Best Matt Hugg Podcasts (2025)

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What happens when food insecurity and arts funding collide? 10:49

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1M ago10:49

10:49

What happens when food insecurity and arts funding collide? In this conversation, Angela Meleca and Lynnette Shy (Confluence Arts Solutions) explore how we can discuss the arts' impact in a world where millions face hunger and crises of basic needs. Angela challenges arts leaders to reframe their messaging so it isn't tone-deaf to broader societal …

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Stop Selling Your Shortfalls 6:44

4M ago6:44

6:44

When your funding pitch starts with a budget gap, you position your organization as a cost. When you start with the gap in your community, you position yourself as the solution — and solutions get funded. In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca shares how arts leaders can shift their messaging to lead with impact, not shortfalls. Drawing f…

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Why We Keep Proving the Wrong Case for Arts Funding 6:32

4M ago6:32

6:32

Are you still trying to prove your value with ticket sales and attendance numbers—only to see funding stay flat or disappear altogether? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca exposes why the traditional case for arts funding no longer works—and what we must do differently if we want sustainable investment in the arts. You'll hear how 20 …

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When Words Disappear: Leading with DEI in Our DNA 32:37

7M ago32:37

32:37

Across the country, DEI language is quietly being erased—from strategic plans to university websites. But if the words are gone, what remains? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with a group of arts policy students from Miami University to explore what it means to lead with values when the language is no longer safe. Togethe…

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This Will Change Arts Funding Forever 34:54

7M ago34:54

34:54

If your organization serves 100 students, what happens to those students? In this episode, Alan Harrison, author of Scene Change, delivers a sobering truth: producing art is no longer enough. In a post-NEA world, funders will demand data, not anecdotes. We unpack: Why arts nonprofits are losing funding—and relevance The difference between teaching …

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Future-Proofing the Arts: Skills, Strategy, and Impact 32:21

8M ago32:21

32:21

What does it take to future-proof the arts? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela P. Meleca is joined by arts entrepreneur and professor Jeffrey Nytch to address the pressing need for new skills, models, and approaches to make a lasting impact. Angela and Jeffrey explore why arts organizations must move beyond adapting — and start leading — by …

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The Power of Perseverance and Community in the Arts 18:52

8M ago18:52

18:52

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela P. Meleca sits down with Wilma K. Mullet, Executive Director of the Tuscarawas Arts Partnership, for a powerful conversation about resilience, resourcefulness, and redefining what the arts mean to a community. Wilma shares the challenges and triumphs of leading a rural arts organization in Tuscarawas County…

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Unleashing Creativity with Crayola: Victoria Lozano on Why It's a Life Skill, Not an Extra 27:33

8M ago27:33

27:33

What if creativity isn't just something kids do—but something we all need to thrive? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca is joined by Victoria Lozano, EVP of Marketing at Crayola. Together, they discuss why creativity is one of the most critical life skills we can nurture—not just in children, but across every profession. From reimagin…

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There is no failure—only giving up. | Neno Littlewood 27:02

8M ago27:02

27:02

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with writer, creative mentor, and Rebel Writers Workshop founder Neno Littlewood for a refreshingly honest conversation about how we create, evolve, and keep going—even when life gets messy. From navigating ADHD and dyslexia to building a creative business and reshaping her personal identit…

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Is Fundraising an Art? Matt Hugg on Creative Strategies for Arts Nonprofits 27:50

9M ago27:50

27:50

Is it possible that arts fundraising is its own art form? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca is joined by Matt Hugg—founder of Nonprofit.Courses and expert in nonprofit fundraising. Together, they challenge conventional approaches to development and explore how creativity isn't just for the stage or the canvas—it's the secret weapon i…

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Turn Advocacy into Activism and Activism into Running for Office with Tom Tresser 30:18

9M ago30:18

30:18

Are the arts once again under attack? In this powerful episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with Tom Tresser, a renowned civic educator, grassroots advocate, and tireless champion of democracy and creative freedom. Tom reveals why the arts and nonprofit sectors must urgently evolve from advocacy to activism—and why, ultimately, creati…

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Why Arts Funding Is Disappearing – And What We Can Do About It 30:10

9M ago30:10

30:10

What happens when the system designed to support the arts starts narrowing the door of opportunity? Josh Benson, Executive Director of the Marion Cultural and Civic Center, mural artist, and co-host of There's No Business Like podcast, joins me to talk about the funding challenges facing arts organizations today. From shifting National Endowment fo…

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From Theatre to Corporate Success: How Arts Graduates Have the Ultimate Job Advantage 14:11

9M ago14:11

14:11

We have raised a generation afraid to talk to people—hesitant to make a phone call, nervous about face-to-face interactions, and struggling with basic workplace communication. But here's the thing: theatre and the performing arts have always been the ultimate training ground for real human connection. In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Melec…

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AI for Arts Leaders: Save Time, Boost Creativity & Stay Relevant 14:00

10M ago14:00

14:00

What if AI could give you 10+ hours back every week? AI isn't replacing artists—it's helping us reclaim time for creativity, strategy, and impact. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Fornito to show you exactly how AI can be your best creative tool—not your competition. AI isn't replacing artists—it's removing barriers that keep us from creating.…

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How AI Gives You 10 Hours Back—And Makes You More Creative - Matt Fornito 41:25

10M ago41:25

41:25

AI isn't here to replace creativity—it's here to amplify it. But how do we ensure AI gives us time back instead of adding more meetings and inefficiencies? And more importantly, how do we use that time to focus on creativity, innovation, and impact? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with Matt Fornito ⁠www.theaiag.com⁠, AI e…

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Rebuilding from Burnout: How to Redesign Your Creative Life 26:00

10M ago26:00

26:00

What happens when burnout takes over your creative career? Amanda Greaves, award-winning interior designer turned personal transformation coach, shares how she walked away from success to reclaim her purpose. In this episode, we discuss the power of self-reflection, breaking free from expectations, and the steps to realigning your work with your we…

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Breaking the Creative Stereotype: Why Society Needs Us More Than Ever 41:13

10M ago41:13

41:13

Creatives don't just make things look good—we solve problems. But if we don't explain the complexity of our work, how can we expect others to value it? In this episode, architect and CEO Tim Hawk joins ARTS Redefined to tackle the biggest misconceptions about creative work, why society desperately needs more creative problem-solvers, and how we can…

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The Shift from Starving Artist to Creator Economy 21:53

10M ago21:53

21:53

Artists are often the first to revitalize communities—so why do they keep getting priced out? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with Al Delorenzo to explore how we can integrate artists into community development from the start, ensuring they thrive instead of being displaced. We dive into: Innovative models like co-ops and…

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The Power of Dance: Measuring Impact Beyond Movement with Rachel Nace 33:12

11M ago33:12

33:12

How can dance transform lives beyond the stage? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with Rachel Nace, Artistic Director of Oyo Dance Company, to explore the profound impact of dance on individuals and communities. Rachel shares her journey of leading a diverse and inclusive dance company that focuses on social justice, emotio…

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Can creativity reshape the way we approach business and leadership? 28:24

11M ago28:24

28:24

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with Sam Krall https://utulsa.edu/people/sam-krall/ to explore how arts management programs are bridging the gap between creativity and commerce. Together, they discuss the role of interdisciplinary education, the infusion of humanity into traditionally transactional business models, and wh…

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7 Steps to Market Smarter and Thrive as an Arts Leader 6:29

11M ago6:29

6:29

Feeling stuck in outdated marketing strategies? Join me as I outline seven essential steps according to marketing expert Lynette Shy, to redefine your arts organization's marketing approach. From embracing digital to breaking down silos, these practical tips will help you engage audiences and grow revenue. Whether you're leading a small nonprofit o…

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From Chaos to Clarity: Digital Marketing for Arts Leaders - ARTS Redefined 36:50

11M ago36:50

36:50

Discover actionable tips to revolutionize your marketing and communication strategies for arts organizations. Angela Meleca and Lynette Shy dive into the importance of digital engagement, prioritizing tasks, and crafting content that truly resonates with audiences. Learn how to transform chaos into clarity and build sustainable growth for your orga…

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For-Profit Creatives: Breaking Stigmas and Building Impact 36:03

11M ago36:03

36:03

In this episode, Angela Meleca and Tim Sidel uncover the unique struggles of for-profit creatives in a nonprofit-dominated arts ecosystem. From rethinking how we support creative businesses to advocating for better arts education, this conversation offers actionable insights to strengthen the arts sector. To Schedule a call with Angela on how you c…

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Bridging the Gap: Business Skills for Arts Students 33:38

12M ago33:38

33:38

Arts students are graduating without the business skills they need to thrive. Leigh Ann Cannady shares actionable advice on how educators can better prepare students for the real world, combining creativity with financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Want to empower arts students with real-world skills? Tune in to this episode, and d…

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Connect the Dots: Making the Arts Matter to Lawmakers 6:08

12M ago6:08

6:08

Are you tired of arts advocacy falling flat? Angela Meleca shares actionable strategies to align your arts programs with lawmakers' priorities. Learn how to frame your impact around workforce development, mental health, and community safety to gain lasting support for your work. To learn how to create actionable advocacy to increase your relevance,…

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The Future of Arts Funding: How to Measure Empathy, Kindness, and Creativity 3:45

12M ago3:45

3:45

Feeling frustrated trying to prove the value of your arts programs? Join me as I speak with Sheri Chaney Jones, founder of SureImpact, about why data measurement is the future of arts funding. In this video, we explore: 1. How to measure empathy, creativity, and kindness. 2. Why are current advocacy methods focusing on economic impact failing? 3. A…

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Reframing Arts Impact: Workforce Development Through Creativity with Matthew Gellin 38:22

1y ago38:22

38:22

Discover how Matthew Gellin, Artistic Director of American Legacy Theatre, uses theater as a tool for workforce development and community transformation. Learn actionable strategies for connecting your arts programs with funders, measuring impact effectively, and building innovative cross-sector partnerships. Tune in for insights that redefine the …

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#26 - Rethinking Failure: Lessons for the Arts Sector 35:10

1y ago35:10

35:10

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Rachel Skaggs challenges the stigma of failure in the arts, revealing how embracing missteps can lead to meaningful innovation and growth. Discover why failure is an overlooked aspect of the creative process, how funders and organizations can learn from it, and why shifting our narrative around failure is essentia…

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Abbreviated Recap: Lucas Miller's Advice on Building a Creative Business 9:48

1y ago9:48

9:48

In this abbreviated recap of Episode 24, Lucas Miller, the Singing Zoologist, shares practical advice for artists and creatives looking to transform their passion into a sustainable business. From embracing authenticity to finding your niche and connecting with audiences, Lucas offers actionable insights to help you thrive in the creative economy. …

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From Passion to Career: How Lucas Miller Built a Business Around Art and Science 43:17

1y ago43:17

43:17

What does it take to turn your passion into a thriving career? Lucas Miller, the Singing Zoologist, shares how he combined music, science, and storytelling to build a sustainable business that educates and inspires. Tune in for practical tips on finding your niche, embracing authenticity, and treating your Art like a business. Can Prairie Dogs Talk…

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Authentic Storytelling vs. AI: Tavia Gilbert on Voice, Creativity, and the Future of Audiobooks 43:12

1y ago43:12

43:12

What makes the human voice irreplaceable in storytelling? In this episode, Tavia Gilbert, an award-winning audiobook narrator and producer, explores the evolving audiobook industry, the power of authentic human creativity, and the impact of AI on the arts. Discover why storytelling through voice matters, how creativity shapes industries, and why hu…

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Episode 22: Healing Through Art: How Creative Therapy Supports Veterans' Mental Health 38:06

1y ago38:06

38:06

On this special Veterans Day episode, host Angela Meleca talks with Heather Seymour, founder of the Veterans Arts Initiative at the Central Ohio VA, and Daniel King, a veteran and artist, about how creative arts transform veterans' mental health. Heather shares how the Initiative uses art to help veterans connect, overcome isolation, and heal from …

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Funding the Future of the Arts: Insights from Dr. Mark Lomax II on Building Lasting Partnerships and Measuring Impact 53:45

1y ago53:45

53:45

Join Dr. Mark Lomax II and Angela Meleca as they explore the evolving world of arts funding post-pandemic. Dr. Lomax offers unique insights on how arts organizations can build deeper relationships with funders, craft data-driven impact narratives, and leverage storytelling to secure sustainable support. Discover why innovation, digital engagement, …

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Redefining Art Accessibility: Supporting Artists Beyond the Creative Process with Celina Nader 33:06

1y ago33:06

33:06

How can we redefine art accessibility to support artists truly? In this episode, Angela Meleca talks with chef and writer Celina Nader about the importance of holistic support for artists, the unseen challenges they face, and the role of community in fostering creativity. This conversation dives into redefining how we value art by supporting the pe…

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#19 Why Are We Still Explaining Creativity? with Jason Blair 39:19

1y ago39:19

39:19

In this episode, Angela sits down with Jason Blair, an innovative arts educator, to tackle a surprising question: Why do so many administrators still struggle to connect creativity with the arts? Together, they explore how arts education is crucial for developing the creative problem-solvers we need and the frustrating reality of advocating for the…

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Engaging Non-Customers for Growth with Dave Wakeman 15:43

1y ago15:43

15:43

In this abbreviated episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela speaks with pricing expert Dave Wakeman about why discounts are for dummies and how his "3 P's of Pricing" can help arts organizations build long-term success. Dave shares insights on using Process, Price, and Promotion to drive demand and grow audiences without sacrificing profitability. If you…

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Unlocking the Power of Arts Advocacy: How Creativity Drives Economic Growth and Community Transformation with David Weaver 40:03

1y ago40:03

40:03

In this episode, Angela talks with David Weaver, former Executive Director of Ohioana, about the power of arts advocacy and its vital role in shaping community identity and economic development. Together, they explore the disconnect between public perception of the arts and actual financial support, while offering strategies to bridge that gap. Thi…

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The Power of Saying No in Business & Creativity 28:02

1y ago28:02

28:02

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela speaks with creative entrepreneur Catherine Lang-Cline about the vital connection between creativity, entrepreneurship, and the arts. Catherine shares her journey advocating for artists, highlighting the challenges of negotiating their worth and the role creativity plays in driving innovation. They also exp…

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Why Discounting Kills Your Arts Brand: Marketing Strategies with Dave Wakeman 1:05:29

1y ago1:05:29

1:05:29

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela talks with marketing expert Dave Wakeman about the evolving landscape of arts marketing. They explore why arts organizations need to rethink traditional marketing strategies, emphasize long-term brand building, and engage both customers and non-customers effectively. Dave also shares insights on the dangers…

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Exploring Belonging and Identity Through Art: Julie Rae Powers' Journey of Self-Discovery 40:10

1y ago40:10

40:10

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela sits down with photographer and author Julie Rae Powers to discuss her book Deep Ruts and the deeply personal journey of self-discovery that shaped it. As an artist from Appalachia, Julie shares how her work explores themes of identity, belonging, and vulnerability. Tune in to hear how art became a tool for…

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The Art of Missing Out: How FOMO is Revolutionizing Arts Attendance 36:08

1y ago36:08

36:08

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca speaks with Professor Jim O'Connell, a seasoned arts management expert, about the transformative power of the arts and the challenges of audience development in a changing landscape. They discuss the unique role of empathy in defining the arts, the ephemeral nature of live performance, and the import…

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Art as Identity in Appalachia with Amanda Page 29:42

1y ago29:42

29:42

In this episode of ARTS Redefined, I sit down with Amanda Page—author, filmmaker, and founder of Scioto Literary—to explore how living authentically fuels mental health and creativity. We dive into the power of art to revitalize communities, especially in rural Appalachia, and discuss how family support, humanities interventions, and shifting the a…

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Why Creativity is Your Most Important Business Skill 31:09

1y ago31:09

31:09

In this episode, Todd Stuart, Program Director of Arts Management, Arts Entrepreneurship at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, explores the evolving landscape of arts management education and the growing need for collaboration between artistic disciplines and business practices. He discusses the skills gap in traditional arts education, emphasizing …

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Unlocking Creativity: Overcoming Challenges and Redefining Art 46:22

1y ago46:22

46:22

In this episode, I speak with Susie DeVille, author of ⁠Buoyant⁠, about the power of creativity in overcoming challenges and fostering innovation. We explore how creativity is accessible to everyone, its transformative role in personal and professional growth, and the importance of engaging boards and stakeholders in the arts through storytelling a…

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Experience the New Renaissance: How Today's Art is Redefining Creativity 25:01

1y ago25:01

25:01

In this episode, Angela and Christy Farnbaugh explore the shifting landscape of arts funding and the critical need for organizations to showcase their public value. They discuss how empathy and creativity can serve as essential metrics for impact and emphasize the power of storytelling in arts advocacy. Addressing barriers to participation and evol…

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Accessibility of Art: A U.S. Challenge 25:42

1y ago25:42

25:42

In this episode, Angela talks with Benjamin Adda about the differences in how art is experienced in France compared to the U.S. Ben shares insights on making art more accessible, integrating it into daily life, and shifting away from the notion that art is just for the elite. Gain a fresh perspective on fostering audience engagement and redefining …

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Bridging the Gap: Technology and the Arts 31:47

1y ago31:47

31:47

In this episode, we explore how technology can revolutionize arts administration and management with Brett Crawford, co-author of "Raising the Curtain." We delve into the challenges arts organizations face in leveraging technology, from internal communications to audience engagement, and discuss how the right tools and strategies can streamline ope…

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How Fashion Builds Community and Creates Pathways 29:34

1y ago29:34

29:34

I sit down with Yogi Terrell from the Columbus Fashion Alliance to explore the powerful connection between culture, economic development, and the arts. We discuss how investing in authentic culture can drive sustainable growth, create opportunities for underserved communities, and build ecosystems that fuel creativity and innovation. Together, we r…

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Measuring Arts Impact in Rural Communities 33:57

1+ y ago33:57

33:57

In this episode, Elise Kiefer discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of managing rural arts organizations. She emphasizes the importance of adopting strategies tailored to rural communities, focusing on mission-driven fundraising and community engagement. Elise also explores how redefining the arts in rural areas and measuring impact bey…

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Transforming the Corporate World with Visual Literacy 36:18

1+ y ago36:18

36:18

Explore how visual literacy is transforming corporate safety and performance in this episode with Doug Pontsler, Chairman of the Center for Visual Expertise (COVE). Doug shares his journey from industry executive to arts advocate, revealing how COVE's museum-based workshops use art education to enhance workplace safety protocols. Learn how these in…