Women in Vinyl

Laura Olvera Ahmed—known as La Güira de ATX—is a vinyl DJ, record collector, and güirista whose work centers community, culture, and movement. Over the years, she has built a strong presence in Central Texas through dynamic DJ sets and live performances, including her role in the Selena tribute band Las Chicas en 512. She is also the founder of Cumbia Bajo La Luna, a monthly community event series that transforms public spaces into inclusive celebrations of music and dance. In recognition of her cultural impact and leadership, she received a City of Austin proclamation in January honoring her contributions to the local music scene.

At Track City Records, co-owners Donabel (Bel) Dacumos and Aubrey Espiritu have turned a shared passion for vinyl into an inviting downtown Escondido’s destination. What began as a shared love of music and record collecting, has grown into a place for discovery, connection, music, and community. As local residents and independent business owners, they’re on a mission to bring joy and a safe space for music lovers.

One of the driving forces behind Thirteen Records is co-owner Moog Rogers, whose love of records is matched by her long-standing connection to Dundee’s music community. Known for her knowledge, and instinct for great records, Moog has helped shape a space that feels both intentional and welcoming — where seasoned collectors and first-time diggers feel equally at home.

At the heart of Black Hills Vinyl is Jennifer Calabrese — the co-owner and operator whose love of records shapes the store. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, Jennifer oversees the day-to-day operations of the shop, thoughtfully keeping the bins stocked with both familiar favorites and soon-to-be discoveries. Her path into vinyl began more than fifteen years ago as a collector alongside her husband Michael, spending countless hours digging through thrift stores in the Boulder and Denver area. What started as a personal passion — and a Discogs side hustle to manage an ever-growing collection — slowly evolved into something much bigger.

Paige Brodsky is the Store Manager of Streetlight Records in San Jose and oversees marketing and promotions for both Streetlight locations, including Santa Cruz. What began as a short-term job quickly turned into a long-term career. Known for her deep knowledge and customer-first approach, Paige plays a key role in shaping the in-store experience and public voice of Streetlight Records. Her path reflects how many meaningful vinyl careers begin.

Records On Main, co-owned by Cassie, is a vinyl record store located in the heart of downtown Littleton, Colorado—just 20 minutes south of Denver. Opened in April 2025, the shop sits on Littleton’s historic Main Street and reflects the area’s strong sense of community, offering a curated selection of new and used vinyl, turntables, and music culture essentials for collectors and newcomers alike.

Megan Jordan and Patrice “Cadence” Ware are Los Angeles–based music professionals whose work spans artist development, music coordination, and community-driven cultural impact. Together, they represent a new generation of industry leaders blending creativity, technical expertise, and intentional balance both inside and outside the music business.

Lisa Schaffer has turned her lifelong love of music into Vinyl Chickie, a bright new record store in Glenside, PA. After years capturing live shows and documenting artists, Lisa created a space that blends her eye for detail with her passion for community.

Sayaka is the Head of Graphics at Precision Record Pressing (PRP), leading a talented prepress team that transforms digital artwork into stunning physical packaging—from jackets and sleeves to labels and specialty boxes. We’re excited to spotlight someone in graphics, a rarely discussed but vital part of vinyl manufacturing.