M'Balou Camara

Aspiring podcaster and artist M’Balou Camara interviews me for a special Maryland Art Summit 2025 recording.M’Balou is a former student, current colleague, and emerging podcaster preparing to launch “Heart Reflex,” highlighting voices of the African diaspora in the arts.Our conversation—recorded live at Prince George’s Community College—explores our journey from a classroom connection at UMBC to ongoing collaboration, mutual mentorship, and co-leadership in the creative community.I share insights from my nearly 20 years as a podcaster and host of “The Truth in This Art,” focusing on the value of storytelling, reciprocity, and building a living archive for Baltimore’s creative voices.We discuss how authentic conversations, trust, and relational support are central to my approach as a host and educator. I break down strategies for fostering access, avoiding gatekeeping, and sustaining creative independence amid funding challenges.Audience questions spark a discussion on practical advice for new podcasters, evolving media formats, and lessons learned from both successes and setbacks.We close with a rapid-fire “reflex round,” reflecting on curiosity, inspiration, and the role of freedom in creative work.Topics Covered:Evolving from instructor-student roles to creative peer collaborationBuilding and sustaining community-rooted podcast archivesThe ethics and art of listening, trust, and relationship-buildingNavigating independence, institutional pressure, and artistic integrityMutual mentorship and non-hierarchical support in the artsPractical strategies for launching and growing a podcastAdapting to changes in media and the podcasting landscapeCentering and uplifting underrepresented stories and artistsReflections on curiosity, inspiration, and freedom through art📍Discover more at thetruthinthisart.com or follow me on Instagram. Stay tuned for M’Balou Camara’s upcoming podcast “Heart Reflex” 📸 credit @teencudi