Life & Work with Meredith Pegula of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Meredith Pegula.

Hi meredith, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey as an artist is deeply rooted in the belief that music and creativity can heal. Growing up with an artistic mother, I was inspired to explore various forms of creative expression—singing, dancing, writing, poetry and art—all of which have become integral to who I am. One of my most recent creations are ritual /manifestation wands, which I custom-make using crystals and bamboo grown from our backyard in Santa Monica, with a secret scroll prayer message hidden inside the bamboo. These wands serve as tangible reminders of intention and connection, helping others on their healing journeys while also reflecting my own!

Since I was 25 years old, I have combined my artistic endeavors with philanthropy, including performing to raise awareness and funds for various causes, including A Place Called Home (south central los angeles ) and Lupus LA. In 2015, I co-founded Chords2Cure with my daughter and other compassionate families, inspired by her friend who was battling pediatric cancer. Together, we’ve united musicians and singers to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer, and we are excited to host our 2nd event in Nashville at Jenni Kayne a Los Angeles-based store, as we continue our mission to make a positive impact through music.

I am currently performing regularly in Nashville, (Music City) alongside my daughter, Juliette who is also a talented singer-songwriter. This experience has been a dream come true, allowing us to share our love for music and creativity. Through our original music, we aim to uplift and inspire others, using our performances as a way to connect and move the audience.

I am also in the process of editing a manuscript I began writing in 2017 about my experiences with my late mother’s illness. (Parkinson’s and lewy body dementia) and how music became a vital source of healing for both of us. Through the stories I share, I hope to connect with others who are navigating similar challenges, inspiring them to find solace in music and creativity.

I have found that by showing up for my creativity and fostering connections with others, my life has been exponentially enriched. I have found that embracing diverse passions allows me to nurture my soul!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Despite my passion for the arts, I have faced significant challenges along the way. At 24 I was diagnosed with lupus and a year later, I underwent vocal cord surgery due to cysts which forced me to relearn how to speak and sing. This journey was daunting, but with the support of speech therapists and vocal coaches, I worked diligently to get my voice back. While regaining my previous vocal range proved difficult, I turned my focus to writing songs that reflected my new reality, finding strength and resilience in the process. Having lupus affected my energy and career goals as I was in tremendous pain throughout my entire body. I was taking high dose steroids and chemotherapy drugs to manage the disease. However, I was determined to maintain a positive attitude, realizing that if I could strengthen my mind while being caring for the needs of my body I could continue on a life path that may not have been exactly as I had planned but fulfilling nonetheless. I got married, had 3 children (my greatest accomplishment), continued my singing and songwriting, taught students singing and songwriting, and completed a masters in psychology at a pace that was slow but manageable.

Performing became a crucial source of comfort during this time of illness. I began singing in coffeehouses and discovered a love for jazz while performing at the Geffen Playhouse in LA. Each performance allowed me to connect with audiences and share my journey, transforming my challenges into opportunities for healing. My commitment to philanthropy also grew as I participated in benefit concerts which fulfilled me and took me out of my challenges, focusing instead on others. It felt amazing to use my voice to uplift and support others.

Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of perseverance and the healing power of creativity. My journey has shown me that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to find strength, purpose, and connection. With each song I write, every wand I create, and the stories I share, I strive to inspire others to embrace their unique gifts and overcome their obstacles.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work is ever-changing and evolving as I experience new chapters in my life. Now with my kids being young adults, I am coming back home to myself and my passions! I love singing, writing and creating the wands. I am experiencing new aspects of myself as my husband and I travel and experience life in new parts of the world! I yearn to be inspired to open myself to new experiences which inform my work in whichever form it takes. My goal is to continue on this path of growth, discovery and connection.

How do you define success?
Success, in my view, is about embracing authenticity and ensuring that every aspect of life aligns with one’s true values and passions. It’s not merely about achieving external milestones but cultivating an inner sense of fulfillment that comes from living a life driven by love, purpose and service.

Connection plays a vital role in this definition of success. Strong relationships with family, friends, and the community enrich our lives and provide the support and encouragement needed to thrive. These connections create a sense of belonging and contribute to our overall well-being.

I also believe in the importance of treating others with respect and kindness. This principle extends beyond personal relationships to how we engage with our community and the world at large. By practicing reciprocity and generosity, we not only uplift those around us but also foster a more compassionate society.

Living with integrity is crucial; it means being true to oneself and making choices that reflect one’s values, even in challenging situations. This authenticity extends to self-kindness, where we must be gentle with ourselves and acknowledge our own needs and limitations.

Ultimately, a fulfilling life is one where love, connection, and integrity intertwine, creating a foundation for genuine happiness and a positive impact on those around us.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @meredithpegulamusic, @magic_crystal_healing_wands
• Facebook: meredith pegula music
• Other: https://www.chords2cure.org