We had the good fortune of connecting with Javier Garcia Daniel Spaulding and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Javier Garcia, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?

One of the most important decisions that contributed to our success with the Brown Sound Podcast, other than deciding to work for ourselves, was the choice to be authentic and genuine in our content. We realized the significance of sharing our personal stories and experiences as Indigenous and Latino individuals. By embracing our cultural backgrounds and using humor as a means to build community, we were able to connect with our listeners on a deeper level.

The decision to be authentic allowed us to create a platform where we could discuss the intricacies of the Indigenous and Latino experiences. We wanted to introduce our cultures to mainstream platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, providing a more accurate representation for Indigenous people and highlighting their perspectives. This commitment to authenticity resonated with our audience, as they appreciated the relatability and sincerity in our discussions.

Moreover, we recognized the importance of vulnerability. We wanted to inspire and uplift not only Latino and Indigenous voices but also all voices and experiences. By openly sharing our concerns, doubts, and even moments of imposter syndrome, we created a safe space for our listeners to connect and engage with us. It was truly heartwarming to receive messages from individuals who could relate to our experiences and were grateful for the perspectives we offered.

Additionally, the decision to embark on this podcasting journey together as best friends played a significant role in our success. Our strong bond and mutual support have turned our friendship into a brotherhood. Through Brown Sound, we have not only shared our own stories but also had the opportunity to meet and learn from a diverse range of guests. This collaborative approach broadened our understanding and allowed us to bring different lenses and perspectives to our discussions.

However, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges we faced due to our busy schedules. Juggling full-time jobs and the podcast required careful coordination and time management. Yet, the passion and enjoyment we derived from producing the show made all the effort worthwhile. We embraced these obstacles as part of the journey and remained committed to delivering quality content to our listeners.

While opportunities for monetization have emerged, we have prioritized the core principles of Brown Sound. Uplifting Latino and Indigenous voices has always been our central focus, and we want to ensure that any decisions we make align with this commitment. We believe in finding engaging ways to have important conversations and continue highlighting the multifaceted dimensions of our brown experience.

In conclusion, the decision to be authentic, genuine, and vulnerable while sharing our stories, along with the support of our friendship, has been instrumental in the success of the Brown Sound Podcast. We are grateful for the love and support from our listeners and the communities that have embraced our platform. As we continue on this journey, we remain dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering meaningful conversations.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
At Brown Sound Podcast, our art lies in the power of storytelling and creating a platform for authentic conversations. What sets us apart is our unique blend of Indigenous and Latino perspectives, humor, and personal experiences. We take pride in highlighting the intricacies of our cultures and communities, bridging gaps, and fostering understanding.

Getting to where we are today professionally has been a journey filled with challenges, but one that we have embraced wholeheartedly. It hasn’t been easy, especially with our busy schedules and the balancing act of full-time jobs alongside podcasting. However, our passion and dedication have propelled us forward.

To overcome these challenges, we have learned the importance of effective time management, coordination, and open communication. We constantly strive to find a balance and make the most of our available time to create quality content. The support and friendship we share have been invaluable in overcoming obstacles and staying motivated.

Along the way, we have learned numerous lessons. One of the key lessons is the significance of authenticity and vulnerability. By sharing our doubts, concerns, and personal stories, we have been able to connect with our audience on a deeper level. We have also realized the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and creating a space where diverse perspectives can be heard.

Our brand and story are rooted in the commitment to uplifting Latino and Indigenous voices. We want the world to know that Brown Sound Podcast is a platform for important conversations, cultural exchange, and community-building. Through our podcast, we aim to inspire, uplift, and promote understanding among different communities. Our ultimate goal is to continue highlighting the many dimensions of the brown experience and fostering meaningful connections.

In summary, our art lies in storytelling, bridging cultures, and fostering understanding. We are proud of our unique blend of Indigenous and Latino perspectives and the connections we have made with our listeners. While the journey has had its challenges, we have overcome them through dedication, time management, and the support of our friendship. Our story is one of authenticity, vulnerability, and a commitment to uplifting marginalized voices.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If our best friends was visiting Idaho for a week, We would make sure they have an incredible time experiencing the best of both areas.

Day 1: Start the trip in Caldwell by indulging in a delicious breakfast at Imeda’s or Tacos Mi Tierra, both renowned local spots known for their mouthwatering dishes. Afterward, we would visit the Whittenberger Planetarium for an immersive and educational experience. In the evening, we would enjoy some live music at Indian Creek Plaza.

Day 2: We would head to the Snake River Valley for a scenic adventure. We could go hiking or biking at the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge, where we can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and spot various wildlife. Afterward, we would visit a local winery such as Sawtooth Winery or Ste. Chapelle Winery for a tasting and a relaxing afternoon.

Day 3: We would take a day trip to Boise, Idaho’s capital city, which is about 30 minutes from Caldwell. In Boise, we could explore the Boise River Greenbelt, a scenic pathway perfect for walking or biking. For lunch, we could visit the vibrant Boise Farmers Market and enjoy some delicious local cuisine. In the evening, catching a performance at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival would be a fantastic cultural experience.

Day 4: Back in Caldwell, we would start the day by visiting the College of Idaho, a beautiful campus known for its historic buildings and serene atmosphere. Afterward, we could explore the local art scene by visiting the Caldwell Fine Arts Center or the West Valley Humane Society Art Gallery. For dinner, we would indulge in some mouthwatering Mexican cuisine at El Tenampa, Los Mariachis, Tacos el Rey or Amano.

Day 5: We would travel to Lapwai, where we can immerse ourselves in Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) culture. We would visit the Nez Perce National Historical Park and learn about the rich history and traditions of the tribe. In the evening, we could participate in a cultural event or powwow if there happens to be one during our visit.

Day 6: We would take a scenic drive to the nearby Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. We could go on a thrilling jet boat tour or hike one of the scenic trails for breathtaking views. The rugged beauty of Hells Canyon would provide an unforgettable experience.

Day 7: We would conclude the trip by enjoying a leisurely morning at Chief Looking Glass Park in Lapwai, where we can appreciate the natural beauty and reflect on the journey. We would have a final meal at a local restaurant like Donald’s Family Dining.

This itinerary combines the best of Caldwell and Lapwai, showcasing their unique cultural, natural, and culinary offerings. It allows for a diverse and memorable experience, providing a glimpse into the local communities and the beauty of Idaho’s landscapes.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In our Brown Sound Podcast journey, there are a few individuals and groups we want to dedicate our shoutout to. Firstly, we want to express our gratitude to our families who have always been a constant inspiration and support in everything we do. Their love and encouragement have played a significant role in our success.

We also want to give a special shoutout to the communities that have supported us throughout this podcasting endeavor. Their word-of-mouth promotion and engagement have helped us grow our following beyond what we initially expected. We are truly grateful for their continued support and the opportunity to connect with them.

Lastly, we would like to acknowledge all the listeners out there who have been a crucial part of our journey. Their feedback, messages, and positive responses have motivated us to keep pushing forward and creating meaningful content. It is their engagement and connection to our stories and perspectives that have made Brown Sound what it is today.

So, to our families, communities, and listeners, we extend our heartfelt thanks and recognition for being instrumental in our story.

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