A Publicist, an Intern and the Rascal Flatts
The story of how one woman changed the path I was on and the importance of having a mentor
I was asked the question recently, “What was a time in your life where you felt inspired?” I love that question because it made me think back to all the little conversions and moments I’ve shared that continue to resonate with me today. One particular moment stood out to me that ended up pivoting my life and career before I was even conscious of it.
It was 10 years ago, the summer of 2012, between my junior and senior year of college and I had secured an internship with Storme Warren’s show on GAC called “Headline Country.” It was a country music news television show and I had no idea what I was getting into! I knew I felt pulled to Nashville and have always been fascinated by the music industry, but had never thought of myself pursuing a career in music. I thought acting/theatre/film would be my future. But this opportunity fell into my lap and something told me I should give it a try.
The first month went by and I was HOOKED. Everything about the music and Nashville lit me up. I got to observe and take notes as the producer interviewed artist after artist, bouncing around from CMA Fest to #1 parties to music video shoots and everything in between. I was a sponge behind the scenes observing what everyone was doing (the artist, the manager, the publicist, the camera operator, everyone!)
By the end of month 2, I had proven myself trustworthy and capable enough to attend the Rascal Flatts #1 party for their song “Banjo” with just a camera operator and take notes on the shots that we get and the press conference that was to take place. Easy enough, right? I didn’t have to interview anyone, just observe and take notes.
As the party got going, I noticed that there weren’t too many media outlets present. Before I knew it, the Rascal Flatts publicist came up to me and excitedly told me that they had decided to give one-on-one’s to each media outlet instead of doing one big press conference.
MY HEART STOPPED.
I had NOT done my homework. I didn’t know what was going on in the Rascal Flatts world, tour schedule, new music, nothing! All I knew was that we were there to celebrate their song “Banjo” going #1 on the charts. I could feel the blood drain out of my face.
In what felt like a matter of seconds, the publicist came running back up to me and put her hand on my shoulder and said, “Don’t worry, just ask them these 3 things….” and she went on to tell me 3 leading questions I could ask Rascal Flatts.
It was at that moment, I knew that this place was special. I knew Nashville was going to have my back. (I also learned to always be prepared!)
After I finished the interview (which went very well - Gary, Jay, and Joe Don were so gracious and kind), I packed up and went home. I remember thinking to myself, that woman not only slayed at her job, but she took the time to notice a young intern in need. That moment was so fleeting and I’m sure she would never remember it, but she inspired me to want to move to Nashville. Feeling seen and feeling guided by someone in the music industry inspired me to look inside of myself and discover my true passion for music. My path was forever changed.
We all need mentors in our lives. Mentors have encouraged and inspired me to keep going to do better, to go bigger and most importantly to never settle and design a career that suits ME. We need to lean on each other for support. We need to ask questions and never stop learning. It’s ok to ask for help. It’s ok to not have all the answers.
I encourage you to ask yourself, “Who do I have in my life I can lean on and bounce ideas off of?” Go shoot that person a text or email. Or better yet, call them.
If nobody comes to mind, please reach out to us at info@wearenewroots.com and we’d love to be a support for you.
I’m forever grateful for that publicist who I am still trying to track down. She encouraged me, she gave me confidence and she helped a fellow creator out. Now go be kind and be that for someone else!