On this episode of "The Arts Salon," we explore the current challenges facing cultural organizations like classical music presenters, museums, and non-profits. With programs shrinking, ticket sales declining, and costs rising, many institutions are looking for new leadership to navigate these troubled times. The prevailing thought is that entrepreneurial leaders—akin to founders—are the answer, promising to reshape organizations with visionary zeal. But is this approach the right fit for long-established institutions with rich histories?

We dive into the allure of charismatic leaders who draw comparisons to figures like Steve Jobs, and discuss why hiring individuals who prioritize their own visions over institutional continuity can be risky. We'll examine the importance of balancing innovation with tradition and why the hard work behind true innovation often gets overlooked. Using Edmund Burke’s social contract as a lens, we discuss how thoughtful, gradual change can preserve an organization’s ethos for future generations, as opposed to radical, disruptive shifts that risk undermining an institution’s very foundation.

Join us as we unpack the complexities of leadership in the arts and consider what it means to be a true custodian of cultural heritage in today’s challenging landscape.