industry by whom you want to be taken seriously, who will never see the value you bring to the table. No matter how hard you work, no matter how much you show up or how many hours you put into doing your very best, they will ignore you. Guess what? It has absolutely nothing to do with you. Stop giving them your energy and time. They will never get to be a chapter in your book and that is their loss. The people who DO show up and take you seriously? Those are the ones who help you write the book, so keep them close. Treasure them, celebrate them, put all of your energy into them because they are your team. And keep those gates wide open because there are people out there who see you and your team and want to be part of it too.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Own your voice/vision, and trust your instincts. Surround yourself with people who respect and support your vision and challenge you without degrading or demoralizing you. Maybe most importantly, in 26 years we never felt entitled to anything we didn't earn ourselves. It takes work to build something that will last. Invest, invest, invest.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Whenever young women starting out in the concert business ask me for advice, my answer is always the same. Do not stress and agonize about the job. It does not help. Do the absolute best that you can every day. It will be enough. Approach every day as an audition for a part in a sitcom or drama. Always bring your outsize personality to the role. If I can’t hear you, talk to you, laugh with you, I can’t know how valuable and extraordinary you are.”

Next-Gen Advice

“The music industry is challenging, and rejection and self-doubt are often part of the journey – don’t lose faith in yourself! While work-life balance is frequently touted as essential, achieving it can be nearly impossible in this field. To safeguard your future and preserve your well-being, a strong community is what I’ve valued and it’s what has helped me the most. While my success is a personal achievement, it’s worth noting that I owe a great deal of it to the support and help I received from others."

Next-Gen Advice

“Be clear about what you want, what you're willing to sacrifice to achieve your goals. LOVE YOURSELF! When you love yourself you don’t ever settle, you know your worth and what you deserve and will not tolerate any sort of disrespect or mistreatment. Keep people around who know more than you, who can elevate what you are doing, who support you but also able to be straight talkers who will give reality checks when necessary.

Value and appreciate your allies, be prepared to pay your dues, to be the first one to arrive and the last to leave, lift as you rise, remember that you teach people how to treat you by what you will accept and what you refuse to tolerate. At the end of the day the buck starts and stops with you. And lastly, don't listen when anyone tells you to stay in your lane. Use your All Access Pass!”

Next-Gen Advice

“It can be hard not to compare but your path is never going to look like someone else's. Try to find strength in this, in your differences. Lean into you, your voice. What can you say or offer that only you can?”

Next-Gen Advice

“While not specific to the music industry, I'd say women in general don't often take the time to recharge. I tend to collect quotes and one I've noted of late has been 'If you don't make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness.' I think that applies for women individually and when they act as caregivers. This quote was from WISE (Women in Sports & Entertainment) and that would be my other advice, to seek out organizations and conferences where you can keep learning and benefit from other perspectives.”

Next-Gen Advice

“As a woman and entrepreneur in the music industry, I have found that lasting success comes from a mix of leading with strength, empathy and respect. It is this balance that not only enhances our own success, but also fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone in the industry. I personally put as much care into achieving our projects' goals and uplift those around us, because at the end of the day infusing humanity into what we do should be the core of success.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Choosing a career in music is as much a lifestyle choice as a career. Be sure that you work with artists that you truly love and believe in because the artists are what matter, and be certain that you do that work with a team of people that share your values and vision and who you genuinely enjoy spending your days with. Also, be kind. It's often overlooked and its effectiveness is underrated.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Define what success looks like for you, not anyone else. Hard work and perseverance does pay off, [so] stick with it. Stay resilient. Follow your instinct. Ask good questions. Be authentic. Focus on growth and learning. Identify your weaknesses and find opportunities to focus your networking in those areas. Everyone, coming up in any industry, will have mentors, allies and competitors. Grow your network with the knowledge that you will have indispensable support and you will also (likely) have detractors as your path grows and develops. Navigating the complexities of relationships is the skill all great builders share.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Imposter syndrome is so real. Surround yourself with people who share common goals, who understand the struggles, and who can help you navigate through the BS. Things have gotten better out there, but it's still so hard for women in this industry, and even moreso for mothers. You are not alone. You can do this. It may take a while to find your way, or to find it again, but you will get there if you persist, and remember what drives you forward.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Build a strong and supportive network. In an industry where nepotism and gender-based discrimination can create significant barriers, connections and skills become invaluable. Seeking out mentors and allies who recognize potential and are invested in growth is essential. These relationships can provide the necessary guidance, opportunities and support to navigate the complexities of the industry. At the same time, it’s crucial to consistently showcase unique abilities and perspectives – whether through music, leadership or creative vision. Let the work speak so loudly that it cannot be ignored.

Resilience is equally essential. The challenges may be steep, but they are not insurmountable. Setbacks should not be discouraging; instead, they should be viewed as opportunities to learn, adapt and explore alternative paths. The traditional route may not always be available, but that doesn’t mean the journey ends. Creativity in finding or even creating opportunities – whether through independent projects, collaborations or entrepreneurial endeavours – is key. Most importantly, supporting and uplifting other women in the industry is vital. Collective strength can challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change. Every voice, contribution and determination are vital to personal success and instrumental in shaping the future of the music industry.”

Next-Gen Advice

“Be a lifelong learner when it comes to honing your craft, regardless of your role within the industry. Learn through connecting with people at various levels of expertise within your industry role. Learn through collaborating with people who have expertise in other roles. As the industry continues to change, be curious. There are many valuable lessons to be learned through trying something new and succeeding, as well as trying something new and failing. If you learned something from your experience, was it really a failure? The outcome of an experience, whether positive or negative, does not always reflect the value added to your personal journey or the value that you can bring to others. It takes courage (and sometimes, grit) to keep trying, but keep trying. Keep learning.”