This project reflects my commitment to professional development and building a robust network that supports my long-term goals in the music and arts industries. By seeing and talking to real people that do what I potentially want to do, and taking their advice, I've gained an inside look at the industry.
A successful podcast requires effective communication at every stage: before, during, and after the interview. Initially, I crafted a thoughtful email to reach out, and once accepted, I made sure to promptly coordinate a time to meet. Prior to the interview, I sent my questions to the interviewees, ensuring they were well-prepared. Afterward, I followed up with thank-you notes and informed them that I would share the final videos once they were posted. Additionally, editing the videos to ensure they effectively convey the intended message to the audience has been a key focus of my process.
Filming and recording sound were completely new to me. I purchased new equipment for this project and made sure to train myself on how to use it properly. I remember having a nightmare where I couldn’t use my equipment correctly and one of my electronics ran out of battery, and that experience motivated me to be extra prepared in this new field of visual and audio production.
The House of Blues Cleveland celebrates African American culture through its distinctive blend of folk art, music, and design. This celebration is evident in the venue's folk art collection, which includes works from around the country, reflecting the rich traditions and histories of African American communities. Additionally, the Foundation Room, an exclusive VIP area, features art and artifacts inspired by the founders' personal travels and devotion to Eastern spirituality, creating a diverse and inclusive atmosphere. I included lots of this art in the introduction of the House of Blues video.
I've put this entire project together by myself with guidance from my mentor. I've had to wear all the hats, including communication, preparation, research, and execution.
I made sure to arrive prepared and present myself well for each interview. I respected my interviewees' time by being punctual and consistently responded to emails in a timely manner. After each interview, I sent thoughtful follow-up messages to express my gratitude for their time and insights.
I fostered effective teamwork with my interviewees through open, honest communication and a mutual respect for each other's time.
I worked with unfamiliar technology, including setting up a podcast microphone, using a camera and tripod, and navigating software for capturing and editing content.