Shining Star - Jodie Gilbert

This month’s Shining Star is Jodie Gilbert! Jodie is no stranger to being awarded this title either. Back when she was living in Philadelphia, that MPI chapter named her a Shining Star as well. We’re glad Jodie moved to St. Louis so we could steal her talents away on our membership committee.

As a Live Entertainment Agent at TalentPlus, Jodie represents a boutique roster of phenomenal St. Louis bands, speakers, emcees, living theatre, variety acts and more while offering national talent buying services for clients. Her story started 18 years ago when she dove into the entertainment industry in Los Angeles and has quickly immersed herself in St. Louis’ culture of arts! Jodie’s story is fascinating, and we encourage other members to learn more! Here are some we learned when we named her this month’s Shining Star –

I'm not a native St. Louisian, but my father's family has deep roots here. Fun story: My great great grandmother was in a singing group with her 3 sisters, and they would perform at Uhrig's Cave (famous St. Louis beer garden on Jefferson x Washington) which was THE gig to have here in the late 1800s. Her name was Cora Eulalia St. Vrain; she was a talented St. Louis chick, and I named my daughter Cora after her.  

I enjoy being on the Membership Committee. I get to be a part of the conversation about what works for members in our chapter. I welcome finding out challenges for our members too. When COVID-19 started to take its toll on our industry, I appreciated the chance to connect individually with many of our chapter members.

The live entertainment was dealt an impossible obstacle when Covid hit. We have found that entertainers, storytellers, and musicians are essential workers, right? Be it a virtual gala, a neighborhood parade, or a restaurant patio brunch, I’m grateful for every chance to connect talent to the St. Louis community. During this time, I was able to do the COVID-19 awareness certification through OSHA’s accredited online 360 Training.

Thank you, Jodie, for your contribution on the Membership committee and your involvement in the chapter over the last three years!