Shameika Rhymes wears many hats, but every one of them comes with heart. In this episode, I sit down with the award-winning journalist, producer, and creator behind Check the Rhymes TV, Solebration, and the Ladies Edition podcast. We talk about how her storytelling roots began in television news, how she built lasting relationships with icons like Ananda Lewis and Will Downing, and what it really takes to run multiple media platforms as a team of one. From going viral to growing tired, Shameika shares what keeps her grounded in the work—and in her love of music.

We Chat About:

• The origins of Check the Rhymes TV and how a pandemic birthed a platform
• Her storytelling magic: from BET carpets to booking Barry Sanders
• Why Solebration bridges the gap between health, soul, and celebration
• How she builds rapport with guests and honors their vulnerability
• Her deep love for Michael Jackson, H-Town, Prince, and the Jacksons
• Why music always finds a way into every season of her life

About Shameika Rhymes:

Shameika Rhymes is an award-winning journalist, producer, and host based in North Carolina. A storyteller at heart, she’s the founder of Check the Rhymes TV, Solebration on BlackDoctor.org, and the Ladies Edition podcast. Known for her charisma, connection, and curiosity, she’s interviewed cultural icons across music, TV, and wellness—including Ananda Lewis, Ernie Hudson, and Method Man’s kids—often from behind the camera with just a mic and a dream. Whether she’s spotlighting public health or pop culture, Shameika leads with empathy, hustle, and a whole lot of heart.

Connect with Shameika:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mofochronicles/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@mofochronicles?xmt=AQGzQ1XdQVs1qnYOW5krTSIlOL2vXNIJlGTmFjq9JNETkek

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In this episode, I sit down with Theo Smith, the creative force behind the viral street interview series Please Don’t Irk Me. We talk about everything from growing up in a musical family and finding his voice in church, to building an online brand that blends humor, heart, and healing. Theo opens up about the mission behind his content, the realities of monetizing social media, and how he stays grounded on the tough days. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay yourself in a world that wants you to package your personality, this one’s for you.

We Chat About:

• How Please Don’t Irk Me went from a catchphrase to a full-fledged show
• His creative process behind filming, scripting, and editing every episode
• What he’s learned about monetizing content on TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook
• Why he always leads with joy, professionalism, and presence
• Navigating burnout and staying focused on the big picture
• The musical roots that still influence his content
• Artists he loves across gospel, R&B, pop, indie rock, and more

About Theo Smith:

Theo Smith is a Philadelphia-based creator, singer, and host of Please Don’t Irk Me, a viral street interview show known for its infectious energy, quick wit, and deep heart. A lifelong musician and natural performer, Theo uses his platform to spotlight everyday people, spread joy, and bring laughter to strangers across social media. Whether he’s cracking jokes on TikTok or sharing his love of music on YouTube, Theo leads with presence, playfulness, and purpose. He’s proof that with passion and persistence, a phone and a dream can take you far.

Connect with Theo:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pleasedontirkme/reels/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@pleasedontirkme?xmt=AQGzQ1XdQVs1qnYOW5krTSIlOL2vXNIJlGTmFjq9JNETkek

Latest YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dal7S1EhidE

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In this episode, I sit down with Jorge Valentine, an indie alt-rock artist who’s reshaping his sound—and his story—through emotional honesty and creative evolution. We talk about his move from Mexico to Milwaukee, how music helped him process a painful divorce, and why building systems has given him more freedom as an artist. From his early days navigating social anxiety to his current project VLNTYN, Jorge is proving that authenticity and strategy don’t have to be at odds. Whether you’re struggling to share your story or just trying to find your people, this one’s for anyone creating their own lane—one lyric, post, or open mic at a time.

We Chat About:

• The dark themes that shaped his music—and his healing
• Why he rebranded as VLNTYN and leaned into an alt-rock aesthetic
• The artists that shaped his sound: Bright Eyes, Brand New, Elliott Smith
• How he’s balancing emotional storytelling with digital marketing
• Navigating insecurity, social anxiety, and feeling “too old” to start
• His experience with fitness, discipline, and building creative systems
• The powerful shift from survival-mode songwriting to intentional creation

About Jorge Valentine:

Jorge Valentine is a Milwaukee-based musician who creates emotionally charged indie alt-rock under the name VLNTYN. Drawing inspiration from artists like Bright Eyes and Brand New, his music blends haunting melodies with introspective lyrics that explore grief, transition, and self-acceptance. A lifelong songwriter, Jorge is also a personal trainer and systems thinker, building the foundation of his artistry with intention and resilience. His latest releases reflect the duality of darkness and hope—and his commitment to connecting with listeners who’ve been through it too.

Connect with Jorge:

TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@vlntyntheband

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vlntyntheband

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vlntyntheband/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@vlntyntheband?xmt=AQF0szyPSTku72AL7Jnxd6D3P66Cf58CJVTt30NX2QGKIrw

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3OaHjmFCcak0xwFVxIEvbV?si=listbVHZS0GWK7rlBkPmOQ

Connect with Julian:

Check out the loves music podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In this episode, I sit down with Katlyn Cook, a creator whose journey through music, mental health, and entrepreneurship reveals the power of starting over. We talk about how losing—and reclaiming—her voice shaped her adult life, why stepping away from comfort was the first step toward healing, and how she built a podcast, a business, and a creative life from the ground up. Whether you’re rediscovering your passions or figuring out how to turn a hard season into a hopeful new chapter, Kat’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to begin again.

We Chat About:

• Her early love of singing and why she hid it for years
• How burnout and overworking masked deeper mental health struggles
• The dark turning point that pushed her to change her life
• Starting her podcast I NEED A FRIEND POD to create a healing space for others
• How she’s overcoming stage fright and performing with her band
• What daily habits keep her grounded as a creative entrepreneur
• Advice for anyone feeling stuck or scared to start over

About Katlyn Cook:

Katlyn Cook is a Colorado-based creator, podcaster, and musician who helps foster honest conversations around mental health and personal growth. After years of pushing her passions aside to meet others’ expectations, Kat reclaimed her voice—literally and figuratively—through singing, storytelling, and building community. She is the host of I NEED A FRIEND POD, a podcast focused on giving people a safe space to share their stories, and the founder of Cozy Porch Creations, a front-porch decorating business that blends her love of creativity, nature, and connection. Kat’s work is a celebration of resilience, authenticity, and choosing yourself, one imperfect day at a time.

Connect with Katlyn:

Podcast: https://pod.link/1805069875

Instagram: @katlyn.christine

Threads: @katlyn.christine

Connect with Julian:

Check out the loves music podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In this episode, I sit down with Raquel Liane, a powerhouse R&B singer-songwriter whose journey from musical theater to soulful self-expression is as compelling as her voice. We talk about how growing up in a military family shaped her resilience, why she left college to reclaim her narrative, and the emotional freedom she’s found in writing her own music. From the dance floor energy of her breakout hit “Circles” to the layered introspection of her newest single “Golden,” Raquel’s catalog is a testament to evolving artistry. Whether you’re stepping into your own voice or learning to trust your creative process, this one is for you.

We Chat About:

• Why she left a traditional musical theater path to create her own music
• The experience of being typecast and under-seen as a Puerto Rican woman in the theater world
• Her transition from interpreting other people’s art to writing from her own story
• The two-year evolution behind her standout single “Golden”
• How she balances the desire for perfection with the need to let music breathe
• What it’s like to be your own artist development team as an indie musician
• Her best advice for young artists figuring out who they are

About Raquel Liane:

Raquel Liane is a Puerto Rican American R&B singer-songwriter whose journey of self-expression through music has been a transformative evolution. With a background in musical theater, Raquel grew increasingly frustrated with being confined to a box. In her quest to break free from limitations, she began writing music that redefined her narrative. Known for her hit dance track “Circles,” Raquel’s sound has matured into a rich blend of electronic pop and soulful R&B. Her debut EP Finding Love In Real Time marked a pivotal shift in her artistry, exploring themes of self-discovery and emotional growth. Whether it’s crafting traditional R&B or infusing Latin elements into tracks like “Chillando” and “Sera Amor,” Raquel’s music reflects the full spectrum of her heritage and humanity.

Connect with Raquel:

Instagram / Threads / TikTok / Facebook: @raquellianemusic

Streaming platforms: linktr.ee/raquelliane

Connect with Julian:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In this episode, I sit down with singer-songwriter Dareen, an emerging R&B and pop artist known for her moody, ethereal sound and deeply emotional songwriting. Born in Gambia with Polish and Lebanese roots, and currently based in Greece, Dareen brings a multicultural lens to everything she creates. We talk about the tension between making art for yourself versus making it for the algorithm, what it feels like to have a song stuck inside you, and why she’s not rushing to define her sound. If you’ve ever felt like a late bloomer, or like your creativity keeps calling you back, this one’s for you.

We Chat About:

• How Britney Spears and a childhood of moving between countries shaped Dareen’s musical identity
• Her 10-year hiatus from music—and the moment she decided to come back
• What it feels like to carry a song inside you for 13 years before releasing it
• Why she’s rejecting the pressure to “productize” her creativity
• How her podcast and music collective, Hymn of the Goddess, uplifts women artists worldwide
• The unique challenges (and gifts) of starting a music career in your 30s
• Why she believes music should come from alignment—not just hustle

About Dareen:

Dareen is an emerging R&B and pop artist known for blending moody melodies with soft, evocative vocals. Her music delves deep into themes of love and loss, creating a soundscape that resonates with listeners on an emotional level. With Polish and Lebanese roots, born in the vibrant Gambia and currently living in Greece after relocating from London, Dareen brings a rich and multicultural background to her unique sound.

Connect with Dareen:

Instagram: @dareen.mp3

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/darxxn

Connect with Julian:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In the very first episode of the “loves music” podcast, I sat down with Philadelphia-based artist M11SON – singer, songwriter, and co-founder of the Sacred artist collective — for a raw, thoughtful, and at times hilarious conversation about the realities of being a modern-day creative. We talk about what it’s like to carry songs in your chest, why making “bad” art is necessary, and how he’s managed to write thousands of songs while also crafting books, scripts, and full-length albums. Whether you’re an artist, a writer, or someone trying to reconnect with your creative self, this one’s for you.

We Chat About:

• The moment Eminem’s “Rock Bottom” made him feel less alone—and sparked his desire to do the same for others
• How writing songs in a college laundry room led to a lifelong creative ritual
• What it means to feel creatively “burdened” and how M11SON channels that into his art
• Why writer’s block is a myth—and the daily habit he recommends for every artist
• How Sakred, his artist collective, helps musicians build cohesive, story-driven projects
• The link between emotional intensity and artistic output (and why you can create from joy too)
• His predictions for the next wave of music—and why stadium rock might be making a comeback

About M11SON:

M11SON (pronounced Mason) is a Philadelphia native who works in multiple mediums of art and always in multiple genres. His work was used by companies like, Nike, HBOMax, Paramount, Amazon Prime, The PGA Tour, 23 and Me, Fox Sports and DC. He's also run some of the city's premier studios recently hosting acts like Brent Faiyaz, Polo G and Lil Durk . His sights in 2025 are set in growing his artist moniker M11SON and his collective of producers, writers and artists known as SAKRED.

Connect with M11SON: https://www.instagram.com/m11son/

Connect with Julian:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL