The music industry sets us up to seek approval from someone "in charge" rather than valuing our own ability to lead. I think it's time we change that.

I brought the topic of leadership to my Mastermind community, a group of professional and indie music makers at every stage of their careers, and asked them directly:

Do you see yourself as a leader?

Do you ever struggle to feel empowered, valued, or worthy in this field?

What's the most disempowering advice you've ever been given about pursuing a career in music?

We captured one of the most honest conversations we've ever had in our community, and decided to share it with you.

We discovered that most of us were led to believe that leadership, influence, and worth were things you earned later, after the achievements, after the credits, after the recognition.

We talked about what it actually looks like to show up as a leader (even with limited experience), about networking from a place of genuine connection instead of quiet desperation, and about leading with empathy and service in a space that can feel deeply competitive.

What emerged surprised even me.

This one will change how you see yourself in every room you walk into.

Enjoy!

Peter has worked with top-tier artists like Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Avril Lavigne, Billy Porter, and Pixie Lott. He had his first professional song cut as a teenager. Sounds like a dream...

And.... not everyone is this honest about whether or not there might be a cost to a career trajectory that takes off this early.

Peter is a full-time actor now, doing award-winning work on stage at the Beverly Hills Playhouse and appearing in major TV and film projects. It's been amazing to witness his renewed commitment to a craft I didn't even know he was missing so deeply.

This episode is inspiring, it's thoughtful, and at times truly hilarious. I think you're going to love it.

Meet our guests:

Dr. Christine Gangelhoff

Free Artistic Readiness Self-Assessment for Young Musicians

SoundPath Consulting

Dr. Alaina Johnson

Parenting Talent (resources)

And your host, Melissa Mulligan

Music Career Mastermind

Mel on IG