The Artist as CEO: Debora Balardini's Blueprint for a Creative Life
Debora Balardini
When we picture a successful entrepreneur, a certain image often comes to mind—perhaps a tech founder with an MBA, relentlessly focused on growth and scale. But what if the best training for building a business doesn't happen in a boardroom, but on a stage, or in a nursery at 3 a.m.?
Meet Debora Balardini. She is a powerhouse entrepreneur, the co-founder of the elegant event venue Punto Space, the Executive Director of Group .BR (New York's only Brazilian theatre company), and the Co-Artistic Director of the Nettles Artists Collective.
Her journey reveals a powerful, unconventional truth: the core skills of an artist and a mother—resilience, intuition, and navigating chaos—are the secret weapons for building a successful, soulful business. This is her blueprint.
Lesson 1: The Artist's Mindset — Thriving on Autonomy and Resilience
Debora's path to entrepreneurship was fueled by a "deep thirst for autonomy and creative expression." For her, the goal was always to manifest her artistic vision and share it with the world. This is a journey she was well-prepared for by her life as a performing artist in New York City.
"Being an autonomous artist in New York City prepares you for almost anything in life," she says. "We are constantly dealing with rejection and having to build our own paths and businesses as we go."
The Mentor Takeaway: A creative career is a constant exercise in resilience and self-reliance. It teaches you to be resourceful, to build your own opportunities from scratch, and to handle the endless stream of "no's" without losing sight of your vision. This grit is the absolute bedrock of entrepreneurship.
Lesson 2: The Motherhood MBA — How to Lead Through Chaos and Uncertainty
While her artistic background prepared her for the hustle, Debora credits motherhood with providing her most profound entrepreneurial training. She draws a direct and powerful parallel between raising a child and running a business.
"Being a mother makes you deal with the unexpected and always trying to do your best... You just have to be present in the moment, listen... and make decisions as you go, always adjusting to what you had previously planned. Does that sound like owning a business, or what?"
The Mentor Takeaway: The skills cultivated in motherhood are not "soft skills"; they are elite leadership competencies. Managing the unexpected, being fully present, listening with deep empathy, and nurturing something from its infancy to independence are the very definition of a founder's job. This experience is a powerful, and often overlooked, MBA in itself.
Lesson 3: Your Community is Your Co-Founder
Debora's ventures were not born in isolation. The idea for Punto Space came from a business partner who saw a need for a raw, creative venue that could serve their artistic community. This spirit of collaboration is central to Debora's philosophy.
When asked who she looks up to, she doesn't name a single famous CEO. Instead, she points to the people around her.
"My business partners and the people that surround me are the ones who feed me with their anecdotes, favorite quotes, and ideologies on a daily basis... You just have to be aware and keep your eyes opened to what the universe is trying to tell you."
The Mentor Takeaway: You do not have to have all the ideas or all the answers yourself. The most sustainable and soulful businesses are often built in collaboration with and in service to a community you care about. Your greatest inspiration and support will come from the people you choose to surround yourself with.
A Legacy of Impact
Ultimately, Debora's work is driven by a desire to leave a legacy and be an inspiration for the next generation. Her journey is a powerful reminder that there is no single path to success. The skills you've honed as a creative, a mother, a community builder—these are your unique assets. Own them, trust them, and use them to build something that is authentically, unapologetically you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Debora Balardini?
Debora Balardini is a Brazilian-American entrepreneur, performing artist, director, and coach based in New York City.She is the co-founder of three distinct creative enterprises: the event venue Punto Space, NYC's only Brazilian theatre company Group .BR, and the Nettles Artists Collective.
What is Group .BR?
Founded in 2011, Group .BR is an award-winning theatre company dedicated to spreading Brazilian culture through the performance arts. It produces full-scale theatrical productions, workshops, readings, and signature cultural events.
What is Debora Balardini's advice on work-life balance?
Debora acknowledges that in the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey, she had to sacrifice a lot of family time. However, she stresses that she worked steadily to "cap it from becoming a runaway train" and is happy to have returned to a more balanced life where she can prioritize both her family and her professional projects.
How does being a mother prepare you for entrepreneurship?
Debora believes motherhood is direct preparation for the entrepreneurial life because it teaches you how to deal with the unexpected, be fully present, listen intently, and constantly adjust your plans—all core skills required to run a successful business.
Inspired by This Story? Find a Mentor Who Gets You.
A single conversation with the right guide can change everything. Stories like this show the profound impact of having an experienced, empathetic mentor in your corner.
Our network is filled with vetted, seasoned founders, C-suite executives, and industry experts who can provide the direct, unfiltered advice you need for your biggest challenges. Let us help you find the perfect match for your journey.