Straight Talking with Kelly “Where Real Conversations Happen” Cultural Truth Teller Through Music and Insider Stories Most people love music… but they don’t understand the business behind it. “Welcome to Straight Talking with Kelly — where we break down the truth behind the music industry, culture, and the stories that shaped generations. I’m Kelly — a storyteller, educator, and creative voice connecting music, culture, and real-life insight. On this channel, you’ll discover how artists really make money — from music royalties and publishing to contracts and ownership — along with the hidden truths about the music business most people never hear. You’ll also find reflections from other guests on culture, creativity, and personal expression — because music, style, and storytelling are all connected. #MusicIndustry #MusicRoyalties #ArtistMoney #BehindTheMusic #HiddenTruth #MusicFacts
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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: / officialhiphopbeautyEmail: 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) InitiativeJoin 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, SpeakerKelly 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 MediaEmail Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/duiathk/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcast Online Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkellyProfessional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917Flori 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.comWebsite: 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=111917Flori 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 #WorkingGirlsVintageIt 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/ IInstagram: https://instagram.com/kcastagnaroInstagram: https://instagram.com/shopworkinggirlsvintageFreeForm Portland Radio: https://freeformportland.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelly.castagnaroAbout Kelly Armstrong,Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, SpeakerK. 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 MediaEmail Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/duiath/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannel IInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcastOnline 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 NinarossDesignsAbout 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 MediaWebsite: https://ninarossdesigns.indiemade.com/storeTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@artsygirl830artsyGirl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artisangirlgoldieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NinarossDesignsAbout Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, SpeakerEmail Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/duiathk/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcastOnline Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrongAbout 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 ArkJoin me and my guest, Andiey Gay, as she talks about the healing power of horticultural and urban agricultural activities.About Andiey GayAndiey 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 MediaFacebook: @greenwitch79Instagram & TT: @gardenwitchsuperAbout Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, SpeakerKelly 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.podcastchannelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcastOnline Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrong
June 26, 2025Episode 5932 min
Straight Talking with Kelly-Emanuel Brueh, Comedian and Comedy Producer
Straight Talking with Kelly “Where Real Conversations Happen” 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 #59 Straight Talking with Kelly- Emanuel BruehJoin me and my guest, Emanuel Brueh, as he talks about being a stand-up comedian and comedy producer.About Emanuel Today’s guest is a newly minted stand-up comedian and comedy producer who’s on a mission to connect people through laughter and shared experiences. Whether performing stories that toe the line between the absurd and the awkward or producing sharp, inclusive, and entertaining shows in venues ranging from intimate lounges to high-end hotels, he is all about creating moments of connection, one punchline at a time. Off stage, he brings over 40 years of professional experience in Human Resources and Hospitality, with expertise in everything from labor relations and policy development to training, recruiting, and employee satisfaction. Whether it’s managing a punchline or a performance review, he knows how to read the room.Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/ebsf63/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576594253112 https://www.linkedin.com/in/emanuelbrueh/About Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, SpeakerEmail Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellyk.podcastchannel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcastOnline Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrong About Kelly Armstrong Kelly K. Armstrong is an image consultant and educator based in San Francisco. Armstrong 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.
February 28, 2025Episode 5844 min
Straight Talking with Kelly-Ericka Scott-Jean Jacket Bling Workshop
Welcome to Straight Talking with Kelly Armstrong, where you will meet the most talented, intelligent, and creative people who come to share tips, resources, and knowledge on various topics.Episode # 58 Straight Talking with Kelly-Ericka Scott, Owner/Founder of Honey Art StudioTopic: The Jean Jacket Bling Workshop: A Step-by-Step Guide to Rhinestone Embellishment.About Ericka Scott. Ericka Scott is a native San Franciscan who grew up in the Fillmore Western Addition. Scott is currently the Director of District Programs for the San Francisco African American Art & Cultural District (SFAAACD). Also a Consultant/Instructor at Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center. Scott studied American Studies with an emphasis on Urban Development at the University of California, Berkeley. She is the founder/owner of Honey Art Studio, a space that acknowledges Black people's creativity, longevity, ingenuity, and faith. Through various forms of Art & Economic Development, she highlights and uplifts Culture.Social Media:Website: www.honeyartstudio.orgFacebook: / ericka.green.75 Instagram: / honeyartist About Kelly Armstrong, Your Podcast Host: Image Consultant, Publicist, Educator, Personal Development Trainer, SpeakerEmail Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.comYouTube: / @kellyk.podcastchannel Instagram: / @kellyk.podcastchannel Facebook: /@duiathk Online Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkellyProfessional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=kar...Image Consultant and educator Kelly K. Armstrong provides a platform for talented, intelligent, and creative people to be seen and heard with her Straight Talking with Kelly Podcast, “Where Real Conversations Happen.”The San Francisco-based consultant is a “connector” who has worked in many industries and has an outgoing, enthusiastic personality that attracts people to her. Armstrong’s guests come from many sectors, including Education, Music, Television, Theater, Fashion, Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Community Advocates, and much more!With more than 25 years of experience in image consulting and public relations, Armstrong enjoys helping people “be their best, by looking and feeling their best” in body and spirit by advising about skincare, makeup, grooming, overall personal appearance, presentation skills, and job readiness training, she also teaches in the Fashion Department at City College of San Francisco. Working in the underserved Bayview Hunter’s Point neighborhood in San Francisco, Armstrong is the Founder of the Primed & Prepped: A Hospitality Management/Culinary Arts Mentoring and Job Training Program at the Bayview Hunters Point YMCA. The program aims to help mitigate the barriers to employment for young males and females of color.
November 22, 2024Episode 5727 min
Straight Talking with Kelly-Eduardo Aguire, Realtor and Creative Director
Welcome to Straight Talking with Kelly Armstrong, where you will meet the most talented, intelligent, and creative people who come to share tips, resources, and knowledge on various topics.Episode # 57 Straight Talking with Kelly- Eduardo Aguire, Realtor and Creative DirectorAbout Eduardo AguireInstagram, TikTok, & Youtube: @DougxEddy EEmail: eaaguire@gmail.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/eaaguire/About Eduardo Aguire:Eduardo Aguire (aka Eddy) is a San Francisco REALTOR® and Creative Director with a strong background in digital marketing, visual merchandising, fashion, and interior design. He also brings expertise in nonprofit startups, apparel manufacturing, and brand development, reflecting his commitment to creating a positive impact beyond real estate. A San Francisco State University graduate with a degree in Visual Communications and Business Marketing, Eddy skillfully combines his marketing and design expertise to craft standout, tailored real estate strategies. His innovative approach and genuine care ensure that each client's journey is as rewarding as the result.About your Podcast Host: Kelly ArmstrongEmail Address: Imagemaker86@hotmail.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2KOY9rz-yR87txU3NzzJiAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellykpodcastOnline Scheduling Calendar: https://calendly.com/imagemakerkelly Professional and Personal Training Programs: https://thinktq.com/index.cfm?sa=111917Flori Roberts Cosmetics: https://www.floriroberts.com/?ref=karenarmstrongAs an image consultant, educator, and host of the "Straight Talking with Kelly Podcast," Kelly creates a stage where real conversations happen. Based in San Francisco, she is a true connector, drawing in vibrant guests from fields like music, fashion, and wellness. With 25+ years in image consulting and public relations, Kelly empowers others to look and feel their best, offering insights on skincare, makeup, and job readiness. She also shares her expertise as a former Fashion Instructor at City College of San Francisco. Passionate about community, Kelly founded the Primed & Prepped program at Bayview Hunters Point YMCA, breaking employment barriers for young people of color. When she's not transforming lives, Kelly loves indulging in food, fashion, and music. She’s also a Jefferson Award Recipient. Join her journey and connect through her podcast!
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