The WiMN’s Front and Center is a weekly column that showcases accomplished women who work in the music and audio industries. We spotlight successful female performers, manufacturers, retailers, educators, managers, publicists, and everyone else in between. Want to be featured? Learn how here.
Front and Center: Let’s Talk Music idobi Radio Show Host, Sara Scoggins
By Gabriella Steffenberg
Tech startup by day, radio show host by night, Sara Scoggins does it all. Host of Let’s Talk Music on the alternative internet radio station idobi, Scoggins has a passion for music and is building a name for herself in the music industry.
While being able to interview some of her favorite musicians, discover new music, and connect with users worldwide, Scoggins is fulfilling her love of talking about music with “friends” all across the globe.
Find out more about Scoggins below, and head here for more information on her idobi Radio show.
WiMN: Tell us about how Let’s Talk Music came to fruition.
SS: My buddy Matt Vogel, who works with idobi, asked me if I’d ever want to get involved, and of course I was excited at the idea of doing my own thing. The show is basically how I am in my own life so coming up with what I’d want the show to be was pretty easy. I love sharing music with friends and usually can’t wait to share new music with someone, so this was an opportunity to do what with an audience larger than what would fit in my car.
WiMN: What do you love about radio?
SS: I love that they can’t see me! It’s so wonderful to know your audience tunes in just because they appreciate your voice and what you have to say. They don’t care about what kind of clothes you have, or what your hair looks like. They tune in for the most pure reason. Because its fun and they enjoy being part of a community.
WiMN: Outside of your radio show, what do you do?
SS: I work for a tech start up in Los Angeles that’s launching a new app in February (fingers crossed). Hopefully one day you’ll download it.
WiMN: Do you have any memorable interview stories involving musicians you admire?
SS: I talk about this all the time, but I had an especially wonderful experience interviewing Aaron Marsh of Copeland last year. He was very generous with his answers and he was really engaged. I’ve always loved Copeland so it was wonderful to talk to him about anything and everything.
WiMN: Who are your favorite musicians/bands at the moment and why?
SS: Oooh, well even just today a friend I’ve known for a few years suggested I check out The Paper Kites and I can’t stop. He knows me really well so it was a great recommendation. It’s really beautiful and there are some tracks that make you want to dance. I also really loved the Foxing album last year and the new one from The World Is A Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid To Die. But my all time favorite bands are Jimmy Eat World, Brand New and Paramore. I’ve turned to those albums for years when I need them and they’ve always provided me with what I need.
WiMN: Are there any professionals within the music industry who inspire you?
SS: My peers mostly. idobi is filled with such passionate people and my regular jobs is as well. I’m really inspired by people who build their own path. People who have a ton of conviction and belief that they have something to offer. Anyone who has a vision and isn’t afraid to see it come to life inspires me.
WiMN: What’s the best piece of advice you can give to women within the industry?
SS: My advice to anyone who’s looking to get into the industry is to cultivate a voice. Figure out where you would fit in and where you can possibly disrupt things.
WiMN: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
SS: Well, I would never have said that I’d be here 10 year ago, so I really don’t know. I think I like it better that way.
