Where were you at in your music career when you had your first child? Was there much discussion about how that life choice would affect your career within the music/entertainment industry?

I always knew I wanted kids, but didn't think they would come until a bit later in life. When my daughter, Gaia was born, I was just starting out my career shift from Artist to Producer. It was definitely a hectic time! I was travelling a lot trying to maximize writing and producing before she was born, because I wasn't sure if I would be able to continue that kind of lifestyle once I became a parent. Thankfully, my wife Talia has a similarly hectic career and was going through the same feelings, so we were able to support each other through this massive life change.

Ultimately, my daughter Gaia is my biggest inspiration to fight harder in this industry for things I believe in and to better myself in my craft. My career has a larger purpose now, not just for myself, but to provide for my family.

As a working parent in the music industry, what are some of the biggest challenges you face or have faced?

I used to have no time limit to creating in the studio! Now I do have time limits because of her schedule, which was tricky for me at first. Thankfully, I was able to rewire my schedule and am more creative than ever.

What is one change (big or small) within the industry that could make a positive impact for working parents?

I think we need better industry insurance plans, but I also thought that before I was a mother. In truth as a whole, Major labels and artist teams need to treat songwriters and producers better. They need to be more respectful of time and energy that producers and songwriters spend on the ground developing their artists (since they reap the benefits of it). When songwriters and producers have children to support, the conversation around this kind of treatment needs to be amplified.

How do you find support and community with other working parents in or out of the music industry?

I think we all share the struggle of being away from our kids for long periods of time - It comes with the territory! Sometimes we can't be there for bedtime and this is really painful. It really helps to chat with other artists/producers who are parents as well. This industry is all consuming and can drain your mental health whether you have kids or not, so talking to people who share the same concerns and goals as I do is really therapeutic.

What could a music event (festival, conference, etc.), do or provide to make it easier for you to participate?

The Juno's should offer babysitting for parents who are nominated that weekend! (I'm only half joking, Allan...)

Can you shout out another music mama doing great things?

Isabel Ritchie, from the Strumbellas, is a good friend and one of the coolest moms out there.