When I first started turning pens, I didn't have a proper appreciation for the widely varying densities of wood blanks. One of my first half dozen pens was a spalted sweet gum that I turned in the same manner as oak & maple.
Apparently I was just lucky, because it turned & finished just fine with no problems whatsoever. Then I totally blew up my next two spalted blanks and decided that I needed to reconsider my technique. After turning a fairly wide variety of wood types and learning more about how different woods turn, sand & finish, I tackled some more spalted blanks & now can get pretty consistent results. I still shy away from using regular turning tools on really punky wood, but I give some 80 grit sandpaper a try.
Stabilizing is a great option for soft woods, but I don't have the equipment for it & I generally prefer a more natural wood look & feel anyway. Also, I just like the challenge that soft woods present - when I mount one of those blanks on the lathe, I think to myself, "now who's gonna win this battle - me or the wood?".
Nothing beats experience - just keep turning & refining your techniques. Also be sure to post some photos of your work.
Have fun
Edgar