That crazy-pee-in-your-pants-jumping-out-of-your-skin excitement

I get crazy-pee-in-my-pants-jumping-out-of-my-skin excited when people have a vision and work hard with ease to make it happen. And they allow it to all unfold with divine timing. I remember years and years ago my friend Shannon sharing with me his epic-big-wild dream. He faced many obstacles that got in the way , but he persevered and stayed true to his vision. What happened was he created one of the most unique, magical and special musical events of our time. I reached out to him and asked if I could interview him and he said yes! I knew what he had to share would be mega-inspiring…and I was right.

Me: What is your big WHY for doing Rock-n-Roll Resort?

 Shannon: Being part of the crew for the first 10 Jam Cruises, I knew that it was something so magical and special and it was something that everyone had to experience firsthand.  I have friends who are teachers and accountants who really wanted to go and for them it’s a difficult time of year to take that time off.  Some of my friends craved the experience of Jam Cruise, but they can’t handle being on a boat. I found that many people who really wanted to be there simply couldn’t afford the adventure.  After year 2 of working on the boat, I had the initial idea while having a conversation with a friend.  I immediately ran out and bought up every derivation of the .com I could find.  I was truly fortunate someone hadn’t already acquired the name, as the title truly just speaks for itself.  I mean, “Rock n Roll Resort!” Doesn’t it seem to capture your attention and plant the visions right in your mind?

 Shannon: My biggest obstacle initially was that 4 years after grabbing the .coms, I still wasn’t in a financial position where I was able to invest into something so grand.  It was really difficult having such a dream, but not being able to execute it.  The next issue I ran into was that someone took my idea. I was so disappointed. Not that there isn’t enough room for everyone to throw their own event throughout the country or anything, but this event was called “Rock The Resort” and was within the radius  I wanted to be in.  After their first year I heard nothing but rave reviews of the event.  I was a little bummed, but I knew it was just a sign it wasn’t my time yet.  Unfortunately for the other guys, they found themselves in a situation after their 2^nd event, preventing them to continue on to produce a 3^rd event.

 Shannon: Well unfortunately I feel like the system of ‘humanity in the United States’ really puts a damper on people with big dreams.  When you’re younger you have dreams of becoming an actor or a musician or a fireman or even an astronaut; I feel as though as you grow up you start believing what you’re told by those around you even if it’s not the truth.  You start thinking only the super beautiful people become actors or that only super talented people become musicians or artists.  It wasn’t until I became a young adult myself that I realized not all musicians are super talented (LOL) and not all actors are incredibly beautiful.  I’ve learned a lot throughout my experience as a human being and if there was one thing I would say to help keep people motivated it’s if you’re willing to dedicate an hour or more of your day towards your passion, you will become a master of your art.  No matter how good you are at your art, there’s always going to be someone who’s better.  Don’t ever stop reaching for the apex of your dreams, even if those around you are better than you!  If anything, that’s a sign that you’re getting closer to your realization. It won’t be an easy path and there will be plenty of obstacles in your way, but use the motivation and energy of the positive people around you who support your dreams (like Taraleigh) to fill yourself with the drive. Never stop becoming better at who you are and what you are.  You’ll find yourself becoming a better person and you’ll start seeing yourself realizing your dreams!

Shannon: In all honesty, I get that exact feeling every time I walk inside Hudson Valley Resort, festival or not.  I’ve provided jobs for the staff at the resort and have helped keep the doors open during a time when more and more of these iconic pieces of history are closing down.