Breaking the Biz Podcast

In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we speak with Oksana® Kolesnikova, a classically trained pianist turned entrepreneur and educator, who has built a thriving business at the intersection of the arts and education. As CEO of Oksana® Franchising International, Inc., and founder of Oksana® Management Group, Oksana® Enrichment Programs, and the Oksana® Foundation, she shares how she transformed her passion for music into a multi-bra...

What does it take to guide an artist from underground buzz to mainstream success? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Holland, the powerhouse manager behind Grammy-nominated artists like Logic and 6ix. With years of experience in music, film, and social media management, Mike has mastered the art of artist development, marketing strategy, and navigating the ever-evolving music industry.

From consulting with major labels to mappin...

Laughter has no barriers, and neither does Steve! By day, he's shaping young minds as a substitute teacher, but by night, he takes the stage as a stand-up comedian, proving that humor and perseverance go hand in hand. Born with Muscular Dystrophy, Steve has never let his disability define him—whether he's performing in New York's comedy clubs, giving motivational speeches across the country, or starring in the web se...

For the past decade, Jeff has been making his mark in the entertainment industry as a key player at Videndum Production Solutions. Born and raised in Connecticut, Jeff was diagnosed at birth with arthrogryposis and has used a wheelchair for mobility throughout his life. His passion for the industry is matched by his commitment to disability advocacy, educating others on accessibility and inclusion wherever he can.

In this episode, w...

In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we explore how creativity, technology, and determination converge to redefine accessibility. Our guest, Haim Kairy, co-founder of Arcana Instruments, shares his remarkable journey from a career in cyber defense and tech consulting to developing the world’s first inclusive music instrument. With a rich background as a software developer, musician, and entrepreneur, Haim has consistently challenge...

In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we’re joined by Laurie B. Kirby, Esq., a trailblazing producer, attorney, and thought leader in the entertainment and events industry. As the powerhouse behind FestForums and Best of the Fests, Laurie brings decades of experience shaping unforgettable festivals that celebrate music, film, food, and wine.

From her beginnings as a prominent attorney representing professional athletes and nonprofits...

In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we sit down with Evan B. Stone, a powerhouse in the world of production, cinematography, and documentary filmmaking. From groundbreaking projects like Expedition Unknown, Naked & Afraid, and Shark Week to his Emmy-winning work, Evan shares his journey of breaking into the entertainment industry, crafting compelling stories, and navigating the challenges of producing award-winning content. Wi...

Jake Hollander joins us to discuss his incredible journey through the world of animation as a Supervising Director, Writer, and Creator. From working on fan-favorite series like Krapopolis and Duncanville to creating original IPs, Jake shares how his love of storytelling—shaped by fantasy and sci-fi classics like those of Isaac Asimov and J.R.R. Tolkien—informs his creative process. Tune in to hear how Jake’s passion for mythology,...

In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we dive into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of live television with Philip Dvorak, an accomplished associate director with 20 years of experience in TV production. Phil specializes in control room operations for live news and sports programming, ensuring all elements are perfectly timed and ready for directors to execute on-air.

From his nearly two-decade tenure with Access Hollywood to his ...

In this episode, we explore the role of accessibility in entertainment with the Live Nation Director of Fan Services & Accessibility for Venues. Discover how scalable, fan-centered programs and seamless experiences are designed for fans of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities. From conducting accessibility audits to collaborating across teams, this conversation reveals the challenges and triumphs of creating inclu...

Emma “EMM” Norris is an American alternative-pop singer, songwriter, producer, and content creator from Traverse City, Michigan, based in Los Angeles.She was one of the first women to release a full-length album, “Burning in the Dark,” which she created in its entirety from start to finish, including writing, producing, performing, mixing and mastering. 

Curve (magazine) described EMM, saying, "She is the definition o...

Original Recording Date: 9/16/24

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Zian Chavez, producer of We Are the Most Beautiful People | Adults with Disabilities, an award-winning documentary that’s reshaping perceptions of beauty and disability worldwide. Through compelling stories from adults with disabilities across cultures, the film confronts ableism, racism, and the distinction between Disability Rights and Disability...

Original Recording Date: August 22

Carly Webster joins us and brings many important topics to the table, including her personal journey from fan to advocate, and the importance of accessible concert experiences. Carly shares how her teenage years spent in entertainment fandom opened her eyes to the deep lack of representation and support for disabled people in music spaces. At just 15, she founded a nonprofit dedicated to ...

Original Recording Date: August 19, 2024

Zhara is the president and CEO of Auracle Productions-- a female owned and operated production company that celebrates the badasserie of women worldwide. The company writes, develops, and produces television, film, and media content that highlights female-driven stories and book adaptations with authentic female characters.

Zhara is also an innovator in the field of autism ...

Original Recording Date: Aug. 14, 2024
Viselman has achieved something close to legendary status …” New York Times. A true showman, Viselman has an unmatched reputation for taking unknown or faltering toy properties and turning them into overnight sensations… many liken him to the Tom Hanks character in the movie “Big," a kid in a grownup's body…” Inc Magazine. By the age of 30, Viselman was responsible for over $2 bi...

Original Recording Date: August 12, 2024

Believe it or not, you’ve probably already heard Nomad’s guitar playing! With an impressive resume that spans countless TV shows and movie scores, Nomad has also shared the stage and studio with musical icons like Aretha Franklin, Beyoncé, Celine Dion, Sting, and many more. In this episode, Nomad takes us through his journey from a passionate musician to a true Career Musician. He s...

Original Recording Date: August 7, 2024
In this episode, we sit down with Alex, a visionary visual artist and founder of Blu Star Productions LLC, based in Orange County, California. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of two, Alex was once told he would never be able to hold a job. Fast forward 24 years, and Alex has defied the odds, winning multiple awards and receiving national recognition for his groundbreaki...

Original Recording Date: Aug. 1, 2024
Emmy and Annie Award-winning Jorge R. Gutierrez joins us to discuss his remarkable journey in the animation industry. Proudly on the autism spectrum, Jorge shares how his Mexican heritage and passion for pop and folk culture have shaped his creative vision. From directing the Golden Globe-nominated "The Book of Life" to the Emmy-winning series "El Tigre: The Adventures of Man...

Original Recording Date: July 26, 2024

In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we’re thrilled to sit down with Jason Galvin, a seasoned sports broadcaster who has worn many hats in the world of journalism. From covering breaking news for USA Today Sports to play-by-play announcing on the Pac-12 Digital Networks, Jason’s journey has taken him to some of the most exciting corners of the sports world.

Now the official a...