In this episode of Raw + Rising, Joshua sits down with writer, director, and creative powerhouse Courtney Romano for an unfiltered conversation about forging an independent artistic career. As the founder of Queens Bird Films and QB / Arthouse, Courtney shares how she’s built a creative life on her own terms - one rooted in intuition, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in the power of art. From navigating industry expectations to embracing uncertainty, she offers a refreshingly honest perspective on what it means to sustain a career outside traditional gatekeepers.

Together, they dive into the shifting landscape of artistic success, the rise of independent creators, and why slowing down might be the most radical act an artist can take. Courtney challenges the myth of linear progress, argues for a creative process that mirrors nature’s cycles, and reminds us that true resilience isn’t about rigid hustle - it’s about trusting yourself and the work. If you’re feeling lost in the ever-changing creative economy, this conversation is an invitation to rethink, reframe, and reclaim your artistic journey.

Courtney Social Media

https://www.instagram.com/courtneyromano/

Queens Bird Social Media

https://www.instagram.com/queensbirdfilms/

QB / Arthouse Social Media

https://www.instagram.com/qbarthouse/

Let's Go Again Pod

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lets-go-again/episodes/Season-1-Trailer--Lets-Go-Again-e29a0k7?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYP14UVU6kBB9pAdPlDpAMvI4gE0rZajI5H3KcDE8h8rOHBIVJpqYrijYk_aem_vul6rIRtiZqIKnBshjyjYQ

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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.