In this epic conversation with Molly Redfield, we talk about Molly’s musical upbringing, and the challenges encountered as a woman pro performer and music educator. What became evident is that words matter — even offhanded comments from an adjudicator at a middle school jazz band festival. Words (even seemingly simple ones) can affect the trajectory of one’s beliefs about themselves and one’s very future. We need to be conscious of our words, and the words of those we have speak to our students. After this conversation, what we can tell you is that we are SO GLAD Molly is out there in the music ed realm — Molly — keep doing your super power — building warm welcoming communities for music participants and learners!