On helping creative minds to bloom

POP DECODER - NEW ADVENTURE

“Ok there! Pop Decoder!” I exclaimed after Joe Kams had once again delivered a compelling pop culture analysis.

 Ever since we had become colleagues Joe and I had had countless conversations about music and the music industry: the producers, the composers, the managers, the A&R’s, the single runs, the social media campaigns … No stone was left unturned. We loved deciphering music’s relation to and impact on pop culture. I would come out of those chats feeling inspired, motivated and intrigued to learn more. And for good reasons! Joe has both the contagious energy of someone passionate about music and the insights of a professional who has experienced the industry up close for some time.

I knew that reconnecting with music journalism and creating his own content was on Joe’s mind. In the months of Spring and Summer 2024 our conversations intensified at the same time as my headspace cleared up. Soon enough dots connected in my mind: Joe’s ideas and ambitions on one side and my love for and knowledge of podcasting on the other side. As for the conceptual outlines of the content, they were hiding in the plain sight of our all-things music discussions!

From the kickstart in the Fall 2024 to the soft launch of Pop Decoder in February 2025, I have accompanied Joe all steps of the way. As usual when I feel inspired to execute an idea, my project management expertise kicks in. From the definition of a clear framework to the coordination of the production, it all comes naturally. Keen to lay down solid foundations for our collaboration, we took the time to discuss the vision and our objectives before getting into execution mode. Being the co-creator of the podcast as well as the executive producer I have played different roles: a partner always, a sounding board often, a hype girl sometimes   

Joe Kams and I gearing up for the launch of Pop Decoder

INWARD-OUTWARD’S MISSION

The Pop Decoder inception story encapsulates what Inward-Outward is about: meeting a creative mind, discovering their inspiration and process, unpacking their aspiration, providing a nurturing structure and working together to bring their talent to others. Inward-Outward stems from my deep conviction that talents are meant to be developed and shared with others. Ultimately, connection reigns supreme and creativity is conducive to that.

My awe for creativity goes way back as it was instilled in me by my favourite artist: Clotilde Guillaume, my mother. A former Art Déco student and a multi-disciplinary artist, Clotilde has created her whole life but with little exposure. When a young adult, I would find myself presenting her art in social settings when she would be too reserved to talk about it herself. I wanted her story to be engaging and drawing people in. It’s quite naturally that when I got the opportunity to organise Inward-Outward’s first exhibition she was the artist I wanted to work with. It was an honour and a joy to collaborate and showcase her work for the first time ever!

 “Helping others” – is a driving force that has animated me for the longest time. Playing a key part in my decision to study and work in international relations, it took a different form when I entered the creative industries. Inward-Outward is the rawest incarnation of this personal mission, and the closest to my heart.  My wish is to keep meeting creative minds and bringing their work to people with whom it will resonate. The Pop Decoder has been hard launched, and I am now gearing up for Clotilde Guillaume’s new exhibition. The horizon is looking good so far. Stay tuned!

INWARD-OUTWARD NEWS

 

Louise Guillaume