If a song’s on the radio, Kara DioGuardi probably wrote it. Her songs have appeared on more than 100 million records. The Grammy nominee is one of the music industry’s most highly sought-after songwriters and producers. Artists like Britney Spears, the Jonas Brothers, Pussycat Dolls, Hannah Montana, Ashley Tisdale, Backstreet Boys and countless others have recorded and released DioGuardi’s songs. As co-owner of Arthouse Entertainment, DioGuardi mentors fellow hit writers, producers, and artists. Listen in as she reveals her feelings about the three H’s: Harry Connick Jr., Howard Stern and Hollywood.

First things first. What did you think of “Straight Up” and your own song?
I was impressed. “Straight Up” was genius. Is it odd when they sing songs you’ve written? I have to be honest; if she didn’t do a good job, I would’ve told her, but she definitely rocked it.

Is there an Adam Lambert effect this season?
I think people were interpreting songs from the get go. They weren’t just singing original songs. They were taking some risks. It’s definitely a sign of new artists, when they do something unique with the material.

What are your expectations for Hollywood?
With all the “newness” of this season, I want to remain open and stay in the moment to be the best judge I can be.

Speaking of new, what does Ellen bring to the show?
A sense of humor. She knows more about music than you think. She was critical at times, but delivered the message with kindness. She did an incredible job, which you’ll see more of. I’m very pleased to have her and it’s an honor to sit next to her.

How do you think Ellen changes the dynamic of the judges’ panel?
It’s going to grow over time. To speak on it now wouldn’t make sense. What you see is an edited version. We actually sat with her for hours, so the dynamic will develop over those hours. It’s very unpredictable you don’t know what will happen. I’m excited to see it through and to find a great winner.

Has your role changed at all?
I feel I’m a bit more supportive now than before. I try to give kids the benefit of the doubt and be nurturing. But you still have to ask yourself: Can they hold a tune? Can they keep up?

Who would be a good mentor to the show?
I really like Harry Connick Jr. I think he’d be great, especially for jazz. Meatloaf would be fun for rock. I’ve actually worked with him. We recorded a song recently. He brought out some great things from inside of me.

What about the Howard Stern rumors? Is he really joining Idol?
Right now, it’s rumor. I can’t really speak on it. I’m not sure he has a musical background. I think for Simon to be replaced, you really have to be someone who knows about singing, great artists. You also have to be part of their career from the beginning to the end. Like Leona Lewis... Simon turned her into a big star.

For the gendancers who want to audition, what’s the biggest mistake contestants make during Hollywood week?
It’s usually song choice. They take on something that’s way too big for them. Or, they go through audition rounds and after we praise how great they are, they completely take a chance when they get through. Or when they stand on stage and can’t perform, can’t project… things like that.

Producers have said they want to see a girl win. Do you have a preference?
I would love to see a girl win. With what’s going on in music currently, with Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Beyonce… they all have their own voices and styles. Just looking at the pool of talent this year, it’s very similar to those stars. But I also think the men are very good. They may not be as different as the women, but they are solid singers.

Thanks Kara! gendancers, we hope you’re excited for a whole new season of American Idol and an exclusive Behind the Scenes interview series to go along with it. Stay tuned to see who we’re talking to next week! It’s only in gendance...