(10-28-26) Mike and cohost, actress Violet Tinnirello welcomed singer songwriter and actress Tori Gideon to ConversationsRadio. From Atlanta, Georgia,12 years old Tori Gideon is a singer-songwriter and recording artist with a love for music that started almost as soon as she could talk. She began singing at the age of two, and some of her earliest songwriting attempts included a song about her curly hair and another about snow for her little sister. What started as childhood creativity has grown into a genuine passion for writing songs, performing, and connecting with people through music. Tori's musical influences are as colorful as her personality. From Bon Jovi and Led Zeppelin to Janis Joplin, Pink, Avril Lavigne, and Christina Aguilera, she loves artists who bring powerful vocals, big personalities, and real emotion to their music. Her own songs reflect that mix of classic rock energy, pop melodies, and meaningful storytelling. She's currently developing her music under the guidance of Mama Jan Smith, the renowned vocal producer and artist developer who has worked with some of the biggest names in music, alongside producer and mentor Jesse Owen Astin. She has also studied voice for years with Debbie Walker and is expanding her musicianship by learning guitar, ukulele, and piano. Her debut single, Glitter Punk 1985, is a fun, 80s-inspired pop-rock song encouraging her generation to put down their screens and experience life beyond technology. Her second release, Jericho's Wall, explores faith, courage, and finding strength when facing life's challenges. One of the things closest to Tori's heart is using music to help others. Inspired by the loss of a friend to childhood cancer, she helped create Glitter Star Fest, a music and arts event benefiting the American Cancer Society's fight against pediatric cancer. The event brings kids together to use their creativity to make a difference, something Tori believes young people are never too young to do. The American Cancer Society has teamed up with 12-year-old rock star Tori Gideon to headline GLITTER STAR FEST, a family-friendly community event sponsored by the American Cancer Society designed to shine a light on Pediatric Cancer through music, art, creativity, family activities and service. The heart of the event is kids helping kids. Every dollar raised throughout the evening will benefit the fight against Pediatric Cancer. LEARN MORE She wants her songs to spread light, joy, peace, and love, and to put smiles on people's faces. For Tori, music isn't just about being heard. It's about making people feel something, bringing them together, and hopefully making their day a little brighter. Check out Tori's homepage ToriGideon.com for links to her amazing music and events Follow Tori on Instagram @torigideonofficial! Enjoy the Podcast!