“There's a time where the artist sleeps, and there's a time when the artist creates. And now is the time for the artist to create, because it's the mirror back to our society. And it doesn't have to be perfect. It doesn't have to be amazing. It just needs to be, because we all need it to be.” - Jazelle Foster  On this episode I talk with digital marketing strategist and actor Jazelle Foster for a truly inspiring and candid conversation. Jazelle shares her winding journey from actor to accomplished educator and entrepreneur, revealing how her determination to avoid the emotional drain of service gigs led her to discover a passion for teaching—and eventually, for helping artists master the ever-evolving world of marketing. We unpack what it really means to be a multi-hyphenate creative in today’s unpredictable arts industry and Jazelle speaks honestly about learning through experience, and the often messy process of finding balance between artistic pursuits and business ambitions. We discuss the pressures (and pitfalls) of social media, the importance of protecting your energy, and why every artist’s path is unique—and valid. With warmth and wit, Jazelle offers practical insights for artists trying to carve out their own version of success—whether by building a business, embracing their current pivot, or simply giving themselves permission not to do it all. This episode is packed with wisdom about following inspiration, maintaining joy, and keeping your inner child at the heart of your creative journey. If you’ve ever wondered how to survive and thrive as a creative entrepreneur, this conversation is for you!  Podcast Newsletter  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Podcast Buy Me a Coffee  Get in touch: Jazelle Foster  Instagram  LinkedIn  Creatives Meet Marketing  Website  Instagram  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network  digital marketing, actor entrepreneurship, social media strategy, creative entrepreneurship, work-life balance, branding for actors, pivoting careers, teaching theater, bootcamp for digital marketing, social media for artists, energy management, side hustles for creatives, marketing for actors, content creation, going viral on social media, building an agency, client management, block scheduling, detachment from work, income streams for artists, coping with adulthood, joy in creative careers, personal branding, online presence, business ownership as an artist, inspiration for creativity, managing multiple passions, agency team management, artist identity, social media alternatives for artists

Failure is really the platform to success, because you know that if you failed you tried, and if you tried you can try again. Failure teaches you more than success.” - Satori Shakoor On this episode I am joined by the powerhouse storyteller, artist, and social entrepreneur Satori Shakoor. From her earliest artistic dreams in second grade to the groundbreaking Brides of Funkenstein and launching her own theater company, Satori has mastered the art of the pivot—constantly reinventing herself and her creative journey. We dive into Satori’s new film, Confessions of a Menopausal Femme Fatale, an honest and hilarious stand-up storytelling concert that shines a much-needed light on menopause and women’s health. Satori shares her personal pivots, from making cardboard violins as a determined child, to founding the culturally diverse Obsidian Theatre Company in Canada, to harnessing the power of storytelling as a service. Along the way, Satori offers her wisdom on pushing past self-doubt and embracing your own definition of success—while championing the importance of women sharing stories, taking up space, and rejecting society’s outdated demands.  If you’re ready for inspiration, laughter, and a powerful reminder to “do what you love, no matter what,” this episode is for you. Podcast Newsletter  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Podcast Buy Me a Coffee  Get in touch: Satori Shakoor Website  Instagram  LinkedIn  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network  menopause, perimenopause, women’s health, storytelling, social entrepreneurship, pivoting careers, self-empowerment, breaking taboos, Black women, theater company, Obsidian Theatre, Detroit arts, stand-up comedy, executive producer, documentary film, Confessions of a Menopausal Femme Fatale, community support, patriarchy, self-doubt, women in the arts, artistic entrepreneurship, creating opportunities, representation, mental health, post-partum depression, sexuality, ageism, women’s empowerment, artistic resilience, work-life balance

On today’s episode I am joined by Pia Leichter, creative partner, author, and creative coach for a conversation about embracing pivots, unleashing creativity, and designing life as your biggest art project. Pia shares her journey from New York City to Copenhagen and transition from a decade-long agency career to entrepreneurship by finally listening to that little voice nudging her toward something bigger. We debunked the myth that we’re supposed to have it all together by a certain age because that doesn’t leave room to grow or cultivate new experiences.  You’ll hear some beautiful reflections on navigating loss, the courage it takes to make big life pivots, and practical wisdom for artists and creatives striving to bloom within the realities of life. Pia also discusses her book, "Welcome to the Creative Club: Make Life Your Biggest Art Project," and shares why she believes every leap of faith can spark lasting transformation. Pia invites us to challenge our own notions of security, trust the process, and find joy in not knowing what’s next. Get ready to dive into a conversation that’s equal parts practical, philosophical, and deeply nurturing for the creative soul. Podcast Newsletter  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Podcast Buy Me a Coffee  Get in touch: Pia Leichter Website  Instagram  LinkedIn  Book - Welcome to the Creative Club: Make Life Your Biggest Art Project Amazon Bookshop.org Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network  creative journey, pivoting careers, entrepreneurship, creative coaching, living in Copenhagen, , traveling to Bali, celebrating milestones, first-time experiences, overcoming fear, leaving a salaried job, agency life, creativity and uncertainty, embracing not knowing, intuitive decision-making, writing a book, storytelling, vulnerability, grief and loss, financial security, money mindset, co-creation, creative process, trusting the process, newsletter writing, creating evidence, work-life balance, artist struggles, creative fulfillment

A minisode where I reflect on and continue to process the unforgettable, transformative, powerful, and dare I say better than Renaissance, what is known as The Cowboy Carter Tour. Decked out in my patch work denim hat and Cowgirl Major Bey sash I got to witness Beyoncé’s legendary dedication, creativity, and showmanship live at the Cowboy Carter Rodeo Chitlin Circuit. I unpack how Beyoncé’s presence inspires fans to level up, embrace their own excellence, and show up as the “best version” of themselves—reminding us all we are “one of one.” Reflection #1: Creativity Inspires Creativity  Reflection # 2: Level Up to Your Best Self  Reflection #3: Own Your Uniqueness Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Podcast Buy Me a Coffee  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network  Cowboy Carter, Beyonce, Renaissance, Cowboy Carter Rodeo Chitlin Circuit, creativity, costumes, denim outfits, patchwork denim hat, cowgirl sash, inspiration, motivation, leveling up, self-improvement, agency, best version of yourself, Blue Ivy Carter, Rumi Carter, stage concepts, stage visuals, choreography, vocals, audience outfits, concert takeaways, Beyonce fandom, energy, showmanship, joy

On today’s episode I am joined by the dynamic, multidisciplinary artist Stephanie Graham. She wears many creative hats including being an art director, owner and creator of Graham Cracker Pin Company, and a podcaster. Shout out to her podcast Nosey AF! Stephanie’s journey has been nothing short of a series of creative pivots, and together we dive into what it means to keep moving through career changes, industry strikes, and personal evolution while navigating the ever-shifting landscape of the creative world. We chat honestly about the reality of sustaining an artistic career—balancing bills, burnout, multiple streams of income, and the pressures (and joys) of being now being self declared  “bare minimum baddies.” This episode is filled with practical wisdom on building community, nurturing meaningful relationships, networking (or as Stephanie likes to say, “kicking it”), and honoring your creative practice, even when the world feels overwhelming. Whether you’re an artist in transition, or just looking for inspiration to keep creating amidst the chaos, this conversation is your reminder that it’s okay to rest, to set boundaries, and to play—sometimes just for yourself. If you are feeling the weight of the world right now, tune in and get ready to laugh, reflect, and be encouraged to support your art, your community, and yourself—#bareminimumbaddiestyle. Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Podcast Buy Me a Coffee  Get in touch: Stephanie Graham Website  Instagram  LinkedIn  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network  Bare Minimum Baddies, The Artist Pivot Podcast, Pivoting artist, career transitions, nurturing community, rest, self-care, playfulness, creativity, arts podcast, ayana major bey, stephanie graham, inspiration, arts community, artist help, nosey af, staying sane, entertainment industry, navigating an artistic career, black women in entertainment 

On this episode of The Artist Pivot Podcast, I am joined by award-winning Producer, Director, and Writer Nasir Kenneth Ferebee. We explore Nasir's transition from the East Coast to the bustling world of Los Angeles, his experiences in the entertainment industry, and the empowering decision to pivot towards creating his own content, because he always knew independent film making was in his path but didn’t know how. Throughout the episode, Nasir shares invaluable insights on producing, the importance of standing beside one another in moments of success, and the art of balancing personal growth with professional ambitions. We also discuss staying power and resilience in the creative field and the importance of acting on your dreams now and how it’s also important to pivot at the right time. You may be called to make a decision that you think you're ready for but ultimately like Nasir said you have to Let Go of the Good Thing to get the God thing. Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Get in touch: Nasir Kenneth Ferebee  Website  Instagram  LinkedIn  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

Never stop learning about the things that you really love, because when you aren't afraid to learn it can give so much clarity. - Dale Novella Anderson-Lee  On this episode I am joined by the multi-talented Dale Novella Anderson Lee, who happens to be a funk songwriter and teaching artist. Dale shares her journey of navigating the arts world while staying true to her beliefs and community values. From her early passion for music and songwriting inspired by family performances to her exploration of teaching artistry and the therapeutic aspects of the arts, Dale discusses the ups and downs of her creative path. She imparts wisdom on the importance of saying 'no' to opportunities that don't align with personal values and embracing hobbies for a balanced life. She offers candid insights into the pivots and self-discoveries that have shaped her career, and the continuous learning process she champions for artists seeking alignment and success in their journeys. Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Get in touch: Dale Novella  Website Instagram Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

On this episode I am joined by self-proclaimed "Pivot Connoisseur" Micah Dawanyi who has journeyed from being a competitive soccer player to a storyteller, illustrator, novelist, and speaker. Micah opens up about his transformative pivot into the arts following a forced departure from sports due to medical issues. He shares insights into how grief from such life pivots informed his artistic expression and creative journey. Micah also discusses his unique approach to writing, where illustration often precedes the narrative, drawing from his insights into creative expression. As an author of three books, Micah reflects on the slow processing of emotional experiences, the importance of recognizing personal artistic processes, and dealing with vulnerabilities and impostor syndrome. Together we explore themes of artistic resilience, accepting and making space for emotions, and the beauty in the unconventional paths of artistry. My takeaways from this episode are to jump before you can overthink because I sometimes deal with analysis paralysis and to try and find peace in every pivot because you deserve it. Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Get in touch: Micah Dawanyi  Linktree  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

On this episode I am joined by art consultant and theological art historian Dr. Quahana Hendree, who has a unique journey that connects the corporate world and artistic community. We dove into her journey from a fearless five-year-old passionate about art to becoming a powerhouse art consultant. She shared how she bridges the gap between the business world and the art world, increasing art IQ while getting artists paid and corporate spaces beautified, and how art not only enhances corporate environments but also nurtures productivity and well-being. Get ready to explore how art consulting can bring alignment between businesses and their visual spaces, fostering a seamless blend of aesthetics and function. Whether you're an artist wanting to expand into corporate spaces or someone intrigued by the transformative power of art, this episode promises a wealth of inspiration and wisdom. My takeaway from this episode is that Dr. Hendree reminded me that every pivot, even the challenging ones, adds to your skills and growth. I would also love to hear your takeaways from this episode, so feel free to send me an email to ayana [at] theartistpivot.com.  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Get in touch: Dr. Quahana Hendree  Website  Instagram Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

Welcome to the 7th season of the award winning The Artist Pivot Podcast! This podcast was created to have conversations with artists, those who work in and around the arts, and arts educators as a way to hear their stories of pivoting and life lessons in their careers. With these conversations the mission is to educate, empower, and celebrate artists so they have no option but to thrive.  This trailer includes clips from upcoming episodes in the season that feature Art Consultant and Theological Art Historian Dr. Quahana Hendree, Novelist and Illustrator Micah Dawanyi, two-time Emmy® nominated, NAACP Image, and GLAAD award-winning producer, director, and writer Nasir Ferebee, and Funk Songwriter and Teaching Artist Dale Novella.  Links Template  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

This episode is the finale of Season 6. Yes it’s a wrap on season 6 and what a joy it has been. This season the podcast reached the milestone of 100 episodes and received its first award. I am over the moon to announce that the podcast has been awarded the Bronze and Listener’s Choice 2024 Signal awards in the Artists and Designers Shaping Culture Category! Cheers to more seasons and more awards.  Now on today’s show you are in for a real treat because you have two Jersey girls, with Caribbean mothers, and theater backgrounds on the microphone. It was such a pleasure to sit down with none other than actorprenuer Lori Tishfield, who now resides in Toronto. We discuss how important it is to maintain a sense of self beyond your professional identity and sitting in a place of balance between internal validation and the need for external affirmation from the industry. We touch upon overcoming self doubt and societal conditioning so you can own your confidence and move through your career, business and life with agency. Reminiscing on how the regalness of the black actresses we grow up on and their mere presence was empowering and unapologetic, teaching us we are expensive. Our thoughts, feelings, and contributions to this world especially as black women are expensive and we should act accordingly. We dissect how rejection is protection, the need to sometimes pull the receipts from past experiences to remember things that have worked out before and not forcing doors shut before their time. This episode boils down to trusting your intuition as your compass, understanding that your path is uniquely yours, and pivoting with grace so you can see where the journey takes you.  Lori Tishfield is an Actorpreneur simultaneously based in Brooklyn and Toronto. Lori’s most recent live performances have been as a featured vocalist in André De Shields’ concert series and in her recent and first solo show, Audra on a Budget, at Green Room 42. On television, Lori can also be found in Orange is the New Black and FBI: Most Wanted. Aside from the arts, Lori is the Founder of Natural Talent, an experiential staffing agency exclusively staffing actors in brand ambassador work. In the last 9 years, Natural Talent has partnered with over 300 brands and provided “survival jobs” for over 500 actors nationwide. This Fall, Lori has stepped in as the national facilitator of the Creative Entrepreneurship Project for the Entertainment Community Fund, educating artists nationwide on how to start their own businesses. Links Template  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Lori Tishfield Website  Instagram  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

On today's episode we are taking a deep dive into the creative journeys of my guests Marci J. Duncan and Kerry Sandell. We discuss non-linear career paths and making peace with one’s decisions, the significance of discovering personal passions and how viewing industry changes as opportunities to create authentic storytelling. We touch upon the dichotomy of fear preventing people from pursuing opportunities or keeping them trapped in unfulfilling paths and gain insight into their personal career pivots—from delayed dreams to embracing those nonlinear paths in the arts. We explore the organic beginnings of their collaborative play "Dissonance," a powerful narrative about interracial friendship and candid conversations on race. They share about the safe, vulnerable space they created for honest artistry and the emotional impact of their play on diverse audiences, including heartfelt revelations from viewers and thought-provoking discussions that were sparked. This episode is an exploration of artistry, authenticity, and meaningful connections through the lens of theater. Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel     Marci J Duncan Instagram  Kerry Sandell  Instagram  Dissonance the play  Website  Instagram  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

On today's episode we're diving deep into the art of creative resilience and the power of community with two incredible guests: Creativity Coaches and Co-Hosts of The Spark File podcast Susan Blackwell and Laura Camien. These originating artists share their transformative journeys, from interpreting others' creative visions to defining their own. Laura emphasizes the importance of focusing on strengths and navigating fears to pivot toward joy and innovation in your craft. Susan offers invaluable advice on managing both your creative output and its promotion, reminding us that every artist must wear multiple hats.We'll explore personal stories of overcoming self-doubt, the significance of supportive relationships, and the courage to take creative risks. We dissect how to handle rejections, make thoughtful collaboration requests, and maintain an egalitarian approach in a hierarchical world.We unpack valuable lessons on persistence and tenacity, discuss the birth of "The Spark File", and encourage you to embrace your creative potential and pivot toward growth and fulfillment.  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Laura Camien and Susan Blackwell Website Instagram  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network 

On today’s episode we have an inspiring conversation with Author, Musician, and Coach for High-Performing Creatives Kate Kayaian. In this special dual episode, recorded in collaboration with Kate's podcast "Tales from the Lane," we dive deep into themes of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the ever-evolving nature of personal and professional growth. Kate shares her journey from a busy freelance cellist in Boston to making the brave decision to pivot her career towards coaching and entrepreneurship. We discuss the importance of setting aside personal time, even amidst the hustle, and how creative problem-solving can be boosted by shifting from a "no because" to a "yes if" mindset. We'll also touch on the challenges and emotions surrounding career pivots, the value of self-care, and the necessity of adaptability in the arts. You will hear about how the pandemic forced diversification but also the change in our artistic social circles. Ultimately this episode is about shifting your mindset, aligning with your personal goals, and blooming where you are planted. Let’s dive in.  A graduate of the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music, and a New World Symphony fellow,  Kate has performed in the world’s top concert halls, including Carnegie Hall, the Musikverein, Concertgebouw, and London’s Barbican and Royal Albert Halls. She has performed extensively as a soloist, chamber musician, and conductor, and was a member of the Grammy-award-winning group Boston Modern Orchestra Project for 20 years. She has worked with contemporary artists Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Josh Groban, and Peter Gabriel and can be heard on over 75 recordings, including her award-winning 2016 release, The French Cello.   Having pivoted into the online coaching space in 2019, she now helps other creatives expand their artistic vision and roles through her 9-month coaching program, The Creatives Leadership Academy as well as in 1:1 client work. She is the writer and host of the Podcast, Tales from The Lane, and was a contributing author to the 2023 best-selling book Business on Purpose. While she still occasionally performs as a cellist, she has taken up her baton again as Music Director of the Bermuda Philharmonic. She has been working this year to complete the manuscript for her first full-length book, Beyond Potential–due out in March of 2025. She lives with her husband Paul and their menagerie of cats, dogs, lizards, and tree frogs on the beautiful island of Bermuda.  Podcast Instagram  Podcast Patreon Podcast Merch  Podcast Youtube Channel   Kate Kayaian Website Instagram  Ayana Major Bey  Website  Instagram  Show Sponsors:  WeAudition: Get 25% off your membership when you use the code PIVOT, join at https://www.weaudition.com/ Host & Exec. Producer: Ayana Major Bey  Editor: Kieran Niemand  Theme Song: Lyrics co-written by Ayana Major Bey and Melissa Victor, with performance by Ayana Major Bey   Part of the Atabey & Co Network