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

Dusta, appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

My journey in podcasting has been an incredible mix of trial and error, curiosity, and a passion for storytelling. Initially, I learned by diving into the world of podcasts—listening to a range of shows across various genres, which gave me insights into different styles, interview techniques, and production choices.

Knowing what I know now, I realize that seeking mentorship earlier could have significantly sped up my learning process. Connecting with established podcasters for guidance, tips, and feedback would have helped me avoid some common pitfalls and refine my craft much faster.

As for essential skills, I found that excellent communication and active listening are at the core of successful podcasting. Being able to engage with guests, ask the right questions, and create a comfortable atmosphere for sharing stories is pivotal. Additionally, technical skills in audio editing and understanding the right tools for podcast production were crucial for producing high-quality episodes.

Of course, I encountered obstacles along the way. Time management was a significant hurdle, as balancing podcasting with other responsibilities often felt overwhelming. Additionally, self-doubt and the fear of not being good enough occasionally clouded my creativity. However, each challenge brought valuable lessons that contributed to my growth.

Overall, the journey of learning to podcast has been deeply rewarding, and I’m excited to continue evolving in this space.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a passionate entrepreneur, domestic violence survivor, and single mother. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has shaped me into the resilient and determined individual I am today.
I’ve always been a creative soul, finding solace in building and nurturing. However, my life took a drastic turn when I found myself trapped in a cycle of domestic violence. This harrowing experience ignited a fire within me, propelling me to break free and forge a new path.
Determined to create a better future for myself and my children, I embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship. I realized the immense power of collaboration and the critical gap between startup and success. With this insight, I founded Down Home Dirt Podcast, a platform dedicated to empowering fellow entrepreneurs, particularly women and survivors of domestic violence.

At Down Hime Dirt Podcast, we provide a comprehensive range of education, connections and inspiration. Our offerings include:
Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals and build strong professional relationships.
Resource Sharing: Access a wealth of tools, templates, and industry insights to streamline your business operations.
Collaborative Workshops: Participate in interactive sessions to learn new skills and share experiences.

We understand the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs, especially those from marginalized communities. Our mission is to bridge the gap between startup and success by:
Providing Practical Support: We offer tangible solutions to common business problems.
Fostering a Supportive Community: We create a safe and empowering environment for entrepreneurs to thrive.
Inspiring Resilience: We share our own experiences to motivate and uplift others.

What Sets Us Apart:
What truly distinguishes us is our unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and creating a positive impact. We believe in the power of collaboration, empathy, and perseverance. We’re not just a podcast; we’re a community.

If you’re an entrepreneur seeking support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging, I invite you to join our community. Together, we can overcome challenges, achieve our goals, and create a brighter future.
Remember:
* You are not alone.
* Your dreams are valid.
* Your resilience is your superpower.
Let’s build something extraordinary together.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

The Chamber of Commerce, Launch your City and the many classes available at the local community college.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

I think that would be getting to express myself, heal and reinvent myself from all the pain and suffering I had to endure to get where I am today.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downhomedirtpodcast/profilecard/?igsh=enh2dDlsaXhpbGVu
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14of7tHJR7W/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dusta-rhymes-153914137?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@downhomedirtpodcast?si=Rocab5RD_VH49alY

Image Credits
Makayla Autumn Photography