We recently connected with Sauntymia Robinson and have shared our conversation below.
Sauntymia, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
My father taught me in 6th grade to A.A.G.I.: adapt, adopt, and get involved. This acronym started because I was very reserved as a kid, and though in an accelerated program for the second year with flying colors for grades, my educators were adamant that I was not flourishing at the rate I should’ve been, not because my grades slipped or my behavior suddenly changed, but because I CHOSE not to speak. I will also add that at that time I was one of few that looked like me. Once I started talking? That’s a story for a different day. Needless to say, I was left alone.
I had to learn early that while I may be one of few, the first step to being effective is to remember I DESERVE to be in the room, just like everyone else. The second step requires you to understand that gaining knowledge about who you’re around and being authentically yourself should happen simultaneously. The third step is to remain focused on why you are there and what you’re hoping to accomplish. If you can keep these 3 steps in mind, it won’t matter what room you walk into. Be the thermostat instead of the thermometer. The thermometer measures the temperature that is present. The thermostat sets and maintains the temperature.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My husband, Chris, and I own Artistry Soul Collective. ASC is a Fort Worth-based company where we highlight R&B and Neo-Soul artists in the metroplex. We do this two ways: we provide a platform for artists in the area to share about what inspires them most and about their upcoming projects, we also curate events in Fort Worth, TX filled with live performances, great food, visual art, local vendors, and signature cocktails! Be sure to visit our website for details on upcoming events!(www.artistrysoulcollective.com)
What excites me most about the work we do is the opportunity to connect with others. It’s never just about the music, art, food and drinks. While all of that is AMAZING, that is the fruit as a result of the growth that we’re able to witness within the community.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I’d say the three skills that have been most impactful have been organization, networking, and analyzing.
For those of you who are early in your journey, I would say to start working through these skills immediately. Before the team comes, before more clientele comes, and before the collaboration opportunities present themselves. Organize not only your documents but your time. Be intentional when managing your projects and use all of the resources available at your fingertips to do so. If you currently have a team, embrace constructive criticism on how you can better communicate/organize your vision.
Network. Network. NETWORK! It doesn’t always have to be a huge conference. Find events in your city that interest you most and align with your goals. Be interested in the other individual’s story more than you’re interested in sharing about you. And always follow up after to learn more about them and how you can work together to make something great!
Truly take a look into your data. Take note of what’s worked and what hasn’t (sales, views, feedback, etc.) so that you can make informed decisions for your business.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
If you or someone you know is an R&B artist or musician in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, reach out to us! We’d love to learn more about you!
We are actively building our collective of community partners. If our mission aligns with yours and you’re interested in collaborating with us on future projects, you can contact us via email ([email protected]).
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artistrysoulcollective.com
- Instagram: @artistry_soul_collective
- Facebook: Artistry Soul Collective
- Youtube: Artistry Soul Collective
- Other: TikTok: @artistrysoulcollective
Image Credits
The Vibery Session Photos: VIBEMedia LLC (@vibemedia_llc)
The Velvet Chair Experience Photos: Kasper Photography (@kasperphotography1)
Artists Featured:
Jo. Camp @jo._camp)
Ariel Campbell (@ariecamp5)
Jireh Campbell (@jirehcampbell)
Caiah Campbell (@caiah.campbell)
C.V.M. (@officiallycvm)
Lawyer Turner (@lawyerturner)
Carren Allen (@carren_sings)
Tamerick Brazzell (@singtamerickb)
CJ from the 98 (@cjfromthe98)
