In the vibrant city of Seattle, a Grammy Award-winning jazz musician is redefining what it means to ‘have it all.’ With a plethora of roles including professor of music, small business owner, sound therapy practitioner, wife, and mother of twins, she challenges the notion that women cannot excel in multiple facets of life simultaneously.
The musician reflects on her journey, stating that success requires a supportive community. Her husband’s encouragement, her children’s belief in her, and a carefully chosen network have been integral to her ability to thrive.
Starting in a male-dominated field, she fought for recognition as a band leader and educator, eventually earning two Grammy Awards with her vocal group, säje. These achievements showcase not just talent but years of overcoming obstacles inherent in the music industry.
In addition to her work in jazz, she has cultivated a sound therapy practice that has gained momentum in the Pacific Northwest. Despite the challenges of raising twins while navigating a demanding academic and artistic career, Seattle’s openness to the healing arts facilitated her growth.
“I had to turn down opportunities due to the overwhelming nature of my commitments,” she admits. However, she emphasizes that saying “no” is often just as powerful as saying “yes,” allowing her to focus on what truly resonates with her values.
Childcare has become increasingly essential in her journey, particularly as a working mother. By incorporating childcare into her budget, she has alleviated some of the pressures that often hinder women from pursuing their ambitions. This strategic planning allows her to balance her artistic and familial responsibilities effectively.
Seattle’s creative energy has deeply influenced her work and personal development. The community thrives on originality and innovation, with many trailblazing women in various fields supporting one another. This collaborative spirit has been crucial in nurturing her career.
Yet, she acknowledges that more must be done. The systemic lack of recognition for childcare as a fundamental enabler of career success persists, complicating life for many working mothers. Addressing this issue could unlock vast potential for numerous women striving for professional fulfillment.
Moreover, Seattle’s creative community faces challenges surrounding affordability and diversity. Many artists find it increasingly difficult to afford living in the city, forcing them away from a cultural scene they once contributed to significantly. Opportunities for grants that support small, for-profit organizations alongside increased diversity in leadership positions are needed to foster more equitable success.
Through her experiences, she remains steadfast in her belief that ‘having it all’ is less about multitasking and more about prioritizing what matters most. Molding the talents of her students, composing music that resonates deeply, assisting clients on their healing journeys, and nurturing her family all form her unique blueprint of success.
As she continues her artistic endeavors in Seattle, the musician calls for systemic changes. By tackling issues like affordable childcare and increasing the diversity of narratives present in the creative community, she believes Seattle can evolve into a space where all women have the opportunity to flourish.
“I’ll keep spinning my plates,” she asserts, embracing her journey with a sense of joy and empowerment. Her message resonates—pursuing authentic dreams while balancing responsibilities creates not just a fulfilling life but a thriving community as well.
image source from：https://seattlemag.com/seattle-culture/trailblazing-women-johnaye-kendrick/
