Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jephthah Schlingensiepen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jephthah , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

My life has had many twists and turns. I was always creative and working on music outside of my regular day to day activities – but it was very much shrouded. I didn’t feel like people would understand and I was worried about judgement. Why? I don’t know. My own fear and sadness…negative beliefs about self. All that changed end of 2020 when I decided to develop my craft more intensely, intentionally, and with a focus on sharing it with others. I was worried and every release felt nerve wracking at first, but by now, I feel more free than ever. The confidence found in my creative lane has also spilled over into all other aspects of my life, which has been a huge strength.

Jephthah , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My mission is so provide safety, connection, and continue to develop and share art that people can relate to and enjoy. The beautiful thing is that my professional realm as a social worker and my creative work combine perfectly. No experience is wasted…my own journey…past and current. I used to think my past was a barrier, but I’ve come to realize that without those moments, I wouldn’t be here right now. Those “barriers,” have become part of my greatest skill set due to the knowledge and understanding now. I work with clients the same way I work with other creatives. We form a relationship, grow an understanding of one another, and move forward towards a goal. In one aspect of my day it may be finding adequate housing for someone. In another moment it may be working collaboratively through a chorus…working until the notes are hit just right.

As it comes to my art and recording music – I aim to release much more. That means videos, sounds, other content. I look to collaborate with other artists and develop live sets that will further draw you into my world and the experiences that shaped what you see today. If you listen closely, you can’t walk away without some sage wisdom that I have picked up on throughout my journey. It is always interwoven in my lyrics. All artists and creatives looking to work with me – hit me!

Whether at work or busy creating – I want safety and connection to be associated with the name yefta – should always be spelled lowercase for myself and those around me staying down til the come up.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Of course! My goal is to continue creating great art that comes from the soul while connecting with other people who are on their journey! It doesn’t even have to be artistic in nature – I love meeting new people and learning from all of the experience. As it pertains to writing lyrics and music – I believe the best work comes forth from true and lived experiences. Finally, I love encouraging and inspiring others to find what calls them and to pursue it relentlessly.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Not everything that glitters is gold. The next Nas-type talent could be your neighbor….Pay attention to people’s gifts and encourage them. Take time to acknowledge someone’s talents or gifts and tell them how significant it is to you. If someone’s art impacts me, I make a point of letting them know. My friend SJ Hazim once told me, “People want to be seen so they can be known and loved.” I can know and love infinitely! Show me what you’re working on – if I can support you on that mission, I will. And I wish more people maintained that lane.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/yeftasmind
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/yefta785
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/yeftasmind
• Twitter: @yeftasmind
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@yeftasmind?si=XUe0ANTp0l8Q1gsQ

Image Credits
Image taken by John McClusky.