When we think of creativity, we often think about the craftsmanship of painters, musicians, and writers. But, for creative director Justin "JayNorm" Norman, his journey as a creative professional started with strategic thinking and cracking the code of how people and systems work. His approach of people-first creativity has yielded a path from college dropout to signing a music production deal to becoming one of the most in-demand creative directors in advertising. Today, he gets to blend his passions as Global Creative Director with Spotify and co-founder of music sync service Verse and Hook.
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About Becoming Better
We share deep conversations with extraordinary ordinary humans on the journey to be better. We explore who we are, where we've been, where we're going, and who we're becoming to get there.
“Does a fish love to swim? No- it’s just what he does.” That’s how audio engineer Art Merriweather III described his early relationship with music. Since showing signs of giftedness at seven years old, Art has engaged in a lifelong dance with music that would carry him around the world many times over, like a favorite playlist played on repeat. Over the past eight years, that dance has included work with CeeLo Green, Fantasia, Tove Lo, Mayer Hawthorne, Teddy Riley, and many more.
Read MoreWhen former PR strategist Danielle Smith Parker launched Detroit Maid, she hoped to create a remedy for a deep personal pain: “Where can I find a reliable, professional, on-demand cleaning service?” Six years later, she’s found that entrepreneurship wasn’t just the solution for a messy home. Instead, it’s proven to be just what the doctor ordered for her physical, emotional, and mental health.
Read MoreGrowing up in Metro-Detroit, Dave Webber was fascinated with how things worked. His passion for understanding what makes people and products come together led him to cofound some of the world's most exciting tech companies, all while homeschooling his kids on a farm and helping deliver safe water in Haiti.
Read MoreInspired by the sounds of Marvin Gaye and The Clark Sisters, Darnell Kendricks grew up dreaming of success in Motown. Yet when he took the giant leap of faith to move from his native Northern California to Detroit, he embarked on what has become a lifelong journey of artistic exploration and soulful connections.
Read MoreAccording to communication expert Lindsey Walenga, authentic communication is the ultimate superpower. Even more remarkable is finding your truth and learning how to stand unapologetically.
Read MoreHow does a small-town kid from Wisconsin become one of the most influential change agents in America's greatest comeback city? That's the unlikely story of Matthew Roling.
Read MoreThe unshakeable bond between Roderica and Francina James is a testiment to the power of family and the lessons passed down from a dynamic mother. Born just 13 months apart, they’ve built a remarkable life of love and laughter as sisters, friends, and business partners. From equipping youth with life skills across the country to developing The Historic Cochrane House, a premier bed and breakfast brand in Michigan, they have shared their unique brand of warmth and intimacy with hundreds.
Read MoreKenny Watson is half-man, half-amazing. As one of Detroit's premier singer-songwriters, his artistry has blessed hearts and souls across the world. In this episode, Kenny discusses his journey as a multi-dimensional creative, the challenge of balancing multiple careers and family, and the burden of chasing purpose.
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