
Bad Decisions Podcast
Every week we promise you an opportunity to either learn something new or walk away with a fresh burst of inspiration. Our goal is to share everything we've learned and researched at Bad Decisions, a creative studio based in Vancouver and Dubai, with you. Additionally, we bring you the best in the industry, allowing them to share their journeys and knowledge.
Latest episodes

Apr 15, 2025 • 1h 33min
#68 Rebūke on Making World-Famous Music, Visuals, & the Creative Process
Rebūke is an Irish DJ and music producer. He's worked with some of the biggest names in electronic music including deadmau5 and Anyma, creating tracks like the global hit "Syren," featured on Anyma’s album Genesys. Rebūke's debut album, The World of Era, popped off with "Endless" a collaboration with deadmau5 and Ed Graves, highlighting his unique beats and signature vibe.In this episode, he talked about how music and visuals complement each other, how the live show experience is evolving, and why 3D artists are going to play a massive role in the future of the music industry. A fun fact about him is that he creates some of his own visuals and knows how to use tools like Cinema 4D, Unreal Engine, and more.Episode 68 Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:47 How Rebūke Ended Up Creating Mind-Blowing 3D Visuals13:03 How Visuals in Music Have Evolved and What’s Coming Next20:09 Rebūke on Why Visual Artists Are the New Rockstars22:42 How AI Is Changing the Game for Creatives30:02 How Rebūke Is Changing The Game In Live Visuals36:11 How Unreal Engine Is Defining A New Era For Real-Time Live Visuals43:55 THIS Is How The Top Musicians Collaborate50:44 How A Day In Rebūke's Life Looks Like53:06 Does Work-Life Balance Exist For A Creative?01:00:30 How Rebūke Manages Distractions During World Tours01:06:23 The Breakthrough That Changed Rebūke’s Life01:15:06 What They Don’t Tell You About the Music Industry01:19:08 THIS Is The Biggest Trap Young Artists Fall Into01:30:09 Rebūke's Future Projects & TourIf this podcast is helping you, please take 2 minutes to rate our podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, It will help the Podcast reach and help more people! Spotify -https://open.spotify.com/show/12jUe4lIJgxE4yst7rrfmW?si=ab98994cf57541cfApple Podcasts (Scroll down to review)- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-decisions-podcast/id1677462934Find out more about Rebūke:https://www.instagram.com/rebukemusic/https://www.youtube.com/c/RebukeMusichttps://x.com/rebukemusicSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/113reBz1jA6rVxbXl55mlj?si=xQymWh36RSeHGN3kqbyHegJoin our discord server where we connect and share assets:https://discord.gg/zwycgqezfD Bad Decisions Audio Podcast 🎙️:Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/badxstudioIf you wanna see us to do cool things follow us here too:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badxstudio/Twitter: https://twitter.com/badxstudioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@badxstudio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badxstudioOur personal handles: (if you wanna stalk us)https://www.instagram.com/farhad_baddecisions/https://www.instagram.com/faraz_baddecisions/https://www.instagram.com/farhad_sh/https://www.instagram.com/farazshababs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhadshababi/https://www.linkedin.com/in/farazshababi/#CEO #entrepreneurship #AI #3dartist #podcast #badxstudio #BadDecisionsStudio #BadDecisionsPodcast

Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 15min
#67 How ONE man can create Hollywood Level VFX with Shutter Authority with Shutter Authority
Raghav—better known as Shutter Authority — is a filmmaker and VFX artist whose cinematic short films have attracted over 4.85 million YouTube subscribers. Collaborating with major brands like Lenovo, Netflix, Google, Epic Games, and more, he's made his mark by blending action-packed storytelling with stunning visual effects.In this episode, Raghav shares his incredible journey from dropping out of school to becoming a top VFX creator and YouTuber. He discusses how patience, consistency, and clear vision helped him overcome challenges and build a global audience.Episode 67 Timestamps:00:00 Introduction03:45 Raghav's Origin Story07:16 Raghav’s VFX Journey Started With THIS Iconic Character11:22 How YouTube Made Raghav's Work Actually Better14:15 Raghav's Blueprint For Turning Amateur VFX Into a Pro Career16:47 This is The ONLY Thing That Made Raghav Successful18:38 The Video That Changed Raghav’s Career Forever22:32 Inside the Mind of a Successful VFX YouTuber (Make Bad Decisions)28:58 Breaking Into the VFX Industry—What You Must Know33:30 Why Now Is the Best Time to Be a Creator37:46 The Secret Mindset Trick Every Artist Needs to Succeed42:32 Raghav's Secret to Making Videos People Can’t Stop Watching46:46 Why You Must NEVER Skip Pre-Visualization56:43 How AI Is Changing the Future of Creativity01:04:00 Most Artists Fail Because They Ignore This One Thing01:10:16 Raghav’s Upcoming ProjectsIf this podcast is helping you, please take 2 minutes to rate our podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, It will help the Podcast reach and help more people! Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/12jUe4lIJgxE4yst7rrfmW?si=ab98994cf57541cfApple Podcasts (Scroll down to review)- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-decisions-podcast/id1677462934Find out more about Shutter Authority:https://www.youtube.com/@ShutterAuthorityhttps://www.instagram.com/shutterauthorityhttps://x.com/ShutterAuthJoin our discord server where we connect and share assets:https://discord.gg/zwycgqezfD Bad Decisions Audio Podcast 🎙️:Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasthttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/badxstudio

Mar 4, 2025 • 1h 28min
#66 This ONE Skill Will Make You Unstoppable with Roberto Nickson
Roberto P. Nickson, aka @rpn , is a digital creator and entrepreneur. As the founder of Eluna AI and Metav3rse, Roberto has built a massive following by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology. From collaborating with Meta, Instagram, and Adobe, to shaping the future of content creation through cutting-edge tools, Roberto shares his insights on where tech is headed and how creators can stay ahead.In this episode, Roberto breaks down the wild evolution of AI, the power of personal branding, and what it really takes to grow as a creator in today’s digital world. He talks about overcoming self-doubt, the rise of AI companions, and how tech is changing the way we work and create. Whether you're deep into AI or just curious about where it’s all headed, this convo is packed with insights on the future of creativity and innovation.Episode 66 Timestamps:00:00:00 Introduction00:01:50 How Tech & Creativity Are Merging Faster Than Ever00:05:40 Roberto Reveals How He Got Into Faceless Content00:11:19 Why Personal Branding Is No Longer Optional (It's A MUST)00:15:26 Roberto Explains How to Win in the Creator Economy 00:20:45 Feeling Insecure as a Creator? Watch This00:26:46 The Mindset That Separates Successful Entrepreneurs00:33:01 If You Are Just Starting Out— Watch This00:36:06 How AI Is Disrupting Content Creation (How To Survive)00:42:15 Roberto Got Up Close With an AI Robot—Here’s What Happened00:47:12 How AI Robots Will Completely Reshape Our World00:51:08 What Will Be The Future Of Human and AI Relationships?00:56:43 Why Society Is Clueless About Tech’s Real Impact01:00:19 Which AI Tools Are Changing Everything?01:07:31 The Truth About Work-Life Balance as a Creator01:14:30 A Short Intermission To Talk About Studios01:16:36 Will AI Take Your Job? Here’s What You Need to Know01:22:02 How To Take Control Of Your Future (Set Yourself For Success)If this podcast is helping you, please take 2 minutes to rate our podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, It will help the Podcast reach and help more people! Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/12jUe4lIJgxE4yst7rrfmW?si=ab98994cf57541cfApple Podcasts (Scroll down to review)- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-decisions-podcast/id1677462934Find out more about Roberto P. Nickson:https://www.youtube.com/@rpnhttps://www.instagram.com/rpn/https://x.com/rpnicksonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/robertonickson/Join our discord server where we connect and share assets:https://discord.gg/zwycgqezfD Bad Decisions Audio Podcast 🎙️:Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasthttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/badxstudioIf you wanna see us to do cool things follow us here too:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badxstudio/Twitter: https://twitter.com/badxstudioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@badxstudio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badxstudioOur personal handles: (if you wanna stalk us)https://www.instagram.com/farhad_baddecisions/https://www.instagram.com/faraz_baddecisions/https://www.instagram.com/farhad_sh/https://www.instagram.com/farazshababs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhadshababi/https://www.linkedin.com/in/farazshababi/#CEO #entrepreneurship #AI #3dartist #podcast #badxstudio #BadDecisionsStudio #BadDecisionsPodcast

12 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 48min
#65 How to Position Yourself for Massive SUCCESS in 2025 with Maha Abouelenein
Maha Abouelenin has built the personal brands of giants—working with Gary Vee, Google, Netflix, and the biggest names in business. As one of the most influential voices in global PR, she knows exactly how to turn stories into impact and opportunities into success.In this episode, Maha reveals the secrets behind powerful personal branding, the mindset shifts needed to break through self-doubt, and the art of networking at the highest levels. She breaks down why taking action is everything, how to build long-term relationships that open doors, and why controlling your own narrative is the ultimate power move. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative, or just looking to level up, this conversation is packed with game-changing insights you won’t want to miss.📖 7 Rules of Self-Reliance: https://www.mahaabouelenein.com/bookEpisode 65 Timestamps:00:00:00 Introduction00:03:03 How Maha Went from Small Town to PR Powerhouse00:05:06 Why Starting at the Bottom Gives You an Edge00:06:55 The Secret To Moving Out of A Country in 24hrs00:08:48 Maha Explains How to Crush Your Ego and Own Your Success00:13:15 THIS is The Hack That Separates Winners00:15:26 Confidence Isn't Given—Here’s How You Build It00:19:07 Maha's Networking Strategy That Opens Every Door00:25:17 Maha Explains The #1 Thing That Destroys Your Growth00:29:08 Why the Most Successful People Never Stop Learning00:31:02 The #1 Belief Holding You Back (And How to Fix It)00:32:36 Maha Explains How To Build a Personal Brand That Wins00:36:43 The Storytelling Secret That Instantly Makes People Listen00:40:15 The Only Way To Really Own Your Journey (And How To Live)00:43:51 Maha Gives Us The Key to Success (It's Free)If this podcast is helping you, please take 2 minutes to rate our podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, It will help the Podcast reach and help more people! Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/12jUe4lIJgxE4yst7rrfmW?si=ab98994cf57541cfApple Podcasts (Scroll down to review)- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-decisions-podcast/id1677462934Find out more about Maha Abouelenein:https://www.mahaabouelenein.com/https://www.instagram.com/mahagaberhttps://x.com/mahagaberhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/maha-abouelenein/Join our discord server where we connect and share assets:https://discord.gg/zwycgqezfDBad Decisions Audio Podcast 🎙️:Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasthttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/badxstudioIf you wanna see us to do cool things follow us here too:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badxstudio/Twitter: https://twitter.com/badxstudioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@badxstudio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badxstudioOur personal handles: (if you wanna stalk us)https://www.instagram.com/farhad_baddecisions/https://www.instagram.com/faraz_baddecisions/https://www.instagram.com/farhad_sh/https://www.instagram.com/farazshababs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhadshababi/https://www.linkedin.com/in/farazshababi/

8 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 2h 10min
#64 Ex-Google Exec Reveals The Shocking Truth About AI with Mo Gawdat
Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer at Google X and AI expert, explores the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and its profound impact on society. He discusses how AI is not only changing industries but also reshaping human connection. Gawdat reveals the dangers of AI bias and manipulation, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking as technology advances. He highlights the necessity of understanding our future with AI, warning about who really controls this powerful tool and challenging us to redefine our humanity in a tech-driven world.

Feb 4, 2025 • 1h
#63 AI is changing ANIMATION Forever with Move AI CEO
Tino Millar is the Co-founder and CEO of Move AI, a trailblazing company that captures human motion from video using AI, making motion capture accessible to creators in gaming, film, and sports. In this discussion, Tino shares the future of AI-driven motion capture, its impact on industries like live entertainment, and how it overcomes traditional barriers. He also recounts the challenges of building a tech startup, innovative applications of their technology, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs venturing into AI.

Jan 28, 2025 • 1h 44min
#62 Building Epidemic Sound into a Billion-Dollar Company with Oscar Höglund
Oscar Höglund, Co-founder and CEO of Epidemic Sound, is leading one of the world’s largest music and sound effects libraries. The platform's music now soundtracks videos that amass a staggering 2.5 billion views daily on YouTube and TikTok alone. Oscar's innovative approach has not only empowered creators worldwide but also attracted substantial investments, such as a $450 million funding round in 2021, valuing the company at $1.4 billion.
In this episode, Oscar shares the journey of building Epidemic Sound, touching on the challenges of entrepreneurship, the role of curiosity and collaboration, and the power of diverse life experiences in shaping leadership. We explore the importance of music in content creation, and how AI is transforming the industry.
Episode 62 Timestamps:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:05:08 Oscar Explains How Problem-Solving Is Attached to Curiosity
00:08:43 How YOU Can Use Problem-Solving to Build Companies
00:10:15 How Military Service Shaped Oscar's Life
00:13:17 From Military Instructor to Ski Instructor (BIG TWIST)
00:14:51 How Oscar Finally Got into Business School & Found His Path
00:20:40 How Traveling Can Make Your Extremely Valuable
00:24:03 THIS Was Oscar's Bad Decision
00:28:16 Oscar Explains How Being Different Led to His Success
00:32:45 Understanding the Super-Power of Diversity in Your Team
00:35:13 Oscar Reveals the Secret for Trusting Your Gut (Never Fail Again)
00:40:20 The Origin of Epidemic Sound
00:44:07 How the Music Industry Actually Works (SECRETS)
00:50:05 This Is How Epidemic Sound Revolutionized the Music Industry
00:54:58 The Real Mission of Epidemic Sound (Core Values)
00:58:20 How Epidemic Sound Changed the Content Creation Game
01:03:36 How Working with Epidemic Changed EVERYTHING For Artists
01:05:32 How Epidemic Changed Artist Compensation Forever
01:11:48 Understanding the Internet's Sound
01:14:55 Integrating AI Into Epidemic's Ecosystem
01:17:24 Oscar Talks About the Future of AI In Music Creation
01:26:38 How to Build a Team & Create Company Culture
01:38:16 Steps to Build a Truly Successful Business
If this podcast is helping you, please take 2 minutes to rate our podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, It will help the Podcast reach and help more people!
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/12jUe4lIJgxE4yst7rrfmW?si=ab98994cf57541cf
Apple Podcasts (Scroll down to review)- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-decisions-podcast/id1677462934
Find out more about Epidemic Sound:
https://www.instagram.com/epidemicsound/
Join our discord server where we connect and share assets:
https://discord.gg/zwycgqezfD
Bad Decisions Audio Podcast 🎙️:
Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/badxstudio
If you wanna see us to do cool things follow us here too:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badxstudio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/badxstudio
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Our personal handles: (if you wanna stalk us)
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhadshababi/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/farazshababi/

Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 15min
#61 How is Gawx so CREATIVE ?
Gawx, artist and filmmaker, has rapidly gained prominence on YouTube through his distinctive blend of illustration and cinematography. His channel, Gawx Art, boasts over 2.3 million subscribers, captivated by his unique cartoons and cinematic style. Beyond digital platforms, Gawx has custom-designed items such as sneakers and skateboard decks, showcasing his versatility and creative reach.
In this episode, Gawx shares his journey of balancing school and content creation, building a unique style, and staying authentic. He opens up about the creative risks he’s taken, how he battles artistic blocks, and how cinema and travel fuel his inspiration.
Episode 61 Timestamps:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:11 The Origin Of Gawx's "So Today!"
00:06:04 How Being Authentic Can Actually Solidify Your Brand
00:08:50 How Gawx Balanced School & YouTube
00:14:45 THIS Was Gawx's Bad Decision
00:17:33 How Pressure Fueled Gawx’s YouTube Success
00:20:31 How Balancing Work & Rest Can Lead To Genius
00:21:47 Gawx Reveals How Films Inspire His YouTube Masterpieces
00:23:05 Creating For The Algorithm VS Authentic Storytelling
00:26:35 Gawx Does THIS To Turn Discouragement Into Inspiration
00:29:13 Gawx's Biggest Failure & Overcoming It
00:31:53 THIS Is Gawx's Workflow For Every Video
00:36:11 Gawx's Masterful Way To Integrate Sponsors (STEAL THIS)
00:40:48 Gawx's Secret To Overcome Creative Blocks
00:41:46 How Setting Deadlines Led To Gawx's Success
00:45:00 Why Traveling Transforms Gawx’s Artistic Vision (JAPAN)
00:47:58 Gawx Explains How To Find Your Artistic Style (BIG TIP)
00:55:23 Gawx's Advice To Aspiring Creators In 2025
00:58:17 What’s Next for Gawx’s Creative Journey
00:59:05 Gawx's Favorite Software & Equipment (AI Tools Included)
01:07:07 Gawx's Thoughts On AI & The Future Of Creativity
01:11:17 How Gawx Learned His Craft & Filmmaking Skills
If this podcast is helping you, please take 2 minutes to rate our podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, It will help the Podcast reach and help more people!
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/12jUe4lIJgxE4yst7rrfmW?si=ab98994cf57541cf
Apple Podcasts (Scroll down to review)- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-decisions-podcast/id1677462934
Find out more about Gawx:
https://www.youtube.com/@UCFDxyA1H3VEN0VQwfMe2VMQ
https://www.instagram.com/gawx_art/
Join our discord server where we connect and share assets:
https://discord.gg/zwycgqezfD
Bad Decisions Audio Podcast 🎙️:
Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/badxstudio
If you wanna see us to do cool things follow us here too:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badxstudio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/badxstudio
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@badxstudio
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badxstudio
Our personal handles: (if you wanna stalk us)
https://www.instagram.com/farhad_baddecisions/
https://www.instagram.com/faraz_baddecisions/
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhadshababi/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/farazshababi/

Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 26min
#60 How TECH is Transforming Live Shows with Joris Corthout
Joris Corthout, CEO of Prismax, has transformed the landscape of live events with immersive technology. He shares insights on his role as the exclusive operator for Tomorrowland, discussing the integration of real-time visuals through Unreal Engine and the innovative X-Live software. The conversation delves into the evolution of music festivals, the rise of virtual experiences during the pandemic, and the significant impact of AI on live shows. Joris emphasizes the importance of visuals and the future of immersive entertainment, marking a revolution in audience engagement.

9 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 1h 16min
#59 The Importance of Visuals at EDM Events with Sean Bowes
Sean Bowes is a concert visual designer specializing in creating impactful animation and real-time content that elevates live music experiences. He has worked as a house VJ at major festivals such as EDC Vegas, Orlando, Mexico, and China, Rolling Loud Thailand, and various Insomniac events like Escape and Beyond Wonderland. Sean has also created animated visuals for top-tier artists, including Shakira, Excision, Rüfüs Du Sol, Korn, Coheed & Cambria, Tiësto, and Kygo.
In this episode, Sean talks about how he broke into the industry and mastered the art and science of live visuals. He reveals how he prepares for massive EDM festivals and balances automation with real-time creativity. Sean also opens up about the challenges of freelancing and setting goals.
Episode 59 Timestamps:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:08 Sean's VJing Journey
00:05:59 How Sean Kickstarted His VJing Career
00:10:05 If you don't have Clients, Listen to this!
00:17:18 Moving to LA: Sean Chasing his Dreams
00:22:00 If You Want to FREELANCE Watch This!
00:30:30 How Sean Set Goals & Overcame BIG Career Challenges
00:38:02 The Tricks Sean Uses to Make Concert Visuals Unforgettable
00:44:34 What Really Sets Big Music Festivals Apart from Small Ones
00:47:34 Automation in VJing & The Future of Live Performance
00:55:05 How Visuals Are Revolutionizing the Future of Live Performances
00:57:35 Sean’s Secrets to Flawless Teamwork During Live Performances
01:01:15 Sean's Crazy Story (Happens In EVERY SHOW)
01:05:05 How to Start a VJing Career in 2025
If this podcast is helping you, please take 2 minutes to rate our podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, It will help the Podcast reach and help more people!
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/12jUe4lIJgxE4yst7rrfmW?si=ab98994cf57541cf
Apple Podcasts (Scroll down to review)- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-decisions-podcast/id1677462934
Find out more about Sean:
https://www.seanbowes.com/
http://instagram.com/seanbowes
http://youtube.com/seanbowes
https://x.com/SeanBuzi
Join our discord server where we connect and share assets:
https://discord.gg/zwycgqezfD
Bad Decisions Audio Podcast 🎙️:
Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/badxstudio
If you wanna see us to do cool things follow us here too:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badxstudio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/badxstudio
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@badxstudio
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badxstudio
Our personal handles: (if you wanna stalk us)
https://www.instagram.com/farhad_baddecisions/
https://www.instagram.com/faraz_baddecisions/
https://www.instagram.com/farhad_sh/
https://www.instagram.com/farazshababs/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhadshababi/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/farazshababi/
#filmmaking #film #behindthescene #artist #unrealengine #cinema4d #houdini #blender3d #blender #3dartist #podcast #badxstudio #BadDecisionsStudio #BadDecisionsPodcast
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