Dutty Sink Drama: A burst of creativity and activism

Have You Heard? is where the Pod Bible team meet the people behind the podcasts you may not have heard of yet. This time we’re speaking to Writer, Podcaster and creator of the Dutty Sink Drama podcast, Jaqi Loye-Brown…

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

Dutty Sink Drama podcast accompanies the anthology of spokenword poetry, micro-memoir and prose of the same name, published by indie publisher MT Ink, 2021. I (Jaqi Loye-Brown), explore identity, race and topical themes, from Windrush, the pandemic to Grenfell and Brexit. A burst of creativity and activism borne out of the lockdown.

The podcast is focused on the Windrush Generation. I’m a product of that time, a child born in Britain with a Caribbean heritage. I was aware of the various stories we had, all very different and wanted to use the platform to share those experiences. I wanted to give a voice to growing up Caribbean and British in the UK and the navigating that intersection during the 1960’s & 70’s. Little was heard then or now of the now middle aged people. My podcast although long in episode, I hope as a body of work shines a light on those experiences. It also includes spokenword recitals and specially written short drama monologues.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

White Wine Question Time with Kate Thornton, followed by The Michelle Obama Podcast and Grounded with Louis Theroux.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

I always had a keen interest in radio. A passion going back to pirate radio in the Midlands during the 1980’s (I was a newsreader via Teletext). I took many short courses in the days of tape and china graph during the 90’s somewhere in Kings Cross before involvement in RSL’s. I produced a show I co-hosted called The Women’s Locker Room in White City London. Like many people podcast was a buzz word that I felt compelled to investigate further and immediately knew I would produce my own show in the near future.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

White Wine Question Time received a lot of press and the title won me over. Archetypes from Archewell Audio – for the narration interjected between the guest interview. I find it engaging, because in the end, I want to hear from Meghan Markle as much as her guests.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

The appeal of Dutty Sink Drama is the ordinary guest, the authentic voice of people who are not public figures or persons of note. They‘re non media savvy happy to share their story without worrying about going off brand. My guests come from a suspicious community and the freedom to share thoughts is unwelcomed. They trust me. That’s more important. I’m happy to pull an episode if they’re uncomfortable.

But if Zadie Smith was about…

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?

Preparation. Have questions ready. Go over them again and again. Keeping guests on topic is a skill. My questions are often too long!

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Episode 1. ‘Dumplings, Drumming and the Death Stare with Myrah‘

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

My books are available to order online from reputable book stores from Amazon to Waterstones and Foyles.

I’ve just finished MA Creative Writing at Birkbeck and I am currently seeking representation.

Listen to Dutty Sink Drama on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps.