Talent, Film and the Grind Behind Success
With Riley Jubbie, Founder, SM Collective
Riley Jubbie on going from break dancer to producer and director, building a talent and production agency, burnout, and what he learned on set with major artists.
From the show notes
Today on Founders Mindset Unfiltered, we’re joined by Riley Jubbie, founder of SM Collectives Agency - a creative force in talent management, video production, and live events.
Riley shares his journey from break dancer to producer and director, how he built his agency from the ground up, the reality of burnout, the grind behind success, and what he learned working with artists like Akon and Stormzy.
He opens up about leadership, spotting talent, the pressure of doing everything yourself, and the power of relationships in the industry. A raw and inspiring conversation about passion, discipline, and creative resilience.
Email: sdmbrum@gmail.com
Timestamps
- 00:00Intro
- 04:42Building and trusting a team
- 09:36From dancer to agency founder
- 17:46Handling challenges in music video production
- 23:15Filming tricks and entertainment industry truths
- 25:45Networking and building industry relationships
- 29:36Music video production process
- 36:28Understanding and recognizing talent
- 44:24Managing client satisfaction and expectations
- 49:59Handling live event challenges
- 54:29Family support and early influences
- 01:00:01Support system and mindset
- 01:01:17Hiring criteria and attention to detail
- 01:04:31Letting employees go and leadership approach
- 01:06:49Learning business from family and early jobs
- 01:10:54Starting a business: preparation and flexibility
- 01:13:14Dealing with creative burnout
- 01:16:14Working with Akon and Stormzy
- 01:20:37Importance of persistence and networking
- 01:24:42Agency pitch and business overview
- 01:26:32Request for advice and audience engagement