
ValuationPodcast.com - A podcast about all things Business + Valuation.
Valuation Podcast.com - A video and audio podcast on all topics concerning business owners and valuations. Melissa Gragg is a Business Valuation Expert in St. Louis and the host, she interviews CPAs, company valuation experts, testifying experts, marketing experts, divorce expert witnesses, estate planning experts, management consulting experts, strategic planning experts, business lawyers and covers business topics pertaining to company owners and attorneys. http://www.ValuationPodcast.com (314) 541-8163 or email hello@valuationpodcast.com
ValuationPodcast.com - A podcast about all things Business + Valuation.
Empowering Creatives: How to Build Community, Strategy, and Success for Artists - Kre8 Spaces, LLC
Empowering Creatives: How to Build Community, Strategy, and Success for Artists - Kre8 Spaces, LLC - ValuationPodcast.com
Welcome to ValuationPodcast.com, a podcast and video series covering all things business and valuation. I’m Melissa Gragg, a financial mediator and valuation expert based in St. Louis, Missouri.
Today’s episode is a truly inspiring one. We’re joined by Quintrel Brown, Dwayne Ferguson, and Christian Boyd—three creative entrepreneurs and founders of Kre8 Spaces, a production studio and community hub designed to empower artists, creators, and entrepreneurs. Their mission? To provide the tools, mentorship, and consistent support needed for sustainable creative and financial success.
These three aren’t just running a studio—they’re building a movement. From mentorship to grants, production tools to business strategy, they’re changing the way creatives launch and grow. Whether you’re a young artist, a seasoned entrepreneur, or just someone passionate about supporting the arts, you’ll want to hear their story.
Key Takeaways:
1. Community Is the Catalyst
Kre8 Spaces was founded on a shared mission to uplift creatives—especially young and underserved artists—by providing not only tools but also mentorship and connection. Real growth happens in community, and this space gives artists a place to collaborate, stay accountable, and build lasting relationships.
2. Strategy Over Stardom
Talent and tools aren’t enough. The team emphasizes the importance of having a clear strategy: knowing your end goal, setting short-term targets, and building consistency. Viral moments mean little without the foundation to sustain and monetize them.
3. Resources Go Beyond Equipment
While Kre8 Spaces offers state-of-the-art gear (like 4K cameras, podcast studios, and backdrops), the real value lies in what surrounds it: grant education, legal support, workshops, and mentorship. Creatives gain access to an ecosystem that helps them build sustainable income streams.
4. Creativity Drives Economic Impact
Investing in the arts uplifts entire communities. From tourism to tech, fashion to architecture, creativity fuels innovation and local pride. By supporting artists, cities like St. Louis can retain talent and stimulate cultural and economic growth.
5. Start Small, Stay Consistent, Show Up
Perfection isn’t required—action is. The founders stress that many creators stall waiting for ideal conditions. Instead, focus on building momentum, learning from missteps, and aligning with people who elevate your mission. Success is built through persistence and presence.
Visit Kre8 Spaces
Connect with Quintrel
Connect with Dwayne
Connect with Christian
Melissa Gragg is a seasoned financial mediator and business valuation expert with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in helping couples and business partners navigate complex financial disputes during divorce and separation. As the founder of Bridge Valuation Partners and a key member of The Divorce Allies, Melissa offers neutral, third-party services including business valuations, pension assessments, income analysis, and strategic settlement planning.
https://www.valuationmediation.com
https://www.thedivorceallies.com
http://www.MediatorPodcast.com
https://www.ValuationPodcast.com
Connect with Melissa:
Melissa Gragg
Expert testimony for financial and valuation issues
Bridge Valuation Partners, LLC
melissa@bridgevaluation.com
http://www.BridgeValuation.com
Cell: (314) 541-8163