Grow Your Video Business with Ryan Koral

Elisa Trentham is a legacy storyteller, founder of Sherwood Media, and adjunct instructor who's learned how to build a video business on her own terms. In this conversation, she shares why elevating client experience matters more than having the fanciest gear, how she's building her own distribution platform through live events, and the importance of defining success based on your values—not someone else's highlight reel. Key Takeaways Client experience is everything – From pre-production prep to the actual set, creating an elevated experience for your clients sets you apart more than your camera specs ever will. Build your own platform – Instead of relying solely on social media algorithms, create your own distribution through live events and community experiences where you control the narrative. Define success on your terms – Stop comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else's highlight reel. Your journey, your values, and your definition of success are what matter. Be a "heck yes" person – If you're going to say yes to something, go all in. But also give yourself permission to pivot when something's not working anymore. About Elisa Trentham Elisa is a Knoxville native, business owner, wife, and mother of three who has spent her career capturing stories that matter. Her journey began in her backyard, making movies with friends using her parents' camcorder. That passion led her to Asbury University where she earned a Media Communication degree and gained experience working broadcast at the Vancouver Winter Olympics and on film sets in Hollywood. After college, Elisa joined University of Tennessee professors as the Media Production Coordinator for an international women's empowerment program funded by the State Department. This role taught her how to tell powerful stories with a simple camera and microphone, and gave her opportunities to travel around the world. But her most meaningful projects are much more personal to her - creating a "legacy films" capturing the stories of people who have impacted her life, her grandmother, her father, and even her midwife. Through this 10-year business and storytelling journey, Elisa developed her storytelling values of honor, truth, and love. Today, Elisa continues to help individuals and organizations share their stories through her production company, bringing the same blend of technical expertise and emotional intelligence to every project, whether it's filmed in a boardroom or a living room. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:09] Meet Elisa Trentham [04:52] Working With College Students [08:25] Legacy Storytelling [10:09] Business And Family Legacy Films [21:07] Understanding Client's Expectations [28:02] Advice For New Filmmakers [36:40] Core Values [38:16] Don't Compare Yourself to Others [44:56] Connect With Elisa [46:26] Outro   Quotes "Don't just be a, yeah, sure, I guess I'll go do that. Be a heck yes person. Like go in there and if you say yes, like give it your all." – Elisa Trentham "I can't let what somebody else is doing and what somebody else is defined as success for them... I gotta live this one right here." – Ryan Koral "It doesn't have to be my forever plan... there's no perfect plan you can make that's going to last for decades and decades." – Elisa Trentham Guest Links Follow Elisa Trentham on LinkedIn | 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

Rob Clark from That Tall Family has generated over 5 billion views on social media, and in this episode, he breaks down exactly what it takes to get attention in 2025. We talk about why most video businesses are posting the wrong way, how to create content that actually converts, and the game-changing mindset shift you need to stop chasing clients and start attracting them. If you've been struggling to grow your audience or wondering if social media even matters for your production business, this conversation will change how you think about content creation. Key Takeaways Attention is the new currency. If you don't have people's attention, you don't have a business. Rob's entire philosophy centers around earning attention first, then converting it into clients and revenue. The 20% rule for creators. Dedicate at least 20% of your work week to building your own brand and creating content for yourself—not just for clients. This investment pays off by letting you charge more, attract better clients, and prove you actually know what you're doing. Stop overthinking your content. The biggest mistake video businesses make is waiting until everything's perfect. Rob creates content daily because he knows consistency beats perfection every single time. Your expertise means nothing without proof. Would you hire a personal trainer who's out of shape? Same goes for social media. If you're telling clients they need video content but you're not creating your own, you're losing credibility (and clients). About Rob Clark Rob Clark is the creator behind That Tall Family, the viral family brand with over 4 billion views and 4 million followers across TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. After years of trial, error, and breakthrough moments, Rob mastered the art of creating content that not only gets attention but also builds community and drives business growth. Today, he's known as a Viral Video Social Media Coach, teaching creators, brands, and business owners how to grow faster by understanding what actually makes videos take off. Rob helps people simplify their content strategy, leverage data, and show up authentically online—without burning out or guessing what works. His story from small-town beginnings to leading a global-reach brand makes him a powerful voice for anyone trying to build something meaningful with a camera, creativity, and consistency. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:11] Meet Rob Clark [12:47] We Overcomplicate Social Media [17:27] You've Got To Ship It [23:53] Defined Expectations With Clients [25:19] Promoting Your Work [38:43] Getting Clients Through Socials [40:02] Create Once, Post Everywhere [46:24] Addressing The Pain Point [48:58] Lead By Example [53:56] Connect with Rob [56:01] Outro Quotes "If you don't have attention, then you have nothing." -Rob Clark "I'm putting just as much time building the Rob Clark brand as I am working for clients. I'm starting to believe that's the biggest difference between going from good to great—that investment in yourself." -Rob Clark "If you put 20% into doing your own brand, you're gonna be able to charge 50% more for clients because you're gonna get more opportunities, you're gonna be able to jack up your prices, and you're gonna create better quality content." -Rob Clark Guest Links Building a full course package that will be live next month at 4BillionViews.com  Checkout That Tall Family Website Follow Rob Clark on LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

Paige Burns is shifting her entire business from brand work to schools and nonprofits—and she's being refreshingly honest about how hard that pivot actually is. In this conversation, we dig into why networking still beats any sales funnel you can build, how hiring your "competitors" actually grows your business faster, and the one random conversation that's made her tens of thousands of dollars. Key Takeaways One networking conversation at a conference led to tens of thousands in referral work across multiple universities—proof that in-person connections still outperform any automated sales funnel Hiring and collaborating with people you see as "competitors" creates a healthier business ecosystem and almost always comes back to benefit you Being an introvert doesn't disqualify you from networking—Paige forced herself to attend one event per week when starting out, and it fundamentally changed her business and confidence When pivoting your business focus (like Paige's shift from brand work to schools/nonprofits), don't expect overnight success—it's a longer play that requires patience and consistent effort About Paige Burns Paige Burns is the award-winning founder and creative director of Main Paige Media, a women-owned video production agency based in Beverly, Massachusetts. With over a decade of production experience from broadcast to mobile, Paige specializes in helping mission-driven organizations tell emotionally resonant, unscripted stories that spark action and build connection. Main Paige Media creates docu-style brand films and strategic video content for purpose-driven small businesses, nonprofits, and schools. Under Paige's leadership, the team is known for its collaborative approach, thoughtful storytelling, and deep commitment to amplifying voices that are making a difference in their communities. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [02:52] Meet Paige Burns [15:36] Goals and Creative Fulfillment [23:31] Receiving Feedback [25:43] A Male Dominate Field [38:45] Collaborating With Others [40:27] Impact of Networking [45:57] Connect with Paige [46:56] Outro Quotes "I didn't know what I didn't know. And I think that was really huge." — Paige Burns "What you give is what you get... I have given away jobs to people I see as my competitors, because I'm like, I don't really want it, or I'm not available here, you take it. And that always comes back." — Paige Burns "One conversation where I was just like, I want to talk to someone else who has this small university video job has made me tens of thousands of dollars." — Paige Burns "The quickest way to build trust to get business is in person at events... don't let that be your 80% focus. Let that be 20%, maybe at most like 40%, and then spend the other 60 to 80% of your time cultivating relationships." — Ryan Koral "I am a completely different person than I was in 2019 when I started my business. Because this has pushed me so far outside of my comfort zone, it has grown my confidence like tenfold." — Paige Burns Paige Burns is shifting her entire business from brand work to schools and nonprofits—and she's being refreshingly honest about how hard that pivot actually is. In this conversation, we dig into why networking still beats any sales funnel you can build, how hiring your "competitors" actually grows your business faster, and the one random conversation that's made her tens of thousands of dollars. Key Takeaways One networking conversation at a conference led to tens of thousands in referral work across multiple universities—proof that in-person connections still outperform any automated sales funnel Hiring and collaborating with people you see as "competitors" creates a healthier business ecosystem and almost always comes back to benefit you Being an introvert doesn't disqualify you from networking—Paige forced herself to attend one event per week when starting out, and it fundamentally changed her business and confidence When pivoting your business focus (like Paige's shift from brand work to schools/nonprofits), don't expect overnight success—it's a longer play that requires patience and consistent effort About Paige Burns Paige Burns is the award-winning founder and creative director of Main Paige Media, a women-owned video production agency based in Beverly, Massachusetts. With over a decade of production experience from broadcast to mobile, Paige specializes in helping mission-driven organizations tell emotionally resonant, unscripted stories that spark action and build connection. Main Paige Media creates docu-style brand films and strategic video content for purpose-driven small businesses, nonprofits, and schools. Under Paige's leadership, the team is known for its collaborative approach, thoughtful storytelling, and deep commitment to amplifying voices that are making a difference in their communities. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [02:52] Meet Paige Burns [15:36] Goals and Creative Fulfillment [23:31] Receiving Feedback [25:43] A Male Dominate Field [38:45] Collaborating With Others [40:27] Impact of Networking [45:57] Connect with Paige [46:56] Outro Quotes "I didn't know what I didn't know. And I think that was really huge." — Paige Burns "What you give is what you get... I have given away jobs to people I see as my competitors, because I'm like, I don't really want it, or I'm not available here, you take it. And that always comes back." — Paige Burns "One conversation where I was just like, I want to talk to someone else who has this small university video job has made me tens of thousands of dollars." — Paige Burns "The quickest way to build trust to get business is in person at events... don't let that be your 80% focus. Let that be 20%, maybe at most like 40%, and then spend the other 60 to 80% of your time cultivating relationships." — Ryan Koral "I am a completely different person than I was in 2019 when I started my business. Because this has pushed me so far outside of my comfort zone, it has grown my confidence like tenfold." — Paige Burns Guest Links Checkout Paige Burn's WebsiteFollow Paige Burns 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter Checkout Paige Burn's WebsiteFollow Paige Burns 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

Molly Mahoney drops serious knowledge about using AI to amplify your creative business instead of fearing it. She walks through how she built an interactive tool that generated 130 sales in three days, ran a Facebook auction that hit $30K in eight minutes, and why helping others succeed is the secret to growing your own business. If you've been wondering how to actually use AI in your video business without feeling like a sellout, this one's for you. Key Takeaways AI should amplify your creativity, not replace it—use these tools to handle the repetitive stuff so you have more time for actual creative work. Interactive tools create "activation offers" that give clients quick wins and naturally lead them to need your higher-level services. Agentic systems can automate your entire client journey by connecting different AI tools and apps together (tools like MindPal and Base44 make this accessible). Authenticity indicators (your mistakes and stumbles) build more trust than perfectly polished content ever will. About Molly Mahoney Molly Mahoney is a digital marketing strategist, keynote speaker, and former NYC performer who helps entrepreneurs blend AI-powered marketing with authentic human connection. With viral videos hitting over 39 million views and features in Forbes and Inc., she's known for turning complex tech into simple, profitable strategies. She launched her business The Prepared Performer in 2013… and has since helped thousands of people to show up more powerfully, turning their message into a revenue generating movement. In 2021, Molly launched the world's first AI-focused content membership (2 years before chatGPT hit the scene). She's the author of Choose Confidence, Finding My Awesome, and the new Ai playbook, Ai-ify™ Your Business. She believes your "weird" is your superpower – and that the more fun you have, the more money you make! In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:12] Meet Molly Mahoney [15:45] Backstory Research With AI [19:04] Figuring Out Your Niche [23:47] Your Weird Is Your Superpower [29:49] The Quesadilla of Awesome [41:14] AI Tools [44:21] Sora Prompt Templates [47:18] Agentic System [49:21] Connect with Molly [51:39] Outro Quotes "Rather than asking yourself, what can I do to help grow my business, take a step back and look at what can I do to help other people to succeed." - Molly Mahoney "When you trip up over your words, don't edit it out, leave it there, it's an authenticity indicator." - Molly Mahoney "The most important thing that you can do is to figure out who you are as a human being and let your freak flag fly." - Molly Mahoney "I could see a lot of video creators being like, oh no, this is gonna hurt my business... But what I decided to do rather than being like, how am I gonna use this to grow my business... I went and created a tool to help other people succeed." - Molly Mahoney "If you create a software tool that helps people to get better results with video, they're only gonna get so far. And then they're gonna get to the point where they're like, I need help." - Molly Mahoney Guest Links Follow Molly Mahoney on Instagram | Facebook  Check out Molly Mahoney's WebsiteGet Molly's free Ideal Client Avatar Generator HERE Links Get Instant Pricing Clarity Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

Ryan sits down with keynote speaker and author Andy Storch to talk about why your personal brand matters way more than your company brand—especially if you're trying to land corporate work. They dive into LinkedIn strategy for video business owners, why being relatable beats being perfect, and how Andy and Mike Kim collaborated on their latest book. Plus, you'll hear Ryan's hilarious story about filming a wedding for a software guy who married a stripper (spoiler: it didn't last). Key Takeaways Personal brand over company brand: People follow people, not companies—especially on LinkedIn. Share your story, your behind-the-scenes, your personality, not just portfolio pieces. Relationships trump perfection: Clients often hire based on how you make them feel and how easy you are to work with, not just because you have the best reel. The corporate shift is more profitable: Moving from weddings to corporate work means better margins, repeat clients, and getting your weekends back. AI makes your humanity more valuable: As technology handles more tasks, your storytelling ability, curiosity, empathy, and personality become your biggest differentiators. About Andy Storch Andy Storch is a keynote speaker, connector, podcaster, and author of two books, including Own Your Career Own Your Life and his latest book, Own Your Brand, Own Your Career with Mike Kim.  Andy works with organizations to teach and inspire professionals to own their brands and careers to achieve more success in the future. He'a also the host of two podcasts, including the Talent Development Hot Seat and Own Your Career show.  Finally, Andy is a husband, father, cancer survivor, and expat, who is on a mission to get the absolute most out of life and inspire others to do the same.  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:20] Meet Andy Storch [08:44] Marketing [13:04] Branding [17:23] Real Connections [19:57] Showing Up On Social Media [26:36] Wedding Versus Corporate Videography [34:39] Storytelling [45:20] Connect with Andy [45:55] Outro Quotes "Nobody cares more about your career or your personal brand than you do." - Andy Storch "I don't follow any companies on LinkedIn. If I see any company posts on LinkedIn, I barely notice and I scroll on by. I follow people." - Andy Storch "The thing I'm going to remember the most, it's how people make you feel." - Ryan Koral "People have brands as well. We all have a personal brand. It's essentially our reputation. It's what people think about us, what people say about us. So we might as well be intentional with that." - Andy Storch "If you're gonna choose one, I would choose the personal brand every time." - Andy Storch Guest Links Connect with Andy Storch on LinkedIn  Follow Andy Storch on Instagram

David Newman drops some serious truth bombs about why traditional sales tactics feel so gross—and what to do instead. He breaks down his "relationship-first" approach to business, explains why being divisive with your values is actually your competitive advantage, and shares how to escape the feast-or-famine cycle that keeps so many video businesses stuck. This isn't about tricks or scripts—it's about becoming the kind of person clients naturally want to work with. Key Takeaways Your values should filter clients in AND out—stop trying to convince everyone and start attracting the right ones The feast-or-famine cycle happens when you're focused on the next sale instead of building genuine relationships Being "divisive" with your beliefs isn't political—it's strategic positioning that saves everyone time Sales doesn't have to feel pushy when you lead with service and let your values do the filtering About David Newman David Newman, CSP. David is a Certified Speaking Professional®, a popular keynote speaker, and the author of the new book, Market Eminence: 22 Strategies to Build a Bold Personal Brand, Become a BusinessCelebrity, and Drive Unstoppable Growth. He works with founders, mid-marketCEOs, and professional services firms who want to play bigger, grow faster, and become a category of one. David's previous books are Do It! Selling, Do It! Speaking, and Do It! Marketing (an international bestseller translated into six languages). David is also the host of the globally ranked top 1% podcast, The Selling Show, with over 500 episodes. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:47] Meet David Newman [11:11] Question Based Selling [18:17] Be Fully Present [23:04] How To Deal With Ghosting [26:15] Market Eminence [32:41] Be More Of Yourself [46:06] Connect with David [48:31] Outro Quotes "Don't worry about being a better salesperson, be a better person." - David Newman "We are not in the convincing and persuading business. We are in the filtering and sorting business." - David Newman "Action eliminates fear. Doing anything is better than doing nothing." - David Newman "Your sales process is not a matter of convincing and persuading—it's automatic filtering and sorting based on your point of view, your beliefs, your values." - David Newman Guest Links Visit David Newman's website to learn more about his work and services. Check out The Selling Show, David Newman's podcast Follow David Newman on social media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X (Twitter). Links Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

In this special end-of-year episode, I'm getting personal and reflective about 2025 - the wins, the struggles, and what I'm cooking up for next year. If you've been following along this year (or if this is your first episode), grab a coffee and join me for an honest look at what it means to build a sustainable creative business while staying true to yourself. What You'll Learn Why I almost walked away from my production business this year (and what changed my mind) The power of collaboration over traditional client work (including my successful revenue-share partnerships) How being intentional about relationships transformed my business and life What's coming in 2026: new book, app launch, and a non-filmmaker mastermind Key Takeaways On Gratitude and Relationships Your personal relationships are your business foundation - the mastermind retreat in Austin was a career highlight The power of connecting people in your network (it brings more fulfillment than any film project) Why surrounding yourself with people who've gone before you is non-negotiable On Business Evolution 2025 was the best year financially since COVID for Tell Studios Some relationships cook for a decade before they turn into six-figure projects Revenue-share partnerships (like the one with Susan generating $2M+ in sales) can be more profitable than traditional client work On Content and Platform Building Nearly 500 episodes over 10 years - consistency compounds The podcast has opened more doors than any marketing campaign ever could Sometimes you need fresh audience to revitalize your offers On Taking Action Took multiple swings this year - plenty missed, but the ones that connected were worth it Pitching creative collaboration ideas (like YouTube creator partnerships) creates new revenue streams Perfectionism will kill your momentum - share the journey, not just the destination What's Coming in 2026 A Book (Finally!) About the power of your story as a business owner and how to use it as your differentiator. Plus a kids book with an artist! New Collaboration Partnerships Following the success of revenue-share models, exploring 2-3 new strategic partnerships An App Launch Built in collaboration with former mastermind member Andrew - designed to benefit video business owners Non-Filmmaker Mastermind Expanding beyond the filmmaker space to work with entrepreneurs across industries Updated Budget Maximizer Brand new spreadsheet, templates, and training to ensure project profitability In This Episode   [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:38] Before the GYVB Podcast [11:44] When The Podcast Started [17:45] Big Milestones In Life [21:03] Financial Highlight Since Covid [23:04] 2026 Hopes and Goals [26:59] Collaboration [30:35] Mastermind [36:27] Newsletter [39:05] Outro Quotes "I've made a lot more mistakes than I have had successes, but I'm still here learning and growing." - Ryan Koral "People pay me money to facilitate relationships and conversations. It's mind-blowing." - Ryan Koral "Your word matters. Being a person of integrity means sometimes not announcing things until you're sure - but also learning it's okay to dream out loud." - Ryan Koral 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

Justin Kavanaugh (Coach Kav), CEO of Sites at Scale, breaks down why showing your creative process isn't just good content—it's a client attraction strategy that gets you paid more. We talk about beating perfectionism paralysis, the psychology behind why clients value transparency, and his AAA framework (Attention, Attraction, Accessibility) for growing your video business. If you've been holding back on launching something because it's not perfect, this conversation's your wake-up call to ship it now and iterate later. Key Takeaways Transparency builds trust and value - When clients see your creative process and understand the thought behind each decision, they appreciate your work more and are willing to pay premium rates because you're managing expectations throughout the journey Done beats perfect every time - The only way to learn what actually works is to ship your content, test it with real audiences, and iterate based on feedback rather than staying stuck in planning mode The AAA Framework for growth - Attention (getting traffic), Attraction (converting the right clients), and Accessibility (delivering exceptional customer experience) are the three pillars that solve most business problems Behind-the-scenes content is strategic - Showing work-in-progress builds connection with your audience, demonstrates your expertise, and creates viral potential because people want to be part of your journey About Justin Kavanaugh Justin Kavanaugh, known as Coach Kav, is a six-time Olympic coach, performance strategist, and CEO of Sites at Scale. With two decades coaching elite athletes and advising business leaders, he helps people win the right way with integrity, clarity, and mastery. His frameworks (WIN the Right Way, Every Day is Game Day, Live Your Telos) fuse Olympic principles with business success, empowering leaders to scale, perform, and build lasting legacies. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:01] Meet Justin Kavanaugh [10:52] Good Communication [14:30] Getting Ideal Clients [19:37] Be Where Your Feet Are [22:28] All In [23:23] Showing Up Prepared [32:57] Putting In The Practice [42:05] Anxiety and Adrenaline [48:51] Connect with Justin [52:11] Outro Quotes "All relationships are won or lost at the expectation level." - Justin Kavanaugh "You're not going to learn through thinking. You're going to learn through action." - Justin Kavanaugh "It's only a failure if you quit. So you want to fail fast, fail forward and then don't quit, because if you quit, that's when it actually is a failure." - Justin Kavanaugh "Work in progress becomes work and profit for businesses if you showcase it." - Justin Kavanaugh "If you just wait for that TED Talk and you get ready for your keynote speech, what's going to happen is you're never going to get that opportunity, because they don't think that you're the person that could come on stage and own the stage." - Justin Kavanaugh Guest Links Follow Coach Kav on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

Chad Godfrey has been running Summit Video Services for over 20 years, and he's built something most video pros overlook: a thriving business where 60% of revenue comes from video transfers and archival work. In this conversation, we dig into why his transfer business keeps growing year after year, how local networking and in-person relationships are still the best marketing strategy, and why teaching free workshops can actually land you more clients instead of giving away the farm. Key Takeaways Video transfer and archival services can be a massive, consistent revenue stream—Chad's business grows every year despite assumptions that the market would dry up Building real relationships through chambers, boards, and local networking events is still the most effective way to generate buzz and trust in your community Teaching free workshops positions you as a leader and keeps you top of mind when people need professional help—it's counterintuitive but it works Having strategic relationships with complementary businesses (graphic designers, photographers, etc.) creates a powerful referral network About Chad Godfrey As a young child, Chad Godfrey was constantly infatuated with film and video cameras, audio recorders, and early personal computers. In 2004, Chad linked these interests together and started a business. For the past 21 years, Chad has been the owner of Summit Video Services, an audio and video production and photography services company based in Lee's Summit, Missouri. Chad is an Emmy-nominated and nationally-awarded video producer with recognitions in the areas of video production, editing, photography, design, documentary, motion graphics, and sound design. Chad's professional work in video production includes documentary and brand films for businesses and the non-profit sector. He is a creative storyteller with a unique ability to structure a narrative, whether for a short film, commercial, music video, or YouTube vlog. Chad has an exceptional capability to pace a story, build tension, and create emotional engagement; all critical skills to the clients he serves. Chad's photography is primarily commercial, providing services for architectural firms, municipalities, and the commercial real estate industry. Though less for profit, Chad's true passion is landscape and astro-photography. He's had many opportunities to travel internationally with a backpack full of gear (sometimes too full) to "chase the light." Chad is a contributing member of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Chad's spouse of 24 years, Suzie, is an elementary teacher in the Lee's Summit School District. Together, they have three kids, ages 22, 19, and 15. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:42] Meet Chad Godfrey [16:17] Advertising Strategies [17:07] Documentary Video Production [24:57] Things That Sustain a Business [26:42] Aha Moments From The Mastermind [37:09] Advice to New Business Owners [40:15] Finance Resources [46:28] Being Involved In Local Groups [47:41] Connect with Chad [52:41] Outro Quotes "There's no substitute for just talking to people and inviting them to and going to events and shaking hands. If you're not generating some buzz about what you do in your local area, then you're just not doing enough." - Chad Godfrey "That seems counterintuitive—you're giving away the farm. But when people can actually see you as a leader in that realm and that you're giving away some of your knowledge, they're gonna wanna come back to you and pick your brain some more." - Chad Godfrey "The quickest and easiest way to build trust with somebody is in person so they can really see what you're like. People will hire people that they know, like, and trust." - Ryan Koral Guest Links Follow Summit Video Services on Instagram Visit Summit Video Services Website 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter

Brad Ellison went from selling insurance to building Michigan's highest-rated painting company in just a few years, and he's got some seriously practical wisdom about profit, personality, and perfectionism. In this conversation, we dig into why finishing jobs to 75% can actually be the smartest move for your business, how your core values should drive everything from your marketing to your hiring, and why contractors are the perfect clients for video producers right now. About Brad Ellison Brad grew up in Royal Oak, Michigan and graduated from Oakland University. During school, his goal was always to run his own small business and he got his start at age 19 when he started a local window washing company to pay for tuition. Brad and Rachel operate Ellison Painting together and now live in Oakland Twp with their 5-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son. They enjoy exercising, time outdoors, and being involved in the local community and church. Key Takeaways Stop over-delivering: That last 25% of polish you're adding? Your clients often can't even tell the difference, but it's costing you real profit. Focus on meeting expectations, not exceeding them to the point of vanity. Your core values aren't just wall art: Brad's company lists "levity" as a core value, which is why their funny ads work. Every piece of marketing you create should reflect at least one of your actual values. There's a huge opportunity with contractors: Painting, roofing, and other trade companies desperately need help with video content but don't know where to start. If you can crack this market, there's serious money to be made. Build around what you actually care about: Brad's business exists to support his faith, family, fitness, and friendships—not the other way around. Define what matters to you first, then build your business to serve those priorities. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:02] Meet Brad Ellison [11:17] Success In Business [21:54] Having Enough Leads [22:50] Having Multiple Marketing Methods [27:25] Word of Mouth Marketing [33:10] Passion Work and Business Growth [46:09] Connect with Brad [47:53] Outro Quotes "We have more five star reviews than any other painting company in Michigan and just like my jumper—it's not even close." - Brad Ellison "For me, my passion lies with my faith, my family, my fitness and my friends. And I have a painting business to feed those four." - Brad Ellison "You want to do a great job for your customers, but you also need to understand what their expectations are... that last 25% is purely for vanity and at the cost of his profit." - Brad Ellison "Identify your core values and any ad that you put out should highlight at least one. Ideally two or more of those core values." - Brad Ellison Guest Links Ellison Painting Website Follow Brad Ellison 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 Join the Studio Sherpas newsletter Check out the full show notes

Maeve Ferguson breaks down why quiz funnels are dominating lead generation right now and how you can build one that actually qualifies your prospects instead of just filling up your inbox. She shares her journey from accountant to funnel strategist to AI obsessed entrepreneur, plus we get into the wild world of agentic AI—including the agent she built that finds speaking opportunities and matches them to her calendar automatically. Key Takeaways Quiz funnels outperform traditional lead magnets because they tap into people's curiosity and desire to learn about themselves Your intellectual property (IP) and strategic frameworks are what'll make you AI-proof—the execution will get automated Agentic AI can handle repetitive tasks like finding leads, posting content, and even analyzing ad performance The best quizzes aren't about convincing people they need your service—they're about helping qualified prospects realize they're ready for it About Maeve Ferguson Maeve Ferguson Is A Business Strategist And The Creator Of The Client Engine™, a proven system that helps authors, consultants, and entrepreneurs transform their intellectual property into evergreen lead-generation machines. Specialising in diagnostic assessments and quiz funnels, Maeve helps experts attract, qualify, and convert high-ticket clients at scale. With a background in private equity and a track record of working with 7- and 8-figure thought leaders, Maeve brings a unique blend of corporate strategy and entrepreneurial speed to the table. Her clients range from bestselling authors to global speakers who want to scale without shouting into the void or wasting time on unqualified leads. Maeve has been featured in Forbes, appeared on Jen Kem's Stage, and leads a multi-6-figure business while raising two young kids on a horse farm in Ireland. Through a mix of systems, data, and diagnostic-driven strategy, she helps creatives turn their ideas into income and their frameworks into globally recognised assets. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:41] Meet Maeve Ferguson [07:36] Intellectual Property [14:01] Diagnostic Architecture [28:11] Rich Niche [32:24] Marketing Strategies [37:59] Agentic AI [50:02] Connect with Maeve [51:37] Outro Quotes "Listen to your market and give them what they want." - Maeve Ferguson "Where the world is going, those services of doing the doing will be replaced by AI. What won't be replaced is the tail framework." -Maeve Ferguson "The things I'm building now didn't exist six months ago. Never mind where we're going to be next year, five years time. It's going to be a different planet." -Maeve Ferguson "We're not trying to convince people that they should want video, because that's like pushing water up a hill." -Maeve Ferguson Guest Links  Get your IP Assessment (in 8 minutes) Follow Maeve Ferguson on Instagram Connect with Maeve Ferguson on LinkedIn Watch the Expert to Thought Leader Show on YouTube Listen to the Expert of Thought Leadership podcast 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

Pat Flynn, CEO of Flynn Industries and New York Times bestselling author, shares his "lean learning" philosophy for combating information overload. After watching his kids get overwhelmed by endless learning options, Pat developed frameworks for just-in-time learning and micro mastery that helped him overcome stage fright and build multiple successful businesses, including a Pokemon YouTube channel with nearly 2 million subscribers. Key Takeaways We're "obese with information"—transition from just-in-case learning to just-in-time learning focused on your immediate next step Micro mastery: Pick one tiny component of a skill and hyper-focus on it for a specific period rather than trying to improve everything at once Scale your service business by productizing offerings, adding upsells, or creating templated packages that require less customization Community is crucial—surround yourself with peers who lift you up, mentors who guide you, and people you can teach and serve About Pat Flynn Pat Flynn is a father, husband, and lifelong learner from San Diego who has built a reputation as one of the most influential voices in digital entrepreneurship.  Through his diverse portfolio of businesses, award-winning podcasts, newsletters, YouTube channels, and thriving online communities, Pat reaches and inspires millions of people each month.  He is the founder of SPI, an online community for digital entrepreneurs, co-inventor of the SwitchPod, and host of the Deep Pocket Monster YouTube channel as well as founder of Card Party, a large-scale live event for the community of Pokémon collectors.  Pat also serves as an advisor to dozens of companies and is a sought-after keynote speaker.  In his free time, he enjoys fishing, collecting Pokémon cards, and rewatching the Back to the Future trilogy. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [07:53] Meet Pat Flynn [13:53] Work Life Balance [21:53] Nailing Down Systems and Automation [26:05] Lean Learning Book [32:43] Micro-Mastery [39:22] Having Community [49:30] Methods for Scaling [53:53] Connect with Pat[ [54:26] Outro Quotes "We are obese with information right now. Find the right thing for the next step that you're doing." - Pat Flynn "You cannot read the label when you are inside the bottle." - Pat Flynn "Information at one point used to be valuable. If you were the smartest kid in the class, you were going to be the most successful. No longer." - Pat Flynn "There's a reason why it's called shower thoughts. When you're in your shower, you have your best thoughts because it's literally the only place in the world now that you have nothing else to do but just think." - Pat Flynn "Count uploads, not likes. Control the thing that you can control, which is you showing up and hitting record and hitting publish." - Pat Flynn Guest Links Find Pat Flynn online at Smart Passive Income & Deep Pocket Monster Follow Pat Flynn on Instagram | TikTok | Twitter Follow Deep Pocket Monster on Instagram | TikTok | Twitter Listen on YouTube Pat Flynn | Deep Pocket Monster | Short Pocket Monster 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

Dave Hunter started GreenRoom Video after a career in theater, building it from side hustle to a $1.2 million company. Recently discovering he's an integrator (not a visionary) through reading Traction, Dave shares how he's learned to delegate, scale, and break through belief barriers that were limiting his growth. His team now handles projects from start to finish while he focuses on business development and strategy. Key Takeaways The 80% rule: If someone can do what you're doing at 80% of your ability, they should be doing it to enable growth Belief barriers like "no one can do this as good as me" often limit business growth more than actual constraints Start with contractors before full-time hires to test your management skills and their abilities Learning whether you're a visionary or integrator fundamentally changes how you should approach running your business About Dave Hunter Dave Hunter is the Founder and Creative Director of GreenRoom Video, a Chicago-area production company that has produced over 1,000 videos for Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, schools, and nonprofits. With a background in theater and more than a decade of experience in performance and production, Dave brings a creative storyteller's eye to every project. Under his leadership, GreenRoom Video surpassed $1 million in annual sales and continues to grow with a focus on helping organizations communicate their messages with clarity, creativity, and impact. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:27] Meet David Hunter [11:08] Having an Executive Assistant [15:41] 20 Dollar An Hour Projects [27:02] Belief Barriers [29:56] When To Be On Set [40:42] EOS Method [48:51] Connect with David [50:29] Outro Quotes "If somebody can do what you're doing at 80% of what you can do, they should be doing it." - Dave Hunter "There's several belief barriers we have where we don't think that's possible, but it is, and the only difference is choosing to try it." - Dave Hunter "Your prices are too low if everyone's saying yes to your proposals." - Dave Hunter's business coach "Act your wage as a company—profit doesn't mean your salary, profit means after your salary, there's still profit." - Dave Hunter Guest Links Find Dave Hunter online at GreenRoom Video Follow Dave Hunter on Instagram | Facebook 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

John Bunn recently launched his solo podcast "Shifting Focus" after years of co-hosting How to Film Weddings. Starting with over $400K in student debt, he's built a wedding business that now books $30K+ weddings and has his entire year's expenses covered by the first month. John shares the psychology behind premium pricing, why cash flow equals creative freedom, and how getting specific about your ideal client changes everything about your business. Key Takeaways When you don't need the money, you come across completely different in sales calls—clients can sense desperation vs. abundance Getting laser-focused on your ideal client (not just any client with money) is what allows you to charge premium rates Cash is oxygen for your business—sometimes picking up part-time work is the smartest move to take pressure off while you build Consistency in the right activities (not just any activities) is what creates long-term success in creative businesses About John Bunn John Bunn is a wedding industry educator and mentor who has dedicated his career to elevating professionals through practical, results-driven education. After starting his own wedding video business in 2007, Bunn went on to film and photograph over 550 weddings, gaining deep insights into what truly drives success in the industry. Since transitioning to education in 2018, Bunn has mentored and worked with tens of thousands of wedding professionals, focusing on what he calls "the things that nobody wants to talk about" — the fundamental business practices that create lasting success beyond fleeting trends. Bunn's approach is rooted in real-world experience and a belief that sustainable success comes from shifting focus to what actually matters. His passion for teaching stems from the countless success stories he's witnessed, from working mothers who've transitioned to full-time wedding businesses to professionals finally booking their dream clients. Known for his straightforward, no-nonsense approach, Bunn emphasizes that "trends come, and trends go, but those who shift their focus and put in the work are the true success stories." His mission is to help wedding professionals cut through industry noise and concentrate on the strategies that will genuinely impact their businesses and families. As both mentor and coach, Bunn brings over 15 years of hands-on wedding industry experience combined with a track record of transforming careers through focused, practical education. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:09] Meet John Bunn [09:08] Shifting Focus [20:32] Healthy Mindset with Money [28:10] Importance of Being Profitable [40:56] When Cash Is Tight [56:24] Connect with John [59:20] Outro Quotes "You come across completely different in your sales calls when you don't need the money." - John Bunn "Cash is oxygen in your business. It's hard to make good decisions when you don't have oxygen." - John Bunn "If you're not being intentional about where you want to go, you're going to be running someone else's race." - John Bunn "There's nothing wrong with saying, I need to go pick up a part-time job. Stop by on your way to where you're heading." - John Bunn "What does your business look like if you didn't need to make the sale today? That's the secret to selling." - John Bunn Guest Links Find John Bunn online Follow John Bunn on Instagram Follow John Bunn Films on Instagram Listen to the Shifting Focus podcast 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

Clinton Haby has spent 16 years building a legacy filmmaking business that charges $8K-$24K per project. Starting with a desire to capture his grandfather's stories, he's developed a systematic approach to intimate storytelling that can't be replicated by technology. In this emotional episode recorded shortly after his grandfather's passing, Clinton shares his three-tier pricing model and announces Legacy Film School to teach others the art of premium storytelling. Key Takeaways Clinton's three packages range from $8K (captured as-told) to $24K (full cinematic treatment with B-roll and music) He insists on being alone with storytellers during interviews to create the most authentic connection His entry-level package generates roughly $250/hour, proving that specialized storytelling can command premium rates Legacy filmmaking is recession-proof and AI-resistant because it's built on authentic human connection About Clinton Haby Clinton Haby is a legacy filmmaking pioneer and the founder of StoryKeeping. What began as an urge to keep his grandparents' stories has taken him on a journey of non-stop learning. Listening to clients' wants and striving to deliver beyond their expectations has pushed StoryKeeping to standards far beyond what Clinton initially envisioned.  Having served on the board and executive committee of the Association of Personal Historians, Clinton has had a front row seat to the legacy film industry from its infancy to today. Tested by the market and time, Clinton wants to help others capture the legacies of our personal heroes by launching Legacy Film School. In This Episode [00:00:00] Welcome to the show! [00:04:37] Meet Clinton Haby [00:07:57] Legacy Films [00:11:38] StoryKeeping [00:16:35] New Interest for Legacy Films [00:30:45] Using Your Gifting [00:34:16] Pricing for Legacy Films [00:39:57] Having a Distraction Free Space [00:44:48] Budgeting Time [00:57:37] Legacy Film School [01:01:04] Connect with Clinton [01:03:41] Outro Quotes "There's nothing like the first person perspective. It needs to come from pop, my grandpa, for it to resonate and for it to retain that magic." - Clinton Haby "People tell stories differently depending upon who's in the room." - Clinton Haby Guest Links Find Clinton Haby online Learn more about Legacy Film School Follow Clinton Haby on Instagram | Facebook  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

Lauren Cobello built a million-dollar PR agency in just 10 months as a single mom of four, working with celebrities like Kurt Angle and major influencers. She breaks down why personal branding isn't optional anymore, how to do a simple audit of your online presence, and why your story is the key to charging premium prices in a crowded market. Key Takeaways Your personal brand is simply what shows up when people Google you—make sure it's consistent across all platforms  Your story is your biggest differentiator and allows you to charge premium prices instead of competing on cost Identify what drains your energy versus what lights you up, then set goals to hire out the energy drains  You need to show up in AI search results now, not just traditional Google searches About Lauren Cobello Lauren Cobello is a Book Coach and Founder and CEO of Leverage with Media PR. As a renowned national TV personality, 4x author, and a prominent figure in the world of entrepreneurship and public relations. She has an impressive track record of success and a charismatic on-screen presence and has captivated audiences on national TV on shows like the TODAY show, GMA, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, and hundreds of others for over a decade. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show![04:18] Meet Lauren Cobello|[06:02] Lauren's Story[20:26] Personal Branding[22:32] AI Search Results[24:52] Importance of Writing a Bio[35:00] Dig Into Your Story More[37:07] Your Zone of Genius[45:51] Connect With Lauren[50:04] Outro Quotes "Failure is my fuel and I'm one of the strongest, most resilient people that I know." - Lauren Cobello "I've got one life to live, and I'm going to be damned if it's a miserable one." - Lauren Cobello "What is the brand? What comes up when people Google you? Plain and simple." - Lauren Cobello "Your story matters. If I didn't have my personal brand set up so well on the back end, I would have just blended in with the rest of the agencies." - Lauren Cobello "You are sitting on gold. Your story is different from everybody else's story." - Lauren Cobello Guest Links Find Lauren Cobello online at Leverage With Media  Follow Lauren Cobello on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube Links 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

Ashley Brock has managed over $200 million in ad spend and scaled her advertising agency from $250K to $6 million in just two years. In this episode, she shares why Google Ads should be your starting point (not Meta), reveals her "search and social" retargeting strategy, and explains how balancing humility with credibility transformed her business. Key Takeaways Start with Google Ads instead of Meta—people searching have higher intent to buy than social media scrollers Use the "search and social" strategy: capture high-intent leads on Google, then retarget them with video content on Meta Balance humility with credibility by sharing your wins upfront—people need to know why they should listen to you Get specific with your messaging and "stack the pain" to make prospects feel like you're speaking directly to them About Ashley Brock Ashley Brock is the Founder & CEO of the Paid Ads Academy and the go-to expert for paid ads coaching. With over a decade of experience and more than $200 million in ad spend managed, she has worked with Fortune 500 brands, partnered with Google, Meta, and TikTok, and helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow their businesses using her proven ad strategies that convert. Her methods have supported clients spending anywhere from $10/day to $100,000+ per day, and she has personally scaled her own business to 7 figures (soon to be 8). Ashley is the #1 Amazon bestselling author of How to Win with Paid Ads™, host of the Win with Paid Ads Podcast, and has been featured on ABC News. When she's not teaching business owners how to become findable™ online, Ashley is a wife, a mom of two young boys, and an entrepreneur passionate about helping others master a skill that can transform their business for years to come. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:30] Meet Ashley Brock [05:46] Paid Advertising [13:54] The Power of Google Ads [20:04] Setting Up Ads Properly [21:36] Having a Re-Targeting Structure [26:46] Establish Your Credibility [31:31] Being In a Mastermind Group [37:00] Connect with Ashley [39:03] Outro Quotes "The performance of your ads will fall to the level of the skill of the person managing them." - Ashley Brock "Specificity creates the necessity." - Ashley Brock "You were so humble that you were actually not able to help them because they weren't listening, because they didn't care and they didn't believe you." - Ashley Brock "You are doing a disservice by not saying, here's why I can help you. Too many people are burying the lead." - Ashley Brock "What got you here won't get you there." - Ryan Koral Guest Links  Find Ashley Brock online Follow Ashley Brock on Instagram | YouTube Listen to the Win With Paid Ads podcast Ashley Brock's book: "How To Win With Paid Ads"  Join the "Win With Paid Ads Challenge" Links 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

CPA and financial planner Deb Meyer breaks down why most video business owners struggle financially and stay stuck on what she calls "the hamster wheel." She explains the crucial difference between revenue and profit, why separate bank accounts can save your business, and how to avoid nasty tax surprises that can cripple your cash flow. Key Takeaways Set up separate bank accounts for taxes, contractor expenses, and operating costs to avoid accidentally spending money that's already allocated Focus on profit margins (aim for at least 30%) rather than just top-line revenue numbers Get proactive tax planning to avoid surprise bills—a good CPA should give you quarterly projections, not April surprises Before buying any equipment or hiring staff, ask yourself if it will actually make you money or save you time that translates to revenue About Deb Meyer Deb Meyer, CFP®, CPA, and CEPA, is the award-winning author of Redefining Family Wealth, host of the Beyond Budgets® podcast, and founder of WorthyNest®, a fee-only, fiduciary wealth management firm that guides parents through important financial decisions using a values-based approach. Deb has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and CNN Business and is a contributor to Kiplinger.  She is a 2019 CPA Practice Advisor "40 Under 40 Honoree" in Accounting and received the 2018 AICPA Standing Ovation Award.  Deb lives in Missouri with her husband Bryan and three sons. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:51] Meet Deb Meyer [06:34] Have a Trusted Financial Advisor [07:29] Cash Cushion for Your Business [10:12] Discerning Needs From Wants [22:18] Revenue and Profit [32:01] Tax Planning [45:07] Connect with Deb [46:29] Outro Quotes "You just bought yourself another job, really. I mean, you're not truly an entrepreneur if you're always beholden to the, hey, this is the mass I can get as my salary." - Deb Meyer "Revenue, great. It's a fun vanity metric, but it doesn't really matter that much in the grand scheme of things." - Deb Meyer "I look back and I'm like, what the heck was I thinking? Because it just felt like that's how I was making decisions like, man, yeah, if we had somebody doing that, that would feel pretty good." - Ryan "When COVID happened, we shrunk to four people. And we figured out how to run this company, the same company with four people... we're like so much more profitable these days." - Ryan "They should never have just surprised you with a $28,000 federal tax bill. That is really unfortunate." - Deb Meyer Guest Links Find Deb Meyer online Connect with Deb Meyer on LinkedIn Get Deb's free Starter Guide on 10 family finance myths Follow WorthyNest on Facebook Subscribe to WorthyNest on YouTube  Listen to the Beyond Budgets podcast Links 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

PJ Accetturo went from traditional filmmaker to running a seven-figure AI video agency, creating viral content that's been viewed millions of times. He breaks down exactly how filmmakers can adapt to AI tools without losing their creative edge. This episode covers the specific workflow, tools, and mindset shifts needed to capitalize on what PJ calls "the biggest gold rush of all time." Key Takeaways AI tools like VO3 and ChatGPT can be learned in days, but filmmakers have a huge advantage because they already understand story, pacing, and what makes content compelling The opportunity is massive right now—PJ says it's "very easy to build a seven-figure agency" because brands need AI content but most agencies haven't adapted yet You don't need to abandon traditional filmmaking; many successful approaches involve pairing experienced directors with AI specialists to create hybrid workflows The key to viral AI content is being funny, self-aware about using AI, and creating content that surprises and delights audiences rather than boring them About PJ Accetturo PJ is a seasoned innovator in the TV and advertising space, having served as CEO for multiple media companies and bringing over 15 years of industry experience. He first gained recognition at 18 when National Geographic showcased his work, setting the stage for a career creating content for global powerhouses like Toyota, Red Bull, The Atlanta Braves, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As a commercial director, he spent over a decade working with some of the world's biggest brands. In 2019, PJ demonstrated his knack for audience engagement by growing a YouTube channel from zero to one million subscribers in six months. He then turned his sights to long-form storytelling, raising millions to produce his original animated series, Ghosts of Ruin, where he served as writer and Executive Producer. That project saw him collaborating daily with an Oscar-nominated director, a two-time Emmy-winning showrunner, Hans Zimmer's music team, and an A-list voice cast featuring Rosario Dawson, Justin Long, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Tony Revolori. Motivated to shorten production timelines and reduce costs, PJ is spearheading new processes with generative AI. With a commitment to ethical data training, he is now working to create world-class media with AI-powered workflows. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:31] Meet PJ Ace [06:04] Adapting to Change with AI [10:27] Ad Creation with Veo 3 [17:50] The Future of Generated Video [24:56] How to Start AI Content [29:46] Tools for Creating AI Videos [42:37] Connect with PJ [43:52] Outro Quotes "If this is a tsunami heading towards Hollywood and advertising, I'm trying to hand out surfboards." - PJ Accetturo "It's very easy to build a seven-figure agency right now. Very easy, very quickly." - PJ Accetturo "Winners only... to anyone who's not wanting to adapt quickly, like displacement's coming." - PJ Accetturo "Your greatest skill is that we know how to get exposure on a camera and frame a good shot, like that's going to be tough to build a business off of. But if you can know more strategy and understand story structure... that's our unique advantage." – Ryan Koral "Everyone in the AI industry that has attention right now, most of them are not traditionally filmmakers... but the opportunity here, if everyone doesn't know is like whether you yourself are a traditional filmmaker for 10, 15 years, you can learn the tools in a few days, two weeks max." - PJ Accetturo Guest Links Find PJ Accetturo online Follow PJ Accetturo on Instagram | X Check out PJ's newsletter - AI Filmmaking Links  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

Karen Anderson, strategic book coach and associate publisher, explains why video producers have a unique advantage when it comes to writing business books. She breaks down how books can serve as powerful lead generation tools and authority builders, sharing insights from her experience helping authors reach global audiences. Karen reveals the counterintuitive approach of interviewing others for your book content and explains why vulnerability trumps success stories when connecting with readers. Key Takeaways Books create authority and positioning that can lead to speaking opportunities, higher-value clients, and expanded business reach You don't need to write everything yourself - interviewing others for their expertise and stories can create more compelling content The best business books balance information with inspiration, using stories to help readers feel connected and motivated to take action Start with the end in mind - know what you want your book to accomplish for your business before you begin writing About Karen Anderson Karen Anderson is a Strategic Book Coach and Associate Publisher with Morgan James Publishing. She is a ghostwriter, editor, publisher, and co-author of the Wall Street Journal and USA Today best-selling book, The Bezos Letters: 14 Principles to Grow Your Business Like Amazon. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [07:29] Meet Karen Anderson [08:58] Knowing Your Why [15:05] Information and Inspiration [18:25] Using Books as Lead Generation [28:35] The Importance of Principles [36:36] Knowing the Result You Want [46:52] Steps to Publishing Your Book [52:31] Connect with Karen [55:16] Outro Quotes "You don't write books to groups, you don't write books to institutions, you write books to one person." - Karen Anderson "People relate a whole lot more to vulnerability than they do to success." - Karen Anderson "The reality is, the best books in the world were somebody's first book and they probably had the same feelings." - Karen Anderson "You're coming in as Yoda. You're coming in as going, I've lived through this, I've learned this, I'm imparting wisdom." - Karen Anderson "It's so easy to talk about the things that I've messed up in this business... that's wisdom." - Ryan Guest Links  Find Karen Anderson online Email Karen for the "Get the Book Done" template: admin@karenanderson.co Follow Karen Anderson on Instagram Links 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