In this episode of Behind the Creative, Dr. Kristelle (@drkristelle) sits down with multi-talented artist, media personality, and rising musician Norman Wakefield (@allayemusic) to explore what it really means to build an authentic career in the entertainment industry.

From reality TV appearances on Maury and Tyra Banks to hosting on Atlanta’s Power 104.9 and launching his music career as Al Laye, Norman shares his journey of resilience, reinvention, and the courage to create something real in a digital age.

This conversation is a masterclass in authenticity, creativity, and building a brand with heart. Norman’s story reminds us that authenticity isn’t optional if you want to last in entertainment, and it challenges you to reflect: Where are you hiding in your work, and what would it look like if you showed up as the real you?

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Connect with Norman Wakefield: Instagram

Connect with Dr. Kristelle: Instagram

Learn more about The Creative Corporate: www.thecreativecorporate.com

Coop Sleep Goods – better sleep starts here. Get 20% off your first purchase or 10% off repeat purchases: Coop Sleep Goods

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Lead Producer: Dexter "Furg" Fugerson

Music Produced by: Devin O’Bannon / Black Irish Entertainment

Artist: Devin O’Bannon

Musician, actor, model, and creative visionary Joseph Cox shares how his love for music and storytelling evolved into The Artistry Collective—a movement designed to bring creatives together through vulnerability, authenticity, and collaboration. We talk about navigating mental health as a creator, redefining leadership through empathy, and turning passion into impact.

Joseph opens up about his journey from imposter syndrome to influence, the lessons he’s learned in building community from the ground up, and how his upcoming EP reflects both his evolution as an artist and as a leader. If you’ve ever questioned where you belong or how to find your tribe, this conversation will help you remember that community isn’t found—it’s built.

This episode is brought to you by The Creative Corporate: www.thecreativecorporate.com

Better sleep starts here with Coop Sleep Goods and 20% off your first purchase or 10% off your repeat purchases: http://coopsleepgoods.com/drkristelle

Connect with Dr. Kristelle (https://www.instagram.com/drkristelle)

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Connect with Joseph Cox:

Website: www.thejosephwayne.com

Instagram: @joeycox91

Email: Joseph.Cox91@gmail.com

IMDb: www.imdb.me/josephwayne Representation - UWM: https://www.ursulawiedmannmodels.com/portfolio/talent-men/men/2754292/joseph-wayne

Website: The Artistry Collective - www.theartistrycollectiveatl.com Instagram: @theartistrycollectiveatl

Greenhouse Arts and Media - www.greenhouseproductions.com/programs/atlanta-connect/

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Lead Producer: Dexter "Furg" Fugerson

Music Produced by: Devin O’Bannon / Black Irish Entertainment

Artist: Devin O’Bannon

What does it really take to build a creative business when your identity is part of the story?

On this episode of Behind the Creative, Shahlayo Ranson, host of The Ultimate Blerd podcast, shares how his love and passion for anime, sci-fi, and content production turned into a business. We talk about tangibly building something from the ground up, finding the white space in a crowded market, and using your unique perspective as fuel rather than a limitation.

Shahlayo opens up about moments of being “the only one” in certain rooms, but more importantly, how he used that experience to stay authentic while creating a brand that resonates far beyond himself. If you’re ready to stop waiting for a seat at the table and start building your own, this conversation will give you both the inspiration and the strategy to make it happen.

This episode is brought to you by The Creative Corporate: www.thecreativecorporate.com

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Lead Producer: Dexter "Furg" Fugerson

Music Produced by: Devin O’Bannon/Black Irish Entertainment

Artist: Devin O’Bannon