What does it really mean to be both the producer and the talent? Event producer, musician, and Soho Works events manager Monique Siaw shares how she’s built a career out of bringing other people’s visions to life, while honoring her own. In this episode, she and Kara talk about music, identity, ambition, and what it takes to build spaces where real community and collaboration can thrive. Monique reflects on lessons from the gig economy, why she sets boundaries around her time and energy, and how she’s learning to take up space unapologetically. Whether you’re planning your next event or plotting your next chapter, Monique’s story is full of powerful reminders: rest is productive, your silence won’t protect you, and just because you’re free doesn’t mean you’re available.

Chapters:

00:00 When you're the producer vs. when you're the talent

01:30 What it means to really "handle business"

03:15 Producing her first events as a musician

05:30 The power of saying no and setting limits

07:00 What makes Soho Works different from Soho House

09:10 Helping entrepreneurs connect, grow, and collaborate

11:00 The NYC small business recovery landscape

13:00 What small business owners actually need

15:30 Music as an entry point and a healing force

18:00 Building a purpose-driven events career

21:00 How to protect your energy and your time

25:00 Leading with flexibility, curiosity, and connection

29:00 On being okay with shining brighter

31:00 The difference between fitting in and belonging

34:00 How Monique recharges (and sets boundaries)

40:00 What she’s calling in: women-centered spaces & creative collabs

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices