Speak easy and SprinkleSumSalt: Podcaster passes the mic to KC’s underground arts scene

Untold stories of creative talent and entrepreneurial spirit are raging beneath the surface of Kansas City’s mainstream, said Bump Jonas, who finds vibrant inspiration in musicians, chefs, and small business owners angling to reach a broader audience.

“I wanted to bring something unique to Kansas City, a space where artists and entrepreneurs can connect and share their stories,” Jonas explained, diving deeper into his SprinkleSumSalt podcast and his monthly, in-person showcase event: The Mecca.

As an artist himself — originally from Houston — he found Kansas City’s vibrant, underground arts scene appealing, he said.

“People express themselves in so many ways here, whether it’s through street art, dancing, or vending at the local markets,” Jonas said.

Seeing this potential, he launched the podcast to “sprinkle some salt” on those creatives’ stories and bring Kansas City’s under-the-radar talent to light.

Setting the trap

Bump Jonas, right, interviews Alex Pope, Local Pig, on a recent episode of SprinkleSumSalt

What began with Instagram Live interviews also soon evolved into his full YouTube series, Sit Down at Syke, offering longer, more in-depth conversations for SprinkleSumSalt. Recent episode feature a range of locals — from hip-hop group ScumLords of KC to Chef Alex Pope of Local Pig, who recently confirmed plans for an in-the-works Museum of BBQ at Crown Center.

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Jonas sources his guests organically, he said, often meeting them at pop-ups and events across the city.

“I want to talk to people who are passionate about what they do,” he said. “Everyone is creative in one way or another, and I think it’s important to tell those stories.”

Kansas City’s underground scene is buzzing with a unique blend of trap, garage-band rock, and grungy beats — a fusion of alt-rap and alt-rock that Jonas feels is just beginning to gain traction.

The Mecca of performance space

Jonas’s monthly event, The Mecca, organized on the last Friday of each month at 7742 Troost Ave., offers a space for Kansas City artists to connect with new fans. 

Designed as a “performance house,” The Mecca features six or seven artists per event, all of whom have been featured on SprinkleSumSalt.

“Everything I make from The Mecca goes right back to the artists after covering venue and DJ costs,” said Jonas. “I want to provide a space where artists can meet new fans, perform, and actually get paid for it. For me, it’s about creating the opportunities I wish I’d had when I was an artist.”

With live performances, local vendors, and a speakeasy atmosphere, The Mecca has quickly become a place for creatives in the Kansas City underground scene to find their voice, he said, adding that the event has been running for more than a year now, with no signs of slowing down. 

“Consistency is key for me,” Jonas said. “The last Friday of every month is reserved for The Mecca — no breaks. It’s important to me that this space is always there.” 

Supporting KC’s creative growth

Reflecting on his journey, Jonas remains committed to making Kansas City a mecca for independent artists and entrepreneurs, he said. His work is fueled by a belief in the power of underground markets and the need for accessible creative spaces.

“There are a lot of resources in Kansas City now, but it can still be challenging for artists to make money,” Jonas said. “The support is here, but artists need to be creative about making it sustainable.”

Through SprinkleSumSalt and The Mecca, Jonas continues to foster an environment where local, independent talent can build careers on their terms, he said. 

“Artists are more entrepreneurial-minded now than ever,” Jonas continued. “They’re focused on building their own teams, creating their own brands. I want to help them make that happen.”