The Artist Pivot

• S7 Ep 9: Action Creates Clarity with Emily-Jane Sarroff

  “It's a partnering of understanding and developing awareness whilst also taking action to build that belief in yourself, because action will build belief.” -Emily-Jane Sarroff I am joined on this episode by Australian brand artist Emily-Jane Sarroff for an inspiring conversation about the winding journey of embracing your creative self. Emily opens up about her decade-long path, from nearly pursuing a career in art to following a more "practical" route in architecture, only to realize years later that her soul longed for creativity. She shares raw moments of burnout, self-discovery, and the pivotal decision to leave behind the traditional markers of success to reconnect with her artistic roots.Emily takes us behind-the-scenes of her personal and professional pivots, from building—and then nearly walking away from—a successful business, to embarking on a solo adventure in Canada to rebuild her self-trust. Through honest reflection, she explores the power of asking “what if,” learning to redefine success, and finding daily joy—sometimes in the simplest things like watering flowers or supportive conversations with loved ones.Whether you’re an artist questioning your own path, or simply someone navigating change, Emily’s story is filled with wisdom, fresh perspective, and encouragement. Get ready for an episode that’s all about trusting your instincts, taking messy action, and finding fulfillment by leading with your creativity.Podcast NewsletterPodcast InstagramPodcast PatreonPodcast MerchPodcast Youtube Channel  Podcast Buy Me a Coffee Get in touch:Emily-Jane SarroffInstagramLinkedIn Ayana Major BeyWebsiteInstagram 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 

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• S7 Ep 8: Balancing The Energies of Artistry and Entrepreneurship with Jazelle Foster

  “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

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• S7 Ep 7: Storytelling, Menopause, and Owning Your Power as an Artist with Satori Shakoor

  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

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• S7 Ep 6: Finding Joy in Not Knowing: Pia Leichter on Creative Pivots, Trust, and Living Fully

  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

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• Minisode: The Power of Beyoncé: 3 Reflections from Cowboy Carter Tour

  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

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