Karen Pearson
Co-owner / Manager
Amoeba Music
Los Angeles, CA USA
“If there's anything that's gonna be changed because of my presence, or your presence, it's going to be in this context…in a one-on-one, smaller group. That changes the world.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationKaren Pearson
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
Growing up in Berkeley, she grew up wary of corporate America; didn't want to become "the man."
Realized she didn't have to subscribe to any particular brand of business, she could create her own company culture.
Originally set out to "change the world," came to realize that through her interactions with co-workers, musicians, she actually could affect change.
Makes sure her company encourages everyone to be who they are, says that's infectious, spreads to the customers, helps feel at home.
Believes in Martha Graham's advice: don't question your passion, just go where it takes you and follow it to the very end.
Says sometimes it's best to realize, "it's not all about me," and go where life takes you; if you're open to many paths, you'll find yours.
Has realized that in running a business, it's not about how much profit she makes, it's about what she does with that profit.
Found that the smallest things, like giving a fan a free poster, often make the biggest impacts on how people view her company.
Keep following my journey
Career
Co-owner / Manager
I run a record store where we promote independent musicians and share our love of music with our customers.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Entrepreneurship
Music
Accomplishing Goals
Interviewed By
Hollywood
In Los Angeles, Calif., the Roadtrippers make their way to Amoeba Music, one of the largest indie record stores in the U.S., to meet co-owner Karen Pearson. Next, the team speaks with Joe Rogan, a stand-up comedian, who tells them to do what you do because you love it, not for money. Just as the Roadtrippers are leaving their interview, they snag an impromptu and unexpectedly musical interview with actor Craig Robinson. Playing the piano and in a sing-songy voice, the actor of the The Office empowers Nika to not be afraid to pursue her dream as a performing artist.
