The Hustling Artist's Podcast

Swing Nation: Kendrick Mitchell & Jahir Hipps

Kendrick Mitchel and Jahir Hipps are Swings in the current production of MJ the Musical First National Tour.  Kendrick plays the role of Jermaine, Tito, Quincy, Nick, Rob, Joe and Dave. Jahir covers Jermaine, Jackie, Tito, Quincy, Nick, Alejandro and Dave.  They join the podcast today to  discuss the job of a swing and how to navigate playing so many different roles, and sometimes 2 on the same day. They also discuss their respective careers, the audition process pre and post covid, managing their anxieties and egos which helps them stay grounded in the work they do.

Willie Shaw Jr

In this episode of The Hustling Artist’s Podcast, host Mesia Austin sits down with professional boxer Willie Shaw, Jr.  from Oakland, Ca.  Willie has had 20 bouts professional bouts including Josue Vargas and Trevor Thompson.  We discuss the art of Boxing including training routines, the pressures of high level performance as well as the mental and emotional component of competing. We also discuss the state of boxing and the recent YouTube boxing sensation.

Ethan, Jalen and Josiah

In this episode of The Hustling Artist’s Podcast, host Mesia Austin sits down with child performers, Josiah Benson, Jaylen Hunter, Ethan Joseph and their mothers Felicia Benson, Crystelle Jones and Ava Joseph to highlight the careers and experiences of these young artists as well as the sacrifice parents make to make sure their kids are able to follow their dreams.  While Josiah, Jaylen and Ethan share their daily experiences being young working actors, their parents highlight their experiences in supporting these young artists.  Ethan is currently working on Terrence Blanchard’s, Fire Shut up in my bones. Jaylen Hunter is currently working on the “Michael” biopic and Josiah Benson is working on “MJ the Musical” first national tour. Episode Artwork by @justinbarbin

Matt Owen

In this episode of The Hustling Artist Podcast with, host Mesia Austin; tuba player Matt Owen founder of Eclectic Tuba plays full time with Admiral Phunk Brass Band Opposite Box and Andy Frasco and the UN.   Matt is a leading innovator in electronic music for wind instruments and has created a unique avenue as he performs 250+ shows per year. He has collaborated with Galactic, Keller Williams, The Wailers, Better than Ezra and many more. Matt is also a member of the 129th Army Band and has worked with several Drum and Bugle Corps including the Cavaliers (Since 2017 - Present), Spirit of Atlanta and Pacific Crest.

Chloe Davis

In this episode of the Hustling Artist's Podcast, with host Mesia Austin; Chloe Davis, a New York based Choreographer, Dancer, Actor and Author stops by to discuss her career.  She shares how her career started and how she transitioned into theater, tv and film from concert dance (4:35).  Chloe also shares the importance of Philadanco and Camille A. Brown in her artistic development (9:30)and the importance of making yourself valuable by using your platform of talents (15:00)  Last Chloe discusses how her book, "The Queens English" came to be by finding language that make people feel validated, affirmed and represented (21:00).