Client Testimonials
Featured Testimonials
“Kelli has a knack for seeing possibilities others don’t, and for seeing around corners as a visionary”
– Steve Jobs
“Kelli Richards has her finger on the pulse of the future of entertainment and technology.”
– Jerry Seinfeld
“What I get about you is that from a young age you were bright, you were precocious, you saw things that most people couldn’t see, and you weren’t afraid to say things that other people were afraid to say. You watched the Beatles being successful, and unlike others who wanted to be The Beatles, you said ‘I want to be the person behind the Beatles’. You think differently. No surprise that if we fast forward a little bit, when you thought ‘I need a mentor’ you sought out Steve Jobs. You aim high when you’re doing anything; go big or go home. You sought out Steve Jobs because, even from a young age, you knew you could approach anyone if you come from a place that I’ve got something of value for you — or I know something about you — this isn’t someone trying to take something from them.
Aiming high and being fearless about opening doors is what makes you a super-connector. It’s who you’ve always been. You’re a super-connector in two ways — 1) in how you’re not afraid to connect with people, but 2) from a young age you saw there was an overlap between content and technology, Hollywood and Silicon Valley, and you operated at that thin sliver between them — literally driving and thriving at the cutting edge of that convergence early on before most could envision them coming together. You have a super-power of connecting ideas and concepts from different worlds.”
Read More ▼– Rich Litvin
Owner, The Litvin Group
Coach to World Class Top Performers
“I have worked with Kelli for over twenty-five years on a variety of media related projects. Kelli is a consummate strategic alliances professional, and maintains an impressive network of entertainment and technology professionals. Kelli delivers significant value in connecting key influencers and decision makers.Kelli’s experience at the heart of the music and technology convergence is renowned and highly respected. She has superior relationships with decision makers in the space, and with major artists alike. Given the power to forge partnerships and strategic deals, her work is simply unparalleled. I have in the past, and will continue to recommend Kelli to all my Fortune 100 clients. Simply put, I trust & rely on her; one of my favorite people.”
– Ty Roberts
Co- Founder & CSO, Gracenote
Former CTO, Universal Music Group
“Kelli has been a powerful asset to our team at Intel Sports and Entertainment, especially with regard to evangelism of our True VR technology. As a seasoned digital media veteran, she’s well-respected and exceptionally well-connected with many of the top influencers in music, entertainment & brands who we wanted to explore building relationships with. Whenever I’ve mentioned an ideal target, she has C-level relationships with them. She has been exceptional to work with — and has enabled us to engage many of these ideal customers in active conversations with us to explore creative possibilities. We look forward to working with her again before too long — and I can’t recommend her highly enough to others in tandem.”
– Jeff Jonas
Chief Commercial Officer, Intel Sports & Entertainment
“Kelli is your universal adapter; the only one you need. If you need to get connected to influencers and innovators in digital music, media & entertainment, Kelli will get you hooked up.”
– Todd Rundgren
Pioneering Musician, Record Producer & Tech Visionary
“Kelli Richards is an important resource in my world! Many are the times that I have benefitted from her insights, advice and connections. She’s particularly helpful to those who are contemplating their ‘second act’ in life & work.”
– Stewart Copeland
Musician, Composer & Drummer for The Police
“Kelli is an extraordinary entrepreneur with a successful track record in the corporate world. She has a phenomenal grasp of holistic principles and is now turning her attention to working with people who would like to expand their business while also expanding their inner life. I trust that anyone who chooses to work with Kelli, will grow spiritually, materially, and professionally. And most of all your life will be better.”
– Alan Cohen
Best-Selling Author, Master Coach
“Kelli is a rare maven, connector, business strategist and soulful brand guide.” I realized after send a few hours in her presence, that she is extremely perceptive and quick in sizing up people, situations and business possibilities. Kelli is a catalyst for world class brand development. If you are looking to put more life and energy into your company or brand – call Kelli!”
– Jerome Conlon
Founder, Brand Frameworks, LLC
Former Global Director, Nike
Former VP Starbucks
Former SVP NBC
“Kelli has a unique set of skills that are helpful to both corporate leaders and entrepreneurs alike. She combines the ability to understand where her clients are coming from (strategic insight), with “out of the box” thinking – essentially helping one design a unique go-forward plan for life at work and or personal life. She practices “integration” — assisting her clients to integrate their strengths, experiences and dreams into a focused plan of attack. She is a great strategic brainstormer — and also has many unique ideas & suggestions for practical implementation of plans.
She is thoughtful in how she applies her contacts and connections, and I am repeatedly amazed at how many of her introductions have been ‘direct hits’ for what we’ve been working to accomplish together”.
– Randy Haykin
Silicon Valley Exec, Venture Capitalist, Winemaker,
Philanthropist and Founder of The Gratitude Network
“When I launched Huawei’s first podcast channel, one of my goals was to interview high profile tech executives and Key Opinion Leaders. Having worked with Kelli in prior roles, I quickly reached out to see if she could help. I was not disappointed. In short order, Kelli helped us secure over two dozen tech industry thought leaders and the results were way beyond expectations. I highly recommend Kelli for any project that requires securing celebrities in any area, whether music, entertainment or tech. It seems she knows everyone in Hollywood and in Silicon Valley.”
– Scott Jamar
VP of Industry Relations, Huawei Technologies, USA
“I’ve known Kelli for many years, and one thing I can say for sure is that she understands established artists — she’s spent a huge amount of her career and energies supporting us by participating in the development of new technologies, new distribution strategies, new ways for us to engage directly with our fans, and new ways to monetize our work and our brands. As importantly, she resonates with us as artists — she understands at a deep visceral level what makes us tick, and is deeply & authentically committed to serving us to truly be working and living in a way that serves our deepest passions & is most fulfilling. She’s a gifted strategist and well-connected. If you’re an established musician, you could do no better than to explore the gifts of having a navigator, guide and trusted advisor in Kelli by your side.”
– Craig Chaquico
Platinum-Selling Lead Guitarist, Jefferson Starship, & Award-Winning Solo Acoustic Guitarist
“Kelli Richards is very well connected, I found that out the first week we worked together. She seemed to know everybody, not only in Silicon Valley, but also throughout the entertainment industry. She has the intangible ability to cut through the minutia and get directly at the heart of a situation. But, to me, her greatest asset is her ability to deal with people. High tech and traditional, a unique combination. That’s Kelli Richards.”
– Greg Kihn
Musician, Author & Notable DJ
“Kelli is a trusted advisor and connector in my career and life. Having been relatively successful in my corner of the music business, after selling a company I wanted to explore new opportunities in work and life. Working with Kelli gave me the insight and freedom to enact a number of creative endeavors I had been putting off for too long. She has also provided me with connections to leaders and influencers across Music and Tech to create my next adventure. Regularly connecting with Kelli has been truly transformative for me. I’ve learned how to maintain an effective work-life balance, and am now able to appreciate and enjoy those small moments that make life worthwhile and that matter the most to me.”
– Matt Adell
Former Chief Digital Officer, Native Instruments
Founder & CEO, Metapop
Former CEO, Beatport
“I’ve known Kelli for over 25 years; she and I have engaged as colleagues and peers. I find her to be an innovative and passionate leader who knows how to drive change.”
– Nancy Duarte
CEO, Duarte, Inc., & Best-Selling Author
“Kelli has been an invaluable resource to me as I’ve made the transition from corporate executive to tech startup entrepreneur, providing valuable guidance to me both personally and professionally. With her extensive business and cross-industry experience, she asks just the right questions to get me thinking about my business in new and impactful ways. She also provides excellent and insightful recommendations both about strategy and execution. One of her greatest talents is her ability to help you get clear and more focused around your goals, while also ensuring that you maintain a healthy and balanced life. She is also a super connector, and is incredibly generous about making introductions to influential people who can help advance your business. I highly recommend Kelli to anyone that’s looking to accelerate their business, get clarity on their personal or professional direction (their ’next move’), and is serious about performing at their top of their game in all areas of their life.”
– Trisha Bright
Founder & CEO, GoodSocial, Inc.
“Being an independent creative person can sometimes be a treacherous road filled with potholes, peaks and valleys. At various times in my own freelance career I’ve found myself stranded at the intersection of doubt and uncertainty, unsure about my next step. On several of these occasions Kelli has given me valuable insights and advice that have gently nudged me back on my path. She ‘gets me’, and she has the experience, the contacts and the credibility to back up her priceless wisdom & invaluable insights.”
– Paul Myers
Author and Musician
“I hired Kelli as an advisor to help me assert myself as the business leader I know I’m destined to become. Her creativity, patience, and loyalty were exactly what I needed as she challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. Kelli has continued to work tirelessly to help me achieve both my personal and professional goals.”
– Maci Peterson Philitas
Founder & CEO, On Second Thought
“On behalf of everyone at Pollstar I would like to congratulate you on a superb job in producing and assembling the talent for our annual Concert Industry Awards show for nearly 20 years. The quality of our show and its participants has gotten markedly better in each of the years you have worked on it. I know that we could not have accomplished everything and created such a well-run and enjoyable annual event without your help. We look forward to working with you to produce more great shows together over the coming years.”
– Gary Bongiovanni
Editor-In-Chief, Pollstar
“Working with Kelli greatly accelerated and brought my dream of a career switch to reality. She has many tools immediately ready at her disposal. To name just a few: perspective, connections, confidence and a belief in me and in what was possible. What helped me the most was maintaining a clear sense of where I was going and what I had already accomplished during my rapid transformation, the connections that she was able to facilitate that made my switch effortless, and her belief in my ability to do what I had set out to do — and more. I’m grateful!”
– Keith Elliott
Post Production Technical Director, Ringling College of Art & Design
Owner & Audio Engineer, Resonant Rhythm
“My late father was the Co-founder and President of the Sheraton Hotel Chain, and he used to say, “One good idea can change your life.” Kelli Richards is the kind of person who provides you with a great, free-flowing abundance of good ideas that can help you identify and move closer to your most important goals. I admire her, I trust her, I respect her, and I’m continuously amazed by her insights and wisdom.” View video version.
Mitzi Perdue
President and Founder of Win This Fight, Stop Human Trafficking Now!
“Kelli has a rare combination of business acumen as well as emotional intelligence, providing special and valuable insights for creative innovators and their work. Her perspective helped clarify my own thinking around my wants and needs, and she was able to see possibilities and strengths in my history and self that I had overlooked, as well as new opportunities I hadn’t considered. Ultimately, our work together helped lead me to a new job and a new outlook.”
– Anu Kirk
Long-time music/entertainment/tech entrepreneur and musician
“When Kelli and I began our journey together, I was so anxious to make a name for myself and to create greater alignment between who I am as a person and what I do in the world. I was in a perpetual knot of confusion, anxiety and stress. I am confident that working with Kelli spared me YEARS of wandering in the wilderness in my journey toward self-actualization and self-transcendence.
I can now say: I am a recognized global change maker who makes a positive difference on several scales. The impact of my projects is felt in nations, cities, and communities around the globe. I am a sought-after coach, consultant, and speaker who has been invited to share my voice and experiences internationally. I’ve been asked to help advise on global initiatives that advance humanity and usher us into a newer, better future. It’s what I’ve dreamed of and so much more.
This wouldn’t have been possible without much of the foundational work Kelli and I did on my relationship to self, my relationship to my past, and a re-alignment with the best version of myself. My deep work with Kelli helped me better identify and re-engage in the many places in my life where I was stuck and surrendering my personal power. With her support, I made powerful strides in re-balancing several key dynamics I was unknowingly creating and perpetuating.
By working with someone of Kelli’s level of awareness, achievement, and insight – she helped me get out of my own way to identify and claim my place and my sovereignty – something that’s eluded me for more than 15 years! This was huge.
Lastly, Kelli helped me to accept and embrace that my impact is meant to be – and in fact, must be – collective, global, and intergenerational. Whenever I doubted myself, fearing I was being self-important or grandiose (or just plain scared of living into my full potential), she would set me straight every time. She cares deeply and really believes in me and my success wholeheartedly. Thank you, Kelli, for helping me set the trajectory for my next chapter, and beyond! “
– Abby Lehman
Abby Lehman, LLC
“Kelli helped me bridge the gap from the corporate world to becoming an entrepreneur during the pandemic while raising two toddlers. No small feat! She empowered me to design a multi-spoke business plan that included passive revenue streams. She challenged me at every turn while empowering me to listen to my inner voice and follow my dreams. I could not have spread my wings without her being the wind in my sails as I successfully launched two complementary businesses with two unique differentiators. I’ve gone on to author and publish a best-selling book and to realize my dream of creating a line of dolls that reinforce my brand and message for the next generation of women leaders; both of these would have been more challenging to manifest without Kelli’s guidance and encouragement. Kelli has positioned me to be the best I can be while continuing to lead with courage and confidence with bravery as my shield.”
– Gayle Keller
International Bestselling Author
“Kelli’s contributions as co-producer of ‘MusicBiz 2005’ have been essential. Her relationships and management of them, as well as her conceptual abilities have been a cornerstone of the business we have been developing. I can’t imagine that it (the conference) would have happened without her. For starters, she brings a tremendous understanding of the market, a stellar reputation, loyal relationships among the leaders in the field, highly developed written and oral communication skills, untiring work ethic, excellent team building skills, and total reliability. Needless to say, it has been a pleasure to work with Kelli and I am completely satisfied with the experience. I would absolutely recommend her to business colleagues, though I hesitate to see her drift too far away…I’d like to continue working with her myself!”
– David Schwartz
Former Chairman of Music in Schools Today
Former Editor of Mix Books
“Allow me to share with you some of how I perceive the unique value you bring to the table. You bring such a heartful connection along with a sharp, quick, and precise understanding that it feels like you entered our world and joined us there. That alone is quite special and unique. But it is coupled with a creative and masterful sense of what is possible and what is needed next to bring it there. You extended and expanded our vision beyond the current horizon we saw, and that was both delightful and inspiring. And of course, you truly are a super connector — second to none. The vast wealth of connections, personal relationships, and deep and varied experience you weave into your work is simply invaluable.”
– Jeffrey Rutstein
Clinical Psychologist & Co-Creator, New Initiation Training
“I have found Kelli Richards to offer a unique combination of skills and insights. With each project we have worked on together, Kelli has surprised me with a level of connectedness to both the industry and the personalities we were involved with–the recording industry, the film industry, digital media–even the automotive industry. I value our professional relationship and am always curious to see what Kelli has going next.”
– Henry Eshelman
Platform Media Group
Former SVP & Managing Director, Baker/Winokur/Ryder PR
“Kelli Richards’ knowledge of the digital content market is as deep as her network of key contacts is wide. She is a truly professional guide in a complex and rapidly evolving environment.”
– Nic Garnett
Nic Garnett, Principal, Interight
Former CEO of IFPI
“Kelli is truly amazing: she knows so much about every angle of the entertainment business, she has a network that’s larger and more active than anyone I know, and she is very diligent and tenacious, yet fun to work with and a pleasure to be around.”
– Gerd Leonhard
Global Futurist, FuturistGerd.com, CEO, The Futures Agency
Former Founder & CEO of Think and Link
“Kelli takes the concept of strategic alliances (i.e. “dot-connecting”) to a whole new level. Having driven digital music initiatives for Apple for nearly a decade, and having worked closely with marquee musicians and other creative leaders and digital music technologists across the entire ecosystem– Kelli’s rolodex is truly among the most impressive I’ve come across.
When she named her advisory firm “All Access Group,” she wasn’t kidding! Kelli brings the talent of an artist, the business sense of an executive, and the experience of a veteran to every project she elects to undertake.
My firm (Cogentic Advisors, www.cogentic.com) started collaborating with Kelli beginning in 4Q 2008, and we’ve since formed a highly synergistic alliance — we are working together to tackle several large capital raise projects, and helping many of our clients accelerate their performance through strategic business development across the digital media ecosystem. When dealing with industry leaders, it helps to know that you are working with the best. A true professional, with the utmost integrity — and a balanced life — Kelli has achieved what most can only dream about. We’re proud to have her as a primary strategic alliance partner & collaborator.”
– Robert Yamashita
Managing Director & Co-Founder, Cogentic
“Kelli is amazing, not only because she is a successful business woman, self-made and great at what she does; but more so, because she is intelligent, productive, insightful and truly has a deep understanding of the ever-evolving landscape, in which so many others become lost. If you want to find the smartest way forward, just follow Kelli.”
– Peter Rafelson
President, Rafelson Media
“Kelli knew what ‘convergence’ meant when most people thought it referred to the intersection of the 101/237 (Bay Area) freeways. She has been deep in what the Internet has now become since the beginning (even before the beginning with things like music and CD-ROM multimedia). She’s a great strategic thinker and networker, and it has been a pleasure to work with her and keep in touch through the years. I highly recommend her and her company, The All Access Group.”
– Brad Cooper
Founder & CEO, Human Radius (fellow Apple Alum colleague)
“Kelli’s no-nonsense approach to the world of technology and entertainment marketing is very much appreciated in an ever-changing business and media world. Her attention to detail and enthusiastic embrace of the evolving nuances of the new media space make her the ideal sounding-board. I look forward to continuing to work with Kelli in the future.”
– Kimberly King Burns
Founding Partner & CEO, CONVERGENZ/Solutions
“Kelli, thank you so much for helping us get unbelievable auction items for the Northern Virginia Family Services gala over the years. The signed guitars from Imagine Dragons, KISS and Brad Paisley were huge hits, as were the items from Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce, Bette Midler & many others. Families at risk in the DC region are now better off because of your help.”
Fred Diamond Video Testimonial: https://www.youtube.com/v/SxtkKwRKluw?version=3&hl=en_US
– Fred Diamond
Principal, DIAMOND Strategic Marketing
“Truly a force of nature and not to be missed, the tools and insight provided by Kelli in this podcast should be required listening for any Pyramind student and should not be missed by anyone considering a career in music!
This was one of the most amazing presentations in this series, and Pyramind hopes to bring Kelli back for another presentation. Her frank insights were embraced by all of the students, and as many of the technologies she spoke about become the “norm” in today’s music industry, Pyramind hopes she will pay us a few more visits.” (Listen to replay: http://www.pyramind.com/evolution/guest-lecture-series/kelli-richards.html)
– Greg Gordon
President, Pyramind and NARAS Trustee
“Kelli Draws a Crowd! I’ve received tons of e-mails claiming our podcast interview was the very best. It was great fun having you; let’s do it again soon!”
– Jim Griffin
Co-Host, Smartest Person in the Room podcast
Owner, Cherry Lane
“What can I say? We asked Kelli for an intro to a couple of managers once, and got back some of the biggest names who all responded to us straight away. She’s a magician!”
– Steve Mayall
Founder/Director, MusicAlly
“Kelli has proven to be an excellent resource for Red Herring Events. She contacted over 50 musicians and celebrities for our Herring on Hollywood event. Kelli is both professional and a pleasure to work with. With her assistance, we were able to book the musician Ice-T to speak on the music panel. We will definitely be using Kelli’s services for future events.”
– Beth Curran
Event Producer, Red Herring Magazine
“Probably the most beneficial thing in working with Kelli has been that I’ve had someone I trust/respect who I share similar belief system with to touch bases with as a high-level thinker/conspirer and ‘outside eye’. I have also appreciated and benefited from the accountability structure she has created for me. I’m noticing time more (valuing it more, enjoying it more, worrying about it less, but also being cognizant of using it well) as a result. I’m acutely aware of the progress that I’ve made in personal and professional growth as a result of our work, and am grateful for the partnerships and connections I’ve made courtesy of Kelli’s intros that are (and will be) valuable to me in future ventures and endeavors.”
– Jamie Hultgren
Creative Director/Buyer/Fashion Designer, Enze Apparel
“I engaged Kelli during a pivotal time during my career, and I cannot imagine having navigated so many storms without her unwavering support and guidance. She helped me refind my conviction and “use my power” as I moved from a large corporate role to a CEO role. During each of our sessions she would offer great ideas to stay ahead of the curve and in control of my story and messaging. She pushed me further and higher than anyone I’ve ever worked with before. For anyone at a crossroads or in need of a career boost, Kelli is unparalleled. I value her real world perspective and because she comes from direct experience her advice is relevant, actionable and effective. I wouldn’t be where I am now without Kelli’s support!”
– Shauna McIntyre
CEO, Sense Photonics
“I have known Kelli for well over a decade. I consider her to be one of our generation’s greatest and most innovative technology leaders. Kelli is a forward thinker who keeps us all motivated with her positive and ethical values. I’m proud to have maintained a healthy long term business relationship with her, and am honored to call her an advisor and a friend.”
– Eren Niazi
CEO, Open Source Storage
“Kelli’s guidance has showed me creative and inspired possibilities I’d never have considered to take my brand/presence to the national stage as a political analyst and commentator. As importantly, she’s taught me to believe in myself, how to get out of my own way, and to think and act on a grander scale. She’s opened doors to opportunities and influencers for me that I never dreamed I could engage with & I’m truly grateful.”
– Joyce Stoer Cordi
Radio Talk Show Host & Founder, Reimagine America
“Kelli is a true visionary. Her insights and advice provided game-changing direction for me and my organization during a key transition period. She is a true connector of people across nearly every industry and does an incredible job of opening up possibilities. She is a joy to work with!”
– Dr Shoshana Ungerleider
MD & Founder, End Well
“Kelli is an incredible strategic partner for anyone who wants to embark on a new career &/or life path — or significantly redesign their existing one. She believes in your talents but she also can see blind spots or hidden mis-perceptions that may be holding you back. Kelli helped me to gain confidence in myself and together we created a strategy that could bring feasible results as I move from being a consultant to a coach. Her approach with me was to tap into my growth mindset and to set up a plan to come up with the results by supporting key milestones and celebrating achievements. Kelli is a fun and enjoyable person to work with. She is truly a trusted partner for someone who wants to reach their next level of personal and professional mastery.”
– Elena Vassilieva
Scrum Expert & Agile Coach
“Kelli, you’re a great business coach, and anybody who’s even remotely related to your field of entertainment or technology, or music particularly, they need to call you, no doubt about it.”
– Libby Gill
Branding Expert and CEO of Libby Gill & Co.
“I’ve had the distinct pleasure of being mentored and coached by Kelli. During our time working together I found Kelli to be very professional, insightful, tough and extremely helpful. She helped me in multiple areas of my life and we systematically worked on improving each of these areas with education, instruction and goal management. I can say with 100% confidence that I would not have achieved the level of success that I did without Kelli’s help. The change in both my professional and personal life has been nothing short of dramatic.”
Bob S.
San Jose, CA
“Kelli’s wholehearted support and belief in me absolutely made the difference in my success as she coached me to a level of vibrancy and authenticity in my life that I didn’t know were possible! As Kelli held me accountable, my self-responsibility escalated to that of outstanding. Kelli’s encouragement motivated and challenged me to really stretch my goals and continue to take on more each week. Her compassion created a safe area for me to courageously face my fears and vulnerabilities, guiding me to a place of amazing empowerment. Thanks to Kelli’s excellent coaching every area of my life is now fun, fulfilling, inspired and purposeful.”
– Linda K.
La Jolla, CA
“Kelli is a very clear, honest, and direct life coach. Her intuitive presence empowered me to reach deep inside myself to find my own answers. Kelli’s laser-focused attention led me to deeper clarity around my authentic self. Throughout our journey together, I experienced her support as unwavering and profoundly wise. I’ll always be grateful for Kelli in my life.”
– Michele L.
Tiburon, CA
“Kelli’s guidance and support was instrumental in getting me on track for the life I’ve been dreaming of. In the months we worked together, I bought a house, lost weight, increased communication in my relationships and got clarity around my goals and the subsequent requirements to achieve them.”
– Sarah C.
Mountain View, CA
“Kelli is committed to excellence and success and shows this in her coaching through rigorous and unflinching honesty that goes bone deep. I found her to be extremely supportive and I accomplished an incredible amount in the time that I was coached by her.”
– Clare B.
Vancouver, BC
“I’ve engaged with Kelli at three different companies for a variety of different projects connecting technology and the entertainment space, and have always found her to be straightforward, easy to work with, well connected and responsive to the individual needs and requirements of a company’s current business situation. Because she has spent her career working with both high-profile brands and high-profile entertainers, Kelli is particularly adept at creating and communicating sales and marketing strategies that work well for both creatives and business leaders. She’s equally at ease in talking about digital technology with engineers, business strategy with executives, and tactical details with an event planner, which make her a powerful asset for a wide range of projects within technology and entertainment.”
– Greg Estes
GM, Media & Entertainment, Nvidia
VP of Marketing, Nvidia
Former VP of Marketing at Mozes
“I have worked closely with Kelli over the years. She is dedicated, committed and completely focused on everything she works on. She is a trusted colleague, a valued friend, and a reliable source for strategic information in this new age of digital music and entertainment.”
– Denzyl Feigelson
Founder & CEO, Platoon.ai
Music Synergist at iTunes (Apple Inc) & Original Member of the iTunes team
Former Founder & CEO of AWAL – Artists Without a Label
Former Manager of Kenny Loggins, Paul Simon & Other Major Artists
“I have worked closely with Kelli over the years. She is dedicated, committed and completely focused on everything she works on. She is a trusted colleague, a valued friend, and a reliable source for strategic information in this new age of digital music and entertainment.”
– Dave Jaworski
Principal Program Manager, Microsoft Teams Strategic Engineering
Former COO & CTO, The Lifebook Company
Former CEO of PassAlong Networks
“Kelli and I have worked together very effectively during the past couple of years. I brought her on board primarily to assist my division at Philips in securing content deals for our Connected Home product line. We put her extensive connections in the entertainment industry to good use, and she was instrumental in establishing some great relationships for us with all of the major record labels, as well as helping to secure key content deals with many of the top leading aggregators including AOL Entertainment, MP3.com, Radio Free Virgin, Yahoo, Film, Listen.com, and Playboy.com among several others.
She also did comprehensive outreach directly to roughly 100 or so top name artists offering them a new vehicle for reaching their fans through our connected home devices. Her rich knowledge, experience, and connections combined — both in entertainment and in technology — have been a great asset for us. Kelli has proven herself to be a valuable resource and extension of my team, and I look forward to continuing our work together for Philips as we move forward.”
– Jean-Marc Matteini
Director, Strategic Product Management at Faurecia
Former VP & Head of Consumer Products, Devicescape Software
Former GM of Connected Home Division at Philips Consumer Electronics
“Kelli has spearheaded our transatlantic interests with a speed and tenacity that is breathtaking. Her remarkable access to platinum-level artists and their representatives is already our guarantee of fast-track results, but it’s better than that – Kelli delivers great results! Our business relies on professionalism, respect and trust, and these are qualities that Kelli has augmented and harnessed to our genuine advantage.
I look forward to our continued success in working together, and value Kelli as an important and integral part of my team.
Proven and undoubted ability and track record in the creation of powerful connections across music, entertainment, and new technology. Kelli tells it like it is and she has never failed to deliver on every single project she has advised my organization on.”
– Mel Croucher
CEO, Jeeni, Automata & Deux Ex Machina 2
Former CEO of MyReputation.com
“Kelli is a highly valuable resource to our organization. She brings incredible depth of experience with an extremely impressive list of who’s who industry contacts and long-term relationships. Kelli is a creative, strategic thinker who one can always count on to own opportunities from beginning to end. Very results oriented, Kelli executes with focus, accountability, and integrity.”
– John Deegan
Sr Director, Global Partner Development, Microsoft
Former VP of Business Development, PassAlong Networks
“Kelli has a terrific sense of market timing and is vastly well connected to the media and tech industries. The combination of problem solving and door opening skills that Kelli can deliver has solved both specific problems for me as well as providing strategic options at two different companies now. I would recommend any executive who needs business solutions to secure Kelli’s services whether it’s that next big thing or a superstar you’re looking for she and her company will deliver — and in multiples.”
– Brian Hofstetter
Executive Producer, HDR Content (Color a Go-Go)
Former CMO/Founder of Trusight Inc
Former CEO of SEN-CE LLC
Former Director of Marketing at Zoran
“In this increasingly connected world, Kelli stands out as a pioneer and an expert – she is one of the best connected people I know. Her ability to put people together and have both parties grow and profit from the relationship is remarkable. For music, entertainment and technology in particular, she has built her reputation on filling a need where everyone succeeds and innovation happens – that’s a powerful and unique skill set.”
– Mike Sanchez
Human Resources Communications at Xiinx
Former Senior Manager, Global Brand Strategy at Cisco
Former Head of Marcom at Silicon Graphics (SGI)
“Mozes engaged Kelli to help us build out our presence in the brand space. We were already the leader in mobile interaction between fans and the music industry, so Kelli’s experience in music and entertainment was a great fit. Kelli did nothing short of a fantastic job helping to educate brands about the power of mobile marketing and the unique experience that Mozes has to connect them to their consumers through music. She is extremely diligent, strategic and creative, and was very proactive working with our sales team to ensure we maximized her extensive network to open as many doors for Mozes as possible. Even when Kelli did not have a specific connection to a target of ours, she was very effective in creating opportunity for us where none had existed previously.”
Curtis Thompson
Chief Revenue Officer, Feltsberg
Former VP of Sales at Oracle
Former VP of Sales at Mozes
“As an independent producer, consultant and entrepreneur I have worked with Kelli Richards over the last twenty five years. Kelli’s experience and her ability to keep herself on the pulse of what is happening on the entertainment and technology front has made her consulting, relationships and rolodex invaluable to many, if not all of my efforts. Our work together as consultants (MediaFusion, Inc.) in new media entertainment (The Digital Performance Series), internet (MoreCars.net) and technology (SmartNav Systems, Inc.) has been productive as well provided a “value-add” to our clients (and shareholders). I look forward to a long and continued working relationship with Kelli.”
– Jeffrey Diamond
Media-Technologist, Principal, JA Diamond Enterprises
Former Co-Founder & CEO, MediaFusion
“Kelli was instrumental in the development and video-on-demand service. By bringing her strong domain expertise, boundless enthusiasm and “A-list” roster of industry contacts, we were able to establish our name in the media world remarkably fast. Kelli is someone who truly understands what it takes to launch a new service like ours, and will work tirelessly on behalf of her clients to get in the right doors, reach the right people, and communicate the right messages to get the important deals done. We find her to be a highly unusual combination of strategist, sales person, marketer and evangelist and our entire team has enjoyed working with her throughout our growth.”
– Josh Goldman
General Partner, Catapult VC
Former GP at Norwest Venture Partners
Former CEO of Akimbo Systems
“Kelli has the respect and attention of artists and executives alike, bringing both the audience and revenues they need. She honors her profession beyond the many honors she’s richly earned. She is of service to the digital entertainment community, and has the respect and attention of artists and executives alike, bringing both the audience and revenues they need. If you are looking to work with the best, bring your best to Kelli. She’s a true professional.”
– Jim Griffin
Owner, One House LLC
Former CEO of Cherry Lane Digital
Former CTO of Geffen Records
“Kelli was the Producer of an Interactive Broadcast show for EMN by the name of Music Nexus. She is hard working, and has great industry understanding and contacts. I was extremely satisfied with the results of our business relationship. Kelli always worked hard and completed her work in a quality fashion ahead of schedule. I would not hesitate to recommend her to my friends and business colleagues for future projects.”
– Chad Richard
SVP, Bus & Corp Dev at Yelp
Former Sr Director of Product Marketing, Apple Inc
Former Co-Founder/CEO of SimpleStar
“Kelli worked with us on our Sugar Mama initiative (helps our users earn free minutes of airtime by watching ads or participating in surveys). Kelli collaborated closely with me in particular to reach out to prospective consumer brand sponsors and encourage them to participate with us in this innovative program. Her ability to connect with top execs at these companies and to present the opportunity to them has been welcome and instrumental in helping us to forge long-term relationships with some of the most influential companies aimed at our target sector. We look forward to additional opportunities to involve Kelli in our ongoing initiatives.”
Scott Kelliher
Head of Brand Advertising Partnerships, eBay
Former Chief Development Officer, AOL Tech-Telco Category
Former Head of Corp Dev, Virgin Mobile
“I believe there is a picture of Kelli in the dictionary beside the term “social network.” If you are in the technology industry or the music industry you probably already know Kelli and know how good she is at what she does. Kelli’s knowledge of the music industry and Silicon Valley has earned her the respect of many industry veterans. Kelli is able to leverage her longstanding relationships to accomplish great results for everyone who has the good fortune to work with her.
I first met Kelli while working for an online music distribution company called Artists First. I was so impressed with her work that I asked her to help me launch my next project, Hotshop. At Hotshop, Kelli provided valuable strategic advice and introductions and literally opened doors to opportunities with prominent partners and venture capitalists.”
– Michael Spencer
Founder & CEO, SmartMoney International
Former CEO of Hotshop, LLC
“We engaged Kelli to open doors for us in the content industry. The breadth of relationships which Kelli brings to the table is remarkable, and reaches outside of the US to International markets as well. But beyond this, Kelli is also very aware of the shifts and movements in the thinking of content creators, producers, distributors and service operators, providing her client with a good map of how new messages, new distribution ideas will resonate in the marketplace. Beyond the contacts, Kelli brings the context. I have personally enjoyed working with her, and look forward to many more engagements in the future.”
– Hervé Utheza
Chief Data Strategy, Americas
Head of Media at HERE Technologies
Principal, Herve Utheza Consulting (Digital Media)
Former VP & GM of TV Properties at Orb Networks
“Kelli is a consummate professional, most attentive to relationships with artists, bands, management, and record labels. As anyone who has worked in entertainment knows, it’s an enigmatic industry – one that can pivot on a dime to the whims of popular culture yet conversely can morph slowly over time in other ways. Figuring out the enigma on a daily basis is how Kelli shines. Kelli gets where the industry has been and where it’s going. She’s been awesome in supporting our OnTour product lines, working with new and legacy artists, and helping us build a world-class digital content offering. Kellie is very well connected to the digital world and is a former major label A&R executive, so her strengths are with people. That’s probably why being with her is a great hang, whether she’s speaking on a music or technology panel, or talking over a STBX about music or business. In sum, Kelli’s unique strengths help those around her to bring music back into the music industry, and that’s a great MO for many of us in this industry to assume on a daily basis.”
– Scott Strandell
Senior Director, Global Content, PassAlong Networks
“Kelli is very well organized, energetic, creative, brilliant and has great people skills. Her resume is heavily weighted in technology and media/entertainment as they ‘ve converged. There are abundant opportunities in aggregation of content and new media distribution and monetization technologies, especially in wireless. Owing to her extensive relationships and experience in this space, Kelli can bring great value and leadership to these endeavors.”
– Mark Chasan
Chairman & CEO, AWE Global Inc
Former Founder/Chairman/CEO of Music
Former Chairman and Managing Director of Transformative
“Kelli’s contributions to our business were significant early on in terms of industry networking and general management of marketing communications. She has a long, rich history in the music/technology field and many contacts there accordingly. I was very satisfied with the results of our business relationship and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to others.
Kelli has been instrumental in enabling us, as an Australian company, to operate in the US market. Her contacts and her knowledge of how the market operates have opened doors for us in days where they would have otherwise taken weeks, if it were possible for us to open them at all (with VCs, music service providers, and large technology companies alike). She has been a genuine pleasure to work with, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her services to others. We look forward to continuing our productive association with Kelli as we progress further with our efforts.”
– Luke Carruthers
General Partner, 25Fifteen
Former CEO & Co-Founder at HiFinity Systems
“Working with Kelli has been such a pleasure. Her vast network, knowledge of the digital entertainment industry and professionalism is all part of her success. I have been fortunate to learn from Kelli and would recommend her anytime.”
– Tammy Camper
Global People Programs Mgr., Quantum Global Tech
Former Executive Recruiter for Motorola Inc
“Kelli has been instrumental in helping Tapwave establish relationships with top-tier content providers of music and video. She has a knack for bridging the technology and media business worlds, working tirelessly to find a relationship that benefits both. I’ve also found that she seems to know and have the respect of the key decision makers in both environments. Finally, Kelli is simply a pleasure to work with.”
– Scott Lincke
Consumer Products Management Lead, Emerging Products at iRobot
Former Sr Director, Connected TV & Emerging Market Products at Yahoo
Former Sr Director of Multimedia Strategy at Tapwave, Inc
“I want to extend my appreciation for the good work that you did in helping hone Wipro’s value proposition to the Entertainment segment, specifically to the film studios and record labels in Southern CA and their parents/subsidiaries on the East Coast. Your guidance and insights to the technical teams in packaging the solutions into a simplified manner was instrumental in the differentiation that was created around Wipro in this segment. The many Wipro introductions that you arranged with key contacts in the industry amongst people who valued your judgment should have a direct bearing in Wipro’s penetration in this segment.
Thanks for your patience in working with us through those tireless hours and multiple iterations to solutions, marketing plans and strategy sessions. I look forward to the opportunity of working with you once again and wish you the best in your future ventures.”
– Kanwar “KD” Singh
Managing Director at Accenture
Former VP at TIBCO Software
Former VP & Global Head, Wipro Technologies
“Kelli worked with us in the Fall of 2009 to kick-start our business development activities in the US. We have been very impressed by her drive and the depth and breadth of her network. As a direct result of her involvement we have made excellent progress and are now in trials and negotiations with some of the leading digital media companies and record labels in the US.”
– David Courtier-Dutton
CEO, Slice the Pie (UK)
“It has really been valuable and rewarding having Kelli on the Storymail team as our virtual ‘Director of Entertainment Alliances’. She has taken ownership of the entertainment vertical for us, and has opened doors for us with many of the most prominent film studios, record labels, artists, TV shows and networks. Her in-depth knowledge of the intersection between the technology and entertainment sectors has made her contributions invaluable to us in understanding market trends, players, and opportunities, and in being the primary business development liaison for us with the entertainment community. Kelli has been able to reach many influential decision makers in a broad range of entertainment companies on our behalf; this has expedited our ability to educate these leaders on how Storymail technology can impact their efforts in a significant fashion. We appreciate Kelli’s help in jump-starting this effort with & for us.”
– Eric Sternberg
President, Sapphire Journeys
Former Sr Marketing Manager, Cisco
Former VP of Marketing at Storymail
“Kelli’s Rolodex, access, and expertise were invaluable to us in a range of projects across the digital media realm. Her willingness to go the extra mile as an extension of our management team opened doors and made her a resource that we relied on. We would recommend her without hesitation.”
– Alex Baker
COO, Riptopia/BP Digital Media
“Kelli helped us to research, organize, launch, and develop a crucial part of our business. We were impressed with Kelli’s knowledge of the music industry. Her contacts helped us to quickly analyze our comparative marketing strengths and weaknesses. We learned a great deal from Kelli’s work and were more than satisfied with her performance.”
– Jim Hollenbeck
President, Hollenbeck Associates
Former VP of Marketing & Bus Dev, eStar, Inc
“Working with Kelli makes finding the right connections in the media & entertainment industry look easy. She was able to open doors to leaders in the sector and facilitate conversations with C-level execs, opening previous closed doors. She brought fresh insights, was extremely quick to understand our (automotive) industry and helped us to sharpen and focus our strategy intelligently. It’s been very impactful! We look forward to working with Kelli again in the future”.
