Catherine St. Germain is a vocalist, connector, and philanthropist with over 40 years of experience in the music industry. Her vast network of trusted friends and colleagues has allowed her to connect people to help achieve their goals.
If you could give your past self some advice, what would you tell you?
I would tell myself not to worry so much and that it’s OK to ask for help. It’s not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength. Even Superwoman asks for help when she needs it!
When you first started your career, how did you know you were ready and what made you start?
My Dad, Ray St. Germain, had a music variety TV show on Global called “Big Sky Country.” He asked my sister Chrystal Roy and me to co-star with him. It wasn’t really a point of being ready; it was an opportunity at 15 years old, to make some money. At that age, I didn’t have the desire to have a career in music, but that changed quickly. I was on my Dad’s show for 13 years, and at 18, I joined the Rocki Rolletti Band who had a show on CBC for two years. My stage name was Rita Rigatoni. After that, I started my own band called The Rage. It was a life of music and touring.
Who has been your greatest influence in business?
My dad was a huge influence. By working on the show, we learned quickly about the importance of being prepared and, most importantly, about being on time. My mother, Dr. Barbara Yunker, was also extremely influential. She completed her doctorate in psychology in her fifties and became a Professor of Psychology at Jacksonville State University in Alabama. From her, I learned to be tenacious and independent and that it is never too late to pursue something new.
Photo Credit: Tammy Charles Photo Credit: Ken Stewart
What is your number one business goal to accomplish this year?
I’m hoping 2021 will see a return to a more normal way of life than what we have experienced during 2020. I’m hoping live music venues will open again this year. I’m working with a great group of people to re-open one that will be awesome.
The slowing down that we experienced during 2020 allowed me uninterrupted time with my husband Mike Reno (Loverboyband.com), and we discovered we still really enjoy one another’s company. So, hopefully 2021 will be a blending of a return to musical tours but with extended periods of time to enjoy one another.
What do you have going on that you would like to share?
I work with Arthritis Research Canada. I became involved because my husband has arthritis, and I wanted to bring awareness to ongoing research and fund-raising efforts. I typically help to arrange the entertainment for the Arthritis Soiree Gala held in Vancouver each year but this year, the Gala will be virtual, and tickets will be available online across Canada. Presentations and testimonials will be interspersed with surprise musical guests. A virtual art gallery featuring Canadian artists will be accepting online bids. It looks like it will prove to be a wonderful experience.
