The Stiletto Room

To close out Season One of The Stiletto Room, I wanted someone who embodies purpose, softness, strength, and divine timing — and that woman is Liz Hernandez.Liz is an Emmy-nominated television host, longtime radio voice of LA, founder of Wordiful, and one of the most intentional humans I know. In this deeply personal conversation, we trace her journey from taping fake radio interviews in her childhood bedroom to becoming a voice millions wake up to — and the life-altering detours that shaped her purpose along the way.We talk manifestation, intuition, and trusting your gut — including turning down MTV’s move to New York, caring for her mother through dementia, and how grief gave birth to Wordiful, a movement built on the power of language, gratitude, and connection. Liz opens up about burnout, nervous system healing, boundaries, motherhood energy, losing her soul dog, and learning how to finally put herself back on the list.This episode is about words — the ones we speak, the ones we lose, and the ones that save us. It’s about choosing peace, honoring grief, and remembering that you are already enough.This is how you end a season — with truth, heart, and intention.About Liz HernandezLiz Hernandez is a Mexican-American Emmy-nominated television personality, radio broadcaster, and journalist. As of 2022, Liz Hernandez has returned to her first love, radio, as the morning show host for 94.7 The Wave (KTWV-FM) in Los Angeles.As a SoCal native, Liz started her entertainment career as a radio host on the Power 106 FM nationally syndicated show, Big Boy’s Neighborhood. After hosting for 10 years, she moved on to TV entertainment news as a host and correspondent for Access Hollywood, E! News, and MTV.Liz is also the creator of WORDAFUL, a content and live event series and membership platform that focuses on the importance of how we can communicate with ourselves and others.WORDAFUL is derived from the phrase, “Words are powerful.” It is a new form of storytelling that encourages and connects us to the power of words. We can create new realities for ourselves by changing our internal and external dialogue—ones that support more meaningful relationships and lives.

What happens when one of the most influential cultural forces of the last 40 years walks into The Stiletto Room? Baby, you get Flavor Flav — rapper, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, icon, activist, reality TV pioneer, and one of the realest humans alive.And let me be clear: Flav isn’t just America’s hype man — he’s an American treasure. A living, breathing reminder of what it looks like to turn survival into joy, pain into purpose, and personality into pure cultural impact.In this electrifying, emotional, hilarious, historic conversation, I sit down with Flav as he takes us from Public Enemy’s early days and his brotherhood with Chuck D, to grief and legacy, to watching politics shift from “fun” to “dangerous.” We talk Ruby Bridges, civil rights, community impact, and yes — Flav sponsoring the U.S. Olympic water polo team (and getting in the pool himself).Then we go deep: sobriety, relapse, honesty, redemption. Flav opens up about his mom, his guardian angels, and why secrets keep people stuck — and how telling the truth is what sets you free.And of course… the Taylor Swift era. The friendship bracelets. The “King Swifty” coronation. The kids losing their minds when they see him.This episode is history, humor, heart, and healing wrapped in a clock the size of a dinner plate. Flavor Flav isn’t just a legend — he’s a lesson in survival, joy, and pure authenticity.Expect big laughs, real vulnerability, and a reminder that icons aren’t made by perfection—icons are made by impact. Yeah boyyyyy!About Flavor FlavFlavor Flav is the most iconic hype man in history and one of the most recognizable legends in entertainment. A musical prodigy proficient in 15 instruments, he rose to fame in the late ’80s as a co-founder of the legendary hip-hop group Public Enemy. Possessing one of the most sampled voices in hip-hop history, Flav and Public Enemy were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 62nd GRAMMY Awards in 2020. Beyond music, Flav became a reality TV phenomenon with Flavor of Love, VH1’s highest-rated show of all time and a defining pop-culture milestone of the era. In 2024, he made headlines worldwide as the first individual to sponsor a U.S. Olympic team, serving as official sponsor and hype man for the men’s and women’s water polo teams through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He continues to use his platform to advocate for mental health, sobriety, humanitarian rights, and women’s sports, inspiring audiences across generations worldwide.

What happens when one of your closest friends — and one of the most fearless humans you know — sits down in The Stiletto Room? You get Chaz Bono, baby. Actor, activist, producer, trailblazer, and someone I’ve walked through sobriety, transformation, and truth with for decades.In this raw, powerful, beautifully honest conversation, Chaz opens up about growing up as the child of Sonny & Cher, navigating identity long before the world had language for it, and what it really took to step into himself at 40 years old. We talk about transition, chosen family, the brutal political climate, LGBTQ+ rights, the fear and freedom of hormones, and how activism becomes a lifeline — not a choice.Chaz shares how acting saved him, how independent horror became his unexpected creative playground, and why living authentically at ANY age is not just possible — it’s non-negotiable.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt “different,” anyone who’s ever had to fight for their place in the world, and anyone who believes in living boldly, bravely, and unapologetically.About Chaz BonoChaz Bono is an American character actor and activist, and the only child of famed entertainers Sonny and Cher. He is best known for his work on American Horror Story and Curb Your Enthusiasm. An acclaimed author, Bono has written three books, including NY Times Best Sellers, Family Outing 1998, and Transition published by Dutton in 2011, a candid account of a forty-year struggle to match his gender identity. Adding to his multiple hyphenated talents, he has shared his life and experiences in, and produced the three-time Emmy nominated documentary, "Becoming Chaz."Bono has a rich history of advocating for LGBTQ rights, having worked for two national LGBTQ organizations, and as public speaker on college campuses and at events around the world. He continues to be a strong voice the for LGBTQ community, and is a passionate champion of equality for all Americans, especially those discriminated against and targeted because of race, religion, sex, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity. In 2012 Bono decided to pursue his lifelong dream to have a career as a character actor. He’s guest stared in the films Dirty, Reborn, Three From Hell, Reboot Camp, The Bell Keeper, and Burry The Bride and Little Bites, which he also produced. Bono has also guest starred on American Horror Story: Roanoke and American Horror Story: Cult, Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Bold and the Beautiful. 

There are artists… and then there are American treasures. And today in The Stiletto Room, I sit down with one of the women who shaped my entire life: Melissa Etheridge.When I tell you her first album catapulted me into my identity, my career, my purpose — baby, that is not an exaggeration. Melissa talks about writing every song herself, getting discovered in a Long Beach women’s bar, breaking through a male-dominated industry, and the moment she realized her authenticity was her superpower long before the world was ready for it.We talk Grammys, Oscars, touring overseas, her iconic Janis Joplin performance at the Grammys while she was still in cancer treatment, and the spiritual awakening that reshaped her entire life. Melissa opens up about manifesting her dreams — including her new album Rise, her duet with Chris Stapleton, and the foundation she created in honor of her son to revolutionize addiction treatment.This conversation is about music, resilience, motherhood, activism, joy, and the wild courage it takes to stay authentic for four decades.Melissa Etheridge doesn’t just inspire — she changes lives. Mine included.ABOUT MELISSA ETHERIDGE:Melissa Etheridge is a Grammy- and Oscar-winning rock icon celebrated for her unmistakable vocals, confessional songwriting, and decades of fearless authenticity. She broke through in 1988 with her self-titled debut and became a defining voice of American rock with hits like “Bring Me Some Water,” “Ain’t It Heavy,” “I’m the Only One,” and the Grammy-winning “Come to My Window.”Her landmark albums Yes I Am and Your Little Secret cemented her place in music history, earning her ASCAP’s Songwriter of the Year. In 2007, she won an Academy Award for “I Need to Wake Up,” written for An Inconvenient Truth. Etheridge has long been a pioneer in LGBTQ+ visibility and cultural impact, famously performing bald at the 2005 Grammys during cancer treatment — a moment that inspired millions.She’s continued to evolve with acclaimed projects like Memphis Rock & Soul, The Medicine Show, and One Way Out. Her powerful solo show My Window debuted Off-Broadway before opening on Broadway in 2023 to critical praise.In 2020, she founded The Etheridge Foundation to advance research and compassionate solutions for opioid use disorder. Her 2024 docuseries and live album I’m Not Broken, recorded inside the Topeka Correctional Facility, showcases the profound healing power of music, storytelling, and connection.

Welcome to a very special Thanksgiving edition of The Stiletto Room, and by special, I mean my children hijacked my show. Yes, baby, this week I’m joined by Buddy, Wilson, and their brilliant (and brutally honest) friend Tallulah Sykes… and let me just say: the turkey is not the only thing getting roasted.In true holiday spirit, we talk about everything, school trends (including the unholy nightmare known as “pepper yucky”), Shark Tank projects, hummingbird sanctuaries, bullying, politics, superpowers, and why Gen Alpha apparently speaks its own language. I try to keep control, but listen… These kids have more opinions than a Thanksgiving dinner table after dessert.We get into phones, friendships, football, Broadway dreams, and gratitude, real gratitude. The kind you feel when you look at your kids, their giant hearts, and their growing sense of justice, and realize: yeah, the next generation might actually save us.This episode is hilarious, chaotic, tender, and full of Thanksgiving heart. A perfect reminder that family, chosen or biological, is messy, loud, loving, and worth every second.About Wilson, Buddy, and TallulahWilson Ray and Buddy Lee LaPolt are Dina LaPolt’s 12-year-old twin boys. Wilson loves street art, making slime, and going to Sephora. Tallulah is his best friend. Buddy loves playing football and basketball and is a model represented by LA Models Jr. They love animals and all together have three dogs; Elsa, Doodles, and Gatsby.Tallulah Sykes 11 years old. Born in New York and raised in Los Angeles. Tallulah loves performing, traveling, making slime, and walking her dog, Baxter. 

In this episode of The Stiletto Room, I sit down with one of my favorite people on the planet - Allison Statter, CEO & Founder of Blended Strategy Group and XOa Fragrance, and devoted boy mom. She is the daughter of my dear friends, legendary music executive Irving Azoff and powerhouse matriarch Shelli Azoff, and she is a true baller in her own right.We get real about what it actually feels like to be stretched in a million directions as working mothers, entrepreneurs, and connectors in an industry that still doesn’t put nearly enough women in the top jobs. Allison talks about what it was like for her growing up Azoff, going on the road in the summers with the Eagles, and how listening in on her dad’s calls and watching her parents build community made the business feel like it was “in her DNA.”Allison breaks down why authentic partnerships beat clout-chasing every time, how her intuition drives fast, decisive choices for brands, and the unglamorous truth about launching and sustaining a business — from Blended Strategy Group to her signature fragrance line, XOa. I share the wild story of my clair-sentient astrologer’s predictions, and we dive into energy, karma, and the power of trusting your gut.This episode is a front-row seat to a conversation between two women who love hard, work hard, and refuse to apologize for being both: mothers, bosses, and believers in our own magic.About Allison StatterAllison Statter launched entertainment marketing agency Blended Strategy Group in 2015 with her business partner Sherry Jhawar. Allison is a forward-thinker with deep experience in talent management. She spent 10+ years at Azoff Music Management where she managed A-list talent such as Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Levine, Jewel and Mariah Carey to name a few. She also led the brand division negotiating major deals with top brands from American Express to L’Oréal, and Weight Watchers among many others. Allison created Blended Strategy to help brands develop integrated 360 marketing initiatives that focus on the unique intersection of brands & talent within pop culture. What started as a celebrity procurement and influencer marketing business now includes Marketing Communications, Social Media and Paid Growth services. BSG’s client roster includes top household names like Shake Shack, Schwarzkopf, OLLY Wellness, and the Radio City Rockettes to talent and founder-led brands like GXVE Beauty by Gwen Stefani, Rael Holistic Cycle Care and Jennifer Meyer Fine Jewelry. Allison currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband and 3 boys.

What happens when you tell a little girl her voice is “weird”? She grows up to be Morgan Wade — one of the most powerful songwriters of her generation.In this brutally honest and deeply moving episode of The Stiletto Room, Dina LaPolt sits down with country-rock phenom Morgan Wade to talk about everything — from growing up in small-town Virginia and discovering Elvis, to battling addiction, rebuilding her life, and rewriting the rules of country music.Morgan opens up about getting sober at 22, the moment that changed everything in New York, and how fitness, discipline, and authenticity became her survival tools. She also talks about the story behind her latest record The Party Is Over (Revisited), her Guinness World Record pull-up goal, and the next chapter of her creative empire.This is Morgan like you’ve never seen her — raw, grounded, and powerful as hell.About Morgan WadeVirginia-born singer-songwriter Morgan Wade has carved out a reputation as one of country music’s most authentic and fearless voices. After breaking through with her debut album Reckless and earning nominations from the Academy of Country Music and Americana Music Association, Wade found herself longing for simplicity amid the chaos of fame and touring.That search for clarity fuels her latest album, Obsessed—a raw, 14-track project written entirely by Wade and produced by her guitarist Clint Wells. Returning to her roots as a storyteller, the record captures themes of love, home, heartbreak, recovery, and self-reflection. From the driving opener “Total Control” to the soulful “2AM in London,” Wade balances the ache of distance with the pull of connection.Highlights include “Moth to a Flame,” a testament to lasting love; “Juliet,” a reimagined tale of forbidden affection; and “Walked on Water,” a stirring duet with Kesha that showcases Wade’s emotional depth, lyrical honesty, and vocal power. Through Obsessed, she chronicles growth, vulnerability, and a reckoning with her past—emerging renewed, grounded, and unapologetically herself.Wade’s evolution proves why she remains one of modern country’s most compelling artists, blending country, Americana, and rock influences into bold, honest storytelling that continues to resonate deeply with fans. Her music speaks to resilience, redemption, and the courage to face change head-on—a reflection of her personal journey toward balance, healing, and artistic freedom.

What happens when the daughter of a rock legend decides to write her own story?In this powerful and emotional episode of The Stiletto Room, I sit down with Jesse Money, daughter of the late, great Eddie Money — my former client and dear friend — to talk about love, loss, recovery, and finding her voice as an artist and woman.We go deep: from life on the road with her dad and the family band, to how the Real Money TV show came to be, to the heartbreak of losing both her father and grandfather — and finding sobriety in the middle of it all. Jesse opens up about carrying her father’s legacy through her new music, her stunning new song “Legacy”, and the moment Eddie told her, “I’m leaving you with my legacy.”This conversation is raw, real, and full of heart — about breaking cycles, honoring family, and finally stepping into your own light.Jesse Money’s Bio:Jesse Money is a singer/songwriter and the daughter of Rock legend Eddie Money. Jesse grew up in the music business, touring alongside her Dad and singing on stage with him since she was a little girl. Her vocal influences range from Etta James to Janis Joplin, Paul Rodgers, and many more, including of course her dad. Jesse's new music is an expression of her journey while going through the different stages of the grief that she experienced after losing her father. Each song on her EP expresses all of the emotions of loss that she went through, while also trying to break through her addiction to drugs and alcohol. Jesse hopes to reach others that are going through similar journeys by sharing her story . Her Rock/Pop sound is raw and soulful, while showcasing the pain and resilience through her songs. Jesse continues to honor her father’s legacy by paying tribute to his music and performing his songs onstage alongside her brother Dez.

What do you do when everyone tells you you’re crazy for leaving a cushy executive job to run a haunted hayride? If you’re Melissa Carbone, you go all in—and end up creating what becomes  the largest Halloween-themed entertainment company in the world.From building LA’s iconic Haunted Hayride out of her own front yard to securing the biggest Shark Tank deal in history with Mark Cuban, Melissa has redefined immersive entertainment. She now co-owns Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, runs attractions across 19 markets, and continues to innovate in live experiences.In this episode of The Stiletto Room, Melissa opens up about her early days in Connecticut, the power of believing in yourself, being a gay woman breaking into a male-dominated industry, and how failure became her superpower. She also teases her next project—an unprecedented event coming to Los Angeles that will be the biggest of its kind.This is a masterclass in risk-taking, resilience, and creativity.Melissa Carbone Bio:Melissa Carbone is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and owner/producer at Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group (TFEG), the largest themed entertainment company in the world. After a decade leading major markets for Clear Channel Media + Entertainment (now iHeart), Melissa founded Ten Thirty One Productions (TTO), the first company to create and produce live horror attractions. She made history on ABC’s Shark Tank with the show’s largest deal, partnering with Mark Cuban and later Live Nation. After selling TTO, she launched Tailgate Fest and Dirt Road Entertainment, while publishing her best-selling book “Ready, Fire, Aim: How I Turned a Hobby into an Empire.” TTO’s LA Haunted Hayride became one of the country’s top independent haunted attractions before Melissa sold the company to TFEG in 2018. Today, TFEG operates in 16 markets with more than 20 attractions, drawing millions of visitors annually to its immersive entertainment experiences. Her Tailgate Fest redefined the country music festival scene, featuring Toby Keith, Florida Georgia Line, Brett Eldredge, Nelly, and Hardy. During the pandemic, she partnered with LA County Parks to produce the first Drive-In Movie Series and launched Boat Cinema, a sellout hit that earned the 2022 “Best Experience” Award. Featured in Forbes, Fortune, Billboard, Rolling Stone, Entrepreneur, Inc., and Bloomberg, Melissa is recognized as a pioneer in immersive entertainment. She lives in Los Angeles with her dogs Macy, Gwen, and Gayle, and loves horror films, country music, and fitness.

You’ve seen the helmet, you’ve heard the music—but you’ve never heard deadmau5 like this. In this episode of The Stiletto Room, Joel Zimmerman (aka deadmau5) sits down with me for a rare, unfiltered conversation about his journey from taking apart TVs as a kid in Ontario to headlining festivals across the globe.Joel opens up about teaching himself computer music before the Internet, creating his own opportunities, and how a fried mouse inside his PC became one of the most iconic names in electronic music. We dive into the business side, too— building his own in-house empire at mau5trap, and the constant reinvention required to stay relevant in a cutthroat industry.This episode isn’t just for EDM fans—it’s for anyone who wants to understand what it takes to build a brand, protect it, and survive the low highs and lows of global fame.About deadmau5Joel Zimmerman, more commonly known as deadmau5 (pronounced “deadmouse”), is one of the world’s most respected electronic music producers of modern times. Enjoying international chart success with his 2x platinum-certified single Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff, as well as Professional Griefers, Sofi Needs a Ladder and I Remember, he has also released seven critically acclaimed albums.The multiple JUNO Award-winning and GRAMMY®-nominated artist’s ability to push the boundaries of his talent grows at an equal rate to his fan base, which counts 15 million and more across his combined social media channels.His latest music offerings include Pomegranate with The Neptunes, Bridged by a Lightwave with Kiesza, Channel 43 with Wolfgang Gartner, Hypnocurrency and Infraliminal (as REZZMAU5) with REZZ, When the Summer Dies with Lights, Hyperlandia featuring Foster the People, this is fine. with Portugal. The Man, XYZ, My Heart Has Teeth featuring Skylar Grey, Jupiter and his latest EP, some ep.In 2022, deadmau5 teamed with longtime friend and collaborator Kaskade on the new music project Kx5, releasing the Top 40 smash and #1 dance music radio single Escape featuring Hayla, leading into the release of their 2023 GRAMMY-nominated debut self-titled album Kx5.deadmau5’s 2019/20 U.S. cubev3 tour ranked in the Top 10 of Pollstar’s top tours globally. In 2022, he completed the We Are Friends North American tour and, as Kx5, headlined the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in December, breaking records as the largest single-day concert event headlined by an electronic music artist ever in North America. Billboard confirmed Kx5 at the Coliseum as the biggest ticketed global headliner dance event of 2022.

What happens when a Florida girl with zero connections hops off a plane at LAX convinced she’s “arrived”? If you’re Alexis Fisher, you turn that delusion into destiny.From unpaid internships and 6:45 a.m. calls with Hollywood legends, to being one of the first to take YouTubers seriously at Maker Studios, Alexis saw the creator economy coming before anyone else. That leap of faith became Timeline Management, the company she founded from her apartment—and grew into a powerhouse representing talent across entertainment, music, and live touring.In this episode of The Stiletto Room, Alexis and I talk about everything: the hustle it took to get into the room, how she turned influencers into global brands, why she partnered with Live Nation to revolutionize live touring, and what it means to juggle being a CEO, wife, and mom without losing yourself.This is a story about guts, grit, and betting on yourself when no one else will.About Alexis Fisher:Alexis Fisher is a trailblazing entrepreneur, talent manager, and Founder & CEO of Timeline Management, a premier talent management firm in Beverly Hills, CA. With roots in public relations at R&CPMK and Disney’s Maker Studios, Alexis has built a career championing talent and driving results.In 2015, Alexis saw opportunity in influencer marketing. She transitioned her roster of public relations clients to talent management, founding Timeline. Under her leadership, it grew into a top full-service management and branding firm representing Young Hollywood’s leading influencer talent.With a 360-degree approach, Alexis expands clients’ reach across entertainment and beyond. Her expertise spans social media, endorsements, touring, appearances, products, and music. Timeline has facilitated record deals, branding partnerships, fashion lines, and licensing agreements—redefining how talent bridges digital and traditional spaces.In 2024, Timeline Management was acquired by Live Nation Entertainment, marking a new era of growth. Alexis continues to lead the company, amplifying its influence in entertainment, touring, and partnerships.As she shapes the future of entertainment, Alexis is launching new ventures—Timeline Touring and Timeline Rollout—keeping Timeline at the forefront of talent management and branding innovation.Alexis has been featured on Variety’s Dealmakers Impact Report and spoken at major events, including Billboard’s Live Music Summit. A passionate advocate for women, she leads an all-female staff and represents a female talent roster.

When Tee Kissen walks into the room, the vibe shifts—high frequency, high standards, and high heels. She’s the actress, artist, model, entrepreneur, and unapologetic original behind the viral mantra: “Bad bitches got feelings.”In this episode of The Stiletto Room, Tee opens up about her new single “Bad”, blending R&B and pop with raw vulnerability, and why independence has always been her power play. We get into everything��her start as a commercial kid with brands like Google and CoverGirl, her breakout Netflix series, creating music that’s more than just pretty packaging, and why trusting her intuition has saved her from the industry’s traps.We also talk about mentorship, wellness, astrology, and what it takes to manifest a career that’s truly your own. Tee is proof that you don’t need permission to shine—you just need vision, grit, and a little bad bitch energy.Tee Kissen Bio:About Tamera “Tee” KissenTamera "TEE" Kissen is a dynamic force in entertainment, blending her talents as a TV personality, actress, influencer, and artist. She is a true multi-hyphenate in every sense of the word. Tee recently wrapped a recurring role in Netflix's Tyler Perry series "Beauty In Black," which debuted as the network’s #1 most-watched series within its first four days, rising to the top of TV streaming charts with 8.7 million views in its opening week. As a standout personality on Zeus Network’s “BaddiesEast,” Tee’s presence in the industry is undeniable. With over 2.2 million followers on both Instagram and TikTok, 602k monthly Spotify listeners, and 500k YouTube subscribers, Tee has cultivated a loyal fan base that amplifies her every move. Her hit podcast, “Hot Tee,” has featured high-profile guests like Nick Cannon, The Game, and Yung Bleu, achieving viral success. Tee’s brand transcends entertainment, encompassing major partnerships with Google Chromecast, Adidas/Finishline, and eBay, alongside her independently released music, which is gaining momentum. As she dives deeper into her music career, Tee showcases her versatility with a unique fusion of R&B and pop. Through her latest single, “Bad,” Tee seeks to convey that “being a BadBitch isn’t just about making money, partying, or looking good; it’s about being emotionally intelligent, strong, independent, and in tune with one's femininity. She continues to explore this message in her subsequent songs, aiming for "high vibrations and soft girl vibes” that infuse positivity into the lives of girls and women. With her talent and ambition, Tee is poised to leave a lasting impact on the music scene, captivating audiences with her creativity, and undeniable star power.

What happens when two badass songwriters get a $4.78 royalty check for a global hit? They start a revolution.In this episode of The Stiletto Room, I sit down with my dear friends Kay Hanley (Letters to Cleo, “Here & Now”) and Michelle Lewis (Cher, Little Mix, Andra Day) to revisit the wild story of how we founded SONA (Songwriters of North America). From walking into my office with questions, to organizing hundreds of writers overnight, to suing the Department of Justice (yes, we really did that)—this is the untold story of how songwriters finally got a seat at the table.We also get real about sobriety, survival, chasing each other down the street into rehab, motherhood, and why protecting creators isn’t just about money—it’s about dignity.This conversation is funny, fiery, and historic. If you’ve ever loved a song, you owe these women—and every songwriter—a listen.About Kay Hanley:Kay Hanley is an Emmy and Peabody Award-winning songwriter, activist, and lead singer of Boston alt-rock band Letters To Cleo, known for hits like Here and Now and Awake. After acclaimed albums and her solo release Cherry Marmalade, the band reunited in 2016 for sold-out U.S. tours and new music. Kay’s voice and songs appear in films like Josie and the Pussycats and 10 Things I Hate About You, and she co-wrote the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds musical episode Subspace Rhapsody. She has written songs for Doc McStuffins (Peabody Award), Vampirina, Ada Twist, Scientist, and Emmy-winning We The People. Hanley co-founded SONA (Songwriters of North America) and serves on the Mechanical Licensing Collective, advocating for songwriter rights in the streaming era.About Michelle Lewis:Michelle Lewis is an Emmy and Peabody Award-winning songwriter, composer, and advocate for music creators’ rights. She has written singles for Cher, Amy Grant, Andra Day, and Little Mix, and Emmy-winning songs for Bubble Guppies, The Loud House, Julie and the Phantoms, and Disney’s Doc McStuffins. Michelle co-created and executive produces Disney Jr.’s Kindergarten The Musical. As co-founder and CEO of SONA (Songwriters of North America) and the SONA Foundation, she helped pass the Music Modernization Act, fought for fair streaming royalties, healthcare, and protections, and now advocates for ethical guardrails in AI. She also serves on the Board of Directors at ASCAP, amplifying songwriter voices worldwide.

Jason Lee is not here to play small — and he never has. From surviving foster care and gun violence to becoming Vice Mayor of Stockton and founder of Hollywood Unlocked, Jason’s life is a masterclass in using street smarts, grit, and unapologetic truth-telling to shake up every room he enters.In this episode, we go all in: how he went from labor organizing and taking on corrupt unions to building one of the most influential media platforms in urban culture. We talk about running for office after a brutal political betrayal, holding brands accountable for fake “diversity” pledges, and why he refuses to play nice when the stakes are our communities, our kids, and our culture.Jason is equal parts activist, dealmaker, and disruptor — the rare leader who will sit in a City Council meeting one day and in a room with Cardi B the next. This is a conversation about power, purpose, and the courage to say what everyone else is too scared to.About Jason Lee:Jason Lee is a seasoned entrepreneur, media innovator, and community advocate recently elected to represent District 6 on the Stockton City Council. As CEO and founder of Hollywood Unlocked, a leading multimedia entertainment platform valued at over $50 million, Jason’s dynamic career spans labor relations, business development, and civic engagement. After six years in education and probation, Jason transitioned to labor relations in 2006, joining the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Rising from union representative to staff director within the Kaiser Permanente division, he later became a labor representative for the California Nurses Association, where he negotiated contracts for registered nurses and earned a reputation for resolving complex issues. In 2015, Jason launched Hollywood Unlocked, now a major force in entertainment and cultural commentary. Its rapid growth, combined with the launch of The Jason Lee Show in 2023, cemented Jason’s role as a key voice for underrepresented communities. Beyond entertainment, he spearheaded Healthcare Unlocked, an initiative to provide affordable healthcare to one million Americans, blending business innovation with meaningful social impact. In 2024, Jason ran for Stockton City Council’s District 6, a diverse community facing economic inequality, public safety challenges, and limited youth opportunities. His campaign focused on public safety, economic growth, youth programs, and affordable housing. His historic victory reflects his deep understanding of the community’s struggles and his vision for transformative change.

What do Jessica Alba, Hollywood’s elite, and my own face all have in common? Shani Darden. She’s the esthetician-turned-entrepreneur who went from rolling around in music videos to creating the go-to skin care line trusted by celebrities and Sephora shoppers worldwide.In this episode of The Stiletto Room, Shani opens up about her journey from a small town in upstate New York to becoming one of the most respected Black female founders in beauty. She talks about her obsession with skin care as a kid, the leap from giving facials in her back house to opening her own energy-infused studio, and the product that changed the game: Retinol Reform.We get into it all — building a business as a woman of color, the pressure of perfection in Hollywood, surviving the pandemic launch of her Sephora line, and why reputation is the only real currency. And yes, we even talk about her pet turtle Mitch.This conversation is raw, funny, and full of wisdom — a must-listen for anyone chasing their passion and glowing while doing it.About Shani Darden:Considered the secret behind Hollywood’s most flawless faces, expert esthetician Shani Darden sets herself apart with her results-oriented approach to skin care. Her passion for simple, yet effective solutions has earned her clients’ trust and respect in a town where beauty, health, and wellness standards are high. Shani trained as an aesthetician under a leading dermatologist, eventually going out on her own. She developed a passion for creating products she could not find, sending clients home with custom-made formulas between visits. Her Retinol Reform® serum quickly built a huge celebrity following. Today, Shani is sharing her proven formulas and trusted expertise so people everywhere can achieve their best skin. In June 2019, Shani opened her first flagship studio in Beverly Hills where she treats clients, develops high-performance formulas, and shares her expertise with her followers on social media.

What does it really take to survive—and thrive—in the music industry? In this episode of The Stiletto Room, I sit down with two of the most brilliant (and brutally honest) hitmakers in the game: Bonnie McKee (the pen behind Teenage Dream, California Gurls, Roar) and Shane Stevens (the voice behind American Honey, Fancy Like, and countless Nashville gems).We go way beyond the highlight reel. Bonnie opens up about losing her first record deal at 16, falling into addiction, and clawing her way back with one hit after another. Shane shares how George Michael and Mariah Carey inspired his songwriting dreams, how rejection almost ended his career, and how sobriety gave him back his purpose.Together, we dive into:The real life of a songwriter (spoiler: it’s not all glitz and Grammys)Why failure and struggle are essential to becoming an artistHow sobriety sharpened their creativity and saved their livesFull circle moments that prove the universe is always listeningWhy mentoring the next generation is the greatest legacyFunny, raw, and unfiltered—this episode is as much about survival as it is about songwriting. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make it in music, this is your masterclass.About Bonnie McKeeGrammy-nominated songwriter and pop artist Bonnie McKee has shaped modern pop with massive hits like Katy Perry’s Diamond-certified “California Gurls” and “Roar.” She’s also penned songs for Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Ke$ha, Bebe Rexha, Jason Derulo, Kygo, and Adam Lambert. As a solo artist, Bonnie has toured nationally, performed at Coachella and the Hollywood Bowl, and released the cult-favorite Bombastic EP, with its title track featured in over 20 TV and film placements. In 2020, she wrote, produced, and starred in the award-winning short film April Kills the Vibe. Her 2024 album Hot City delivers bold, empowering anthems that celebrate individuality and self-expression.About Shane StevensShane Stevens is a Grammy-nominated songwriter whose work spans country and pop, with cuts by Carrie Underwood, Lady A, Walker Hayes, Meghan Trainor, Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Fifth Harmony, and more. His smash hit “Fancy Like” by Walker Hayes went 6x Platinum and earned a Grammy nomination, BMI award, and NSAI Song of the Year. Shane’s first No. 1, “American Honey” by Lady A, earned multiple industry awards and launched a career of chart-topping success. In February 2025, he released “I Can’t Quit,” a duet with Sara Evans. His songs reflect resilience, creativity, and a passion for storytelling shaped by his journey through Nashville, New York, and beyond.

Tinashe doesn’t just walk into a room, she floats in like she owns it, crystals in one hand, hit records in the other. From dancing at age four to leading a girl group, and ultimately carving out her own lane as a fearless solo artist, she’s lived a lifetime before most people finish high school. In this episode of The Stiletto Room, we get into it all: the freedom of creating her early mixtapes, the perfectionism that still drives her, and the viral wildfire that was Nasty and No Broke Boys.Tinashe opens up about rejecting the industry’s bullshit boxes, protecting her creative instincts at all costs, and why owning her intellectual property was the ultimate power move. She also lets us in on what’s next, from writing a motivational book to starring in the kind of action film where she’s kicking ass, stunts and all.This conversation is raw, funny, and full of the kind of unapologetic honesty that makes Tinashe more than a star, she's a blueprint. If you’ve ever doubted yourself, listen up, because she’ll remind you exactly why you shouldn’t.ABOUT TINASHETinashe is a multi-platinum-certified R&B disruptor singer, writer, and dancer—but she also produces, mixes, engineers, creative directs, and edits. She is one of music’s most compelling artists, fusing innovative sounds from R&B, pop, and hip-hop that has generated a global cross-genre fan base of over 13 million social media followers. Tinashe has headlined two world tours and accrued over 1.5 billion global streams of all time. Her first album, Aquarius, came out in 2014 and debuted in the top 20 on the Billboard 200. She has since released four more studio albums, not including BB/ANG3L, as well as several mixtapes and numerous hit singles. Tinashe recently released her new album, Quantum Baby, on August 16th, which is led by her new single, “No Broke Boys,” that is rapidly climbing the charts. Produced by Ricky Reed (Lizzo, Camila Cabello) and Zack Sekoff, the album includes the hit track “Nasty,” which has been streamed over 500 million times worldwide since release. Following the viral dance trend, the track has become a certified hit, breaking onto major charts, including the Billboard Hot 100. The track also reached #1 on Spotify’s Global Viral 50 and US Viral 50, as well as #2 on the Apple iTunes R&B and Soul Songs chart. The single is currently in the top 10 on the TikTok Billboard Top 50, #4 on the Billboard Hot R&B Songs, and #11 at Rhythm Radio and was just launched to Top 40 radio. On TikTok, the song has surpassed 4.2 million creations across sounds and is at 13 billion total views! Tinashe’s list of collaborators is extensive, including Tyga, Chlöe, Britney Spears, A$AP Rocky, Usher, Charli XCX, Chance the Rapper, Travis Scott, Dev Hynes, and Calvin Harris.

When Prophet speaks, entire rooms shift. From being slammed to the ground by police at just 13 years old to becoming the co-founder and president of the Black Music Action Coalition, Prophet has spent his life turning trauma into transformation. In this episode of The Stiletto Room, I sit down with Prophet to trace his journey—from grabbing a megaphone in the Bronx to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.We talk about everything: battling Reverend Butts over rap lyrics, hearing Al Sharpton call him into action, and why Senator Raphael Warnock remembered him decades later. We dive into the fight to pass the Restoring Artistic Protection Act, how BMAC holds the music industry accountable with report cards and receipts, and why changing laws is the only way to change lives.This one isn’t just an interview, it’s a blueprint for activism, resilience, and using your voice like your life depends on it. Because sometimes it actually does.About ProphetWillie “Prophet” Stiggers, lifelong activist and co-founder, CEO, and President of the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC). BMAC formed as a unified force of action for racial equity and justice within the music industry and to use the power of our collective voice to improve communities and drive systemic change. BMAC advocates on behalf of Black artists, songwriters, producers, managers, agents, executives, lawyers, and other passionate industry professionals and represents 200+ music managers and industry professionals that constitute 65 percent of the highest-grossing artists in music. Under Prophet’s leadership, BMAC is committed to holding the music business accountable and creating new pipelines of access and opportunity for the next generation. Subsequently, Prophet has been named one of Billboard’s Power Players for two consecutive years and received accolades from the Associated Press (AP) and the New York Times. Additionally, Prophet has executive produced the BMAC Gala for the past four years, led multiple panels and legislative conferences, and formed a working group and active coalition around the Restoring Artistic Protection Act (RAP Act). Prophet has also established close relationships with numerous organizations, including the Academy of Country Music, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Recording Academy, the Black Music Collective, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), Songwriters of North America, SAG-AFTRA, and Save The Music. Prophet has dedicated his life to bridging the gap between entertainment, music, and activism. As a music manager, Prophet’s mission has been to work with and represent talent who want to elevate the culture and use their platform to make a positive impact on this world.

When Siedah Garrett walks into a room, legends stop and listen—literally. She’s the Grammy-winning, two-time Oscar-nominated force who penned “Man in the Mirror” for Michael Jackson, sang alongside the greats, and turned every “you can’t” into “watch me.” In this episode of The Stiletto Room, we go way beyond the headlines. Siedah gets real about growing up in constant motion, dodging eviction notices every nine months, finding music as her lifeline, and learning to ignore the doubters (or better yet, use them as fuel).We talk about that life-changing call from Quincy Jones, the thrill of proving her publisher wrong twice, and the priceless moment Miles Davis declared, “Damn, I love that bitch.” It’s part masterclass, part comedy show, and all heart from the woman who’s written for everyone from Aretha Franklin to Jennifer Hudson. If you’ve ever needed a reminder that grit, talent, and a little audacity can rewrite your story, this one’s for you. About Siedah Garrett:World-renowned singer, songwriter, actor, podcaster, and philanthropist, SiedahGarrett is best known as a collaborator and band member of Michael Jackson. Sheco-wrote The King of Pop’s megahit Man In The Mirror from his chart-topping1987 album, Bad, and recorded as his vocal duet partner on the #1 pop single I JustCan’t Stop Loving You. Siedah toured with Jackson as a featured and backgroundvocalist on his Dangerous World Tour and internationally with Madonna andSergio Mendes. Siedah’s illustrious career is highlighted by a Grammy Award winand two Academy Award nominations. Her first Oscar nomination came for heroriginal song Love You, I Do, performed by Jennifer Hudson in the filmadaptation of the Broadway musical Dreamgirls. Her second nomination was forco-writing Real in Rio for the animated feature film Rio, further cementing herstatus as a versatile and accomplished songwriter in both cinema and music.Siedah has the remarkable distinction of having been discovered by QuincyJones in 1984 and has collaborated, recorded, and performed with him for overthirty-five years. Other artists who have recorded on her songs include DianaRoss, Aretha Franklin, Miles Davis, Earth Wind & Fire, Jamie Foxx, AnneHathaway, Common, Ray Charles, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald, Toto,Sheena Easton, Natalie Cole, Barry White, Pointer Sisters, Donna Summer,Dionne Warwick, Patti Austin, Roberta Flack, Al Jarreau, Paula Abdul,Tevin Campbell, The Sugarhill Gang, The Brand New Heavies and manyothers.

Welcome to The Stiletto Room—the unfiltered chat show where no topic is off-limits. I’m Dina LaPolt, entertainment attorney, advocate, and tenacious trailblazer. Each week, I sit down with creative visionaries, iconic disruptors, and unapologetic originals to dive deep into work, life, love, LGBTQ+ journeys, social justice, and everything in between. So, grab a seat, get comfortable, and let’s get real. Baby, this is The Stiletto Room.