AP

New "Idol" judge Kara DioGuardi.

One of the biggest changes for the new season of "American Idol" is the addition of a fourth judge, song writer and producer Kara DioGuardi. I listened in on a conference call this afternoon where reporters asked DioGuardi about her experiences so far. Here were some of the highlights:

• Even though she's been busy with "Idol," she's also been able to continue her other work in the music industry. She said she just returned from Hawaii where she worked on a song working with Colby Caillet. "I love her voice."

• About the dynamics of the new four-judge panel: "There definitely were times when Paula (Abdul) and I sided against the guys (Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson). There was a little girl power going on."

• Describing the characteristics of each judge: "Paula has a lot of heart. Simon tells it like it is. Randy's the diplomat. I think I am a combination of all of them."

• About the power to hold people's fate in her hands: "I believe in second chances early on." She said that she tried to recognize if it was just a bad audition and that maybe the person had something that still warranted a pass to the next round.

• About this year's crop of contestants: She couldn't really say much, but repeated what she said before about the men being stronger than the women. She also said there seemed to be more "uniqueness" this year in terms of the styles of the contestants.

• When asked about her favorite former idols to work with, she mentioned Kelly Clarkson: "She can sing anything."

• Some closing thoughts for Idol wannabes, especially those who don't make the cut: "Nobody can tell you you can't achieve your dream if you work hard enough."