Meet Paola Gladys Arcieri

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

Hi Paola Gladys, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Despite what most people think, I love being the different one! I never wanted to blend in or conform just because—well, maybe only when I was 12! Everything I do has to hold meaning that aligns with who I am, what I love, and what I believe in. What works for me is unique and makes sense to me. Many successful people are distinctive characters, and I believe one of the most admired qualities in them is their confidence in being different. For instance, being an Italian in a foreign continent was, at first, a source of insecurity for me—especially because the music genre I do (Soul/Funk/Rnb/Jazz) isn’t very common for someone from where I’m from. But over time, I’ve realized that I should be proud of what I’m able to accomplish here. My background, my culture, and my individuality aren’t obstacles—they’re what hopefully make me stand out. Instead of trying to fit into a mold, I focus on bringing something new to the table and being unapologetically myself. “Mixing” is definitely one of my favorite words haha I love things that are blended and intertwined—whether it’s food, cultures, styles, or musical influences, everything becomes more beautiful, more elevated, and more captivating when it’s a fusion of different elements. It’s like a painting: a flat brushstroke doesn’t evoke the same emotions as a textured one, where you can see the different layers, the veins of color, the gritty depth.

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?

I’m a singer, producer, DJ, visual artist, and actress from Bari, Puglia, Italy. I moved to the U.S. eight years ago. Not to sound corny, but creativity is the lens through which I see the world for real—it keeps me going, fuels my energy, introduces me to new people, and constantly throws me into new situations. No gig is ever the same, which means I’m always being challenged, adapting, and growing, both as an artist and as a person. Of course, it’s not always a walk in the park! Sometimes there are some little doggy presents in that park! Every gig requires a different level of preparation, repertoire, research—setting up equipment, making sure everything runs smoothly, and always bringing my best, both in terms of energy and how I present myself. Right now, I’m focused on expanding my music and artistic projects, experimenting with new ideas, and collaborating with inspiring people. You can find me every Saturday at the Bourbon in Glendale LA, for my DJ set from 7 to 10 pm! If you wanna catch me singing with my band you should stop by the Rhythm Room in DTLA once a month on a Friday (check my IG for updates). Aaand you can miss the Art Night in DTLA every 1st Thursday of the month if you wanna check out my paintings 🙂

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Again, I don’t wanna sound cliché, but one of the things I value the most is staying present as much as possible. This isn’t just because life happens in the moment, but because every situation has the potential to offer something—whether it’s a career opportunity, a new connection, or even a beautiful friendship. By being fully in the moment, you open yourself up to discovering those possibilities. I truly believe life gives you little clues, and it’s up to you—consciously or unconsciously—to pick them up.

Another key point is finding the balance between humility and knowing who you are. It’s one thing to look up to those who do more or are better than you and be inspired by that. But it’s another thing if that makes you feel discouraged or incapable. Comparing yourself to others negatively only limits you. You need to believe in your own ability to grow and keep pushing forward.

Lastly, always be in a state of evolution. Never stay stagnant or stuck at one point. The world, the industry, and your personal growth are constantly changing. If you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind. Keep learning, adapting, and growing.

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

It does happen pretty often that I feel overwhelmed! Especially when I’m PMSing—it’s even more challenging because I’m dealing with my new personality, my hormones, and my ability to focus, which is basically zero! It’s a bit crazy because I end up stressing even more just thinking about adding stress to my body, haha! But in those moments of clarity, I tell myself that if I really want to, I can make time to do everything… Then I start rationalizing by making a list of what I need to do, prioritizing them by importance and deadlines. And at the end of the day, I remind myself that nothing is that deep!

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Image Credits

Lorren Chiodo

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