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Minding My Creative Business Podcast

Minding My Creative Business Podcast

Hosted by Ron "Ironic" Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks

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Episodes

47

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN

About the show

MMCB Podcast helps you embrace the business of creativity! Every week, go with Ron "iRonic" Lee and ShySpeaks behind the brand of some of the most wildly successful creative entrepreneurs. You'll be sure to gain access to the strategy and structure that turn creative arts into viable 6, 7, and even 8 figure businesses! Trust us, you're not the only _____ (*insert your creative genius here*) that struggled with generating a full-time income from your skillset and passion. But musician, photographer, designer, etc. all over the world have embrace the power of information, implemented business principles & systems, and moved from creatives to CEOs thereby turning their passion into profits. Say this out loud: All it takes is intention, consistency, and laser-focus to Mind My Creative Business!

Listen to episodes

47 recent
June 15, 202658 min

18 Years in PR: The Real Systems, Sales & Strategy Behind High-Ticket Clients | ft. Briana Gallen

You want bigger clients… but you’re not operating like someone who can handle them.In Episode 46 of Season 6, ShySpeaks and Ron sit down with Briana Gallen, founder of Swank PR, to break down what it actually takes to run a high-level PR business after 18 years in the game.This episode is not theory.It’s not “motivation.”It’s real execution — from onboarding systems, to pricing structure, to pitching at scale, to managing client expectations.If you’re still freelancing without structure…if your income is inconsistent…if you want $30K–$40K clients…This episode shows you exactly what needs to change.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy High-Ticket Clients Require Structure (Not Just Talent)The Real PR Workflow (Step-by-Step)Why She Gets Paid 45 Days Ahead (And Why You Should Care)The Truth About PR: It’s NOT About Making You MoneyWhat “Media Ready” Actually MeansWhy Systems Beat Custom Work Every TimeThe Metrics That Actually Matter in PRWhy Most Creatives Undervalue Their WorkWhy You Can’t Depend on One ClientQuotable Moments“My job is visibility — not your revenue.”“If you want high-ticket clients, you need high-level systems.”“You plant seeds everywhere… they grow when they’re supposed to.”“You can’t depend on one client.”“If your cup is empty, you can’t serve anyone.”“Not everyone is meant to be a CEO — and that’s okay.”Connect with MMCB:Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/minding-my-creative-business-podcast/id1724893043Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1Uo7amHW0dR2tBd3gMgOV4?si=511ddd99b115418bYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mindingmycreativebusinessInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindingmycreativebusinessWebsite: www.mmcbpocast.comYou Have the Creativity. Now Build the Business Around It.Every creative has a story — but talent alone is not the business. Structure is what turns ideas into income, consistency into growth, and creativity into something sustainable.That is the work behind the Creative to CEO Challenge. In five days, Ron and Shy will help you clarify your signature offer, price it with confidence, and build a 90-day plan that gives your creative business direction, focus, and momentum.If this episode reminded you that your creativity deserves more structure, this is your next step.Join the Creative to CEO Challenge — https://creativetoceochallenge.comBuild with intention. Create with heart. Turn your creativity into a business that lasts.

June 8, 202644 min

You’re Not Broke — Your Client Journey Is Broken: 7 Hidden Leaks Costing You Thousands

You’re getting inquiries… but the money still isn’t consistent. Why?In Episode 45 of Season 6, ShySpeaks and Ron break down one of the most overlooked reasons creative entrepreneurs struggle to scale:a broken client journey.You’re getting messages.You’re booking clients.You’re delivering work.But something still feels off.That “off” feeling?It’s profit leakage happening across your entire process.This episode walks you step-by-step through the full client journey — from first inquiry to repeat purchase — and exposes exactly where creatives lose money, time, and opportunities.If your income feels inconsistent, this is not a marketing problem.It’s a systems problem.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat a Client Journey Actually Is (And Why Most Creatives Ignore It)Phase 1: Attraction — Where Most Money Is Lost FirstWhy Qualification Isn’t About Rejecting PeoplePhase 2: Activation — Where Structure Creates or Kills TrustThe Hidden Cost of Poor OnboardingPhase 3: Fulfillment — Where Most Creatives Guess Instead of SystemizeWhy You Need SOPs (Even If You Hate Systems)Phase 4: Ascension — The Most Ignored Revenue OpportunityThe Real Reason You Feel “Busy But Broke”Quotable Moments“You’re not broke — your client journey is broken.”“If you don’t respond, you already lost the sale.”“Don’t reject — redirect.”“If it’s not documented, it’s not scalable.”“Busy doesn’t mean profitable.”“Your job isn’t just to deliver — it’s to guide the journey.”Resources & LinksJoin the Creative to CEO 5-Day Challenge👉 www.creativetoceochallenge.comBusiness Credit Support (up to $150K):👉 creditsavant.ioConnect with MMCB:🌍 Website: www.mmcbpodcast.com📸 Instagram: @mmcbpodcast“All it takes is intention, consistency, and laser focus to mind my creative business.”

June 1, 202654 min

Character Is the Business Plan Nobody Talks About ft. Cindy Beasley | Morally Simple Productions & Creative Cipher | Chicago

Episode Summary:Cindy Beasley didn't take the Hollywood route — she watched what happened to people who did, decided it wasn't for her, and built her own table instead. Now she's the founder of Morally Simple Productions and the newly appointed President of Creative Cipher, a Chicago-rooted creative ecosystem that hosts the XL Film Festival, attracts AMC executives, and is being built into the next Viacom. This conversation goes deep into what it actually takes to survive and scale in entertainment — and it starts long before you ever pick up a camera.What You'll Learn:Why vision has to come before team, software, or strategy — and how skipping this step is the fastest way to build something that collapses under its own weightWhat separates a creative who lands big deals from one who stays stuck — and why grit, resilience, and character aren't soft skills, they're your most bankable assets in entertainmentHow to build a creative ecosystem that generates revenue from multiple directions — ticket sales, commission fees, partnerships, and beyond — without losing the community-first mission that makes people careThe real metric Cindy uses to measure financial success that has nothing to do with your revenue number — and everything to do with how you treat the people who help you buildHow to position yourself so that your best opportunities find you — instead of spending your life applying for rooms that were never designed to let you inKey Quotes:"There's no need to go ask for permission to sit at the next table — when you got this table right here that we built for us." — Cindy Beasley"If you want to not just sustain but grow and elevate, it has to be in you. The 'fake it till you make it' mask is going to come off at the maximum point — every time." — Cindy Beasley"My best opportunities — I never interviewed for. They found me. That's what character does over time." — Cindy BeasleyResources + Links Mentioned:Creative Cipher — https://creativecypher.org/XL Film Festival (Annual — Hyde Park, Chicago — every third weekend in August) — https://filmfreeway.com/XLFestMorally Cinful Productions — https://www.morallycinfulproductions.com/MMCB Creative to CEO Challenge — www.creativetoceochallenge.comConnect with MMCB:Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/minding-my-creative-business-podcast/id1724893043Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1Uo7amHW0dR2tBd3gMgOV4?si=511ddd99b115418bYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mindingmycreativebusinessInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindingmycreativebusinessWebsite: www.mmcbpocast.comYour Vision Is the Strategy. Now Let's Build the Structure Around It.Cindy didn't build Creative Cipher by waiting for someone to hand her a blueprint — she started with a clear vision and figured out the rest from there. That's exactly what the Creative to CEO Challenge is designed to help you do. In five focused days, Ron and Shy will walk you through identifying your signature offer, pricing it with confidence, and laying out the 90-day structure that takes you from creative to CEO — for real this time.Join the Creative to CEO Challenge — www.creativetoceochallenge.comAll it takes is intention, consistency, and laser focus — to mind your creative business.

May 25, 202637 min

She Went for 100 Nos on Purpose — Here's What Happened Next ft. Isabel Bora

Episode Summary:Isabel Bora didn't wait until she was ready — she started in her bathroom, pregnant, modeling wigs at night while her baby slept, and reaching out to 40 companies before she got her first yes. In 14 months, she built Sugar Bridals into a premium bridal hair brand serving brides of color, closed 62 brides in year one, assembled a 5-person team, and used her creative business income to buy her first real estate investment. If you've been sitting on a skill, second-guessing your prices, or wondering how long it's supposed to take — this episode is the answer.What You'll Learn:How to find and own a niche that the market is ignoring — and why underserved audiences often become your most loyal, highest-paying clientsThe counterintuitive truth about pricing: why charging too little kills your credibility faster than charging too much, and how to raise your rates with confidence even when you're still buildingHow to build a backend system that runs without you — from rotating VA schedules to human-first communication strategies that beat automation every timeThe difference between tracking revenue and tracking profit — and why confusing the two is the fastest way to look busy while going brokeHow to take the income from your creative business and turn it into a real asset — Isabel's exact path from $25,000 in business profit to her first real estate propertyKey Quotes:"I went for the first 100 nos. That's the mindset. After 20 nos, I take 24 hours, check my email, ask myself what I'm writing wrong, reposition — then I try again." — Isabel Bora"Drop the price. Then go silent. The first one to speak loses. If you start explaining why you charge what you charge, you already lost the power." — Isabel Bora"Don't get carried away with doing 80 people a day. Big companies make $60 million and close tomorrow. Track the profit — that's what keeps the lights on." — Isabel BoraResources + Links Mentioned:Shugar Bridal Hair (Isabel's company Instagram) — https://www.instagram.com/shugarhair/ Isabel Bora's contact / email — sugarhair1@gmail.comMMCB Creative to CEO Challenge — https://creativetoceochallenge.comCredit Savant (Business Funding) — www.creditsavant.ioConnect with MMCB:Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/minding-my-creative-business-podcast/id1724893043Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1Uo7amHW0dR2tBd3gMgOV4?si=511ddd99b115418bYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mindingmycreativebusinessInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindingmycreativebusinessWebsite: www.mmcbpocast.comYou Have a Skill. Now Build the Business Around It.Isabel started with a wig, a bathroom mirror, and a mindset that refused to quit. What she built in 14 months didn't happen by accident — it happened because she got clear on her offer, built structure around it, and stopped treating her talent like a hobby. If you're ready to do the same, the Creative to CEO Challenge is where that work starts. In five days, Ron and Shy will help you name your signature offer, price it with confidence, and build the 90-day plan that turns your creativity into a real business.Join the Creative to CEO Challenge — https://creativetoceochallenge.comAll it takes is intention, consistency, and laser focus — to mind your creative business.

May 18, 202632 min

Everybody Wins or Nobody Wins ft. Dominick "Dom" Domasky & Ramon Ray | Live from CreativeCon Chicago

Episode Summary:Most creatives are still playing small because they think collaboration is competition in disguise — this episode dismantles that lie in real time. Recorded live at CreativeCon Chicago, Ron and Shy sit down with bestselling author and Motivation Champs founder Dominick "Dom" Domasky and small business powerhouse Ramon Ray to unpack what it actually takes to build events, publishing companies, and creative communities that outlast the hype. If you've ever wondered whether your idea is big enough to become a movement, this conversation will show you the blueprint — and remind you that you were never supposed to build it alone.What You'll Learn:How to redefine yourself as a "creative" — even if you're in real estate, landscaping, or any industry that has nothing to do with the arts — and why that shift changes everything about how you market and growWhy every business you build has an invisible ceiling when you're the only one holding it up — and what to do before it stalls you outThe three non-negotiables of a successful event-based business — and which one will sink you faster than the other two combined if you ignore itHow Dom and Julie Laughton merged separate communities into a thriving live event — and how to apply that same strategy to your next launchThe "everybody wins" framework for building collaborations and partnerships that don't leave anyone holding an empty bagKey Quotes:"In 2026, if you're a real estate agent, a podcaster, a landscaper — you should be using video, podcasting, AI. When we say 'creative,' it's not just rah-rah. It's using the tools that all businesses should be using." — Dominick Domasky"Alone, we can do so little. My dad's business would only grow to what my dad could control. You bring in the right people — people who've done it, who want to add value — and two plus two stops equaling four." — Ramon Ray"Your message isn't my message. But that doesn't mean someone can't receive yours. Once I realized that, I stopped seeing competition and started seeing community." — Dominick DomaskyResources + Links Mentioned:CreativeCon Event — https://www.cre8tivecon.comMotivation Champs Publishing / Dominick Domasky — https://www.motivationchamps.comCelebrity CEO by Ramon Ray — https://www.ramonray.comMMCB Creative to CEO Challenge — https://creativetoceochallenge.comCredit Savant (Business Funding) — www.creditsavant.ioConnect with MMCB:Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/minding-my-creative-business-podcast/id1724893043Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/1Uo7amHW0dR2tBd3gMgOV4?si=511ddd99b115418bYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mindingmycreativebusinessInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindingmycreativebusinessWebsite: www.mmcbpocast.comReady to Stop Building Alone?If this conversation hit home, the Creative to CEO Challenge is your next move. In five days, Ron and Shy will help you identify your signature offer and build the 90-day structure around it — so you stop spinning and start executing. Less than $100. One hour a day.Join the Creative to CEO Challenge — https://creativetoceochallenge.com

May 4, 20261 hr 5 min

Season 5 Wrap-Up: Creative Courage, CEO Mindset & the Systems That Scale

Episode DescriptionTwo years in. Five seasons deep. And we are just getting started.In this Season 5 Wrap-Up episode of Mind My Creative Business, hosts Ron Lee Jr. and Shai Speaks take you on a full-circle journey through one of the most powerful seasons yet — recapping the game-changing conversations, frameworks, and strategies shared by this season's guest experts. Whether you are a creative entrepreneur just finding your footing or a seasoned CEO ready to scale, this episode is your master class in one.We are also celebrating a major milestone: two years of the Mind My Creative Business podcast. To mark the occasion, Ron and Shai officially launch the Creative to CEO Challenge — a free five-day live coaching experience designed to help creative entrepreneurs stop hustling and start building a business of purpose, profit, and peace.What We Cover in This EpisodeCreative Courage with Jalia Davis (Iconic Television)Jalia Davis did not just climb the ladder — she bought the building. Starting as an intern, Jalia's relentless work ethic and unshakeable character led to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire Iconic Television, a 24-hour network, for pennies on the dollar. The lesson? Your reputation is your greatest business asset. Creative courage is not just about talent — it is about showing up with integrity every single time.High Performance and the PGR Framework with Terry WilliamsMindset coach Terry Williams introduced his signature PGR Framework: Purpose, Growth, Rest — a three-part system for high-performing creative entrepreneurs. Terry's concept of "ustress" (intentional, productive stress) reframes discomfort as a growth tool. His most powerful analogy: your body is like a phone. If you never charge it, it dies and becomes useless. Rest is not a reward — it is a requirement.Niching Down for Impact with Shadera Naymith (Stacked Up Academy)Shadera Naymith, founder of Stacked Up Academy, proves that serving fewer people better is the path to greater impact. Her nonprofit uses creative products to teach technology and coding to youth — and her success comes from a disciplined commitment to niching down and building tiered programming that meets her audience where they are.Strategic Positioning with Tolu Berry (T-Berry Films)Photographer and filmmaker Tolu Berry dropped one of the season's most quotable truths: talent alone will not get you to the next level. Tolu's journey from charging $50 per shoot to landing five-figure brand campaigns was built on professional reliability — showing up on time, having clear delivery systems, and creating an experience that makes clients feel safe and valued. Your skill gets you in the room. Your professionalism keeps you there.Data-Informed Decisions with Kira DodsonAI and data expert Kira Dodson brought the season's most clarifying insight: internal clarity creates external authority. When you know your numbers — your KPIs, your conversion rates, your audience data — you stop making decisions based on feelings and start leading with confidence. Kira's framework challenges creative entrepreneurs to build data literacy as a core business skill.CEO Strategy Deep DivesMeeting Rhythms: The 4P FrameworkUnproductive meetings are one of the biggest hidden costs in a creative business. Ron and Shai break down the 4P Framework for Effective Meetings: Purpose (why are we meeting?), People (who actually needs to be in the room?), Process (what is the agenda?), and Payoff (what decision or deliverable comes out of this?). Every meeting should produce something tangible — or it should not happen.Automation: Doing More by Doing LessThe hosts challenge the "I'm overwhelmed because I'm growing" mindset and replace it with a more empowering truth: "I'm overwhelmed because I haven't optimized." The solution is a workflow audit — a systematic review of every task you touch to identify what can be automated, delegated, or eliminated. Ron shared a personal story of running his own workflow audit and discovering that nearly every task he touched was flagged red — a wake-up call that led to a complete operational overhaul.Team Leadership: Hire Slow, Fire FastIn response to a live audience question about team management, Ron and Shai offered a framework that every creative CEO needs to hear. Before you blame a team member for poor execution, ask yourself: Did I communicate the vision clearly? Did I give them the keys they needed to succeed? If the answer is yes and execution still fails — hire slow, fire fast.The Creative to CEO ChallengeThis season's biggest announcement: the Creative to CEO Challenge is officially open. This is a free five-day live coaching experience where Ron and Shai will walk you through building your 90-day profit plan, developing the habits of a high-performing CEO, and creating the systems that generate consistent cash flow — without burning out.VIP Upgrade available for those who want daily behind-the-scenes Q&A and bonus coaching sessions throughout the challenge.Partner SpotlightCredit Savant — Helping creative entrepreneurs access up to $150,000 in business credit to fund their growth. www.creditsavant.ioSavant CRM — The CRM and sales automation platform built for creative businesses. Manage your funnels, automate your follow-ups, and close more deals. https://systems-savant.com/ Connect with Your HostsRon Lee Jr. | @ronaldleejr | www.ronaldleejr.comShai Speaks | @ShySpeaks | www.shyspeaks.comSubscribe, Rate & Review — If this episode added value to your business, leave us a five-star review and share it with a creative entrepreneur who needs to hear it.Show Affirmation"All it takes is intention, consistency, and laser focus to mind my creative business."creative entrepreneur podcast CEO mindset creative to CEO small business strategy podcast for creatives business automation creative business growth black entrepreneurs entrepreneur podcast 2025 creative business systems how to scale a creative business mindset for entrepreneurs business coaching podcast workflow optimization creative economy

February 16, 202632 min

Automate to Elevate: Scaling Your Creative Business

The central theme of our discussion revolves around the imperative of automating mundane tasks to liberate oneself for pursuits of greater significance. We delve into the concept of a workflow audit, a critical exercise designed to identify areas of inefficiency within one's business processes. By implementing strategies to automate, delegate, and eliminate repetitive tasks, we can subsequently elevate our creative endeavors, thereby enhancing both productivity and satisfaction. We invite creative entrepreneurs to consider the profound benefits of this approach, particularly as it pertains to achieving a work-life balance that fosters innovation and growth. Join us as we explore actionable insights, aimed at transforming your routine into a framework that supports your aspirations for a flourishing creative enterprise.Episode Chapters 00:00 Automate to Save Time 04:31 Streamlined System for Productivity 09:02 Free Lunch Fridays Partnership Story 10:29 Workflow Audit Explained 14:24 Finding Balance and Delegation 18:15 Carving Out Creative Time 21:27 Workflow Audit for Less Hustle 25:20 Share & Support Creative Journeys 28:12 Speaking Shapes Beliefs and ActionsTakeaways:The importance of automating routine tasks is emphasized, enabling one to concentrate on extraordinary endeavors.Creative entrepreneurs can benefit significantly from a workflow audit to streamline their processes effectively.By reducing the number of times we handle tasks, we can identify opportunities for automation and delegation.Participating in the Creative to CEO challenge offers a structured environment to develop necessary business skills and mindset.🔗 Links & Resources: • Creative to CEO Challenge: https://creativetoceochallenge.com/ – gain clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income. • Business Funding: https://creditsavant.io/ – secure funding for your creative business. • Creativepreneur Gear: https://whatstheirony.com/ – apparel for the creative entrepreneur. • Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at https://mmcbpodcast.com/ for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes. 👍 Join Our Community • Listen to the show: https://feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast/ • Website & inquiries: https://mmcbpodcast.com | hello@mmcbpodcast.com • Follow us: • Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness • Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness • TikTok: @mindingmycreativebusiness We’re Ron & ShySpeaks, creative entrepreneurs turned business mentors. Each week we share strategies, mistakes and insights to help you build and scale your business like a CEO. Comment with your biggest takeaway, like if you got value, and subscribe for more creative entrepreneur tips!

February 9, 202659 min

AI Isn’t Replacing You, But Creatives Who USE AI Will: Data, Tools & CEO Mindset

AI isn’t replacing creatives, those who embrace AI are. In this eye‑opening episode of Minding My Creative Business, hosts Ron “iRonic” Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks chat with Kierra Dotson, an AI engineer, data conversationalist and entrepreneur. They explore how creative business owners can leverage data and AI to work smarter, not harder. A 2025 survey found that AI adoption among small businesses jumped from 39 % to 55 % in a year, with 80 % of users saying AI is essential for reaching new customers. Kierra explains why now is the time to join that movement and build AI into your workflow.You’ll learn how both product and service‑based businesses can collect, analyze and act on data to boost sales and customer engagement. Kierra shares her favorite AI tools—from generative design platforms like Adobe Express and Descript to customer‑service bots like Freshdesk and CRM assistants like Salesforce’s Agentforce Assistant—that make marketing, inventory management and video editing easier. She also highlights ethical challenges such as algorithmic bias—like how past AI systems have favored male résumés or misidentified women of color and offers strategies to ensure fairness through diverse data and oversight.The conversation covers advanced topics like generative AI SEO and “AI Overviews,” which now appear in nearly half of search results, why only a few companies are realizing extraordinary value from AI and how a disciplined, top‑down strategy can unlock transformation; and how to adopt a CEO mindset by reviewing your metrics, systematizing creativity, and embracing PGR (Purpose, Growth, Rest). Whether you’re a boutique owner or a videographer, this episode will help you harness AI and data while staying human at the core.🕒 Episode Chapters 0:00 – Empowering early AI adoption4:49 – Everyday AI applications explained9:18 – AI ethics: inclusion and bias12:55 – Data drives business success14:56 – Leveraging data for business insights16:43 – AI for R&D and growth22:29 – Optimize captions & analyze insights26:20 – Optimizing service businesses with data29:09 – Creative event planning tips32:46 – Understanding metrics and traffic insights34:27 – AI‑adapting job descriptions39:18 – Using AI for trend analysis41:08 – Creative ideation and event planning45:24 – “Loable”: fast, secure startup tool48:49 – Personalized shopping simplified50:40 – Strategic AI development framework53:54 – AI, business, and transformation🔑 Key Points • Why AI matters now: A 2025 survey found AI usage among small businesses surged 41 % in a year, and 80 % of users say it’s essential for customer growth. Companies implementing AI wisely are seeing savings of 20 + hours per month and $500–$2,000 monthly• Make AI work for you: Tools like Adobe Express, Descript, Freshdesk Freddy AI Copilot, Salesforce Agentforce Assistant and Microsoft 365 Copilot help creatives design marketing assets, edit videos, automate customer service, and analyze data without technical expertise• Data ethics and inclusivity: Past AI systems have reinforced bias (e.g., Amazon’s hiring algorithm favoring male résumés and image recognition misidentifying women of color). Kiara discusses building inclusive data sets, diverse teams, and responsible AI frameworks.• AI‑driven search & SEO: AI Overviews appear in nearly half of search results. Optimize content for conversational queries and generative engine optimization.• CEO mindset: Move from creator to CEO by setting clear goals, measuring what matters, and adopting a PGR framework (Purpose, Growth, Rest). A top‑down, disciplined AI strategy and focused workflows are key to transformative value.🔗 Links & Resources: • Creative to CEO Challenge: https://creativetoceochallenge.com/ – gain clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income.• Business Funding: https://creditsavant.io/ – secure funding for your creative business.• Creativepreneur Gear: https://whatstheirony.com/ – apparel for the creative entrepreneur.• Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at https://mmcbpodcast.com/ for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes.👥 Connect with Kierra • Facebook: @KierraDotson• Instagram: @iamkierrad👍 Join Our Community • Listen to the show: https://feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast/• Website & inquiries: https://mmcbpodcast.com | hello@mmcbpodcast.com• Follow us:• Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness• Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness• TikTok: @mindingmycreativebusinessWe’re Ron & ShySpeaks, creative entrepreneurs turned business mentors. Each week we share strategies, mistakes and insights to help you build and scale your business like a CEO. Comment with your biggest takeaway, like if you got value, and subscribe for more creative entrepreneur tips!

February 2, 202657 min

Talent Isn’t Enough. VALUE Yourself.

Talent alone won’t build a thriving business—you must value yourself and your craft. In this episode of Minding My Creative Business, hosts Ron “iRonic” Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks sit down with acclaimed photographer Tolulope Berry (T Berry Pictures) to explore how he turned a gift from his mother into a flourishing photography empire. The conversation covers valuing your work, building sustainable systems, and adopting a CEO mindset. In today’s creative economy, passion isn’t enough: a 2025 report notes that design services remain in high demand but that agencies must embrace new tools and strategic pricing to stay competitive. Another 2025 article warns that designers often underprice their services and need business literacy to defend their worth. You’ll hear how Tolulope transitioned from hobbyist to professional by investing in his skills, pricing based on value, and creating clear client processes. He shares systems for client on-boarding, contracts, and file delivery that help maintain integrity and reliability. The hosts also discuss why “slow motion is better than no motion,” how networking and signature edits attract premium clients, and why building a team (re-toucher, manager, assistant, lawyer) is essential for scaling. The conversation highlights the broader industry context: as digital transformation opens doors, competition intensifies and creatives must balance artistry with business strategy. Studies show that 36 % of businesses hired freelance designers in the past year and that thriving agencies integrate strategy consulting (81 %), copy writing (77 %) and AI tools to remain relevant. Embracing this mindset will help you build a sustainable, scalable and enjoyable creative career. 🕒 Episode Chapters 0:00 – From hobby to photography business 4:44 – Learning photography through experimentation 8:38 – Valuing myself and my craft 11:22 – Reaching a sustainable salary 15:59 – AI revolutionizes networking efficiency 19:20 – Client experience and workflow process 21:42 – Photo rights and editing process 23:23 – Integrity in client experience 26:32 – Favorite editing & upload tools 30:29 – Talent vs. intangibles balance 33:04 – Vibes matter in creative work 37:31 – Teamwork gets the job done 39:48 – Creative to CEO challenge 44:56 – Embracing growth through discomfort 49:39 – Training & duplication insights 52:03 – Creative to CEO challenge 53:22 – End with self and mantra 🔑 Key Points Value and pricing: Too many designers undercharge for their services, undermining themselves and the industry. Tolu shares how valuing your time, skill and learning lets you attract higher-paying clients and why value‑based pricing beats hourly rates. Business literacy and mindset: In 2025’s digital landscape, creative professionals need business skills to survive. Tolu emphasizes systems—contracts, SOPs, clear communication—and the importance of treating your craft like a business. Industry trends: The creative economy is dynamic and competitive; 36 % of businesses hired freelance designers in the past year, and agencies are adding strategy consulting and copy writing to meet demand. Embracing AI and efficient tools is essential, though 35 % of agencies worry about AI compromising creative quality. Balancing talent with intangibles: Technical skill matters, but so do communication, reliability and positive energy. Building a team and investing in relationships turns good work into great business. 🔗 Links & Resources: Creative to CEO Challenge: https://creativetoceochallenge.com/ – gain clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income. Business Funding: https://creditsavant.io/ – secure funding for your creative business. Creativepreneur Gear: https://whatstheirony.com/ – apparel for the creative entrepreneur. Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at https://mmcbpodcast.com/ for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes. 👥 Connect with Tolulope Facebook: @officialtberrypictures Instagram: @iamtberry Website: tberrypictures.com 👍 Join Our Community Listen to the show: https://feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast/ Website & inquiries: https://mmcbpodcast.com | email: hello@mmcbpodcast.com Follow us: Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness TikTok: @mindingmycreativebusiness We’re Ron & ShySpeaks—two music industry creators marching to the beat of entrepreneurship. Each week we share insights, mistakes, and strategies to help creative professionals build small businesses and scale like CEOs. Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway, like if you found value, and subscribe for more creative entrepreneur tips!

January 26, 20261 hr 2 min

Top Tech Entrepreneur Shares Secrets to Empowering Young Minds

In this podcast episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Shadira Nesmith, co-founder of Stacked Up Academy, who passionately advocates for early exposure of youth to technology and essential skills such as financial literacy and coding. With a wealth of experience in the educational technology sector, Shadira articulates her commitment to bridging the gap for students, ensuring they acquire relevant skills that will empower them in their future endeavors. We explore the innovative initiatives she has introduced, including engaging products designed for young learners, and her vision for the upcoming Stacked Up Con, a conference aimed at immersing children in the world of technology. Through her insights, we aim to highlight the importance of nurturing confidence in both young learners and adult professionals as they navigate the evolving landscape of technology. Join us as we unpack the significance of intentionality, community engagement, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a tech-driven world.Takeaways:The significance of early exposure to technology is paramount for children's future success.Building confidence in students is essential for their development in tech-related fields.Stacked Up Academy provides engaging learning experiences for youth, integrating coding and financial literacy.Creativity in teaching methods, such as nursery rhymes, fosters a deeper understanding of complex terms.Networking and outreach are vital for expanding opportunities within educational programs.Focusing on specific age groups allows for the development of tailored educational materials and experiences.Links referenced in this episode:credit Savant I.Ostackedupacademy.comstackedupcon.comblackgirlscode.comAdditional Links & Resources: • Creative to CEO Challenge: https://creativetoceochallenge.com/ – gain clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income. • Business Funding: https://creditsavant.io/ – secure funding for your creative business. • Creativepreneur Gear: https://whatstheirony.com/ – apparel for the creative entrepreneur. • Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at https://mmcbpodcast.com/ for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes.👥 Connect with Shadeira • Facebook: @StackedUpAcademy • Instagram: @StackedUpAcademy • TikTok: @StackedUpAcademy • Website: StackedUpAcademy.com 👍 Join Our Community • Listen to the show: https://feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast/ • Website & inquiries: https://mmcbpodcast.com/ | hello@mmcbpodcast.com • Follow us: • Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness • Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness • TikTok: @mindingmycreativebusiness We’re Ron & ShySpeaks—two music industry creators marching to the beat of entrepreneurship. Each week we share insights, mistakes, and strategies to help creative professionals build small businesses and scale like CEOs. Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway, like if you found value, and subscribe for more creative entrepreneur tips!

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