FYPC Podcast Ep 39: Eva Magdalenski, DJ EvAAA

Eva Magdalenski aka Eva Magazine aka DJ EvAAA is a GAME CHANGER. She is a certified DJ from Scratch DJ Academy, which was created by JMJ from RUN DMC. DJ EvAAA performed her first public appearance opening for Damien Marley & Major Lazer at Red Rocks Amphitheater. She spent 10 years working for comedian Chelsea Handler on TV’s “Chelsea Lately.” DJ EvAAA is also part of Richard Simmons National TV infomercial, “Project Hope.”

You can read about Eva in Chelsea Handler’s best-selling book, Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang, which hit number 1 on the New York Times best-sellers list. Eva also has her very own chapter (Eva is My Name, Comedy is My Game) in Chelsea Handler’s new New York Times best-selling book, Lies That Chelsea Handler Told Me.

Tune in to find out how Eva took action on her dreams on the Find Your Passion Career Podcast!

Growing up, Eva always loved comedy and entertainment and knew she wanted to be part of the industry. Her mom encouraged her to reach out to local entertainment companies and take action. This led her to an internship at Comedy Works, a comedy club, in Downton Denver. No matter the task, Eva took it seriously.

“I was really passionate about it, I gave it my all,” said Eva.

Eva even drove comedians to and from local radio interviews. One lucky day, Eva’s drove comedian Dave Chapelle. This once in a lifetime opportunity ultimately turned into a job offer.

“It was such an amazing feeling of just going for my dreams,” said Eva.

Seeking New Opportunities

Eva wouldn’t have gotten her big break if it wasn’t for the hard work she put into looking for new opportunities. Her secret weapon? Her mom, of course. “It’s all about looking at where you are and what it out there,” said Eva.

Conduct research to figure out how you can be learning more, interning like Eva or volunteering. Start local and get your foot in the door.

“It’s gonna be uncomfortable,” said Eva, “but the best part is that you’re doing it.” So set aside some time, even just 10 minutes a day, to ask yourself what you want.

Embracing Failure

During her time working as Chelsea Handler’s assistant, Eva decided to take action on another passion of hers: hip hop and DJing. She enjoyed curating playlists for Chelsea’s book signing events and selecting intro music for guests on the show.

Taking her passion to the next level, Eva enrolled in Scratch DJ Academy, a program which gives integrity to the world of DJing. When she began, Eva had no idea how to use a turn-table. “That was ok because I was gonna learn it,” said Eva. She described her time at the academy as a bombing over bombing experience.

“I love that I could embrace that feeling of failure but know I was getting there because I was failing,” said Eva.

She used the power of positive thinking to go for her dreams. “Don’t tell people your dream, show them,” said Eva, “I didn’t want to be out there talking, talking, talking—I wanted to be doing.”

Enjoying the Process

Eva is the epitome of ‘going for it.’ She uses her positive energy to steer her career journey and has gotten the hang of smooth sailing. Sure, there were bumps along the way, but Eva learned to leverage and appreciate them.

“If you don’t enjoy the process, you’re not gonna enjoy the dream when you get there,” said Eva.

Today, I challenge you to find the outlet that makes you happy just like Eva. Maybe even write a list. Then ask yourself ‘how can I apply what makes me happy into my work? My life? My free time? How can I build upon my passion and take action?

Listen to our podcast interview with Eva here on iTunes!

Once you’re inspired by Eva’s story, we’d love to read your review!