Behind the Music: An Inside Look at Breaking Serenity with Jackie Agramonte

It was a pleasure to connect with the talented singer and pole dancer, Jackie Agramonte from Breaking Serenity. Our conversation encompassed her musical journey, experiences in pole dancing, and personal hobbies. I am confident that you will find great enjoyment in delving into all aspects of our discussion.

AA: Please share your background with us. I'd love to learn about where you're from, your upbringing, and how your cultural heritage has influenced who you are today. Also, what significant life experiences have played a crucial role in shaping your identity?

JA: My name is Jacqueline Agramonte, but everyone calls me Jackie. I am 32 years old and from Lake Elsinore, California. I have lived in Southern California my entire life, but my parents are actually immigrants. My father came to the United States from Cuba at the age of 16, while my mother was born and raised in Tijuana, Mexico, and came to the U.S. when she married my father at 25.

JA: Believe it or not, Spanish was my first language, and I learned English in preschool, which I think is pretty cool! As a child, my two younger brothers and I would spend a few weeks at a time in Tijuana during summer breaks, and we used to visit frequently throughout the rest of the year.

JA: It's difficult to pinpoint and summarize which life experiences shaped me, as I believe every moment has played a role in molding me into the person I am today. Growing up in a strict religious and conservative household significantly influenced my rebellion against outdated views and traditions that serve only to control and oppress self-expression, despite their negative impact on mental health. Such rigid beliefs have the potential to create distance between family members and people in general.

JA: That said, my diverse cultural background and experiences with religion have made me very accepting and curious about different cultures and ideologies. I value inclusivity and self-expression, and for me, it is crucial to spread love and acceptance, regardless of the culture, beliefs, values, or traditions an individual may have. I believe that everyone on this Earth deserves to be seen and understood. The one guideline I try to follow as best as I can is to do no harm to living beings, including myself.

JA: As far as identities go, I believe the less you identify with anything, the more freedom you have to be yourself!

JA: The most common ego identifications have to do with possessions, the work you do, social status and recognition, knowledge and education, physical appearance, special abilities, relationships, personal and family history, belief systems, and often also political, nationalistic, racial, religious, and other collective identifications. None of these is you." -Eckhart Tolle

AA: I am genuinely fascinated by the story behind your musical journey. I would love to know what specific moment or experience ignited your passion for music and how you decided to pursue it. What were your challenges, and what steps did you take to turn your passion into a successful musical journey?

JA: I've always felt a deep connection with music, even from a young age. I vividly remember being around 9 years old, laying on the floor with my new portable Walkman, crying to Celine Dion and Backstreet Boys. Honestly, I have no idea what I was crying about since I had a great childhood, but the music clearly hit me hard! I used to fill my diary with lyrics and would daydream about being the frontwoman of a rock band.

JA: One of the most defining moments for me was when I first heard harsh vocals. I had a crush on this guy in middle school, and I somehow got my hands on a CD from his binder. The first thing I heard was, “she wore crushed velvet, jet black, and to the floor,” followed by intense screaming —and my life was never the same. I was instantly obsessed but had to keep it a secret since, according to my parents, it was “devil music.” Honestly, the taboo only made me love it more.

JA: On the flip side, my mom used to play piano and sing, and I loved listening to her. Eventually, my parents put me in guitar, piano, and voice lessons, which I enjoyed, but I was too impatient to stick with it at that age. I mostly focused on dance throughout my life but would dabble in music here and there, like joining choir in middle school and taking private lessons again in high school. Later on, I joined a women’s choir, which was a lot of fun, but mostly, I just obsessively went to shows and karaoke bars to get my fix.

JA: I also got to be a vocal guinea pig for my brother when he was studying music production, which gave me a lot of insight into the recording process. But the real turning point was when my boyfriend, Anthony Ornelas from Where It Lies, asked me to sing clean vocals for a Killswitch Engage cover he was working on. After that, people started asking if I was in a band.

JA: Eventually, Niko Garcia asked Anthony if I’d be interested in featuring on the new Breaking Serenity album alongside Alexia from Eyes Set to Kill. When Anthony told me, I was like, “You’re joking, right?” I couldn’t believe it was a real offer. But from there, everything just snowballed!

AA: Is there a particular artist whose music and personal journey have profoundly influenced your decision to pursue your passion for music? Did their story inspire you to take the leap and form your band? Please share how their experiences and artistry have shaped your musical path.

JA: There are many strong women in music that I look up to, but I think Hayley Williams from Paramore has been my biggest influence. I admire her stage presence, uniqueness, vulnerability, and undeniable vocal poweress. I think I have listened to so much Paramore that I have inadverdently picked up a lot of Hayley’s style, or so I’ve been told. However, I was never brave enough to try and form my own band at such a young age she did! I wish I had taken a page out of her book much sooner!

AA: I'm interested in learning about the origins of your band, Breaking Serenity. How did the members first connect and decide to form the group? What's the story behind the band's name, and why was it chosen? Additionally, I'm eager to hear about your journey and the experiences you've had since the band was established.

JA: Honestly, Niko Garcia is probably the best person to explain the origins of Breaking Serenity since this was his project from the start. I believe he started it about a decade ago, and he teamed up with Sinister Styles after they met while working a warehouse job. Those two have been partners in crime ever since.

JA: As for Breaking Serenity, we’re an alternative metal band known for emotionally charged storytelling and a unique sound. The name and concept are based around Serenity, a young girl who creates an elaborate imaginary world to cope with the struggles of the 2020 pandemic and her dysfunctional family. The band explores themes of escapism, identity, and creativity, inviting listeners into Serenity's paracosm—a detailed imaginary world that helps them connect with their own fantasies and emotions.

JA: From what I understand, they were sitting on this music for a while and ended up recording most of the album during the pandemic. At that time, they had a different vocalist, but they reached out to me to feature on one of the tracks. Then, in December 2023, I got a call asking if I’d be down to collaborate live on 1-2 songs for a show in March 2024. I agreed, as long as the songs were in my range. But I actually tried backing out a few times because the songs felt too high for me, and my vocals were rusty. Niko kept encouraging me, saying, “No pressure.” Those words worked like magic; he knew exactly what he was doing.

JA: Eventually, he invited me to a band practice in January just to feel things out. After that first practice, they asked if I wanted to join the band, and I said yes. I’m not entirely sure what happened with the previous members who were on the album, but it seemed like they weren’t available for live shows, so I stepped in. Niko actually booked the first “Self Inflicted Fest” without a full band lineup, so we practiced like crazy. What started as a couple of songs turned into me doing the whole set and becoming the new clean vocalist and frontwoman. It all happened so fast! Honestly, every new member of Breaking Serenity has a story about how Niko “tricked” them into joining, which I think is hilarious. He’s truly the man with the plan!

JA: Since joining, I’ve gotten to do things I never imagined. We re-recorded and released “Hypocrite” with my vocals, and it’s been played on the radio multiple times. We’re also in the process of re-recording the other songs with my vocals and releasing them gradually. Performing live with a metal band for the first time was an absolute dream come true.

JA: We’ve collaborated with so many incredible artists, which has really fostered a sense of community. We’ve even opened for national acts like Powerman 5000 and Trapt.

JA: We just released a music video for the remastered version of “Ain’t Got No Time,” which features some of my best friends and pole mates. It’s been so amazing to blend my passion for pole dancing with my love for metal. Two of my polemates even joined us on stage to perform choreography to “Ain’t Got No Time” during a live set, which was such a unique experience. Honestly, it’s all been a blur, but those are some of the biggest highlights for me so far!

Video By Breaking Serenity

AA: Could you describe the experience of being a musician, particularly in the role of the frontwoman for your band? What challenges and rewards do you face in this position, and how do they shape your artistic journey?

JA: Being a frontwoman is definitely an interesting experience. I chose this role mainly because I love singing, but it also comes with the added responsibility of talking on stage. Given how our band operates—with so many collaborators during live performances—I end up making a lot of introductions between songs. Believe it or not, that’s actually the part that makes me the most nervous before a show. I’m not exactly the most eloquent public speaker, and I tend to stumble over my words even on a good day. I’m dreading the day there’s a technical issue, and I’ll have to ad-lib to fill time—so apologies in advance to my bandmates for that!

JA: Another challenge of being a frontwoman in metal is experiencing the remnants of the pervasive misogyny that still exists in society at large. It can be tough being a woman in a male-dominated space and hearing comments that objectify or belittle females. Thankfully, I've been lucky to face very little of this within my current social and professional circles, especially compared to what I used to experience when I was younger. But that kind of language still pops up now and then, and it's never a pleasant experience.

JA: That said, being a frontwoman constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone, which forces me to grow. It’s been incredibly rewarding to have a renewed sense of purpose with music and to work hard as a band to bring a project to life. I really value the teamwork that goes into what we do, and nothing beats the feeling of getting positive feedback after weeks or even months of effort. I hope to keep learning and growing as an artist through my experiences with Breaking Serenity.

AA:  During my recent exploration of the impressive collection of albums you’ve released over the years, I pondered which album holds a special place in your heart as your favorite to work on. Was there a particular project that pushed your creative boundaries or brought you immense joy during the process? Additionally, I’m eager to dive deeper into your creative process. What are the key sources of inspiration that fuel your lyrics? Are there specific experiences, emotions, or other artists that play a significant role in shaping your ideas? I would love to learn more about how you cultivate your songwriting.

JA: Breaking Serenity currently has one album out, recorded with the original vocalist. I actually had very little involvement in the songwriting for it—“On My Own” is the only track I co-wrote, and I originally featured on it before officially joining the band. Songwriting is still pretty new to me; my main experience was from writing lyrics in my diary as a kid and taking creative writing and poetry classes in college, which, to be honest, ended up helping more than I expected. Collaborating for “On My Own” last summer was such a fun way to dip my toes into songwriting! I hope I get more opportunities coming up to do more of that.

AA:  How do you manage the emotional and financial fluctuations of being a musician, including the highs of performing and creating music and the lows of uncertainty and financial instability?

JA: We live in an era where pursuing a career in music is rarely financially viable. Currently, I have a flexible job bartending at a live music venue, which allows me to focus on my master’s program, my band, and pole dancing. I've noticed that most people I know who are in bands also hold full time jobs outside of their musical endeavors.

JA: Regarding emotional highs and lows, it can be quite challenging. Being in a band requires a lot of time and effort; you can spend weeks or even months preparing for a show. The performance itself is exhilarating, but once it's over, I often find it difficult to come down from that high. I typically try to keep a busy to-do list or surround myself with others the day after a performance to help cope with that low feeling.

AA:  I'm interested in learning about four favorite songs you've enjoyed working on and performing. Could you share what makes these songs stand out for you? It would be great to hear about your connections with them, and the messages or themes they convey that resonate with you. Additionally, I'd love to know how these songs have impacted your artistic journey or influenced your audience.

JA: My all-time favorite Breaking Serenity song to perform is “Hypocrite.” It was the first one I learned and the one I’ve practiced the most, so it holds a special place in my heart and brings me back to those early days with the band. The lyrics are aggressive and cathartic, and I think everyone can relate to dealing with hypocrites who get under our skin. Singing it is a great outlet for pent-up anger, especially since I’d never actually say those words to someone in real life! Performing it feels almost like stepping into a character.

JA: Most Breaking Serenity songs have challenging sections just outside my natural range, so they really push me to keep up with my vocal exercises and practice the set regularly between band practices.

AA: For individuals looking to establish themselves as musicians, what advice or tips can you provide to help them navigate the music scene and build a successful career?"If you could share the stage with any artist from any genre, who would you collaborate with and why?

JA: We'll let me preface this by saying that though I wish music could be my full-time job, I am not there just yet! But it is obviously important to work on your skills and put yourself out there on social media platforms, however, networking is equally important. Going to as many local shows as possible and making genuine connections with other musicians will open up many opportunities.

JA: If I could share the stage with any artist, it would be Hayley Williams from Paramore hands down. It’s embarrassing how many dreams I have had where she calls me up on stage!

AA: Have you had the opportunity to collaborate with other artists, or have you been involved in any musical projects outside the band? I’d love to hear about any experiences you've had working with different musicians or exploring various styles and genres beyond your regular band activities.

JA: Breaking Serenity is all about collaborations! Over the past year, I've had the chance to share the stage with so many incredible artists. Before that, my only experience was in choir, which is a completely different vibe but still a lot of fun in its own way.

JA: Earlier, I mentioned the Killswitch Engage cover I did with my boyfriend, which was an absolute blast. We definitely plan to create more covers together in the future. And after four years of Where It Lies joking about having me join them on stage to sing their song “Woven Web,” it finally happened this past weekend, which was a lot of fun!

AA: I've observed that you also have a remarkable passion for pole dancing alongside your beautiful singing. It truly fascinates me! I'm eager to learn more about how you became interested in this captivating art form. Was there a specific experience or person who inspired you to dive into pole dancing? Additionally, I’d love to hear about the particular style of pole dancing that you enjoy practicing the most. Is it the athleticism and strength of pole sport, the sensuality of exotic dance, or perhaps something entirely different that captivates you?

JA: I'm so glad you asked this question! As I briefly mentioned, I was mainly a dancer throughout my younger years. I started with tap and ballet at age 4 and continued to build my dance repertoire over the next 14 years. Alongside ballet and tap, I explored jazz, lyrical, modern, character, and hip hop. I even spent a season with a modern dance company in Temecula while pursuing my undergraduate studies.

JA: After that, I took a break from dancing and focused on weightlifting for about 10 years. But in 2019, I became curious about pole fitness and decided to explore different active hobbies during the pandemic because I felt like something was missing. When things opened back up, I joined a pole class, but I'll admit, after my first session, I almost didn’t return—it was incredibly painful to grip the pole with my skin! But I was at a point in my life where I needed to prove to myself that I could stick with something, no matter how challenging or humbling it might be.

JA: Once I pushed through that initial discomfort, I quickly became hooked. While I was decent at the dance aspect, it took me a long time to get comfortable with the tricks. There’s definitely no room for ego in pole dancing. I found it to be the perfect blend of strength, athleticism, dance, and artistry.

JA: As you mentioned, pole dancing has many sides to it. For those who aren’t into the sensual aspect, there are classes that focus solely on pole tricks, emphasizing athleticism. Within pole, there are various styles, some more sensual than others. Personally, I love the challenge of combining dance with tricks, and the style that resonates with me most is "Russian Exotic." It blends the strength and mobility I’ve developed over time with the techniques I learned in ballet, plus a touch of sensual movement.

JA: I have to highlight the profound impact pole dancing has had on my relationship with my body. I’ve been on a long journey to recover from the eating disorders I struggled with in my early 20s, and I was still dealing with remnants of body dysmorphia until I started pole. Through pole dancing, I’ve learned to feel comfortable in my own skin and to celebrate my body’s strength. Watching recordings of myself performing challenging tricks in minimal clothing has given me a new appreciation for what my body can do rather than focusing on how it looks. For context, attempting pole tricks fully clothed is often unsafe or nearly impossible, depending on the move. Interestingly, in the pole world, wearing more clothing is actually a flex because of how challenging it makes the tricks!

JA: Also, you might notice that what you see in the mirror can look completely different in motion on video. I don’t know if that makes sense to those who haven’t faced similar struggles, but it has truly been a game-changer for me!

AA: What are some activities you enjoy doing in your free time?

JA: When I’m not at pole, band practice, or working on homework, I love spending time with my boyfriend and friends (if my social battery is charged!). I also enjoy going on runs with my dogs, doing mobility and weight training, or relaxing with cozy games on my Nintendo Switch. Crocheting and reading romantasy or thriller novels are also favorite ways to unwind. I also have a ton of plants, so I’m often doing plant chores, which I find meditative.

JA: I’m a huge nerd for all things health and wellness, from the science behind skincare to functional and naturopathic medicine, nutrition, and psychology—I’m always reading, researching, or listening to podcasts on these topics. But honestly, when I’m feeling burnt out, I often find myself doom-scrolling on TikTok instead of diving into these other hobbies!

AA: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonate with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

JA: Okay, I might be a little lame, but one of my all-time favorite movies is Freaky Friday with Lindsay Lohan. I remember watching it when I was young and just loving everything about it: the band, the romance, the family coming together! It really touched my heart because I wanted all of that. Plus, it’s a pretty funny movie!

JA: Another favorite of mine is The Greatest Showman. I think it’s such a moving story about acceptance and inclusivity. Barnum’s circus celebrates “oddities” and marginalized people, highlighting the beauty of embracing diversity and challenging norms. And of course, the performances are incredible!

JA: Then there’s Sweeney Todd, which is just a whole mood for me. I love the gloomy London setting, the dark storyline, and those intense musical numbers.

JA: Black Swan is another one of my all-time favorites. It’s such an intense psychological thriller, and as someone with a ballet background, I find a lot of the themes really relatable. It captures the perfectionism, discipline, and mental toll that can come with dance, but pushes them to this terrifying extreme. The movie dives into themes of obsession, identity, and sacrifice, and the way it blurs reality with hallucination just pulls me in every time.

JA: And then there’s Midsommar, which is an entirely different kind of unsettling. For me, it’s like a twisted piece of art—stunning but deeply uncomfortable to watch. I can’t get over the contrast of bright, idyllic imagery with such dark, disturbing themes. There’s something so haunting about that contrast, almost like a reminder that not everything is as it seems. It’s a slow-burn horror that stays with you long after it’s over, which I think makes it even more powerful.

JA: Lastly, I’m a huge fan of The Dirt. I’ve actually been on the hunt for another movie that captures that classic sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll as well as this one. I’ve always been fascinated by the wild stories from '80s bands. There’s something about the recklessness that appeals to the part of me that grew up in a super conservative household and felt so caged in.

AA: As for TV shows, which ones do you find yourself eagerly tuning in to? What about these shows captivates you—could it be the plot twists, character development, or the overall production quality?

JA: Here’s a non-exhaustive list of some of my favorite series! Sabrina, American Horror Story: Coven, The Haunting of Hill House, Lucifer, Mayfair Witches, The Fall of the House of Usher, Shameless, Gilmore Girls, Grey’s Anatomy, House, So You Think You Can Dance, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Love is Blind, and pretty much any true crime series.

JA: I’ll spare you the in-depth analysis on all of these, but it’s safe to say each show reflects a different side of my very eclectic personality. I love anything witchy or spooky, shows that bring some humor, a bit of trash TV, human psychology, stories about love and acceptance in families, medical dramas, the behind-the-scenes lives of dancers, and of course, the macabre. Honestly, this list looks a lot like my music library—all over the place!

AA: Regarding books, which ones are at the top of your list? What makes these books stand out to you? Is it the writing style, the themes, or the emotions they evoke?

JA: One of my all-time favorite books is The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle, a secular spiritual guide on the transformative power of living in the present. Though the concept may sound simple, Tolle’s insights are truly impactful. I also love Atomic Habits by James Clear and The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, both of which delve into how small, consistent habits shape our lives and offer practical advice on making lasting changes. Other non-fiction favorites include Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel, which explores intimacy and desire in long-term relationships; Come as You Are by Emily Nagoski, a science-based look at female sexuality and wellness; Does the Noise in My Head Bother You? by Steven Tyler, a rock-and-roll memoir with fascinating stories from Aerosmith’s frontman; and The Dorito Effect by Mark Schatzker, a deep dive into the science behind food flavor and cravings. I also enjoy anything by Brené Brown, whose work on vulnerability and courage is both inspiring and insightful.

JA: For fiction, I’m a fan of the Blood and Ash series by Jennifer L. Armentrout, an immersive fantasy romance; Verity and Layla by Colleen Hoover, both gripping thrillers with dark twists; Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn, a chilling psychological thriller; and The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, a suspenseful mystery. I also enjoy reading anything by Mary Kay Andrews for her cozy and heartfelt storytelling, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho for its philosophical journey of self-discovery, and Life of Pi by Yann Martel, an adventurous tale that explores spirituality and survival.

JA: I’ll admit I was also captivated by the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer and The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins when I was younger. There are so many more I could add, but these are the first that come to mind!

AA: Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?

JA: I absolutely love podcasts! One of my all-time favorites is Mind Pump, which covers all things health and fitness, with a strong focus on weightlifting and nutrition. They dive into new scientific research as well as personal experiences. The Huberman Lab podcast is another standout, as it explores neuroscience and how it applies to daily life and performance.

JA: Diary of a CEO offers deep conversations with leaders and thinkers on business and personal growth, while The Cabral Concept gives practical insights on natural health and wellness. For intriguing history tidbits, Cabinet of Curiosities shares unusual and fascinating short stories, and Lore brings dark historical legends and folklore to life.

JA: Dishing Up Nutrition focuses on practical advice for balanced eating, and How to Money is great for learning personal finance tips. I enjoy On Purpose with Jay Shetty for its inspirational talks on relationships and purpose, and Sex with Emily for open, educational discussions about relationships and intimacy.

JA: For broad-ranging knowledge, Stuff You Should Know explores fun, random topics, and TED Talks Daily, TED Health, and TED Talks Science and Medicine are excellent sources for science and wellness insights in short, digestible episodes. Lastly, The Jeff Nippard Podcast is fantastic for deep dives into the science behind fitness and muscle building.

JA: These are just a few of my go-to podcasts, and each brings something unique to my day!

AA: I'm interested in learning about your favorite bands or music artists that you're passionate about. Additionally, I'd love to hear all the details about your most memorable concert experience - the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you.

JA: Ok here we go, I’m just going to list some of my all-time favorite bands, artists, and albums knowing that I will be forgetting many. Paramore, Emarosa, Dance Gavin Dance, Dexcore, Slaves, The Home Team, Jinjer, Spiritbox, Avenged Sevenfold, Pierce the Veil, Killswitch Engage, Evanescence, AFI, Bad Omens, Red Handed Denial, Black Veil Brides, After the Burial, Bring Me The Horizon, Memphis Mayfire, Issues, Crosses, Conquer Divide, Florence and the Machine, Incubus, Born To Die album by Lana Del Rey, 24k Magic album by Bruno Mars, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge Album by My Chemical Romance, I Love You Album by the Neighbourhood, Highly Suspect, Hawthorne Heights, Alice In Chains, Of Mice and Men, Sleeping with Sirens, The Pretty Reckless, Thirty Seconds to Mars, We Came as Romans, The Valley album by White Chapel. Beyoncé.

JA: One time, my great friend Julia invited me to a Color Morale show at Soma in San Diego. I didn’t know the band too well, but I tagged along, and it was tons of fun. We were right up in the front row and everything. Then a band member suddenly asks, “Are you guys ready to see Jonny Craig in Slaves?!” I turned to Julia like, “Wait... he’s in the headlining band?!” Look, I know he has a terrible reputation, but damn, can he sing. I guess I stopped following him after he got kicked out of yet another band, or maybe after the MacBook debacle, so it took me by complete surprise—it ended up being such an amazing show!

JA: Oh, and I once saw Incubus at an amphitheater with my brother. We were really close to the front; it was a perfect summer night, the visuals were incredible, and Incubus always sounds great live. We were completely immersed in the set. Honestly, not much can top that experience.

JA: More recently, I cried tears of joy at a Jinjer show, also at Soma, with Anthony. I had been worried that my job’s involvement in live music and attending so many of Anthony’s shows might have dulled my love and enthusiasm for live concerts. This was before my involvement with Breaking Serenity, so I was so relieved to find out that I can still cry like a baby when I’m overcome with emotion at a live show.

AA: What does success look like to you?

JA: To me, success means living to the fullest and aligning with my morals and values. It means being at peace with my choices and lifestyle. And in a very practical way, it means supporting myself financially without constantly being burnt out.

AA: How do you define happiness in your own life?

JA: Happiness, for me, is the freedom to fully express myself and engage in activities that bring me joy. It's about making my own choices and, honestly, being well-rested—because I’m definitely not happy when I don’t get enough sleep!

AA:  Could you share some insights into your journey with mental health and how it has shaped your life?

JA: Mental health is one of my greatest passions, and I’m currently pursuing a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. My journey with mental health began in my late teens when I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid and leads to hypothyroidism. Undiagnosed for some time, it took a toll on both my body and mind—I experienced rapid weight gain, which led to eating disorders, hair and eyebrow loss, severe depression, constant exhaustion, and overwhelming anxiety.

JA: It wasn’t until my mother’s doctor in Tijuana diagnosed her and suggested she bring me in as well that I began my journey toward healing. Balancing my thyroid levels with medication helped, but I also relied on antidepressants, anti-anxiety meds, and therapy for years. With the support of some wonderful therapists, I was able to recover from my eating disorders, and I discovered that knowledge was an empowering tool for managing my mental health. Learning about nutrition and weightlifting not only helped me regain control over my anxiety and depression but allowed me to reach a healthy body composition.

JA: This experience ignited a passion for learning, especially in psychology. As I continued my research and therapy, I gradually came off all prescriptions except for my thyroid medication, which I’ll need for life. By 28, I had my health conditions largely under control, but I still struggled with overwhelm. Finally, at 29, I was diagnosed with ADHD, and even the lowest dose of medication was transformative. It gave me the focus I needed to balance my master’s program, pole, band, and relationships. I’ve never felt more stable or grateful.

JA: One day, I hope to manage without ADHD medication by building healthy routines and making new neural connections while on the meds. But for now, I recognize the support it gives me. My experiences have taught me that caring for your mental health can truly change the course of your life.

AA: Imagine you can step back in time and live in any historical period. Which era would you choose, and what draws you to it? Dive into the allure of the past and let your imagination wander!

JA: Oh man, I know this may not sound super fun, but I don't think I'd actually want to live in the past. The further back in time you go, the less autonomy women had and the less we understood about our own biology. I'm genuinely grateful to live in a time where we have modern medicine, and where I have the freedom to do whatever I want without needing a man’s permission.

JA: But if those issues weren’t a factor? Then I'd love to experience the 80s when hair metal was in its prime! Or maybe live in a castle with my dragon—or be a forest which surrounded by animal friends. I know that's more about setting than time period, but I'm way more into environment than the era itself!

AA: If you were allowed to explore a completely different career path, what would it be, and what motivates you to choose? Consider the aspects of this new profession that intrigue you, such as the skills you’d like to develop, the impact you wish to have, or the personal fulfillment you seek. What experiences or passions drive you toward this alternate career, and how do you envision it aligning with your values and aspirations?

JA: Right now, I’m studying to become a marriage and family therapist. Therapy has had such a huge impact on my life, and I truly believe everyone could benefit from seeing a therapist at some point. My hope is that one day I can be a catalyst for positive change in someone’s life—whether it’s for an individual, a couple, or a family.

JA: But here’s the thing: I’m also pursuing music and pole. If life takes me down the path to being a full-time therapist, I’d be extremely happy with that. But if I had the chance to build a career in music or dance, I’d jump on it in a heartbeat. With how unpredictable those fields can be, though, I’d still make sure to keep my license to practice therapy.

JA: At the end of the day, freedom of expression is one of my core values. If I could make a living doing something that allows me to be creative, I’d be all in. I honestly can’t stand the restrictive corporate rules—like banning tattoos and piercings or enforcing boring dress codes. To me, those things have zero impact on how well you do your job. And don’t even get me started on the stuffy language in work emails! If I never had to read “as per our last email” again, I’d be thrilled. A career that lets me skip all of that and just be myself? That’s the dream.

AA: What's your strategy for networking and forging connections in the vibrant world of the music industry?

JA: My strategy is pretty simple: just be genuine! I make an effort to attend shows, engage with people, and really get to know them. I follow them on social media and do my best to keep those connections alive over time. I honestly believe that’s all it takes!

AA: How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals during times of uncertainty or change? Ironically, my coping strategy for dealing with uncertainty is to focus on my goals.

JA: I try to control what I can and let go of what I can’t—though I’m still working on that part. Setting a goal and creating a plan, or developing a new habit to achieve it, is actually quite therapeutic for me. It helps break everything down into manageable steps, making things feel less overwhelming. Once I concentrate on the daily tasks, everything else tends to fall into place.

JA: It's important to note that motivation can fluctuate, so you can't depend solely on it to accomplish your goals. Instead, discipline is what will ultimately help you persevere. While it's essential to listen to your body and take breaks for your mental health, when necessary, generally speaking, discipline is what you can truly rely on.

AA: Share three individuals who have significantly influenced your life, positively or negatively, and explain why.

JA: This is a tough question because so many people have influenced my life, but I’d have to say my boyfriend, Anthony, has had one of the biggest impacts. I admire so many aspects of his personality that I’ve been trying to adopt myself. While I can be very Type A—planning and scheduling every detail—he’s more laid-back and flexible, which has taught me to go with the flow a bit more. Though this difference can sometimes cause tension, I’ve noticed I’m slowly becoming less rigid. I also deeply respect his humility; as I get older, I realize how an inflated ego can be a real barrier in connecting with others. Anthony’s lack of ego shows true self-worth and confidence, and that’s something I aspire to as well.

JA: He’s also inspired me to pursue my passions without needing to be “perfect.” I’ve seen him perform and treat any negative self-critique as a learning experience. He doesn’t let what others think hold him back, which has shown me how to value growth over perfection. For the longest time, I told myself I’d join a band or pursue dancing when I was “good enough,” but his encouragement pushed me to go for it sooner. His generosity, patience, ability to let things go, and unshakable drive are all qualities I’m trying to develop in myself. Honestly, I could go on forever about how much he’s made me a better person.

JA: My parents have been a major influence in my life, for better or for worse. They provided for me financially, even covering my undergrad education, which I recognize as a huge privilege. They also enrolled me in dance and music lessons from a young age, which shaped much of who I am today. I know they love me, and I’m grateful for that. Yet, despite their best efforts to be there for me emotionally within the framework of their religious and moral beliefs, I often felt like I couldn’t be fully accepted by them. Ironically, this experience sparked my passion for helping others feel loved and accepted—perhaps even motivating me to pursue a career as a therapist. If I can help even one person feel truly heard, validated, and understood, then the challenges of growing up as the “black sheep” in my family will have been worth it.

AA: What message would you share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

JA: Hate and violence are never the answer. Often, hate stems from ignorance and a lack of empathy. I believe that if we stay curious about one another—if we seek to understand different perspectives rather than casting judgment—we can choose to “agree to disagree” instead of letting division take root. A mentor recently told me, “Everything makes sense in context,” and I truly believe this. Understanding and empathizing with others doesn’t mean condoning harmful actions, but it does mean softening to each other’s humanity. By listening and trying to see where others are coming from, we can help build a future that’s far less toxic and much more compassionate.

AA: We are grateful to Jackie Agramonte from Breaking Serenity for graciously sharing her story and interests with us.

Jackie Agramonte | Singer & Pole Dancer

Please access the link below to find detailed information about Jackie Agramonte.

https://linktr.ee/jackieagramonte?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZhVXFMTiQ_pnpHgmRxEbqU1Bwpdq9ZJ4Hz7-coNc70TYkgfunkhpdEI0I_aem_1l9JBqA3L1dDlGQvRVHdRw

*** All photos by Jackie Agramonte and video by Breaking Serenity, unless otherwise noted***