2020 - Music | Speaking

December 31, 2020May 6, 2022

Top 5 Planning Must Do’s

It is a New Year and time to reboot and refresh. Dust off what didn’t get done. Create new opportunities and bring them to fruition. Take the time to invest in what YOU need to do for 2021. Now, I realize this has been a challenging year, but I believe in the saying “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Here are suggestions for the top 5 planning must do’s this year.

Above all, being intentional about planning your year is a must for entrepreneurs and business minded individuals. Think about it like this, if you decided to complete that Master’s degree you will indeed have a planned schedule full of actionable items. Take that same approach for your business and plan 2021!

Tip 1: Be Clear About Your Task | Top 5 Planning Must Do’s

The first tip in our top 5 planning must so’s is to identify what does the big picture look like for you? In other words, think of it as taking your eyes off the tree in front of you and looking at the entire forest. For example, this year your task may be to decrease your business debt. So ask questions to gather your baseline facts.

1. How much debt do you want paid off?
2. What are you already paying on debt?
3. Can your business sacrifice anything to free income to go toward paying off debt?
4. Are there other ways or new services you can offer to increase your business income?
5. What is your debt free deadline and payment plan?
6. How can you celebrate without increasing debt all over again?
7. What protections can you put in place to make sure your business debt remains manageable?

Tip 2: Create SMART Action Items | Top 5 Planning Must Do’s

Clarifying the task is just the beginning. By the way, you have probably heard of the SMART method. In fact, this method has become a norm in the business world today. Furthermore, the SMART method will keep you focused as you pin point the specifics for your tasks. Use this modified version of the SMART method and write down an action item for each step.

Step One: Specific – This is your who, what and why

- Who do you need to involve
- What do you need to do
- Why does this need to be done

Step Two: Measurable – How will you measure your progress, on a regular basis and consequently complete tasks successfully.

Step Three: Achievable – Do you have the resources, knowledge, skills and abilities to complete this task?

Step Four: Relevant – Is this task relevant to your big picture? Is this task a must have or a nice to have?

Step Five: Time – When does this need to be completed? Is this time-frame realistic?

Tip 3: Schedule Your Action Items | Top 5 Planning Must Do’s

People use different tools to plan. For me, I like the convivence of accessing my scheduled tasks from any devise! My preferred tool is Infinity because I lost my planner once while in the military. That was a disaster for my OCD perfectionist brain. What I like about Infinity is pay once use forever. At some point I know I will need to upgrade. In either case, any tool works, a spreadsheet, document, printed blank calendar or paper planner. Just don’t loose yours like I did. The whole point is to get your action items assigned to dates.

Protect Your Time

To provide an example, when I was planning for the New Year, I knew I needed to schedule writing time. I had to be intentional to block out an hour a week-day to do nothing but write. That is on my calendar. This is important for me because I write books and blogs. Now I have a view of not just the appointments on my calendar but the time I have protected to work on a component of my business. As a result, I completed my first book last year.

With this in mind protecting your time just as you would for a 9-5 employer is critical to your success. Without scheduling your action items they will not get completed or will be severely delayed. Trust me I know. I used to be that person that said well I will get to it. Newsflash, no you won’t. There are too many other things that compete for our time. If you don’t schedule your action items you will not see the results you desire.

Tip 4: Collaborate | Top 5 Planning Must Do’s

You don’t have to do it all yourself. As a matter of fact, you will make a greater impact with a like minded individual. Think about it, you don’t go to a hair salon to study science right? Not to mention there are people who are just as passionate about what you are passionate about. Remember to define roles and reach a healthy agreement before committing.

Tip 5: Take Care Of Yourself | Top 5 Planning Must Do’s

Finally, schedule time for yourself. Sometimes people work, work, and work some more. As a result this leads to general stress, irritability, and even serious health problems. If you can’t take care of yourself, how will you take care of your business?

While you are planning out your tasks, schedule time for yourself. It doesn’t have to be a trip to the Bahamas. I have had many peaceful moments, simply taking a day or a week off and relaxing around the house. In all honesty, I am happiest when I have people in my house eating a good meal. Whatever you decide, schedule time for yourself because it is vital to your success.

Let’s Connect

1. Subscribe & catch my short tips in a video clip on the LeBaker Music – YouTube Channel
2. On Facebook – please like the LeBaker Music Facebook Page
3. Do you have my latest book “The Key Leadership Qualities it Takes…” – what are you waiting for
4. Do you enjoy these blogs – invite a friend and let me know you did on LinkedIn or Facebook

#LeBakerMusic #Beextraordinary #womeninbusiness #entrepreneur #johnmaxwellteam #newyear #2021 #planning #smartgoals

December 25, 2020May 6, 2022

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year this season. Thank you for your support and encouragement of LeBaker Music.

Historically this year has been the most challenging year that I have seen our world face in my lifetime. While it remains to be seen how many uncertainties will play out, I for one prefer to “Keep Movin On.” As a person of faith it is a good time to reflect on what we have to be grateful for. Furthermore let us leave behind the things we could not control. I have heard the term “can I have a do over?” For me, no thanks! Consequently, I will take a pass on any 2020 do over. Join me and together let’s embark on a 2021 mission to encourage others.

New Christmas Song

Therefore, on the note of encouragement here is a new Christmas song and video from LeBaker Music and Zoey The White Lioness. We are excited to present this pop-rock cover of “Joy To The World “along with a Holiday greeting in our video.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isiah 9:6 (ESV)

Enjoy!

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! May God bless you!

News and Updates:

1. I was honored to be a guest on “Future Fit” hosted by Mary Eniolu of “Can Do Academy.” Check us out in this streamed Christmas Keynote Concert and learn a few pointers for overcoming barriers as we lean into 2021.
2. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to the LeBaker Music – YouTube Channel
3. Don’t forget to like the LeBaker Music Facebook Page so you don’t miss updates

#LeBakerMusic #Beextraordinary #womeninbusiness #entrepreneur #johnmaxwellteam #Christmas2020 #MerryChristmas #HappyHolidays #JoyToTheWorld.

December 3, 2020May 6, 2022

Managing Your Christmas Card List

When you run a business the Holidays is an important time to recognize and remember faithful clientele. I have to admit, the daunting task of sending Christmas cards is not one I enjoy. To be transparent it is the time that I struggle with. In this blog I have a suggestion for managing your Christmas card list.

As a result over the years, I have missed opportunities to share Holiday cheer and deepen my client relationships. However, I found a tool I fell in love with called “Postable.” So before I share this tool with all of you I have to share some of the companies that like me use Postable. How about well known outfits like The New York Times, Lifehacker and Martha Stewart Weddings. I am in love with this service and I use it for all of the cards I mail to customers, friends and family!

Meet Postable

Postable is a one-stop kind of place. You simply pick a card, type your message, and then Postable will print, stamp, and mail the cards for you! Not to mention the paper they use is 100% recycled. They use realistic handwriting fonts that give people a more personalized experience. Best of all no hidden pricing and volume discounts!

The benefit for you is no more shopping for the right card, loosing addresses, forgetting to send cards for important events and spending precious HOURS from start to finish just to send your cards. You can even upload your own design for those of you who want to add a creative flair or business branded materials.

This service is a no brainer for me because the one resource I never have enough of is time. Already have an address list in a spreadsheet – upload it! There is a card for any occasion and a REMIDER service. No matter the occasion for sending a card, Postable will print, stuff, stamp, address and mail all of your cards directly to everyone for you. Can you say snail mail heaven! Oh it gets better, take advantage of the automated service meaning you can schedule all of your birthday cards for your friends, customers, church members, or anyone in advance!

Special Offer – Save Some Money When You Sign Up

From my business to your business, use this unique Postable code MRUCIWU7C4 when you place your first order of $20 or more and you will receive $5 off. So what are you waiting for, in this quarantined time where we all need more human connection. What better way than a personalized Holiday greeting to make someone’s day and show you care.

#LeBakerMusic #Beextraordinary #womeninbusiness #entrepreneur #johnmaxwellteam #holidaycards #businesstool #postable #snailmail

October 17, 2020May 6, 2022

Flex Your Leadership

In this blog we are going to discuss four different leadership types based on the studies of psychologist Kurt Lewin and American historian and political scientist, James MacGregor Burns. These types are autocratic, democratic and laissez-faire, from Lewin and the fourth style, called Transformational Leadership from Burns. Transformational leadership is a more recent model, coined by Burns in the mid-1970s. Now that you have a framework for these four leadership styles, you can better understand how to flex your leadership.

Autocratic Leadership

Autocratic leadership is an authoritarian type of leadership style. The leader has all the power and expects complete submission from teams and employees. Obviously, this can sound bureaucratic or archaic and I am sure we have all dealt with people who take this too far.

The positive side of this leadership style is, it can bring proper order to a situation that has gotten out of hand. For example, if you were recently hired as the lead manager and you find your supervisor (your employee) is playing favorites with an associate, your team may benefit from establishing clear policies & procedures to foster equal treatment for all employees. Facets of this leadership style may be more common in larger companies.

The negative side of autocratic leadership is that it can cause severe division between associates and supervisors. Since there is no room for suggestions many employees may feel they do not have a voice or that the autocratic leader is unapproachable. This leads to frustration, discontent, and low morale in the company.

Democratic Leadership

Considered the most effective of Lewin’s leadership styles, this style is probably the most familiar style. Democratic leadership is about quality over quantity. Teams may not get as much work done when not being pushed by an autocratic leader. However, if you are striving for quality this style is recommended. Why is democratic leadership so effective? Because it gives people a chance to share their ideas and feel heard. When people feel heard they feel valued. When they feel valued they are more likely to put their all into something and not just complete their tasks half-heartedly.

Laissez-Faire Leadership

Probably the worst and most dangerous of Lewin’s leadership styles is laissez-faire. This type of leadership style is very distant and hands-off. This leader wants people to make decisions on their own, however, with little direction or input from the leader. This can lead to extreme frustration and many people in this situation will do one of two things. They will :

- One: Take advantage of having no structure. This can range from employee theft, dishonest timekeeping, or even bullying another coworker with little or no consequences; or,
- Two: they will find another job because let’s be honest this can be a very toxic environment if laissez-faire is the only leadership style in the workplace.

Transformational Leadership

Burn’s transformational leadership style is considered to be one of the most effective leadership styles today. In this style, leaders serve as coaches using all of Lewin’s leadership styles at the appropriate time. Transformational leaders flex their leadership style by operating in their different strengths. These leaders are change agents, in turn they are often placed in positions that utilize their unique strengths. They are life learners not afraid to be coached or mentored.

When they are in charge they have no problem hiring subject matter experts of people “smarter than they are,” because they know it will help everyone achieve, grow and meet those important goals. People follow people that are inspiring and relational. With transformational leadership, you allow people to thrive and create a very healthy environment for the workplace. Because once again it comes down to this people want to be heard and people want to bring value. Even if they are not crazy about a job, people tend to love transformational leaders. Think about the leaders who you admire the most and now think about why you admire them. Chances are, they are transformational leaders. People don’t leave companies, they leave employers, they leave people who are not appropriately flexing their leadership style.

In Closing

There are many different types of leadership styles. As a leader, it is important to figure out how to flex these leadership styles because each has a time and a place. In my book “The Key Leadership Qualities It Takes to Be a BOSS… ” (the first in its series) I talk about this very thing. This book is written for women who are entrepreneurs, but anyone can benefit from the tips and pointers found within the book’s contents based on solid research.

Get your copy of the book on Amazon.com. Available in print and on Kindle.

Pro Tip: Check out this Forbes article – “The Secret To Transformational Leadership.”

Blog Written By Zoey Baker

Blog Editor: Judith Baker

The Federal Trade Commission of the United States requires that we disclose we are Amazon affiliates and may earn a commission.

#LeBakerMusic #Leadership #JohnMaxwell #JudithBaker #transformationalleadership

October 7, 2020May 6, 2022

Planning Your Music for the Holidays

What is it about holiday music that makes us feel good? Is it the memories, the nostalgia, the FOOD or the family get-togethers? Today at LeBaker Music we are going to discuss planning your music for the holidays.

Are You a Musician? How About Recording Covers For The Holidays

Creating your own holiday music can be tricky. However, there are plenty of Christmas songs and even Thanksgiving songs to choose from! In fact, even if you are not doing a holiday-related song, covers are one of the easiest ways to get noticed. I’m not saying it’s going to rocket you to stardom but it can certainly help people get more familiar with your music and add to your brand.

Let’s face it, people like familiarity! When you visit someone’s music channel on YouTube and you see “Silent Night” or “Jingle Bells” next to an original called “Love of My Life.” Which one are you more likely to click on? The point is people love what is familiar, and what do they do when they dip their toe in the pool of your music and like what they hear? They dive deeper!

Although people love Christmas classics, don’t hesitate to add a holiday-themed original to your catalog. Many people do get bored with hearing the same Christmas tune over and over. Don’t be afraid to experiment with cool sounds and ideas as you build your brand. For example, if you are a pop artist, try doing an unplugged version of a Christmas tune or your most popular original. Add some jingle bells in it to give it a Christmas feel. Different tricks like this can keep things interesting and your audience engaged.

Creating Originals For The Holidays

Creating originals for the holidays is something heartwarming you can do. Why not try it this holiday season. Create or have someone create an original tune for a family member this Christmas as a present. These types of songs really mean a lot to people. Especially if that person is also a musician. So many times it is challenging to figure out what to give that person that has everything. Give them a song. If you really want to make a difference and show your appreciation for people this is an excellent option. If you are looking for this type of gift I may be able to help.

Traditional Christmas Music

Personally, I believe you can’t go wrong with your rendition of a tried and true Christmas classic like, “Joy to the World,” or “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” The cool thing is this, many of these songs are Public Doman so you can let your creative music arranger out for some air and fun. Check this list of common Traditional Christmas Music which identifies Christmas songs that are Public Domain. If you want to refresh a lesser-known Christmas song check out this list on “The Cyber Hymnal.”

Closing

It’s been a rough year, but I do believe we can all make difference. Not just through music and cards. But by our actions and deeds. Be a blessing to someone else and spread some cheer with your creative talents! Stay strong and God bless!

#LeBakerMusic #Nashville #Christmas2020 #HolidayBlog #original #songwriter

September 19, 2020May 6, 2022

The Power of Humor

Do you find yourself stiffing up when you go to a networking event or a meeting? Do you tend to do this a lot? Today’s blog from LeBaker Music is here to help you by providing some pointers to hopefully make your next social encounter less tense through the power of humor!

Trick Your Mind

If you find yourself sweating at an interview or business meeting, one excellent way to calm down is simply relax your shoulders. This can trick your mind into being less tense. Here’s the thing to note, when we tense up, it signals our minds to go into fight or flight mode. When we calm down and allow ourselves some leeway, we can take a deep breath and relax. Now this doesn’t mean slouching and putting your feet up on the table at a business meeting or in that important interview.

However, even if you relax your shoulders and don’t feel calmer at first, try finding a mirror. Now, watch yourself as you say some words of encouragement to yourself. For example, say things like, “I can do this.” “No one is better than anyone else in there.” “I have confidence in me.” Never compare yourself to someone else and don’t beat yourself up. Focus on why your there, why your a good fit, and why you have no reason to be afraid or intimidated. That is how you can trick your mind into calmer state. Don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t work the first time, keep trying. Old habits die hard.

Networking Can Be Fun

Being an introvert social situations can be a bit scary for me. One way I conquer this is by inserting some humor into my social interactions. For example instead of putting Zoey on my name tag I could put something crazy like, “Queen Elizabeth.” It breaks the ice, it starts a conversation, and people are more drawn towards someone who can comfortably laugh at themselves. Think about it, everyone at a networking event is a little scared, a little nervous, and you won’t make the best impression if you come across as too serious. Now I’m not saying you need to go as far as I did in the example, but there are plenty of different ways you can have a playful lighthearted laugh with a stranger and have fun! The power of humor when networking goes a long way.

Find a Good Book to Make You Laugh

Healing Through Humor: Fabulous Jokes From the Happy Hunters – Paperback

The funny thing about humor with Judith is when she tries to be funny she is not funny. But, when she is not trying to be funny, she can do things that are so hysterical. I have watched her not take herself so seriously and those around her enjoy her company all the more.

According to Psychology Today, “Laughter reduces pain, increases job performance, connects people emotionally, and improves the flow of oxygen to the heart and brain.” So find something to help you “yuk-it-up!”

Dr. Michael Miller from the University of Maryland shared that in a study making people laugh did as much “good for their arteries as aerobic activity.” Now this isn’t an opportunity to quit that necessary exercise regimen but you can see how important laughter is.

So find a good resource, a favorite comedy, a favorite memory or a good book that is just downright funny. “Healing Through Humor: Fabulous Jokes From the Happy Hunter,” is a great option to add to your library.

Allow Yourself To Try Again

All the stuff listed above isn’t perfected overnight. Some of it may come more naturally than others, but don’t be discouraged!! Life is a learning process. There is a famous quote that says, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work” – Thomas A. Edison. Keep at it and don’t stop learning, growing, and improving!

Sources

Blog Author Zoey Baker

To comply with the Federal Trade Commission of the United States we are required to disclose that we are Amazon affiliates and may earn a commission.

##ThePowerofHumor #lebakermusic

August 12, 2020May 6, 2022

The Creative Process

Creating anything can be tricky especially if you’re a perfectionist. It’s very discouraging when the process doesn’t come together the way we want it to. Below are some ways to get you back on track and maximize your creative process.

Take A Break

Sometimes the best thing you can do is step away and take a break. Picture it like an orange or a lemon you keep squeezing and squeezing but only so much juice is going to come out. Your brain is the orange and the squeezing is the energy you expend during the creative process. Stepping away from the project can help you replenish and restore that “orange.” Because if you don’t, you may end up getting frustrated. This can lead to never finishing what you started.

Look At Other Art

Whether you are writing a book, painting, or making music. It’s good to get inspiration from other artists. We all want our art to be original but there is nothing new under the sun. There’s a fine line between copying something compared to drawing inspiration from it. For example, say you are having writers block for a song you are working on. Let’s say it’s a soul song about how your mother supported you throughout the years. But you’ve never listened to soul music and you’re having trouble getting the words out. Go listen to that particular genre and/or a similar genre. You’d be surprised how the ideas will flow out!

Experiment In The Creative Process

Try experimenting with your creative process. If you are having writers block try looking at things from a different angle. For example, if your a painter that uses a lot of red why not try using blue? If you write a lot of sad tunes try writing a love song. It may seem uncomfortable but often pushing the boundaries on what we are capable of, is the very thing that makes art, art! You can reshape, remake, rebuild, and sometimes restore! “You are confined only by the walls you build yourself” – Andrew Murphy.

Make Mistakes

Many artists are so afraid of making mistakes even though mistakes in art can be mostly subjective (Even on a technical level). It’s important to make mistakes, that how we grow, that’s how we learn. When we accept that we are going to make mistakes it takes the pressure off of us and allows our craft to truly shine. Embrace your mistakes! Write a cheesy bad love song, cause you’ve never written one before. Eventually you will do it enough that you’ll get better and better!

June 18, 2020May 6, 2022

We Need To Address This

It is safe to say my family and l were expecting a bright and hopeful 2020. Vacation plans, a mission trip and family visits all cancelled before April. History perpetually seems to keep repeating itself. From weather tragedies, fires, Swine Flu to COVID-19, from racist attitudes to more racist attitudes. We need to address this. Many people are angry, frustrated, and hopeless. Many people are tired of everything going on and just want a little peace. I firmly believe God can calm this storm, but at the same time we need to look within.

Look Inside

Decades have gone by and we are still a nation struggling with racial equality. It’s absolutely heart breaking. Hard questions are being asked:

- Why did another human have to get killed, by the police before there is a call for change?
- Since the days when slavery ended, why are some communities still segregated and impoverished.
- What makes two white men gun down a black man jogging down the street?
- So what kind of impact are we having on each other?
- What do our children see and what are we teaching them?

In this difficult time, it is important that we stand together and we look beyond our skin colors. Yes, we have movements and protests for the purpose of raising awareness to these important matters. We need to look inside and ask ourselves what am I living for? How have I let current circumstances affect my attitude? Am I acting on emotion or facts?

I have a friend that is a Pastor and he always told his mixed heritage congregation that this is Heaven practice down here because Heaven will not be segregated since the Bible says God is no respecter of persons or “…God does not show favoritism.” (Romans 2:11). May God help us now. As Martin Luther dreamed that his children would not be judged by the color of their skin but the content of their character it pains me deeply that all these years later the struggle is alive and real.

Why?

What happened to Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and Breonna Taylor is wrong! But as a nation, deep into the streets and living rooms of our communities, it is important to ask why? Is it as simple as racism? Is there any sense of compassion remaining for one another? Does hate stop more hate? Please don’t misunderstand, what those policemen did was terrible. That this is STILL going on since Rodney King is even worse.

However, rioting and looting does not justify these deaths, it doesn’t help any community, and it doesn’t bring Arbery, Floyd or Taylor back – it is more hate. When will people stop using tragedies and politicians as scape goats. When will people start questioning why are they so angry? What happens if they choose to effect change in a positive manner? I want to clarify I’m not pointing my finger at any particular group of people. Everyone needs to do better, everyone needs too look within. Everyone needs to be the change they want to see, including me.

Accountability

Social media and hashtags are storming the internet at the moment. It’s people’s way of feeling heard. However, if you tweet how much you hate something a politician is doing, why not message them directly? I don’t mean in direct messages on Twitter or Instagram. The White House, your congressional representatives, State Legislators, City Officials all have an email address.

You may not feel like one little email can’t make a difference but it can. When I was a little girl I enjoyed the Charlie Brown cartoon specials that rolled around occasionally. The only problem was as a young child my bedtime was 8:00 pm, promptly. For whatever reason the network aired the Charlie Brown specials at 9:00 pm. It irritated me so much.

My wise mother suggested I write the network and ask they rearrange their programming. My first response was, “they’re not going to listen to me, I am just a kid,” to which my mother replied, “You will never know if you don’t at least try.” So I did it. I wrote the network, I shared my thoughts and provided the suggestion that they air the Charlie Brown specials no later than 7:00 pm. The network heard me, the tiny little voice of a kid, and they moved the Charlie Brown special to an earlier time slot.

Take Action

One voice can make a difference! Let’s look at politics for a moment. If you find an elected official does not represent your ideal democracy don’t just pout and shout about it. There are better ways to communicate. If you are not fond of your elected representative(s) I have a few questions:

- Did you vote?
- Have you contacted the political official regarding the challenges you are concerned about?
- Are you willing to work with these officials to find solutions to racism issues?

I realize the political powers that be may not be your choice but you can still effect change. Do you have any idea how many letters, meetings, communications Dr. Martin Luther King sent? Would the civil rights movement even have existed if Dr. King only posted his frustrations on social media? People must individually decide to be a person willing to work with political leaders to make a difference about the things that matter instead of taking sides. When have we ever agreed 100% with any elected official.

What Can I Do

As a leadership consultant and retired military professional, I know first hand that people in these types of positions want to hear ideas for solutions. So when you present your concerns, be professional, be specific and provide ideas for solutions. That is how democracy works. Arguing with others on twitter about who is right and who is wrong is just noise that will never rise above the fray. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Let us not be silent! Let us be productive, proactive, and unite as one nation!

Make A Positive Stand in Your Community:

- Write The White House
- Write your Senator
- Write your Congressman/Congresswoman
- Write your State Legislator
- The Nashville Entrepreneur Center – 5 Easy Ways to Support Black Founders Now
- Hashtags aren’t enough: Nashville businesses can bring real change in fight to end systemic racism (viewpoint)

Authors Judith and Zoey Baker

#LeBakerMusic #BeTheChange #2020 #beextraordinary

June 4, 2020May 6, 2022

Freedoms Not Free | Story Behind Song

After writing two songs for other family members, I didn’t want to leave one of them out. “Ride” was written for my sister and “Funky Animals” was written for her youngest son. My sister’s eldest son, an aspiring Marine and ardent, conservative patriot was my target audience.

I had the luxury of asking the other two what they wanted in their song but I wanted the song for this young man to be a surprise for his High School Graduation. Knowing he likes his scream-o, metal music on sonic boom, I decided to take my creative juices in a completely different direction. I knew the song had to have attitude and metal. It was a new sound for me vocally and quite challenging to deviate from my more common vocal nuances.

For Which It Stands

This is the inspiration for this song. My nephew is a very outspoken person when it comes to what he believes. We have had many conversations about how some Americans take Freedom for granted. As a Veteran myself, I have strong feelings about burning the very flag I served to defend, and taking a knee when the National Anthem is presented, a song I often proudly sing. Do what ever you feel you need to do but don’t try to take my constitutional rights away. Yes, conversations like this.

I thought about these conversations with him. Besides, this kid has spent several summers with us so I think I know where he stands on these issues. As the lyrics evolved, I realized I was writing the song for myself just as much as I was writing the song for him. I am proud to have served this Nation, and I would do it again to protect Freedom. The freedom we all have and should never take for granted. After all “I have my reasons I push the limits.”

Shout out to all the Veterans who have served or who are currently serving. Thank you for your sacrifice and commitment.

Learn More

Read about your Constitutional Rights here
Check out wallbuilders.com to learn the history of our American Heritage.

Check out our video for “Freedom’s Not Free”

“Freedoms Not Free” Lyrics

Verse 1
I – have my reasons
I – push the limits
Writing – history for
My home – of liberty

Chorus 1
Don’t you judge me, don’t you hate me
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free
This is my time, my legacy
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free

Verse 2
You – have the answers
But you – take for granted
Honor – Integrity
Sacrifice – loyalty

Chorus 2
Don’t you judge me, don’t you hate me
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free
This is my time, my legacy
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free

Don’t burn my flag with supremacy
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free
Face the battle, the treachery
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free

Bridge
(Guitar Solo)

Verse 3
I – swear to protect
I – have to defend
From our enemies
Fighting – victory

Chorus 3
Don’t you judge me, don’t you hate me
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free
This is my time, my legacy
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free

End Tag
To keep my rights from being taken
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free
I got to fight for what is sacred
Freedom’s not free, Freedom’s not free[/lgc_column]

Would you like your own custom original song?

Contact Judith to schedule a free consultation

Find Judith’s Music at these Retailers

#leBakerMusic #FreedomsNotFree #GoArmy #NashvilleTN# musicsupervisor #synclicensing

April 21, 2020May 6, 2022

Key Leadership Qualities

The Key Leadership Qualities It Takes to Be a BOSS… A Woman Entrepreneur in Business Today: How You Can Apply Leadership Principles and Use Them to become an Entrepreneur.

This book, the first in a series for Entrepreneurial minded women, discusses the key leadership qualities Women need to start or run a business. It is for Women who are asking questions, just like I was. Inside the contents of this book, you will find solutions to the problems that Women who are Entrepreneurs often encounter.

Have you been asking questions such as…

- How do I break down the barriers?
- Do I have the right mindset to run my own business?
- How can I make it as an Entrepreneur?
- How can I improve my leadership style to benefit my business?
- Who has been there, and done that as a woman and how can I learn from her?

It All Started When

I have long dreamed of being an entrepreneur, after all, it is in my blood. But how do you do that and work a 9-5 traditional job? After much prayer & contemplation, I believed that I had to figure that out. There is so much I have yet to contribute to our world. My business had to be born for me to stay sane. I had to get it out by sharing my creative talents and encouraging spirit with the world.

Likewise, I had to stop worrying about “what if no one likes my baby.” I am over that! For all those that may not like my contributions to the world, there are most likely more who DO like my contributions to the world. I had to face the reality that my 9-5 is never going to fill that void my creative and entrepreneurial soul craves. Just because I work a 9-5 job, to be transparent, did not mean I can’t start my creative journey and step into my calling. So I did it! I took the plunge and created LeBaker Music in 2018. The doors continue to open. God sent me to a new employer that celebrates every success I am blessed with and encourages me to work and thrive in both worlds.

“The only way to survive is to create opportunity, rather than to wait for it to come to you” – Judith Baker

If I Did It You Can Do It Also

For me the urge of entrepreneurship called from deep within. “It is a very hard signal to ignore. First, you start thinking about your concept incessantly. Then, it can start to feel like your current job, business, or life path is less interesting by the day. The idea to create your vision brews strong in your head, and it starts to feel like your only option is to make your idea a reality.” Judith Baker

Challenges And Hurdles

Starting your own business is not an easy task. Many women find it challenging and often feel like they’re not being taken seriously. It is easy to second guess do I even have the key leadership qualities it takes to walk this road. When hurdles and rough spots come your way. Remember your business is like growing a tree not a flower. It’s going to take time. ”In business we need to prepare and plan for overcoming hurdles.” Instead of avoiding and dreading the “hurdles.”

Why not find a productive way to plan for them? Not only does this build confidence but you are more likely to succeed in the business world. For example, you make music and you want to license it for film and TV. You do the research and submit your song to a music supervisor and they reject it because “It wasn’t they were looking for.” It’s okay to be disappointed but don’t let it hold you back! Find another music supervisor and be persistent or foster a relationship and learn what that music supervisor typically is looking for. Consequently, go write the next song to fit that mold. There are always options. Just don’t quit! Keep writing!

Time Management

Here is an extra tip from my journey. Time management is probably the most important thing for me. You must be very intentional about how you spend your time. Watching hours of T.V. is a rare treat for me. To protect my time on the weekends, I pay someone to clean our house and I am rarely on social media outside of marketing my business. You are going to have to be disciplined and determine for yourself where you can carve out time to work on your baby, your entrepreneurial dream.

On the other side, you also must have balance and spend time on the things and with the people most important to you. Everyone is different and every journey is not the same. What I am saying here is look at your day, the activities you participate in and figure out where can you carve out an hour or even 30 minutes. Plan what your going to do during that time so you are not sitting somewhere fixated on the wrong items and setting yourself up to see your dream remain a dream. When I finally set goals for myself and followed up with the actionable steps it was going to take to complete the goals, I could then concentrate on what to do in the time I had carved out.

The Take Away

“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” ~ Albert Einstein.

My challenge to you is simple and from the last page of my book.

“Go, be extraordinary, and kick-start your business.” Reach your potential by learning from other leading ladies. Embrace the mindset needed to lead your entrepreneurial business like a boss.”

Call For Help

Don’t forget to help others along the way. And, speaking of help, If you read my book I would be very grateful for a review on Amazon.