Having It All, On Her Own Terms with Victoria Monét

Summary

Episode Summary: "Having It All, On Her Own Terms with Victoria Monét"

Podcast: Baby, This is Keke Palmer
Host: Keke Palmer
Guest: Victoria Monét
Release Date: May 27, 2025

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In this compelling episode of Baby, This is Keke Palmer, host Keke Palmer sits down with the multi-talented Victoria Monét to delve deep into Victoria's journey as a Grammy-winning artist, songwriter, businesswoman, and mother. The conversation gracefully navigates through Victoria’s early beginnings, her rise in the music industry, balancing personal and professional life, and embracing authenticity.

Early Career and Entry into Music

Victoria Monét's passion for the arts began with dance during her school years. She recounts how she initiated a dance team in eighth grade by creatively securing sponsorship from Coca-Cola, demonstrating her early entrepreneurial spirit.

Victoria Monét [02:09]: "I started with dance when I was in first... I wrote a letter to Coca Cola. I started a drill team."

Her dedication continued into high school, where she trained rigorously under the Jabberwockies dance crew, aspiring to become a triple threat—skilled in singing, dancing, and acting.

Balancing Practical Needs and Pursuing Dreams

Despite her artistic ambitions, Victoria made pragmatic choices to support her dreams. At 18, she worked as a bank teller at Golden 1 in Sacramento, saving diligently for her move to Los Angeles.

Victoria Monét [04:43]: "I was using my songwriting money to fund my touring as an artist... So we gotta always balance it out."

Keke Palmer emphasizes the importance of maintaining financial stability while chasing one’s passions, highlighting Victoria’s strategic approach to balancing work and artistry.

Songwriting and Artistic Integrity

Victoria discusses her transition from poetry to songwriting, which became the cornerstone of her career. She shares how her first advance from a publishing deal was pivotal in sustaining her initial days in LA.

Victoria Monét [05:45]: "My first check was actually in advance, about $2,000 for my publishing deal... It allowed the girl group and I to share this studio apartment."

Rather than succumbing to external pressures, Victoria prioritized reinvesting her earnings back into her art, preserving her creative vision.

Navigating the Music Industry and Record Labels

Victoria addresses the challenges of being pigeonholed by record labels, advocating for maintaining her identity and artistic direction.

Victoria Monét [07:52]: "I try not to blame people for that and know that, well, songwriting is really successful for me right now. But what I'm going to show them is that so is my music."

Her perseverance in redefining her role within the industry underscores her commitment to authentic expression.

Personal Life and Relationships

The conversation shifts to Victoria’s personal life, including her relationship with British artist Stormzy. They discuss the dynamics of dating within the public eye and maintaining privacy.

Victoria Monét [20:30]: "Anybody that I feel like we're standing next to, definitely dating."

Victoria emphasizes mutual respect and support as foundational to their co-parenting journey.

Embracing Motherhood and Its Impact

Motherhood plays a significant role in Victoria’s life and artistry. She shares how having her daughter Hazel enhanced her time management skills and influenced her creative process.

Victoria Monét [18:15]: "Motherhood definitely taught me time management... I have to do the same great work within two hours as I would have done in ten hours."

Victoria also discusses her book, Everywhere You Are, which addresses separation anxiety for working moms, aiming to provide comfort and understanding to children and parents alike.

Victoria Monét [26:32]: "The book... allows that message to be received."

Authenticity and Sexuality

Victoria opens up about her bisexuality, highlighting the importance of authenticity and the supportive community in Los Angeles that empowered her to embrace her true self.

Victoria Monét [25:16]: "Coming to LA, I feel like I found a great community of people who are supportive and have those same characteristics."

She underscores the significance of using correct pronouns in her music, reflecting her commitment to inclusivity and truthfulness.

Writing "Everywhere You Are"

Victoria elaborates on her book, Everywhere You Are, which serves as a tool for children to understand separation anxiety. She describes the collaborative process with her daughter Hazel, who acted as her first reader and editor.

Victoria Monét [29:00]: "Hazel was able to experience all of them... she kind of like edit an editor."

The book utilizes celestial metaphors, portraying Victoria and Hazel as the moon and stars, symbolizing their enduring connection despite physical distance.

Victoria Monét [30:22]: "Stars and moon go together. There is no universe where there is no star and no moon."

Patience, Gratitude, and Perseverance

A recurring theme in Victoria’s journey is the practice of gratitude and patience. She shares her daily routine of maintaining a gratitude journal and reading inspirational literature to stay grounded.

Victoria Monét [38:13]: "I start my day with a gratitude journal... because the patience and being grateful for what you already have."

Keke Palmer echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of focusing on personal growth rather than external comparisons.

Winning a Grammy

Victoria reflects on her Grammy win, describing the overwhelming emotions and the collective effort that led to her success.

Victoria Monét [34:58]: "I've never felt butterflies like that before... it was amazing. I wanted to bring my entire everyone who ever helped me on that stage."

She credits her team and steadfast commitment to her artistry as key factors in achieving this milestone.

Working with Mentors like Usher

Victoria shares her enriching experience working with Usher, praising his mentorship and the invaluable advice he offers without being intrusive.

Victoria Monét [39:50]: "Usher is such a great mentor. He always has tasteful advice, but it's not intrusive."

Her relationship with mentors underscores the importance of supportive relationships in navigating the complexities of the music industry.

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Victoria Monét exemplifies resilience, authenticity, and dedication. Her journey from a passionate dancer and songwriter to a Grammy-winning artist and devoted mother serves as an inspiring blueprint for aspiring artists and professionals alike. Keke Palmer’s engaging interview sheds light on the multifaceted aspects of Victoria’s life, celebrating her achievements while highlighting the personal values that drive her success.

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Notable Quotes:

• Victoria Monét [07:25]: "I always took the money from songwriting. I wasn't going out to get the new whip and then the car, the house yet. I was putting it right back into my Artistry."

• Victoria Monét [25:59]: "I couldn't hold it any longer. And I think that's just a part of being authentic and true to ourselves."

• Victoria Monét [37:30]: "Perseverance and patience... make sure that she's happy. Because there's too many scenarios where people are going to jobs that they don't like."

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This episode not only highlights Victoria Monét’s artistic prowess but also her unwavering commitment to personal growth, family, and authenticity. It's a heartfelt exploration of what it means to "have it all" on one's own terms.

Transcript

[Keke Palmer]

This episode is presented in partnership with Airbnb. Baby, Memorial Day weekend is all about family, food and kicking off summer. And with Airbnb, you can celebrate in one of the most loved homes in America. All right, y' all, let's dive in, y' all. Today's episode is fierce. Like a cat. I'm sitting down with someone who is like a salt. Okay. She's a three time Grammy award winning artist, a songwriter to top artist, and an amazing performer. Businesswoman. Mama just like me. The mama part, I didn't write all the songs. She's got Jaguar energy, baby. Focus fierce. And finally, shining in the light she has always deserved. My girl Victoria Monet is in the building. Let's talk about everything and welcome to Baby, this is Keke Palmer. Baby, this is Victoria Monet. No matter what we doing in the car, just chilling, pop on Amazon music, sit back and listen. Life, love, sex, science, covering it all, especially the bad. Cause money always evolved. No matter what it is, we gonna make it make sense. Nothing else to do but kick it with the homies and kings. So grab you a drink and a snack you enjoy. And get into the vibe that only you know it's your girl. Baby, this is. This is Kiki. Baby, this is Kiki Palma.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Hey, boo.

[Victoria Monet]

How are you? So good to see you.

[Keke Palmer]

Hair is eating. Body's eating. Yes. Look is eating.

[Victoria Monet]

Thank you so much. Look at you. Oh, thanks, gorgeous.

[Keke Palmer]

How's everything been going? I feel like last time I saw you was at the Gold Party and we took that fire pic.

[Victoria Monet]

Oh, man.

[Keke Palmer]

With all the girls.

[Victoria Monet]

It went viral. It went viral. Yes. That was fun.

[Keke Palmer]

Yes, it was so fun. I'm so excited to talk about everywhere you are. Congratulations on this amazing book.

[Victoria Monet]

Thank you.

[Keke Palmer]

But first, I want to just start with, like, the beginning. I mean, you've been doing this for so long. I feel like I met you with Taylor and Ariana when we were like, I don't know, like 17.

[Victoria Monet]

Children. Yeah, children.

[Keke Palmer]

So for you, what was your entry point with music? You know, as an artist and as a songwriter?

[Victoria Monet]

Actually, I started with dance when I was in first. When I was in eighth grade, my school didn't have a drill team, so I was like, we need a dance team. So my principal was like, if you can get the sponsors and, and the staff members to do it, then go ahead. So I wrote a letter to Coca Cola. I started a drill team. I was out there teaching the girls. And then in high school, I was training under Jabberwockies. I was serious. I wanted to be a dancer, but I always wanted to be a triple threat. I just didn't have the confidence and courage to do it as a kid. And then dance gave me the courage to really step out on that stage.

[Keke Palmer]

You know what that makes me think about the first video that I saw of you and I. I'm gonna butcher the name, but the video starts with you on, like, a little balance type beam.

[Victoria Monet]

I think you're already ready. Oh, my God.

[Keke Palmer]

Ready. When I tell you that I watch ready, like, every day.

[Victoria Monet]

A throwback.

[Keke Palmer]

I loved it. Cause I said, this girl, she's talented. Cause the song was fire. The singing was great, but also the performance, the level.

[Victoria Monet]

We love dance.

[Keke Palmer]

Girl, you killed it. So to hear that you started out as a dancer as well, like, I just love knowing that backstory. Because from that moment when I saw you killing it in that video. If y' all have not seen Redi, the Real OG Victoria Monet fans know.

[Victoria Monet]

She knows that video ain't down. Thank you. It was choreographed by Jaquel Knight. Oh, my gosh. Well, we met through this program called Monsters of Hip Hop, which was dance. And I was in the group with him. Paris Goble was also in that dance crew. So it was like, it's just all full circle. It's crazy.

[Keke Palmer]

Well, when did you realize? I mean, obviously you started with the drill, team dancing, but when did you realize this could be a real career? Like, that this was your personal purpose?

[Victoria Monet]

I would say high school, the end of high school, just really, really focusing on songwriting and starting to record my own music and write my own music. Then I started with poetry as far as writing, and then transferred into songwriting. And then I came to LA to audition to be in this girl group called Purple.

[Keke Palmer]

Girl group is always the entry point.

[Victoria Monet]

Right. We got to be in a group first, and then we go solo. Yes, yes. But it was great. It was. I just realized that I can't go a day without thinking about music. And it just runs so much in my life that I was like, I need to be on stage, and I want to do something that would allow me to do the songwriting, the singing, and the dancing, and that's artistry.

[Keke Palmer]

So now, I also heard you were bank teller for a while. What point in your career were you.

[Victoria Monet]

Oh, my God.

[Keke Palmer]

How did you balance that? Because you need it. We need that job to help us make the money so we can do the dreams. So, like, at what. Where were you in your career where you had to balance the real life necessities and then still, like, following you Know your dreams.

[Victoria Monet]

I was about 18, yeah. Working at this bank called Golden 1 in Sacramento, and that's the job I quit to move to LA, but it was great because there was some 401k that I already had saved up and, like, some savings that I could use for moving here. So it was perfect.

[Keke Palmer]

I talk to people about that a lot where it's like, you sometimes think when you're following your dreams, you got to just do everything cold turkey. But, like, it's so, like, have what you need to have, you know what I'm saying? Be an entrepreneur, essentially, and take whatever you can from these maybe more traditional spaces that allow you to put money into your goals.

[Victoria Monet]

Right. That's always been the case for me too, even with songwriting. I was using my songwriting money to fund my touring as an artist. When I opened for Ariana to fund music videos, to fund the Ready. I was independent at the time, so I had to pay that out of pocket. And it came from other sources of income. So we gotta always balance it out.

[Keke Palmer]

What was that first check that you got from songwriting? What song was it where you were like, oh, wait a minute. This is also an. This is a career I can rock off of to help with this.

[Victoria Monet]

Well, my first check was actually in advance, and people will laugh if you know anything about the deals that you're able to get for songwriting. It was about $2,000 for my publishing deal, and I was like, yeah, I was so excited. Heck, yeah. Super, super excited. And it allowed the girl group and I to share this studio apartment that was $500 a month. I don't even know if a place in LA that cost that much.

[Keke Palmer]

That's why I'm like, what year were we in?

[Victoria Monet]

2009.

[Keke Palmer]

$500 a month.

[Victoria Monet]

Crazy CR. It was just one room for three girls, so just had to grind it out, you know.

[Keke Palmer]

Wow. Wow. And so how did you balance the dream of. Because I think what's interesting sometimes, like, you can be making so much money in one particular area that you sometimes forget about your. Yeah, you forget about your North Star. So as you started to continue to grow as a songwriter, I mean, making huge hits, like, seriously. I mean, people don't. I'm sure they know your credentials, and if they don't, they need to find out. How did you remember that? Victoria Monet is a star as well?

[Victoria Monet]

I always took the money that from songwriting. I wasn't going out to go get the new whip and then the car, the. The house yet. I was putting it right back into my Artistry. So that was always my goal and my intention.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

And I couldn't go a day without thinking about what I wanted to be on stage doing. I looked at artists like Beyonce and Janet and Aaliyah and being able to create that vision in music videos and tour the world doing what you love, and I always stuck to that.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

So I used to music and songwriting as a conduit to do so. It never really left. So it was always on my heart to do that. I think it just took a certain process. There was an order of business that needed to happen. I think songwriting was that order of business.

[Keke Palmer]

You have a lot of patience. Oh, yeah. Yeah. I mean, that's what it takes. And I'm sure your relationship with the record labels had to have changed as well, because that's something that, you know, anybody that knows, like, the trajectory of songwriting to. To music or anything that is a. Is a in between way to where you're trying to go. People can box you in for sure. How did you change your relations with some of the people you're working with, whether it be producers or even the labels, to say, like, no, this is. This is not for this person's project. This is for my project.

[Victoria Monet]

Right. I find that when you introduce yourself to people and you say, hi, my name is such and such, and this is what I do, they kind of get stuck to that vision. And you have to kind of, I guess, train everybody around you to see you differently by what you're doing the most. So if you say you're a technician and then all of a sudden you're doing car sales, like, they're going to, you know, associate you with how they originally met you. So I try not to blame people for that and know that, well, songwriting is really successful for me right now. But what I'm going to show them is that so is my music. And I just had to keep beating down that door of the stereotype that they tried to box me in within. And just now this is what I'm doing, majority of. And the narrative changes slowly but surely. Just having that grace with people who want to conversate with you about what you used to do only and just, you know, making it current, keeping them up with the current events. Like, yes, this is what I used to do, but this is not what I'm doing. And this is how I'd like to be addressed. It's like someone who changes their name. Like, maybe you knew someone in their life. Like, I used to call you Pookie, but now you're and then slowly you start to call them their new name. So.

[Keke Palmer]

And it's so interesting to me too, because being in the industry, maybe this is why I've always known you as Victoria Monet, the artist. And that I was always impressed that you could write too. You know what I mean? Because I've always known you to be an amazing singer, dancer, all that type of stuff. So was there a moment for you where you were like, maybe it's easier to be behind the scenes. Or I'll even say, what was it like over time, seeing so many people blow up off of songs you wrote? Baby, this is Iki Paul. My memorial Day is right around the corner. And there is nothing more special than gathering with the whole family together to honor this important holiday. And baby, I found the perfect way to celebrate. Booking an incredible Airbnb by a lake and throwing something on the grill. So y' all remember my winter ski chalet up in Big Bear with Gag Ass? This spot is a year round paradise. I mean, you're waking up to gorgeous lakeside views, breathing in crisp mountain air, all while the smell of barbecue floats up from the deck. That's the kind of magic I'm talking about. The space was empty. Everything. We had a massive deck where the grill master could show off their grilling skills. All while the rest of us played cards and splashed in the lake and the game room. Your girl might be a movie star, but everyone can catch these hands when it comes to Ms. Pac Man. Okay, what makes Airbnb so special is how it brings families together. All with more space for the fam to spread out privacy when you need it. Because, you know, sometimes the Palmers need a minute and locations that hotels could never match. The Memorial Day that's coming up is time to create the precious family memories and moments in a space that feels like home. Whether it's a lakeside retreat like my Big Bear spot or any of Airbnb's most loved homes, these are the places where memories are made. This episode is brought to you by Saks. Spring has sprung. Okay. The fashion is fashioning and it is time to shed those winter layers. Like a butterfly coming out of its cocoon. Just like that. Saks Fifth Avenue Land brands on Amazon. Just in time to trade in those heavy coats for something a little more temperature raising. From stunning Giambattista Valley pieces to fierce Etro prints, every single dress, pump clutch is ready to help you bloom into spring. Whether you need the perfect flowy dress for the spring weddings or some casual cool pieces for your Weekend brunches or a new statement bag to elevate your whole transition wardrobe. It is all right there. Saks on Amazon. From women's and men's fashion to accessories that'll make your whole outfit pop, Saks is serving up everything you need, powered by the easy, seamless and personalized Amazon platform. Now, y' all know I love putting some ish on, even when I'm in my businesswoman bag. This spring, I personally got my eye on some statement pieces that can instantly elevate even the most conservative of looks. Maybe it's a classy boucle skirt suit paired with some sickening Dolce and Gabbana sequin platform pumps. Or a breathtaking printed sequence silk sheath from Etro with some over the top Stella McCartney shades. Baby, I'm trying to give Springtime CEO glamour. And Saks on Amazon has got me covered. Get the Saks designer brands you love delivered just like that. New on Amazon.

[Victoria Monet]

At first, it feels really, really, really exciting because you're a part of something big. And I do want to do things that help other people, even as an artist, like, you know, charity work and things that help other people's dreams come true as well as mine. But also being a songwriter, you're proud. You know, my first number one, I was. I made this video to Bruno Myers song twerking. It was celebratory for everybody involved, so I was happy to do so. I don't think I ever had a bitter moment where I was like, yeah, yeah. You know, because it's a part. That's a part of my story as well. Being able to translate what someone wants to say into song form and communicate in that way. And sometimes in the studio, it feels a bit like a therapy session. And you want to be able to help anybody that you can really speak their truth.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

So it's a part of artistry as well to me. So I always was like, this is really cool.

[Keke Palmer]

It definitely is. Because not everybody that writes songs can do it the way that I think people like you do it. Or even like Taylor Parks, a very good friend of both of ours.

[Victoria Monet]

Incredible.

[Keke Palmer]

You know, she executive produced my most current album, Just Keke. And being in the studio with her, I've known her as a friend, but being in the studio with her and that level of her artistry was. Was absolutely what you just said. It's a special thing to see somebody be able to take someone's emotions and turn them into music.

[Victoria Monet]

Do you feel like because you guys had friendship before, that she was able to understand you on a different level. Like, I mean.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah. It reminds me of you and Ariana. Like, it's like one of those things where it's like there will be no deeper match.

[Victoria Monet]

Right.

[Keke Palmer]

Because this person has this skill and they know the inside. Yeah. They know the context and the inside scoop.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Of, you know what this means for me.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

What was that moment where you said to yourself. Because I'm sure there had to be a moment where you were like, I got to put the pen down for a second and really just only focus on me.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

What was that moment? And was it hard for the people that you were working with when they were like. When you were just like, I have to shut this door for now.

[Victoria Monet]

I think was. It was divine timing. And it was God for sure. Because when I stopped and paused was when. Thank U. Next with number one and then seven rings with number one back to back. I was like, I think. I think now I could take a little pause. But the money was coming in. I knew it was eventually going to hit the account. So I was like, I think I can do this. And take just a month to just think about what Victoria as an artist wants to do. But also perfect timing because she had already. She was releasing her album and she wasn't going to be in cycle yet. So it was just like that perfect window of time that just to make it happen.

[Keke Palmer]

Now when you did on My Mama, like, did you write that right after you pooped Hazel out? What was the timing of. Were you in the damn labor room? Like, I put that on my table.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah. Yeah. Well, you know, I was working while I was in labor. Cause I was about to release a single called F U C K. So I was in labor. It was a two day experience. So I was just on the machines, just texting my team on the group chats. Just working girl.

[Keke Palmer]

Yes.

[Victoria Monet]

That's what we have to do.

[Keke Palmer]

That's it.

[Victoria Monet]

Multitask always. But all my mama came after a few sessions of. I went back into the studio about six weeks after having Hazel.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

But I was still breastfeeding and healing and all of the things. So she was in the studio with me a lot and with headphones and like I had to take breaks and like try to feed her. And then my. So my brain was really in two places. So a lot of the songs that I wrote when I first got in the studio, I was like, I don't like my voice sounds different. It's a bit deeper. Like just feeling those emotions. And my hormones were just Obviously, completely out of balance.

[Keke Palmer]

Mine too.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

I mean, yeah, I guess that's what happened. But you just so. It feels so weird because, like, damn, I was really hard as hell on myself. Like, you. You think back to the things you were saying to you, and you realize, like, oh, it wasn't actually me. That was post.

[Victoria Monet]

That wasn't me. Yeah, I was a different person. So I did need something. A song that spoke to my future self and gave myself an affirmation. Like, I do look. I do look good. Like, I need to hear that myself. And just projecting that into the future so that when other moms hear it, they can sing it. And it's just an affirmation for everybod. And it didn't come easy, but it came. And all it took was to show up. You just gotta show up and keep being yourself and doing it.

[Keke Palmer]

Now, did you know when you heard it this is a hit?

[Victoria Monet]

I didn't quite know.

[Keke Palmer]

Cause you made so many hits. I mean, like, so it's like, you. You know, maybe you. Maybe there's a feeling that hitmakers feel where they're like, I know this.

[Victoria Monet]

I knew. I loved the song. I didn't know that it would. It was my one. You know, you just kind of guess. And I don't think a and ring is my job. I just. My job is to just put up the shots and then let the scoreboard tell me who won. But, like, I really, really am glad that that was the song that went. Because it was about motherhood, and that was a journey that I was on. So it just was the perfect God again. Like, I did not expect a song about my mama to be the biggest thing. So it was.

[Keke Palmer]

And I gotta talk about the visual because it was such a huge cultural moment. Like, I think it was, like, obviously the nostalgia, but then also, like, the current twist that you put on it. The look and the feel of the video. I think the choreography was obviously by Sean Bankhead, who is exceptional. I mean, what went into that video? Like, did you immediately have that idea?

[Victoria Monet]

Like, I did know that I wanted it to feel retro because I really. I enjoyed the 2000s so much.

[Keke Palmer]

Girl millennials.

[Victoria Monet]

Before social media. Yeah. Before all the things. The pagers, the Jabot jeans. I didn't have no pager, but, like, I know. You know, you know, the older generation. I wasn't that old.

[Keke Palmer]

My older cousin.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I watched them. Right, right. Flip phones. And so I also love themes and costume parties and stuff. So I was like, wouldn't it just be fun to bring all that stuff, the baby fat back and just the certain memories and nostalgia that you would see stylistically, but then with current dance moves. So I just wanted that vision to come to life. We did a lot of digging and Pinterest boarding to go back. And it's fun. It was so fun to do.

[Keke Palmer]

It looked like you guys were having a lot of fun. And then seeing Hazel come out there, I mean, oh, my gosh. How do you feel like, I mean, you said a little bit about it. How did becoming a mother impact your artistry and the way you moved in the industry?

[Victoria Monet]

I think one thing motherhood definitely taught me is time management. I used to be in that studio for hours and hours and hours. 3:00am, like, no limit. But I think the 10,000 hours that I put in before taught me that I have to do the same great work within two hours as I would have done in 10 hours now, just to make sure that I can be multiple places during the day. So it really taught me different time management and communication. Also. I feel like when I hear moms talk about having their children and sometimes the story attached to it is, I gave up everything to do to raise.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

The baby, and then it becomes resentment when they're older. Yeah. And I never wanted that to be on Hazel or be that to be her story. So I'm like, I have to raise this amazing child and be uber present, but also make sure that I never abandon myself and my dreams and keep this going thing going. So the duality was super important. So she doesn't feel that weight when she's older. If I'm doing an interview, I'm like, yeah, I just gave up my dreams. And I'm saying, yeah, we don't want that either.

[Keke Palmer]

And did you. Was there any pre roll planning? Like, did you know to yourself, like, I'm about to have Hazel this year, or was it kind of like, oh, shit, I'm pregnant and I'm going to figure this. So is this that you. Yeah, it kind of came upon you and you were like, yo, that pandemic.

[Victoria Monet]

And the tequila got me got.

[Keke Palmer]

Don't let it be a fine man. Which, all due respect.

[Victoria Monet]

Well, well, well.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah, that's how it happens.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah. Literally. And obviously you guys co parent now. And it feels. I love to see that. Even the way that you came to the Internet about it, it seemed all very, like, well thought out. I mean, it's never easy, I would imagine, separating from someone that you don't necessarily think you're gonna separate from, but Ideal. It's not ideal, but you seem to have been handling it well.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah. I feel like I'm super blessed to have a partner who understands that also that Hazel will eventually be able to see things and he was able to, you know, compose himself and so was I. Any of the messy parts happen face to face.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

And we're able to now easily co parent. He's super communicative. He has a great head on his shoulders. His mom did a wonderful job with him. Yeah. So I feel blessed to have that. That and a partnership.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah. We did see you connecting with Stormzy.

[Victoria Monet]

Where is the tea?

[Keke Palmer]

Had to pop that out.

[Victoria Monet]

Anybody got water?

[Keke Palmer]

Anything? And I was hanging out with him at the Met gala and I said, you know my girl, Victor.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Say yeah, you know my girl. You know, he's like, yeah, you know, she's amazing, you know, so cute.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah. He's a really special guy. I have so much respect for him and I got to learn more about him by dating him. We'll have to talk.

[Keke Palmer]

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[Victoria Monet]

Yeah, it was my first. I felt deeply, so deeply for him. And we. We didn't even get together yet. Like, the Internet is a no. But the first time that you saw us in that picture, if you've seen that viral picture, that's the first time of us really hanging out hard, like in his city. So I was like, oh, my God, it's everywhere before we're even starting, so. And that can be a lot to navigate. Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

You know, especially, like, you know, I've never really dated anybody in the press. I'm not sure how much of dating people in the industry you've done, but it's so crazy how. Yeah, we're too in two celebrities get together, it becomes such a thing. You know, I'm sure that was difficult, you know, or weird.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah. Because we would want. We would have wanted to announce on our own time when everything was official and, you know, roll out the red carpet for everybody to see it. When it's developed at the Perfect state. But that was just the beginning. So we were like, oh, my God. The rest of the. But we had a blast together. We had such great time. I think there's mutual respect there and support and know. Bad blood, always love.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah. I mean, he definitely had nothing but great things to say about you.

[Victoria Monet]

And I feel the same.

[Keke Palmer]

You've also spoken about being bisexual. I don't know if you would call yourself bisexual or fluid, but you've. You've spoken about that as well, which I think now we're in a different time. People are more open to talk about the dualities of who they are. But what made you feel like that was something you wanted to share? Because people don't have to share, you know?

[Victoria Monet]

You know, I was conflicted a lot of the time, a lot of my life about it, because growing up in church, it's restricted.

[Keke Palmer]

And I get it.

[Victoria Monet]

You can't. Yeah. You can't talk about that, and we don't do that. And it's like. Like something wrong with you.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

But coming to la, I feel like I found a great community of people who are supportive and. And have those same characteristics. So I was like. Okay. Felt more empowered to do so. And also to tell my truth, I felt like a weight was lifted. And my. My aura changed as soon as I was able to tell my truth. And I wanted to keep that in even my artistry, making sure that the pronouns that I'm using are, if I'm gonna talk about a woman, it's she. I don't have to be like he if the song's about a female. So I think it just was. It kind of just came out.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

I couldn't hold it any longer. And I think that's just a part of being authentic and true to ourselves.

[Keke Palmer]

I think as a young woman and as a black woman, and like you said, as a faithful woman, all these things sit on top of us, and they sometimes stop us from bringing the nuance that we're supposed to bring to those spaces. So I love that, you know, whatever you did, just you sharing it, that you felt. Because I do think it shows people that you can be all those things. You can be a Christian, you can be black, you can be a woman, you could be this, you could be that and that, you know, and it's not a big deal.

[Victoria Monet]

It's amazing and it's okay to share.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah. What made you want to write everywhere you are? Because it's a book about separation anxiety, which is huge for any working mom and even a stay at home, Mom. When your baby go to school, it can be tough. So how did you come to wanting to write this book about that?

[Victoria Monet]

I think at first, when I started working again after having Hazel, I was experiencing a lot of mom guilt being away and, like, you know, trying to balance your love for someone and your love for something.

[Keke Palmer]

Yes.

[Victoria Monet]

And your love for yourself and what you want to do.

[Keke Palmer]

Girl, that is so huge. The. I have a passion that I love.

[Victoria Monet]

Yes.

[Keke Palmer]

I have a baby that I love. And I have me that I love.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

How do I split that time? It's tough.

[Victoria Monet]

It's really, really tough. But I have to say, you, my friend, are killing it. You're doing amazing, amazing, amazing. It's so amazing to see you balancing. It's like you're in a hat store. Like, wow. Wow.

[Keke Palmer]

Thank you so much. I feel like we're all giving each other energy. Yeah. You know what I mean?

[Victoria Monet]

Like, oh, you can do it.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah. Yeah. We're all being like, hey, girl. And it's like you're feeling that vibe. Because when I'm seeing you do. And I'm feeling. Girl, for me, what did it with you was when I seen the ass, I said, kiki, it's time to go. Because if Victoria has abs, I need to have abs, too.

[Victoria Monet]

And. And do. It helps.

[Keke Palmer]

So when you see somebody killing it.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Like, you kill it. So thank you. I received that because we need to see that in each other.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah. Motherhood is the best that I always say, girl, you ain't never lie together. Yes. So the book, I. I wanted her to have and other children to have something ingrained in them from young. To understand that presence doesn't always have to be physical. It's with love. It's energy and just kind of relieving some of that tension early on.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

Because sometimes and I love you and I miss you isn't enough. They need to read a book about it. They need to see about it. They need to see examples of people who are also having working parents, you know, leave the country. That's right. You know, a community of people who are experiencing that. And so the book, I feel like, brings people together and allows that message to be received.

[Keke Palmer]

I mean, as a musician, as a songwriter, language is such an important, important tool.

[Victoria Monet]

Yes.

[Keke Palmer]

And so putting language to things, I think, is so important. So the fact that a kid can now understand even what separation anxiety is or, like, what it means when mommy is away, or even the mom being able to have this kind of book to be able to explain that to the child is right. It's incredible. What was the process like? You're welcome.

[Victoria Monet]

Yes, the process. I wrote a couple versions of the book and Hazel was able to. To experience all of them. So she kind of, you know, I would judge it based on what, what lines she would remember and what she liked. And then. So she kind of like edit an editor.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

You know, and I had the perfect audience, you know, test audience and in my 2 year olds, you know, so it was great. Now when she reads the book, she doesn't read yet, but she knows what's on each page because we read it together so many times.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

And she's quoted the book now she said, uh, oh, I'll always be your moon, you'll always be my like. So she's really remembering it. So I know that that is going to travel with other families.

[Keke Palmer]

Well, the book has poetic tone. I'm wonder was you. Did you intentionally make. I mean, you did tell me you started in poetry, so maybe that's why. But like, did you mean to make it kind of musical?

[Victoria Monet]

No, I just. Maybe. Maybe it's just a writing style. Yeah. You know, this is my first book, so maybe I carried some of the songwriting into the book worlds. But it was super fun to do. I want to do so many more. I have the next concept already, so. Yes.

[Keke Palmer]

I can't wait. And I'm taking this home with me. If you didn't plan for. Because Leo needs that, I was going to steal it.

[Victoria Monet]

Honestly. I hope. Hope you really enjoyed.

[Keke Palmer]

So thank you for giving me the blessing.

[Victoria Monet]

Yes, yes, I'm honored.

[Keke Palmer]

Also, I like this thing, what you do in the book where the metaphor of you and Hazel are. Is the moon and the star characters, they symbolize you too. What, what's the, what's the metaphor behind that?

[Victoria Monet]

Well, when I look out in the night sky, as a stargazer myself who likes to just see the sunsets and just see the sky, sometimes when you look out in the sky, you don't see the moon from where you're standing. But you know, logically, as an adult, that it is there. And so I wanted her to have that metaphor, something that she could see. She can go outside, like, okay, I'm aware that the moon isn't there, but I see some stars. So that's me and my mom somewhere in the world in the universe doing her thing. But stars and moon go together. There is no universe where there is no star and no moon. So it's, you know, it's a great symbolism. I feel Like, a kid can under really understand that visual.

[Keke Palmer]

Oh, my God. You know, you give me such a feeling of, like, I can't say it with words, but this is how I feel. That's the kind of vibe that you have. And it's so sweet hearing you talk about Hazel and I see you with Hazel online and stuff like that. But just, you know, talking about this book and hearing about it now, it just. It's such a sweet thing. I can feel that special vibe.

[Victoria Monet]

Thank you. We love each other. We love each other so much, and we are trying to hang out with y' all. So whenever you're not booked and busy.

[Keke Palmer]

Yes.

[Victoria Monet]

Come over swim.

[Keke Palmer]

Hansel is a Grammy winner nominee. You know what I mean? Like, so. I mean, I need Leo to get on her level. So he. Absolutely. And he is available to date.

[Victoria Monet]

Okay.

[Keke Palmer]

I know she's an older woman, but, you know, he's looking for people that have made it in.

[Victoria Monet]

Yes. Yes. Yeah. This our girl.

[Keke Palmer]

How was that journey of, like, going through that Grammy process? I mean, first of all, you've won. Congratulations.

[Victoria Monet]

Thank you.

[Keke Palmer]

And then having her be a part of that.

[Victoria Monet]

Oh, it meant the most.

[Keke Palmer]

That's the coolest thing ever.

[Victoria Monet]

It. Because the thing is when, candidly, when you get pregnant in the music industry, I don't know how it is, you know, today, but when I got pregnant, it was a thing. It was like, are you sure that you're at the beginning of this precipice of your career? Are you sure? Like, it's. Why? What's the rush? And you can't do both. And now we're seeing women on. On the stage. Pregnant music video. Yeah, actually. Actually, all of my success, my biggest success came after my biggest blessing, Hazel. So, like, take that clock that tee.

[Keke Palmer]

So, yeah, she's the youngest Grammy nominee ever. She's co narrating a book. I mean, she's busy. She's busy. What would you want her to take from you? From seeing you do what you're doing and for also you putting her a part of this? Like, what do you. Does she talk to you about what she thinks or knows?

[Victoria Monet]

Oh, I need to show you this video because the other day I recorded her, she said, one day, when I grow up and I'm older, I'm gonna be a better singer than you, and we can both be better. And I was like, well, what else do you wann. And I want to be an amazing artist and a songwriter. I'm like, oh, so you really. You know exactly what you want to do. But the One thing I want her to take is really the perseverance and patience. And why didn't. That was one thing. Perseverance, patience, and all of it. All of it. And, like, happiness. Whatever she decides to do, make sure that she's happy. Because there's too many scenarios where people are going to jobs that they don't like. And I feel like if the barista at Starbucks actually wanted to be there, they'd be much nicer. You know what I'm saying? So, like, do the things.

[Keke Palmer]

There ain't nothing wrong with being a barista.

[Victoria Monet]

There's nothing wrong with it. But if you love making coffee, make the. Make the best coffee and make it your. Your job. Make your passion your job, and, like, make do what makes you happy. So that's what I want her to have.

[Keke Palmer]

Speaking to that sweet spirit that I'm hearing with Hazel, but also I'm seeing and feeling with you. How did you stay that way, Victoria? Because I think a lot of people don't understand how hard it is in our industry. And you're talking about being in the studio late, late nights. I know what go down in the studio late, late nights, how hard it is. You're sometimes the only girl, and people make sure you know that. You know what I mean? And it's. It's a lot of work, you know? I mean, you've been doing this for a minute. How. How did you keep your spirit so pure?

[Victoria Monet]

I think it's God.

[Keke Palmer]

Yeah.

[Victoria Monet]

I think it's really God because there's so many dark holes, black holes that you can go into in this music industry. And sometimes you get a little tempted. You're like, well, they're making it by doing these things. Maybe that's what I need to do. But just remain you and remain centered with God and keep your family close. Also, I realize that the. The most humble and successful people who are sane have their parents.

[Keke Palmer]

That's right.

[Victoria Monet]

Or a relative or somebody from their childhood around.

[Keke Palmer]

That's right.

[Victoria Monet]

Still. So don't lose your day ones. I think that's a big part of it, too, because they can remind you. Like, girl, I knew you when you. You couldn't even afford a pedicure, so don't play with me.

[Keke Palmer]

They knew you.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Pedicure.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Damn, bitch. No. So what were you thinking when you heard. And the Grammy goes, too?

[Victoria Monet]

Oh, my God. The. I've never felt butterflies like that before. I couldn't. I mean, I could believe it because it's everything that I. I wrote down and wanted to manifest but also, like, when it actually happens to you, there's just a. It's a crazy feeling. So I. Walking up those stairs on the way, I'm like, just thinking about everything, and I'm almost hyperventilating. Like, oh, my God. It really. Like, you can't believe it. So. It was amazing. It was amazing. I wanted to bring my entire. Everybody who ever helped me on that stage. I'm like, you, you, you know, everybody come up and get your flowers too, because I did not do this alone.

[Keke Palmer]

Oh, my gosh.

[Victoria Monet]

I didn't do it alone.

[Keke Palmer]

So I loved you that. Because it's so true. It takes a village. It takes a team.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

15 years you've been grinding.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

I mean, that's a lot.

[Victoria Monet]

And the music is seriously me.

[Keke Palmer]

I mean, I'm right there with you.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

It's like. And things keep happening. I'm curious for you if, like, when you're checking off these things from your manifestation list, does it feel the way you thought it would? Like when you, you know, said to yourself, I'm gonna win a Grammy one day, like, how did it. Did you. You feel like that new person? Or was it kind of like, oh, I was already her?

[Victoria Monet]

That's a great question. I feel like maybe it's a little bit of both. Like, it's a person that I've always been, but now people recognize me as that person. They see me as that person. So it just definitely changes the way people speak and. And approach. Like, it changes everything. It's like a verified sticker, you know what I'm saying? Okay. Like, I've always had this, the same album that it was yesterday, but now it's a Grammy Award winning album today. So it does change a lot. So you. But it stay in constant gratitude. Because I sometimes forget how many things I had. Let me slow down. I wrote. I always write out my goals, and when I'm updating the goals, I'm deleting the old goals that I've accomplished and replacing them with new ones. So you. So it's so nice to see what has actually transpired, because sometimes it's in the background things that you wanted to happen, and they actually happen, but you forget that you even wish for it. Five years ago, you're like, oh, my God, it's here. So it is nice to pause and have people around you that are willing to celebrate those little wins with you. Like, girl, do you realize what just happened today? Like, because I even sitting here today, I'm a fan of yours. So, like, talk I'm like, okay, this is what happened today, and this is what I got to do. Lucky me. You know, just pausing and being grateful for these.

[Keke Palmer]

I feel the same way. I remember just, you know, when we. When I was doing Enemies video shoot and you guys came and hung out, and I remember just being us. That's one of, like, my memories of me and you is like, on the Enemy set.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Victormini.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

You're like, yeah, you know what? I just remember. And you were always with that wavy hair back then. You always.

[Victoria Monet]

Yes. Wide away.

[Keke Palmer]

Yes. Now you've compared yourself to a Jaguar.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

Which is quiet, focused, and striking at the right moment. What was your pounce moment? I'm sure you've had so many.

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah.

[Keke Palmer]

But if you could think of your most recent what's. Or. Or that's happened in. In, you know, in all this most recent success. What was that pounce moment for you?

[Victoria Monet]

I think one of my biggest pounce moments was that moment going into the studio and just carving out the time for myself. It's like, like, okay, here's my opportunity to strike. I've got all, you know, my eyes are locked in on this. This prize. Let's go get it. So it's really been amazing to have a team that supports that vision. And because technically, what a publisher would say after a big moment of songwriting like that is like, guess what? Now everyone wants you to write their song, so you need to do more songwriting. But I did the opposite, and it got me somewhere that I've always dreamed of also. So just really listening to your gut feelings, having a great team that's able to support that vision. And again, staying in constant gratitude. I start my day with a gratitude journal. I start my day reading this book called 40 Days to a Joy Filled Life. It's talking about God. It's talking about what manifests in your life when you are. When you're grateful for what you already have. You can find joy in the littlest things, you know, so just. We're all wanting to have more. We're all wanting to have it fast. Instacart, Instagram, like now, now, now. But the patience and being grateful for what you already have, because that's what you wanted years ago. You are where you used to want to be.

[Keke Palmer]

Gratitude and patience, those are such great keys to happiness and never putting your timing up to somebody else because you don't know where they start, and you sure as hell don't know where they. They going.

[Victoria Monet]

Right.

[Keke Palmer]

You know, so focusing on you in this era where Everything is always built off comparisons. You know, it's so. It's so important.

[Victoria Monet]

It's tough.

[Keke Palmer]

You did work with Usher, and he's everything. What was it like working with him?

[Victoria Monet]

It was amazing. Usher is such a great mentor. He always has tasteful advice, but it's not intrusive. You know, it's not like, critical or derogatory. He's just gonna let you know.

[Keke Palmer]

It's very wise, sage energy, which I guess is what you really do want from an icon.

[Victoria Monet]

Absolutely.

[Keke Palmer]

Especially if they gonna give you a time of their day. Yeah, like, give me something. For sure. Absolutely. And I felt the same way, you know, having time whenever I've had a conversation with him or, you know, something's going on in the zeitgeist. And he'll just speak to it real subtly.

[Victoria Monet]

Right. With the most magnificent words. I'm like, wow, Jesus.

[Keke Palmer]

And then you'd be like, yeah. You really are Usher, huh?

[Victoria Monet]

Yeah. You know that I got.

[Keke Palmer]

You really are who we've known you to be.

[Victoria Monet]

Yes. Honestly, that's how I feel about you. Like, when I see you off camera, it's the same Kiki I see on camera. It ain't no like, cut. And she. You're just completely different, but you're such a joy to be around. You make people laugh. It's great. And you're so beautiful. I just have so many nice things to say, and I just want to hang out.

[Keke Palmer]

Me too. And we gotta get the babies together.

[Victoria Monet]

I would love.

[Keke Palmer]

So we're doing it. And I don't think you live far from me. I'm not gonna tell everybody where you live, but, you know, we share the same teams. Okay. So I know kind of where you're at, and so we're gonna. We're gonna link up.

[Victoria Monet]

Even if I wasn't close, I'd drive to you. So just let me know when you. When is she fleeing?

[Keke Palmer]

They're gonna ship us. I hope you know the baby's Kiki promote.

[Victoria Monet]

They're ship us. Of course. Anybody that I feel like we're standing next to, definitely dating.

[Keke Palmer]

I love you Down, Victoria. And I'm so glad that you came on. And obviously everywhere you are. I cannot wait to read this to my son. And everybody's got to check this book out. Congratulations on another feat.

[Victoria Monet]

Thank you. I love you.

[Keke Palmer]

Thank you so much. Love you. Oh, this is pretty good.