INTERVIEW ON THE PRICE OF BUSINESS SHOW, MEDIA PARTNER OF THIS SITE.
Recently Kevin Price, Host of the nationally syndicated Price of Business Show, welcomed Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes to provide another commentary in a series.
The Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes Commentaries
Success as an artist or entrepreneur isn’t about waiting for the perfect opportunity—it’s about creating it. Many creatives rely on companies that dictate their value and income, limiting their potential. The key to true success is taking initiative, making connections, and building something of your own. Social media followers won’t pay your bills, but real clients will. Positioning yourself for success means understanding what businesses need and offering valuable solutions. Instead of waiting for work, step outside your comfort zone, develop the right skills, and take control of your creative career.
Waiting for opportunities to come your way is one of the biggest mistakes an artist or entrepreneur can make. The creative industry is highly competitive, and those who succeed aren’t necessarily the most talented—they’re the ones who take action. If you want financial and creative freedom, you must build your own opportunities instead of relying on someone else to provide them.
Why Relying on Others Limits Your Growth
Many creatives work under companies or agencies that set the rates, find the clients, and dictate the value of their work. While this offers stability, it also limits control. Some companies respect and pay creatives well, but others underpay and undervalue their contributions.
If you let someone else handle all the business aspects, you also allow them to control your career. They determine what you work on, how much you earn, and how your creativity is used. While some people are content with this structure, those who want more must take the leap and build something of their own.
The Importance of Taking Initiative
The most successful creatives aren’t necessarily the most famous or the most skilled—they are the ones who consistently take initiative. Instead of waiting for someone to recognize their talent, they put their work in front of the right people.
Building a personal brand, networking with industry professionals, and actively seeking out opportunities are all essential. It’s not just about showcasing your work—it’s about understanding what others need and positioning yourself as the best solution. If you’re not making connections and marketing your skills, you’re leaving money and opportunities on the table.
Social Media vs. Real Clients
A common mistake many artists and entrepreneurs make is equating social media engagement with success. While having a strong online presence can help, it doesn’t always translate to paid work. Your career isn’t built on likes and follows—it’s built on real clients who pay for your skills.
Instead of chasing viral content, focus on connecting with the right people:
- Business owners who invest in creative services
- Project managers who need skilled professionals
- Talent scouts and industry decision-makers
- Fellow creatives who collaborate on high-value projects
By targeting those who actually hire creatives, you shift your focus from passive exposure to active income generation.
Positioning Yourself for Success
If you’re struggling to find consistent work, the first step is identifying what businesses and individuals need. Instead of hoping for opportunities, ask potential clients about their pain points. What services do they regularly outsource? What skills are in demand that you could develop?
By positioning yourself as a valuable resource rather than just an artist looking for gigs, you make it easier for clients to choose you. Success comes from solving problems, whether that means providing creative services, offering consultations, or building a product that fills a gap in the market.
Take Control of Your Career
One great client can sustain your career, but finding them takes persistence and action. Whether you’re an artist, musician, writer, or entrepreneur, your future depends on your willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
Instead of waiting for someone to open a door for you, build your own path. Learn the skills, make the connections, and create the opportunities that will shape your success.
Are you ready to take control of your creative future?
Biography
Benjamin Barnes is a musician, artist, and entrepreneur who believes in taking control of creative opportunities. As the founder of Culture Scholar Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, he has built a career by combining music, education, and business. A former rockstar and accomplished violinist, Barnes has worked across multiple industries, helping others navigate the creative world with confidence. He shares insights through his podcast segment, The Coaches Corner, providing practical advice for artistpreneurs. Learn more about his work at his YouTube channel.
Image: Bayshore Blvd d
Available: https://bencasso.org/featured/bayshore-blvd-d-bencasso-barnesquiat.html
Background music for episode
Bach Sonata no. 3 In G major Allegro ma non Tanto https://open.spotify.com/album/0i4LSaH2L6KrnCa1h3QfBO? si=I7gpMrL-RhuHMU7QSjRiMA https://music.amazon.com/albums/B09SRNX5B5? ref=dm_sh_3595-6e49-3e46-0d69-ef16e
