Creative Risk

In this episode of Creative Risk, Mike sits down with multidisciplinary artist and entrepreneur Ruggero Vittorini, founder of Inward Studio. From his early days as a musician and visual artist to working in high-end kitchens, to ultimately launching a creative agency, Ruggero’s journey is a masterclass in adaptability.

He shares how he transitioned out of the cycle of survival jobs and built a thriving business that allows him to fully embrace his creative instincts. They dive deep into the evolving role of AI in the arts—why it’s not the enemy, but a powerful tool that artists must learn to wield. Ruggero also unpacks why today’s artists can’t afford to cling to rigid identities and how embracing flexibility is the key to long-term sustainability.

If you’ve ever questioned how to carve out a creative career in an unpredictable industry, this episode will challenge you to rethink your approach, evolve, and future-proof your artistry.

Space Tomato Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/thespacetomato/

Inward Studio Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/inward.studio/

Inward Studio Website
https://www.inward.studio/home

Ep 59

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

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— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

In this Valentine’s themed episode, Joshua sits down with performing artists and their "civilian" significant others to explore the challenges and rewards of relationships that bridge two different professional worlds. From balancing unpredictable schedules to navigating financial highs and lows, they discuss how partners can support each other while pursuing their individual passions.

How do you maintain connection through long periods apart? Merge two distinct social circles? Advocate for each other despite different career demands? This episode offers both practical advice and heartfelt perspective for artists and non-artists making it work.

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

In this Raw + Rising episode, Mike sits down with 2024 Tony nominee Tom Pecinka as he adjusts to life after the hit show Stereophonic. Tom offers some fantastic advice and perspective, including the dismissal of the "big break myth" and why viewing your art as a business isn't just okay, it's essential.

Watch now!

Tom's Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/tom.pecinka/

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

This one hits hard. The boys sit down with prolific casting director Lisa Zambetti (Criminal Minds) for a brutally honest conversation about the state of the industry. Is AI taking actors' jobs? (Short answer: yes.) Is the casting industry itself in trouble? (Absolutely.) But beyond the doom and gloom, this episode is about resilience—how us artists can adapt, support each other, and reclaim our creative power. Lisa speaks with rare transparency about her own struggles, hopes, and what she believes the future holds. From loyalty to unlocking your "why" in the face of uncertainty, this is a must-listen for any actor navigating Hollywood’s reckoning. 

Lisa's Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/lisazambetticasting/?hl=en 

Lisa's Website:
https://www.lisazambetticasting.com/

Killer Casting Podcast:
https://www.killercastingpod.com/podcast 

EPISODE #56 of CREATIVE RISK

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

THIS IS A SEGMENT FROM AN EXCLUSIVE PATREON EPISODE

Just the boys for this episode discussing a topic that's long been on their minds. As technology and AI continue to replace skill-based work, the traditional notion of the artist is undergoing a seismic shift. No longer confined by rigid job titles or institutional validation, today’s artists are being challenged—if not forced—to adopt the broader identity of "creative" or even cultural influencers. Drawing parallels to artists of the past and ancient societies, it's clear that what was old, is new again. We've been here before.

Social media and late-stage capitalism have brought an unsettling yet transformative opportunity: building an audience around a unique perspective rather than a specific skillset. The democratization of art via social platforms strips away the pretense of institutional gatekeeping, making it clear that art has always been about selling a point of view. By embracing the messiness of this new era, artists can focus less on meeting traditional notions of "great art" and instead invest in authentic storytelling, audience connection, and entrepreneurial thinking. This episode argues that the death of specialization isn’t the end—it’s an invitation to innovate and transform what it means to be an artist today.

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

In this Raw + Rising episode, Joshua sits down with Raphael Papo, a classically trained violinist and entrepreneur straddling Berlin and London. Raphael’s work is as interdisciplinary as it is intriguing, spanning his performance in Fiddler on the Roof at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, an unforgettable nude appearance at the real-life Kit Kat Club, and his mission to integrate classical music into corporate and educational spaces.

Joshua and Raphael dive into the evolving landscape of artistic specialization and the shifting role of skill-based work in today’s creative economy. They explore how artists can adapt to stay relevant, serve their communities, and lean into uncharted territories. Borrowing wisdom from David Bowie, Raphael shares how he’s navigating the balance of creativity and challenge, ensuring, as Bowie once said, “his feet aren’t quite touching the bottom.”

Listen now!

Raphael's Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/raphaelpapo/

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

In this episode, we talk with Peter Marks, former chief theater critic for The Washington Post, about his transition from legacy media to independent content creation on Substack. Reflecting on decades in journalism, Peter examines how the role of the theater critic may be changing, yet the value of thoughtful criticism remains essential for shaping conversations and elevating art.

We explore how to sustain meaningful, long-form storytelling in an age of short attention spans, as well as the timeless power of word of mouth and trust in bringing attention to art and ideas. Peter also shares how this new chapter allows him to connect his diverse passions and reimagine his creative path.

This conversation is a compelling look at creative reinvention, the evolving media landscape, and the enduring relevance of critical voices in the arts.

Marks & Vincentelli Podcast
https://marksvincentelli.substack.com/podcast

EPISODE #54 of CREATIVE RISK

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

In this episode of Creative Risk, Emmy-nominated composer Michael Kooman shares insights from his 20-year collaboration with lyricist Christopher Dimond. Together, they’ve crafted music for acclaimed stage productions and hit TV shows like Vampirina and Ridley Jones, proving that creative partnerships thrive on trust, compromise, and clear communication.

Michael dives into the art of collaboration—how to navigate creative disagreements, balance egos, and create an environment where both partners feel heard. Whether you’re a songwriter, filmmaker, or entrepreneur, Michael’s wisdom on building resilient partnerships, tackling blind spots, and finding joy in the creative process is invaluable. With guest co-host Shayna Blass (Shay and the Good People) this is a fun and very informative episode. Listen now!

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

In this episode of Raw + Rising, Helen Hayes Award-winning artist Hassiem Muhammad and frequent collaborator of Joushua's and Mike's dives deep into the lessons learned so far in his artistic journey. For instance, the creation of his series Angels of Uptown, funded and shot during the pandemic, the project exemplifies the grit and resourcefulness required of independent artists. Or his podcast, The Actor's Instrument, which is a valuable resource for anyone navigating the entertainment industry in 2025 and beyond. Hassiem shares insights on overcoming the fear of rejection, finding unexpected funding opportunities, and leading with passion to turn bold ideas into reality. His story highlights the importance of building relationships, embracing rejection, and staying determined—even when the path seems uncertain.

Hassiem also explores how the modern creative landscape, shaped by social media and entrepreneurship, offers both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges. He encourages artists to align their work with their values, pursue their personal interests, and challenge traditional notions of success. By asking reflective questions like, “What would you create if no one could say no?” and “What would you do if you could retire tomorrow?” Hassiem inspires listeners to reimagine their creative journeys with purpose, passion, and perseverance.

Listen now!

Hassiem's Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/hassiemmuhammad/

Hassiem's Website
https://www.hassiemmuhammad.com/

The Actor's Instrument Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/actorsinstrumentpodcast/

The Actor's Instrument Podcast
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2186021

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

In this inspiring episode, Mike sits down with Kristen Coury, CEO and Producing Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples, Florida, inside its stunning new $72 million theater. Kristen shares her eclectic journey, from working at Disney Theatrical and with Andrew Lloyd Webber to directing a feature film and unexpectedly landing in Naples to build an artistic legacy. They discuss the highs and hurdles of fundraising, the current challenges facing regional theaters, and how spirituality and vision fueled this 20-year dream. An unforgettable conversation with a trailblazing artist-entrepreneur whose sheer resilience offers a lot of lessons.


Kristen Coury Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/theladydirects/

Gulfshore Playhouse Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/gulfshore.playhouse/
www.facebook.com/gulfshoreplayhouse
https://linktr.ee/gulfshore.playhouse

Gulfshore Playhouse Website:
https://www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org/


EPISODE #51 of CREATIVE RISK

Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast today!

Submit your story to Raw & Rising, the mini-series spotlighting hustling creatives—those self-producing, diversifying their income, and tackling challenges head-on. Visit www.artists-strategy.com/creative-risk to pitch your story today.

—

Thanks for listening!

Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys:
www.artists-strategy.com/signup

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310

Subscribe on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cb

Follow Us on IG:
www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/

Follow Us on TikTok:
www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpod
— 
“CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist’s Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.