Meet Emma Hill

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Emma Hill. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Emma, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

I was raised in a tiny village in rural Alaska by parents who had always known hard work. So much of what they did was to build a future where my brother and I could have an opportunity to do anything we set our minds to. I never take that for granted.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

As an artist, business owner and non-profit founder, I’m deeply committed to creating and sustaining a meaningful, inclusive, and supportive arts environment here in Anchorage. Combining my work as a songwriter and performer with my passion for community, I’ve focused on building spaces where music and art are treated as central, transformative experiences that connect us all. With Spenard Song Circle and Rage City Vintage, I wanted to create a community that feels welcoming to everyone, especially young and emerging artists, low-income families, and those looking for a sober, all-ages environment to share in the power of creativity.

In each event we organize, I try to center authenticity and connection, providing artists a space to be heard and audiences a chance to engage with the music and stories behind it. Keeping our business local and community-minded at Rage City Vintage has also been such a vital part of this work, as we all share a commitment to making Anchorage’s arts scene accessible and vibrant. This isn’t just about performances; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and creating a supportive network where the arts can thrive.

The retail aspect of Rage City Vintage is so much more than a store. We operate as a collective, housing 150+ small and micro businesses and vendors out of our space. While our focus is vintage clothing, art and home decor, we also represent many local artists, creators and makers by selling their wares in our space.

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?

1) Authenticity: Staying true to myself and my values has been a guiding force. I’ve found that when you show up as your authentic self, people are more likely to trust you and connect with what you’re creating. My advice for others is to focus on what genuinely excites and fulfills you. Don’t try to mold yourself to fit trends or what you think others expect. People recognize and are drawn to genuine passion and purpose, so let your true self guide your work.

2) Community-Centered Vision: Building both Rage City Vintage and Spenard Song Circle was always about creating a space where vendors, artists, and audiences could genuinely connect. Prioritizing the needs and values of the community over personal ambition has made RCV into a space that resonates with people. For anyone just starting, I recommend focusing on what you can give to your community rather than what you can get. Understand the people you want to serve and design something that truly benefits you all—we win when we all win.

3) Asking for Help: One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of reaching out for support. Building both Rage City Vintage and Spenard Song Circle has taught me that no one can do everything alone, and asking for help doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re investing in your project’s strength. With RCV, I got incredibly lucky by finding a truly phenomenal business partner. My advice to those just starting out is to surround yourself with people who believe and share in your mission and aren’t afraid to offer their insight, skills, or encouragement. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance or collaborate with others; leaning on your community makes your vision more sustainable and fosters deeper connections along the way.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to provide a foundation of support, values, and practical skills that empowered me to pursue my dreams. They instilled in me a strong work ethic, showing me the importance of dedication, persistence, and showing up fully in everything I do. Financial understanding was another invaluable lesson—they encouraged me to learn how to manage finances, plan wisely, and make decisions that would help sustain my passion. Perhaps most importantly, they were always there when I needed them, offering support in difficult times and reminding me that I wasn’t alone in this journey. Their guidance made me feel both grounded and capable, which has been everything throughout my life and career.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ragecityvintage.com and www.spenardsongcircle.org
• Instagram: @rage.city.vintage and @spenardsongcircle
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spenardsongcircle https://www.facebook.com/ragecityvintage

Image Credits

Ryan Syvertsen, Mackenzie Tubbs, Kurt Reiman