Straight Talking with Kelly “Where Real Conversations Happen” Cultural Truth Teller Through Music and Insider Stories Welcome to Straight Talking with Kelly- Where Real Conversations Happen I’m Kelly — a storyteller, educator, and creative voice connecting music, culture, and real-life experiences. On this channel, you’ll discover how artists really make money — from music royalties and publishing to contracts and ownership and the stories behind the business. But Straight Talking with Kelly is about more than music. I also sit down with talented, intelligent, and creative people from education, fashion, television, theater, culinary arts, hospitality, entrepreneurship, health and wellness, community advocacy, and beyond. These are real conversations with people who have something to say, something to teach, and a story worth hearing. Real people. Real stories. Real insight. Come for the conversation. Stay for the stories. #MusicIndustry #MusicRoyalties #BehindTheMusic #MusicFacts #StraightTalkingWithKelly #RealPeopleRealStories
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October 13, 2026Episode 7232 min
Leadership, Legacy, and the Future of District 10
In episode 72 of Straight Talking with Kelly, I'm joined by California State Controller Malia Cohen and community leader Theo Ellington. Standing on the shoulders of the pioneering grassroots leaders of Bayview Hunters Point, we dive into public service, community advocacy, and the vision for the future of San Francisco’s District 10. Watch as Controller Cohen shares why she has endorsed Theo Ellington for District 10 Supervisor, and hear Theo discuss his commitment to uplifting the community that raised him. Subscribe to Straight Talking with Kelly for more in-depth conversations, community spotlights, and inspiring interviews.
September 29, 2026Episode 7146 min
The Van Peebles Filmmaking Legacy
In this compelling episode of Straight Talking with Kelly, I sit down with acclaimed actor, writer, director, and producer, Mario Van Peebles for an inspiring conversation about the Van Peebles legacy, filmmaking, family and the power of storytelling. "Thanks for tuning in to this powerful conversation with Mario Van Peebles! If you love deep-dive stories, cultural heritage, and behind-the-scenes filmmaking insights, hit Subscribe to join the community for upcoming episodes!"
August 29, 2026Episode 701 hr 31 min
Let's Talk Music: Music Then & Now
Kelly welcomes back Michael Aczon, Entertainment Lawyer, and Carlos Stanfield, Artist Management, to have a candid and fun convesation about music past and present, along with personal stories. Michael brings the legal/business perspective, Carlos brings his music-industry experience, and I bring the cultural, educational and storytelling perspective. If you enjoyed this conversation, hit that subscribe button, like the episode, and share it with someone who loves music as much as we do. #MusicIndustry #MusicBusiness #BehindTheMusic
May 6, 2026Episode 691 hr 3 min
What They Don't Tell You!
Thembisa Mshaka pulls back the curtain on her music industry journey, revealing hard-earned lessons and the untold truths behind the business. She has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Beyoncé, Lauryn Hill, and the Wu-Tang Clan. She’s a creative executive, a storyteller, and the author of Put Your Dreams First… and she’s helped shape careers in ways most people never get to see. Instagram: / officialhiphopbeauty Email: mshakamedia@gmail.com
February 20, 2026Episode 681 hr 15 min
Music Publishing Explained for Independent Artists
In this powerful episode, Kelly sits down with entertainment attorney, artist manager, educator, and author Michael A (Michael Aczon) for an unfiltered conversation about what artists really need to know about the music industry today. Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelAczon/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@michaelaczon.com
January 25, 2026Episode 6739 min
Claudia Viek, Founder, Invest in Women Entrepreneurs (I-WE) Initiative
Episode #67 Straight Talking with Kelly-Claudia Viek, Founder, Invest in Women Entrepreneurs (I-WE) Initiative Join me and my guest, Claudia, as she discusses the importance of investing in women entrepreneurs. Claudia Viek is a nationally recognized advocate for women entrepreneurs with over 35 years of experience in business incubation, micro-lending, and policy advocacy. She founded the Invest in Women Entrepreneurs (I-WE) Initiative to address the chronic underfunding of women-owned businesses and has helped secure millions in public and private funding to support women entrepreneurs across California and the nation. Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiaviek/ About Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, Speaker Kelly K. Armstrong is an image consultant and educator based in San Francisco. She hosts the Straight Talking with Kelly Podcast, where she interviews guests from various industries. Armstrong has over 25 years of experience in image consulting and public relations, advising on personal appearance, presentation skills, and job readiness training. She founded the Primed & Prepped program at the Bay View YMCA, which provides job training for young people in underserved communities. Armstrong is passionate about helping people look and feel their best. Social Media Email Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/duiathk/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcast Online Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917 Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrong
November 15, 2025Episode 6637 min
Theo Ellington- Making a Difference in The City That Made Him
Straight Talking with Kelly “Where Real Conversations Happen” It is your gateway to engaging with the brightest minds across many industries. I connect with a diverse group of individuals, all masters of their crafts. We embark on a journey with insightful discussions, invaluable tips, and resources. Episode #66 Straight Talking with Kelly- Theo Ellington, Executive Director, Ruth Williams Opera House, Bayview. Join me and my guest, Theo Ellington, as he talks about the city that made him. About Theo Ellington Theo Ellington, a third-generation San Franciscan whose life story is deeply intertwined with the city, is now seeking to serve as Supervisor for District 10. Raised in Bayview by a hardworking single mother, Theo’s path from adversity to advocacy began early — inspired by the community around him and driven by a determination to create a safer, fairer, and more vibrant San Francisco. From producing documentaries featured at the SF International Film Festival and the World Economic Forum, to leading citywide initiatives that built 1,000 affordable homes, expanded homeless services, and created 3,000 living-wage jobs, Theo’s impact is felt across every corner of our city. Today, he continues his mission as Executive Director of the Ruth Williams Bayview Opera House, where he’s leading a cultural renaissance and nurturing the next generation of local artists. As a husband, father, and lifelong Bayview resident, Theo is raising the fourth generation of San Franciscans — and working to ensure this city remains a place where every family can live, work, and thrive. Social Media Email: ellingtontheo@gmail.com Website: Ruth Williams Opera House- https://rwoh.org/ Website: https://www.bhfs.com/people/theodore-ellington/ Website: https://www.theoellington.com/about Facebook: / ellingtontheo Instagram: / theoellingtonsf About Kelly Armstrong Kelly K. Armstrong is an image consultant and educator based in San Francisco. She hosts the Straight Talking with Kelly Podcast, where she interviews guests from various industries. Armstrong has over 25 years of experience in image consulting and public relations, advising on personal appearance, presentation skills, and job readiness training. She founded the Primed & Prepped program at the Bay View YMCA, which provides job training for young people in underserved communities. Armstrong is passionate about helping people look and feel their best. Social Media Email Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com Facebook: / duiathk YouTube: / @kellyk.podcastchannel Instagram: / kellykpodcast Online Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917 Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=kar...
September 14, 2025Episode 6336 min
Straight Talking with Kelly-Kelly Castagnaro-Communications Director at CASA of Oregon
Straight Talking with Kelly “Where Real Conversations Happen” #RealConversations #DJKellyC #WorkingGirlsVintage It is your gateway to engaging with the brightest minds across many industries. I connect with a diverse group of individuals, all masters of their crafts. We embark on a journey with insightful discussions, invaluable tips, and resources. Episode #63 Straight Talking with Kelly- Kelly Castagnaro- Communications Director at CASA of Oregon About Kelly Castagnaro From San Francisco City Hall to New York nonprofits and now spinning vinyl in Portland, Kelly Castagnaro has lived a life powered by storytelling. As Communications Director for CASA of Oregon, she champions affordable housing and equity through words and advocacy. Beyond the office, she’s DJ KellyC on Freeform Portland, sharing her passion for music, and the creative force behind Working Girls Vintage, where she restores and curates thrifted treasures. Social Media Website: https://casaoforegon.org/ I Instagram: https://instagram.com/kcastagnaro Instagram: https://instagram.com/shopworkinggirlsvintage FreeForm Portland Radio: https://freeformportland.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelly.castagnaro About Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, Speaker K. Armstrong is an image consultant and educator based in San Francisco. She hosts the Straight Talking with Kelly Podcast, where she interviews guests from various industries. Armstrong has over 25 years of experience in image consulting and public relations, advising on personal appearance, presentation skills, and job readiness training. She founded the Primed & Prepped program at the Bay View YMCA, which provides job training for young people in underserved communities. Armstrong is passionate about helping people look and feel their best. Social Media Email Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/duiath/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannel I Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcast Online Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917 Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrong
August 15, 2025Episode 6233 min
Straight Talking with Kelly- Beyond Bead Stringing – The Artistry of NinarossDesigns
Straight Talking with Kelly “Where Real Conversations Happen” It is your gateway to engaging with the brightest minds across many industries. I connect with a diverse group of individuals, all masters of their crafts. We embark on a journey with insightful discussions, invaluable tips, and resources. Episode #62 Straight Talking with Kelly- Beyond Bead Stringing – The Artistry of NinarossDesigns About Linda MarieLinda Marie, aka "Artisan Girl," is a San Francisco, CA jewelry designer and owner of NinarossDesigns, who's been making wearable art for several decades. She is a self-taught artisan who enjoys working with wire, semi-precious gemstones, and making her own beads and components. Linda Marie uses several techniques to create unique designs, such as wire wrapping gemstones, handmade resin beads, and wire crochet. NinarossDesigns go way beyond ordinary "bead stringing". Social Media Website: https://ninarossdesigns.indiemade.com/store Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artsygirl830artsyGirl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artisangirlgoldie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NinarossDesigns About Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, Speaker Email Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/duiathk/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcast Online Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917 Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrong About Kelly ArmstrongKelly K. Armstrong is an image consultant and educator based in San Francisco. She hosts the Straight Talking with Kelly Podcast, where she interviews guests from various industries. Armstrong has over 25 years of experience in image consulting and public relations, advising on personal appearance, presentation skills, and job readiness training. She founded the Primed & Prepped program at the Bay View YMCA, which provides job training for young people in underserved communities. Armstrong is passionate about helping people look and feel their best.
July 12, 2025Episode 6054 min
Straight Talking with Kelly-Andiey Gay-CEO of Andria's Ark
Straight Talking with Kelly “Where Real Conversations Happen. It is your gateway to engaging with the brightest minds across a spectrum of industries. I connect with a diverse group of individuals, all masters of their crafts, from various industries. We embark on a journey with insightful discussions, invaluable tips, and resources. Episode #60 Straight Talking with Kelly- Andiey Gay, CEO of Andria's Ark Join me and my guest, Andiey Gay, as she talks about the healing power of horticultural and urban agricultural activities. About Andiey Gay Andiey Gay is the CEO of Andria's Ark Incorporated, a not-for-profit organization geared toward helping individuals obtain and maintain mental and spiritual health through horticultural and urban agricultural activities. Social Media Facebook: @greenwitch79 Instagram & TT: @gardenwitchsuper About Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, Speaker Kelly K. Armstrong is an image consultant and educator based in San Francisco. She hosts the Straight Talking with Kelly Podcast, where she interviews guests from various industries. Armstrong has over 25 years of experience in image consulting and public relations, advising on personal appearance, presentation skills, and job readiness training. She founded the Primed & Prepped program at the Bay View YMCA, which provides job training for young people in underserved communities. Armstrong is passionate about helping people look and feel their best. Email Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/duiathk/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcast Online Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917 Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrong
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