This week, Shero Comics founder and CEO Shequeta Smith joined the Independent Book Publishers Association for their first podcast episode of the year. In a candid and resource-filled conversation with host Christopher Locke, Shequeta shared how creators can find funding for their work and told the story behind Shero’s Geeky Grants & Gigs—which originally grew out of the Shero Comics’ company newsletter.

Since launching Geeky Grants & Gigs as its own Substack on December 12, the response has been incredible. The list is well over 700 subscribers, and every Friday it delivers grants, gigs, opportunities, and internships for creatives working in film, gaming, writing, and the arts.

In a full-circle moment, Shequeta was recently awarded a small grant she originally shared with the community back in December. That funding is now supporting a new partnership with a nonprofit in South Central Los Angeles to host a workshop for young Black girls focused on the history of textured hair. The project connects closely to Young Grandmaster Choi Chapter 3, which centers on Rayven discovering her power through her 4C hair.

On the IBPA podcast, Shequeta also shared how she has funded her creative career through grants, along with practical tips on where to find opportunities and how to apply—including resources from her own newsletter.

Watch the full episode below.