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 was 5 years into my career as a music publisher when I had our first child. My husband and I discussed the challenges as I was travelling quite a bit. I was in the midst of building my career in the sync business so it was not an ideal time to have a baby however I was older so I didn’t want to wait too long.

As a working parent in the music industry, what are some of the biggest challenges you are facing?

Ensuring I am present and share the load with my husband is probably the biggest challenge. Since the pandemic, I’ve lessened my travel and ensured I support my husband's career as a musician and sound designer.

What is one change (big or small) within the industry that could make a positive impact for working parents?

In the private sector, it’s hard to find companies that top up mat leaves so having those programs in place would help as taking that time off is financially a challenge for new families. Also, employers shouldn’t expect travel at the same amount for both parents as it puts a strain on the family. I can also add that A&C does have a top-up program and allows us the freedom to choose our travel strategically so it’s a great place to be.

How do you find support and community with other working parents in or out of the music industry?

I don’t really, unfortunately. Our family has been our biggest support. I don’t feel there is a ton of support when a woman says she’s having a baby in the industry. I remember when I announced I was pregnant with my first, a male industry vet said ‘You’re not coming back, right, I’m sure you’ll want to be a stay-at-home mom’. Don’t get me wrong, I support a woman’s right to choose 100%, if you want to be a stay-at-home mom, go for it, you’re amazing! If you want to be a working mom, go for it, you’re amazing! I was honestly so disappointed that he said that to me. I’ve worked so hard to get where I am and I wasn’t giving it up to be at home. Even when I had my twins!

What’s one specific example of an organization/venue/company doing something great to help support working parents?

I think daycare is the number one issue for working parents. My salary almost exclusively went to that expense, it was very hard on us. We were also lucky to have parents who would look after the girls when we were both away. A lot of people don’t have that luxury.

What could a music event (festival, conference, etc.), do or provide to make it easier for you to participate?

Daycare or a kid-friendly area is always appreciated at these events. Field Trip had its own kids area and my kids loved it!

Can you shout out another music mama doing great things?

Heidi Krohnert our SVP of the Label, kills it at work and home as a mom to two awesome boys.