Defining Creativity Podcast [October 21, 2026]
E23: A Music Industry Leader—Educator's Definition of Creativity with:
What happens when a career spent at the intersection of music, business, leadership, and education shapes one's understanding of creativity?
In this episode of Defining Creativity, I speak with Michael Sammis, Chair of Indiana University's Music Business Program and former Executive Vice President of Operations and Chief Financial Officer Worldwide for Universal Music Publishing. Drawing on nearly four decades in the music industry, Michael offers a perspective that challenges common assumptions that creativity belongs primarily to artists, performers, or composers.
Our conversation explores creativity as a vital force in leadership, operational problem-solving, strategic thinking, and innovation. Michael reflects on lessons learned throughout his career, the importance of collaboration and networking, and the value of working across disciplines rather than within rigid categories. We also discuss emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and the opportunities and challenges they present for creative work and human connection.
Ultimately, Micheal defines creativity as both a bridge to innovation and a means of imagining possibilities beyond the present, reminding us that creativity is not confied to the arts but is essential to shaping the future.
I like to function in the gray. I believe the creative mind is stimulated in the gray. I don't want to say 'yes,' and I don't want to say 'no,' but let's find a way to work that out... let's be solution-oriented."
~Michael Sammis
A Different Perspective on Creativity
Many conversations on creativity focus on artists, performers, inventors, and entrepreneurs. Michael's perspective emerges from a career spent leading organizations, building systems, solving problems, and connecting people. His definition reminds us that creativity is not only about generating ideas but also about creating the conditions that allow ideas to succeed.
"Creativity is not only a bridge to innovation, but it also... ignites innovation and hopefully sparks problem solving that will help us create a better future."
