Eps 2 | So He Started a Music Festival | Preston Stahly’s Advice for Creative Entrepreneurs

When I first met Preston Stahly, I knew him only as a talented New York City photographer. Later, I learned he was also a composer, a producer - and the founder of one of the longest-running music festivals in the city. That’s when I knew I had to have him on the podcast.

In this episode, Preston and I talk about how he started the Tribeca New Music Festival back in 2000 - almost 25 years ago, and how what began as a small group of composers turned into a nonprofit organization that brings contemporary music to New York stages year after year.

What I found fascinating is how similar Preston’s journey has been to many for-profit founders. He’s had to pivot, negotiate venues, manage internal tensions, grow a board, and think like a CEO - all while staying rooted in art. He also shared the nonprofit version of the sales funnel (suspects → prospects → patrons) and how he thinks about growth when your product is culture, not capital.

This episode is especially valuable for creative entrepreneurs who want to build something real and lasting - but don’t want to follow the typical startup playbook. Preston reminds us that there is a different path. And it’s working.

Whether you're in the arts or just trying to make meaningful work sustainable, this conversation is for you.

Watch this episode on YouTube.