Meet Brianna Shelko

We recently connected with Brianna Shelko and have shared our conversation below.

Brianna, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

For me, imposter syndrome showed up early — especially since I started writing songs at just 7 years old. I often felt like I had to “prove” that my work and ideas were valid, even as I gained more experience.

What helped me overcome it was shifting my perspective. Instead of comparing myself to others or waiting for permission to call myself a “real songwriter,” I started focusing on the impact my music had on people. If a song connected with someone, if it moved them, if it told their story in a way that resonated — that was the validation I needed.

Another key turning point was founding Level Up Music Productions. Creating a boutique space where I could shape custom music and sonic experiences forced me to own my artistry. I realized that my uniqueness — the 26 years of practice, growth, and perspective — couldn’t be duplicated. That gave me confidence that my place in the industry wasn’t about comparison, but contribution.

Now, instead of silencing that little voice of doubt, I’ve learned to use it as fuel. When imposter syndrome creeps in, it reminds me I’m still pushing myself into new territory — and that’s where the best art gets made.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’ve been a songwriter for 26 years, ever since I first picked up the pen at 7 years old. Today, I run Level Up Music Productions, a boutique music and sonic experience company where we craft custom compositions, sound design, and productions that help artists, brands, and creatives bring their visions to life. What excites me most is creating music that doesn’t just sound good — it tells a story, creates an atmosphere, and connects with people on a deeper level.

In early 2024, I expanded this vision by founding a nonprofit, Level Up Songwriting Camps Corp (501c3). This organization was born from a passion to pour back into the songwriting community. Our mission is simple but powerful: to empower and elevate songwriters. We organize sync songwriting camps across the country and globally, giving independent songwriters the chance to write for TV and film — not because of who they know or how much money they have, but because of their raw talent.

We’re dismantling the “fake gates” that too often keep talented creators on the outside. By raising the funding needed to cover the basics, we make it possible for songwriters to join these camps at no cost. That way, they can focus purely on their craft, building community, and creating songs that might just become the soundtrack to someone’s favorite show or film.

At the heart of both Level Up Music Productions and Level Up Songwriting Camps is the same belief: music should be accessible, authentic, and transformative. That’s the legacy I’m building — one project and one songwriter at a time.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I’d say the three biggest things that shaped my journey are persistence, adaptability, and relationships.

Persistence, because songwriting isn’t easy — you get a lot of no’s before you get the right yes. I just kept showing up, writing, and growing.

Adaptability, because music and technology are always changing, and I had to stay curious and keep learning so I didn’t get stuck in one way of doing things.

And relationships, because at the end of the day, this is a people business. The best opportunities I’ve had came from genuine connections and collaboration, not just trying to “network.”

For anyone starting out, I’d say: keep writing even when it’s hard, stay curious, and focus on building real relationships — those three things will carry you far. And finally, I pray really hard and keep my faith at the forefront of everything I do.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Absolutely — collaboration is at the heart of everything I do. Right now, we’re especially looking for investors and partners who share our vision of scaling Level Up Music Productions and empowering the creative economy. Our goal isn’t just to grow a company, but to expand opportunities for independent songwriters and producers in ways that are sustainable, inclusive, and transformative.

Beyond investors, we’re always open to connecting with fellow creatives, music supervisors, brands, and organizations who believe in the power of authentic music and want to collaborate on projects that leave a lasting impact.

If you’re reading this and want to connect, the best way is through our website or socials — or simply reach out directly. We love working with people who are passionate about music, innovation, and community, and we’d be excited to explore how we can create something meaningful together.

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