The Heroine’s Journey of Shauna Knapp

What is the best thing that I love about my work? 

The best thing I love about my work is that it allows me to turn real life experiences into something meaningful that others can connect with. Whether it’s music, business, or creative projects, everything I do comes from a place of passion, growth, and authenticity. I love being able to inspire people who may be going through hard times and show them that dreams don’t die if you keep pushing. My work also gives me the freedom to constantly evolve, learn, and step into new challenges without limits. Most of all, I love knowing that what I create can make someone feel seen, understood, or motivated to keep going.

What is my idea of happiness?

My idea of happiness is living a life where I stay true to myself while doing what I love every day. It’s waking up knowing I’m building something meaningful, whether that’s through music, business, or helping others. Happiness to me also means growth—learning from challenges, healing from the past, and becoming stronger with each step forward. Being surrounded by love, genuine support, and positive energy plays a huge role in my happiness. Most of all, happiness is peace within myself, knowing I didn’t give up on my dreams and that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. 

What is my greatest fear?

My greatest fear is giving up on myself or my dreams. I never want to let doubt, past pain, or outside opinions stop me from reaching my full potential. Fear pushes me to stay focused, keep growing, and continue moving forward. 

What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?

The trait I most deplore in myself is being too hard on myself. I sometimes hold myself to impossible standards and forget to acknowledge how far I’ve come. It’s something I’m learning to balance by giving myself grace while still striving for growth. 

Which living persons in my profession do i most admire?

I most admire artists who have stayed true to themselves while building lasting careers, like Amanda PerezBaby Bash, and Bizzy Bone. I respect their resilience, consistency, and ability to evolve while remaining genuine to their sound and message. Their journeys remind me that longevity comes from authenticity, hard work, and believing in yourself even when the road isn’t easy.

What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?

The thing I dislike most in my work is how unpredictable the journey can be. There are moments of uncertainty, delays, and setbacks that can feel frustrating, especially when you’re giving your all. However, those challenges have taught me patience, resilience, and how to trust the process. 

When and where was I the happiest, in my work?

I was happiest in my work when I saw my music connecting with people beyond my expectations. Moments like performing live, releasing projects I poured my heart into, and seeing my work recognized outside my hometown reminded me why I started. Those experiences made all the hard work feel worth it and showed me that my voice truly matters.

If I could, what would I change about myself?

If I could change anything about myself, it would be learning to trust my journey sooner. I spent a lot of time questioning my timing instead of recognizing that growth takes patience. Now I understand that everything I’ve been through has shaped me into who I’m meant to be.    

What is my greatest achievement in work?

My greatest achievement in my work is seeing my music reach beyond my local scene and gain wider recognition. Having my song featured on a Billboard in New York was a defining moment that showed me my hard work was paying off. It reminded me that consistency, belief, and never giving up can truly open doors.

Where would I most like to live?

I would most like to live somewhere that keeps me inspired and close to creativity, while still feeling like home. A place where music, growth, and opportunity are part of everyday life, but peace and balance still exist. Wherever that is, it’s less about the location and more about continuing to build the life and career I love. 

What is my most treasured possession?

My most treasured possession is my ability to keep going no matter what I’ve been through. It’s the resilience, passion, and belief I carry with me that no one can take away. Those are what fuel my creativity, my work, and my purpose every day. 

What is my most marked characteristic?

My most marked characteristic is my resilience. No matter the challenges or setbacks, I continue to push forward with determination, faith, and a strong belief in myself and my purpose. 

What is my most inspirational location, in my city?

My most inspirational location in my city is the Crossroads Arts District. Being surrounded by art, music, and creativity reminds me why I started and keeps me inspired to keep creating. The energy there reflects the passion and grind of Kansas City and always motivates me to dream bigger.

What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city?

I love food, so it’s hard to pick just one favorite place with so many amazing options in my city. Kansas City has incredible soul food and some of the best BBQ around, especially spots like Gates Bar-B-Q. The variety and flavor here truly reflect the culture and heart of the city.

What books influenced my life and how?

Books that have influenced my life are the ones that focus on growth, mindset, and believing in yourself. The Four Agreements helped me learn how to protect my peace and not take things personally, especially in a creative industry. You Are a Badass reminded me to own my confidence and stop doubting my worth. I’ve also been inspired by Think and Grow Rich, which taught me the power of mindset, consistency, and believing in a bigger vision. Together, these books helped shape how I approach my career, my mindset, and my personal growth.

You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?

On my last day, I would listen to music that feels real and full of soul. Songs by Amanda Perez for emotion and honesty, Mary J. Blige for strength and healing, and Whitney Houston for pure passion and timeless vocals. I’d also play music that reminds me of where I came from and why I never gave up—songs that celebrate resilience, love, and faith. Music that makes me feel grateful for the journey and at peace with everything I lived for.

Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?

My heroine in fiction is Wonder Woman. She represents strength, compassion, and standing firm in who you are, no matter the obstacles. Her courage and belief in truth remind me that real power comes from within.

Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?

My real-life heroes are my mom and the people who have supported me through every high and low. Their strength, love, and belief in me taught me resilience and the importance of never giving up. They remind me that success means staying grounded, grateful, and true to who you are. 

Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?

One movie I would recommend seeing once in a lifetime is The Pursuit of Happyness. It’s a powerful reminder that resilience, faith, and determination can carry you through even the hardest moments. The story reflects the reality that success doesn’t come easy, but giving up is never an option.

What role play stories in my life and work?

Stories play a powerful role in my life and work because they allow me to turn real experiences into meaning. Through storytelling, I’m able to express emotions, lessons, and growth in a way that others can relate to and feel less alone. Stories help shape my music and creative projects by giving them honesty, depth, and purpose. 

What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ to me?

The words “You are the storyteller of your own life” mean taking ownership of my journey, my choices, and my growth. No matter what I’ve been through, I get to decide how my story is told and how it continues. It reminds me that my voice matters and that my past doesn’t define my future. 

Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?

My greatest fan, sponsor, and partner in crime is my mom. She’s been my biggest supporter through every high and low, always believing in me even when things got tough. Her love, encouragement, and faith in me mean everything and keep me going no matter what.

Which people or companies would I like to work with ?

The people and companies I would love to work with are those who represent authenticity, resilience, and real cultural impact. Artists like Amanda PerezTech N9neBaby Bash, and Paul Wall inspire me through their longevity, independence, and honesty in music. From a business and branding perspective, I admire Kim Kardashian for building a powerful empire rooted in personal branding and storytelling.

I would also love to collaborate with platforms that elevate artists and creators, such as SpotifyNetflixBETBillboard, and YouTube. Each of these people and companies represents growth, influence, and the power of telling stories that truly connect with the world.

What project am I looking forward to work on?

The projects I’m most looking forward to working on are my upcoming albums Stronger Pt. 2 and Still a Queen in Boots, along with a couple of new singles. I’m also excited to continue developing my film project, which allows me to expand my storytelling beyond music. These upcoming releases represent growth, confidence, and a powerful new chapter in my creative journey, and I can’t wait to share them with the world.

Where can you see me or my work?

You can see me and my work through my music releases, live performances, and online platforms. My music is available on streaming platforms like SpotifyApple Music, and YouTube. You can also find updates, visuals, and all of my latest projects on my official website, shaunaknapp.com. I continue to perform live in Kansas City and beyond, sharing my journey through music, visuals, and storytelling.

What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?

The words “Passion Never Retires” mean that creativity, purpose, and drive don’t have an expiration date. As long as I have a voice and a vision, I will continue to create, grow, and evolve. It reminds me that passion is something you carry for life, no matter the season or stage you’re in. 

I would invite independent creatives who built their careers through resilience, ownership, and staying true to themselves. Artists like Tech N9ne and Amanda Perez represent what it means to succeed without losing authenticity. I’d also love to hear from Baby Bash and Paul Wall, who have maintained longevity while staying connected to their roots.

From the indie business and creator side, I believe Kim Kardashian has a powerful reinvention story rooted in personal branding. I’d also invite creators connected to platforms like YouTubeSpotify, and BET, as they help amplify independent voices and real stories. Each of these creatives represents independence, evolution, and building success on your own terms.

How can you contact me?

You can contact me through my official website, shaunaknapp.com, where you’ll find my latest projects and contact information. For bookings, collaborations, or media inquiries, you can also email missionbriteent@gmail.com. I’m reachable through my social media platforms as well for additional updates and connections.

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