What it Means to be an American

In this solo episode, I get real about the traps creatives fall into when we are scared to start. I used to think a career in the arts was frivolous. Then I left tech, started releasing music before I felt ready, and committed to one lane: art with social impact. That path led to American Dream winning the Hollywood Independent Music Award for Best Social Impact Song. The lesson: pick something, get good at it, and put the work out before it feels perfect.

Feeling discouraged? You're not alone. In this solo episode, I talk about why so many creatives are feeling stuck in today's oversaturated world and how I've learned to keep going anyway. From leaving behind my career in government consulting to pursuing music in Los Angeles, I share my thoughts on algorithms, comparison, authenticity, and why your creativity is worth protecting. If you've been questioning your path, this episode is your reminder to keep creating and keep believing.

In this solo episode, Sumi shares one of the biggest mindset shifts she's had since moving to Los Angeles to pursue music: success isn't built alone. Drawing from her own experiences, she unpacks the three pillars she believes every creative needs to build a sustainable career—collaboration, community, and craft. Sumi talks about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of getting out from behind the screen and into real-life creative spaces, and why the strongest opportunities often come through genuine relationships. Sumi also shares practical advice on protecting your time, following through on opportunities, and creating from a place of impact rather than pressure. This conversation is a reminder that while talent and hard work matter, it's the people you build along the way that make the journey and the dream worth it.

Hannah Avison is a chart-topping songwriter, music activist, and community builder whose work has impacted the music industry both in and out of the studio. With songwriting credits alongside artists like Marshmello, Lauv, Ava Max, Fletcher, and Jordin Sparks, Hannah has built a career rooted in creativity, connection, and advocacy. In this episode, Hannah shares her journey through the music industry, her work with The 100 Percenters, and how she's built a thriving community to support her career. We also talk about vulnerability in songwriting, finding your authentic voice, and blowing up on social media. This conversation is for anyone looking to build a successful creative career and have more fun while doing so!

Thai Long Ly is a Los Angeles-based producer, audio engineer, mixer and bassist with over two decades in the industry and has worked with artists like Pink, Dionne Warwick, Robbie Williams, Elle King and Postmodern Jukebox. In this conversation we get into what it actually looks like to build a career in music. Tai shares how a near death experience at 12 shaped his entire philosophy on life, how he sparked a mentorship with Earth Wind and Fire's Al McKay by running up to him in a parking lot, and what finally brought him back to playing the bass after a 15 year break. We also get into fear, imposter syndrome, presence, acceptance, and why knowing why you're doing something is the only real career advice that matters.