Meet Glenda Benevides | Singer-Songwriter, Author, and Global Badass Goddess

Award-winning, GRAMMY®-nominated, singer-songwriter Glenda Benevides

Glenda Benevides, founder Global Badass Goddess, GRAMMY®-nominated singer-songwriter, and Recording Academy voting member.

I am an award winning, Grammy nominated singer and songwriter. From the age of four, I was
singing in the car with my dad, and by six, I was rescuing animals off the streets. Born in Oakland,California, and raised in East Oakland, my early years were rough and sometimes dangerous. Eventually, my family relocated to Salem, Oregon, where I continued to grow and learn how to pursue my passions. I was fortunate to have family support in all areas of my life. Grateful!

In those early days, I raised money and organized shows to support causes like muscular dystrophy while also rescuing animals in need. Now, I raise awareness and support Planting Trees with One Tree Planted all over the world. Helping others has always been in my blood—it’s who I am.

I’ve gotten to where I am today by following my heart and passions, never saying no to myself, and continually seeking solutions. Step by step, I figured out how to achieve what I wanted, always staying focused on finding a way forward while supporting others in their dreams. 

Takeaway:

• A Soul On Fire cannot be ignored.

“Time to look within, be honest, be brave, make the plan and take the step” 
-Glenda Benevides

We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.

I believe my journey began with a deep commitment to personal growth and an insatiable curiosity about why we think and act the way we do. This desire for understanding led me down a path of self-discovery and transformation. Along the way, I chose to follow what I love wholeheartedly, and I never stopped moving forward.

It’s been a journey of putting one foot in front of the other, embracing both trials and triumphs, and continuously evolving. I learned to find balance by growing from my mistakes, practicing forgiveness, and developing the courage to listen deeply and ask meaningful questions. Staying organized while also remaining in a state of flow has been key to creating the life and work, I’m proud of today. Every step has been a lesson, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

What made you decide to go into business for yourself?

It was just natural for me and probably in my Scottish/Italian bloodline. My grandparents we’re always in business for themselves. 

What are the three most important habits to be a successful entrepreneur?

Curiosity, clarity, commitment, courage, compassion, and community!

If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?

I would say, write down 10 things you are passionate about. Sit with that list and ask yourself: Is there something here that I’d love to make my life’s work? Is it sustainable? Can I make a difference with it? Is what I’m passionate about truly my gift and what I am here to contribute? Then, take the leap and give it a try.

Always. I support One Tree Planted, Trevor Project, Foundation for Climate Restoration.

Every entrepreneur has a goal and problem they’re trying to solve. What was the inspiration that started your journey?

For me, music, writing, and caring go hand in hand. I’ve always felt drawn to being part of a revolution—a love revolution. Not something superficial, but a profound shift in consciousness that encourages us to do the right thing for ourselves and for each other.

The problem, as I see it, is that we’re not paying enough attention to our souls, our true unique gifts, and the paths we’re meant to walk. Too often, we neglect what truly allows us to shine, to own our light, and to embrace our role in any given situation. To be accountable and responsible to self and others. 

The solution lies in being unapologetically myself and understanding what that means. It’s about discovering how I can contribute to the greater whole for the greater good.

How do you prioritize self-care and well-being while managing the demands of your business?

You must add it in, make time, and schedule it, then follow the schedule. Most of all, feel your importance because without you, your well-being. You cannot support your business or anyone else in a powerful way. 

What would you consider your biggest accomplishment and why?

It’s truly listening with a quiet mind, no judgments, just hearing people when they share, being brave, going for what I want, and being a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter I would say is pretty up there! 

My mind and it’s lies and stories it consistently wants to share.

What challenges have you faced in the workplace, especially your experience in male-dominated environments? 

I don’t approach it that way. My mindset is that we are all humans. I genuinely appreciate men and the unique contributions they bring. What saddens me, however, are the instances where some men operate from a place of fear. I choose to let them own that fear and not give it any power over me.

Can you share some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from your successes and failures in business?

Life is what we make of it, and we have the power to create our own rules. Embrace differences and challenges, and seek the insights, the gifts, and empowerment in every situation. Don’t give up, no matter what. 

What are the three most important habits to be a successful high performer or leader?

Be curious, ask questions, follow your inner guidance and heart, make sure you keep your focus until you get to what you want. 

What are three podcasts you can’t imagine your day without?

Which female leader do you admire, and why?

There are so many amazing women out there you’ll never hear about but if I have to choose, I would pick a woman named Rochelle Ferrell. She is an amazing talent, singer-songwriter masterful human being, and a deep person. A real inspiration to so many. 

Do you have a favorite quote or motto that inspires you?

“People who have no creativity, talent, or courage are the ones who follow the rules” Prince 

What does it take to have the life that you love?

It takes Clarity, Courage, Confidence, Commitment and Community.