Music Industry Insights Worldwide: Shaping Equality & Diversity in Music & Entertainment
Harmonizing Voices: Global Perspectives on Equality & Diversity in the Music and Entertainment Industries with Saskhia Menendez & Special Guests
Hosted by Saskhia Menendez, award-winning advocate and music industry leader, Music Industry Insights Worldwide dives deep into the evolving world of equality and diversity in the music and entertainment industries. Through candid conversations with special guests, including trailblazing artists, producers, and industry experts, this podcast explores the stories, struggles, and successes of those dedicated to creating a more inclusive and equitable industry.
Whether you're an artist, industry professional, or music enthusiast, you’ll gain unique insights into the challenges faced by marginalized communities and how we can build a future of opportunity and representation.
Alongside the podcast, Saskhia is set to release her interactive educational book (available soon), offering valuable tools, resources, and strategies to empower the next generation of artists and industry professionals. She’s also a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, with recognition from the Global Diversity & Inclusion Honors and a Trans Charter to help support marginalized voices in music.
Join us in reshaping the global music scene, one voice at a time.
Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries, connects cultures, and touches our deepest emotions. It has the power to change lives, challenge norms, and inspire social change. However, as we celebrate the incredible diversity of voices and talents within the music industry, it's essential to acknowledge that the path to equality, diversity, and inclusion has not always been harmonious.
In this podcast, we aim to spotlight the stories, struggles, and successes of those working tirelessly to make the music industry a more inclusive and equitable space for all. We will delve into the experiences of artists, producers, managers, and industry professionals who are breaking barriers, pushing boundaries, and reshaping the landscape of the music world.
Stay connected and be part of the change:
- Follow Saskhia Menendez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/misssaskhia/
- Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5kMWsoBQPh7Y5qgM5hgZJh
- Join the conversation: Share your thoughts and feedback on social media using #HarmonizingVoices #musicindustryinsightsworldwide #saskhiamenendez
So, whether you're a music enthusiast, an industry insider, or someone looking to be inspired, "Harmonizing Voices" is your guide to the evolving and ever-inspiring world of music industry equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Don't forget to like, share, and hit that subscribe button!
Music Industry Insights Worldwide: Shaping Equality & Diversity in Music & Entertainment
The Day Everything Changed: How Michael Gilas Fought His Way Back to Music
There are moments in life that divide everything into before and after. For American singer-songwriter Michael Gilas, that moment came in 2021 when a horseback riding accident left him with a broken neck and unable to perform. Yet what could have ended his story instead became the beginning of his most powerful chapter.
Confined to a bed and forced to relearn the use of his hands, Michael refused to surrender. Using only his thumbs, he began composing melodies and lyrics small sparks that kept him connected to hope. Through resilience, discipline, and the healing power of creativity, he rebuilt his strength and emerged with a renewed purpose.That perseverance paid off in extraordinary ways.
His breakthrough single “Working With The Rain” debuted at #21 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary Chart in February and climbed to #13 by the end of the same month (Adult Contemporary Chart – RadioWave Monitor).
His momentum continues with his newest single, “Can’t Hide Beautiful,” which currently sits at #37 on the AC chart for the week of June 1, 2025, moving up from #40 with two new AC radio adds this week.
The track has also earned strong Mediabase recognition, recently reaching #23 — a clear sign of growing radio support and audience connection.
In this episode, Michael opens up about:
The accident that changed everything
Relearning to use his hands and rebuilding his life
The personal power of music as a lifeline
The making of his debut album, 231 Kensington Road, a tribute to his Long Island roots.
The shift from entrepreneurial success to rediscovering his true passion
Before the accident, Michael built an international company, Gilchrist & Soames, with his brother Tony a global success that offered stability but never replaced his longing for music. It took losing everything to finally return to what he was always meant to do.
Now based in San Diego, Michael is emerging as a compelling voice in the independent music scene, gaining thousands of streams and delivering songs rooted in real resilience, hope, and rebirth.
🎵 Connect with Michael Gilas
Website: https://michaelgilas.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/412oFoFK213H1r4PBmz9Bn
🎶 Featured Tracks
Working With The Rain
Can’t Hide Beautiful
Album: 231 Kensington Road
This is a story of survival, rediscovery, and the courage to rise again — even when life tries to take everything away.
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