EP 33: How Business, Creativity, and Community Co-Exist with Daiyawn Smith

Episode 33: How Business, Creativity, and Community Co-Exist with Daiyawn Smith
Hosted by Katelyn Calhoun

This week on Crafted Connections, we’re diving deep into the intersection of business, creativity, and community with filmmaker, creator, and all-around good-vibes human Daiyawn Smith — founder of Dai In & Dai Out Productions.

Daiyawn’s story is one of imagination, consistency, and heart. From early influences that sparked his love of storytelling to building a brand rooted in authenticity, excellence, and connection, he shares what it means to be both a creative and a business owner in today’s world.

In this conversation, we talk about the mindset shifts that come with growing as a professional—from learning to raise your rates to setting healthy boundaries—and how community fuels sustainable creativity. Daiyawn also shares insight into his latest project, an indie reality-style dating series filmed in Indianapolis, Indy Amor, plus how his corporate work is evolving to center more community impact.

This episode is equal parts inspiration and real talk for anyone navigating what it means to grow, learn, and thrive as a creative entrepreneur.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
🎥 How Daiyawn built Dai In & Dai Out Productions and the meaning behind the name
💼 Lessons on pricing, boundaries, and professionalism in the creative industry
💡 Why curiosity and community are key to long-term growth
❤️ The importance of collaboration and surrounding yourself with people who build you up
🌆 How corporate creativity and community engagement can co-exist beautifully

You Can Connect with Daiyawn:
📸 Instagram (Biz): @daiin_n_daiout

📸 Instagram (Personal): @sir_shoot_alot

🌐 Website: https://daiinanddaiout.squarespace.com/

Need Help Shaping a Story That Actually Feels Like You?
Book a Story Strategy Session.

Whether you're launching something new, reworking your brand, or just feeling a little foggy on how to communicate with your people, this one-hour session is designed to get you unstuck and into alignment. We’ll dig into your narrative, uncover what matters most, and map out creative ways to share your story with confidence. You’ll even get a recording of the session to revisit anytime.

🎥 Book your session and use code PODCAST for 25% off:
https://katelyncalhoun.as.me/story-strategy-session

Join the Conversation:
📲 Instagram: @CraftedConnectionsPod

📬 DM us your questions or guest suggestions!

Crafted Connections is lovingly produced by Calhoun Creative Consulting, a strategic storytelling firm helping people and brands tell stories that resonate.

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 Keep creating, keep connecting.