What does it take to turn sound into a language of possibility? In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we journey into the expansive world of experimental sound art, composition, and multimedia with Philip Mantione — a Los Angeles-based sound artist whose career challenges the boundaries of traditional music and embraces a world where creativity is unlimited.

With over two decades of experience, Mantione has composed for orchestra, chamber ensembles, computer, and multimedia environments, often using custom software to layer field recordings, samples, and computer-generated sound. His work spans fixed media, interactive performance, sound installations, and experimental video, embodying an artistic practice that’s both highly technical and emotionally resonant.

Mantione shares the unconventional path he took to establish himself in the entertainment and academic spheres, reflecting on how he built a career that bridges disciplines, embraces accessibility, and redefines how we think about listening. Along the way, he also explores how mentorship, innovation, and collaboration empower artists of all abilities to find their voice in spaces that often feel exclusive.

Listeners will learn:

How a career in sound art can evolve outside traditional music pathways

What it means to code your own tools as an artist

The challenges and triumphs of building inclusive spaces in multimedia art

Why embracing difference is essential to driving creative innovation

Whether you're a music lover, aspiring sound designer, or someone passionate about creating equitable futures in entertainment, this episode offers a thought-provoking dive into the sonic possibilities that surround us—and the people who make them real.

Join our conversation on social media:

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

Swedish electronic artist Tim Palm joins Breaking the Biz to discuss creativity, community, and breaking into the music industry on his own terms. From custom looping tech to AI's role in music, this episode explores the space between sound and connection—and what it means to truly vibe.

Known for his immersive style and genre-defying house tracks, Tim rejuvenates the fundamentals of House subculture by creating sonic experiences that bring people together—especially those who often feel left out of traditional spaces.

With over 140,000 followers and 92 million views, Tim has built a global community through playful soundscapes, intimate performances, and a distinctive presence online and on stage. From Seoul to Stockholm, his work invites listeners into an evolving, joyful process where accessibility and connection are at the forefront.

Hosts explore how 2024 shaped Tim's career, from his debut album to national TV and radio features. Looking ahead, we unpack what’s next in 2025—including new singles that continue to broaden his creative journey. In a space where disability empowerment meets cultural reinvention, Tim Palm reminds us: music isn’t just heard—it’s felt.

Join our conversation on social media:

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instagram.com/yic_unity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

After living with severely debilitating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for over 30 years, Nitika Chopra spent much of her life feeling isolated by her health struggles. For years, she believed this loneliness was a personal flaw—until she began opening up and discovered a shared sense of invisibility among others with chronic illness.

In this powerful episode of Breaking the Biz, we dive into Nitika’s extraordinary journey—from being a vibrant media personality and beauty brand ambassador to launching Chronicon, a groundbreaking community for those living with chronic conditions. With the success of Chronicon’s sold-out NYC debut and its expansion into a thriving online platform, Nitika has reshaped what empowerment and inclusion look like in the chronic illness space.

We explore how her experiences with pain led her to purpose, how she built a brand that prioritizes authenticity, and how she's creating space for connection where there was once silence. Her story reminds us that thriving with a disability or chronic illness is not only possible—it’s powerful.

Join our conversation on social media:

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instagram.com/breakingthebiz
instagram.com/yic_unity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

How do we bridge the gap between neurodivergent talent and meaningful employment in Hollywood? In this episode of Breaking the Biz, we speak with Judi Uttal, president of the Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG) and founder of the Autism In Entertainment Workgroup. Drawing from a powerful mix of personal experience and professional insight, Judi shares how her advocacy work—spanning career training, policy reform, and industry partnerships—is opening doors for autistic individuals in the entertainment world. Judi also reflects on raising her son Josh, now a college graduate in Cinema and Television, and how his journey shaped her mission. This conversation shines a light on the future of inclusive hiring and the role entertainment can play in normalizing neurodiversity.

Join our conversation on social media:

facebook.com/breakingthebiz
instagram.com/breakingthebiz
instagram.com/yic_unity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

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-branch enterprise that empowers both students and educators.

We explore Oksana’s journey from artist to business leader, the challenges and rewards of launching a franchise, and how she’s helping others become entrepreneurs through her enrichment programs. This conversation dives into what it means to build a mission-driven business, maintain high standards across multiple locations, and use creativity as a cornerstone of entrepreneurship.

It’s an insightful look at how purpose, persistence, and performance can come together to create lasting impact.

Join our conversation on social media:

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instagram.com/yic_unity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

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 mapping out viral marketing campaigns, Mike shares insider knowledge on what makes an artist stand out, the challenges of breaking into the business, and how streaming and social media are redefining success. Whether you're an aspiring manager, musician, or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.

Tune in as we explore the hustle, the strategy, and the vision needed to thrive in the competitive world of music management.

Join our conversation on social media:

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instagram.com/yic_unity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

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 series Uplifting Dystrophy. In this episode, we dive into Steve's journey in comedy, the challenges of breaking into the entertainment industry with a disability, and the importance of representation in media. Get ready for an inspiring, hilarious, and eye-opening conversation!

Join our conversation on social media:

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instagram.com/breakingthebiz
instagram.com/yic_unity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

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, we explore Jeff’s journey into production, his role in supporting a diverse range of creators—from independent content creators to major film studios—and the innovations shaping the industry today. Jeff also shares how his love for sports, video games, and live music fuels his creativity, and why fostering a more inclusive entertainment industry isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential for storytelling at its best.

Join our conversation on social media:

facebook.com/breakingthebiz
instagram.com/breakingthebiz
instagram.com/yic_unity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/18149713

Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org