These letters document my journey of monetizing creativity. Take what inspires you and leave what doesn't resonate. xx

The Hollywood Fringe is fast approaching. I'm eager to present 'Mother's Crème Diaries' once more to a live audience, this time incorporating lessons learned from the first two performances last year.

This year for the first time everything will be rehearsed and performed live on stage.

I was apprehensive about trying it out this way because of the extra rehearsal time and money, but overall, I believe its what the show was missing the first go round.

I've received the official schedule. Previews are set for Pride weekend, on Friday, June 7, at 8:30 p.m., followed by June 22 at 5 p.m. and June 29 at 3:30 p.m.

Tony Soto will reprise his role as Shaniah, the radio show host. I have yet to confirm the other actors.

As of now, these are my expenses for the show:

$300.00 for Fringe Festival registration

$1127.50 for theater rental

Mudanças (Changes)

This whole new management role I accepted in late January is really tripping me out.

I accepted the role at Desert Five Spot because it felt like a very clear signal from the universe.

2023 was very confusing for me. My dog, who had been with me for 16 years, was put down. My best friend and production partner, with whom I collaborated on everything, moved to NYC to start a family and the gig lifestyle that I was using to support myself had really wore thin.

I felt as though everything around me was changing, but I was standing absolutely still.

I thought about possibly relocating to another big city. But where? And why?

I began asking the universe for signs of my next move. Yes, I talk to the universe, usually through meditation.

One big desire of mine was definitely MONEY. I started very primitive. People with more money have more power and resources.

However, with more income comes greater responsibility. I knew that I would have to start developing leadership skills if I wanted more money.

I went so far as to create a vision board with a picture of myself on Leonardo DiCaprio's face in The Wolf of Wall Street. To me, that photo embodied leadership, I guess.

I knew the jig was up. If I wanted any change in my life, I had to take drastic action. Jump into the unknown.

Since accepting that new role in management three months ago, I don't even know who I am anymore.

But to be honest, I know I like it... let's bring Diane Lane back.

Like Connie Sumner in "Unfaithful," I'm thrust into a world in which I have no business being. The life of payroll, scheduling, and write-ups.

It's very fight or flight, and I'm curiously fighting to stay afloat.

When we can experience a sense of power with what we're doing, a sense that "I'm getting better at this", the sense of accomplishment and achievement is one of the things that makes us feel powerful, which drives us to feel motivated to do stuff.

Some nights are harder than others, but I'm very appreciative of the position. I'm proving to myself that I was born a badass and that everything I thought of myself prior was just self-limiting beliefs that I unintentionally acquired.

As creatives, we're recommended to take on entry-level jobs, such as serving or bartending, to maintain autonomy in our creative lifestyle.

Unfortunately, I held onto that mindset for too long without realizing it was the cause of my unhappiness.

You can be successful in a job that you love and still maintain control over other creative endeavors. You just have to work harder.

This job is actually helping me fund my latest project for the Fringe Festival and is sparking new ideas for the venue itself.

Interestingly, I started this newsletter to document my journey into monetising creativity, and it's quite a journey. I'm embarking on this new corporate adventure, all while continuing my passion for drag.

I'm continually exploring ways to incorporate my creativity into my “day job”.

Welcome to Your New Life, There's No Turning Back

Earlier this year, I realized I needed to rewire years of habitual thinking. This meant purposefully challenging myself in different areas of my life.

One way I determine whether I should tackle a task is by how much it scares me. One example is this newsletter.

Sharing my challenges and outlining my goals was uncomfortable at first, but it has been very therapeutic in its own unique way. It also helps me with writing.

Another area in my life that freaks me out is public speaking. Now, I don't necessarily want to be a public speaker, but I do want to speak clearly and confidently to groups of people.

As I dive deeper into the business world, it's imperative that I be confident when speaking.

So I signed up for stand up comedy classes… jk

I joined a group called Toastmasters. It's an educational organization that operates clubs worldwide for the purpose of helping people develop communication, public speaking, and leadership skills.

Essentially, it's AAA meetings without addicts... well, who knows.

The whole experience is very interesting. Why is speaking to a crowd so terrifying? My heart starts pounding the moment I get called on, and then I scramble to articulate what's in my head.

It's going to take practice, but I already see some improvements. The group also helps with spontaneity.

I'm definitely excited to see what a year of Toastmasters brings.

Sidenote: How crazy is this shit??

Many moons ago, when I was an actor, I was represented by Clear Talent Group. On my first day at Toast Masters, I noticed Brianna Ancel. She's the president of Clear Talent Group.

She recognized me, and we chatted.

Whats crazy about this story is she reps all the biggest queens for tv and film.

In 2018, Brianna facilitated a partnership with Producer Entertainment Group, the premier management company representing drag queens and LGBTQ+ performers. They worked collaboratively as agents for talent, including RuPaul’s Drag Race alums Ginger Minj, Manila Luzon, Jujubee, Lady Bunny, and BenDeLaCreme, among others.

I haven't spoken to Brianna about my work in drag yet, but I believe Fringe Fest tickets to Möther’s Creme Diaries LIVE will be the perfect opportunity.

Desert Five Spot

When I first started this job, everyone was excited for me since I finally had a venue to stage my shows. But, what many people didn't realize was that the venue had a unique vibe.

It's a country-meets-Hollywood rooftop bar.

Programming is very distinct too. We have live bands, Cowboy Karaoke, and line dancing. But just because everything is country-centric, doesn't mean I can't have a little fun and embed some of Derek’s charm into the programming.

I thought this would just be a "day job," but I'm quickly getting sucked into the programming activities here.

With Pride season approaching, I thought it would be a great time to pitch some of my ideas to marketing. Now, I have to be very gentle with this place, which presents a fun challenge for me.

I started developing a burlesque themed show around “The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas”. Its sex, camp and country.

The concept is still in the air but it will blend men, woman and drag performers. Giving it a little sideshow vibe as well.

I decided to enlist the help of Miss Elaine, a regular performer at Tuesical's with a distinct period look.

Together, I think we can cook up something fun for this venue.

Also on the Pride event list is a Sunday pool party that I think we should host on our beautiful rooftop.

I didn't want to miss this opportunity since the LA Pride parade goes right past our hotel. I also knew it was important to stay in my lane and hire a professional promoter.

I got in contact with Matt Ravey, the mastermind behind the Maurice Party at Los Globos. After a quick phone chat, I got him to the venue to meet our marketing team.

Everyone is eager to collaborate for Pride, but administrative procedures need to be finalized on both sides.

In closing, I honestly have no clue where this newsletter, or even I, am heading next. I just know I’m buckled in tight and doing my best to enjoy the ride.

P.S. I'm still on the hunt for a business partner. I'm seeking someone who not only complements my strengths but also brings fresh insight and wisdom to MCD and beyond.

Thank you all for reading xx

If you have any questions or suggestions for the newsletter, please feel free to contact me directly at [email protected]. This is an open creative space!