I’ve lived in the Coachella Valley since 1989. Moving here was a bold step—I had three kids, all in their early teens, and very little experience navigating life on my own. Newly divorced and determined (fearless… or maybe just a little ignorant), I was set on building a better life for us than the one we left behind.
It was an E-ticket ride, for sure—and by God’s grace, we made it through.
Looking back, so many of my experiences came together in unexpected ways. “Laura Untethered” is no exception.
A few years ago, I found myself stepping into the role of musical director for a local streaming talk show. At the time, I was drifting a bit, unsure of my next chapter. I had previously appeared as a guest, so when I was asked to join the team, I was both flattered and excited. I handled sound for the hosts and guest performers, and for a while, it was a lot of fun… until it wasn’t.
The show ended abruptly when one of the hosts suddenly walked away. The rest of us were left stunned.
Instead of letting that momentum die, I decided to build something new.
I created a show centered around the Coachella Valley’s vibrant entertainment scene—highlighting musicians, performers, festivals, and local events. But instead of bringing talent into a studio, we would go out into the community. We would meet the music where it lived.
I called it “The Players’ Club.”
The show took off. My co-host and I attended events, filmed performances, and produced short videos that captured the spirit of the desert’s creative energy. What started as a streaming show eventually grew into something bigger—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Today, The Players’ Club not only promotes local venues and artists, but also supports musicians and collaborates with other charities in the community. My late husband, Earle, was deeply passionate about supporting local talent. In many ways, this became a continuation of his legacy.
Then it happened again.
Without warning or conversation, my co-host walked away.
Once again, I was left in shock. Some people suggested I shut everything down. After all, starting over twice is enough to make anyone question whether it’s worth it.
But I couldn’t accept that.
Why should something meaningful—something that had already given so much to the community—be abandoned because one person stepped away?
The answer was simple: it shouldn’t.
And that’s where “Laura Untethered” was born.
It took time to regroup, refocus, and redefine my vision. But with that time came clarity—and clarity brings freedom. Freedom to grow, to stretch, and to continue supporting the incredible community we call the desert.
Today, The Players’ Club with Laura Untethered has a new face on YouTube where you can explore all of our platforms and follow the journey forward. https://www.youtube.com/@ThePlayersClubLH
I’ve also recently authored a book, Between the Notes, a deeply personal memoir centered on my late husband and our life together. It became a #1 bestseller within its first 24 hours—something I’m incredibly proud of. https://a.co/d/02qFLYKC
This is a new chapter.
And this time, I’m not waiting for permission.
Let the show go on!