How to Build Real Relationships in a Transactional Industry

Send us Fan MailStrategic and decisive leadership is essential to grow an entertainment business. Behind the glamorous facade lies relentless hard work. Leaders craft clear strategies, make tough decisions, align creative teams, manage risks, and push through challenges to turn vision into profitable success and sustained audience growth.In this episode, I had a discussion with Abby Tobias, founder of Sole Power Productions, one of Toronto’s leading entertainment and production companies. With a roster of 500+ performers and event professionals, Sole Power delivers integrated entertainment and production for over 2,500 events each year. Based in Toronto and serving major cities across North America, the team specializes in custom, end-to-end event experiences tailored to each client’s goals, style, and budget.https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-tobias-42348237/https://solepowerproductions.com/00:00 - Meet Abby Tobias: Toronto’s Entertainment Powerhouse02:15 - The Humble Beginnings of Soul Power Production04:50 - How COVID-19 Became a Catalyst for Stronger Business Models07:30 - Scaling Internationally Without Losing Control10:10 - The Secret Sauce: Relationships, Reputation, and Real Connections13:45 - Managing a Team of 26+ Staff and 70+ Contractors16:20 - Why Profitability Isn’t the Only Measure of Success19:00 - Opportunities in Expanding the Canadian Market22:45 - How Toronto Nurtures World-Class Artists and Entertainment Talent26:00 - What It Truly Takes to Build a Legacy in the Entertainment Industry30:30 - The Importance of Relationships and Personal Branding for Growth34:00 - Embracing New Technology and AI in Event Production38:50 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in the Events and Entertainment Space43:20 - How Abby Handles Government Policies and Red Tape—Spoiler: Very Smoothly47:00 - Connect with Abby Tobias: Where to Find Him and How to Collaborate