James Barbour

Why Artists Need to Think Like Entrepreneurs – Advice from James Barbour James Barbour explains why artists must embrace the entrepreneurial mindset to thrive in today’s creative world, and how Star Power is helping lead that shift. Artists are some of the most creative, committed, and courageous people I know. But too often, they’re told to wait. To audition. To get picked. Here’s the truth: if you’re waiting to be chosen, you’re handing over the pen to someone else to write your story. In my years on Broadway, I learned that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. What separates the ones who sustain a career from those who burn out? It’s not just skill. It’s strategy. That’s why I believe every artist must think like an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs build platforms. They find their audience. They create value and connection. And most importantly, they don’t wait for permission to start. The same applies to you if you're a singer, actor, dancer, writer, or creator of...

James Barbour: From Broadway to Boardroom – My Journey Beyond the Stage From starring roles on Broadway to empowering entrepreneurs and creatives, James Barbour shares the story behind his transition and new mission. Most people know me as the guy behind the mask in Phantom of the Opera , or as the leading man in Beauty and the Beast , Jane Eyre , and A Tale of Two Cities . For decades, I stood in front of hundreds of thousands, singing stories that weren’t mine. And I loved every second of it. But there comes a moment when even the loudest applause starts to fade. Not because the spotlight dims, but because something inside you wants to light a new stage. That moment happened for me when I realized I could use my voice not just to perform, but to transform. To help others. To inspire artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs to own their power, their stories, and their voices. I’ve lived through the highest highs of show business and the gut-punching lows. I’ve experienced t...

We live in a world that constantly whispers, “Wait.” Wait until you’re ready. Wait until you have more experience. Wait until the stars align and the conditions are perfect. But here’s the truth most people won’t tell you: You don’t need permission to become the person you were born to be. Let that sink in. You don’t need someone to anoint you with approval before you step into your purpose. You don’t need a flawless plan. You don’t need a green light from the world. What you need is belief. Not in systems or strategies—those will come. But in yourself. In your fire. In the quiet voice that’s been whispering, “You’re made for more.” Here’s what I’ve learned after years on stage, in boardrooms, and sitting with people chasing dreams that felt too big to speak aloud: The only way to find your power… is to step into it. Start messy. Start unsure. Start with your heart pounding and your palms sweating. Because clarity is a result of movement. And momentum doesn’t come ...