Whether you are a musician, a comedian, or any kind of creative, the hustle is universal.

In Episode 6, comedian, actress, content creator, and East Tennessee's #1 Host and MC Nicole Starnes shares her unfiltered blueprint for building a creative career from nothing.

We cover her entire journey: from an accidental five-minute hosting gig in Knoxville to touring the country with Darren Knight and Red Squirrel. We go deep into the real business of comedy: what it actually feels like to bomb on stage in Virginia, the unwritten rules nobody tells you about (including why you can absolutely never wear shorts on stage in Texas), and why knowing your worth means learning to stop saying yes to every low-paying gig.

We also get into the very real frustrations of social media algorithms, the unique challenge of being a hometown artist where locals procrastinate on buying tickets because they think you are too touchable, and the power of building a community that shows up for you.

Nicole closes with a simple but powerful challenge for every listener: no matter what industry you are in, make it a habit to just be kind.

Listen now and start your evolution.

Connect with Nicole:

https://nicolestarnescomedy.com

💎 Sponsored by:

Wizard of Rocks

https://www.facebook.com/WizardOfRocks/

https://www.instagram.com/wizard_of_rocks/

🌐 Learn more at:

https://josijanddessert.com/creative-evolution

🎬 Credits:

Guest: Nicole Starnes

Copywriter, Host, Editor, Research, Producer, Art Director and Designer: Josie "Josi J" Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Whether you are a musician, a comedian, or any kind of creative, the hustle is universal.

In Episode 6, comedian, actress, content creator, and East Tennessee's #1 Host and MC Nicole Starnes shares her unfiltered blueprint for building a creative career from nothing.

We cover her entire journey: from an accidental five-minute hosting gig in Knoxville to touring the country with Darren Knight and Red Squirrel. We go deep into the real business of comedy: what it actually feels like to bomb on stage in Virginia, the unwritten rules nobody tells you about (including why you can absolutely never wear shorts on stage in Texas), and why knowing your worth means learning to stop saying yes to every low-paying gig.

We also get into the very real frustrations of social media algorithms, the unique challenge of being a hometown artist where locals procrastinate on buying tickets because they think you are too touchable, and the power of building a community that shows up for you.

Nicole closes with a simple but powerful challenge for every listener: no matter what industry you are in, make it a habit to just be kind.

This full broadcast includes our signature music sweeps featuring tracks from Feral Kitty, China Styles, Jorden Albright, and Shayla McDaniel.

Listen now and start your evolution

Connect with Nicole:
https://nicolestarnescomedy.com

💎 Sponsored by:

Wizard of Rocks

https://www.facebook.com/WizardOfRocks/

https://www.instagram.com/wizard_of_rocks/

🎸 Featured artists:

Feral Kitty: https://feralkittymusic.com

China Styles: https://www.facebook.com/chinastyles1/

Jorden Albright: https://www.instagram.com/nonbright/

Shayla McDaniel: https://www.shaylamcdaniel.com

🌐 Learn more at:

https://josijanddessert.com/creative-evolution

https://linktr.ee/creativeevolutionpodcast

🎬 Credits:

Guest: Nicole Starnes

Copywriter, Host, Editor, Research, Producer, Art Director and Designer: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Want to step out of the background? In Episode 5, Sammy T and the Sunny D frontman Sam Travis shares how to beat your insecurities and lead with authenticity.

From playing bass at Disneyland as a teenager to navigating frustrating social media algorithms as the social media manager at ProMotion LLC, Sam has seen the music industry from every angle — the back of the stage, behind the computer screen, and now finally, front and center.

In this conversation, we dig into:
- How Sam spent years in the back watching, learning, and waiting until he finally had the confidence and clarity to step to the front
- Why your ego is both your greatest obstacle and your greatest teacher
- How checking your intentions is the key to authentic leadership — in your band, your business, and your life
- The reality of social media for working musicians: what it actually does, what it doesn't do, and why patience is non-negotiable
- Sam's holistic approach to sound, frequency, and healing through his crystal business, Wizard of Rocks
- Why authenticity is your most powerful networking asset

This full broadcast includes our signature local music sweeps featuring tracks from East Tennessee's finest independent artists!

Massive action equals massive results. Catch up on the episode and start your evolution today!

Sponsored by:
Wizard of Rocks
https://www.facebook.com/WizardOfRocks/
https://www.instagram.com/wizard_of_rocks/

Featured artists:
Corey James Clifton: https://coreyjamescliftonmusic.com
Rossdafareye: https://www.facebook.com/Rossdafareye/
Analog Kid: https://linktr.ee/AnalogKidMusic?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=2b663a60-a3fa-4303-bf41-4f8a65db0939

Learn more at:
https://josijanddessert.com/creative-evolution
https://linktr.ee/creativeevolutionpodcast

Credits:
Guest: Sam Travis
Copywriter, Host, Editor, Research, Producer, Art Director and Designer: Josie "Josi J" Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Want to step out of the background? In Episode 5, Sammy T and the Sunny D frontman Sam Travis shares how to beat your insecurities and lead with authenticity.

In this interview-only cut, we sit down with Sam to discuss his journey from playing bass at Disneyland as a teenager to fronting his own neo-soul project right here in Knoxville, Tennessee, and everything he learned along the way.

After five years as the social media manager for ProMotion LLC (one of Knoxville's most respected music marketing agencies), Sam brings a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on what the music industry actually looks like from the inside.

In this conversation, we cover:
- Why Sam spent years in the back before finally stepping to the front and what it actually took to get there
- His honest frustrations with Meta's algorithms and why patience is your most underrated social media strategy
- Why you need to stop trying to be cool, drop your ego, and check your intentions if you want to build real connections
- The practical social media tip that could save you 30% on every ad you run
- How sound, frequency, and crystal energy connect through his business Wizard of Rocks
- What he would do first if he had to start his career over from scratch with zero contacts
- The one piece of advice he left for every developing artist trying to build a long-term career

Short on time? This is your version.

Every insight, no music breaks.

Massive action equals massive results. Watch the full interview and start your evolution today!

Sponsored by:

Wizard of Rocks
https://www.facebook.com/WizardOfRocks/

https://www.instagram.com/wizard_of_rocks/

Featured artists:

Corey James Clifton: https://coreyjamescliftonmusic.com

Rossdafareye: https://www.facebook.com/Rossdafareye/

Analog Kid: https://linktr.ee/AnalogKidMusic?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=2b663a60-a3fa-4303-bf41-4f8a65db0939

Credits:

Guest: Sam Travis
Copywriter, Host, Editor, Research, Producer, Art Director and Designer: Josie "Josi J" Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The March Evolution Report — Dispatch No. 1

We're looking back at the themes, lessons, and conversations from Month One, distilling the absolute best advice from our first three episodes.

In this Dispatch, we revisit:

• Episode 1: Professional Humility and the Art of Mastery with Frank Sheadrick Jr

• Episode 2: The Symbiotic Stage: Music Management and Marketing with James Gilley

• Episode 3: Discovering, Not Deciding: Becki Grace on Community, Grief, and Local Honey

Brand-New Segment: The Customer Avatar- Breaking down your Target Audience

Support the Artists & Organizations Featured in Month One:

Jeanine Fuller: https://jeaninefuller.com

Thor and the Reigns: https://www.facebook.com/evanthorreigns/

Sammy T and the Sunny D: https://www.facebook.com/sammyandthesunny

Skyway 61: https://skyway61.com

Liv Noelle: https://livnoelle.com

Josi J and Dessert: https://josijanddessert.com

Becki Grace: https://beckigrace.com

Mikayla Major: https://www.instagram.com/sincerely_mik/

Monet Maddux: https://www.monetmaddux.com

The Montvales: https://www.themontvales.com

EmiSunshine: https://www.theemisunshine.com

HiDaze: https://hidazeband.com/home

ProMotion LLC: https://www.promotionmngt.com

Mochi: https://linktr.ee/MascotMochi

Learn more at:

https://josijanddessert.com/creative-evolution

https://linktr.ee/creativeevolutionpodcast

Credits:

Copywriter, Host, Editor, Research, Producer, Art Director and Designer: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Short on time? This version is packed with just the business strategies and interviews. If you want to hear the incredible local artists we featured this month, check out the 'Full Broadcast' version of this episode, or listen to our official Month One Spotify Playlist! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2iaDZgefX9WFmoIF5blqZg?si=80c94142a5474004

In this Dispatch, we revisit:

• Episode 1: Professional Humility and the Art of Mastery with Frank Sheadrick Jr

• Episode 2: The Symbiotic Stage: Music Management and Marketing with James Gilley

• Episode 3: Discovering, Not Deciding: Becki Grace on Community, Grief, and Local Honey

Brand-New Segment: The Customer Avatar — Breaking down your Target Audience

Learn more at:
https://josijanddessert.com/creative-evolution

https://linktr.ee/creativeevolutionpodcast

Credits: Copywriter, Host, Editor, Research, Producer, Art Director, and Designer: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In Episode 3 of Creative Evolution, I sit down right in the living room sanctuary of the incredible Becki Grace: a phenomenal local musician, certified therapist, and the host of Local Honey on Radio KCM.

We dive deep into the beautiful, messy, and sometimes heartbreaking reality of being a creative. Becki opens her heart and gets incredibly vulnerable about navigating the profound grief of losing her husband and bandmate, Jeff, and how she learned to transmute that pain into beautiful art. She shares her current journey of "discovering and not deciding" her identity, and how she channels her life experiences into her upcoming music.

We also discuss her resilience in keeping her radio show alive across three different stations over three years, and the powerful metaphor behind Local Honey: that women are queens creating sweet, savor-worthy music for the world. Becki explains why she intentionally uses her platform to champion and elevate other women in the local music scene by offering an informative, supportive space.

If you've ever felt stuck or scared to take the next step in your career, this episode is your sign to push forward. As Becki reminds us, perfection is a myth, so whatever challenges you face, you just have to "do it afraid".

Show Notes & Links:

• Connect with Becki Grace: Check out her radio show, Local Honey, and find her original music (including her single "Cruel Heart") on all streaming platforms or by visiting BeckiGrace.com.

• Featured Local Music: A huge thank you to the independent artists featured during today's music breaks!

  • Monet Maddux - https://www.monetmaddux.com

  • The Montvales - https://www.themontvales.com

  • EmiSunshine - https://www.theemisunshine.com

  • HiDaze - https://hidazeband.com/home

• Support the Community: A special thank you to Radio KCM for broadcasting the show and providing a platform that supports independent artists in the Knoxville community.

Learn more at:

https://josijanddessert.com/creative-evolution https://linktr.ee/creativeevolutionpodcast

Credits

Copywriter: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Host: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Guest: Becki Grace

Editor: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Research: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Producer: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Art Director and Designer: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Remember... your time to evolve starts right now!

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

⚠️ TW: Mental health struggles, addiction, and suicide. Listener discretion is advised.

In the second episode of Creative Evolution, host Josi J sits down with James Gilley, founder and CEO of the Knoxville-based entertainment marketing agency, ProMotion LLC. James breaks down the business of booking shows, the importance of setting clear expectations through "radical honesty," and why venues and artists absolutely must work together on social media marketing. We also dive into finding balance in the chaos of the music industry. Plus, James steps into the "Hot Seat" for a rapid-fire round of music industry questions.

Important Mental Health Resources: During today’s conversation, James and Josi openly discusses the need for people to get help when they are struggling with addiction or having suicidal thoughts. You do not have to go through it alone, and there is absolutely no shame in reaching out. If you or someone you know needs support, please use these free, confidential resources:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (Available 24/7)

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Links and Resources:

• Work with James Gilley: Visit ProMotion LLC at https://www.promotionmngt.com to learn more about his entertainment marketing and booking services.

• Learn more about Josi J & the Podcast: Head over to https://josijanddessert.com to stream music, check out tour dates, and dive deeper into Creative Evolution.

Featured Independent Music: A huge shoutout to the incredible independent artists featured during today’s music breaks! Support their work and check out their music below:

• Liv Noelle: https://livnoelle.com

• Josi J and Dessert: https://josijanddessert.com

• Sammy T and The Sunny D: https://www.facebook.com/sammyandthesunny

• Becki Grace: https://beckigrace.com

• Mikayla Major: https://www.instagram.com/sincerely_mik/

Special Thanks: A huge thank you to Radio KCM for broadcasting Creative Evolution and providing a platform that supports independent artists and the Knoxville community!

Connect with Creative Evolution: Follow the podcast and let us know what your biggest takeaway from James Gilley was! https://linktr.ee/creativeevolutionpodcast

Credits
Copywriter: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Host: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Guest: James Gilley
Editors: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Research: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Producer: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Art Director and Designer: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In today's digital age, streaming changes everything. The big question isn't "What next?" It's "How do we keep our skills sharp and stay successful for the long haul?"

In the premiere episode of Creative Evolution, host Josi J sits down with Full Sail Alumnus, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and music director Frank Sheadrick Jr.. Frank gets real about the harsh realities of the music business, sharing his method for turning career stress into creative stability.

Discover why raw talent might get you into the room, but it’s dropping your ego, staying prepared, and embracing "professional humility" that keeps you there. Plus, Frank steps into the "Hot Seat" for a rapid-fire round of music industry questions.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

• The Danger of the Ego: Frank shares his early struggles with being a "know-it-all" and how a humbling experience taught him the importance of keeping it simple and "staying in the pocket".

• The "Rock Star Good" Challenge: Inspired by Dave Grohl’s book The Storyteller, Josi J challenges listeners to stop sitting on the sidelines, join the march, and pick one area of their life to become "Rock Star Good" at.

Featured Independent Music: A huge shoutout to the incredible independent artists featured during today’s local music breaks! Support their work and check out their music below:

• Jeanine Fuller: https://jeaninefuller.com

• Thor and the Reigns: https://www.facebook.com/evanthorreigns/

• Sammy T and the Sunny D: https://www.facebook.com/sammyandthesunny

• Skyway 61: https://skyway61.com

• Josi J and Dessert: https://josijanddessert.com

Links and Resources:

• Follow Frank Sheadrick Jr.: https://www.instagram.com/fs1008sounds/

• Follow Mochi: https://linktr.ee/MascotMochi

Connect with Creative Evolution: Did you accept today's challenge? Let us know what area of your career you are committing to mastering this week! Tag us on social media using #CreativeEvolution.

(Broadcasting LIVE every Wednesday from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST on RadioKCM)
Learn more at:
https://josijanddessert.com/creative-evolution
https://linktr.ee/creativeevolutionpodcast
Credits
Copywriter: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Host: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Guest: Frank Sheadrick
Editors: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Research: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Producer: Josie “Josi J” Jones
Art Director and Designer: Josie “Josi J” Jones

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.