Fem Forte

Kate Warren is here to challenge every limiting belief about musicianship. In this episode, she talks about mental health in the arts, the science behind motivation, and how social media can be a platform for positive change. If you’ve ever felt stuck between your passion and practicality, this episode is your reminder that a thriving music career is possible—and personal.
Kate Warren is an internationally recognized hornist, music ...

From Mean Girls to Cirque du Soleil, Mackenna Tolfa has played it all—and played it well. In this episode, she reveals how staying curious led to world tours, composing original works, and becoming one of the first female drummers to be featured with Blue Man Group. We talk about initiative, identity, and what it means to discover who you are while staying in motion.

Mackenna Tolfa is a global performer, composer, and trailblaze...

What does it mean to direct without dominating? Allison Price (they/them) invites us into their world of intimate, immersive theater and queer performance. With accolades from the Kennedy Center and a deep commitment to inclusive environments, Allison shares how great directing is about releasing control, managing relationships with care, and using the stage as a tool for advocacy.
Allison Price (they/them) is a director and deviser...

In this episode of Fem Forte, I am joined by Paulette Tomlinson, the Director of Fine Arts at Tomball ISD. Paulette shares her inspiring journey from band director to fine arts director, highlighting the pivotal moments and challenges she faced along the way. We delve into the crucial role of arts advocacy in the Texas state legislature and discuss how it directly impacts the future of fine arts education in public schools. Join us...

On this episode, I am joined by the incredible Courtney Allyson Mills. With over 25 years of experience in dance education, freelance choreography, and consulting, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. Her impressive career spans notable drum corps, marching bands, and winter guard/percussion/winds programs.

Courtney's unique approach focuses on creating a safe and inclusive space for students to explo...

Join us as we sit down with Aubrey Bergauer, dubbed “the Steve Jobs of classical music” and “the Sheryl Sandberg of the symphony.” Known for her data-driven, customer-centric approach, Aubrey has transformed major institutions like the Seattle Symphony and California Symphony. We discuss her passion for arts management, her innovative strategies for growth, and insights from her new book, “Run It Like a Business.” Don’t miss this i...

In this exciting episode of Fem Forte, we sit down with the incredibly talented Samia Vanderkolff, the current Movement Caption Head for the Bluecoats. Samia has a rich history of choreographing for top performing ensembles worldwide, bringing her unique vision and expertise to the marching arts and drum corps community.

Join us as we delve into the critical role of movement in marching band and drum corps, exploring how it enhance...

In this enlightening episode of Fem Forte, we are joined by the talented Nicole Pacent, an actress and producer celebrated for her roles in Westworld, Criminal Minds Evolution, Call Me Kat, and the groundbreaking web series Anyone But Me. Nicole also has experience behind the microphone as the former co-host of The Coming Out Pod.

Nicole shares her inspiring journey from the theatre stage to the bright lights of Hollywood, offering...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Genevieve Geisler, an absolute powerhouse in the drum corps community. Starting her journey as a food truck volunteer, Genevieve's passion and dedication have propelled her to the role of CFO for one of the top world-class drum corps in our space. Her story is a true testament to perseverance, hard work, and excellence.

Join us as Genevieve shares her incredible journey, the challenge...

In this episode, we talk with Los Angeles based composer Amanda Muse. Amanda shares the pivotal moments that ignited her passion for music and led her from being a percussionist/drummer to a renowned composer. We dive deep into her creative process, exploring how she moves from conceptualization to orchestration, and how her percussive background uniquely influences her compositions. Amanda's ability to create breathtaking musi...

On today’s episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Heidi Kay Begay, a dynamic serial entrepreneur who is revolutionizing the world of music and podcasting. With her diverse expertise as an educator, flutist, podcaster, and consultant, Dr. Begay is a true trailblazer in the industry.

Join us as we explore Dr. Begay's journey and her remarkable entrepreneurial ventures, including The Pivoting Musician, Red House Produc...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Myra Rhoden, the Fine Arts Department Chairperson and Band Director at Fayette County High School in Georgia. Dr. Rhoden shares her inspiring journey into music education, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped her career and passion for empowering young musicians.

We delve into the genesis of the Athena Music and Leadership Camp, an innovative initiative founded by Dr. Rhoden. Designed e...

Welcome back, listeners! As we celebrate Women’s History Month. In this special episode, we're taking it back to where it all began – my alma mater, Texas A&M University - Kingsville. Joined by fellow Javelinas: Dr. Medlina Brou, Liz Ortga-Ruiz, and Yasmin Cantu on the panel, we delve into the inspiring realm of empowering women in music education.

From sharing personal journeys to discussing the challenges and triumphs of ...

In this special live taping of Fem Forte, we had the privilege of addressing hundreds of students at the Incomparable Marching Workshop held at West Chester University. Our panel of remarkable women, Trish Cornett, Shirley Dorittie, Lauren Ryals, and Jennifer Leseth, are true powerhouses, each having immense impact in the music industry.  In this live episode, we embarked on a journey to discover how to find your passions and forge...

Did you know the Blue Man Group actually doesn't include just men? Kaylie Brooke and Jamese Moses are trailblazers in the world of entertainment, making history as part of the first inaugural all-women cast of "The Musician" on the Blue Man Group World Tour. Their achievements extend far and wide, from captivating audiences in NFL stadiums to dazzling performances at nationally recognized theme parks, and so much more...

We're bringing you a unique treat: our very first live taping at the Girls March camp in the vibrant heart of Houston, Texas. This episode holds a special place in our hearts because it allowed us to sit down with some of our personal heroes, women who have not only conquered but redefined the percussion world: Lauren Teel, Sandi Rennick, and Adrian Bond. These incredible women have made their mark in the world of percussion th...

Imagine walking into a drumline or front ensemble audition and only seeing other girls there. It may be tough to picture. Raychel Taylor has become a visionary leader in the world of percussion and her deep passion for empowering young female percussionists led her to create "Girls March," an organization dedicated to advocating for women in the world of marching arts. Through music and leadership seminars featuring influ...

In this episode, we delve into two essential topics: the importance of representation, particularly for women in brass, and the role of inclusivity in the music world. Amanda Petro sheds light on the strides being made to create a more diverse and equitable space for all. We also explore the significance of being a student-centered leader and educator, emphasizing the positive impact that dedicated mentors can have on young musicia...

Get ready for one of our favorite episodes with Kirsten Haddox (@kirstenoboe), a Pittsburgh-based oboist, content creator, and marketing pro. Kirsten's online presence is a captivating blend of music career guidance, oboe covers, and comedy videos. Kirsten shares her wisdom on music marketing, the dynamic world of social media, and the paramount importance of self-promotion and entrepreneurship for today's musicians. If you...