In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Slot-A — a Chicago-based DJ, producer, curator, and community-builder whose journey bridges Detroit grit and Chicago soul. Known for his work with Jamila Woods, his Open Swim Chicago event series, and deep roots in the city’s underground, Slot-A embodies what it means to turn passion into longevity. From growing up in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to producing in New York and ultimately building a home in Chicago’s scene, he shares how faith, hustle, and self-awareness have guided his creative path. Slot-A takes us through his musical beginnings—discovering Sony Acid and Fruity Loops, experimenting with beatmaking on early software, and landing sync placements on shows like Jersey Shore and Stomp the Yard. He reflects on his time interning in New York studios, learning from industry veterans, and realizing that DJing is just as much a sales game as it is an art form—about knowing your value, understanding your crowd, and building leverage through relationships. We explore how he evolved from a bedroom producer to a full-fledged DJ, curator, and event programmer, and how each phase taught him the importance of networking, creating “randomness,” and turning luck into opportunity. Slot-A breaks down the differences between Chicago and New York as creative ecosystems, the philosophy behind Open Swim Chicago and Colors, and what it really takes to build sustainable music communities. Finally, he reflects on executive-producing Jamila Woods’ album “LEGACY! LEGACY!”, sharing how that project reshaped his understanding of collaboration, communication, and artistic integrity. 🎧 Follow Slot-A: https://www.slot-a.com 🎙️ Follow Poducer: linktr.ee/poducerpodcast The Podcast for Producers Chapters 00:00 Intro & name origin 02:30 PlayStation beatmaking & MTV Generator 05:00 DJing, events & Open Swim Chicago 08:00 Early production journey (Sony Acid → Fruity Loops) 11:00 First concerts: Prince, Missy Elliott, Alicia Keys, Ludacris 18:00 From Michigan to New York to Chicago 23:00 The Columbia College chapter 26:00 Detroit’s DIY scene & creative freedom 33:00 New York hustle, industry lessons & losing everything 39:00 Returning to Chicago & finding purpose 45:00 DJing as a sales gig — leverage, proof, & professionalism 51:00 Knowing your lane, your people, and your weapon 56:00 Networking, motion, & maintaining authenticity 1:03:00 The Chicago advantage — why the city takes care of its own 1:10:00 Executive producing Jamila Woods’ LEGACY! LEGACY! 1:30:00 The language of musicianship & learning collaboration 1:38:00 Reflections on creative faith, community & leadership 1:41:00 Closing thoughts, shout-outs, & where to find Slot-A