Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Maria Gabriela Gironas. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Maria Gabriela, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?
Initially, I was hesitant about starting my own business in this field. My mom runs a successful house cleaning and referral agency, and I witnessed the toll it took on her while raising two kids. However, five years ago, I had a conversation with a friend who is a talented writer and director. When I asked her about her plans after moving to Los Angeles, she responded with, “Listen, man, I just want to make cool shit with cool people, and I would be so happy.” Her response inspired me to name my company “Cool Shit, Cool People,” as it reflects my philosophy and is approachable and disarming. I love how the name represents my vision.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
As a Forbes 30 Under 30 Honoree, I’ve dedicated my twelve-plus year career in entertainment and tech to elevating marginalized communities and empowering creatives to embrace technology. My journey has led me through roles at companies like YouTube, Reddit, and Fender, where I’ve worked with artists ranging from BTS to Rick Astley. Now, as the Founder of Cool Shit, Cool People, I offer artist development, talent relations, and integrated marketing services, bridging the gap between artistic vision and technological innovation. What sets us apart is our ability to provide tailored services to artists and companies of all sizes and needs. Beyond my company, I currently serve as the General Manager of Keychange U.S. and was previously the Global Chair of Diversity, Inclusion, & Community at Women In Music, working to create sustainable change in the industry. Whether through my business ventures or nonprofit work, my goal is always to create opportunities for underrepresented voices and push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Have you ever had to pivot?
A pivotal moment in my career was transitioning from PR to the world of tech. At the beginning of my career, I worked as a publicist, a role I had aspired to since my teenage years. After a few years in this role, I was invited to interview at YouTube. This opportunity challenged and expanded my perception of what I could achieve. It made me realize that I had been limiting myself and my potential. Working in tech never seemed like a possibility to me, especially since I didn’t know anyone in my upbringing who had parents working in tech. When I received the phone call offering me the role, it was one of the happiest moments of my life. I felt like a new chapter had begun and that my life was about to change. Because I took a leap, I was able to enter the world of tech, where I’ve been since.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I was laid off a few years ago, which threw me into a dark hole. My whole life had revolved around my job, and doing a good job was the only thing that brought me joy. When I lost that job due to company restructuring, I felt like I couldn’t breathe. How did all my effort suddenly mean nothing? Am I worthless without this job? These were some of the many questions I was asking myself. It took time, therapy, medication, and a very supportive group of family and friends for me to realize I wasn’t defined by my job, and my worth wasn’t based on having a job. I’m really proud to have made it through that period, and I share my story now to remind people that self-worth is incredibly important.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://coolshitcoolpeople.co
- Instagram: @mariagironas
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariagironas/
