Studio Sherpas

Liz Wilcox shares why every video professional needs an email list (even if they're just starting out) and provides practical, easy-to-implement strategies for using email marketing to create more predictable income without feeling salesy or spending hours crafting the perfect message. Key Takeaways Your email list is your "potential client list" - people don't buy when you sell, they buy when they're ready, and email keeps you top of mind until that moment Start with a simple lead magnet (like "5 Red Flags When Hiring a Videographer") that solves a specific problem for your ideal clients Be your authentic self in emails - even corporate clients appreciate working with real humans who show personality rather than stuffy, formal messaging Ask questions and get feedback from your email subscribers to help craft services and packages they actually want instead of guessing what might sell About Liz Wilcox The Fresh Princess of Email Marketing, Liz Wilcox is an Email Strategist and Keynote Speaker showing small businesses how to build online relationships + make real money with emails. She's best known for selling a blog, turning a $9 offer into multiple six-figures (without ads), and helping you untangle the email “knot” with her simple framework, the Email Staircase. She loves the 90s, headbands, and the beach. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:22] Meet Liz Wilcox [06:11] Email Marketing Strategy [15:40] Softwares for Email Marketing [18:57] Effective Spots for Lead Magnets [33:33] Owning Your Personality [39:40] Know What Your Clients Want [47:10] Connect with Liz [51:47] Outro Quotes "People do not buy when you sell something. They buy when they're ready... So as far as starting your email list, it can be as simple as telling those clients, 'Hey, I'm gonna put you on this email list, I'm gonna email you.'" - Liz Wilcox "We're all H to H, human to human... If you think you can't be yourself because your client is too uppity or whatever, I say it with love, maybe reconsider. You can be yourself." - Liz Wilcox "Marketing is not saying 100 different things, it's saying one thing 100 different times. It's not braggy to say, 'Oh my gosh, my last client loved his video, here's a snippet.' That's not bragging, that's letting people know so that they can get something they love too." - Liz Wilcox "What would this look like if it was easy? And sometimes I'm like, well, Liz, it's just not easy. So I got a backup question. What would this look like if it was fun?" - Liz Wilcox Guest Links Find Liz Wilcox online Follow Liz Wilcox on Instagram | Facebook Get the Mega Email Swipe File Links Learn more about the Video Blueprint Starter Kit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Pablo Gonzalez shares his journey from construction sales to Silicon Valley tech evangelist and reveals how video professionals can create more predictable income by solving "Monday morning problems," stacking value beyond just delivering footage, and packaging their services as experiences rather than products. Key Takeaways Create offers that solve immediate business problems first (like testimonial videos) before trying to sell big vision projects - this builds trust that lets you eventually sell those larger projects Package your video services as experiences rather than products - such as turning client testimonial videos into a VIP day that makes both your client and their customers feel special Look for ways to "stack value" by providing additional deliverables that make it easier for clients to use and share their videos (like providing captions, email copy, and suggested posting strategies) Find a specific niche to serve repeatedly - this creates insights that lead to better offers, more referrals, and a more predictable business About Pablo Gonzalez From green building to community building to rental property investing, Pablo Gonzalez has a track record of spotting disruptive industry trends, building movements around them, and creating massive value for those that follow for 15+ years. As the Chief Evangelist of Vendoroo, he has become completely focused on 1 thing: The impending disruption coming for single-family home property management. His work has seen him featured on the iconic books, The Ultimate Sale Machine and Belonging To The Brand, the keynote stage of NARPM Broker/Owner, and over 700 podcasts.  He is currently the host of the  Property Management Frame Breakers Podcast and Not Your Average Investor Show.   He lives in Jacksonville, FL where he owns a SFH portfolio, surfs as often as he can, and loves to cook for his wife, Martha. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:10] Meet Pablo Gonzalez [05:34] Vendaroo [09:43] Community Creation for Businesses [13:47] Predictability Through Niching Down [20:55] Build Something Boring. [27:56] Stacking Value [32:15] Understanding Outcome [45:44] Connect With Pablo [48:09] Outro Quotes "Your coach told me, you've got to solve a Monday morning problem to get in the door. If you can solve a Monday morning problem, they'll let you solve the year-end problem. But you gotta prove value." - Pablo Gonzalez "Everybody wants testimonial videos with their clients. Everybody wants ways to show how their stuff works really well for people. And they also want better relationships with those people... Sell it as an experience, not a product." - Pablo Gonzalez "Until I really unlocked predictability in my business by figuring out an offer that I can sell, that reduced pressure increased enough bandwidth to make me a better husband. Our marriage has gotten better because of financial security." - Pablo Gonzalez "Just do more of what is working. Six words. And I'm like, yeah, okay, so if this is working, even if I'm not the most passionate and excited about it, you need to stay in this work because it allows you opportunity to do the things that you are passionate about." - Ryan Koral Guest Links Find Pablo Gonzalez online Follow Pablo Gonzalez on Instagram | Facebook  Connect with Pablo Gonzalez on LinkedIn Vendoroo Website: https://vendoroo.ai email brian@vendoroo.ai to get the "Build Your Podcast from Scratch" handout Check out the "Property Management Frame Breakers" podcast Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Mark Lebrun shares how he built a thriving YouTube channel that replaced his corporate income and now discusses strategies for video production businesses to leverage YouTube, create targeted offers, and use AI to work more efficiently while maintaining authentic connections with clients. Key Takeaways Create YouTube content that addresses specific pain points your ideal clients face, then naturally incorporate offers that solve those problems Instead of sending everyone to your homepage, build targeted landing pages for different niches and track which ones convert best • Experiment with lower-priced offers (like a $19 download or $1,000 virtual coaching session) to serve people who aren't ready for your premium services Use AI strategically for SEO optimization, content planning, and business strategy while maintaining your human touch for client relationships About Mark Lebrun Mark Lebrun is a Digital Influencer and Strategist, and the founder of Digital Influencer Co. — a creative powerhouse helping faith-driven leaders and purpose-filled entrepreneurs grow their platforms and monetize their message. He has worked alongside high-impact leaders like Isaac Frere and April Lewis, and has partnered with organizations such as Alpha USA, Faith Driven Entrepreneurs, and Freedom From Within to help them scale their digital presence. With a combined following of over 320,000 across platforms, Mark has built an engaged community by blending bold faith, sharp strategy, and authentic storytelling. Mark is also the visionary behind Hood Proverbs, a brand rooted in community transformation through the gospel, and the founder of YouTube Influence Academy, a program equipping creators to grow their channels, monetize their influence, and create with conviction. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:13] Meet Mark Lebrun [08:09] Why YouTube Is Gold [14:28] Marketing Through Ads [18:13] Having Multiple Landing Pages [26:57] Developing Systems to Avoid Burnout [31:47] Utilizing AI In Your Business [46:21] Connect with Mark [48:24] Outro Quotes "The creative economy is evaluated to be a $500 billion industry by 2027. And right now it's a $250 billion industry in 2025... You guys are the people who embody the creative economy. And let's just say, we put in an extra 1% more effort... you could get a piece of this pie." - Mark Lebrun "If you are drained as a YouTuber, as someone who's on social media, you might be doing it wrong. Because you need to have systems in place that prevent burnout... I don't want to see entrepreneurs burn out in this digital economy." - Mark Lebrun "When we put this kind of pressure on ourselves to continue to outdo, outperform... we should be on a slow ramp to improve and to be more efficient in those things... my heartbeat in doing this brand was that I want to help filmmakers be more fulfilled and less drained." - Ryan Koral Guest Links Find Mark Lebrun online Learn more about Mark Lebrun's Academy Learn more about Digital Influencers Co. Follow Mark Lebrun on Instagram | YouTube Follow Hood Proverbs on Instagram Links   Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this eye-opening conversation, Graham Cochrane reveals how he built a $2 million business working just 5 hours a week by identifying the 20% of activities that drive 80% of results, and shares his four-part framework for designing a sustainable, energizing business week. Key Takeaways Most activities in your business don't generate revenue – identify the 20% that do and focus there while eliminating, automating, or delegating the rest Perfectionism keeps you from serving clients effectively – they care more about getting results faster than your video being a 10/10 • Design your week with four key elements: recharge time, relationship time, rainmaker time (revenue-generating activities), and reflection time "Do more of what is working" – analyze what's actually driving results in your business and double down on those specific activities About Graham Cochrane Graham Cochrane is a highly acclaimed entrepreneur, USA Today bestselling author, and keynote speaker with a track record of building successful online businesses. He is also the host of The Graham Cochrane Show, a top .5% ranked podcast globally, where each week he helps people create more money, margin, and meaning in their lives. With over 15 years of online coaching and content experience, 700,000 YouTube subscribers across his channels, and having built multiple 7 figure businesses that require less than 5 hours of work per week to run, Graham has established himself as a leading figure in digital entrepreneurship and personal development and is dedicated to strategically aligning online business owners with their true potential, empowering them to feel fulfilled and invigorated by their work through tailored strategies and innovative solutions and ultimately create what he calls an Effortless Business™.  His insights have been regularly featured in national media outlets like Forbes, CNBC and Business Insider. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:36] Meet Graham Cochrane [07:43] Rebel [13:44] Narrowing Down Your List [22:11] Hobby Or A Business? [27:40] The Best At Serving Clients [40:23] 4 Things Every Week Needs [50:42] Connect with Graham [51:24] Outro Quotes "Effort-fueled businesses will eventually fade, but energy-fueled businesses flourish. And there's a big shift. You have to go from effort to energy to build a sustainable business." - Graham Cochrane "Most of what you're doing isn't generating much revenue in your business. Which means the other best news is that a small part of what you're doing each week is actually leading to the majority of your revenue." - Graham Cochrane "You don't have to be the best filmmaker to win in your video business. The best filmmaker isn't the one that wins. It's not the best craftsman that wins. This isn't an award show for who makes the best video. This is a business for who serves their clients the best." - Graham Cochrane "We don't learn from our experiences, we learn from reflecting on our experiences." - Graham Cochrane (quoting from John Dewey) Guest Links Find Graham Cochrane online Recording Revolution Follow Graham on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube The Graham Cochrane Show (podcast) Episode #131: How Being Your True & Authentic Self Will Set You Apart Episode #273: What Video Clients are ACTUALLY Looking For with Graham Cochrane Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Sam Hanson shares his journey from leaving a 10-year job to starting his own motion design business that's doubled every month, offering insights on finding your worth as a creative and the importance of genuinely helping clients rather than just focusing on billing hours. Key Takeaways Understand your value by asking clients what solving their problems is worth to them - don't just set an hourly rate based on what you think you deserve Being helpful, cheerful and consistent creates relationships that lead to more work - Sam's biggest clients keep giving him more projects because he makes their lives easier Having a community of supportive peers (like a mastermind group) provides the encouragement and accountability needed to take risks and grow your business About Sam Hanson Sam Hanson is a motion designer and founder of Unlidded Co., focused on helping brands repurpose existing content and create motion graphics that bridge the gap between static design and video. His work helps build a cohesive, consistent brand narrative across platforms, drawing on over a decade of experience he finds brand design with live action. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:24] Meet Sam Hanson [06:16] Mastermind Retreat Takeaways [10:50] Mastermind Group [22:31] Value Based Pricing [28:51] Helpful Softwares for Business [31:15] Discovering Your Value [44:49] Connect with Sam [47:28] Outro Quotes "Find out your worth and then believe in it. Like if you've gotten paid more than you think you're worth before and you actually delivered and then that person's happy, don't go back from that because you can do that at that same level again and again." - Sam Hanson "My takeaway is that people are way more encouraging than you are to yourself. And that was a huge, huge boost for me." - Sam Hanson "You don't need to figure out your worth. That's what that project's worth. That's what solving this problem, that's what it's gonna be worth for them." - Ryan Koral "The best advice I can give to myself is to keep going. Sometimes things are really hard and they don't need to be. And even if they feel like that, it seems like it just keeps getting better." - Sam Hanson Guest Links Find Sam Hanson online Book a call with Sam Hanson - he'd love to connect with fellow creatives and business owners! Find Sam Hanson on Facebook | Instagram Connect with Sam Hanson on LinkedIn Links  Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this candid conversation, former co-host Matt Davis shares his journey launching a legacy film business while reflecting on how sobriety and community support helped him overcome perfectionism and finally pursue his passion project after years of hesitation. Key Takeaways Don't wait for everything to be perfect before launching something new – get feedback from past clients and build as you go Being part of a supportive community that holds you accountable is crucial for pushing through self-doubt and taking action Authenticity in your work comes from being authentic in your own life – facing personal struggles directly can unlock your creative potential About Matt Davis Matt Davis is the founder and creative director of Life Stage Films and Harvest Filmworks, with nearly two decades of experience crafting compelling visual stories. Starting with weddings and expanding into corporate production, Matt has filmed over a thousand events worldwide. A former co-host of this podcast, he's now launching legacy films—documentary-style projects that capture family stories for future generations. Matt brings a unique perspective shaped by his personal journey of overcoming addiction (recently celebrating two years of sobriety) and his commitment to authentic storytelling. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:14] Meet Matt Davis [09:38] The Importance of Humility [18:53] Legacy Films [38:55] Battling Perfectionism [41:55] Just Do The Thing [49:30] Connect with Matt [51:24] Lightning Round Questions [56:20] Outro Quotes "I always thought that if I got to three or six months, oh, I can handle this alcohol thing... I feel like I take the limitless pill every day with my sobriety. I feel like my head is clear. My ideas are coming forth in a way that I didn't even think that could happen 10 years ago or five years ago." - Matt Davis "You're telling me that I've done over a thousand events and weddings for families and you're afraid to pick up the phone and call people and tell them what you're up to... getting feedback from past clients, they already trust me, already friends with me, it was a godsend." - Matt Davis "Don't overthink it. Just do it... get out of your head and just do the thing that you feel like you were designed to do, called to do, however you wanna phrase that. But that's what you owe the world." - Ryan Koral "I didn't feel like I was being my authentic self for years because of the struggle that I was having behind the scenes... I wasn't. I really wasn't being authentic. And who am I to go out there and try to make these authentic films for businesses?" - Matt Davis Guest Links Family Legacy Stories from Life Stage Films Follow Matt Davis on Instagram Follow Life Stage Films on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Follow Harvest Filmworks on Facebook | Instagram Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Ryan talks with Adam McChesney about his journey from medical device sales to building two seven-figure digital marketing businesses. Adam shares valuable insights about personal branding, the importance of creating authentic content, and specific digital marketing strategies for service-based businesses that want to grow. Key Takeaways Get clear on what YOU want in your business rather than building what others think you should Build personal brand authenticity by sharing your process and behind-the-scenes content instead of just finished results Focus your website content on specific location/industry combinations to boost your SEO performance instead of generic blog posts About Adam Chesney Adam McChesney is a serial entrepreneur based in St. Louis, MO. Originally a medical device sales rep, he transitioned into entrepreneurship full-time in the midst of the pandemic in July 2020.  Since going out on his own, Adam has leveraged his skillset of personal branding & digital marketing to grow multiple companies at this point.  He is the Founder of Builders of Authority, and Co-Owner at Auto Glass Repair of STL.  Formerly, Adam was the VP of Growth and Partner at Hite Digital, a digital marketing agency that Adam helped grow to a 2x INC 5000 award winner. Adam was named Hite Digital Franchise of the Year in both 2021 & 2022. After building a multiple 7-figure agency with personal branding, Adam decided to launch Builders of Authority, which offers group coaching & 1-1 consulting for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to take their personal branding to the next level.  After his exit from Hite Digital, Adam restarted a highly specialized digital marketing agency, helping contractors and home service companies with website design, SEO, Google PPC, and Facebook Ads. Builders of Authority LIVE are Adam's in person events where he brings in world-class speakers to teach and educate attendees on how to become THE authority in their industries.  He is the host of the Builders of Authority Podcast, and has been a guest on over 200 podcasts himself.  Adam is married to his wife Delaney, and they have 1 child, a boy named Murphy along with a dog, Georgie. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:45] Meet Adam McChesney [10:41] Getting Clear On Your Goals [14:25] Don't Miss Your Ideal Client [25:11] Sharing Behind The Scenes [27:43] Being Authentic [31:05] Tips For Your Website [40:02] Search Atlas [43:59] Connect with Adam [44:50] Outro Quotes "If you try to be everything to everyone with your personal brand and you try to be everything to everyone inside of your business, you're gonna be nothing to no one." - Adam McChesney "So many people struggle to go get more clients and they're like, I'm doing all this incredible work. And then I go look at their Facebook page... but nobody knows about it because you haven't really been posting about it." - Adam McChesney "What people really want to know is what is Ryan's process look like? Like all of the deliverables, anybody can create the video, make it look super shiny, but like who is Ryan and his company behind the scenes?" - Adam McChesney "So many creatives are so good at doing the thing for the other people, but they're not great at doing it for their own business. So it's like, I'm going to go build somebody else's house first before I go build my own. You got to build your house first and then go build everybody else's." - Adam McChesney Guest Links Find Adam McChesney online Follow Adam McChesney on Facebook | Instagram | TikTok Connect with Adam McChesney on LinkedIn Join the Builders of Authority Facebook group Check out Search Atlas (SEO tool) Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Mignon Francois, founder of The Cupcake Collection and self-proclaimed "Director of Joy," shares her incredible journey from a struggling mom who couldn't pay her electric bill to building a destination bakery that ships nationwide. She discusses the power of vision, the importance of joy even during trials, and why storytellers have such an important responsibility. Key Takeaways Nothing exists apart from words - your vision and what you speak about your business has the power to create your future When building a business, your vision takes your whole life to achieve, your mission is the vehicle to get there, and your values are the luggage you pack for the journey It's okay to feel scared in your business journey - "if it doesn't make you afraid, then it's not big enough" Look for joy even in difficult times - choose to become better, not bitter About Mignon Francois Mignon François is a #1 national best-selling author, entrepreneur and renowned baker who has inspired millions on her journey of going from drowning in debt to building a multi-million-dollar cupcake empire – The Cupcake Collection. She leveraged her $5 to feed her family and turned it into a legacy with over five million cupcakes sold.  Her grassroots story of success has garnered national attention from TODAY with Hoda and Jenna, Southern Living, Entrepreneur and Business Insider to name a few. She is the author of Made from Scratch: Finding Success Without a Recipe, where shares her story of finding success with no presets in place.  Mignon is a sought-after speaker and is committed to equipping and empowering people to change the trajectory of their lives. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:09] Meet Mignon François [12:11] The Cupcake Collection [18:02] Mignon's Story [28:32] When to Grow Your Team [32:18] The Power In Your Words [40:40] Remember Your Why [46:06] Connect with Mignon [47:28] Outro Quotes "I just believe that cake makes you feel seen. You know, have you ever had a cake that didn't feel like, you did this for me?" - Mignon Francois "Nothing exists apart from words. Our words have power to change. Our words have power to save. Our words have power to heal. Our words have power to create." - Mignon Francois "If it doesn't make you afraid, then it's not big enough." - Mignon Francois "As storytellers, we are wielding the most granular piece of earth. And we are being tasked with molding and shaping that which someone wants to communicate from the beginning." - Mignon Francois "Your vision is gonna take you your whole life to get there. The mission is the vehicle you're using to travel to that life destination. And your core values are the luggage that you're packing for the journey." - Mignon Francois Guest Links Find Mignon Francois online Follow Mignon Francois on Instagram Made From Scratch: Finding Success Without a Recipe, by Mignon Francois Links Learn more about the Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Lindsay Tjepkema, founder of Human Brands Win, shares her expertise on how video professionals can differentiate themselves through authentic storytelling and relationship building. She provides practical strategies for sharing your unique value without feeling "braggy" and explains why human connection remains your biggest competitive advantage in an AI world. Key Takeaways Your story isn't about bragging - it's about connecting with clients who share your values and helping them understand how you can solve their problems If you're uncomfortable telling your own story, let your clients tell it through conversations about their experience working with you LinkedIn and in-person events remain powerful channels for relationship building when you focus on adding value rather than selling Being intentional about your brand means answering key questions: Who do you serve? Why do you do this work? How are you helping people? About Lindsay Tjepkema Lindsay spent two decades in global B2B marketing leadership and was most recently the founder and CEO of venture-backed SaaS startup, Casted. Today, she is the Founder and CEO of her 3rd business, Human Brands Win, where she is a growth advisor and brand strategist helping leaders embrace their uniqueness to drive success. She's (nearly) vegan, loves DMB, and lives near Boston with her husband and their three boys. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the Show! [06:17] Meet Lindsay Tjepkema [07:15] Why Brand Is Important [10:32] How to Tell YOUR Story [22:15] Using Your Client's Stories [29:05] Networking Effectively [38:05] Finding Your Story [49:36] Connect with Lindsay [50:25] Outro  Quotes "No matter what technology comes into play, no matter what's happening in the world or in the various industries we work in or the customers we serve, the one thing that always perseveres as the key differentiator is the relationships you are able to build and strengthen with the people you want to know like and trust you long term." - Lindsay Tjepkema "If you don't provide that and your story, because we're telling stories all the time, if your story on your website or in your content or lack thereof is, 'Will make this for you, this is the cost,' then that's your story. And you're going to be a commodity to people that I think would otherwise really value a whole lot more." - Lindsay Tjepkema "AI can't replace your personality. You have to tell people what makes you different. And that can look like a lot of different things. But if you want people to know why they should work with you instead of asking AI to auto-generate a video, you have to tell them. And when you tell them, how you tell them, what you tell them is story." - Lindsay Tjepkema Guest Links Get the B.R.A.V.E Scorecard Find Lindsay Tjepkema online Find Human Brands Win online Listen to the "Actually, I Can" podcast Connect with Lindsay Tjepkema on LinkedIn  Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Mark Bone and Michael Del Monte, Founders of Art of Documentary, share their journey from running track to becoming successful filmmakers and educators. They dive deep into how filmmakers can create more value, communicate better with clients, and balance passion projects with strategic business decisions in today's changing industry. Key Takeaways Focus on what a video will DO for a client, not just how it will LOOK - clients care about results and problems solved, not your gear Create multiple assets from a single project to meet different client needs - the two-minute anthem video AND the 30-second hard-selling cutdown The right kind of "free work" early in your career can be strategic marketing that leads to huge opportunities later Finding mentors and community is essential for growth and sustainability in this industry About Michael Del Monte Michael Del Monte is a Canadian documentary filmmaker known for telling stories of overlooked individuals. With degrees in Philosophy and Theology, he's directed four award-winning feature documentaries, with work featured on Netflix, Amazon Prime, ESPN, CBC, and more. About Mark Bone Mark Bone is an award-winning Toronto-based director who discovered documentary filmmaking while working in Egypt during the Darfur war. He's directed acclaimed films like 58 HOURS and ASD Band: The Movie, and his work has screened at HotDocs and been featured by CNN Films and Vimeo. He's also directed global campaigns for brands like Nike, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. In This Episode [00:00:00] Welcome to the show! [00:04:39] Meet Michael Del Monte and Mark Bone [00:08:35] Documentary Foundations Course [00:17:23] Big Clients Vs Small Retainers [00:21:52] Define Your Goals [00:33:50] Showing Value by Showing Up [00:40:55] Bringing Multiple Assets [00:48:33] "Free Work” [00:55:40] Connect with Art Of Documentary [01:00:43] Outro Quotes "A beautiful cinematic emotional video does nothing for us if we don't know what to do with it." - Client quote shared by Michael Del Monte "I compare AI to fast food... there'll be a use case for it clearly in that world, but we still need fine dining chefs. We still need chefs who can make gourmet meals, who have hundred-year-old recipes and it tastes very differently." - Michael Del Monte "AI can't replace your personality. There's three things you can do as an entrepreneur. You can be good, you can be reliable, and you can be fun. And I just don't think AI is fun." - Mark Bone "Every year, or I would say even every six months, you need to be making time for a project that can help you take multiple leaps forward in your career." - Michael Del Monte Guest Links Find The Art of Documentary online Follow The Art of Documentary on Instagram Follow Michael Del Monte on Instagram Follow Mark Andrew Bone on Instagram | YouTube Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Johnny Mendez shares the raw story of how his successful video production company hit rock bottom financially in December 2017, and the seven-year journey of rebuilding with better systems, mindset, and business foundations. He reveals how this painful experience transformed not just his company but his entire approach to life, work, and personal growth. Key Takeaways The shift from being "filmmakers who had a business" to "business owners who provide filmmaking services" is crucial for long-term sustainability Managing your finances properly isn't optional - even successful companies with great clients can collapse without proper cash flow management Personal growth and development are just as important as business skills - "you don't achieve your goals, you grow into them" Joining communities of like-minded professionals provides both support during difficult times and accelerates your learning and growth About Johnny Mendez Johnny is the co-owner of Hen House Media, an award-winning video production company serving clients for the last 22 years. Before launching his business, Johnny worked in film production and broadcast television. He's had the honor to film nationally and internationally working alongside truly remarkable clients.  He has experienced his share of lows in both his personal life and business endeavors. These challenges led him to embrace personal growth and continued learning, which has profoundly impacted his life, helping him navigate through tough times, especially as the industry changes. Now, Johnny is rewriting his story and code, and wants to share that story in hopes of helping others.  Above all, Johnny enjoys long walks on the beach with his family, and is planning a tell-all book on his love of sandwiches.  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the Show! [04:54] Meet Johnny Mendez [05:44] Hen House Media[14:15] Financial Wake-Up Call [26:21] Managing Your Assets [29:06] Financial Tips [36:28] Investing In Yourself [43:52] The Great Reframe Podcast [45:49] Connect with Johnny [48:07] Outro Quotes "We used to be filmmakers who had a business, and now I think we're business owners who provide filmmaking services." - Johnny Mendez "There's a great quote. There's a guy Jim Rome who has a quote that says you don't achieve your goals, you grow into them. And that like is something that I want to just like half printed on my wall because it's so true." - Johnny Mendez "The money that comes in is not the money that you have. You have to put it through all of its filters to see what's at the bottom that you actually are. And then you can control that number by controlling everything that happens in the middle." - Johnny Mendez "For me, what's really important is family, right? My family is like the center of my universe and everything I'm doing now is in service of them. I want to spend more time with them. I want to be present." - Johnny Mendez Guest Links Find Johnny Mendez online Check out The Great Reframe on YouTube | Instagram Check out The Great Reframe podcast Follow Henhouse Media on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Carter Hogan shares his journey from filmmaker to software founder and reveals why most video professionals don't actually have a lead generation problem - they have a lead nurturing problem. He breaks down practical ways to automate the "low-value activities" in your business so you can focus on the creative work that matters most. Key Takeaways Your leads need 7-8 touchpoints before they'll trust you enough to hire you - if you're not consistently staying in touch, you're leaving money on the table A simple monthly newsletter highlighting recent projects and how they solved client problems is the easiest way to nurture leads effectively Automating payment processes and follow-ups not only saves time but prevents thousands in unpaid invoices from slipping through the cracks Presenting a professional front through automated reminders and follow-ups makes clients feel like you have a full team, even if you're a solo operator About Carter Hogan Carter Hocan is the Co-founder and Owner of Vidlead, a video production company. With 10 years of experience as a videographer and producer, Carter gained recognition through his YouTube channel DevinSuperTramp.  He also spent five years with Fulltime Filmmaker Online Film School. Carter's expertise in creative storytelling and video production drives Vidlead's mission to deliver innovative content solutions for businesses and creators alike. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the Show! [06:30] Meet Carter Hogan [11:24] VidLead [14:14] Lead Nurturing [17:59] Monthly Newsletter [22:30] Automated Messaging for Socials [30:54] VidLead Financial and Time Benefits [32:21] Invoicing [47:56] Outro Quotes "People ask me like, what's going to help me? And it's like, well, if you haven't signed up yet, one, you're going to save money because you're going to cancel at least three or four softwares... And then two, you're going to free up a lot of your time so that you can work on your business." - Carter Hogan "If you can automate the low value activities in your business and focus on the higher value activities, you're going to get a lot more bang for your buck. You're going to make a lot more money that way. Cause you're focusing on where your time really should be spent." - Carter Hogan "Even if I'm selling like a $50 broomstick on Amazon, I still have to hit like at least five or six touch points to have somebody trust me enough to buy my $50 broomstick. Now we're talking about thousands of dollars in video production." - Carter Hogan Guest Links Get your first Month free with VidLead Connect with Carter Hogan on LinkedIn Follow VidLead on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Jason Raitz shares his journey from public speaker to communication coach and reveals how seemingly small changes in how we speak with (not at) people can dramatically impact trust, relationships, and revenue. Through powerful stories and practical advice, Jason shows how better communication isn't just nice to have - it's essential for business growth and client retention. Key Takeaways: Most leaders communicate out of fear, manipulation, or force for short-term results - but this approach eventually drives away team members and clients   Effective communication follows the 20/80 principle: be fully present (10%), ask exceptional questions (10%), and genuinely listen (80%)  Your listening skills and communication effectiveness could be costing you $80,000-$100,000 a year and 8 hours of productivity every week  When you speak "with" people rather than "at" them, you'll build trust that naturally generates referrals and increases revenue About Jason Raitz Jason Raitz is on a mission to help leaders speak with people, not at them. As President of Speak with People, he equips leaders with communication skills that build trust, foster loyalty, and drive growth.  Since 1996, Jason has spoken at over 700 events, reaching more than 200,000 people. He also hosts the Speak with People Podcast, inspiring Leaders to refine their communication and deepen relationships.  He and his wife have been married for 28 years and have 5 kids. They're huge advocates for adoption the rare disease community. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:22] Meet Jason Raitz [11:44] Being a Better Communicator [13:43] Words and Actions [23:06] Tips for Better Communication [28:04] Be A Story Collector [34:54] Why Communicate Better? [44:47] Connect with Jason [46:24] Outro Quotes "Real influence isn't demanded, it's earned one meaningful conversation at a time." - Jason Raitz "People will listen to you for a season if you communicate out of force. They will listen to you if you communicate out of fear, if you come down hard on them. But that only works for a short time." - Jason Raitz "When you speak with people, you speak from a place of health. You speak from a place of trust, joy and collaboration. Like you want to get the absolute best." - Jason Raitz "Healthy communication is oxygen for our relationships. And you just breathe life into people. The difference is astounding." - Jason Raitz Guest Links Free Communication Course Find Jason Raitz online Listen to the Speak With People podcast Follow Jason Raitz on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Check out Ryan's resources (including his book, "Speak With People, Not At Them," releasing September 2025) Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Ryan Holck shares his journey from creative implementer to strategic partner, revealing how the right questions at the beginning of a project can completely transform both your client relationships and your bottom line. He breaks down exactly how to stop wasting time on prospects who aren't aligned with your value and start positioning yourself as more than just someone with a nice camera. Key Takeaways Asking "Who's the top person we're trying to reach and what's the next step you hope they'll take?" changes everything about how you approach video projects Bringing up budget expectations early saves everyone time - try saying "Projects like this typically run between $X and $Y" to quickly assess alignment Helping clients understand the value of what you're creating relative to their potential return makes price conversations much easier Good creative work isn't just about technical execution - it's about getting stories that connect emotionally and drive real results About Ryan Holck Ryan Holck is a speaker, author, marketer, and brand messaging strategist. As creator of the Distill Your Story framework, he guides brands to tell their story clearly so they are memorable and referable. He specializes in helping brands identify their unique story, simplify their messaging, and deliver it strategically both online and in person.  Ryan combines storytelling principles with marketing practices to help brands be memorable and referable. His work has spanned industries including: soloprenuers, family-run businesses, green energy, women's health, food safety and state-wide nonprofits. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the Show! [05:18] Meet Ryan Holck [06:12] Focusing On Your Goal [12:03] Discussing Budget With a Client [24:18] Advantage of Creative Storytelling [26:47] Using Testimonials [29:54] Educating Your Clients [36:23] Different Types of Clients [42:02] Connect With Ryan [43:43] Outro Quotes "Great questions lead to great creative. If you could sit and think about what are two or three things that I could ask a potential client that would help me understand what they need, but would also help reveal to the client what truly is going to be the change moment in this project for them." - Ryan Holck "Do not be afraid of the creative process because you were made to be creative. And at the same moment, it is not everything you are, that your creativity is a piece of what you are and who you are, but it is not the entirety of it." - Ryan Holck "The game changer moment for me is when our discovery calls went from me just asking a lot of questions to helping a client understand what kind of client are they." - Ryan Koral Guest Links Find Ryan Holck online Grab your free website audit Follow Ryan Holck on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Connect with Ryan Holck on LinkedIn Follow Distill Your Story on Instagram | Facebook Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Matt Church shares his revolutionary approach to building a fulfilling business centered around your unique expertise and preferences rather than chasing market opportunities. He explains why the "third choice" of running a practice (not just a job or business) creates more freedom, impact, and alignment with who you truly are. Key Takeaways You have three choices: get a job, start a business, or run a practice – and running a practice around what you know gives you more control and fulfillment Your differentiation comes from preference and selection, not trying to broadcast how special you are to everyone • Work from your essence, expertise, and experience to create something unique without the pressure of being completely different from everyone else The "vacation test" is brilliant: would you go on vacation with your clients? If not, they're probably not your ideal clients About Matt Church Matt Church is one of the world's leading strategic thinkers and speakers, known for helping people prepare for tomorrow by taking action today. As the founder of Thought Leaders™, he's dedicated to developing leaders who make a real difference. From his early days as Australian Fitness Leader of the Year to being inducted into the Professional Speaker Hall of Fame, Matt has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible.  He's a bestselling author whose work has been published in 5 countries, and he's recognized as one of the top 21 most influential people in the speaking industry globally. When he's not helping clever people be commercially smart, you'll find him on Sydney's northern beaches restoring his 1962 trawler, Sweet Potato. In This Episode [00:00:00] Welcome to the show! [00:05:56] Meet Matt Church [00:06:39] Thought Leaders Practice Book [00:11:06] Experience and Technical Competency [00:14:43] Imposter Syndrome [00:16:59] Ways of Knowing [00:27:20] “Comparisonitis” [00:48:30] Being Yourself for Others [00:55:11] Scarcity Mindset [01:01:12] Connect with Matt [01:04:03] Outro Quotes "You do the world no service by playing it small. It's a form of false humility and it's not what you were born to do. It is a privilege to be self-expressed and it's a privilege to do so in service to others." - Matt Church "Action precedes confidence. It's much better to launch, to ship, to put yourself on the other side of a declaration and then figure it out. Because we can spend a lot of time on this side getting it right, going ta-da! And it falls flat on its face." - Matt Church "The times we've been most successful is when we've been the most focused – on the audience, the product, the offer, the goal. It's easier to market. It's easier to know where to network." - Ryan Koral Guest Links Find Matt Church online Download any of Matt Church's books (including The Thought Leaders Practice and NEXT) Thought Leaders Business School Be Less Shit On Camera (online program) momacrae.com (coming soon...) Follow Matt Church Instagram | Facebook Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this reunion episode, Ryan catches up with his old friend Sean Stockman (Midlife Stockman), who went from editing wedding videos to building a YouTube channel with over 600,000 subscribers by simply filming property transformations with his phone. Sean shares his journey from corporate America to full-time content creator and how his passion for serving others has created real-world impact beyond the screen. Key Takeaways You don't need fancy equipment to start creating content that resonates - Sean began with just his phone, a tripod, and free editing software  Consistency and authenticity matter more than polish - viewers respond to genuine passion, not perfect production  When you focus on serving others first (in Sean's case, by cleaning up properties and helping neighbors), growth often follows naturally  Building a community around shared values (like "working hard and loving your neighbor") can create impact far beyond what you initially imagined About Sean Stockman Sean Stockman, known online as Midlife Stockman, is a passionate YouTuber who shares his life experiences, community involvement, and personal insights with his growing online community. Through his YouTube channel, along with his active presence on Instagram and Facebook, Sean has built a space where viewers can connect, share their thoughts, and engage with someone who genuinely cares about addressing the needs and concerns of others. With a unique focus on community engagement, Sean's videos are a blend of personal stories and responses to the concerns of his viewers. Whether it's meeting with people to address issues or simply offering a moment of reflection, his content remains down-to-earth and impactful. Although Sean once ran marathons, he hasn't participated in one for about five years, yet his appreciation for his viewers and the support he's received through his work continues to drive him forward. Humble and grateful for the opportunity to connect with his audience, Sean is deeply thankful for the positive impact his community has had on him. In This Episode [00:00:00] Welcome to the show! [00:03:58] Meet Sean Stockman [00:18:13] How Midlife Stockman Began [00:25:59] The Impact You Can Make [00:33:11] YouTube Channel Growth [00:39:43] Sean's Transition From Corporate [00:51:25] Battling Imposter Syndrome [01:00:38] Connect with Sean [01:02:05] Outro Quotes "I think my encouragement to anybody would be your passion will come through. There's ways you can hone your editing and make your sound better, but if you really love what you do and really believe in what you do, it's going to come through and people will see that and respond." - Sean Stockman "People are not going to respond more if your camera is crisper or if your sound is better. What I have found in my experience is people are responding to seeing a genuineness about me... I'm not trying to be someone I'm not." - Sean Stockman "Show up as you. Don't try to be a YouTuber that you follow. Be inspired by their consistency, their content, whatever. But show up as you because the world already has that person... They don't have your story, and your nuances, and your silly personality." - Ryan Koral Guest Links  Follow Sean Stockman on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this value-packed solo episode, Ryan dives into why focusing on one thing is the key to building a sustainable video business. He shares practical insights on breaking free from the feast-or-famine cycle and getting crystal clear on what you really want from your business. Key Takeaways Consistency in marketing wins - but you need to know what to be consistent with Pick 2-4 main goals instead of spreading yourself too thin across many objectives Focus on making one income stream overflow before adding new ones Get super clear on what "done" looks like for your goals  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [01:04] Episode Intro [03:35] 10xFILMMAKER Workshop [05:06] Managing the Peaks and Valleys [06:42] Consistency in Your Marketing [09:10] Clear Business Goals [13:36] Entrepreneurial Operating System [16:51] Multiple Streams of Income [22:17] Outro Quotes "If you're not clear on what your goal is for your business, it's easy to get distracted because you're not on a path, you're not on a clear direction." - Ryan Koral "The times that we've been most successful is when we've been the most focused - on the audience, the product, the offer, the goal. It's easier to market. It's easier to know where to network. So many things become a lot easier when you're really, really focused." - Ryan Koral Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Emmy-winning cinematographer Vanessa Carr shares her journey from indie films to Netflix documentaries, revealing the techniques and mindset shifts that have helped her capture authentic, emotional stories. She opens up about working with high-profile clients like Prince Harry while staying true to the heart of documentary storytelling. Key Takeaways The power of silence in interviews - let those awkward moments hang and magic often follows Stop thinking about "B-roll" and start thinking about "world building" for more intentional visuals Building trust with subjects is crucial - be transparent about expectations and impact from day one Personal documentary projects can actually lead to better commercial opportunities About Vanessa Carr Vanessa Carr is a documentary cinematographer specializing in character-driven cinema vérité. Her long list of credits includes On Pointe (Disney+), Heart of Invictus (Netflix), which was one of Prince Harry's major series, and multiple HBO films. Her work has been on every major platform and screened in festivals including Sundance, SXSW, Tribeca, and TIFF. Vanessa has been a DOCNYC 40 Under 40 honoree, Points North Institute fellow, and instructor at Maine Media Workshops. She recently launched Doc House, a new learning community for documentary filmmakers – and teaches a hugely popular live course, the Documentary Cinematography Intensive. Vanessa holds a master's degree in journalism from UC Berkeley.   In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:08] Meet Vanessa Carr [11:42] Why Doc Film is Meaningful [21:00] Learning From Challenging Projects [30:39] Shooting B-Roll [37:46] Interview Techniques [44:07] DocHouse [46:50] Connect with Vanessa [48:28] Outro Quotes "When I think about B-roll, I get bored... I've started thinking about it more as world building. So if you think about a novel where all of the details are kind of building the world of these characters..." - Vanessa Carr "There's almost a spiritual feeling that I have... especially when you're filming something that's really unfolding in sort of real time... there is such an intense presence that you have, because you have to be completely focused." - Vanessa Carr "I don't want to limit anybody's ability to just get started and create content online. This has completely changed my life, completely changed the trajectory of my career." - Vanessa Carr Guest Links Find Vanessa Carr online Follow DocHouse on Instagram Netflix documentary: "Daughters" Netflix series: "Heart of Invictus" Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Austin Armstrong, CEO of Syllabi, shares his journey from video marketing agency owner to AI software pioneer. In this value-packed episode, he breaks down how to leverage AI tools for content creation while maintaining authenticity, and reveals some surprising strategies for boosting engagement on social media. Key Takeaways  Different types of content serve different audiences - don't limit yourself to one format Repurposing and reposting content is not just okay - it's smart strategy The key to networking isn't pitching yourself - it's asking good questions Being entertaining and adding personality to your content drives better engagement About Austin Armstrong Austin Armstrong is a lifelong digital marketer, public speaker, 2X 7-figure entrepreneur, host of the podcast BusinessTok, and CEO of Syllaby, an AI startup that helps content creators create, schedule, and publish videos in minutes. Austin has posted over 4000 videos on TikTok, tripling his own business's revenue and thousands more across his clients' accounts. Austin has leveraged his success on TikTok to gain millions of followers across every social media platform. He loves sharing the strategies that have worked for him to empower you. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:43] Meet Austin Armstrong  [08:14] Syllaby  [25:16] Staying Top of Mind  [27:17] Content Marketing  [29:45] Repurposing Content  [36:42] Unusual Tips To Get Engagement  [40:52] Easter Eggs In Your Content  [47:09] Invest In Yourself  [49:57] AI Marketing World  [54:04] Connect With Austin  [55:09] Outro Quotes "The only person that sees every post that you put up is you, or your assistant that is posting on your behalf, that's literally the only person." - Austin Armstrong "Don't be afraid to pay for things that are going to level you up and continue to ask yourself in anything that you want to do, what's the best that could happen?" - Austin Armstrong "If you're creating content that's helpful, if you're not leveraging that and exhausting it in every way because the whole intent is to add value and to help people... get the heck out of the way and let it hit." - Ryan Koral Guest Links Find Austin Armstrong online Follow Austin Armstrong on Instagram | Facebook https://syllabi.io/ AI Marketing World https://answersocrates.com/ OpusClip Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Storytelling consultant Katie Quesada breaks down why polished perfection isn't always the answer in video content, and how to create stories that actually move people to take action. She shares practical frameworks for helping people tell better stories and why those raw, behind-the-scenes moments often create deeper connections than highly produced content. Key Takeaways If you want to make someone do something, you have to make them feel something - and stories are the best way to do that Raw, behind-the-scenes content often performs better than polished pieces because it feels more authentic Don't hold back your story - it might be exactly what someone else needs to hear About Katie Quesada Katie is an acclaimed speaker and consultant who is deeply passionate about the art of storytelling. Katie has recently worked with top brands like Zillow, United Healthcare, American Eagle Outfitters (and more!) to ignite their story for more effective communication, high trust within teams, and increased sales. Katie and her husband Danny live with their two daughters in Orange, CA. They spent two years living in a 180 sq ft tiny home and believe that stories are better than stuff. In This Episode 00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:41] Meet Katie Quesada [13:51] Measuring ROI In Video [21:11] 4 Part Workshop [25:02] Helping Others Tell Their Story [29:22] Behind The Scenes [38:10] Connect with Katie [39:36] Outro Quotes "People who choose not to tell their story are choosing to leave out someone else's survival guide... you're literally leaving a map off the table." - Katie Quesada "If you want to make someone do something, you have to make them feel something. We are overwhelmed with noise, facts, ideas, theories, data. We're all drowning in it." - Katie Quesada Guest Links Find Katie Quesada online Get The Three C's of Storytelling free Find out more about Story School Follow Katie Quesada on Instagram Connect with Katie Quesada on LinkedIn Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Artist and creative strategist Mike Brennan opens up about the journey of building a business that aligns with who you are, even as that changes over time. He shares powerful insights about avoiding creative burnout, finding fulfillment outside of client work, and giving yourself permission to evolve. Key Takeaways Give yourself permission to evolve - what worked for you years ago might not be what's right for you now Have creative outlets separate from your paid work to avoid burnout and keep your passion alive Focus on building a business that aligns with who you are today, not who you used to be About Mike Brennan Mike Brennan, author of Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again, isn't your typical Creative Consultant and Communicator; he's a passionate advocate for reigniting the lost art of fun and creativity.  Mike's expertise goes beyond the pages of his book. He's helped renowned clients like Heineken and Chase Bank infuse creativity, innovation, and fun into their work. His art graces prestigious spaces like the Ronald McDonald House and the I.D.E.A. Museum in Mesa, Arizona. What sets Mike apart is his commitment to helping individuals and organizations harness the transformative power of creativity. With a unique Daily Creative Habit process honed over a decade, he empowers people to seamlessly integrate innovation into their routines, making life and work more vibrant and fulfilling. Through his words, art, actions, and unwavering dedication to the cause, Mike inspires us all to make fun not just a habit but a way of life. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [07:10] Meet Mike Brennan [14:31] Creativity in Entrepreneurship [16:03] Listening To Yourself [23:11] Having a Creative Balance [44:05] Connect with Mike [45:45] Outro Quotes "We're not these segmented beings like we like to say - I'm at work and I'm at home, I'm playing and I'm doing client work. Recognizing that and embracing that is key for having a healthier creative balance in our lives." - Mike Brennan "Don't try to emulate somebody else's journey... do the best with what you have before you. That's why I come back to listening to yourself, getting alignment, getting clarity because you're the only one who's responsible for you." - Mike Brennan Guest Links Find Mike Brennan online to take the Creative Archetype quiz & listen to the Creative Chats podcast Follow Mike Brennan on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube Connect with Mike Brennan on Instagram Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Freelance filmmaker Ryan Blaske opens up about his journey from one-man-band to building a production studio, sharing his passion for documentary storytelling and desire to scale without sacrificing quality. He talks candidly about dealing with burnout and his exciting plans to grow Blaske Studio while staying true to the work he loves. Key Takeaways  You don't need employees to start operating like a studio - begin by building a reliable network of contractors and freelancers Focus on what you do best and delegate the rest - whether that's editing, project management, or admin work When scaling up, prioritize working with people who are reliable and have good attitudes - being on time and having a positive mindset are half the battle About Ryan Blaske Creativity has always been important to Ryan. A passion for creating something beautiful, combined with naturally occurring incredible moments, led him to a fascination with videography and photography. He wanted to tell a story with his work that connects with people in a special way—a way that will be remembered for years to come. He specializes in documentaries, music videos, and commercial work nationwide. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:53] Meet Ryan Blaske [04:38] Freelance Filmmaking [08:31] Ryan's Journey To Filmmaking [16:41] Freelancer To Studio Owner [24:10] Freeing Up Your Time [28:29] Attitude Is Everything [32:46] Connect with Ryan [33:47] Outro Quotes "I don't want to be in a position where I'm constantly burning out, then kind of catching back up and then burning out again. I think I would want some kind of system where I can take on all these requests but I'm not just being flooded." - Ryan Blaske "If you're in this freelance world, you are your own boss, so there's not a lot of rules. So try things out, take chances, and believe in yourself that you can take on these big projects and pitch really fun, creative ideas." - Ryan Blaske Guest Links Find Ryan Blaske online Find Ryan Blaske on Instagram Find Blaske Studio on Instagram Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Brand Builders Group's Jeremy Weber reveals compelling research about the impact of personal branding on business growth and provides a practical framework for building authority without getting distracted from your core business. He shares how to strategically position yourself as an expert while maintaining focus on your primary revenue streams. Key Takeaways Focus on building your personal brand as an extension of your business, not a separate entity Start with one-to-one work before scaling to one-to-many and then many-to-one Create content that teaches subsets of your proven process to attract ideal clients Niche down to become known as the expert in one specific area before expanding About Jeremey Weber Jeremy Weber is a founding member and senior strategist at Brand Builders Group. Over his 17+ year career, he has founded, sold and helped to grow multiple companies. His work as a personal brand strategist has supported New York Times bestselling authors, viral TED speakers, celebrity influencers, a Shark Tank investor, and 7+ figure entrepreneurs across many industries. As a founding member and senior leader within Brand Builders Group, he's supported the launch and growth of one of the fastest growing personal brand strategy firms in the world. His work has spanned leading a team of 25+ strategists, overseeing the platform supporting 700+ personal brands, and managing the company's global partner network. As a thought leader in the industry, he has spoken to audiences of 15,000+ and sat on the advisory board of global companies. In his current role, Jeremy is blending his technical and entrepreneurial expertise to support the expansion of the company's book launch service offerings. Through a track record of selling hundreds of thousands of books and 15+ Wall Street Journal and New York Times bestsellers, we are helping our clients make a big positive impact on this world. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:33] Meet Jeremy Weber [06:17] Having A Personal Brand [19:59] Reputation Formula [30:08] Content and Positioning [46:09] Having A Clear Audience [53:05] Connect with Jeremy [55:40] Outro Quotes "The number one reason that people fail is they're trying to do too many things for too many people... We have the saying diluted focus equals diluted results." - Jeremy Weber "If you're not focused enough on what you want to be great at, you're not seeing things that most people aren't even seeing." - Jeremy Weber "If you care about what you do and you're good at it, you're solving real problems for people that need a solution and their lives are better as a result of working with you." - Jeremy Weber Guest Links Find Jeremy Weber online Check out The Influential Personal Brand podcast Follow Jeremy Weber on Instagram  Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Author and speaker Terry Weaver challenges conventional hustle culture wisdom and shares a more sustainable approach to building a successful business. He discusses why true success means defining it on your own terms and building intentional rest into your business model. Key Takeaways  Success looks different for everyone - define it based on the life you actually want Build intentional seasons of rest into your business model Focus on creating genuine value and relationships instead of just moving money around Take at least one week off per quarter to truly disengage from work About Terry Weaver Terry Weaver is a speaker, author, event producer, podcaster, and ideapreneur whose passion is to see others live life alive; whether through helping others see their dreams become reality, traveling around the world challenging students to change the world, leading teams of people to do more together than they could alone, or hanging out with Mickey Mouse. With a background in the music business, Terry has helped creatives navigate the journey from the garage to the biggest stages in the world. Whether it's getting to the stage of Grammys®, helping entrepreneurs with a six-figure product launch, or leading conversations with key thought leaders his mission is always the same to help leaders take what they are doing to the next level.  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:02] Meet Terry Weaver [15:33] Balancing AI In Your Business [21:58] Utilizing Riverside [23:29] Idea Generation [36:54] The Unhealthy Hustle [44:08] The Season For Hustle [55:22] Connect with Terry [56:08] Outro Quotes "Hustle's a season. Even through several of the things when a lot of people thought Gary Vaynerchuk was trying to convince us to be all hustle... there has to be balance." - Terry Weaver "When you know what you really care about, you also know who you care about helping. And when you start to know who you care about helping, you start to ask yourself, how can what I know help answer the question that's keeping them up all night?" - Terry Weaver "When I've been the most effective, I followed my rule of taking a week off, around a week off every quarter." - Terry Weaver Guest Links Find out what type of entrepreneur you are. Take the short quiz. Find Terry Weaver online Follow Terry Weaver on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Kolbe Certified Business Consultant Eryn Morgan breaks down how understanding your natural work style can help you build the perfect team and finally delegate those tasks you hate. She shares practical strategies for finding the right help, even on a tight budget, and explains why some tasks that drive you crazy might be someone else's dream job. Key Takeaways Your perfect hire doesn't need to be a unicorn who does everything - start by delegating one task you hate Use the "brilliance list" exercise to identify tasks you should keep versus delegate There are people who genuinely love doing the tasks you hate - you just need to find them About Eryn Morgan Eryn Morgan is a Kolbe Certified™ Business Consultant who helps creative agency owners, designers, and other "accidental" entrepreneurs build strong teams. She understands the challenges of having a creative mindset and helps her clients use their natural strengths to their advantage. Eryn guides her clients to: Clarify their vision and identify their ideal team structure Understand their own strengths and how they can best be supported Find and hire ideal team members who complement their existing team Eryn has helped numerous clients build high-performing teams that allow them to focus on what they do best. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the Show! [05:39] Meet Eryn Morgan [07:28] EOS and Kolbe [11:56] Personality Differences in a Team [17:59] A Bridge Personality [22:17] Optimizing Based on Strengths [29:37] Full Time Hiring Alternatives [32:47] The Brilliance List [35:15] 20 Dollar an Hour Tasks [43:19] Proposals Based on Personalities [49:10] Connect with Eryn [51:50] Outro Quotes "The world is full of amazing people who love things that we don't love. And when we start to look big picture, we can start with passing off the $20 task and feel a little better about it when that person's eyes light up when we hand it over." - Eryn  "Don't ever do $20 an hour tasks... find something that's like one hour a week, that if you could free up that one hour, and then you use that brand new hour that you just won back over the next four weeks or eight weeks to work on your business." - Ryan "Your perfect hire doesn't need to be a unicorn who does everything - start by delegating one task you hate and build from there." - Eryn  Guest Links Find Eryn Morgan online Connect with Eryn Morgan on LinkedIn Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this year-end reflection, Ryan shares honest thoughts about the challenges facing video production businesses in 2024 and the importance of community in entrepreneurship. He opens up about his own revenue struggles while staying optimistic about opportunities in 2025, especially for those willing to adapt to changing client needs and new technologies. Key Takeaways The video production landscape is changing rapidly with AI - focus on being adaptable and learning new tools while maintaining what makes your work uniquely valuable Community and accountability are crucial for business growth - find people who will both support and challenge you Done is better than perfect - having accountability helps you actually complete projects rather than aiming for perfection In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:36] 10xFILMMAKER [04:48] Reflection Over The Years [11:58] Keeping Up With The Changes [14:32] Importance Of Community [21:40] How To Get Plugged In [29:19] Outro Quotes "There is still a need for storytelling. There's still a need for professional video. There's still a need for you in this work, but the things that maybe you became really great at aren't as needed as much." - Ryan Koral  "When I think about running a business, one of the best things that I did from the very beginning was I plugged myself into a community. I didn't want to do this alone." - Ryan Koral  "If you don't have any accountability, holy cow get some... You'll be able to do more. And it might not be perfect, but it'll be done." - Ryan Koral Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Positioning strategist Mischa Zvegintzov shares how video business owners can leverage podcast guesting to reach new audiences and generate revenue without complex marketing funnels. He reveals his simple pitch template and seven key benefits of podcast guesting that create both immediate and long-term business opportunities. Key Takeaways You don't need fancy materials to start podcast guesting - just an email address and your stories Focus on building relationships and providing value rather than direct sales Use podcast appearances to create ongoing content and build thought leadership Look for collaboration opportunities with hosts beyond just reaching their audience About Mischa Zvegintzov Mischa is a seasoned sales expert who once retired to teach yoga and be a stay-at-home dad. Now, as Chief Influence Officer of The Influence Army and host of the top 1.5% podcast the Table Rush Talk Show, he helps heart centered entrepreneurs amplify their message and build influence without costly advertising. Are you ready to go on an Influence Tour? In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:10] Meet Mischa Zvegintzov [11:37] Benefits of a Podcast Tour [20:30] Repurposing Interviews For Social [25:50] Preparing For a Podcast [35:27] Connect with Mischa [36:10] Outro Quotes "The best is the enemy of more than good enough. So I'm constantly like, just do it, press forward, take the action, test and try, learn." - Mischa "Most people, when they decide that they want to guest speak on podcasts, they start thinking, I need to have my bio, I need to have headshots...It's like, no, you don't. All you need is an email address." - Mischa "Don't wait because you have something that can be helpful for others. What you're doing is you're showing up and you're bringing that value and you're helping somebody along the way." - Ryan  Guest Links Free Guide: Launch A Successful and Profitable Podcast Tour Connect with Mischa Zvegintzov on LinkedIn Links  Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Positioning strategist Delia Monk shares practical strategies for transforming video portfolios into client-converting websites. She reveals common mistakes creatives make with their web copy and provides actionable tips for showcasing work in a way that resonates with potential clients. Key Takeaways Your videos need compelling copy above them to give viewers a reason to click play Use client testimonials and results to build credibility and overcome sales resistance Focus copy on the client ("you") rather than yourself ("I/we") Include clear pricing information or frameworks to encourage contact form submissions About Delia Monk Delia Monk helps online business owners who want to sell out their online programs, services, and digital products using the power of conversion copywriting. If she was cool enough to have a street name, hers would be The Story-Seller because she's mastered the art of non-sleazy sales through the power of storytelling and personality-fueled writing. But alas, most people just call her Delia. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:21] Meet Delia Monk [03:47] Handling Videos On Your Website [08:46] Taking Advantage of Testimonials [15:31] Building Trust and Credibility [19:05] Sending a Survey [21:22] Having Contact Forms Filled [28:49] Connect with Delia [30:15] Outro Quotes "The more creative you are and the more talented you are, the more you think you don't need to write about it. And I am really sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it doesn't work like that." - Delia Monk "If you're not confident in talking about the results that you can get and showcasing the kind of clients that you work with, how can potential clients be confident in you?" - Delia  "Copy is so much easier than you think it is when you can just get out of your head and just think about the person you're writing to." - Delia  Guest Links Find Delia Monk online Follow Delia Monk on Instagram Grab the secret 3-step plan to writing a website that shines and sells Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week" Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Brandi Mowles shares her journey from bankruptcy to building a 7-figure business by moving away from hourly rates to strategic packaging of services. She provides practical insights on pricing psychology, creating valuable packages, and adding consulting services to increase revenue while better serving clients.  Key Takeaways Moving from hourly to package pricing allows you to charge based on value rather than time Niching down helps streamline your business and makes it easier to create effective packages Adding consulting services can help you leverage your expertise and create recurring revenue When people pay for your expertise, they're more likely to implement and value your advice About Brandi Mowles Brandi Mowles, founder of Conversions For Clients™ and Strategist Society™ is a wife, mom, taco snob, podcast host, and online marketing expert. She transformed her family's life by building a 7-figure business in just two years, giving them more choices and freedom than she could have ever imagined.  Now she's obsessed with helping freelancers achieve success on their own terms while living a life they could have only dreamed about. Brandi lives in Georgia with her husband and two kids. They live for morning Peloton rides, taco Tuesdays, spontaneous vacations, and Fridays off. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:08] Meet Brandi Mowles [08:19] Social Media Management [12:35] How To Price Yourself [18:32] Hourly Verses Packages [24:52] Creating Packages [34:26] Consulting [47:17] Connect with Brandi [48:57] Outro Quotes "What you find so simple and so easy that comes naturally to you, does not come naturally to other people." - Brandi "When you niche down, it's not just so people love to work with specialty... people want to work with people who specialize, cause it makes them feel special." - Brandi  "Our best clients, our best projects have been the ones where clients have gone through a workshop... They're invested here and they're gonna appreciate it more because we've paid for this." - Ryan Guest Links How to Have a $100k Year with Only 5 Clients Per Month Find Brandi Mowles Instagram Serve Scale Soar podcast Links  Find out about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Get my framework inside the Video Blueprint Method   FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week" Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes  

Video production expert Zephan Moses Blaxburg shares his journey from running a traditional studio to creating a more efficient and profitable business model through remote editing and strategic partnerships. He discusses practical strategies for scaling a video production business while maintaining work-life balance. Key Takeaways Building strong referral partnerships with photographers, IT companies, and web designers can lead to consistent high-value projects Effective delegation of editing work can free up time and increase productivity Creating detailed standard operating procedures is crucial for successful remote team management About Zephan Moses Blaxberg Zephan Moses Blaxberg is a live streamer, video content creator and best-selling author. He founded his video production company, ZMB Media in 2014 and grew it to a multi-six-figure business as a one man band. Having worked with Fortune-500 company executives to celebrities, NBA stars and even the White House, Zephan has extensive knowledge in building a video production business from scratch and growing it to thrive.  More recently, a pivot to live streaming has allowed him to offer a unique service to the market reducing his editing time and increasing his ability to sell services for higher prices. In his spare time, you'll find Zephan as the admin of a 13,000 member Facebook group of videographers worldwide and releasing tutorials about live streaming on his YouTube channel. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:39] Meet Zephan [06:24] Zephan's Journey to Videography [07:48] What Does "Story" Mean? [14:14] Studios and Video Editors [23:48] Training a Video Editor [29:55] Explain Your Why [33:50] Riverside [35:09] Referral Partners [40:34] Content Creation [43:53] Connect with Zephan [46:12] Outro Quotes "When you get that space, you're going to find ways to fill it. So you're going to make excuses to buy more stuff. And when you don't always need it." - Zephan "Other times it's because they don't necessarily see the value in what you're giving to them... once they see that value, the sky's the limit." - Zephan "If you're stuck, frustrated, if things aren't going, you know how you desire them to go, it's like you have the option, you have the opportunity and are you going to take it?" - Ryan Guest Links Videographers Pricing Calculator Follow Zephan Moses Blaxberg on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group   Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, brand designer and strategist Jacob Cass shares his expertise on how video business owners can leverage strategic branding to stand out in a crowded market. Jacob discusses the importance of brand clarity, positioning, and the value of investing in professional branding services to attract ideal clients and boost business success. Key Takeaways Understanding your brand's core value, target audience, and market position is crucial for business growth A well-defined brand strategy can boost confidence and make marketing efforts more effective Investing in professional branding services can lead to long-term business success and higher-quality clients About Jacob Cass Jacob Cass is a brand designer, strategist, educator, podcaster, business coach, community builder and the founder of JUST Creative, a branding & design consultancy that doubles as an industry-leading blog and community. Jacob helps grow brands strategically and has worked for clients such as Disney, Nintendo and Jerry Seinfeld however he is now focused on bringing this global brand experience to smaller businesses. Jacob co-hosts the JUST Branding Podcast which helps designers & entrepreneurs grow brands.   For Jacob, design is a lifelong journey of continuously honing his craft, as well as empowering other fellow designers & entrepreneurs to build on theirs, which has allowed him to build a large and loyal following, including his JUST Creative website which has been viewed over 70 million times. Jacob has spoken at TEDx and been featured in Entrepreneur, Forbes, and a number of high-profile design books including The Best of Logo Lounge Master Series. He also coaches creatives in his coaching community, Exponential Creatives, either 1:1 or in a group mastermind setting. Yahoo! recently declared him as the “Best Brand Coach”. Jacob also runs the membership community Exponential Creatives which helps creatives grow exponentially. Jacob is a digital nomad and travels the world now isolated in Sydney with his family of five, while running JUST Creative. He has visited 88 countries thus far with travel guides on most of them available at his travel blog, JUST Globetrotting. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:28] Meet Jacob Cass [10:11] Brand Identity [12:36] Branding Through Your Value [20:52] Positioning [28:46] Framing of Your Brand [39:13] Getting Yourself Established [41:05] Connect with Jacob [42:46] Outro Quotes "Brand runs deep. It really does. It's a deep rabbit hole. And the more you learn, the more you realize you don't know." - Jacob Cass "You have to understand what you specialize in, what work you want to be doing. If you're early in your career, you can create mock projects to put in your portfolio to show and communicate what you do." - Jacob Cass "If you don't have testimonials and then make sure that if you're getting testimonies, you're getting the right kind of testimonies, not just ones where people are just like, "Ryan's awesome or Jacob. He's he's great. He's just, you know, fun to work with.' It's like, OK, that that stuff is nice. But did I help you get any results? Did you have any transformation?" - Ryan Koral Guest Links Find Jacob Cass online Listen to the JUST Creative podcast Download the (free) Branding Briefcase branding & design resources Check out the Branding Briefcase Newsletter Follow Jacob Cass on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Pinterest Connect with Jacob Cass on LinkedIn Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Jason Duncan shares his journey from school teacher to successful entrepreneur and business coach. He discusses the crucial differences between owning a job and owning a business, and provides actionable strategies for video business owners to create more freedom and build true business value. Key Takeaways The three tiers of entrepreneurial evolution: owner-operator, owner-manager, and owner-investor The importance of basic delegation as the first step towards business freedom Why consistency outperforms intensity in business growth and personal development How to shift focus from revenue to building a valuable business asset About Jason Duncan The Real Jason Duncan transforms overwhelmed entrepreneurs into liberated business owners. Creator of the XOS™ Method and best-selling author of "Exit Without Exiting," Jason builds "vacation-proof" businesses that thrive without constant owner involvement. Through his Exiter Club and coaching programs, Jason guides founders from trapped owner-operators to strategic owner-investors. Clients often halve their work hours while significantly increasing business value. A 2-time TEDx speaker and podcast host featured in Inc. and Entrepreneur magazines, Jason empowers business owners to scale effectively, implement robust systems, and master delegation. Based in Nashville, Jason enjoys adventures with his high school sweetheart—a lifestyle his methods made possible. He inspires entrepreneurs to achieve financial success and personal freedom, preparing for a profitable exit while living their ideal life now. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:07] Meet The Real Jason Duncan [11:32] Exit Without Exiting [14:50] Creating a Job or a Business [17:13] 3 Tiers of Entrepreneurial Evolution [23:41] The XOS System [28:52] Enjoying Creative Work [33:15] Consistency & Authenticity [41:20] Where Your Focus Is [42:48] Connect with Jason [44:04] Outro Quotes "There are no billionaire owner-operators. They just don't exist." - Jason Duncan "Consistency outperforms intensity every day of the week. It's not the intense force of the water that carves the canyon. It's the consistent force of the water over time that carves the canyon." - Jason Duncan "If a job is less than a $100 an hour job, you need to hire somebody else to do that job." - Jason Duncan "Our sole role as an architect of the business is to set the vision, communicate the vision and build the asset." - Jason Duncan Guest Links Find Jason Duncan online Follow Jason Duncan on Instagram | YouTube Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Adam Rosen shares his expertise on effective cold email strategies for video business owners. He breaks down the key components of a successful outreach campaign, including proper email infrastructure, personalization techniques, and the importance of patience. Adam also reveals a clever approach to offering mini video audits that can significantly boost response rates and lead to more qualified prospects. Key Takeaways Set up separate domains for cold email outreach to protect your main business email reputation Structure your initial email with a clear purpose, problem you solve, solution, social proof, and call-to-action Offer a personalized video audit as a lead magnet to increase engagement and qualify prospects Aim for 1 positive reply per 1000 emails sent, and remember that patience combined with persistence is key to success About Adam Rosen Adam Rosen, a world-traveling entrepreneur, sold his first tech startup in 2019. He now leads eocworks.com, helping companies get sales through cold email, and thenomadcloud.com (200k subscribers), supporting entrepreneurs who want to explore the world. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:14] Meet Adam Rosen [06:39] Cold Email Outreach [13:05] Where to Start [18:08] Best Practices [21:25] Email Framework [22:24] Avoiding The Spam Folder [27:50] Getting Set Up [34:54] Connect with Adam [36:29] Outro Quotes "If you move the industry forward, then you did something good with your startup." - Adam Rosen "The biggest mistake people make is not about email copy. It's not even about getting quality lists. It starts at the front, which is the foundation." - Adam Rosen "Patience is a virtue as long as we are growing step by step by step trying to get to where our goals are and we're working hard to get there and doing the right things along the way." - Adam Rosen Guest Links Find Adam Rosen online Follow Adam Rosen on Instagram Links  Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this game-changing episode, sales expert Matt Easton reveals how video business owners can transform their approach to landing clients and growing their business. Matt shares powerful strategies for having meaningful conversations that convert, including how to lead with valuable insights about your client's business rather than just pitching your services. You'll walk away with actionable techniques to confidently reach out to potential clients and close more deals without feeling sleazy. Key Takeaways  Learn how to shift your mindset from being a creative to a business owner who solves real problems for clients Discover the power of asking "Does it make sense?" instead of yes/no questions to smoothly move deals forward Master the art of the "power email" to summarize client needs and set clear next steps Gain confidence in reaching out to potential clients by using the simple yet effective "raise your hand" technique About Matt Easton Matt Easton is a catalyst for success in sales, business, and life. Having created sales coaching systems that have revolutionized the way people achieve business results. Through his businesses, universities, and YouTube channels, Matt helps people get better in minutes, where normally they had struggled for years. Sales is hard. Matt Easton makes it a whole lot easier, more predictable, less stressful, and more fun. Skip the guesswork, trial-and-error, and never-ending cycle of trying to figure everything out yourself. And instead, grow your sales with a proven step-by-step system for closing the deal. (not hopes and prayers). In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [08:20] Meet Matt Easton [08:26] Easton University Sales Coaching [14:30] Getting Leads Through Sales [15:42] Asking The Right Questions [20:07] Answering the ROI Question [28:56] Next Step Obsessed [30:43] Power Emails [35:37] Proactive Search For Clients [52:06] Connect with Matt [54:01] Outro Quotes  "Everything that is worth something, getting a new client, getting a first date, getting married, getting a promotion, getting a loan for your business, everything in life that matters has this in common: When you slow down in the beginning, you will speed up the result in the end." - Matt Easton "You're not in the creative business. You're not in the video production business. You're in the awareness business. You're in the omnipresence business. You're in the driving businesses forward business." - Matt Easton "If you are truly in business, your business methodology should not need you to be friends with anybody. Amateurs make friends with people. Amateurs ask their friends if they have any work. Professionals are able to have one-sided conversations, and that conversation is about the gosh darn client." - Matt Easton "You guys are in the business of helping the world grow, okay? So that should be something you're very proud of. And that should motivate you to get out of bed." - Matt Easton Guest Links  Find Matt Easton online Follow Matt Easton on Instagram | TikTok | YouTube Links  Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER  Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this solo episode, Ryan Koral shares encouragement and insights for video business owners facing challenges in the current industry landscape. He emphasizes the importance of community, adaptability, and maintaining an abundance mindset. Ryan also discusses the value of investing in yourself through coaching and mastermind groups to grow your business. Key Takeaways Building a community of fellow video professionals is crucial for growth and support Be open to experimenting with new strategies if old methods aren't working Focus on providing value and authenticity in your video work Consider investing in coaching or mastermind groups to accelerate your business growth In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:52] Be Open To New Things [10:59] Having a Community [12:42] Handling Competition and Fear [17:02] 10xFILMMAKER Community [20:00] Mastermind [24:33] Outro Quotes "Most of us get into this work because we love it so much. Uh, some of us feel called into this work." "Living open handedly, I think has been like one of the most freeing and satisfying things that I've done." "People who pay pay attention. So when there's money on the line, you're, you're more likely to do the thing." "I'm a firm believer that if you feel called to this work, uh, it is your responsibility to figure out how to keep doing it and how to do it well and how to create predictability and how to be profitable." Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Mastermind  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode of the show, negotiation expert John Lowry reveals how mastering the art of negotiation can transform your video production business. He shares practical strategies for managing yourself in negotiations, creating win-win scenarios, and ensuring client satisfaction beyond just delivering a great product. John's insights and real-world examples demonstrate how effective negotiation skills can lead to better deals, stronger client relationships, and significant business growth. Key Takeaways  Negotiation is a fundamental skill used daily in video production, from client interactions to problem-solving on set Effective negotiation involves managing yourself, balancing competitiveness with cooperation, and being clear about your intentions Look beyond monetary terms in negotiations; consider how clients can help you achieve broader business goals Client satisfaction depends on three key factors: the product, the process, and how you manage people throughout the project About John Lowry John Lowry is a recognized authority on negotiation through his experience as a lawyer, business consultant, entrepreneur, negotiation coach, and university administrator. His results-focused, systematic approach to negotiation has been successfully implemented by thousands of professionals across the United States. He is the author of Negotiation Made Simple, a top selling business book on Amazon published by HarperCollins. He is also a sought after conference and corporate event speaker having served organizations such as UPS, Pinnacle Financial Partners, HCA, LexisNexis, Colliers, American Excess Insurance Exchange, American Legal Connections, and the American Society of Civil Engineers.  John serves as co-founder and principal of Thrivence, a management consulting firm based in Nashville, TN. In addition to guiding the firm, John counsels clients on strategy, revenue growth, leadership development, and conflict management. He also serves as president of The Lowry Group, LLC (“TLG”). At TLG, he provides negotiation training and coaching for governmental entities, major insurance companies, law firms, health care organizations, and other businesses. John is regularly engaged as settlement counsel by parties in litigation and has successfully negotiated the resolution of hundreds of lawsuits over the past decade. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [07:36] Meet John Lowry [08:17] Negotiation [14:28] Negotiation Made Simple Book [15:04] Manage Yourself [17:00] Competitive and Cooperative [18:10] Be Willing to Forgive [18:39] Be Crystal Clear [19:47] Negotiation In Action Examples [40:23] Satisfaction [45:14] Connect with John [46:31] Outro Quotes "The most important thing that you can learn how to manage is yourself." - John Lowry "If you manage the process really well and you treat the people really well, it's amazing to me how many times people will forgive a glitch in the product." - John Lowry "I want the good people to win in this world and so I'm excited to come alongside them and help them figure out how to win whatever that looks like." - John Lowry Guest Links  Find John Lowry online Negotiation Made Simple. by John Lowry Listen to the Negotiation Made Simple podcast Follow John Lowry on Facebook Links Find out more about the Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode of the show, Legendary Art Center professor and business coach Errol Gerson shares his wisdom from 50+ years of teaching and mentoring creatives. He reveals powerful strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, standing out in a crowded market, and achieving success through mindset shifts and gratitude practices. Errol's inspiring stories and practical advice will motivate video business owners to embrace their role as storytellers and take their careers to new heights. Key Takeaways  Change your perspective: "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at will change." Success is a choice, not chance: Create opportunities by putting yourself out there and standing out from the crowd. Embrace gratitude daily: Developing a "gratitude attitude" can transform your outlook and lead to greater success. Reframe your identity: You're not just a videographer, you're a storyteller - this mindset shift can open new doors and opportunities. About Errol Gerson Errol was born and raised in South Africa and left in 1966 to study at USC majoring in Accounting undergrad and Finance and Management at the MBA level, also at USC. He worked in public accounting for 6 years before founding his own accounting and Business mgmt firm for over 20 years. Since then he has practiced as a strategic financial and management consultant and has taught entrepreneurship for 49 years at the Art Center College of Design. He is now doing online (Zoom, etc.) financial consulting with businesses across the globe, and he counsel and coach group of 10-15 businesses to teach and answer specific questions about income tax (if in the U.S.) or strategic financial planning and decision making, break-even analysis, and setting specific sales goals that reach break-even. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:01] Meet Errol Gerson [05:19] Journey to Teaching Business [07:28] Understand Your Audience [09:44] Changing Your Perspective [10:43] Getting Yourself Out There [19:42] An Eighth of an Inch [30:53] Believing In Yourself [40:29] Seek First to Understand [46:40] Connect with Errol [47:51] Outro Quotes  "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at will change." - Errol Gerson "Success is not chance, it's choice." - Errol Gerson "Smile: Small Movement that Improves your Life Every day." - Errol Gerson "Your clients change lives. They're storytellers and storytellers are gifted people." - Errol Gerson "If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you." - Errol Gerson Guest Links Find Errol Gerson online Connect with Errol Gerson on LinkedIn Links Find out more about the Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode of the podcast, discover how to keep more of your hard-earned money with CPA and tax strategist Amanda Han. Learn game-changing strategies for video business owners, including the benefits of S-corps, smart write-offs, and using real estate to build wealth. Amanda shares practical tips to transform your approach to taxes and finance, helping you maximize profits and minimize stress. Key Takeaways  Learn how transitioning to an S-corp could significantly reduce your tax bill and save you thousands Discover often-overlooked tax write-offs for video professionals, including strategies for travel expenses Explore how real estate investments can boost your wealth-building efforts and provide tax advantages Understand the importance of regular bookkeeping and finding the right CPA to support your business goals About Amanda Han Amanda Han & Matt MacFarland are CPAs and tax strategists who specialize in helping people use real estate to save massive amounts in taxes and keep their hard earned money. They help educate investors on how to maximize tax write-offs, legal entity strategies, tax-efficient ways to access profit, how to use 401K money for real estate, and much more. They are authors of the highly rated book Tax Strategies for the Savvy Real Estate Investor and they have been featured in prominent publications including the Forbes Finance Council,  Money Magazine, Talks at Google,  CNBC's Smart Money Talk Radio as well as the BiggerPockets podcasts. Today, Amanda & Matt have helped thousands of investors nationwide to save on taxes with proactive tax planning. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:52] Meet Amanda Han [11:31] Write-Offs [21:39] S-Corp Versus LLC [35:08] Record-Keeping [38:30] Real Estate [47:01] Connect with Amanda [49:55] Outro Quotes  "It's not about how much money you make, it's about how much of it you actually get to keep." - Amanda Han, quoting Robert Kiyosaki "Saving more money really is the same as making more money. When you save in taxes, that's the easiest money you can make because it was already your money to begin with." - Amanda Han "We don't spend money for the write-off. The best way to do is to take a look at what we are already spending money on anyways, and say, how can I make sure this is a legitimate write-off?" - Amanda Han "What got you here won't get you there." - Ryan Koral, discussing business growth and the need for fresh strategies "I always look at what can we document before the trip, before that transaction, so that if it were to be questioned, I have a legitimate way to say, well, yeah, I spent $5,000 on that trip because I had these requests from these clients." - Amanda Han, on properly documenting business expenses Guest Links  Find Amanda Han online Follow Amanda Han on Instagram Access the free Tax Savings Toolkit Links  Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode of the podcast, John Bilski shares his journey from wedding videographer to multi-brand video entrepreneur, specializing in both wedding and education sectors. He discusses strategies for breaking into the education market, the importance of face-to-face networking, and how to build separate brands for different niches. John also offers inspiring advice on finding fulfillment in your work and taking bold steps to grow your video business. Key Takeaways Diversify your video business by creating separate brands for different niches Break into the education market through relationship-building and face-to-face networking Leverage your passion and unique perspective to stand out in competitive markets Focus on work that truly fulfills you - success and financial rewards will follow About John Bilski John started in video production as an assistant editor at $8 an hour in 2002. Now, 22 years later, he runs his own production company he started with a love for evoking emotion through film. He's also ruggedly good looking - LOL  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:52] Meet John Bilski [07:41] Mastermind [10:06] John's Journey To Video [13:10] Education Video Clients [31:58] Handling Multiple Niches [38:32] John's Encouragement [44:22] Outro Quotes "If you can get somebody to cry, that's our goal." - John Bilski, on creating emotional impact in videos "Practice what you preach at a certain point. And so I've tried to make it a goal of mine to start a YouTube channel very soon." - John Bilski, discussing the importance of personal branding "What got you here won't get you there." - Ryan Koral, on the need to evolve business strategies for continued growth Guest Links  Follow High Tide Media on Instagram Follow Bilski Productions on Instagram Follow Edu Films on Instagram Follow John Bilski on Instagram | Facebook Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Bradley Hamner, Founder and CEO of BlueprintOS, shares his journey from being a workaholic entrepreneur to becoming the architect of his business. He emphasizes the importance of creating systems and processes to upgrade the operating system of a business.  Bradley discusses the common belief that entrepreneurs must do everything themselves and highlights the need to train and delegate to a team. He also emphasizes the mindset, skillset, and toolset required to transition from being the rainmaker to the architect of a business.  Becoming the architect of your business involves five milestones: having a business generating over a million dollars in revenue, achieving a ratio of 40 or above between year-over-year growth and profitability, taking 12 weeks off in a year, having an executive assistant to buy back your time, and installing an operating system that exists independently of you.  Working on your business, not just in it, is crucial for growth. Standardizing processes and documents in the business is important for creating a culture of design and intentionality. Implementing ideas is key to creating real change. Key Takeaways Upgrade the operating system of your business by creating systems and processes. Train and delegate to a team to avoid being the bottleneck in your business. Adopt the mindset of an architect and design the systems that will run your business. Acquire the necessary skills and tools to effectively manage and scale your business.  Working on your business, not just in it, is essential for growth and success. Standardizing processes and documents in the business creates a culture of design and intentionality. Implementing ideas and taking action is crucial for creating real change in your business. About Bradley Hamner Bradley started his first business in 2009 with no customers, no leads, and very little cash but he did have a desire to win and succeed. After working around the clock for 5 years, Bradley had a health scare in his 30s. Knowing something had to change, he focused on building his leadership first, and then he began “architecting” his business to work for him. This led him to designing the ultimate operating system for business owners - BlueprintOS. This framework has empowered business owners to move successfully from rainmaker to architect in their business. Now, Bradley is a Business Growth Coach, certified Value Builder, and host of the Above The Business Podcast. Each week, he shows other entrepreneurs & business owners how to install the systems, processes, and routines their business needs to grow and scale.  The ultimate outcome? Business owners have a successful business that creates the freedom and flexibility they desired from the start. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:48] Meet Bradley Hamner [07:58] BluePrintOS [11:11] The Architect of Your Business [27:36] The Five Milestones [32:48] On, In, And Above [49:52] Connect with Bradley [51:03] Outro Quotes "The business got bigger to the point to where then the business got bigger than me and started to sling me around." - Bradley Hamner “What I was really doing is I was transitioning myself from being the rainmaker to where like it was all dependent upon me to really I started to become the architect of the business.” - Bradley “It's really about working on your business and not just in your business.” - Ryan Koral “There are times that we need to get above the business. And I would even share with someone that listening to a podcast, going to a conference as an example, going to a strategic coach, those are times I wasn't working on that business. I was working above my business.” - Bradley Guest Links Learn more about the BlueprintOS Assets Find Bradley Hamner online Follow Bradley Hamner on Instagram | Facebook Links  Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Onward Summit  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode of the Grow Your Video Business Show, we're tackling three game-changing strategies for video professionals looking to level up their business. We dive into the power of offering strategic workshops to clients, explore effective ways to find work and promote yourself, and unpack the nitty-gritty of retainers, contracts, and partnerships. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build stronger client relationships, create consistent income streams, and position yourself as a sought-after video partner.  Key Takeaways  Offering Workshops The power of strategic planning sessions with clients How to package and price your workshops Using workshops to land bigger projects Finding Work and Self-Promotion Tips for showcasing your best work Strategies for reaching ideal clients Balancing different types of projects Retainers, Contracts, and Partnerships The importance of written agreements Structuring retainer deals for consistent income Navigating business partnerships In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:11] Offering a paid workshop [21:32] Finding work and promoting brand [39:11] Retainer contracts [01:03:01] Outro Quotes "The magic word is start. Go ugly early. Like don't just get out of your head. Just do the thing." - Ryan Koral "People are more invested when they're paying money, right? So there's this feeling that they're already showing up to the table with like pen in hand and like ready for you to lead them versus somebody that's in interviewing you to figure out if they want to hire you." - Ryan Koral Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

Robert Teegarden, owner of Create Your Own Path Productions, shares his journey into running a video business and the importance of creativity in society. He discusses the role of creatives in shedding light on different perspectives and telling stories.  Robert emphasizes the need for creatives to respond to the needs of the world and act on their ideas. He also highlights the value of consistent practice and getting the reps in to improve one's craft. Robert's work today focuses on small business video marketing and production in the health and wellness and music niches.  The conversation explores the importance of consistent and high-quality visual communication in building brand value and perception. It emphasizes the need for creatives to understand the business side of their work and translate their creativity into tangible ROI for clients. The concept of repurposing content and creating a suite of services is discussed as a way to maximize value for clients.  The conversation also highlights the power of behind-the-scenes content in humanizing brands and building authentic connections with consumers. The key takeaway is to focus on the purpose and joy of being a creative and to remember the impact and value of the work being done. Key Takeaways  Creatives have a unique role in society to shed light on different perspectives and tell stories. Responding to the needs of the world and acting on creative ideas is essential. Consistent practice and getting the reps in are crucial for improvement. Small business video marketing and production can be focused on specific niches like health and wellness and music. Consistent and high-quality visual communication is crucial for building brand value and perception. Creatives need to understand the business side of their work and translate their creativity into tangible ROI for clients. Repurposing content and creating a suite of services can maximize value for clients. Behind-the-scenes content is powerful in humanizing brands and building authentic connections with consumers. Focus on the purpose and joy of being a creative and remember the impact and value of the work being done. About Robert Teegarden Robert is a life-long creative. He started as a musician and has traveled the world performing as a vocalist and bassist. He has a Masters and undergraduate in Music Business and worked in the industry for 15 years.  In his early 30s, he left his corporate job and started making short films and the rest is history. He has been the creative alongside Ron "Boss" Everline, Kevin Hart's personal trainer and business partner, and worked with several multinational brands like Chase, Yamaha, Easton Sports Cellucor and more. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:19] Meet Robert Teegarden [07:51] A Creative's Role In Society [11:51] Robert's Journey Into Production [23:40] Maximize Value For Your Client [39:41] Connect With Robert [40:27] Outro Quotes “We occupy a very specific role in society and we have this need and ability to be able to kind of make sense of the world around us. And having that understanding that your work matters and the stories that you're telling matter and your ability to do that is a skill set that not very many people have.” - Robert Teegarden “We have a role and a purpose, and it's to be able to shed light on these things, the nuance of what life, society, and culture is. And I don't think that that's a job set for just every person to have. It's a very specific way that you have to view those things. It's a gift, really. It's a privilege to be able to do it.” - Robert "You talk about there being a need in the world and, as creatives, some of us see that need and then respond to that need.” - Ryan Koral “I think a huge Cardinal sin is like you have these beautiful spaces that you create as a small business and then you just don't have the communication, the outbound communication to back that up." - Robert Guest Links Get your copy of the Video Marketing Playbook Find Robert Teegarden online Follow Robert Teegarden on Instagram Links Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Ryan and Rory Clark discuss the importance of customer intimacy in sales and marketing. They emphasize the need to genuinely connect with customers, ask the right questions, and listen actively. Rory shares his expertise in customer development and highlights the three key phases: customer attraction, customer creation, and customer satisfaction. He also explains the power of video in creating a high-touch customer experience. The conversation provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs and creatives looking to improve their sales strategies. Key Takeaways Customer intimacy is a powerful strategy that beats AI and technology-driven approaches. To connect with customers, genuinely listen to them and ask the right questions. The three key phases of customer development are customer attraction, customer creation, and customer satisfaction. Video is a highly effective tool for creating a high-touch customer experience. Focus on customer intimacy and provide a personalized and exceptional customer experience. About Rory J. Clark Rory J. Clark is the creator and innovator of FOCUS SELLING®, a breakthrough performance  system which has helped countless executives around the world to exceed performance  expectations. He inspires excellence in leadership, teamwork, and performance through the renovation of individual mindsets.  For more than four decades, executives in over two hundred organizations, on six continents, and in over thirty countries, have learned from Rory. In addition, they have taught Rory how to turn FOCUS SELLING® into a competitive weapon. Rory's experience includes leadership positions in marketing, sales, recruiting, and training in organizations such as CBS and ABC Radio, Wilson Learning Corporation, and the Dale Carnegie Institute. He is an expert in selling, in instruction, and in curriculum design. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:50] Meet Rory Clark [05:28] Building a StoryBrand [09:28] A Sale From Start to Finish [11:09] Adjusting to Social Styles [11:29] Connecting Intentionally [11:57] Uncovering [35:54] Phases of Customer Development [40:39] Connect with Rory [41:40] Outro Quotes “In 1984, which is 40 years ago – probably when I got my AOL address – there was a book called Megatrends. And the author of the book said… the more high tech we get, the more high touch will be required. Well, now that's on steroids, right?” – Rory Clark “If you're great at customer intimacy, that beats AI hands down because people are sick of interacting with it. They're sick of not getting to talk to a person.” - Rory “Be creative in your craft, but find a system that works for you when it comes to selling and marketing and all those things.” - Ryan Koral Guest Links Find Rory Clark and Focus Selling online Email Rory Clark: roryjclark@aol.com Links Find out more about the Onward Summit  FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week" Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this special 400th episode of the Grow Your Video Business show, host Ryan Koral reflects on the journey since launching the podcast in early 2016. Originally started with co-founder Matt Davis, Ryan shares memorable moments, the evolution of the show, and the importance of community and support in overcoming struggles. He expresses gratitude to listeners, team members, and supporters who have made the show possible. Tune in for a heartfelt look back at eight years of podcasting, personal growth, and the powerful impact of community.  Key Takeaways The journey up to, and what it means to celebrate the 400th episode. Expressions of gratitude to loyal listeners. Reflection on the show's origins and growth. Community highlights and a transformative 2016. Thankful to key contributors and the global audience. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [00:48] Celebrating 400 Episodes [01:25] How It All Started [03:12] The First Episode Ever [10:58] Community [22:21] Thank yous [31:39] Outro Quotes “My heart is just so thankful for you for being with me.” “We both (me and Matt Davis) were speaking at events for filmmakers and we both loved education and we both like a microphone, so we just thought it would be really fun. And we did it. And that's where Studio Sherpas was launched.” “As I reflect on all 400 episodes, all of the ups and downs and, you know, so many highs and so many lows, the thing that still rings true today as what I think is the most important is community.” “It's amazing the opportunities I've gotten just by having a show. The people that have said yes to be on this show… these people wouldn't have a conversation with me if I didn't have a podcast.”  Links Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Kenrick Mills shares his journey from odd jobs to building a successful video production business. He emphasizes the importance of finding a niche and focusing on a specific type of client. Kenrick's favorite type of project is interior design videos, as they allow him to be creative and showcase beautiful spaces. He also discusses the benefits of working with retainer clients and building long-term relationships. In this conversation, Ryan and Kenrick discuss the importance of finding a niche and the power of YouTube for businesses. They emphasize the need to practice what you preach and the value of showing up on social media platforms. Kenrick shares his plans to start a YouTube channel to reach business owners who need creative services. Ryan encourages him to focus on his unique perspective and personality to stand out in the market. They both highlight the abundance of opportunities and the importance of consistency in content creation. Key Takeaways Finding a niche and focusing on a specific type of client can make your job easier and more enjoyable. Building long-term relationships with retainer clients can provide consistent work and a steady income. Interior design videos offer the opportunity to be creative and showcase beautiful spaces. Creating a landing page and marketing content that speaks directly to your target audience can help attract more clients. Crossover opportunities often arise when working within a specific niche, allowing you to expand your client base. Finding a niche within a specific industry opens up more opportunities within that niche. Being consistent and showing up on social media platforms, especially YouTube, can help businesses grow and attract clients. Every individual and business has a unique perspective and personality that sets them apart from competitors. Practicing what you preach and investing in your own brand and content can build trust and credibility with potential clients. Creating content that provides value and speaks to your ideal clients can make it easier for them to connect with you and book your services. About Kenrick Mills Kenrick Mills has been running a boutique content agency in Jupiter, Florida since 2014. He helps small to medium sized businesses grow their brand, sell their projects more efficiently, and help them tell their story. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:54] Meet Kenrick Mills [07:31] Earth Walker Media [18:41] Benefits Of Niching Down [27:15] Niching Through YouTube [48:15] Connect with Kenrick [49:11] Outro Quotes "I just have this type of person that I'm trying to work with more than a specific type of client." - Kenrick Mills “That makes your job so much harder when you don't have a specific persona, a specific niche, or a specific problem that you solve with a particular kind of video. And my challenge to people is like, well, just pick something and you don't have to do that work forever. It's just going to be for a period of time. Like you need to create some momentum and some traction.” - Ryan Koral “I think it's Blair Enns says something about a creative sees 10 doors and wants to open every single one. But niching down is going into that door, that one door, and just finding that there are actually 10 more doors behind that one door.” - Kenrick “If you feel like, ‘I'm just afraid of having a niche because I don't want to get stuck doing the same old thing,' that's not how you're wired. You're not going to do the same old thing. You're going to think of new things. And it's going to challenge you. And you're going to rise to the challenge because you are a creative.” - Ryan Guest Links Find Kenrick Mills online Follow Earthwalker Media on Instagram | Facebook Links Download a copy of Ryan's Networking Guide Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Ryan and Justin Roethlingshoefer discuss the importance of prioritizing health as a business owner or leader. They emphasize that our health is our greatest asset and that we need to take care of ourselves in order to show up as the best version of ourselves in all aspects of life. They highlight the need for personalized health plans and the importance of tracking key metrics such as heart rate variability, sleep quality, VO2 max, and cellular deficiencies. They also discuss the concept of 'Who Not How' and the value of building a team of experts to support our health journey. Key Takeaways Our health is our greatest asset as business owners and leaders. Personalized health plans are essential for optimal well-being. Tracking key metrics such as heart rate variability, sleep quality, VO2 max, and cellular deficiencies can provide valuable insights. Building a team of experts to support our health journey is crucial. The concept of 'Who Not How' applies to health as well, where we need to focus on finding the right people to help us rather than trying to do everything ourselves. About Justin Roethlingshoefer Justin Roethlingshoefer is the co-founder of OWN IT Coaching, a multiple seven-figure coaching company. As a former performance coach in the NCAA and NHL, through OWN IT he has made the same ecosystem that is usually only available to the best athletes in the world now available to you. Utilizing best in class testing, technology, and coaching, he and his team have been able to transform the health and lives of hundreds of thousands of leaders throughout the country while empowering them on their journey and making the complex topic of health simple, actionable, and personal. He is a speaker and the host of The OWN IT Show podcast. Justin is the author of three other bestselling books including The Athletic Performance Blueprint and OWN IT. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:21] Meet Justin Roethlingshoefer [11:39] The Importance of Health [15:58] Framework for Understanding Health [26:06] Heart Rate Variability [27:49] Understanding Sleep Quality [29:32] Measuring VO2 Max [31:09] Cellular Deficiencies [41:36] Connect with Justin [43:42] Outro Quotes “It's looking you back in the mirror every single morning. You've been given God-given abilities, God-given creative frameworks in your brain. You've been given a calling and a gift and there's certain things that only you can do and I think oftentimes we take that for granted.” - Justin Roethlingshoefer “They found success in chaos because they've been the one to create the solution. And so that's what they trust today. And because of that, that's what they continue to lean into. And they fail to come back to creating predictable and sustainable solutions for themselves when it comes to health and making sure that they are well.” - Justin “We fail to recognize and realize that there's a cost to leadership. There's a cost to doing business. There's a cost to owning a company. And there's a cost to going on this mission. And the remedy is not a gym membership. The remedy is not a massage once a month. The remedy is not going on a vacation with your family once a year. The remedy has to be built as intentionally and as consistently as you've built your business.” - Justin Guest Links Find Justin Roethlingshoefer online Get Instant Access (free ebook): “Live Long. Lead Well. The Business Leader's Guide to Optimizing Health for Longevity and Performance” Follow Justin Roethlingshoefer Instagram | Facebook Follow OWN IT on Instagram | Facebook Links Download a copy of Ryan's Networking Guide  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode of the podcast, Ryan and Tim Arnold discuss the importance of embracing healthy tensions in leadership. They explore the tensions between confidence and humility, expectations and grace, and profit and purpose. Tim shares a story from his experience leading a homeless shelter, highlighting the need to navigate these tensions in a healthy way. They emphasize the value of leaning into differences and engaging in healthy conflict to foster growth and understanding. Tim provides resources for further exploration of these concepts. Key Takeaways Leaders need to embrace healthy tensions, such as the balance between confidence and humility, expectations and grace, and profit and purpose. Leaning into tensions allows for growth, understanding, and better decision-making. Navigating tensions requires recognizing that there can be multiple right answers and finding the best approach for the situation. Engaging in healthy conflict and embracing differences can lead to exceptional results and foster resilience in leadership. Naming and managing chronic tensions in organizations can lead to positive change and growth. About Tim Arnold Having launched and sold a successful for-profit business, pioneered a social enterprise, and led a homeless shelter, Tim Arnold understands how hard it is to lead in challenging situations. That's why he's dedicated to helping leaders at every level – from first-time managers to Nobel Peace Prize winners and Fortune 500 CEOs – navigate the path to resilience and success.  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:03] Meet Tim Arnold [11:05] Tensions To Manage [12:06] Confidence & Humility [15:57] Expectations & Grace [35:09] Connect with Tim [36:15] Outro Quotes “One of those tensions I talk about is the tension between confidence and humility. And it's not about the compromise or meeting in the middle. It's how do I do both fully?” - TIm Arnold “Let's not look at this as right and wrong. Let's just pick the best option for us right now. And when we can do that, and I gotta say, this is I think true for the solopreneur that's just trying to kind of stand out from the pack or people leading teams. If you can encourage kind of the culture of your teams and your relationships to lean into tension, to not need to surround yourself with people who see everything the way you see, it's a competitive edge right now.” - Tim  Guest Links Find Tim Arnold online Get access to the free video series “Lead with AND” Follow Tim Arnold on Instagram Connect with Tim Arnold on LinkedIn Links Find out more about Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Ryan welcomes Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, the founding physician and CEO of Restoracists, to discuss the crucial topic of rest and well-being. Dr. Saundra, a board-certified internal medicine physician, speaker, and award-winning author, shares insights from her bestselling book "Sacred Rest." They delve into the seven types of rest necessary for optimizing productivity, increasing overall happiness, and overcoming burnout. Dr. Saundra explains how incorporating small, intentional restorative activities can make a significant difference in one's life. Listeners will learn practical strategies to incorporate rest into their daily routines and understand the importance of balancing work and personal life for long-term success. Key Takeaways Rest is essential for productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. There are seven types of rest: physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, social, sensory, and creative. Small, intentional restorative practices can make a significant difference in combating burnout. Incorporating rest into daily routines is more effective than waiting for big breaks or vacations. About Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is a Board-Certified internal medicine physician, speaker, and award-winning author. She is an international well-being thought-leader featured in numerous media outlets including Prevention, MSNBC, Women's Day, FOX, Fast Company, Psychology Today, INC, CNN Health, and TED.com. She is the author of numerous books including her bestseller Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity, including insight on the seven types of rest needed to optimize your productivity, increase your overall happiness, overcome burnout, and live your best life.  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:58] Meet Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith [07:51] Dr. Saundra's Burnout Story [10:41] Rest Deficit [13:05] The 7 Types of Rest [20:20] Ways to Achieve Mental Rest [27:52] Physical Rest [32:20] Creative Rest [34:23] Connect with Dr. Saundra [35:13] Outro Quotes "I had a fantastic work ethic. I had zero rest ethic." "Rest isn't just about stopping. Sometimes it's a restorative process to pour back into the place of depletion." "It's horrible to have passion for something, but not have the energy to do it." "You don't actually have to physically be in it; you just have to be reminded of it." "Rest is how productive people stay productive, and how innovative people stay highly creative." Guest Links  Discover your personal rest deficits using Saundra's free assessment at RestQuiz.com Find Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith online Follow Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Links FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week" Find out more about Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Ryan interviews Mariana Henninger, the brilliant mind behind Brandmagnetic. Mariana shares her unique journey from being a decorated documentary filmmaker to becoming an entrepreneur focused on creating impactful brand videos. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling and emotional connection in differentiating oneself in the crowded online market. Mariana discusses her approach to business, including the development of her course and membership program that helps entrepreneurs create their own brand videos. She also touches on her strategies for pitching to high-profile clients and the value of leading with personal connection and authenticity. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their brand presence and build a loyal community. Key Takeaways The importance of storytelling and emotional connection in brand videos. Strategies for pitching to high-profile clients by leading with value and authenticity. The role of community and continued support in business growth. Embracing your unique personality as a differentiator in the market. About Marianna Henninger Marianna is a documentary filmmaker & Founder of Brandmagnetic. She is an Emmy award-winning documentary filmmaker specializing in Brand Videos. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:11] Meet Mariana Henninger [11:17] Why Brand Videos? [20:03] The Membership Model [28:20] People Who Pay Pay Attention [43:06] Secret Sauce Of Your Business [47:32] Connect with Mariana [49:44] Outro Quotes "What makes you different is you. You are the secret sauce of your business." - Mariana Henninger "When you pay, you pay attention. The idea of valuing your expertise is crucial." - Mariana Henninger "Lead with good work and results, but then show them who you are." - Mariana Henninger "The best clients are those who go through the workshop process, building a connection with you." - Ryan Koral  "Building a business takes time. It's important to understand that it takes time to build the big stuff." - Mariana Henninger Guest Links  Find Mariana Henninger online Listen to the Empire Secrets Podcast Follow Mariana Henninger on Instagram Follow Brandmagnetic on Instagram Links Find Vanessa Carr online Find out more about Onward Summit   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode, Ryan welcomes Annemie Tonken, a seasoned photographer and educator specializing in business systems and strategies for creative entrepreneurs. Annemie shares her journey from wedding photography to creating a sustainable and predictable income model through her innovative Simple Sales System. The discussion delves into the challenges faced by photographers in maintaining a steady income, the inspiration behind Annemie's subscription-based model, and the importance of business systems in achieving long-term success. Annemie offers valuable insights on building trust with clients, the benefits of niching down, and how to create compelling offers that attract and retain customers. Key Takeaways Creating a membership model can provide predictable income for a photography business. Focusing on a specific service and building trust with clients can lead to a more stable and profitable business. Exclusivity and scarcity can attract clients and increase perceived value. Having a go-to product or service simplifies operations and improves efficiency. Being selective with clients and setting boundaries can lead to a more enjoyable and sustainable business. About Annemie Tonken Annemie has been a professional photographer since 2010 and is now a respected educator focused on business systems and strategies that help creative entrepreneurs run profitable, sustainable businesses they love. She's the host of This Can't Be That Hard, a top-rated weekly business podcast for photographers, the creator of the Simple Sales System, which is used by thousands of photographers worldwide to create in-person sales-level income and service in an automated, and an experienced speaker known for her fluff-free content and memorable metaphors.  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [10:25] Meet Annemie Tonken [12:11] Monthly Recurring Revenue [12:59] Annemie's Business Beginning [18:38] Photography Membership [24:04] Confidence To Charge Fairly [25:00] Client Exclusivity [31:05] Knowing Your Main Deliverable [37:35] Connect with Annemie [38:12] Outro Quotes "One of the biggest challenges in my business over 20 years is having any sense of predictable income."  "I could create essentially a subscription so that my clients could get this done." "There's a new confidence that you haven't really experienced before." Guest Links Find Annemie Tonken online This Can't Be That Hard podcast Follow Annemie Tonken on Instagram | Facebook Links Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

In this episode of the podcast, Ryan delves into the importance of building a strong professional network. He emphasizes how networking can make you feel part of something bigger in both your business and personal life. He shares his journey of leveraging his superpower of networking, recounting how he built connections with local filmmakers and other industry professionals which led to meaningful collaborations and referrals. Ryan provides actionable advice on how to start networking, from engaging on social media to hosting in-person meetups. He also discusses the emotional and practical benefits of having a supportive network. Alongside his narrative, Ryan offers insights into creating impactful relationships and the value of mutual support among peers. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for video business owners and freelancers looking to expand their professional network and foster a sense of community. Key Takeaways Building Meaningful Relationships: Networking should be focused on creating meaningful and lasting relationships rather than just collecting contacts. Professional and Personal Growth: A strong network can significantly contribute to both your professional and personal development. Community and Belonging: Being part of a network gives you a sense of belonging and can positively affect your mental well-being. Uncovering Opportunities: Networking opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations that you might not have discovered otherwise. Super Powers: Everyone has unique strengths, and networking allows you to discover and share these superpowers with others. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:50] Networking [12:53] When You Feel Alone [17:59] Get In A Group [21:21] Be The One Who Gathers [32:14] Starting Online [35:58] Outro Quotes "We are talking about the importance of building your network and how to feel a part of something bigger in your business and in your life." "In life, we all have superpowers.” Links  FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week" Download a copy of Ryan's Networking Guide Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram