Marius Marica: From Atlantic Film to BUG52 – A Journey of Leadership and Innovation in Media

Marius Marica, founder of BUG52 and entrepreneur with over 20 years in film and media, shares insights on leadership, courage, and business reinvention.

Marius Marica, entrepreneur and founder of BUG52, a podcasting studio with multiple locations in Bucharest and Iași, with over two decades of experience in the film and media production industry, and a business journey that began back in 2000, when he founded the company Atlantic Film Production.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence that would spark curiosity in those who don’t know you yet?

Marica Marius: I am the entrepreneur who has learned that success is not a destination, but a series of new beginnings – and that is precisely why, after more than two decades spent in the film industry, I decided to set out once again, this time in podcasting.

C&B: If we were to look at a narrative thread of your career or business, what were the key moments that defined you?

Marica Marius: The first moment was in 2000, when I founded Atlantic Film, the company through which I entered the world of cinema and production. Then, the moment when I managed to grow the business to the point of an exit in 2022 was a defining stage – because it proved to me that I can build something from scratch and bring it to maturity. The third key moment is the launch of BUG52, a project where I transferred all my previous experience, but into a new field – podcasting and multimedia content – an area that is extremely current and with huge potential.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment so far in your journey, and how did you overcome it?

Marica Marius: The most difficult moment was the transition period, when I had to detach myself emotionally from Atlantic Film, after more than two decades of work there. I overcame that stage by focusing on what I could build moving forward – and BUG52 became exactly that new beginning that restored my energy and passion.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?

Marica Marius: If the question refers to my current ambition, then it is to create a space where people can tell their stories freely, authentically, and with impact. Podcasting gives me exactly that framework: the possibility to give voice to ideas, to connect communities, and to make messages circulate beyond barriers. For me, podcasting is not just a media format, but a tool through which everyone can leave a real mark on the world.

C&B: How did you look at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you’ve transformed until now?

Marica Marius: At the beginning, I was a young man full of enthusiasm, but with very little practical experience. Today, after 25 years, I have the same energy, but I combine it with patience, strategy, and an understanding of the market. I believe I have transformed from an executor into a visionary, and from a solo entrepreneur into a team leader.

C&B: If we were to meet your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?

Marica Marius: I think they would say that I am perseverant, demanding, but fair. That I have high standards, but that I also give them the freedom to express their creativity. Most likely they would mention that I am solution-oriented and that I always find a way to turn ideas into reality.

C&B: What is the most important decision you have made that changed your trajectory?

Marica Marius: The decision to sell Atlantic Film and to start a completely new business in an emerging industry. It was a leap of faith – one that brought me back to the field where I feel most comfortable: innovation.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style or the way you make decisions? Was it a natural or a learned process?

Marica Marius: It was a mix. Natural, because I always had the instinct to lead and build teams, but also learned, because over time I understood the importance of listening to people, making decisions based on data, and prioritizing long-term partnerships.

C&B: What do you think differentiates your business or your professional approach from the rest of the industry?

Marica Marius: BUG52 is not just a podcast studio. It’s a space where people come to feel inspired and supported, where they receive not only top equipment, but also our know-how. The difference is that we don’t just rent a space, we offer a complete experience: from audio-video production to consultancy and post-production, in a friendly and professional environment.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and which moments bring you the greatest satisfaction?

Marica Marius: My workday begins with organization and setting priorities for the team. Then come client meetings, sessions, and often time spent directly in the studio. The most rewarding moments are when I see clients excited about the results of our work. Because that confirms we are on the right path.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do, and how do you apply them day by day?

Marica Marius: The core value is quality – we do everything at the highest possible standard. Then authenticity – because only stories told sincerely resonate with the audience. And, very importantly, perseverance – no matter the obstacles, I don’t give up until we find the solution.

C&B: How did you come up with the idea to start this business and give it this name?

Marica Marius: The idea came naturally after I concluded my experience with Atlantic Film and felt it was time to build a modern business, in line with the new media trends. The name BUG52 synchronized perfectly with the address of our first studio (Berthelot Underground 52), and that made the brand organically tied to the place where we started. At the same time, for me, “BUG” symbolizes the creativity that can emerge even from imperfections, and “52” is also about consistency (the 52 weeks in a year in which you can create and tell stories). Practically, the name came naturally and managed to bring together both our roots and our long-term vision.

C&B: If you were to send a message to people who follow your example, what would it be?

Marica Marius: Don’t be afraid to start from zero. Even after building a consolidated business and going through an exit, you can reinvent your path and create something new, perhaps even more relevant. Success doesn’t only mean stability, but also the courage to reinvent yourself when you feel the time has come.

From Atlantic Film to BUG52, Marius Marica proves that success is never an endpoint but the beginning of a new chapter. With vision, perseverance, and authenticity, he continues to transform every experience into innovation and inspiration.