Creative Roots Podcast

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In this episode of Creative Roots, Tae sits down with his cousin Naomi from Nae’s Bookshelf — an avid reader, content creator, and advocate for literacy and representation.

Naomi is currently a student at North Carolina A&T State University with plans to pursue a career in law, but her love for reading started long before that. Coming from a family of educators, she turned that passion into action by creating a free book pantry outside of her church, making books accessible to her community.

This conversation goes deeper than just books.

We talk about:
The importance of representation in literature
Discovering and supporting Black authors
The current challenges facing libraries and access to books
How reading shapes perspective, purpose, and growth
Turning passion into impact within your community

Naomi also leaves us with a challenge at the end of the episode — one that encourages everyone watching to engage, reflect, and grow.

Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just getting started, this episode offers something meaningful for everyone.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

There’s a part of the creative journey nobody really talks about.

Not the beginning.  Not the success.  The middle.

In this episode of Creative Roots, Tae and Shamar sit down to unpack “The Uncomfortable Middle Phase.”  That space where you’re no longer new, but not quite where you want to be either.

This is where doubt creeps in.
Where progress feels slow.
Where most people quietly stop showing up.

We talk about:

 The real signs you’re stuck in the middle phase 

The traps creatives fall into when growth slows down 

 Why your progress might not look like progress (but still is) 

 The discipline required to keep going when it’s not exciting anymore 

And the truth about why most creatives don’t make it past this stage 

This episode is honest, reflective, and necessary.

If you’ve been putting in the work but not seeing the results yet…
 this conversation is for you.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Creative Roots, Tae sits down with Ty from the Ty Talks Podcast, and from the moment the cameras start rolling, you can tell this one is going to be a good time.

Ty came through the studio ready for jokes, laughs, and real conversation with the team. On his podcast, Ty covers a wide range of topics including sports, family, culture, and everyday life, and this conversation follows that same energy.

We get into:

How Ty started the Ty Talks Podcast
The growth and traction he’s seen since launching
His Top 5 picks (which might spark some debate)
The journey of building a podcast from home
The importance of support and community in podcasting

Ty also takes a moment to show love to the Charlotte Podcast Studio team, sharing how grateful he is for the help he received when setting up his in-home podcast studio.

Expect laughs, honest conversation, and a few moments that might make you pause or even debate.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

Today’s episode of Creative Roots looks a little different - we’re going virtual.

Tae taps in with Ammar, the other half behind Kolor Magazine, for a thoughtful conversation about the state of creatives, embracing new and humble beginnings, and what it looks like to approach life and creativity with a different mindset.

This episode explores:

The current landscape creatives are navigating
Why humility and starting fresh can be powerful
Shifting your perspective when life calls for a reset
The importance of growth, reflection, and purpose

During the conversation, Ammar also proposes a challenge - one that Tae felt was worth passing along to the Creative Roots community.

If you’re a creative thinking about your next move, your next chapter, or simply trying to approach life with more intention, this episode is for you.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Creative Roots, Tae sits down with Chef Fonz, the creator behind Black Gourmet CLT, for a conversation that blends movies, music, and of course… food.

Chef Fonz shares his journey from music and film into the kitchen, revealing how creativity doesn’t always stay in one lane. What started as a passion eventually turned into a business, serving plates throughout Charlotte in salons, barbershops, and catered events.

We talk about:

His early love for music and film
How creativity translated into cooking and food culture
The grind of building a food brand in the community
Why passion and consistency matter when turning talent into a business
And if Tae is in the room, you already know the conversation eventually comes back to food.

If you’re a creative exploring different passions or someone building something from the ground up, this episode is a reminder that your journey doesn’t have to follow a straight line.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

We’re closing out our February series, “Love God, Love Yourself,” with a powerful and heartfelt conversation.

In this episode of Creative Roots, Tae sits down with Kendall O’Neal, co-host of Authentic N Christ and founder of Yahweh for Her. Kendall is a woman of faith whose vision extends beyond words - into journals, conversations, and a lifestyle that reflects alignment with God.

This episode gets real.

We discuss:

The heart and vision behind Yahweh for Her journals
Building a faith-based brand with intention
Why Christianity is a lifestyle, not just a label
The importance of discernment - when vetting guests and in everyday life
Staying aligned with God’s will in business and relationships

There are emotional moments in this one. Honest moments. Necessary moments.

As we wrap this month’s theme, this conversation serves as a reminder that loving God and loving yourself requires alignment, obedience, and discernment.

If you’ve been seeking clarity, spiritual growth, or encouragement in your faith walk, this episode will meet you there.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

This episode of Creative Roots continues our February series, “Love God, Love Yourself,” with a timely and honest conversation.

Gaura Guzman joins Tae to unpack a shared realization:
2026 is the Year of Execution.

After spending much of 2025 planning, preparing, and sitting on ideas that never saw the light of day, both Tae and Gaura felt a clear shift - it’s time to move. Not rushed. Not forced. But aligned with God’s will.

In this episode, we talk about:

The difference between planning and obedience
Listening for God’s direction instead of chasing trends
What happens when fear delays purpose
Stewardship over the gifts God has already given you
Executing in alignment, not ego

This conversation is reflective, practical, and spiritual all at once. If you’ve been sitting on ideas, waiting for the “perfect” moment, or questioning when to move - this one will challenge you.

Grab your pen and pad. There’s a lot to unpack.

As we draw closer to the end of our Love God, Love Yourself series, this episode sets the tone for action.

And make sure you’re back next week - the conversation with Kendall O’Neal is one you won’t see coming.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

This episode of Creative Roots continues our February theme, “Love God, Love Yourself,” with a real and thoughtful conversation.

Tae sits down with Jonathan Everett, host and founder of the In Due SZN Podcast who’s been podcasting consistently for nearly two years. As he prepares to launch his website and upcoming merch, Jon opens up about his journey as a podcaster, creator, and believer navigating faith in a very public, digital space.

We dive into:
What it means to be a Christian on social media
Faith, accountability, and struggling with sin
Why reading your Bible matters more than ever
Balancing content creation with spiritual growth
Staying authentic while building a platform

This episode speaks directly to creatives and podcasters who are trying to honor God, love themselves, and stay grounded while showing up online.

It’s honest, reflective, and necessary — especially in a time where faith is often filtered or avoided altogether.

Tap in and join the conversation:
Like the episode if it resonates
Comment your thoughts on faith and creativity
Subscribe for more conversations rooted in purpose, growth, and authenticity

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

February on Creative Roots is themed “Love God, Love Yourself”, and we’re kicking it off with a meaningful conversation.

In this episode, Tae sits down with Cydnee Hymes, founder of The F3 Brand and co-host of ⁨Authentic N Christ Podcast⁩   to unpack what loving God and loving yourself truly means - beyond the surface.

Cydnee opens the conversation by answering the question:
“What comes to mind when you hear ‘Love God, Love Yourself’?”
From there, we dive into living a holistic life, growing as a believer in Christ, and navigating the real ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

This episode speaks on:
Authenticity in who you are and who you’re becoming
Learning to listen to God’s voice
Balancing faith, business, and personal growth
Trusting the process while your story is still being written
This isn’t about perfection  it’s about alignment, intention, and growth.
If you’re a creative, entrepreneur, or believer trying to move with purpose while staying true to yourself, this conversation will meet you right where you are.

Tap in and stay connected:
Like the episode if it resonates
Comment what “Love God, Love Yourself” means to you
Subscribe for more conversations rooted in faith, creativity, and growth

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios

Send us Fan Mail

This episode of Creative Roots is a moment to pause, reflect, and spotlight the voices that have already passed through the studio.

Due to inclement weather, we chose not to force a full sit-down conversation. Instead, this curated episode highlights key moments, gems, laughs, and reflections from past guests and our live session, reminding us why Creative Roots exists in the first place.

These clips represent:
The range of creatives we’ve sat with
The honesty and vulnerability shared on the couch
The lessons, laughs, and real conversations that keep showing up

This episode isn’t a recap, it’s a reflection.  A reminder of the seeds already planted, and the conversations still to come.

If you’re new here, this is a great entry point.
If you’ve been rocking with us, this one will feel familiar.

Tap in and stay connected:
Like the episode
Comment your favorite moment or guest
Subscribe for upcoming in-studio conversations

Creative Roots is about beginnings, process, and growth and we’re just getting started.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode hit home, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow creative on their journey. 

Where to find us:

Website:

www.creativerootspodcast.com

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CreativeRootsPodcast

IG/TikTok:

https://www.instagram.com/creativeroots.podcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@creativeroots.podcast

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CreativeRootsPodcast

Tae-@taewiththeedits
Shamar-@alanluxstudios