Women Leaders: Rachel Ebeling, Co-Founder/Executive Director, The Angel Band Project
by Marianne Biangardi and Jennifer Bardot
When you began your career did you ever imagine you would have a leadership role like you have now? What advice would you give your younger self?
My career path took an unexpected turn in 2009, when a tragedy prompted a friend and I to channel our energy into starting a nonprofit in St. Louis. I leaned into my journalism and project management background to build a foundation as an entrepreneur, and I surrounded myself with the best people I knew to help us get this off the ground. Sixteen years later, I find myself in a leadership role I never could have predicted. To my younger self, I’d say: take more risks. Don’t be afraid to try something new, and trust that if you believe you can make a difference in the world, you absolutely can.
Who inspires you and why? What is your most valued attribute in the leaders you respect or mentors you have had?
I’m inspired by the great changemakers: poets, artists, and advocates who lead with courage and creativity. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Maya Angelou, Mother Teresa, Mary Oliver, Joni Mitchell, Malala Yousafzai, Pablo Picasso. Those who have shown bravery amid hatred, love instead of hate, music to express and emote, language as a tool for understanding, and painters who inspire us to seek beauty. The qualities I most admire in leaders are empathy and humility.
What did it take in order to trust yourself to step into leadership?
When I started this work, if I didn’t know what to do, I asked for help. From incorporating a 501(c)3, to producing a record album, to managing the finances, to hiring staff, sourcing volunteers, and everything in between. I learned by reaching out, researching, and enrolling in business courses and arts entrepreneurship training. I built my confidence by building my skills.
Have you experienced any hardships and how did you overcome the obstacles. When did you know, the business was going to make it?
We launched The Angel Band Project on a wing and a prayer. There was no formal business plan. Just a deep desire to help others heal after the tragic death of my friend, Teresa Butz. Like many grassroots organizations, we faced challenges around funding and sustainability. I overcame those obstacles by believing in myself, in our mission, and in the greater good. I knew we were going to be successful due to the dedication and support of an amazing Board of Directors and the outpouring of love from people who believe in what we are doing.
What do you attribute your success too? Secret to your success…
I believe that to be successful, you must work hard and believe in yourself. Celebrate the wins, even when they seem little at the time. Accept a “no” as a gift, not as a failure. Thank the people who have helped you. Gratitude goes a long way, whether it’s given or received. No one makes it alone. And once you’ve realized some success, extend a helping hand to someone else.
What advice would you give other local women leaders?
Women’s voices and experiences are so critical in our society today. If you have the privilege and platform to fight for justice, use it. Ask hard questions. Speak up for the underserved in our communities. Some of the strongest women I know are also the best listeners. Taking the time to sit with someone, to truly hear someone else’s story, can unlock new levels of awareness as a leader. And never stop learning. Take a class, read something that challenges you, and spend time in nature asking big questions. It will change you.
Other items you would like to highlight...
I am inspired by the people we serve at The Angel Band Project. One of our clients shared that “I survived through music.” Another stated, “The Angel Band Project saved my soul.” I take these words to heart. To date, we have served over 950 individuals through our trauma-informed music therapy programs, which are offered at no cost as part of their healing and recovery. And until there is an end to gender-based violence, we will forge ahead.
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Jennifer Bardot (left) (ownyourgrit@gmail.com, or 314-630-1451) is CEO and Founder of G.R.I.T. Community For Women.
Marianne Biangardi (right)(mbiangardi@uhy-us.com or 314-322-4871) is Sr. Associate, Marketing and Business Development, at UHY LLP.