Life & Work with Rachel Vogel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Vogel.

Hi Rachel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today? 
My story began innocently enough. From as early as middle school, I spent every spare minute I had scouring the iTunes charts, seeking out artists that none of my friends had ever heard of. In those days, I was just having fun, listening to music and not thinking in terms of a career. While my excitement made me the coolest kid in class, it also got me in trouble because I’d rather listen to music than focus on my schoolwork. By the time I reached high school, I was not only creating my own playlists but also editing and creating videos to accompany those playlists. So, when it came time to apply to college, I knew I had to be at a school and in a major that would align with my passion. This is when I first realized my passion could become my purpose and turn into a lifelong career. 

Knowing what you want to do in life can only come to fruition if you understand what it takes to get there and are intentional about taking those steps. For me, those steps fall into four buckets: industry-specific internships, networking, seeking out the right mentors, and a commitment to lifelong and broad-based learning. In terms of internships, beginning my first semester of college, I began conducting research to determine what types of internships, companies, and geographies would align with my career goals. This work paid off because my internship experience included some of the most amazing opportunities to work for iconic brands in the music industry, including Republic Records. This led to my first full-time position working for a joint venture with Columbia Records at Sony Music Entertainment, which led to my current position as Manager of Global Digital Accounts at Warner Music Group, spearheading strategic partnerships with major platforms such as TikTok. 

Having worked for very senior executives in those early internships I learned the importance of networking. I committed 5 hours a week to meet with industry executives, always being prepared with at least one question and a notebook in hand. This served me well, in that I not only learned an extensive amount about the business, but I built many meaningful relationships including with individuals who ultimately became my mentors. What do all of these things have in common? An intentionality and commitment to my career. 

As with most creative individuals, I have an entrepreneurial side as well. Two years ago, this led me to create and Host The 3Q Podcast, which includes 3Q The Artists. 3Q provides an industry-recognized platform for meaningful conversations with industry executives and artists, fostering connections and insights that benefit both professionals and enthusiasts alike. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My mother has always said and continues to say that in order to be successful I have to do that which others can’t do, won’t do, or don’t know how to do. While those words may seem simple, I live by them every day, both personally and professionally. In doing so, I’ve learned it often sets me apart from my peers. For example, when I had the idea to create 3Q, I knew I had to differentiate both the podcast and myself as Host from the myriad of other music industry podcasts. I did this by creating 3 questions that every guest responds to in 15 minutes. 

Another example is with my current position at Warner Music Group, which is to support cross-functional teams, ensuring all aspects of editorial and digital marketing for high-profile releases are impactful for the labels, platforms, and the artists. I differentiate myself by regularly volunteering to take on additional roles and responsibilities outside of my day-to-day duties. 

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice for anyone starting their professional journey, whether in the music industry or in any industry, is to be intentional about networking and recognizing the importance of having mentors. I learned early on that it’s important to have different mentors at different stages. Although I’m still early in my career, I suspect the advice would be the same for anyone, no matter their functional role or experience. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/3q
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the3qpodcast/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-s-vogel/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGaF5qRnJsANqYr7q1LlwhA
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/rachellvogell/