Making art is one thing.Making it sustainable is another.In this episode of Real Work, Geoff Anderson shares the honest reality of turning poetry into a business—without hollowing out the heart of the work itself.This is a grounded conversation about craft, discipline, and the often invisible labor behind creative careers. We talk about what it really takes to let art pay the bills while protecting meaning, voice, and integrity.In this episode, we explore:The tension between creative freedom and financial survivalWhat poets and artists misunderstand about “monetizing” their workHow discipline supports creativity instead of killing itWhy the business side of art doesn’t have to erase the soulIf you’re a creative trying to make your work last—not just launch—this episode is for you.This isn’t about shortcuts.It’s about doing the real work.🎙️ Part of the Real Work series📺 Listen or watch wherever you get your podcastsLearn more / connect with GeoffGeoff Anderson is the founder of Fluent American and the author of 4 Step American Accent, focused on improving communication for speakers of all languages, especially in English. He is also the founder of diVERSES, guiding poets and artists toward creative and financial independence, and runs The Stanza, Columbus, Ohio’s first and only poetry-dedicated venue.His essay collection, Meditations for the Independent Poet, explores the intersection of poetry, art, and business.🌐 Websites➡️ https://fluentamerican.com➡️ https://diversespoetry.com▶️ YouTube Channels➡️ Fluent American — @fluentamerican➡️ Fluent American Shadowing — @fluentamericanshadowing➡️ Schwa Mill — @schwamill➡️ Geoff Anderson — @geoffanderson➡️ diVERSES Poetry — @diversespoetry

Improv isn’t just about being funny—it’s about listening, adaptability, and showing up prepared.

In this episode of Real Work, Vince Ricci, founder of City Stages, breaks down what real improv training looks like and why it matters for performers, professionals, and anyone building confidence under pressure.

Vince shares how structured improv training develops presence, collaboration, and decision-making skills that transfer far beyond the stage. Whether you’re an actor, speaker, or working professional, this conversation focuses on using improv as a practical tool—not a party trick.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What separates real improv training from casual performance

• How improv builds confidence, focus, and adaptability

• Why listening is the most important improv skill

• Preparing for industry work, not just the classroom

• How improv strengthens communication in everyday life

This is not about shortcuts or hype.
It’s about doing the real work that makes growth visible—on stage and off.

🎙️ Part of the Real Work podcast
📺 Watch or listen wherever you get your podcasts

Vince Ricci is the founder of City Stages.
📅 His upcoming class takes place on February 19.

➡️ Sign up & learn more: https://www.citystages.com
📩 Questions or details about the attached audio file: citystages@gmail.com

🎭 Training & Industry Resources

The real work of MBA admissions coaching extends far beyond the application! In this session, John Couke, MBA Coach for top-tier US universities, reveals how he supports high-achieving professionals get into a top-tier MBA program like HBS, Stanford GSB, or Wharton. John works after successful acceptance preparing clients for the complex career transitions and post-MBA success.

➡️ Book a consultation with John Couke here: https://johncouke.com/

➡️ Subscribe for more elite MBA and Leadership content!

#MBAAdmissions #AdmissionsCoaching #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerTransition #TopTierMBA #JohnCouke

Learn more/contact John:
➡️ https://johncouke.com/
➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncouke/
➡️ john.couke@gmail.com