MK: I guess there's definitely a lack of education regarding budgeting, and how to manage money for young people which is why we’re putting out this issue. I think that’s a really important thing people need to learn.

JS: Yeah. Another thing that's been really interesting for me is realizing how many people are going through the same thing. There's a group here called WAGE – Working Artists for the Greater Economy – and it’s kind of trying to figure out the ways in which artists can get paid better for their work and create a union for a lack of a better word and try and come together on this and figure out how to do it right. What's interesting right now in 2012 is that nobody really knows the answer to anything. If we did, we’d be working towards making our economy stronger but it’s as if we’re all just experimenting. Just with the music industry – you know the internet has taken jobs, the internet has become this place for free information and free art which is all really cool. But in this other way we all need to think about what to do with that now. I think any kind of skill sharing community groups that can sit around and talk about ideas and help each other out is the really the way to do it, it’s like going back in time.
MK: You talked a bit about experimenting and people not knowing the answer. Do you have any advice for young people that want to become a musician or artist? You mentioned skill sharing but do you have any other tips?

JS: To me, it’s always just about having the time and not really doubting yourself. I think the best thing you can do is make good work and that’s something that I really believe in. The more you think about who’s going to buy what you're doing, the more that affects your music or your paintings or your photos. I think as artists in this economy, the best thing we can do is make good art, make relevant art and be critical of ourselves and critical of society. And take chances. That’s what eventually is going to be the most successful and respected.

MK: I want to talk a little bit about when you mentioned confidence. You are somebody who is a trailblazer in terms of gender identity, and somebody who encourage people to reexamine the rigid lines of gender. Do you have any advice for our readers and listeners who may identify as queer and trans in terms of garnering that confidence or, achieving success according to their own terms?