This week on Behind the Mic, I’m joined by fellow REVOLT Podcast Network veteran and media powerhouse, Lalaa Shepard. Lalaa is the creator of The Progress Report, one of Atlanta’s most respected platforms for hip hop and culture. From her early days working with Cincinnati artists to building genuine relationships in Atlanta’s music scene, Lalaa’s journey is rooted in hustle, intention, and community.

B-Sides Track of the Week:

Lalaa shares “Hot Boyz” by Kai Cash — a standout track from one of her favorite emerging artists.

Lalaa opens up about how her upbringing and work ethic shaped her path from college to the strip clubs of Atlanta where she learned the real mechanics of the music business. She breaks down how The Progress Report became an essential stop for artists, producers, and tastemakers in Atlanta’s hip hop ecosystem.

In the rapid-fire game Overrated or Underrated, we get her take on the blog era, media training for artists, women rap collectives, and more.

Featured Quote:

"I’m just a student of the game. I’ve been in love with music and journalism since I was a little kid."

Chapters:

00:52 Meet Lalaa Shepard

01:26 Lalaa's Journey in Music and Journalism

03:18 The Progress Report and Atlanta's Music Scene

05:25 Challenges and Inspirations

14:36 Rapid Fire: Overrated or Underrated

16:22 Lalaa's Love for Sports

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Follow Lalaa Shepard:

Instagram, Threads, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube: @LalaaShep

Website: TPR Media Group

Instagram: @TheProgressReport101

Behind the Mic: Powered by REVOLT Podcast Network is hosted by me, Wize Grazette. Special thanks to The Indie Creative Network and Storytime Studios for editing and producing this podcast.

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