A Creative Entrepreneurship
At 33, I earned a degree in Philosophy and Entrepreneurship from the University of Central Florida. This unique combination of disciplines has been instrumental in shaping my approach to creativity and business. Philosophy provided me with a foundation for examining life’s deeper questions, teaching me to critically analyze concepts and ideas.
It nurtured my intellectual curiosity, encouraging me to search for truth and meaning in everything I do. Entrepreneurship, on the other hand, grounded my thinking in practicality, offering me strategies for high performance and effective action in real-world scenarios.
Together, these fields serve as the foundation of my creative ventures over the last decade. The intersection of intellectual depth and practical execution has allowed me to pursue innovative ideas while staying grounded in reality.
Whether I’m producing music, teaching students, or running my company, this philosophical entrepreneurial approach informs every decision I make. It’s about balancing reflection with action, ensuring that my creative output is not only impactful but also purposeful.
Roots in Orlando
After graduation, I felt an urge to contribute meaningfully to my community in Orlando. Returning to my roots, I worked at the same elementary school that my father and other family members had attended. This full-circle moment was both personal and professional, as it allowed me to honor my heritage while planting the seeds for future generations.
For three years, I worked with students across different grades, focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. My goal was not just to teach the curriculum but to create spaces where students could explore, experiment, and grow. These subjects are critical for navigating the complexities of the modern world, and I wanted to help students develop the skills and mindset necessary for facing the challenges of the 21st century.
A STEM Education Garden Oasis
In the heart of a food desert, I led an initiative to build a 40ft by 25ft STEM garden on the school campus. We constructed 16 raised garden beds, turning this small patch of land into a vibrant learning hub for students from Pre-K to 5th grade. But it wasn’t just a garden—it was a safe space for exploration and discovery.
The garden served as a hands-on laboratory where students learned about plant biology, environmental stewardship, and sustainability. We cultivated more than just plants—we cultivated skills and values that these students would carry with them for the rest of their lives. We sowed seeds of compassion, service, and healthy decision-making, emphasizing the interconnectedness of our actions and the environment.
The STEM garden also became a place where creativity flourished. We combined lessons in science and technology with discussions about ethics, responsibility, and the future, bridging my philosophical training with practical learning experiences.
Entrepreneurship and Knowledge
Our garden became a living example of entrepreneurship in action. The students collaborated with each other and their environment to solve real-world problems, learning how to make reasonable choices that balanced short-term needs with long-term sustainability. This experience taught them the value of innovation, adaptability, and teamwork—skills that are essential for the future.
Through this project, the students saw how knowledge could be applied beyond the classroom to impact their lives and communities. It wasn’t just about learning facts; it was about developing a mindset of growth, curiosity, and resilience. The garden empowered them to think entrepreneurially, to see opportunities where others saw limitations, and to use their skills to build something meaningful.
Creative Health and Literacy
The success of this initiative was measurable. Orlando Health, one of the project’s partners, reported an 82 percent increase in health literacy among the students over the three-year period. This dramatic improvement highlighted the transformative power of integrating hands-on learning with creative teaching methods.
In 2018, Lift Orlando, another partner, published in their annual report praising the initiative. They noted that the work we had done laid the groundwork for a promising future for these students, especially in fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and a sense of agency over their own lives.
A Springboard to New Visions
My experiences in Orlando, coupled with my academic background, were more than just personal milestones—they were the springboard to a much larger vision. Working with students and creating spaces for growth sparked my desire to take on new horizons. I wanted to channel this momentum into a creative field that combined my love for philosophy, education, and entrepreneurship.
This drive led me to embrace the wave of The Great Resignation, leaving traditional work structures to focus on building my own company. I realized that I wanted to continue influencing people and communities, but in a way that was deeply aligned with my passion for the arts and creativity.
Letstalkbeats Inc. Takes Flight
In January 2021, I officially launched Letstalkbeats Inc., a small business that brings together the worlds of creativity and philosophy. Letstalkbeats serves as both an educational platform and a licensing service for up-and-coming artists, offering them the tools and knowledge to navigate the complex music industry.
With a decade of experience and a vision that blends intellectual inquiry with artistic innovation, Letstalkbeats aims to elevate artists’ understanding of the industry while fostering their creative growth. My entrepreneurial skills have helped me navigate uncharted territory, and my deep belief in the power of faith and imagination continues to guide me through the challenges and opportunities of running a business.
Faith and Loved Ones
None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my loved ones. Their belief in my journey and vision has been instrumental in giving me the courage to embrace new challenges and pursue my dreams. My faith, combined with this support system, has been a cornerstone of my growth and resilience.
From my academic journey to my work in Orlando and beyond, my loved ones have been there every step of the way. They have inspired me to keep pushing forward, to remain true to my values, and to never stop learning.
Final Thoughts
My journey is one of transformation—one that began with philosophical questions and evolved into entrepreneurship, creativity, and community impact. From my work in a STEM garden to launching a media company, every phase of my life has been intentional and filled with purpose.
As I continue to move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned from these experiences. The seeds I’ve sown, both in the garden and in my personal endeavors, will continue to blossom. This journey is not just about success but about creating a legacy of growth, inspiration, and love.
Justin David
Creative man • Philosopher • Artist • Producer
