Welcome to Fem Forte!
Fem Forte

Fem Forte

Welcome to Fem Forte--your new favorite source for inspiring interviews with women in music and performing arts. Fem Forte is hosted by Amanda DeFrees, Director of Media at Ultimate Drill Book. Come join me on this journey as I sit down and have real conversations with women who are making strides and impacting the community in a positive way. Whether you are a band director, performer, conductor, musician, or love music and performing arts, this podcast is for you!

Recent Episodes

July 12, 2024

The Importance of Arts Advocacy in Legislation with Paulette Tomlinson

In this episode of Fem Forte, I am joined by Paulette Tomlinson, the Director of Fine Arts at Tomball ISD. Paulette shares her inspiring journey from band director to fine arts director, highlighting the pivotal moments and c...

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July 5, 2024

Redefining Performance: Dance, Choreography, and Neurodiversity with …

On this episode, I am joined by the incredible Courtney Allyson Mills. With over 25 years of experience in dance education, freelance choreography, and consulting, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the tabl...

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June 28, 2024

Run It Like a Business with Aubrey Berguaer

Join us as we sit down with Aubrey Bergauer, dubbed “the Steve Jobs of classical music” and “the Sheryl Sandberg of the symphony.” Known for her data-driven, customer-centric approach, Aubrey has transformed major institution...

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June 21, 2024

On the Starting Line with Samia Vanderkolff

In this exciting episode of Fem Forte, we sit down with the incredibly talented Samia Vanderkolff, the current Movement Caption Head for the Bluecoats. Samia has a rich history of choreographing for top performing ensembles w...

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June 14, 2024

The Road to Hollywood and Representation in Queer Media with Nicole P…

In this enlightening episode of Fem Forte, we are joined by the talented Nicole Pacent, an actress and producer celebrated for her roles in Westworld , Criminal Minds Evolution , Call Me Kat , and the groundbreaking web serie...

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June 7, 2024

From Volunteer to Bluecoats CFO with Genevieve Geisler

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Genevieve Geisler, an absolute powerhouse in the drum corps community. Starting her journey as a food truck volunteer, Genevieve's passion and dedication have propelled her to the r...

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About the Host

Amanda DeFrees Profile Photo

Amanda DeFrees

Podcast Host

Amanda DeFrees is the host of Fem Forte and currently serves as the Director of Media at Ultimate Drill Book. Fem Forte is a podcast that celebrates women in the arts. This podcast is meant to empower the next generation of women in the performing arts by interviewing amazing female educators, performers, and professionals alike who are currently in the industry. Amanda has worn multiple hats throughout her career as a performer, musician, and media professional. Amanda has been featured in Business Innovators Magazine, Canvas Rebel Magazine, Texas A&M Kingsville Foundation Annual Report, The South Texan Newspaper, and Corpus Christi Caller Times. Amanda is a proud alum of Winter Guard International Silver Medalist Crossmen Winds Performing Ensemble, 5points Percussion, and has performed as a contracted musician at SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment and NCAA Final Four Entertainment Ensemble.