When we first created AMPLIFY!, we wanted to create a space that would do more than just tell stories. We wanted to would elevate them. As underrepresented creators, we know firsthand the struggle to find a place in a space that often overlooks voices like ours. This newsletter was born out of that struggle, and out of a desire to amplify voices that deserve to be heard.

What is AMPLIFY!?

In technical terms AMPLIFY! is a newsletter curated by Kocasters; a media company with the goal of highlighting the voices of underrepresented creators. If you ask us what AMPLIFY! is on a deeper level then we’d say, “AMPLIFY! is more than a newsletter. It’s a platform for creators whose stories aren’t always the loudest but are certainly worth listening to.” Whether you’re an artist, podcaster, streamer, or a writer, our mission is to help you get your voice out there.

We aim to make a collection of articles, creator spotlights, tips, and personal stories to highlight creators without representation in the creator world, and to help out smaller creators who want to enhance their content. Our content will range from interviews with creators to guides on how to navigate through the creator space, all with the goal of inspiring you to continue creating.

Meet the Creators

This journey started with two individuals who share a passion for storytelling and an appreciation for the underdog: Kokomo (that’s me!) and Sandwich.

Kokomo: I started out in the creator space on an audio-only platform called Spoon Radio, where I knew absolutely nothing about making content. I would stream spontaneously with no plan in mind besides hanging out with friends.

After roughly a 1 ½ years of no plans, I decided I finally wanted to take things more seriously and got a mentor- Le.Mikey. I took after him and started creating more structed, consistent, and scheduled content which later on helped me get badges that recognized achievements on the app.

• Choice (top monthly streamers)

• Pick (top submissions in a podcasting event)

• Original (contracted host of an official show on Spoon | Show: KOKOPOP)

• Partner (contracted brand ambassador and community leader on Spoon)

• Affiliate (contracted creator of a scheduled series on Spoon | Series: Kokomo Cafe)

• Verification (blue checkmark to verify users on Spoon)

I happily created content on Spoon until my departure from the app in March of this year due to disputes with the company and their management.

During my time on the app even while contracted I often felt unseen, despite my best efforts. This is partially due to the big company adjustments that were made during my time on the app and partially due to their lackluster efforts to maintain the US server.

I started Kocasters, and the newsletter AMPLIFY! to ensure that no other creator has the same fate of being undervalued and underrepresented thus losing passion for what they do. My greatest goal with AMPLIFY! is to let smaller creators know that they ARE seen, and they do deserve to be recognized. As someone who faced the ups and downs of building an audience from scratch, navigating behind-the-scenes changes, and seeing the platform’s rise and eventual decline, I came to understand how crucial it is to have spaces that support and empower creators like me. That’s why AMPLIFY! is personal to me—it’s my chance to create the kind of space I once needed.

Sandwich: My co-creator, Sandwich, is a long-time collaborator and a key part of this newsletter. Their perspective and creativity bring balance to the table, making AMPLIFY! what it is. From being a creative force in developing this newsletter to being someone who values thoughtful content over the noise, Sandwich represents what the spirit of AMPLIFY! is—to shine a light on what often goes unnoticed.

Why We Created AMPLIFY!

Our goal has been the same since the start—to make small creators feel heard. We just turned that into a question: “How can we help other creators who feel like their voices aren’t being heard?” We knew that by sharing our own experiences, and the experiences of others like us, we could help build a community where creators support each other.

We believe that creators should have a platform that celebrates their stories and successes, but also acknowledges their challenges. Because being an underrepresented creator is more than just a label. It’s a journey filled with resilience, passion, and a determination to be heard despite the obstacles.

Support Kocasters

While we love what we do for AMPLIFY!, we aren’t being paid to do it. As of right now Kocasters relies completely on the generosity of our donors to fuel ALL of our ventures.

Donations help us market to more people and assist smaller creators expand their reach in the process. Your support will help us sustain and grow AMPLIFY!, allowing us to empower more voices that deserve to be heard.

Support AMPLIFY! and help us empower creators. Donate here!

What’s Next?

In the coming weeks, you can expect behind the scenes in music production, deep dives into the creative process, and tips to help you refine your skills. We’ll be sharing thoughts on streaming strategies, creator resources, and discussions about what it means to be a creator in today’s digital age.

This is just the beginning. We hope you’ll follow us on this journey and, in turn, feel empowered to continue on your own.

Thank you for being a part of AMPLIFY!—a platform by underrepresented creators, for underrepresented creators. Because we believe that your voice matters.

Stay tuned and join us as we build this movement!

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