Grow Your Video Business with Ryan Koral

Ben Albert, founder of Balbert Marketing and host of Real Business Connections podcast, shares his belief that there's no single key to success - instead, every business has its own unique combination lock. He reveals his nearly 100% effective strategy for getting video testimonials by asking during emotional high moments, and explains how childhood experiences between ages 8-13 often shape the core values that drive our businesses. Ben also shares practical exercises for identifying what makes you "better versus bitter" and how to shift your time and energy accordingly. Key Takeaways Success is a unique combination, not a universal key - Every business has different skills, clients, locations, and team members, requiring their own specific combination of strategies and approaches Ask for testimonials during emotional highs - The best time to request video testimonials is when clients are already feeling positive and engaged, not during random outreach Use the Better vs. Bitter exercise - Draw a line on paper and list what makes you better versus what makes you bitter, then systematically shift time from the bitter column to the better column Your origin story shapes your business values - The experiences and relationships from ages 8-13 often determine the core values and mission that drive your entrepreneurial journey About Ben Albert When Covid hit, Ben was furloughed and feeling lost. He hesitantly opened his MacBook, began reaching out to strangers on LinkedIn, and that one step launched his entrepreneurial journey. Today, Ben hosts the internationally recognized podcast Real Business Connections, runs the thriving firm Balbert Marketing, and in just over a year, replaced his previous income—all while keeping it real and authentic. Ben has collaborated with industry giants like Chris Do, James Altucher, and Jordan Harbinger. Through demand from his network, Real Business Connections has expanded to offer podcast production and growth services for top thought leaders. Once an underdog himself, Ben founded GrowGetters ONLY Collective, a community for growth-minded leaders to access mentorship, accountability, and meaningful connections. He’s on a mission to impact one million lives, one conversation at a time. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:08] Meet Ben Albert [07:27] Growgetters Only [09:44] Success Is A Combination Lock [18:30] Better And Bitter [20:22] Delegation [25:29] Video Testimonials Timing [39:30] Connect with Ben [40:12] Outro  Quotes "There is no key to success. There is no one magic pill to solve everyone's problems. There is no key to success, resilience, success in your video business. It's a combination lock." - Ben Albert "When's the best time to ask for a review or a video testimonial? It's during that emotional high." - Ben Albert "I felt disconnected. So I didn't realize this. I was developing a deep, almost necessity for connection." - Ben Albert "All you got to do is take something from the bitter column, do a little bit less of that, and then take the same amount of time in the better column and allocate that time to the better column." - Ben Albert "Each business, each person has their own little combination. So part one, I find, is find someone who's already done what you tried, wanted, want to do, because they've built a playbook." - Ben Albert Guest Links Join Ben's free community Listen to the Real Business Connections Podcast Complementary Consultation / Meet and Greet with Ben Connect with Ben Albert on LinkedIn Follow Real Business Connections on Facebook | YouTube Follow Balbert Marketing on Facebook Follow Ben Albert 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

Justin Schenck, founder of Growth Now and host of the Growth Now Movement podcast, shares how curiosity became his business superpower and why podcasting is the ultimate networking tool. He breaks down the harsh realities of podcasting (78% of shows quit after 7 episodes) while revealing how to use video skills as a "golden ticket" into high-value networking rooms. Justin emphasizes building genuine relationships over transactional networking, showing how simple curiosity-driven questions can lead to meaningful business connections.  Key Takeaways Podcasting is the ultimate networking tool - It gives you permission to reach out to anyone and have meaningful 45-minute conversations that build real relationships Use your video skills as access - Offer to create testimonials or recap videos for events you want to attend but can't afford, turning your craft into networking currency Curiosity beats hard selling every time - Simply asking "Have you ever thought about..." is more powerful than any sales pitch or business card exchange Local podcasts have massive monetization potential - Niche, local shows are easier to sponsor and can generate six-figure advertising revenue with smaller audiences About Justin Schenck Justin Schenck is an entrepreneur, speaker and the host of the top rated podcast the Growth Now Movement. He has been named a Top 8 Podcaster to follow by INC Magazine, featured in Thrive Global and chosen as an ‘Icon of Influence’ in the new media space.  Justin’s podcast has grown to become a podcast that is currently getting played in over 100 countries every single week and he has gone on to help countless people grow their brands and business with his company PodBrand.io  He is also the host and creator of one of the go to events for entrepreneurs and forward thinkers; Growth Now Summit LIVE! In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:26] Meet Justin Schenck [12:59] Networking [20:23] What's Your Vehicle? [22:14] Should You Start A Podcast? [29:26] Working With The Right Clients [37:17] Society for Human Resource Management [49:13] Connect with Justin [50:16] Outro Quotes "Curiosity is a superpower." - Justin Schenck "The greatest thing about podcasting is anybody can have a podcast. And the worst thing about podcasting is anybody can have a podcast." - Justin Schenck "78% of shows don't make it past their first seven episodes. It's called Podfade." - Justin Schenck "You have this superpower as filmmakers to get into almost any room with the thing that you can do." - Ryan Koral "The people who are worried about your price point are the worst people to work with." - Justin Schenck Guest Links Find Justin Schenck at the Growth Now Summit Follow Justin Schenck on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Listen to the Growth Now Movement 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

Executive coach Michael King breaks down why being talented at your craft doesn't automatically make you good at running a business. He shares his framework for moving from reactive daily tasks to intentional vision-building, emphasizing that most creatives are thinking way too small about what they're building. Michael challenges listeners to create a "to-be list" focused on identity and impact rather than just grinding through endless to-dos. Key Takeaways Talent vs. Leadership are different skills - You can be amazing at video production but terrible at running a video business, and both require intentional development Start with identity, then vision, then structure - Before diving into tactics, get clear on who you are, what you want to build, and who you need on your team Create bandwidth for future thinking - You have to intentionally make time to work ON your business, not just IN it, even when you're swamped with client work Embrace being "good and different" - Stop comparing yourself to others and own what makes you uniquely valuable in the marketplace About Michael King Michael King is not just a coach — he's a builder of people, companies, and creative movements. With over a decade of executive insight, creative thinking, and relentless execution, King has launched full-scale leadership systems and founded anti-agencies that prioritize genuine service over industry norms. At the center of King's approach is a fundamental belief that strategy, simplicity, and systems unlock the best in people. This philosophy drives his work across multiple domains: coaching Fortune 500 executives, building platforms for founders, and speaking to teams and leaders around the globe. King is the creator of innovative frameworks like TEAMS and leads transformative experiences through Accelerator, an immersive strategic coaching experience designed to drive meaningful change. His reputation is built on delivering insight without fluff, transformation without ego, and strategic thinking that helps leaders grow what matters most. Whether working with C-suite executives or emerging entrepreneurs, King brings the same commitment to practical wisdom and results-driven strategies that have made him a sought-after voice in leadership development and organizational transformation. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:19] Meet Michael King [13:51] Recognizing Your Talent [18:42] Learning to Run a Business [26:33] Future Thinking [32:37] Staying Focused On Your Calling [36:23] Good And Different [41:33] Connect with Michael [42:31] Outro Quotes "There's a huge difference between talent and leadership." - Michael King "The reason why you're not moving the needle is because the tactics and the strategies... [are] not connected to the vision." - Michael King "There's always room for good and different." - Michael King (quoting a club manager's advice to comedian Yakov Smirnoff) "You're leaving too much on the table. It's not big enough. It's not impactful enough. You have more in you." - Michael King "The people that you surround yourself by will determine the future of your business." - Michael King Guest Links Find Michael King online Connect with Michael King on LinkedIn Follow Michael King on Instagram | Twitter Follow Teams Coach on Instagram | Facebook 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

Dan Clouser, author and podcast host, shares his journey from running a youth sports organization for 30 years to full-time RV life while hosting "The Journey of My Mother's Son" podcast. He emphasizes that growth only happens outside your comfort zone and reveals how years of coaching taught him that life, like baseball, is a game where you're either winning or learning. Dan discusses the power of authentic storytelling, the importance of listening without judgment, and how genuine conversations reveal that people have far more in common than they realize.  Key Takeaways Growth requires discomfort - You can only grow outside your comfort zone, whether that's being pushed or making a conscious decision to step into uncomfortable territory You're either winning or learning - Failure is only truly failure if you don't learn something from it; every loss contains a lesson that can prevent future defeats Authentic connection beats perfect branding - Being willing to show your face, share your story, and be vulnerable creates deeper connections than hiding behind logos or polished facades Listen to understand, not to respond - Real conversations happen when you listen to understand someone's perspective rather than just waiting for your turn to speak About Dan Clouser Dan Clouser is an author, blogger, podcast host, speaker, and consultant who founded and operated the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club (later the BIG Vision Foundation) for 30 years. The organization ran youth sports teams, tournaments, and a 130-acre sports complex, where he dedicated his career to teaching leadership and life lessons to young people. In 2019, he and his wife Sandy answered what they felt was a calling to leave their comfort zone and embark on a cross-country RV journey. Inspired by his late mother Loretta Magary—a free spirit who took her own transformative travels in the 1980s—they sold most of their possessions and hit the road with their golden retriever, Youkilis, to continue her legacy of giving back through volunteering and storytelling. Through speaking engagements, writing, and podcasting, he shares the stories of the "many little people in many little places doing many little things" who are making a difference in the world. His mission is to inspire others to take their own steps toward positive change, honoring the belief that collective small actions can transform the world. Following Youkilis's passing in April 2024, he and Sandy continue their journey together, documenting the remarkable people they meet along the way. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:38] Meet Dan Clouser [05:51] Comfort Zones [11:37] A Game of Failure [16:42] Journey of My Mother's Son [21:54] Creating Personal Connection [29:08] Understanding Someone's Why [34:14] "A Good Boy's Journey" [37:11] Connect With Dan [40:04] Outro Quotes "Growth only happens when you're uncomfortable. You can't grow any other way." - Dan Clouser "You're either winning or learning. It's only a failure if you don't learn something from that failure." - Dan Clouser "All of us as human beings have a lot more in common than what we don't. We're a lot more alike than we are different." - Dan Clouser "Understanding is not necessarily agreeing." - Dan Clouser "This is the first shot that we've all had at this life. We're all going through this the first time with no experience of what's coming next." - Dan Clouser Guest Links Find Dan Clouser online Follow Dan Clouser on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Check out Dan's latest book: A Good Boy's Journey 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

Terry Rice, a former Facebook executive turned keynote speaker and performance coach, shares his powerful transformation story from corporate alcoholic to successful entrepreneur after losing everything. He reveals his R3 framework (Reclaim, Realign, Rebuild) for personal and business transformation while emphasizing the importance of authentic personal branding over perfectionism. Terry demonstrates how being vulnerable about his struggles - including addiction, job loss, and family tragedies - has actually opened doors to bigger opportunities, including speaking at Google and having a documentary made about his life. Key Takeaways Character branding beats personal branding - Show your real self, including failures and struggles, rather than a polished façade that people can't relate to Own your flaws as fuel - Use your mistakes, challenges, and pain as branding material rather than trying to hide them - it creates deeper connections with your audience Authenticity opens unexpected doors - Being vulnerable about personal struggles can lead to major opportunities, as Terry's experience shows from one LinkedIn comment to a documentary deal Identity-first transformation works - Get crystal clear on who you are and what you represent before focusing on tactics, systems, or external business elements About Terry Rice Terry Rice is a keynote speaker, performance coach, and author who helps professionals align who they are with where they’re going—then act accordingly. Known for his bold, story-driven approach, Terry teaches leaders how to live and tell better stories that build trust, drive impact, and unlock exponential growth. Whether on stage or in a coaching session, he blends lived experience with actionable strategies to help high performers shed limiting identities, ignite their vision, and build rituals that deliver lasting results. Before launching his coaching and speaking business, Terry held consulting roles at Meta and Adobe—giving him a firsthand view into high-performance business environments. His insights have been featured by Good Morning America, Fast Company, and The Wall Street Journal, and he’s spoken for top organizations including Amazon, Google, and Berkshire Hathaway. Terry also teaches entrepreneurship at General Assembly and contributes regularly to Entrepreneur.com. Based in Brooklyn, he’s a proud husband and father of five and a relentless advocate for mental and physical fitness as the foundation of long-term success. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:54] Meet Terry Rice [14:13] Character Brand [19:07] Own Your Flaws [25:07] Being Authentic [36:32] Intentionally Reflecting [41:29] Follow The Plan [45:26] Connect with Terry [47:19] Outro Quotes "If I look at your brand and think to myself, I would not hang out with you on purpose. Why would I want to work with you? Because that's me hanging out with you on purpose, right?" - Terry Rice "The more you can own your edge and use that as fuel, use that as branding, the faster you'll grow and you'll remove some of that guilt, that regret, that shame that you might have as well." - Terry Rice "There's two types of pain, right? There's the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The challenge is the pain of discipline weighs ounces, whereas regret weighs tons." - Terry Rice "I don't care about your editing tools. I don't care if you're using Adobe. I want to know about your soul. Because if our souls are aligned with a message that I want to spread, then cool, we're good." - Terry Rice "We can't go back and create a new beginning, but we can start from now and create a new ending." - Terry Rice Guest Links Find Terry Rice online Follow Terry Rice on Instagram | Threads| Twitter | YouTube Connect with Terry Rice on LinkedIn Check out more resources from Terry Rice 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

Ryan shares the hard truth that discipline, not hustle, is the real path to freedom in your video business. He breaks down the three key strategies that helped him build a seven-figure agency while working only three days a week: understanding the difference between working in vs. on your business, setting clear quarterly priorities, and implementing time blocking. This solo episode is a wake-up call for video business owners who are stuck reacting to whatever's in front of them instead of intentionally building toward their goals. Key Takeaways Work ON your business, not just IN it - Schedule regular CEO time for vision-setting, process creation, and strategic planning instead of only doing shoots, edits, and admin work Focus on one clear quarterly goal - Break down annual goals into quarterly milestones with clearly defined "done" criteria, then create weekly tasks to achieve them Implement time blocking - Create themed days or dedicated blocks for different types of work (deep work, admin, marketing, sales) to stay focused and avoid distractions Hope isn't a strategy - While hope is important, you need a focused plan and the discipline to execute it consistently to achieve real business growth In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [08:10] Reclaim Control in Your Business [10:54] Doing the Hard Things [14:55] Knowing What You Want [16:09] The Price of Freedom [19:56] Working In Vs. Working On [22:36] Get Clear On Your Goals [24:46] Time Blocking [33:15] Share Your Goals [36:56] Outro Quotes "Growth only happens when you're uncomfortable. You can't grow any other way." - Ryan Koral "Discipline is the price of freedom." - Ryan Koral (quoting Elton True Blood from the 1920s) "Hope isn't a strategy. You must have hope. You should have hope... But the problem is that we get stuck in this like just hoping that our previous project is going to get our next work." - Ryan Koral "Excellence comes at a price and one of the major prices is that of inner control." - Ryan Koral (quoting Elton True Blood) "Being the best filmmaker isn't the thing that has helped this business be around for 20 years... I've had a plan and I've been executing on that plan." - Ryan Koral Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   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

Chris Robinson, Executive Vice President of Maxwell Leadership, shares his powerful framework for breaking out of business complacency in his new book "From Drift to Drive." He reveals how successful entrepreneurs often drift into "careless security" where they stop doing the things that made them successful in the first place. Chris outlines his seven-step process to help business owners regain clarity, build community, and take intentional action toward their goals.  Key Takeaways Complacency isn't laziness - it's "careless security" where you become comfortable and stop sharpening the skills that got you where you are Start with clarity - consistently ask yourself "What do I want?" because your goals should evolve as you grow Align your daily actions with your annual goals - check if your weekly to-do list matches what you said you wanted at the beginning of the year Community beats competition - surrounding yourself with like-minded people opens more doors than trying to protect your "secrets" About Chris Robinson Chris Robinson is the Executive Vice President of Maxwell Leadership and author of From Drift to Drive. He leads the global expansion of the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team, a premier community of coaches, speakers, and trainers developed by Dr. John C. Maxwell.  With over two decades of experience, Chris specializes in equipping leaders across industries with the skills and mindset for meaningful impact. Known for his authentic approach and dynamic speaking style, he highlights the dangers of "success-induced complacency" and offers strategies for sustained excellence.  As a dedicated coach and lifelong learner, Chris inspires professionals to transform comfortable success into purposeful growth, empowering them to maximize their potential and make a lasting difference. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:04] Meet Chris Robinson [05:23] From Drift to Drive [07:56] Complacency [11:36] Clarity [16:17] Gathering [17:42] Filtering [18:34] Guidance [25:29] Action [26:13] Evaluation [34:10] Connect with Chris [34:56] Outro Quotes "The gap between what's good and our potential, that gap is great. And so if we can take what we're good at and we can really begin to go back and sharpen that, hone that like we did in order to build that skill set, then we can start reaching towards our potential." - Chris Robinson ”Every single time, Ryan, that you've been crystal clear on what it is that you want, you've got it every single time." - Chris Robinson "You don't have to do this business alone. There's communities you can plug into. There's guides you can plug into. You don't have to make this all up." - Chris Robinson "Any success that I've achieved, it's because I haven't been afraid to build community and build a relationship with people that are doing the exact same thing as me." - Ryan Koral "My goal for this book is to awaken the unknowingly complacent to help them get going, reignited, and back on track to where they want to go." - Chris Robinson Guest Links Find Chris Robinson website | eSpeakers Find Maxwell Leadership website | Facebook | YouTube Follow Chris Robinson on Facebook  Connect with Chris Robinson on LinkedIn From Drift to Drive: A High Achiever's Guide to Breaking the Chains of Complacency, by Chris Robinson Get Your Free Complacency Assessment Profile 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

Phil Mershon, founder of Social Media Marketing World and Unforgettable Events, shares insider secrets on how video producers can transform from vendors into strategic partners. He reveals the mindset shifts and tactical approaches that make event organizers choose you over the competition. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone wanting to build long-term relationships with event clients. Key Takeaways Position yourself as a strategic partner by understanding client goals and revenue outcomes, not just filming requirements Treat hybrid events like television productions to create experiences that compete with Netflix-quality content people expect today Use daily check-ins and "must-have" lists to ensure you capture critical moments while staying flexible for spontaneous opportunities Ask outcome-focused questions upfront to become the thinking partner who takes pressure off your client's team About Phil Mershon Phil Mershon is CEO of Unforgettable Experiences and the director of experience for Social Media Examiner where he helped create and lead Social Media Marketing World. Phil creates memorable experiences that lead to increased retention, and impact. In addition, Phil is also a keynote speaker, corporate trainer, consultant, and the author of Unforgettable: The Art and Science of Creating Memorable Experiences. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:26] Meet Phil Mershon [06:51] Phil's Journey to Event Planning [10:23] Event Recap Videos [18:34] Getting Hired for Events [21:58] Become a Thinking Partner [32:02] How to Not Miss Moments [35:51] Interview Questions [43:22] Social Media Marketing World [46:32] Connect with Phil [48:28] Outro Quotes "You become part of our team as opposed to a vendor who we have to manage." - Phil Mershon "Your show is competing with Netflix and Amazon and all these things right now. And we can help you." - Ryan Koral "If you can stand out and say, we get it... we can make this show maybe not the same quality because we don't have a million dollar budget, but it can feel that way." - Phil Mershon "The first thing that's going to get my attention is you've understood what my goals are and you know how to make those a reality as opposed to talking about gear and people." - Phil Mershon "You still have to have great content to show me you've got skill. I don't care what kind of cameras you're using. I just need what's the outcome." - Phil Mershon Guest Links Follow Phil Mershon online Follow Phil Mershon on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Threads Connect with Phil Mershon on LinkedIn Social Media Marketing World 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

Business coach Angie Callen shares how creative entrepreneurs can overcome perfectionism and imposter syndrome by embracing authenticity, focusing on serving clients rather than impressing peers, and implementing practical time and energy management strategies. Key Takeaways Successful entrepreneurship is 80% mindset and 20% everything else - being willing to get vulnerable and step in front of the camera is essential for video pros who want to build trust Focus on creating content for your potential clients rather than worrying what your peers will think - "generosity is the opposite of comparison" and collaboration beats competition Manage both your time AND energy by implementing theme days, time blocking, and scheduling your most challenging tasks during your peak energy hours About Angie Callen Angie Callen is an award-winning coach, international speaker, and obsessive entrepreneur who loves empowering others to lead amazing lives with thriving careers, all while embracing authenticity.  She’s a Carnegie Mellon graduate and former engineer known for her strategic, analytical, yet creative approach to marketing, sales, and business growth. A fun, engaging, and energetic speaker, Angie is unapologetically one thing: herself!  She’s passionate about helping executives, leaders, and entrepreneurs embrace their natural gifts and strengths for ultimate gains in life AND work. Angie’s thought leadership has appeared in Forbes, NASDAQ, USA Today, Business Insider, Yahoo! Finance, and more.  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:33] Meet Angie Callen [08:11] Having a Healthy Mindset [12:23] Imposter Syndrome [16:46] Overcoming Perfectionism with Action [27:33] Authenticity [39:08] Preventing Burnout [43:11] Energy Management [44:10] Connect with Angie [45:30] Outro Quotes "Perfectionism is a procrastination technique, y'all. Perfectionism will hold you back more than it will push you forward, especially in entrepreneurship... The best antidote to the imposter syndrome is action." - Angie Callen "Your relationship, your personal relationship, your spouse, the person you choose to do life with will have just as much, if not more impact on the success of your business as you, because if you do not have a supportive one, you will not be successful." - Angie Callen "I think successful entrepreneurship is 80% mindset and 20% everything else. Because if your headspace isn't there and you don't have a little of that grit and a little of that conviction around what you're doing, the roller coaster of ups and downs... is going to make you real sick real fast." - Angie Callen "From a bigger picture strategy perspective, focus on one thing at a time, chunk it down because growing a business is a giant amorphous blob that is really hard to make sense of." - Angie Callen Guest Links Find Angie Callen online Listen to the No More Mondays podcast Learn more about The Modern Coach community Follow Career Benders on Instagram | Facebook Follow Angie Callen on Instagram Links Stop hiding and start showing up; learn more about the Video Cohort 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

Chad Brown shares his journey from running a "successful" but personally destructive film business to completely redesigning his work to serve his life, offering powerful insights about the specific reflection processes that can help video professionals build profitable businesses without sacrificing what matters most. Key Takeaways The results in your life reveal the truth about your priorities - if you say family is important but your calendar and bank account tell a different story, you're living a lie Get extremely specific about what you want (not just "more time off" but when, where, how long, with whom) because vague goals prevent you from taking real action Your business doesn't have to look any particular way to be successful - question industry norms and design a model that actually serves your life priorities About Chad Brown Chad Brown is a scaling strategist and coach. He founded a media production studio called Shade Tree Films in 2008 that has serviced global companies such as Volkswagen, Target, and Pixar Animation Studios. This is where his love and passion for leadership and business was developed. Over the last 7 years he has trained and developed creative entrepreneurs who want to increase their profit and work less. When he is not helping others create more freedom in their business, you will find (or won't be able to find) Chad on a wild adventure in the mountains with his family. He resides at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in Orem, Utah, with his wife Katie and three children (Addison, Kenya, and Milo). In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:07] Meet Chad Brown [05:37] Chad's Filmmaking Experience [10:58] Are You Fulfilled? [13:29] Prioritizing Family [21:00] Identify What You Want [27:30] Prices Verses Benefits Exercise [30:20] Connect with Chad [34:22] Outro Quotes "When I hired my coach...he just looked at me and said, 'You're lying to yourself. You may like the idea of being a family man, but look at the results that you have in your life right now. The results are the truth. The story you tell, unfortunately at this moment is a lie.'" - Chad Brown "If I say one thing's important, but my calendar and my bank account say something different, then I'm living a lie. And until those two things align, it's gonna be despair." - Chad Brown "Most people build their life around their business rather than building their business around their life...You can do that. People build all types of businesses, it doesn't have to look a single way." - Chad Brown "It's a psychological principle that our mind will generalize things so that they're not actionable because action takes energy...If I get really specific about something, my brain goes, 'Okay, this is real. Now I've got to take action.'" - Chad Brown Guest Links Find Chad Brown online Get Chad's FREE Business Scaling Masterclass 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

Ryan opens up about his nine-year journey of building the wrong kind of video business and his recent pivot toward creating something sellable. He shares candid insights about hitting seven figures, the challenges since 2020, and why he's now focused on packages over custom work while addressing a filmmaker's concerns about AI taking over the industry. Key Takeaways Building a business that can run without you creates more freedom than being the indispensable creative at the center of everything Package-based services with predictable pricing are more scalable and sellable than endless custom projects Position yourself as a strategic partner who offers workshops and thinking partnership, not just shooting and editing services AI won't replace filmmakers who differentiate themselves through strategy, storytelling, and client partnership rather than just technical execution In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:12] 10xFILMMAKER [04:46] New Goals for a New Season [14:05] Adjusting Your Direction [19:13] Built To Sell [28:39] When AI Impacts Our Work [31:03] Marketing Yourself [36:42] Mastermind Community [41:40] Outro Quotes "It took me nine years to realize that I was building the wrong kind of video business. I always thought freedom meant doing everything myself, being the creative, the editor, the salesperson and the project manager." - Ryan "If the only thing that you're offering is showing up for somebody and filming B-roll type stuff and just following the directions that somebody has for you, it's going to be really easy for that same client to have a machine follow directions for them." - Ryan  "If you're positioning yourself as shooter editor, that's not as compelling and that's not as helpful for a client that needs somebody that understands more, that understands how marketing works or why it works." - Ryan "We just landed a $20,000 gig a couple of weeks ago with a client that wanted to spend $5,000... I somehow talked them into doing this workshop, a paid workshop that was going to take half of the budget that they had set aside." - Ryan "I still believe that this work is so powerful. I believe that it can make a massive impact and that's why I feel compelled to stay in it even if and when I sell this company." - Ryan  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

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