Ep 34: Inquire Within with IN-Q

Inquire Within with IN-Q

Episode 34: Show Notes.

Today’s guest is somebody who inspires a lot of people with his words. His name is Adam Schmalholz, but you may be more familiar with his stage name, IN-Q, which stands for IN-Question. IN-Q is a National Poetry Slam champion, award-winning poet, multi-platinum songwriter, recent first-time author, and one of the most electric spoken word performers on the scene.

In this episode, you’ll discover that his backstory is equally as fascinating as his poems. Listening to this conversation, you’ll find out how he first discovered his gift for poetry in school and how he went on to develop and refine his unique style. You’ll hear about the lean years, when IN-Q had no way of making money as a spoken word poet, when he had to pay for food with pocket change and work odd jobs to survive.

You’ll also learn that, after putting in well over 10,000 hours in writing and performing, IN-Q finally had the opportunity to perform for people like Quincy Jones, Hillary Clinton, and even President Barack Obama. He went on to win awards, get featured on Def Poetry Jam and Oprah's Super Soul 100 List. His spoken word videos have received nearly 100 million views and he has sold out as the largest one-man poetry show in Los Angeles history.

Like most changemakers, IN-Q’s backstory was not linear. All of the ups and the downs played a crucial role in navigating him along his path, and that is what makes his story so compelling – it’s something that we can all relate to. Tune in today to find out more about IN-Q’s incredible journey.

Key Points From This Episode:

IN-Q’s favorite toy as a child was a G.I. Joe Snake Eyes action figure, perhaps because mystery makes history.
IN-Q talks about what it was like for him, not having his father around while he grew up.
His natural attraction to subjects that dealt with storytelling in school – like English.
When IN-Q was first introduced to hip-hop and the impact it had on him.
From Will Smith to Run DMC and A Tribe Called Quest – how IN-Q’s taste in hip-hop evolved.
Practicing his freestyle, learning to focus his energy, and the mentor he had at a young age.
What IN-Q’s idea of success was at that age and what he saw himself becoming.
The problem with setting high expectations for yourself and manipulating your truth in order to achieve them.
Freestyle versus written material and the incredible number of poems IN-Q has memorized.
IN-Q’s first rap name, and how he became known as IN-Q thanks to his curious nature.
Hear the story of when IN-Q met his father for the first time – Spoiler alert: It didn’t go well!
How IN-Q was first introduced to Da Poetry Lounge and ended up staying for 14 years.
The differences between music and spoken word poetry and what that shift was like for him.
How IN-Q funded his dreams during the lean years and the obsession that drove him.
Where IN-Q’s philosophical perspective on life came from – that he couldn’t control life, only go along for the ride.
Learn about the incredible support IN-Q received from his community in the early days.
IN-Q talks about his relationship with actor and poet, Omari Hardwick, and how Def Poetry Jam changed (or didn’t change) his life.
What IN-Q has learned from performing for and connecting with strangers versus those who are already familiar with his work.
The importance of setting clear boundaries and asking others to respect them.
When IN-Q says he is still finding his voice, it means that he is ever-evolving and learning.
Where the commentary starts and the poem begins – and why the story is key.
Find out how IN-Q came up with the idea for the cover of his book, Inquire Within.
How the collaborative project, Speakeasy Poetry, came to fruition and what it’s all about.
The impact that meditation that has on IN-Q’s life, which has become a daily practice.
Why IN-Q’s definition of success involves being authentically himself and open to judgment.
Final words of wisdom from IN-Q: It is going to be okay, so let go and enjoy the ride!

Tweetables:

“I truly fell in love with not only rap music and the popular stuff, but hip-hop and the underground scene, and the freedom of self-expression and freestyling. I’ve said often that that was my first form of meditation. I think that's a good tagline. It's a good thing to say, because people can put it in their pocket for later, but I really do mean it.” — @INQLIFE [0:13:06]

“I’ll tell any artist out there, aggressively maintain your humility as much as you can. Not everyone will see you that way, no matter what you do. Internally, to consciously take steps to not take yourself too seriously is really important for maintaining an open channel for creativity to come through you.” — @INQLIFE [0:20:43]

“My truth was and has always been the biggest part of my art.” — @INQLIFE [0:22:12]

“Who you are is what you do, but just because you're an amazing business person, doesn't make you an amazing father. Just because you're an amazing father, doesn't make you an amazing partner. Just because you're an amazing partner, doesn't make you an amazing friend. I think it's important for all of us to try to find that balance and to do our best to show up in all those areas.” — @INQLIFE [0:37:57]

“I struggled for many years to make a living and couldn't figure out what direction I was supposed to go, but something in me kept writing and kept wanting to share what I was writing. If you follow your enthusiasm long enough, the path will lead the way.” — @INQLIFE [0:46:33]

“You can't tell life where it's going to go. You can just put in your order and then let go and take the ride.” — @INQLIFE [0:52:33]

“People don't have to understand your boundaries in order to respect them. They just have to respect them. If you're clear about what your boundaries are, you don't need to convince anyone of anything.” — @INQLIFE [1:07:04]

“I know times are difficult right now and everyone is trying to grasp, to control things that are out of their control in their own ways. Let's just let go, enjoy the ride. Try to be good to people. Try to be good to yourself. If you want to alchemize that negative energy, try creating a poem and see what happens.” — @INQLIFE [1:24:37]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: