Kahrin Spear: Most Interesting People 2022

Why She’s Interesting: After facing an identity crisis following her graduation from John Carroll University, Spear knew it was time for change. She embarked on a cross-country trip where she discovered her voice, herself and her passion for music, leading her to put out her first-ever album, Kahrin.

In Quarantine: With so much free time to explore her abilities, Spear produced song after song. “I realized that I had a whole album that was a story from start to finish. And I was like, Oh, this is really cool; maybe I should just try to find a team to put it together, because I don’t know anything about music.”

Lights, Camera, Action: As a senior in college, Spear was tired of everyone asking what her plans were — and being unable to answer. “I came home … one day and decided to just do a meditation around the question, What am I supposed to contribute to the world? And, strangely enough, film and videography came through and this whole idea for a documentary.” One thing led to another — and Spear connected with a filmmaker in Cleveland who helped her launch her career as a videographer.

On Love: Spear knew before she could truly flourish, she would have to confront her inner battle. “The whole album pretty much is about losing a woman I loved because I was afraid that I wasn’t going to be a good mom if my kids didn’t have a dad.”

She’s Taking Action: Spear tackled the struggle head on by beginning a platform, “Love Speaks,” where she and her mom host webinars that delve into the parent-and-child journey through the rockier parts of coming out. “I have many conversations with God during the album. So I think just speaking honestly about my life journey is something that I hope can be a source of relief for other people to know that they can do the same.”

What’s Next? Her new album Songs from Willow Creek. “It’s a poetry book that my papa wrote that I’m taking 11 songs from and turning into an album. So it’s a very meaningful project for me.”

Advice From Spear: “It’s very simple. Love your neighbor and love yourself. That’s literally the only thing we should ever need to know.”

Click here to meet the 30 Most Interesting People of 2022.