In this episode, Kymone Hinds interviews Erica Keith an artist and entrepreneur. Erica shares her background in fine arts and graphic design, her professional journey, and her transition to starting her own business, Black Foward. She discusses her unexpected experience working in a prison's art department, her early passion for art, and the influence of mentors and family. Erica emphasizes the intersection of art and faith, viewing her creative work as a ministry. She advises listeners to nurture their creative gifts, stay true to their passions, and seek supportive communities.

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Follow Black Forward on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blackforwardshop/?hl=en

Visit our website: http://monetizeyourministrypodcast.com/

Visit Erica Keith’s website: https://www.ericakeith.com/

Visit Black Forward’s website: https://blackforwardshop.com/

Show Notes

0:00 Intro

1:03 Erica's background in graphic design

Discussion of Erica Keith's background in graphic design, her education, and her work experience.

2:11 Erica's journey as an artist and entrepreneur
Details about Erica's career progression, including her time at Hallmark, teaching at her alma mater, and starting her own t-shirt and apparel business.

4:09 Erica's experience working in a prison
Erica shares her experience working in a prison's graphic design studio and art department during her college years.

5:42 Art, creativity, and ministry
Discussion about Erica's experience working with the inmate population and the intersection of art, creativity, and ministry.

9:09 Erica's interest in graphic design
Exploration of Erica's early interest in art and the influence of her parents on her artistic development.

12:17 Developing artistic skills
Conversation about whether artistic skills are innate or can be developed through practice and passion.

13:19 Discovering graphic design
Erica's journey to discovering graphic design and her decision to pursue it as a major.

16:51 Support and encouragement
Recognition of the impact of supportive mentors and family members in Erica's artistic journey.

17:52 The intersection of art and calling
Discussing how being an artist intersects with one's calling as a person of faith.

20:02 Art as a form of ministry
Realizing that creating art is a form of ministry and a part of one's calling as a believer.

21:25 Reactions to the art
Feedback received from people about the impact and personal connections with the art created.

25:25 The Birth of Black Forward
The inspiration and motivation behind starting a business to highlight black and brown people's voices through apparel.

29:35 Overcoming fears and stepping out
The challenges and confidence-building process of starting a business and sharing one's story.

33:32 The importance of sharing the business story
The significance of sharing the business story to connect with customers on a deeper level.

33:50 Showcasing art pieces
Displaying and discussing art pieces created during various professional experiences.

36:32 Designing Cards for Black Paper Party
Erica discusses her work designing Christmas cards for Black Paper Party, including fun Black Santa designs.

37:47 Transitioning to Full-Time Entrepreneurship
After losing her job, Erica discusses her decision to pursue entrepreneurship full-time, including the financial challenges and support from her husband.

41:03 Joining The Waymaker Change Group
Erica shares how she was hired by The Waymaker Change Group and the financial support she received, highlighting the importance of supportive relationships in business.

43:40 Building Clientele and Collaborative Relationships
Erica explains how she builds and maintains client relationships through collaboration and referrals, emphasizing the value of a supportive business community.

48:29 Navigating the Business Aspects of Art
Erica reflects on the various business aspects of entrepreneurship, from marketing to tax considerations, and the importance of building a supportive network.

51:47 The Role of Faith and Support in Business
Erica discusses the role of faith, support from her husband, and the importance of looking back on past successes to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

54:49 Connecting with Erica Keith's Business
Listeners are directed to Erica Keith's website, ericakeith.com, to find her portfolio and merchandise, and are encouraged to follow her on social media.

57:41 Business Coaching
Discussion on building a career and business based on artistic skills and passion.

58:10 Conclusion and Call to Action
Encouragement to apply the gained knowledge and increase income and impact through the Monetize Your Ministry podcast.

58:25 Closing
Information about the Monetize Your Ministry podcast and a call to share the episode for wider impact.