Today we have music mentoring with J R Richards from Dishwalla! He helps our protege (Vanaka) better understand how to turn their band into a BRAND!
When I first launched the Vanaka project and the One Ride company, I went to a large law firm with a big reputation in the music business, thinking that would really provide some great support and key contacts. But I ended up relegated to a lawyer low on the totem pole who had little interest in my project, its purpose and me – and little patience for my lack of technical knowledge. After a couple more false starts, I finally found the right one-man firm interested in both me and my ideas. We formed a solid business relationship and a friendship, and he has been invaluable to me through the various issues of starting a band and a record label.
Ann has actively advocated for women’s issues throughout her career, particularly to expand women’s opportunities in Corporate America. A graduate of Yale University and Columbia Law School, she is now a partner at the global law firm DLA Piper, where she maintains a full, corporate-law practice while also being actively involved with the Women’s Initiative Program at the firm. The mother of two young children, Ann envisioned Pink51 while searching for retailers that combined quality products with a commitment to promoting women. The idea was to identify and champion corporations either owned by women or where women are substantively involved in the management of the company. By channeling a percentage of its proceeds to charities committed to the economic empowerment of women, Pink51 combines Ann’s passions for women’s advancement in the workplace and philanthropy. Ann is an avid traveler (with a particular fondness for Paris and Rome) and amateur chef. She lives in Pasadena, CA with her husband and kids, and enjoys volunteering in her community and is active in her childrens' schools.
Marta is known to her team as the Master Connector. A proven professional entrepreneur, Marta currently is also the President of Starfish Impact, providing philanthropic advisory services to foundations, businesses and individuals who strive to make a greater impact in their community through strategic philanthropy. After working for Goldman Sachs & Co., she launched several companies including GOLS Soccer, Skin Haven and Market China. She holds an MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management and double majored at Vassar College. Marta was the Co-Captain of the Women’s Varsity Soccer Team and was the starting striker forward all four years. She holds Vassar College women’s soccer records for goals scored, assists and total points. Marta played soccer throughout her 30's on two competitive teams and now spends her free time playing sports with her son and husband. As a philanthropist, Marta has been extremely active in her community since founding a nonprofit in high school, and specifically in the greater Los Angeles community with multiple nonprofit organizations including her current role as an LASVP Partner and Board Member. She also served on the Los Angeles Board of National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and was an active leader of Step Up Women's Network including her role as the Los Angeles President and Board Chair.
