Meet Kay Cote

 

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kay Cote a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kay, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

Being a woman in the male-dominated music industry has taught me the importance of effective communication, resilience, empathy, and staying true to my values. It hasn’t always been easy, but learning to articulate my ideas clearly, listen actively, and build strong relationships has helped me thrive. Developing a thick skin has been essential for handling criticism, but I’ve found strength in balancing that with empathy, which helps me connect with others and foster collaboration. Above all, staying grounded in my passion and values has guided me through challenges and kept me authentic. To women in the industry: your voice matters, even if you’re the only one in the room—stay true to yourself and take up space confidently.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

As a multifaceted creative entrepreneur in the music space, I’ve always believed in the power of connection—between people, ideas, and the music that moves us. That belief led me to found Amplify EDM, a company with a dual purpose: to help businesses and nonprofits create unforgettable experiences through curated events, and to provide a platform for artists to showcase their music and grow in their careers.

What excites me most about Amplify EDM is the way it bridges the gap between artistry and industry. We’re not just an event planning company; we’re a resource for businesses to bring their visions to life and a community where artists find the tools and support to thrive. Whether it’s organizing a corporate gala, a nonprofit fundraiser, or a DJ-led parties, our events are designed to leave a lasting impression.

But Amplify EDM is more than the events we create—it’s a movement. Our media arm, including a podcast and other content channels, amplifies the voices of up-and-coming artists while building connections with fans and industry leaders. We’re proud to foster an environment where creativity is celebrated, whether on stage, on-air, or behind the scenes.

Additionally, we’re scaling our operations to host multiple events on any given weekend and exploring partnerships that will elevate both our brand and the artists we work with. Amplify EDM isn’t just growing—we’re evolving to meet the needs of a diverse and dynamic industry.

At the heart of it all, Amplify EDM remains a celebration of people, music, and the experiences that bring us together. Whether you’re a business looking to host an unforgettable event or an artist ready to take the next step, we’re here to make it happen.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey in the music industry, three key skills have been instrumental: effective communication, active listening, and understanding human behavior. Communication has been my foundation, whether in business deals, podcast interviews, or partnerships. Approaching conversations with clarity and empathy has not only opened doors but also built meaningful connections.

Active listening, a skill I’ve honed as a podcaster, has been equally impactful. It’s taught me to truly hear others, see from their perspectives, and create conversations that drive results. This skill isn’t just for interviews; it’s vital in daily interactions, where understanding others can lead to powerful collaborations.

Understanding human behavior has been another game-changer. I’ve immersed myself in books, podcasts, and articles to learn about relationships and communication. Combining this knowledge with the golden rule—treating others as I’d want to be treated—has helped me navigate challenges and build lasting partnerships.

For those starting their journey, my advice is simple: stay curious and keep learning. Dive into resources like books and podcasts that resonate with you. Use real-life experiences to practice and reflect, journaling your insights along the way. Seek guidance from mentors or coaches, and don’t forget to celebrate your progress. Success in relationships takes time, so enjoy the journey and cherish those who align with your values.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

Overwhelm is a common companion in the events and media space. With so many moving parts, endless communication, and long hours, it’s easy to feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Over the years, I’ve learned to recognize the signs of overwhelm—forgetfulness, irritation, low energy—and take proactive steps to manage it.

The first step is pausing to address the feeling head-on. When I feel the weight building, I journal and ask myself: Why am I feeling overwhelmed right now? Writing it down allows me to acknowledge my feelings, identify the root cause, and find a clear path forward. From there, I evaluate my priorities and delegate or postpone anything that isn’t urgent, freeing up my energy to focus on what truly matters.

I’ve also discovered the power of celebrating accomplishments, no matter how small. Recently, after throwing an event filled with challenges and uncertainties, I found myself overwhelmed—not with stress, but with gratitude. Standing back and watching the crowd’s joy brought a tear to my eye. That moment reminded me why I do what I do and gave me strength for the challenges ahead.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember this: take a moment to pause, reflect, and reset. Journaling, prioritizing, and celebrating wins can help shift your mindset. And most importantly, allow yourself moments of gratitude—they’re often the fuel that keeps us going.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Muzquiz Photography, Chris Hillman.photography

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