Moira McGovern-Epel

I attribute my success to my parents. Both my mom and my dad were highly successful executives and entrepreneurs, and I was trained by them.

The best career advice I've ever received was: 'There's no emotion in business.' My boss told me this when I was getting too emotionally invested in a client situation. It taught me that you can care deeply about your work while still making objective, rational decisions. Staying calm, professional, and focused on solving problems leads to better outcomes for everyone.

People often talk about "the music industry" as if it's one thing, but it's really a collection of different islands. Publishing, management, record labels, touring, A&R, and marketing each have their own rules and operate differently. My advice would be to first decide which part of the industry you're passionate about, then seek mentors and advice from people who have actually succeeded in that specific area.

One of the biggest challenges facing the music industry is the increasing emphasis on short-term metrics over long-term artist development. With the pace of content and the pressure to chase trends, fewer artists are being given the time and support to create truly timeless work. I believe the opportunity lies in returning to real artist development and building cohesive, culturally meaningful albums that stand the test of time rather than simply chasing the next viral moment.

Honesty, integrity, and always doing what's best for the greatest good. Life is about helping other people and making somebody else's life better rather than living just for myself.