Creative Risk

In our final episode for the forseeable future, the boys talk about why the podcast must come to an end and peel back the curtain on the raw realities of building a creative business - away from the cliches and overhyped shortcuts. We dive deep into the missteps many creatives make, from spreading themselves too thin to chasing false metrics of success.  With the right frameworks, you can harness...

Most artists and entrepreneurs want to follow a linear path - they think success means reaching a specific goal. Ryan Hill’s journey proves the opposite: adaptability, curiosity, and following your impulses are the true markers of a fulfilled career. From a vibrant career in producing and education to shaping iconic events like Hamilton’s opening nights, Ryan reveals how embracing change and trust...

Few have navigated opera's evolving landscape quite like Sarah Joy Miller. In this candid conversation, Sarah reveals how the art form’s rigid traditions are giving way to a new, more creative era.  At the core of this episode is the profound idea that opera is the “journey of the heart, mind, and soul”- a slice of art that demands both technical mastery and emotional depth. We break down how...

Even though we are performers, we sometimes feel totally humiliated putting ourselves and our art out there. If public failure, insecurity, or the fear of looking foolish hold you back, this episode may be your unexpected key to authenticity. The boys dive deep into the art - and the absurdity - of performance, exploring how our industry’s obsession with control, polish, and “perfection” often kil...

Most creatives feel the sting of jealousy more often than they admit - if only because society rewards winning, validation, and "success." Whether it’s jealousy of a friend’s bigger role, a colleague’s validation, or the perceived unfairness of the industry, this emotional tide can feel overwhelming.  But what if jealousy isn’t just a destructive force? What if it’s actually a window int...

Most professional relationships are doomed to sour when trust, communication, or appreciation fail - but some can be salvaged, and others are worth letting go. In this episode, the boys dive deep into the nuanced art of managing and repairing professional and creative bonds before resentment and negativity take hold. Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekl...

Consistency...what's its importance in our professional and personal lives? In this episode the boys discuss it : what stands in the way, why it's uniquely challenging for artists and how to build it. 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 sto...

Ron Weiss, an international theater maker and creative researcher, joins the episode to discuss his journey and insights into the world of theater. The conversation delves into Ron's experiences with immersive theater, his approach to creative research, and the challenges and opportunities of working internationally.  Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts,...

THIS IS AN EXCERPT OF A PATREON EXCLUSIVE EPISODE The boys get into the unique qualities that make artists inherently poised for success (despite how it may feel sometimes). From the hustle mindset to creative problem-solving, they explore how passion and adaptability fuel artistic endeavors. Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much m...

The boys explore this new(ish) concept and how individuals can leverage their unique interests and experiences to build a personal brand and monetize their journey. It touches on the shift from traditional marketing to a more personal, authentic approach, emphasizing the importance of documenting one's authentic journey and sharing it with an audience. Join our Patreon for ad-free early acces...

Arnold Harper II is an actor and stylist from Baltimore who is definitely well-liked in our theater community. Listen now to hear him talk about his unorthodox journey into pursuing a performing career, how he balances being an in-demand stylist while being busy and booked and just enjoy his overall infectious energy Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekl...

We delve into the world of fashion and personal style with renowned stylist George Brescia. From his beginnings in theater to becoming a fashion icon, George shares his journey and insights on how clothing can transform not just your look, but your life. Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.co...

this is an excerpt from a patreon exclusive episode The intricate balance between faith and belief in oneself - how do they interplay in one's creative journey? Mike and Joshua get personal, as always, and have a conversation that offers a thoughtful examination of what it means to pursue a creative life.  Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&am...

The dynamic husband-and-husband duo behind Brainstorm Theatrics, Frank Galgano and Matt Castle, blend musical storytelling with innovative orchestration, working with legends like Kristin Chenoweth and Carole King. Learn more about the unique synergy that fuels their artistic partnership, insightful musical dramaturgy and witty banter. Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusi...

Joshua sits down with Molly Smith, the former artistic director of Arena Stage, as she shares her journey of (not exaggerating) transforming the American theater landscape. Discover her insights on leadership, creativity, and the power of community in the arts.  Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.pa...

It’s been a MINUTE friends. Mike and Joshua are back after a three month break. They discuss why they went MIA, their work together on Streetcar Named Desire, their new gig at one of the top conservatories in the world and the future of the pod Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more.  Visit https://www.patreon.com/Creative...

What if the most ambitious act in filmmaking isn't raising $20 million - but refusing to wait for permission to create? In this episode of Creative Risk, Joshua sits down with the visionary duo behind the acclaimed film Strawberry Mansion, Kentucker Audley and Albert Birney, to tear apart every assumption about what it takes to make cinematic magic. These filmmakers didn't just make a st...

In this  episode of Raw + Rising, Joshua sits down with multi-hyphenate powerhouse Ross Shenker to demolish every assumption about creative specialization. As an associate casting director, playwright, director, classically trained pianist, AND certified Michael Chekhov teacher, Ross embodies what it means to reject industry gatekeeping and build a career that defies categorization  This isn'...

What if the most essential conversations about intimacy coordination aren't happening in rehearsal rooms - but in producer offices and casting sessions? In this episode, Joshua sits down with intimacy coordinator and movement expert Alexis Black to tear apart every assumption about staged intimacy work. From the reality that most productions treat intimacy coordination like a luxury add-on to...

THIS IS A SEGMENET FROM A PATREON EXCLUSIVE EPISODE We all know money is the number one killer of artistic dreams. In this episode the boys confront the uncomfortable truth about why budgeting feels impossible when you're pursuing work that feeds your soul more than your bank account. From the emotional mindf**k of tracking expenses to the harsh reality that most artists would rather stay fin...

In this episode of Raw + Rising, Joshua sits down with Michael Herwitz, the visionary director behind Job by Max Wolf Friedlich - the unlikely theatrical phenomenon that journeyed from festival to off-Broadway to Broadway, defying every industry expectation along the way. From his early days observing tech as a child actor on Broadway to being the youngest director represented on Broadway in the 2...

What does it really take to build and sustain a voice for the modern Broadway stage? In this episode of Creative Risk, Joshua sits down with Mike Ruckles, one of New York City's most sought-after vocal technicians and singing voice specialists. Working with Tony, Grammy, and Oscar-winning performers across Broadway, the West End, and beyond, Mike has become the go-to expert for artists naviga...

What happens when pure joy meets unwavering work ethic in one of Broadway's most demanding jobs? In this episode of Raw + Rising, Joshua sits down with Treston J. Henderson, the magnetic performer whose rise from TikTok discovery to Broadway debut exemplifies the power of authentic hustle. From booking the tour of Ain't Too Proud through social media to swinging in his Broadway debut, Tr...

What does it truly mean to be a theater critic in the digital age? In this compelling episode of Creative Risk, Joshua sits down with Mickey-Jo Boucher, the brilliant force behind MickeyJoTheatre, the world's largest YouTube channel dedicated to theater criticism. From his early days as a math student who stumbled into musical theater society, Mickey-Jo has carved a unique path, building an o...

What does it really mean to “show up” online as an artist in 2025? In this episode, Mike and Joshua get ruthlessly honest about the highs, lows, and existential weirdness of building creative community in the digital era. From the myth that social platforms are just “marketing tools,” to the radical truth that emotional investment - not just content - is king, the duo pull back the curtain on what...