Divas, Ingénues & Vixens Podcast

In this episode, I explore how Mozart’s operatic women trace a developmental arc of feminine consciousness—from emotional awakening (the Ingénue), to selfhood and vocal power (the Diva), to embodied relational intelligence (the Vixen), and finally to something radically new: moral agency. Through arias by Pamina, the Countess, Fiordiligi, Zerlina, Susanna, and Vitellia, we hear how Mozart composes...

In this episode, Amity explores the Tony Award–winning musical Kimberly Akimbo, a tender and unexpected story about time, identity, and choosing adventure. From Jeanine Tesori’s luminous score to a heroine who lives between youth and age, this is a reflection on hope, mortality, and what it means to stand—cleverly akimbo—in your own life.

In this January episode of Divas, Ingénues & Vixens, Amity invites listeners into a thoughtful, generous, and deeply musical meditation on what it means to begin again. Through stories from the studio, philosophy, and personal experience, she explores why she proudly claims, “I am not a purist”—and why that stance opens richer, more honest ways of listening and making art. Answering listener q...

This week on Divas, Ingénues & Vixens, Amity sits down with Black Hôk, a rising young blues band from Kansas City, as they prepare to head to Memphis for the International Blues Challenge. Before the music takes over Beale Street, we pause to explore what it really means to play the blues—as a form, a feeling, and a living tradition. From the foundations of 12-bar blues to Kansas City’s rich m...

This New Year’s Day, Divas, Ingénues & Vixens offers a retrospective look at the year behind and the year ahead. Amity reflects on the relationships, artists, and turning points that made the past year so meaningful. From iconic artists to emerging voices, from first conversations to meaningful partnerships; through stories, gratitude and reflection this episode invites listeners to begin the...

On Christmas Day, we pause at the turning of the year—where ancient winter fires meet familiar carols. This episode traces the Twelve Days of Yule and the Twelve Days of Christmas, honoring mothers and matriarchs, endurance and wonder, family and song. Joined by the joyful voices of a six- and seven-year-old, Amity reflects on how light returns not because we rush it, but because we listen, gather...

I sat down with Marilyn Maye to discuss her Holly Jolly Folly Day performance on December 21st at 3:30 pm at The Folly Theatre in Kansas City, Missouri. [Tickets available at follytheatre.org] Marilyn Maye brings a celebration of curiosity, intention, and joyful devotion to song. Through the lens of Divas, Ingénues & Vixens, this festive episode honors Marilyn Maye’s timeless artistry—from her...

In this festive episode I unwrap a lineup of brand-new holiday music from rising artists and powerhouse women—including Lauren Anderson’s fiercely independent “‘Neath the Mistletoe” and SEYKO’s heartwarming “Better to Believe.” I'll also share a Santa inspired new recording from folk icon Dar Williams and highlight a few women-owned businesses bringing extra sparkle to the season. Part music disco...

Whether you crave the symphonic power of Handel’s Messiah at the Kauffman, the candlelit Baroque magic of Spire Chamber Ensemble, jazzy vibes with the KC Jazz Orchestra, or a singer-songwriter afternoon with Nicole Springer… there is holiday sparkle everywhere you turn. I’ve rounded up many magical events of the season on this week’s episode of Divas, Ingénues & Vixens—so grab your calendar, g...

This special episode of gratitude and reflection is built on songs that personify the warmth and colors of the season; each song is performed live by me; all rights have been secured. Enjoy this little concert and my thankful musings!

Lauren and Taylor of Apothogothic join me to reveal the newest scent in their series: Velvet Ember! It is like hot chocolate for your ears!  We discuss the smells inspired by the playlist and deep dive into listening. Use code DIVAS15 for a 15% discount at Apothogothic.com

The November 20th Lyrical Belles show at Knuckleheads is going to be a big one!  These three women are incredible artists: Nicole Springer, Katie Ziegler and Lauren Anderson are stellar musicians and amazing women!  You do not want to miss this show--learn more in today's episode. Hear about Nicole's experiences traveling the world, Katie's new life adventures and Lauren's appearance on The Voice...

Enjoy the continued Maestra series within the podcast: conversations with women conductors.  Four conductors collaborate to lead Carmen KC a women's choir performing a free concert of ELEMENTS on November 22 at 3 pm at Hillcrest Christian Church (11411 Quivira, Overland Park, KS) Dr. Sheri Cook Cunningham, Dr. Melissa Grady, Elizabeth Mulkey and Roxanne Martin bring their voices and their joy for...

Sage Christie dropped a new concept album LITTLE DEATHS on October 24th.  This album is an exploration of life, love, grief, change, and finding home.  The orchestrations are fantastic and so fitting to each song; after recording the album five times, I think Sage really nailed it!  You are going to love it!   Listen to their lyrical and musical analysis along with some music theory easter eggs (w...

Music Theatre Heritage (MTH) here in Kansas City is performing RENT October 2-26. Listen in for a reminder of why this musical is one of only 10 ever to earn a Pulitzer Prize and hear from Mimi herself, Jazlyn Epps who plays the role at MTH this month.  You have one more weekend to see the show and believe me, it is worth it!!!!

Meet the three young women singing with the Lyrical Belles at Knuckleheads next Thursday, October 23rd at 8 pm. Brooke Mertz, Kirra Alexis and Haley Burke take the stage and you won't want to miss this vibrant young artists.

DeAnn Kinsch releases her new concept album on October 15th; enjoy this album review and DeAnn's inspiration behind the project and absolutely get tickets to her live album release at Knuckleheads on October 15th (tickets at Knuckleheadskc.com or at the door)   All music is played with permission by the artist.

In this episode I sit down with two artists and friends: Jillian Riscoe, based in Kansas City, and Kamber, based in Nashville.  These women are dedicated artists and dear friends; listen to our discussion about what it means to "make it" as a working musician and how friends make all the difference! Don't miss Jillian Riscoe's album release show at the Rino in North Kansas City on October 9th at 7...

Saturday night's premiere of Rossini's La Cenerentola at the Kansas City Lyric Opera was nothing short of magical.  Hear this short review and run, don't walk, to get tickets to one of the two remaining performances on October 3rd and 5th.

The Kansas City Lyric Opera presents Rossini's La Cenerentola September 27-October 5th.  This epsiode will prepare you to fully enjoy this epic production full of gorgeous singing, incredible set design, and beautiful-page-turning backdrops!  In addition to hearing the synopsis and music to listen for in the production, enjoy an interview with Scenic Charge: Bethany Elliot.  Her energy will inspir...

Community! Winfield, KS has built an incredible community around the Walnut Valley Music Festival.  Learn more through the eyes of Elexa Dawson and come join the fun September 18-21 in Winfield, KS

Nothing helps a lesson stick better than a tune you can hum!!! This deep dive into my early background in musical theatre and the women of Sondheim's musicals is a blast from the past!

The Maestra series focuses on women on the podium; Dr. Jamila McWhirter, Professor of Choral Music Education at Middle Tennessee State University, invites you to join her ensemble next May 13-17, 2026 in Honolulu Hawaii to sing Vivaldi's Gloria in D Major.  Hear about her passion and grit as she shares her vision.

On September 6 at 6:30 pm Isaac Cates Music will present AFFIRMATIONS at the Church of the Resurrection in Leawood KS. Enjoy this behind the scenes perspective from several women involved in the event.  You'll hear from Allena Leah Ross and Kami Woodard and hear preview songs from Isaac Cates and Ordained, Callie Day, Alicia Peters-Jordan, Kami Woodard, Nicole Shaunte, and honored guest Oleta Adam...

A conversation with Seyko Groves from The Freedom Affair about the power of music, the joy of performance and the process of songwriting. Hear Seyko live on September 6 at the Crossroads Music Fest in Kansas City