Hi! I’m Marta Kwiat. For nearly 16 years, I toured the globe as a roadie with some of the top artists in the world. If you’ve been to a concert in the last two decades, there’s a great chance we were in the same room. But before I share more of those stories, I want to talk about how I had to overcome self-doubt to take the first step in this incredible journey. My passion for life has always driven me to try new things, but overcoming the fear and doubt was key to getting started. Here’s how I did it, and how you can too.
Like many young women in my 20s, I enjoyed having fun but was primarily focused on college because it was expected of me. As the daughter of immigrants, not going to college felt like a disservice to my family’s sacrifices. I wasn’t sure if I would pursue a career in psychology, but it sounded good on paper.
One summer, my older brother left with friends to be stagehands at Bonnaroo Festival. I didn’t even know jobs like that existed! When he returned, his stories were thrilling, and I wanted in. But being the protective brother that he is, he shut me down, knowing how male-dominated the industry is. We placed a bet—if I won, he’d give me his employer’s phone number, and I’d try to get hired. Spoiler alert: I won the bet!
Taking the First Leap
With shaky hands, I called that number. Despite my lack of experience, they gave me a shot if I could drive from Florida to Detroit to help set up a stage for Ozzfest. This was the start of an incredible journey, but first, I had to overcome self-doubt. Taking action was the only way to fight it.
Packing to leave, my mom was both worried and supportive. I still laugh about how I packed—yes, I literally put my dresser drawers in my trunk! “Everything’s great, Mom! Don’t worry!” I told her.
Challenging My Self-Doubt
Dale Carnegie once said, “Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage.” My first job wasn’t the end goal, but it opened doors. I started working locally at concerts, gaining experience in sound, lighting, carpentry, and special effects. Over time, I connected with seasoned roadies like Tommy, Skuzzy, and Jim, who worked for a small lighting company in Illinois.
I desperately wanted to work with them, but no one answered my weekly calls or responded to my resume. Doubt crept in, and I began to wonder if I should return to college. My resume lacked technical experience, and I hadn’t toured before, so I didn’t seem like a strong candidate on paper.
But as T. Harv Eker said, “Successful people have doubts and fears, but they don’t let them stop them.” I decided to take one last shot—I booked a flight, rented a car, and showed up unannounced at the company to ask for a chance.
Winning the Fight Against Self-Doubt
That day turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. Despite a few embarrassing moments (too many Red Bulls!), I was hired! With my dresser drawers back in my car, I moved to Illinois, unsure of where I’d live but determined to continue overcoming self-doubt as I pursued my dream career.
Not listening to self-doubt led to a long career as a roadie, spanning 16 years. Along the way, I made lifelong friends, met my amazing spouse, and traveled the globe. Although I enjoy adventurous challenges, I balance it with what I once called “grannie hobbies” like reading, puzzles, and hiking. In the words of Auntie Mame: “Life is a banquet, and most poor suckers are starving to death!” I can’t wait to share more of these experiences with you and the life lessons I’ve learned.
Tips to Battle Self-Doubt
Here are a few things you can do to overcome your own self-doubt:
- Remind yourself what a boss you are: Hype yourself up! Be your biggest ally because no one else will do it for you.
- Everyone experiences self-doubt: You’re human! Mistakes happen. What matters is how you handle it.
- Celebrate your accomplishments: Focus on your small wins—they build up to bigger successes.
- Be kind to yourself: This is your first time living life. Every day is a learning opportunity, so don’t expect perfection.
I hope my story inspires you to take a leap and push through any doubts you have about your own path. I’ve learned so much from my journey as a roadie, and I’m excited to share more behind-the-scenes stories and life lessons with you. Have you ever had to overcome self-doubt? What helped you? Also, if you have any burning questions about what goes on behind the scenes at a live show, I’d love to hear from you! Share in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow “On The Record” and subscribe for updates.
