We recently had the chance to connect with Sophie Gragg and have shared our conversation below.
Sophie, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Who are you learning from right now?
Right now, I’ve been really inspired by Rick Rubin. I just finished listening to his book “The Creative Act”, which has been on my reading list for a long time. It’s really impacted how I think about the creative process and all of the self-imposed rules we often create for ourselves around it. It reminded me that creativity isn’t something to force or control and is instead something to nurture and stay open to. I love how he talks about the balance between discipline and play, and how art can be a reflection of the moment rather than perfection.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Sophie Gragg, the founder and editor-in-chief of The Luna Collective, a music and arts magazine dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists and creative voices. What makes Luna special is that we are not just one thing. While we have our print magazine, we have endless online content, we throw in person events, host online workshops, create merch, and even host educational digital courses. Our commitment to our community and our ability to collaborate with so many different creatives is something I am really proud of. I am so grateful for the community we get to be part of, both online and offline.
Right now, we’re working on our 25th print issue, which feels like such a milestone! This issue will reflect a lot of changes that I am excited to share. We’re also putting together live shows in LA and Austin (including SXSW 2026), and are continuing to expand our online coverage with interviews, photo features, and short-form content. At its core, Luna has always been about building a space where independent artists feel seen, supported, and celebrated, and that mission is what continues to drive everything we do.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I think the part of me that’s served its purpose is the journalist who felt she had to do everything herself. When The Luna Collective first started, I was writing nearly every article and conducting every interview. Over time, I’ve learned to let that part go, and to trust my team and give them the space to grow into those roles. Now, I rarely do interviews and writing myself, which has allowed me to focus on the bigger picture projects: creative direction, building partnerships, and dreaming up what’s next for Luna. It’s been a really rewarding shift from being the storyteller to empowering others on my team to take on these amazing opportunities.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self that you don’t have to prove you’re an artist to be one. Creativity isn’t something you earn through validation or achievements. It’s something that already lives within you. You can claim that identity fully, even before anyone else recognizes it.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
One of our core truths, though we don’t often say it outright, is that everything we do is rooted in community and representation. We’ve always prioritized working with and featuring women, queer folks, and other marginalized creatives. It’s not a slogan, it’s just how we operate. Our team is predominantly female and I always try to priortizie hiring the girls/gays/theys. That energy shapes everything from our storytelling to who we choose to uplift.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I think I was born to connect people. To build spaces where creativity and community can thrive together. Through The Luna Collective, I get to do exactly that. It’s not something I was told to do, it’s something that’s always felt instinctive – bringing people together, helping them feel seen, and creating something meaningful in the process.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thelunacollective.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itssophielol
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-gragg/
