We recently connected with Shayla The Artist and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shayla the Artist, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is the recent launch of my podcast and initiative called PowHer Box. PowHer Box was born from my personal journey through my challenges with navigating my fertility and building a family. I’ve unfortunately experienced multiple pregnancy losses due to ectopic pregnancy and lost both of my tubes.
As a singer and songwriter, I’ve always expressed my emotions and experiences through music, which has been a significant outlet for me. However, with PowHer Box, I realized that I wanted to create something more than just music; I wanted to contribute to a critical conversation around women’s reproductive health, especially for women of color who often feel underrepresented in this space.
PowHer Box focuses on empowering women to make informed decisions about their fertility by sharing knowledge, resources, and the voices of those who have faced similar struggles. By creating a platform that amplifies these stories, I hope to foster a sense of community and support, allowing women to feel seen and heard in their journeys.
This not only represents my own healing process but also a commitment to advocate for others. It’s about transforming my pain into purpose and creating awareness around an often-taboo topic. I want women to know they’re not alone and to empower them to take charge of their reproductive health. In sharing these stories, I hope to inspire others to embrace their journeys and to foster a dialogue that can lead to healing and understanding within our communities.
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.
I’m a multifaceted creative—singer, songwriter, screenwriter, and fertility advocate. Music has been an integral part of my life since childhood; I would often find myself singing, making up songs, or even singing commercials. This passion led me to start as a studio session singer, which allowed me to earn some extra income while honing my craft. Eventually, I decided to take the leap into writing my own music, leading to the release of two albums and several singles available on all streaming platforms, primarily in the R&B genre.
One of my proudest achievements is my short film “Night Ride Home,” which I wrote to accompany my second album of the same name. This project allowed me to blend my love for music with storytelling and create a holistic experience that resonates with my audience on multiple levels.
In addition to my music career, I have a background in healthcare administration, where I’ve worked for about 10 years. This experience has fueled my passion for the industry and has given me insights into the importance of health advocacy. My journey took a transformative turn through my personal experiences with fertility challenges, which ignited a deep passion for fertility advocacy. This led to the creation of my podcast.
Through my work, I aim to solve the problem of underrepresentation and lack of awareness around women’s reproductive health issues. I want to empower women to make informed decisions about their fertility and provide a platform where they can share their stories and feel supported. What sets me apart from others is my unique blend of artistry and advocacy. My music and my advocacy work are intertwined; both are driven by a desire to connect, heal, and inspire.
I am incredibly proud of my journey, not only for the creative works I’ve produced but also for the meaningful conversations I’ve fostered. To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is driven by authenticity and a commitment to making a difference. I believe in the power of storytelling—whether through music or advocacy—to create connections and drive change. My goal is to continue using my platform to raise awareness, inspire others, and contribute positively to the community.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
Several resources have significantly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking, and one that stands out is Michelle Obama’s book, Becoming. Her narrative is not just about her rise to prominence but also about her personal struggles, including her fertility journey. I see striking similarities in our stories—both of us have faced challenges related to fertility and have navigated our paths with resilience and determination.
Michelle’s ability to share her vulnerabilities while maintaining strength resonates deeply with me. It reinforces the idea that success is not just about achievements; it’s also about the journey and the lessons learned along the way. Her insights on leadership, community, and the importance of supporting one another have influenced how I approach my work and relationships in both music and advocacy.
Additionally, I find it fascinating that she is a Capricorn, like myself, married to a Leo. This dynamic often creates a powerful blend of ambition, creativity, and a nurturing spirit. It’s a reminder of the strength that comes from balancing headstrong determination with compassion and love.
Becoming, has encouraged me to embrace my narrative fully, to be open about my experiences, and to use my voice to uplift others. It has shaped my philosophy around management and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, connection, and the courage to share one’s story.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn that fear should dictate my ability to speak up and advocate for myself and others. Growing up, I often felt that expressing my thoughts and feelings—especially on sensitive topics—was something to be cautious about. There was a belief that vulnerability could be seen as a weakness, and that fear of judgment or misunderstanding often held me back from sharing my true self.
The backstory to this lesson is tied to my experiences in both my personal and professional life. In the music industry, I witnessed many talented individuals struggle to find their voices, often silenced by the fear of not being accepted or understood. Similarly, my journey through fertility challenges highlighted the stigma surrounding women’s reproductive health. I realized that many women felt isolated and afraid to speak about their experiences, which only perpetuated the cycle of silence and misunderstanding.
As I began to navigate my own fertility journey, I recognized that my voice is powerful and needed. I had to unlearn the notion that fear should keep me silent; instead, I learned that speaking up could create change and foster connection. By sharing my story and advocating for others, I aimed to break down the barriers of stigma and fear that often prevent open discussions about reproductive health.
This journey taught me that vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a source of strength. Embracing my fears and speaking out has not only empowered me but has also inspired others to share their stories, creating a supportive community where we can learn from one another and grow together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shaylatheartist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaylatheartist
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@powherbox
- Other: Music YouTube – www.youtube.com/@shaylatheartist153
Image Credits
Sylvanus Leone