The ZarahRocks Show

Zarah and Anastasia Popstefanova (EP. 124)

 The conversation features host Zarah (Zarah Maillard) interviewing Anastasia Popstefanova, a young and talented vocalist from Bulgaria, discussing her journey in music, her experiences in competitions, and her passion for singing. Anastasia shares insights about her love for music, her relationship with her vocal coach, and her participation in the Arlekin International Youth Media Festival. The conversation explores Anastasia's journey as a young performer, her experiences on stage, and her aspirations in the music industry. It highlights her positive attitude towards performance, dealing with criticism, and the importance of perseverance and self-belief.

 Key Topics/Takeaways

• Anastasia's early love for music and singing
• Her journey from Bulgaria to international recognition
• The importance of practice and passion in developing talent
• Her experience at the Harlequin International Youth Media Festival
• Her dreams of performing with Ariana Grande and making people happy
• The role of supportive mentors and close relationships in growth
• Handling nerves and stage presence as a young performer
• The significance of staying true to oneself and perseverance

Chapters

• 00:00  Introduction and Anastasia's background
• 01:58  What inspired Anastasia to love singing
• 03:00  Her early musical influences and family background
• 05:10  Starting her journey at age five and early lessons
• 07:00  Her achievements and participation in youth festivals
• 09:00  Her songwriting inspiration and creative process
• 11:01  The importance of mentorship and her relationship with her coach
• 12:53  Performing live and managing stage nerves
• 15:59  Memorable performances and her happiest stage moments
• 17:58  Her biggest dreams and future aspirations
• 21:01 Advice for young aspiring musicians
• 22:59  Her thoughts on the entertainment industry and handling negativity
• 26:05  Her favorite superhero and her admiration for Spider-Man
• 27:59  The role of music in helping others and spreading happiness
• 28:58  Next steps and her plans for the future

Watch it on YouTube!

*  Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at:  

    youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

• Discuss new episodes
• Bring up your own challenges in life
• Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next interview
• Start your own conversation, and join my community here: youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

 Support Our Show

• To support our edutainment-driven podcast and help improve the lives of the younger generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to www.zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

Zarah and Matey Beshendzhiev (EP. 123)

In this episode, young Bulgarian artist Matey's Beshendzhiev discusses the role of music in personal expression, the importance of seizing opportunities, and the influences that shape an artist's journey with host Zarah (Zarah Maillard). They explore Matey's aspirations as a performer, his musical inspirations, and his approach to collaboration and conflict resolution, as the 2026 Arlekin International Youth Festival’s Music Competition Winner. Matey shares his admiration for various artists and discusses the significance of collaboration in the music industry. The dialogue also emphasizes honoring music legends and the importance of perseverance and passion in chasing his dream.

 Key Topics/Takeaways

• Matey's experience at the Harlequin International Youth Media Festival
• His musical influences, including Christina Aguilera and Limp Bizkit
• The importance of seizing opportunities and not waiting
• His dreams of signing with a big record label and touring globally
• The role of music as a therapeutic and expressive outlet
• Handling conflicts and challenges in the industry with positivity
• The significance of legacy and respecting musical legends
• His aspirations to collaborate with top artists like Beyoncé and Jesse J

Chapters

•  00:00  Introduction to Matey Beshendjiev and his journey
• 02:48  Matey's experience at the Harlequin International Youth Media Festival
• 06:21  Musical influences and starting in music
• 08:52  Why seizing opportunities matters
• 12:46  Dreams of signing with a big record label
• 16:51  Inspiration from artists like Christina Aguilera and Limp Bizkit
• 20:23  Meeting Dara Ekimova and future collaborations
• 23:21  The importance of perseverance and positive attitude
• 27:53  Handling conflicts and challenges in the industry
• 28:52  Matey's secret wish list and future aspirations
• 36:53  Respecting musical legends and industry insights
• 37:21  Dealing with negativity and industry challenges
• 40:47 The power of music to inspire and uplift
• 44:20  Final thoughts and encouragement for young artists

 Watch it on YouTube!

• Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at:      youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

 Join My Community

• Discuss new episodes
• Bring up your own challenges in life
• Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next interview
• Start your own conversation and join my community here: youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

 Support Our Show

• To support our edutainment-driven podcast and help improve the lives of the younger generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to: zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact: [email protected]

Zarah and Ben Carey (EP. 122)

The conversation with guitarist Ben Carey and host Zarah (Zarah Maillard) covers his journey from a professional basketball player to a successful musician, highlighting the impact of music on his life and the challenges he faced. It also explores his family's influence on his musical journey and the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset in the music industry. The conversation covers the importance of seizing opportunities and the evolving definition of success. It also delves into personal relationships, family dynamics, and the pursuit of happiness through passion and commitment. The conversation delves into the importance of setting boundaries, living in the moment, and appreciating life. It also explores the value of attitude, fulfillment, and the impact of life experiences on perspective. Additionally, it touches on the challenges of modern parenting and the significance of genuine relationships.

Key Topics/Takeaways

·       Passion for Music

·       Family Influence

·       Entrepreneurial Mindset: Seizing opportunities

·       The evolving definition of success: Boundaries and self-care

·       Attitude and fulfillment

Chapters

·       00:00 The Journey Begins

·       02:01 Family Influence and Musical Passion

·       05:08 The Impact of Music on Life

·       09:57 Transition from Basketball to Music

·       19:53 The Entrepreneurial Mindset in Music

·       26:21 Seizing Opportunities

·       33:55 The Journey from Basketball to Music

·       44:30 The Evolving Definition of Success

·       51:11 Personal Relationships and Family Dynamics

·       56:06 Setting Boundaries and Self-Care

·       57:08 Living in the Moment and Appreciating Life

·       59:27 Attitude and Fulfillment

·       01:07:05 Challenges of Modern Parenting

·       01:19:05 Genuine Relationships

Watch it on YouTube!

*  Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at:  

    youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

*  Discuss new episodes

*  Bring up your own challenges in life

*  Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next

    interview

*  Start your own conversation, and join my community here:

   youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

Support Our Show

*  To support our edutainment-driven podcast and help improve the lives of the    

    younger

    generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to:

    zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

    [email protected]

Zarah and Ben Carey (EP. 121)

In this engaging conversation, world-class guitarist and writer Ben Carey shares his journey with host Zarah (Zarah Maillard) from aspiring basketball player to successful musician with Savage Garden. He discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the importance of preparation and hard work, and how success is defined differently for everyone. Ben emphasizes the value of relationships and the need to enjoy life, while also imparting wisdom on creating opportunities and the significance of personal growth.

Key Topics/Takeaways

• Determination and self-worth
• Impact on cultural and historical events
• Songwriting is about creating a connection that resonates with people.
• A hit song is one that leaves a lasting impression and connects with the audience.

Chapters

•  00:00 Technical Troubles
• 01:08 Life's Unexpected Turns
• 02:01 The Passion for Music
• 03:24 The Business of Music
• 04:09 The Email Struggle
• 05:08 The Love for the Process
• 06:16 Family Influence
• 08:14 The Guitar Deal
• 09:12 The Impact of Choices
• 10:13 Musical Family Legacy
• 12:36 The Love for Music
• 13:59 Brotherly Bond
• 15:30 Artistic Family
• 17:59 The Evolution of Music
• 19:23 The Commitment to Success
• 23:17 The Basketball Journey
• 26:21 Life's Trajectory and Choices
• 33:55 The Pursuit of Dreams

Watch it on YouTube!

*  Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at: youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

• Discuss new episodes
• Bring up your own challenges in life
• Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next interview
• Start your own conversation, and join my community here:

   youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

Support Our Show

• To support our edutainment-driven podcast and help improve the lives of the younger generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to:

  zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

  [email protected]

Zarah and Peter Rafelson (EP. 120)

The conversation covers platinum award-winning writer and producer Peter Rafelson's journey as a musician, songwriter, and entrepreneur, highlighting his Hollywood royalty family background, early exposure to the music industry, and his unconventional path to success. Peter and host Zarah (Zarah Maillard) also delve into the story behind his hit song 'Open Your Heart,' which he wrote for Madonna, and its lasting impact not just socially and culturally but also on world history. The conversation delves into the essence of songwriting, the elements of a hit song, and the importance of seizing opportunities. It also explores the significance of purpose in life and how life-changing events can shift one's perspective.

Key Topics/Takeaways

• Determination and self-worth
• Impact on cultural and historical events
• Songwriting is about creating a connection that resonates with people.
• A hit song is one that leaves a lasting impression and connects with the audience.

Chapters

00:00 Early Exposure to the Music and Film Industry

07:50 Challenges and Success in the Music Industry

15:01 The Journey to Becoming a Songwriter and Producer

38:24 The Impact of Open Your Heart on Cultural History

41:34 The Essence of Songwriting

45:29 The Elements of a Hit Song

50:58 The Significance of Purpose in Life

01:06:00 Life-Changing Events and Perspective

Zarah and Peter Rafelson (EP. 119)

This inspirational episode covers Peter Rafelson's journey as a music legend who comes from a rich lineage of Hollywood royalty, wrote and produced hits for major artists like Madonna, Britney Spears, Stevie Nicks, and Elton John, and has sold over 300 million records worldwide. It also covers his challenges and triumphs in the music industry as shared with host Zarah (Zarah Maillard). The conversation delves into the story behind the song 'Open Your Heart' he wrote for Madonna, and its impact on world history. It talks about the essence of songwriting, the elements of a hit song, and the importance of purpose and legacy in life. Peter Rafelson shares insights, wisdom, and life lessons on creating valuable connections, the significance of a song's impact, and the role of marketing in the music industry. He also reflects on life-changing moments and the pursuit of purpose.

Key Topics/Takeaways

A hit song leaves a lasting impression, resonating with people long after they hear it.

• Journey of independence and risk-taking
• The impact of determination and self-belief The essence of a hit

song is its ability to be remembered for a lifetime.

• Success in the music industry requires talent, marketing, and

opportunity.

• Regrets often stem from missed opportunities and the failure to

seize them.

• Discovering purpose and aligning decisions with that purpose can

lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Reunion

07:09 Family Background and Early Influences

10:23 Challenges and Survival

14:49 The Story of 'Open Your Heart'

37:28 The Impact and Legacy

41:34 The Essence of Songwriting

45:29 The Elements of a Hit Song

50:58 Purpose and Legacy in Life

Watch it on YouTube!

• Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at: youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

• Discuss new episodes
• Bring up your own challenges in life
• Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next

    interview

• Start your own conversation, and join my community here:

   youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

Support Our Show

• To support our edutainment-driven podcast and help improve the lives of the younger

    generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to:

    zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

    [email protected]

Zarah and Jade Fink (EP. 118)

The conversation between host Zarah (Zarah Maillard) and Jade Fink covers Jade's journey as a musician, her experiences with the School of Rock, her challenges, and the impact of her tours on her life and career. Jade Fink shares her journey from feeling misunderstood and out of place to finding her sense of belonging and confidence through School of Rock. She discusses the challenges of being a female musician in a male-dominated industry and the importance of representation. She reflects on her growth as a musician and the impact of School of Rock on her professional career, including her experiences on national television shows. Zarah and Jade cover her experience with live TV and studio recording, her advice for aspiring musicians, and her future aspirations. It also delves into her songwriting process and her passion for playing bass. The conversation highlights the importance of perseverance, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of happiness in one's career and personal life.

Key Topics/Takeaways

• Passion for music drives Jade's success
• Challenges, setbacks snd Jade's resilience and determination.
• School of Rock provided a sense of community and acceptance for Jade.
• Jade highlights the challenges faced by female musicians in a male-dominated industry.
• School of Rock prepared Jade for her professional career on how to handle the pressures of live performances and television appearances, Live TV and studio recording for performers.
• Perseverance, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of happiness are crucial in a music career.
• Jade Fink’s experiences and emotions inspire her songwriting process, and she is passionate about playing bass.

Chapters

• 00:00 Jade's Musical Journey
• 04:27 Family Involvement in School of Rock
• 06:07 Professional Career and Early Success
• 10:13 Overcoming Fear and Performance
• 16:48 Lessons from School of Rock Programs
• 22:19 Meaning of Tours and Success
• 26:23 Challenges and Resilience
• 28:14 Finding Belonging and Confidence
• 33:02 Challenges in the Music Industry
• 48:50 Preparation and Growth
• 01:03:34 Challenges of Live TV and Studio Recording
• 01:06:23 Advice for Aspiring Musicians
• 01:10:07 Dreams and Aspirations for the Future
• 01:14:49 Songwriting Process and Passion for Bass

Watch it on YouTube!

*  Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at:

youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

*  Discuss new episodes

*  Bring up your own challenges in life

*  Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next

    interview

*  Start your own conversation, and join my community here:

   youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

Support Our Show

*  To support our edutainment-driven podcast and help improve the lives of the younger

    generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to:

    zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

    [email protected]

Zarah and Jade Fink (EP. 117)

Jade Fink shares her inspiring journey with host Zarah (Zarah Maillard) from childhood to becoming a professional musician, highlighting the importance of community, resilience, and staying true to oneself. Discover how her experiences at School of Rock and her touring career shaped her confidence and life perspective. In this episode, Jade reflects on how the school prepared her for a professional music career, playing for major artists such as Cannons, NoSo, and Ingrid Andress on national television and the challenges she faced. The conversation begins with the host setting the stage and ensuring technical readiness. It then delves into her early musical journey, including her first performance at the Whiskey a Go go, and her journey to live TV. The discussion then shifts to the lessons learned from the School of Rock, the significance of tours, her challenges and dreams, and her future aspirations. It's a story of growth, perseverance, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment.

Key Topics/Takeaways

• Passion for music
• Challenges and perseverance
• Belonging and Community
• Confidence and Self-Expression
• Live TV and studio recording
• Chasing a music career

Chapters

     00:00  Introduction and Jade's background

     02:00  Touring the world and appreciating home

     03:59  Early musical education and family influence

     06:00  Joining School of Rock and family involvement

     08:10  Realizing the fulfillment of a music career

     09:48  First performance at Whiskey Gogo and overcoming nerves

     13:05  The impact of that performance on her life

     15:58  Lessons from the School of Rock programs

     19:01  Building confidence and community through music

     22:02  The significance of touring and global experiences

     25:02  Overcoming challenges and staying true to oneself

     28:03  The importance of resilience and adaptability

     31:13  Breaking barriers as a young woman in music

     33:02  The role of community and support in success

Watch it on YouTube!

• Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at: youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

• Discuss new episodes
• Bring up your own challenges in life
• Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next

    interview

• Start your own conversation, and join my community here:

   youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

Support Our Show

• To support our edutainment-driven podcast and help improve the lives of the younger generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to:

    zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

    [email protected]

Zarah and Ray Parker, Jr. (EP. 116)

In this insightful interview, Ray Parker Jr. shares his journey through the music and film industry, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, authenticity, and the power of a plan A mindset with host Zarah (Zarah Maillard). Discover lessons on career development, industry challenges, and personal growth from a legendary artist. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the challenges faced by younger generations, the role of entertainment in addressing social issues, the importance of life challenges, the impact of real-life experience, the influence of younger generations in arts and entertainment, the experience of working in the entertainment industry, lessons from working in the entertainment industry, the challenges of transitioning to film, and a comparison of music recording and film production. The conversation covers the challenges of acting, the aesthetics of casting, creating your own opportunities, the reality of acting, the truth about fame, behind-the-scenes stories, the camera never lies, making America high again, the power of determination, and looking forward to the future.

Chapters

00:00  Learning from Mistakes

03:10  Memorable Experiences in Music

07:28  The Challenges of Acting vs. Music

09:15  The Differences in Creative Control

10:26  The Aesthetics of Casting

11:00  The Reality of On-Screen Chemistry

17:22  The Importance of Authenticity in Performance

17:34  Choosing Between Success and Impact

18:40  Legacy and Positive Influence

19:13  Navigating the Changing Music Industry

20:31  The Personal Touch in Songwriting

23:19  Advice for Aspiring Artists

29:47  Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Key Topics/Takeaways

• The importance of determination and pursuing plan A mindset in career success
• The impact of real-life experience on personal and professional growth
• Industry challenges and overcoming obstacles
• The value of real-life experience over formal education
• The truth about fame and the challenges of the acting industry.

Watch it on YouTube!

• *Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at: youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

• Discuss new episodes
• Bring up your own challenges in life
• Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next interview
• Start your own conversation, and join my community here:

   youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

Support Our Show

• To support our self-empowering edutainment podcast and help improve the lives of the younger generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to:

    zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

    [email protected]

Zarah and Ray Parker, Jr. (EP. 115)

Join us for an inspiring conversation with legendary musician Ray Parker Jr. as he shares his journey from childhood prodigy to global icon, the stories behind hits like “Ghostbusters,” and his insights into the future of the music industry with host Zarah (Zarah Maillard). Discover lessons on perseverance, creativity, and staying true to your passion. The conversation covers the challenges and benefits for the younger generation, the impact of social media, Ray Parker Jr.'s career, and his experiences. Ray Parker Jr. shares insights into his experiences as a songwriter and musician, including the creation of the hit song 'Ghostbusters' and the challenges he faced in the music industry. He also discusses the need for change in the industry and the importance of supporting young musicians.

Key Topics

• Challenges and benefits of the younger generation
• Impact of social media on kids
• Ray Parker Jr.'s career and experiences
• Creation of the iconic song 'Ghostbusters' Songwriting Insights
• Challenges in the Music Industry
• Supporting Young Musicians

Chapters

00:00  The Journey Begins: Ray Parker Jr.'s Early Life

02:33  The Rise to Fame: Collaborations with Legends

05:08  The Birth of an Icon: Creating Ghostbusters

07:48  Reflections on Career Choices and Fulfillment

16:22  Navigating Grief and Resilience

17:37  Challenges in the Music Industry

20:11  The Impact of Music Piracy

22:07  The Need for Change in Artist Compensation

24:37  Reviving Live Music and Real Bands

26:06  The Importance of Music Education

28:50  Learning from Mistakes

Watch it on YouTube!

• Subscribe and watch our weekly episodes at: youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow

Join My Community

• Discuss new episodes
• Bring up your own challenges in life
• Suggest questions to the who’s who of Hollywood guests for my next interview
• Start your own conversation, and join my community here:

   youtube.com/@TheZarahRocksShow/community

Support Our Show

*  To support our self-empowering podcast and help improve the lives of the younger

    generation for The ZarahRocks Show, please go to:

    zarahrocks.com/podcast and contact:

    [email protected]