Joby Harte’s journey as an entertainment professional is defined by creativity, leadership, and a passion for innovation. With a rich background in television hosting, production, and talent management, Joby Harte has transformed the global media landscape through his visionary approach to content creation and artist development.
In this interview, Joby Harte shares pivotal moments from his career, including his role in co-developing Pop Idol, his leadership at The Partnership LA and Attentive Entertainment, and his approach to discovering and nurturing rising stars. His story offers valuable insights for aspiring entertainers, creators, and those looking to shape the future of the entertainment industry.
Interviewer – Tell us a little about yourself
Joby Harte – I grew up in a family that always encouraged creativity and a love for the arts. From a young age, I was drawn to media and entertainment, and I went on to study film production and communications in college. My journey began in the television industry, where I worked as a producer and eventually became a host. Over the years, I’ve collaborated with incredibly talented people in television, music, and film. I’ve been fortunate to contribute to some landmark projects like Pop Idol. Through ventures like The Partnership LA and Attentive Entertainment, I’ve worked with emerging stars and created content that pushes boundaries.
Interviewer – Please tell us a little about your journey in the entertainment industry.
Joby Harte – My journey has been a blend of creativity, strategy, and learning. I started in television, and after working in different capacities, I co-developed Pop Idol, which was a huge turning point for me. It taught me the power of storytelling, talent discovery, and connecting with audiences in ways that resonate. From there, I shifted to talent management and content creation, founding The Partnership LA and Attentive Entertainment. My focus has always been on identifying raw, untapped talent and helping them carve out their niche in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Interviewer – Kindly brief us about your ventures, their specialization, and the services you offer within the entertainment industry.
Joby Harte – The Partnership LA is focused on managing talent in the film and music industries, and we pride ourselves on building long-term relationships with artists, not just as clients but as partners. Our work goes beyond traditional management—helping artists with brand development, creative direction, and business strategy. Attentive Entertainment, on the other hand, is a production company that creates compelling content across different platforms. We specialize in groundbreaking storytelling, from TV shows to digital media. Our goal is to create content that resonates with diverse audiences while pushing the envelope in terms of creativity and innovation.
Interviewer – What is your biggest unique selling point (USP) in the entertainment world?
Joby Harte – I would say my biggest USP is my ability to blend creativity with a deep understanding of the business side of entertainment. I’m not only a producer or manager I’m a storyteller at heart, which allows me to build brands and careers in ways that are authentic and sustainable. I’ve always believed in the power of collaboration and working with talented people to create something larger than the sum of its parts.
Interviewer – What inspired you to lead in this dynamic industry of entertainment?
Joby Harte – I’ve always had a passion for entertainment, but it was seeing the impact that great content can have on people’s lives that inspired me to step into a leadership role. I want to shape the industry, not just follow it. Watching young talent break through and change the cultural conversation is a driving force behind what I do. I want to be a part of that, guiding creatives and bringing their visions to life on a global stage.
Interviewer – What was your mission and vision when you first started in the industry?
Joby Harte – My mission from the beginning has been to push the boundaries of entertainment by fostering authentic talent and creating innovative, genre-defying content. My vision has always been to create a platform where emerging stars can thrive, develop their skills, and connect with audiences on a deep, personal level. As the industry evolves, I want to remain at the forefront of that change, building opportunities for both talent and creators.
Interviewer – What is your leadership mantra that has guided your career in entertainment?
Joby Harte – My leadership mantra is simple: “Empower and listen.” I believe in giving my team the freedom to innovate and express their ideas while also maintaining open lines of communication. In a creative field like entertainment, it’s vital to provide the support and guidance necessary for people to excel while also letting them lead with their own vision. It’s a balance of trust, respect, and empowerment.
Interviewer – What are your or your organization’s goals moving forward in the entertainment industry?
Joby Harte – Looking ahead, my goal is to continue discovering and nurturing new talent while expanding our production capabilities. At The Partnership LA and Attentive Entertainment, we’re focused on building brands that are both creatively and commercially successful. We’re exploring new mediums, whether that’s virtual reality, interactive TV, or digital streaming, and how we can leverage those to engage with younger, more diverse audiences. Our mission is to remain on the cutting edge of what’s next in entertainment.
Interviewer – What inspired you to shift focus to television production and talent management?
Joby Harte – Initially, I was drawn to the creative process of television production, but I soon realized that talent management and development were where I could have the most significant impact. Working closely with rising stars, I saw an opportunity to not only shape their careers but also influence the direction of the industry. The ability to be part of someone’s journey, whether it’s creating a show or developing a talent’s public persona, is deeply rewarding to me.
Interviewer – What have been some of your failures in the entertainment industry, and what lessons have you learned from them?
Joby Harte – Like anyone in this business, I’ve had my share of failures. Not every project turns into a success, and not every collaboration works out. But what I’ve learned is that failure is part of the process—it’s not the end, but a stepping stone toward something better. I’ve learned to embrace setbacks, understand the lessons they bring, and always strive for improvement. It’s about bouncing back stronger and using each experience to refine my approach.
Interviewer – Key things to consider before embarking on a career in entertainment or media production.
Joby Harte – The entertainment industry is incredibly competitive, so you need passion, resilience, and a strong work ethic. You also need to be adaptable. Trends change fast, and the landscape is constantly evolving. But beyond that, you need a solid network. Relationships in entertainment are key to getting your foot in the door and progressing in the industry. Having a clear vision of what you want to achieve is just as important as being flexible enough to pivot when necessary.
Interviewer – What are some of the biggest mistakes you’ve made in your career in entertainment?
Joby Harte – One mistake I made early on was trying to take on too much at once. I learned that it’s essential to focus on one thing at a time and ensure that you’re giving it your full attention. It’s easy to get distracted by the next big idea, but executing well on the current project is what drives long-term success. I also learned the importance of trusting my team and delegating more effectively.
Interviewer – If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out in the entertainment industry, what would it be?
Joby Harte – My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. The entertainment industry is constantly changing, and the best way to succeed is by staying ahead of the curve. Network relentlessly, but also focus on honing your craft. And, of course, don’t be afraid to take risks—sometimes the best opportunities come from stepping out of your comfort zone.
Interviewer – Your success tips for young and aspiring talent managers, producers, or creators in the entertainment industry.
Joby Harte – The most important thing is to build trust with the talent you manage and the collaborators you work with. Communication is key. Always have a clear vision for both the immediate and long-term goals, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. The industry is about innovation, and those who succeed are the ones who can think differently and are willing to push boundaries. Lastly, never underestimate the power of persistence. Stay focused, and keep working on your craft.