How to Scale a Video Business with Den Lennie

Send us a textThis week's episode is a personal one. Den shares the incredible story of Bruce Logan ASC - the man behind the Death Star explosion in Star Wars — and the humbling lessons he learned from working with him.But it’s not just about nostalgia. Den also pulls no punches about the real state of the video industry in 2025: budget cuts, slower sales cycles, and why many creative businesses are quietly collapsing without realizing it.You'll learn why "good enough" might actually save your business this year... and why community, mentorship, and adaptability are more critical than ever.If you’re serious about building a sustainable creative business — especially in a tougher market — this episode is unmissable.🎥 Watch the behind-the-scenes footage of Bruce’s project for Sony, coming soon to YouTube.➡️ Ready for real business support? DM Den on Instagram @den_lennie or email den@denlennie.com.Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com Support the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a textAfter three decades behind the camera, I’ve made a big call…In this episode, I’m announcing something I’ve never done before: I’m releasing my entire archive of foundational training , shooting, lighting, camera operation, all for free on YouTube.These trainings once sold for thousands. Now, they’re yours to learn from, build on, and share.Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game a while, this is the kind of practical, real-world knowledge you won’t find on TikTok tutorials.Inside this episode:Why I’m giving away 30 years of production experienceWhat's inside the Videographer Foundation Series (now on YouTube)The difference between gear knowledge and storytelling skillHow you can apply for a $2,000 scholarship to join the VBA Uplevel program if you're in a regional areaThis is about giving back and helping the next wave of filmmakers stop guessing and start growing.🎥 Check out the free training: [Search “Den Lennie The Video Mentors” on YouTube] 🎓 Apply for a scholarship: DM “SCHOLARSHIP” on Instagram @denlennie or email den@thevideomentors.comLearn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com Support the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a textEver feel like your video business is stuck in survival mode, feast or famine, no time to breathe, and definitely no time to grow?In this episode, Den sits down with Matt Smolen, founder of Balloon Tree Productions, to uncover the surprisingly simple system that helped him go from an overwhelmed solo freelancer to running a thriving 5-person team, operating out of a slick Melbourne studio.Matt reveals:The 1-4-8 rule that created consistent monthly revenueHow he finally stopped micromanaging and started leadingWhy he ditched the traditional niche and leaned into his unique creative styleThe mindset shift that let him build a business that supports his life—not consumes itIf you’re ready to stop doing everything yourself and start building something sustainable (and fun), this episode is a must-listen.👉 Want more behind-the-scenes lessons from real video business owners? Subscribe and leave a review, it helps us help more creatives like you.Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com Support the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a textIn this inspiring conversation, Den Lennie sits down with Caleb Maxwell from Hebron Films to unpack the real, behind-the-scenes journey of growing a video production business from a struggling startup to a thriving six-figure operation. Caleb shares the raw truths of making just $25K a year, hitting revenue ceilings, and the pivotal role coaching played in scaling up to $500K. This episode explores what it really takes to grow sustainably in the creative industry, from overcoming limiting beliefs about money to building a purpose-driven business (and family).If you're a videographer, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur feeling stuck, this episode is your roadmap to aligned, strategic growth, with a whole lot of heart.Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com Support the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a textIn this candid solo episode, I reflect on key lessons from dozens of conversations with videographers over the past 90 days. From the difference between those who are scaling successful video businesses and those who are stuck whining, to the transformative power of reframing client problems, this video is packed with hard-won wisdom.I break down how adopting a business mindset, asking deeper diagnostic questions, and moving away from transactional pricing can unlock long-term client relationships and serious revenue. Real stories from our VBA coaches, like Caleb turning a $5K inquiry into a $27K project, demonstrate the power of positioning video as a solution to business problems, not just a service.Whether you're freelancing, stuck in a feast-or-famine cycle, or looking to grow a serious video business, this episode will give you the insights (and wake-up call) you need.👉 Listen until the end for the story about how one video install guide helped a client win over tradies and dominate their niche.Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com Support the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a textJay Moyes was this close to giving up on his video business dreamsHe was ready to trade his camera for a wrench and go back to .. But instead? He built a six-figure video business and now gets paid to travel the world, filming in incredible locations. And the craziest part? It all came down to one decision that completely changed everything. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your creative career or wondered if success is really possible, Jay’s story might be exactly what you need to hearSupport the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text📞 Waiting for work to come to you? It’s time to make the first move.When business slows down, it’s easy to get stuck in waiting mode—but the best opportunities often come from the connections you’ve already made.This episode dives into practical ways to generate leads and secure work during lean times. We explore the power of checking in with past clients and nurturing existing relationships to unlock new business.You’ll also hear insights on cold outreach, the power of referrals, and why self-belief is key to staying proactive and resilient. Because success starts with action.The Video Mentors: Den Lennie, Andy Johnston, Caleb Maxell, Matt SmolenDownload the Little Black Book of Video Business Secrets: The Success Formula of 6 and 7-figure Video Businesses - Stand out, win premium projects, and grow while working less.Get more great resources and check out how you can work with us in our FREE community directly at TheVideoMentors.comFollow us on Instagram00:00 Introduction and Addressing the Perception of Lean Times01:27 The Power of Genuine Conversations and Checking In on Past Clients07:37 Utilizing LinkedIn for Outreach and Collaboration11:18 Nurturing Existing Clients and Offering Additional Services15:34 The Importance of Mindset and Self-Belief in BusinessSupport the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a textIn this candid episode, Den shares a behind-the-scenes look at what's been working and what hasn't - on the podcast. After experimenting with a new format featuring multiple video mentors, the data shows it's time for a change. Den announces a shift back to engaging solo episodes and one-on-one interviews while introducing an exciting new approach: live problem-solving sessions for video business owners.  Tune in to hear how you can participate and help shape the future of the podcast! Download the Little Black Book of Video Business Secrets: The Success Formula of 6 and 7-figure Video Businesses - Stand out, win premium projects, and grow while working less.Get more great resources and check out how you can work with us in our FREE community directly at TheVideoMentors.comFollow us on InstagramSupport the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text🔥 Are you fired up and ready to go for 2025, or 🤔 already in need of a reset?Burnout can creep in when you’re juggling growth and balance, but it doesn’t have to be inevitable.This episode unpacks how delegation, prioritisation, and self-reflection can keep you focused on what matters most. We explore the value of building a strong support network and how hobbies, creative outlets, and physical activity can help you recharge.You’ll also hear tips on embracing rest, practising mindfulness, and quieting your mind to stay grounded. Because scaling your business shouldn’t mean sacrificing your well-being.Ready to find your balance and keep burnout at bay?The Video Mentors: Den Lennie, Alana Tompson, Caleb Maxell, Matt SmolenDownload the Little Black Book of Video Business Secrets: The Success Formula of 6 and 7-figure Video Businesses - Stand out, win premium projects, and grow while working less.Get more great resources and check out how you can work with us in our FREE community directly at TheVideoMentors.comFollow us on Instagram00:00 Introduction and Setting the Topic01:30 Delegation and Letting Go05:23 Recognising Overstretch and Prioritising Tasks09:41The Power of Community and Support14:35 The Role of Physical Activity and Hobbies17:13 Rest and Self-Care: Essential for Avoiding Burnout25:19 Quieting the Mind and Tapping into the Heart Keywords:Den Lennie, The video mentors, video business coaching, building a business, video mentor, filmmaker, marketing, videographers, burnout, balance, scaling a business, delegation, letting go, self-reflection, community, connection, support, physical activity, hobbies, creative outlets, rest, sleep, mental health, mindfulness Support the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a textIn this episode, Den reflects on the importance of perception and clarity in running a video production business. He emphasizes the value of niching down to stand out in a crowded market, the significance of keeping strategies simple and focusing on measurable goals. Den also shares insights on effective marketing strategies, including Instagram content and targeted ads, while stressing the importance of maintaining work-life balance. 💡Download the Little Black Book of Video Business Secrets: The Success Formula of 6 and 7-figure Video Businesses - Stand out, win premium projects, and grow while working less.Get more great resources and check out how you can work with us in our FREE community directly at TheVideoMentors.comFollow us on InstagramSupport the showConnect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com