We had the good fortune of connecting with Gina Zollman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gina, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Authenticity inspires me. People who dare to share their soul by singing, writing, caregiving, cooking- by being their true self, that’s what I aspire to.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
It’s a lifelong journey,, being a singer/songwriter. Some years have been extremely fruitful, some not so much. I write alone, mostly, but have recently collaborated with a former teacher of mine, and it’s been a game changer. His musicianship is inspiring and I feel like we’ve struck gold. Our first show together of all co-written material is the end of November. So excited to present this collection of heart-sourced and intimate music. People can hear our style in this collection, and they can feel the honesty and truth-telling in the lyrics which are completely wrapped together with the music- it’s our sound, and it’s an amazing thing to experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to Cheeky’s for breakfast, in downtown Palm Springs. It’s farm to table, organic, excellent food in a fun setting. The menu is amazing! Then I would take them up the Palm Springs tramway, go for a hike, and enjoy the views of our valley. Lunch is healthy and delicious and you can’t beat the splendor of this experience. Home for Thai chicken curry, my specialty, followed by a relaxing jacuzzi. The next day is the Palm Springs Air Museum. The docents are military veterans and pilots, full of real world stories and expert tours of the museum and the planes themselves. We might take a flight in a biplane from yesteryear if we’re feeling brave! Then to Mirasol for Mexican food! The best homemade tortillas in town! Then to The Roost after a walk in the shopping district in the heart of PS. At the Roost open mic I’ll sing some original songs for my guests and many friends I’ve made here. We’ll go to Palm Desert and walk around El Paseo, checking out Williams Sonoma and Saks, having lunch at Tommy Bahama’s. The lobster bisque is a must, and then you have to try the Pina Colada cake! There’s a great consignment shop at the far end, and I always like to show my friends where to get the deals in designer clothes! The next day it has to be German pancakes at Elmer’s! Yummy! Then a trip back to Palm Desert for a safari at The Living Desert! Feed the giraffes! Take the tour bus and enjoy the wildlife! Then to the Palm Desert Aquatic Center for a luxurious swim and a bit of pool lounging. Later we’ll hit The Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente for some jazz, and maybe a little blackjack afterwards! For a little adventure, the next day we’ll pack a lunch and visit Joshua Tree, hike and have a picnic in nature. Home for delivery pizza from Bill’s, and a Netflix film noir movie. No trip to Palm Springs is complete without going to the Thursday night Street Fair! Grab some street food and look at all the hand made things and listen to the singers along the way. Go to the Penthouse at the Rowan for cocktails and a stunning view of our sweet town. We splurge on the last day for an Eco-Tour of Palm Springs- a nature guide full of hidden gems and local geological sights- fun and interesting. Our last night we hit Tropicana for delicious local cuisine before seeing a terrific Drag Show at the Copa, right next door! I make my famous Challah French toast for breakfast, on our last morning, and I get everybody to the airport in time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My father really believed in me. He thought I could do anything I set my sights on. He was proud of me. His unwavering belief and love still fuels me even though he’s been gone 30 years. I loved him fiercely.

Website: https://www.ginazollman.com

Instagram: gianninaz26

Linkedin: Gina Capalbo Zollman

Facebook: Gina Capalbo Zollman

Youtube: Gina Zollman

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.