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 in the process of building my new identity as “K4T” and moving on from what I had released under “Kathryn Johnson” when we had our daughter. Rebranding myself as “K4T” would be a new era for me, as I wanted to let go of the person who cared so much about how others perceived me and dedicate my life to being true to myself. After we had our daughter, we did our first gig 5 weeks postpartum, and I continued to write and record with my clients on Fiverr. 

When my partner and I found out we were having a daughter, everything happened so fast, I don’t think we really knew how to prepare for everything (and it’s almost impossible to prepare for everything! haha). We didn’t necessarily have a lot of discussion about how it would affect our career, but we knew that we wanted to continue to do what we loved and set an example for our daughter that would show her she can do anything she’ll set her mind to. 

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

Something I’m really struggling with right now is finding time. Time to record. Time to write, create content, collaborate with others.  My partner and I make most of our income from gigs, and I also work part-time. When we’re not taking care of our 1 year old, our time is usually spent practicing, cleaning, or planning. As a parent, your focus and priorities shift drastically, as your child becomes the core of everything you do in your everyday life. This is a beautiful thing, but of course, it doesn’t come without challenges! Ironically, I am writing this while also trying to put my daughter back to bed. 

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

Providing resources that help parents adjust and learn to manage their time and career while being a new parent - I know that would’ve probably helped me! 

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

Most of my support comes from my close family, and friends, both inside and out of the music industry. Other than that, gigs and being around like-minded people help me feel a sense of community. I see my family and friends, as well as do gigs at least once a week. This brings a little bit of balance to my life :) 

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

I’m ashamed to say that I don’t actually know a venue doing something for parents specifically! But I would love to be pointed in the direction of one! 

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

Have family areas at festivals, and virtual options for conferences. 

Can you shout out another music mama doing great things?

Caleigh Cardinal. She’s a really hardworking mama who inspires me to continue doing music. She told me something that really resonated when I felt like I couldn’t do everything I wanted to with my music - “I hope you know you’re not missing out on anything that’s meant for you, because that will always find you”. Thank you, Caleigh! I try to remind myself to just be patient and that things will happen in due time, and I am enjoying every moment so much more. 

Hear Kathryn's music HERE.