Starving Artist Development Podcast

In this episode of the Starving Artist Podcast, host Gabrielle Caruthers interviews Jada Vassar, an award-winning journalist and recent Michigan State University graduate. They discuss Jada's journey into journalism, her writing process, the challenges she faced during her internships, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Jada shares her experiences navigating new environments, the influence of her cultural identity and music on her work, and offers advice for aspiring journalists. The conversation highlights the resilience and creativity of Detroit's cultural artists and the significance of their contributions to the community.

Takeaways

Jada's journey in journalism began with a passion for writing.

The importance of internships in building a career in journalism.

Authenticity is crucial in storytelling and journalism.

Music plays a significant role in Jada's writing process.

Navigating new environments can be challenging for journalists.

Resilience is key in overcoming obstacles in the journalism field.

Jada emphasizes the importance of centering Black voices in her work.

The impact of community feedback on a journalist's motivation.

Cultural identity shapes the stories journalists tell.

Jada encourages aspiring journalists to keep going despite challenges.

Follow her on Instagram:@jvproductions_11

LinkedIn: Jada Vasser

#journalism #Detroit #storytelling #cultural #identity #resilience #music #internships #authenticity #writingprocess #Black voices

In this episode of the Starving Artist Development Podcast, host Gabrielle Carruthers engages with journalist and filmmaker Bryce Huffman. They discuss Bryce's journey in journalism and film, the importance of storytelling, and the narratives surrounding Detroit's cultural richness. The conversation delves into the challenges of funding creative projects, the significance of community engagement, and the advice Bryce offers to aspiring creatives. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the need for authenticity in storytelling and the importance of uplifting local voices in the narrative of Detroit's revitalization.

Takeaway

Bryce Huffman emphasizes the importance of community engagement in journalism.

The narrative of Detroit is complex, with both challenges and opportunities.

Storytelling should focus on the experiences of people in the community.

Funding for creative projects often comes from crowdfunding and working for others.

Aspiring creatives should not strive for perfection but focus on getting started.

Structure in storytelling can enhance creativity and focus.

It's crucial to uplift local voices in the narrative of a city.

The revitalization of Detroit is driven by those who stayed during tough times.

Networking and relationship building are key in the creative industry.

Every project contributes to a creative's catalog and brand. 

For more information on Bryce's contribution to the city of Detroit and how to support independent journalism, visit www.bridgedetroit.com

Follow Bryce on Instagram: @brycehuffman313 @bridgedetroit

In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of being an independent artist, discussing the importance of registering music, the challenges of rebranding, and the role of social media in promoting music. They explore the significance of community in the arts, the balance between artistic freedom and corporate constraints, and the necessity of finding resources and building networks. The discussion also touches on the evolution of hip hop and the need for community engagement to preserve its culture.

Takeaways

Independent artists must navigate registration and distribution processes.

Rebranding can be a cumbersome but necessary part of an artist's journey.

Social media platforms serve different purposes for music promotion.

Short-form content is effective for quick engagement, while long-form content allows for deeper storytelling.

Community support is vital for artists to thrive and combat burnout.

Artistic freedom is essential for creativity and self-expression.

Finding resources and building networks can help artists succeed.

The hip hop community must engage and uplift each other to preserve culture.

Artists often face pressure to constantly release music, leading to burnout.

Understanding the audience is key to effective music promotion.

In this episode of the Starving Artist Development Podcast, host Gabrielle Caruthers engages in a heartfelt conversation with lyricist Fonzo, exploring themes of personal growth, parenthood, and the healing power of art. They discuss the evolution of Fonzo's music career, the importance of authenticity in artistic expression, and the challenges faced by independent artists in navigating the music industry. The conversation delves into the significance of storytelling in music, the process of writing lyrics, and the mental health aspects of being an artist. Fonzo shares his journey of self-discovery and the transformative power of music as a means of processing life experiences.

Takeaways

The journey of parenthood brings unexpected growth and healing.

Art can serve as a powerful tool for processing emotions.

Authenticity in artistry is crucial for genuine expression.

Independent artists face unique challenges in the music industry.

Storytelling in music creates a deeper connection with listeners.

Mental health awareness is essential for artists.

The writing process involves personal reflection and connection.

Transitioning to a new artistic identity can be liberating.

Understanding music registration is vital for financial success.

Artistic expression can lead to personal transformation. 

In this episode of the Starving Artist Development Podcast, host Gabrielle Caruthers sits down with Desmond Clever, a prominent storyteller and community advocate from Detroit. They discuss Desmond's journey from radio to creating the Clever Vision Comedy Show, his marketing expertise, and his commitment to uplifting the Detroit community. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic storytelling, the impact of faith in creativity, and the unique culture of Detroit. Desmond shares his experiences working with major brands like Cartier and reflects on the significance of giving back to the community. The episode concludes with insights on the power of perspective in storytelling and the need for more voices to share Detroit's rich narratives.

Takeaways

Desmond Clever emphasizes the importance of community and storytelling.

The Clever Vision Comedy Show provided a platform for local talent.

Desmond's journey in marketing began with his work in radio.

Authenticity in storytelling is crucial for connecting with audiences.

Faith plays a significant role in Desmond's creative process.

Detroit is often misunderstood, and it's important to change the narrative.

Desmond's work with Cartier highlights the connection between brands and local culture.

Giving back to the community is a core value for Desmond.

Event planning often comes with unexpected challenges and learning experiences.

The unique perspective of each storyteller is invaluable. 

Follow Desmond on Instagram: @cleverthegreat @clevervizion

The conversation explores the importance of community empowerment and resilience in creating a local economy. It emphasizes the need for collaboration and creativity to establish a sustainable currency within the community, drawing on historical references like Motown to illustrate the enduring spirit of local initiatives.

Takeaways

They didn't want to come to the city because there was no money.

We had to create our own currency.

We can't stop creating currency just because others enter the market.

We need to come together as a community.

Let's buy this up and create our clubs.

Baker's has been here since Motown.

Community collaboration is essential for growth.

Resilience is key to sustaining local initiatives.

Creativity can drive economic change.

Empowerment comes from within the community.

Follow Antoine on Instagram: @officialadot

www.officialadot.com

In this episode of the Starving Artist Development podcast, host Gabrielle Caruthers engages in a heartfelt conversation with artist Korona. They discuss the challenges of balancing a creative career with traditional employment, the impact of grief and loss on artistry, and the importance of authenticity in the creative process. Korona shares her journey of self-discovery, the creation of her production company, Golden Girl Productions, and the lessons learned during the pandemic. The conversation emphasizes resilience, empowerment, and the significance of staying true to oneself as an artist.

Takeaways

Gabrielle Caruthers hosts the Starving Artist Development podcast, focusing on Detroit's cultural artists.

Korona shares her journey as a multifaceted artist balancing work and creativity.

The stigma of having a regular job while being an artist is discussed.

Korona reflects on the challenges of navigating grief after losing her mother.

The pandemic significantly impacted Korona's creativity and artistic direction.

Golden Girl Productions was created as a platform for women producers.

Korona emphasizes the importance of authenticity in artistry.

The conversation highlights the struggles of independent artists in the industry.

Korona's experiences illustrate the resilience required to pursue a creative career.

The podcast encourages aspiring artists to stay true to themselves and their unique voices.

Follow Miz Korona on Instagram: @mizkorona @triggerfingervisuals @gldndrlprdxn @triplepeakclothing

www.mizkorona.bandcamp.com

In this conversation, Nick Speed shares his journey in the music industry, detailing his breakthrough moment when he got signed to G Unit and the success of the 'Get Rich or Die Tryin'' soundtrack, which achieved remarkable sales milestones shortly after its release.

Takeaways

Nick Speed's music caught attention with a couple of songs.

He was signed to 50 G Unit as an in-house producer.

The 'Get Rich or Die Tryin'' soundtrack had a significant impact.

The album sold 800,000 copies in its first week.

It quickly achieved gold, platinum, and then triple platinum status.

The 20-year anniversary of the album is celebrated this month.

Nick's journey reflects the challenges and triumphs in the music industry.

The importance of networking and showcasing talent in music.

Success in music often comes from a combination of talent and timing.

The evolution of an artist's career can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Follow Nick on Instagram:@nickspeed

Save the date! Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 10 AM EST!

Waddup doe!

Welcome to the Starving Artist Development Podcast.

I’m am your host, Gabrielle Caruthers.

Detroit’s cultural artists discuss the highs, lows and artist development that help shape Detroit’s originality.

Offering tips, resources, and community building, we strive to be the hub for everything cultural arts - paying homage to cultural artists - one innovator and curator at a time.

Want to watch the show or listen to new episodes? To watch the full interviews, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

You can also subscribe to the show on Apple Podcast and Spotify. Last, follow us on Instagram @starvingartistdevelopment 

Beats by @nickspeedent