Where were you at in your music career when you had your first child? Was there much discussion about how that life choice would affect your career within the music/entertainment industry?
I had recently transitioned to EMI Records, an incredible company led by Deane Cameron, where I felt very supported. Interestingly, I went into labour while working a show at the Molson Amphitheatre and never returned to EMI, as it was acquired by Universal Music while I was on maternity leave. The industry was undergoing major downsizing and facing numerous challenges, making job security and career progression quite uncertain. Throughout this period, I focused on staying curious and adaptable, continuously acquiring new skills and roles to remain relevant and move forward in my career.
As a working parent in the music industry, what are some of the biggest challenges you are facing?
Balancing presence for significant family moments with professional commitments is a major challenge. Navigating work events while also needing to be home, handling childcare logistics, and dealing with mom guilt are constant struggles.
What is one change (big or small) within the industry that could make a positive impact for working parents?
Providing flexibility to ensure parents can be present for important home life events, like school plays and track meets, is immensely beneficial. Additionally, normalizing networking events as brunches instead of late-night, alcohol-centric gatherings would help working parents participate more easily.
How do you find support and community with other working parents in or out of the music industry?
I am incredibly grateful for the supportive community I have within and outside the music industry. Community parents often collaborate on childcare logistics, like pickups and drop-offs, especially when meetings run over or traffic is bad. We share information about program sign-ups and celebrate our wins and failures together, knowing we are all doing our best to navigate the challenges.
What’s one specific example of an organization/venue/company doing something great to help support working parents?
Lasso Festival in Montreal stands out as exceptionally family-friendly, with an incredible team. The festival allowed me to work / network and enjoy an amazing weekend with my family simultaneously, demonstrating their commitment to supporting working parents.
What could a music event (festival, conference, etc.), do or provide to make it easier for you to participate?
Creating opportunities for children to attend conferences and events by providing engaging activities for them would be very helpful. Integrating the next generation into these initiatives, perhaps with programs designed for them, would make participation easier for parents and inspire them to have a future career in the music industry.
Can you shout out another music mama doing great things?
Charlotte Thompson and Julia Rambeau Smith are both doing fantastic work and have been a great support system to me throughout my career and many others. They lead by example, demonstrating how to balance a successful career and family life which inspires me.
