Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth and Trending News

Hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky

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197

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — a top-ranked show in Business News where entrepreneurship, creativity, media strategy, and pop culture collide. Whether you are building a business, growing a personal brand, launching a podcast, writing a book, or expanding your influence as a thought leader, this show was built for you. We believe business doesn't have to be boring. The most successful entrepreneurs are always learning, adapting, and evolving — and that means mastering business strategy, branding, marketing, AI tools, podcasting, publishing, and public speaking, while staying locked in on the pop culture moments, entertainment headlines, and media trends shaping the marketplace right now. Why? Because there is business behind everything. From viral moments and major brand moves to celebrity influence and cultural shifts, the biggest business lessons are playing out in real time. We break them down, make them actionable, and help you apply them to your brand and your bottom line. Each episode delivers real conversations, expert guest interviews, and practical frameworks to help you grow revenue, build authority, and expand your reach in today's creator economy. No fluff. No filler. Just the strategies that actually move the needle. What we cover: Business growth and monetization · Branding and authority building · Podcast and media strategy · Public speaking and visibility · AI and emerging tools · Publishing and thought leadership · Pop culture and business trends · Entrepreneurship and mindset · Marketing and content creation · Personal brand development Most of all, we believe in connection, community, and building meaningful relationships. Entrepreneurship can feel isolating — but growth accelerates when you surround yourself with the right people, the right tools, and the right conversations. This show is designed to help you move faster, think bigger, and build smarter. Whether you are a seasoned CEO, a rising entrepreneur, a content creator, or a thought leader ready to own your stage and scale your influence, The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast meets you where you are and challenges you to go further. Ready for an incredible live experience? Join us at Cre8tive Con — the traveling conference where entrepreneurs, creators, and thought leaders come together to learn, connect, and grow. Visit www.cre8tivecon.com to find an event near you. About the hosts: Julie Lokun, JD — Business strategist, podcaster, speaker, and publicity expert. Founder of Dragonfly Effect and co-founder of Mediacasters, Julie helps entrepreneurs amplify their message, increase visibility, and build authority through media, publicity, and strategic brand positioning. Learn more at www.julielokunconsulting.com. Dominick Domasky — Publisher, bestselling author, speaker, and founder of Motivation Champs (www.motivationchamps.com). Dom helps authors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders share powerful stories, build strong brands, and create lasting impact through publishing and media. Together, Julie and Dom bring sharp insights, powerful guests, and unfiltered conversations to help creative entrepreneurs grow — in business, media, and beyond. Join a live event: www.cre8tivecon.com Podcast home: www.cre8tiveconpod.com Inquiries: julie@cre8tivecon.com | dom@cre8tivecon.com

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August 10, 202625 min

Dr. Robert Epstein on Google, Grief, and the Warning He Can't Forget

Dr. Robert Epstein says he was warned he could die for exposing the Search Engine Manipulation Effect. Months later, his wife was killed in a crash police still can't fully explain. IN THIS EPISODE WITH DR. ROBERT EPSTEIN:In Part 2 with Dr. Robert Epstein, Julie Lokun is joined by special co-host Jen Fontanilla, filling in for Dom Domasky, for a conversation that goes somewhere darker than Part 1: the personal cost of being a whistleblower. Epstein shares the warning he says he received after testifying before the U.S. Senate about the Search Engine Manipulation Effect (SEME) — and the devastating loss of his wife, Misti, in a car accident he has publicly said made him question whether it was truly accidental. Jen and Julie sit with the weight of that story and what it means to speak truth to power when power is a trillion-dollar company. This isn't clickbait — it's a firsthand account of what it can cost to blow the whistle on Big Tech. Timestamped chapters: 00:00 — Cold open: "Makes you wonder" 03:40 — Recap: what the Search Engine Manipulation Effect is and why it made Epstein a target 09:15 — The warning Dr. Epstein says he received 17:30 — Misti's story — who she was, not just how she died 25:00 — The night everything changed 33:10 — What the police investigation found — and didn't find 40:00 — Living with uncertainty: grief, suspicion, and moving forward 47:00 — What Dr. Epstein wants entrepreneurs and creators to take from his story 52:15 — Jen Fontanilla's take: what this means for anyone building a platform online Guest bio: Dr. Robert Epstein is Senior Research Psychologist at the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology (AIBRT), the last PhD student trained under B.F. Skinner at Harvard University, and former editor-in-chief of Psychology Today. He testified before the U.S. Senate on the Search Engine Manipulation Effect and has spoken publicly about the threat he says preceded it, as well as the loss of his wife, Misti Vaughn, in 2019. More at drrobertepstein.com. Co-host bio: Jen Fontanilla joins this episode as special co-host, filling in for Dom Domasky. More about Jen and her work at jenfontanilla.com. QUOTES: "I'm not suicidal. Hear that, Google?" "You don't forget a warning like that — even when you want to." "Grief and suspicion can live in the same sentence." Resource links: Dr. Robert Epstein: drrobertepstein.com Julie Lokun, JD: julielokunconsulting.com Jen Fontanilla: jenfontanilla.com Dom Domasky / Motivation Champs: motivationchamps.com Cre8tive Con: cre8tivecon.com Cre8tive Con OTR: cre8tiveconotr.com Dr. Epstein also unpacks his Humanness Test, the tool he built to measure how "human" a person's responses really are — and what that means now that AI can pass for human in blind conversation studies. He points listeners to MyDigitalHygiene.com, home of his Digital Hygiene Inventory, a free assessment that scores your real-world skills for staying safe and private online. Add a chapter marker: 44:30 — The Humanness Test, AI, and why "sounding human" isn't what it used to be 46:00 — MyDigitalHygiene.com: are your digital hygiene habits protecting you? Add to resource links: Humanness Test: howhumanareyou.com Digital Hygiene Inventory: mydigitalhygiene.com What is Dr. Robert Epstein's Digital Hygiene Inventory? The Epstein Digital Hygiene Inventory (EDHI) is a free online questionnaire at MyDigitalHygiene.com that measures 11 competency areas needed to use technology safely and privately. It's available in a one-minute abridged version and a 15-minute full version, both developed through Epstein's American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology (AIBRT). Did Dr. Robert Epstein say he was warned about his safety? Dr. Robert Epstein has publicly stated that after briefing state attorneys general on Google's ability to influence elections, one official told him he could "die in an accident in a few months." He has referenced this warning in connection with his wife's death, though he has also said he does not believe Google or Hillary Clinton were involved. How did Misti Vaughn, Dr. Robert Epstein's wife, die? Misti Dawn Vaughn died in December 2019 after her truck spun out on a wet road in California and collided with a tractor-trailer and an SUV. Investigators found no evidence that drugs or alcohol were a factor, and Epstein has publicly questioned — without confirming — whether the crash was truly accidental. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

August 6, 202628 min

Bar Tips: The Bartender-Turned-Author Who Cracked the Code on Sales Without Selling with Neil Rogers

Bar Tips: The Bartender-Turned-Author Who Cracked the Code on Sales Without Selling The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast | Julie Lokun & Dominick Domasky ft. Neil Rogers Forget the funnels. Forget the scripts. The best sales training on earth might be happening behind a bar top on a Friday night — and Neil Rogers is here to prove it. Neil is the author of Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the Bar — a book Julie calls dog-eared, underlined, and genuinely transformational. In this episode, Julie Lokun and Dominic Domasky sit down with Neil for an unscripted conversation about what decades in hospitality taught him about selling, leading, and connecting — the human way. If you've ever felt like traditional sales advice makes you feel gross, manipulative, or fake — this episode is your reset. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why hospitality principles outperform traditional sales scripts every time How to read people instead of reading a pitch deck The fastest way to build real rapport (hint: it starts with a name) How bartenders master the art of the upsell — without ever feeling pushy Why time management and organization are underrated sales superpowers How to handle difficult customers (and difficult clients) with grace Why every sales skill is actually a life skill in disguise How humility and kindness quietly outperform hustle culture From Behind the Bar to the Boardroom Neil breaks down why bartenders are some of the most naturally gifted sales professionals alive — masters of first impressions, active listening, emotional regulation, and grace under pressure. His philosophy: "We are not in the product business. We are in the hospitality business." Whether you're closing six-figure deals or pouring drinks, the same truth applies — people want to feel seen, heard, and respected. Neil shares real stories from his career that prove trust and loyalty can't be manufactured through tactics. They're built one interaction at a time. A Conversation That Goes Deeper This episode isn't just about sales. Neil opens up about being a father to a non-speaking autistic son, the impact the book Underestimated had on his family, and how spelling-to-communicate practices reshaped the way he thinks about empathy, patience, and truly listening — in business and in life. Featured Book Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the Bar by Neil Rogers Available on Amazon — a must-read for entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and anyone who works with people. Who This Episode Is For Small business owners • Entrepreneurs & founders • Sales professionals • Coaches & consultants • Side hustlers • Creative professionals building sustainable businesses Memorable Quotes "Never avoid an opportunity to keep your mouth shut." "Be humble and be kind." "Sales is not about pressure. It's about presence." Subscribe, Review & Share If this episode hit home, subscribe to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share it with an entrepreneur who needs to hear it. It helps more creatives and founders find the show. Explore more episodes and upcoming events: www.cre8tivecon.com ️ Join us live in Chicago in 2027 at Cre8tive Con! Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

August 3, 202632 min

Search Engine Manipulation: Dr. Robert Epstein on Who Really Controls Your Mind

The Search Engine Manipulation Effect is real, it's measurable, and it's deciding things for you right now — including how people find your business. ABOUT THIS EPISODE OF CREATIVE ENTRPRENEUR PODCAST Dr. Robert Epstein — Harvard-trained psychologist, last PhD student under B.F. Skinner, and former editor-in-chief of Psychology Today — joins Julie Lokun and Jen Fontanilla to break down the Search Engine Manipulation Effect (SEME), the research he presented to the U.S. Senate on how algorithms quietly shift opinions, decisions, and even elections. They connect his findings to a bigger question every creative entrepreneur needs to answer: are you building on rented land, or do you Own Your Ecosystem? This one reframes "the algorithm" from a mystery into a system you can understand — and protect yourself from. Timestamped chapters: 00:00 — Cold open: the number that should scare every entrepreneur 04:12 — Who is Dr. Robert Epstein? From Skinner's lab to Congress 11:30 — What is the Search Engine Manipulation Effect (SEME)? 19:45 — Online manipulation and why most people never notice it 27:00 — What this means for your brand, your platform, your audience 34:15 — Own Your Ecosystem: the antidote to algorithm dependency 41:00 — Rapid-fire: AI, free will, and what entrepreneurs should watch for next 47:30 — Dr. Epstein's advice for creators who feel powerless against Big Tech Guest bio: Dr. Robert Epstein is Senior Research Psychologist at the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology (AIBRT), the last PhD student trained under B.F. Skinner at Harvard University, and the former editor-in-chief of Psychology Today. He is the author of 15 books and more than 250 articles, and his research on the Search Engine Manipulation Effect — published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — has been the subject of testimony before the U.S. Senate. Learn more at drrobertepstein.com. "The scariest manipulation is the one you never see happening." "If you don't own your ecosystem, someone else owns your audience." "Free will online is a lot more fragile than people want to admit." Resource links: Dr. Robert Epstein: drrobertepstein.com Julie Lokun, JD: julielokunconsulting.com Dom Domasky / Motivation Champs: motivationchamps.com Cre8tive Con: cre8tivecon.com Cre8tive Con OTR: cre8tiveconotr.com A special thank you to our guest co-host Jen Fontanilla! www.jenfontanilla.com Jen Fontanilla | Strategic Business Positioning for Web & Graphic Designers To learn more about Jen check out her website_ If this episode made you rethink who's really steering your business, hit follow and share it with one entrepreneur who needs to hear it. Own your ecosystem, don't rent your audience. Julie & Dominick ALL RIGHTS RESERVED TO ROCKWELL: I ALWAYS FEEL LIKE SOMEBODY'S WATCHING ME What is the Search Engine Manipulation Effect (SEME)? The Search Engine Manipulation Effect is Dr. Robert Epstein's research finding that biased search rankings can shift people's opinions and choices without their awareness, because most users trust top search results as neutral. Epstein's studies, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found this effect strong enough to influence election outcomes. Who is Dr. Robert Epstein? Dr. Robert Epstein is a Harvard-trained psychologist, the last PhD student under B.F. Skinner, and the former editor-in-chief of Psychology Today. He is Senior Research Psychologist at the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology and has testified before the U.S. Senate on online manipulation. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 27, 202633 min

How to Monetize a Podcast: Midwest Murder's Jonah Lantto on Live Shows, Sponsors & Owning Your Niche

From Basement to Business: How Jonah Lantto Turned True Crime Into a Podcasting Empire What if your next business breakthrough isn't a marketing funnel — it's a microphone? In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with Jonah Lantto, co-host of Midwest Murder, one of the fastest-growing true crime podcasts in the country. Jonah shares the real, unfiltered story of how a basement side project turned into a full-time podcasting business — one built on live shows, sponsorships, merch, and an audience that trusts him enough to show up in person, city after city. This episode isn't just for true crime fans. It's a masterclass in podcast monetization, audience-building, and turning content into a real business vertical. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How Jonah went from a basement podcast to selling out live true crime shows across the Midwest The exact moment he realized podcasting could become a full-time business Why niching down (not chasing big-name stories like Gacy or Dahmer) became Midwest Murder's competitive advantage How to "own your ecosystem" by building live events, email lists, and merch instead of relying on one platform The five-year consistency rule that took Midwest Murder from North Dakota to Nashville Beginner podcasting tips: equipment, editing software (Audacity), short-form video repurposing, and landing dream guests Why every podcaster needs a content plan and episode arc before hitting record Guest Spotlight: Jonah Lantto Jonah Lantto is a true crime writer, live storyteller, podcast host, and wedding officiant based in the Midwest — available everywhere the story takes him. He's the co-host of Midwest Murder, a true crime podcast known for uncovering forgotten regional cases and turning them into sold-out live storytelling events across the Midwest and beyond. Website: jonahlantto.com Listen to Midwest Murder: Apple Podcasts Meet Your Hosts Julie Lokun, JD — Media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant. Founder of Dragonfly Cre8tions LLC and co-founder of The Mediacasters, Julie helps entrepreneurs build authority through podcasting, publicity, and strategic brand positioning. Her shows rank in the top 0.05% globally on Listen Notes and top 5 on Apple Podcasts weekly. julielokunconsulting.com Dominick Domasky — Bestselling author, publisher, and founder of Motivation Champs Publishing. Co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and a tireless champion for the creative entrepreneurship movement. motivationchamps.com Join Us Live Ready to build your own creative business? Join Julie and Dom at Cre8tive Con, the national traveling entrepreneurship conference where podcasters, creators, and business builders come together to learn, connect, and grow. ️ cre8tivecon.com Rate, Review & Subscribe If this episode inspired you to turn your voice into a business, please rate, review, and share The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — it's the best way to help more entrepreneurs find the show. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 20, 202635 min

Justin Gold of Justin's Peanut Butter: From Waiting Tables to a $281 Million Empire

Justin's Peanut Butter founder Justin Gold joins The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast to reveal how a food processor, a Boulder, Colorado kitchen, and a $281 million exit to a Fortune 500 company all started with one mountain bike ride. Hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky dig into risk-taking, raising investor capital, letting go as a founder, and why "no" just means "not now." Episode Overview In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, co-hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with longtime friend and natural food industry pioneer Justin Gold, founder of Justin's Peanut Butter. Justin shares the real story behind building a nut butter brand from scratch — no ChatGPT, no roadmap, no investors — into a company acquired by a Fortune 500 giant, and why he later stepped back in to help guide it forward. What You'll Learn in This Episode The origin story: How waiting tables in Boulder, Colorado led to the creation of Justin's Peanut Butter Why "luck" isn't the full story: Justin's honest take on timing, momentum, and community Raising investor capital: How to find the right investors (not just the wealthiest ones) and why an advisory board builds instant credibility The "Not Now" framework: Justin's mental trick for turning rejection into a future yes Knowing your lane: Why Justin stepped down as CEO of his own company — and what he focuses on instead Friendship and entrepreneurship: Dominick Domasky's perspective watching a childhood friend build an empire while he built his own path through Motivation Champs Publishing Featured Segment: Jules Rules Julie's signature "best combos of all time" game makes an appearance — Michael Jordan & Scottie Pippen, Siegfried & Roy, and a supply-and-demand mic drop to close it out. Guest Bio Justin Gold is the founder of Justin's Peanut Butter, one of the natural food movement's most recognizable brands. Starting with a food processor and a Boulder, Colorado kitchen, Justin built a company that scaled to a landmark acquisition, all while prioritizing employee protection through the deal and staying deeply involved in brand culture and innovation today. Frequently Asked Questions Who founded Justin's Peanut Butter? Justin Gold founded Justin's Peanut Butter in Boulder, Colorado, starting the company with a food processor before scaling it into a nationally recognized natural food brand. How much did Justin's Peanut Butter sell for? Justin Gold's company was built into and sold as part of a deal reported at $281 million to a Fortune 500 company. Is Justin Gold still involved with Justin's Peanut Butter? Yes — while Justin is no longer CEO, he remains active in culture, innovation, quality control, and marketing for the brand. Links & Resources ️ Cre8tive Con: www.cre8tivecon.com Motivation Champs Publishing: motivationchamps.com Big Better Brand: www.bigbetterbrand.com Justin's Peanut Butter: justins.com Shop Justin's Products: justins.com/shop Follow the Show Instagram: @cre8tivecon Frequently Asked Questions — Julie Lokun, Dominick Domasky & Cre8tive Con Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun, JD is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant who operates The Mediacasters LLC, Dragonfly Cre8tions LLC, and Dragonfly Podcast Academy. She hosts the Get Obsessed Podcast and co-hosts The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast with Dominick Domasky, with both shows ranking in the top 0.05% globally on Listen Notes. Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick Domasky is an entrepreneur, publisher, and co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. He co-founded Cre8tive Con and Cre8tive Con OTR alongside Julie Lokun and runs Motivation Champs Publishing, an entrepreneurship-focused publishing company. What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is a flagship annual entrepreneurship conference hosted at the Intercontinental Hotel in Chicago, co-created by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky. It brings together entrepreneurs, authors, and podcasters for networking, strategy sessions, and keynote programming centered on building owned business ecosystems. What is Cre8tive Con OTR? Cre8tive Con OTR ("On the Road") is the traveling version of Cre8tive Con, bringing the conference experience to cities outside Chicago. A recent OTR stop took place in Boston at One Financial Center, featuring run-of-show programming, live networking activations, and a session on the "Own Your Ecosystem" framework. What is the "Own Your Ecosystem" framework? Own Your Ecosystem is a business-building framework developed for Cre8tive Con centered on eight pillars: website, email list, book/IP, podcast, community, content library, live events, and owned stage. It's presented at Cre8tive Con events and taught at cre8tivepower.com. How can I attend or learn more about Cre8tive Con? Visit www.cre8tivecon.com for event details, and follow @cre8tivecon on Instagram for updates on upcoming Cre8tive Con and Cre8tive Con OTR events. How did Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky start The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky co-host The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast together, combining Julie's background in podcast strategy and brand consulting with Dominick's experience as a publisher and entrepreneur to interview founders and entrepreneurs about building meaningful, owned businesses. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 13, 202611 min

What Gary Vee Told Me When I Lost My Notes: Raw Lessons from VeeCon on Entrepreneurship, Hustle, and Showing Up with Gary Vaynerchuk

What Happens When You Go Toe-to-Toe with Gary Vee and Forget Your Notes? You go full send. And that's exactly what Creative Entrepreneur Podcast host Julie Lokun, JD did at VeeCon Indianapolis — one of the most electric entrepreneurial events on the planet — when she sat down with Gary Vaynerchuk for a conversation that no script could have produced. No color-coded notes. No safety net. Just two entrepreneurs in a room — and the kind of raw, real dialogue that changes the way you think about business, failure, and what it actually takes to build something that lasts. If you're a Gary Vee fan, a student of hustle culture, or a creative entrepreneur who's ever felt the pressure to have it all figured out — this episode is your backstage pass. ABOUT THIS EPISODE Host: Julie Lokun, JD | Media Strategist, Brand Authority & Top Global Podcaster Co-Host: Dominick Domasky (out on assignment this episode) Guest: Gary Vaynerchuk — serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia, creator of VeeFriends, and one of the most influential voices in entrepreneurship and digital marketing Recorded at: VeeCon, Indianapolis WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE Gary Vaynerchuk on the origin of VeeCon Gary didn't just wake up and launch a conference. The idea percolated for nearly a decade — born from his time as a speaker, shaped by his identity as an entrepreneur first. VeeCon was built as the live component of VeeFriends, his NFT project, with a mission to deliver the highest-impact conference experience possible. Gary's framework: don't focus on exceeding expectations. Focus on executing. The female CMO panel Gary couldn't wait to watch Gary spotlighted a powerhouse panel featuring Carla Hassan, Carolyn Tastad, Pam Kaufman, and Gale Tifford — titans of marketing and real-world friends — calling it a salon shop talk mixed with heavy business content. If you follow marketing, brand strategy, or women in leadership, this is the conversation inside the conversation. Why Gary Vee is obsessed with the 1980s It's not nostalgia for nostalgia's sake. Gary grew up in the '80s, was shaped by that era's pop culture in a deeply personal way — and he'll tell you straight: the decade we're living in right now is his least favorite, and not because of cynicism. It's because it's not finished yet. Three more years to get it going, he says. The one piece of advice Gary gives every new entrepreneur "The game is based on self-awareness and kindness to oneself." Don't beat yourself up for every miss. Losing is a feature, not a bug. Fall in love with the music — meaning the process, the game, the grind itself — and stop judging yourself against an outcome. This is the framework that built an empire. Gary Vee's only real regret He's made four mistakes today (his words), but his deepest regret? Candor. Specifically, the lack of it earlier in his career — the employees he didn't give honest feedback to, the exits he fumbled in his 20s and 30s because he didn't have the courage to be direct. This isn't the Gary Vee you see in the clips. This is the real one. What Gary is most proud of — and what nobody knows The closer you get to Gary's inner circle, the more real it gets. He's heard the question a thousand times: "What's Gary really like?" His answer: more genuine than his biggest fans imagine — and more authentic than his biggest critics can stomach. The thing he's most proud of isn't a business metric. It's that the people closest to him believe. KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS Execute over expectations. Gary doesn't set goals to exceed — he sets a focus to make things great. Execution is the only metric that matters. Self-awareness is your most valuable entrepreneurial asset. Know your strengths, own your weak spots (Gary admits candor is still one of his), and keep building. Losing is part of the game — fall in love with it. The most successful entrepreneurs don't fear failure. They factor it in. Your inner circle is your truth test. The people closest to you will tell you what's real. Build a life and a business where those reports are ones you're proud of. Forgetting your notes might be the best thing you ever do. Julie Lokun is living proof. ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Julie Lokun, JD is a media strategist, brand authority, and top global podcaster whose shows rank in the top 0.1% globally on Listen Notes and top 5 on Apple Podcasts weekly. She is the co-founder of Dragonfly Cre8tions LLC, the force behind Dragonfly Podcasting, Dragonfly Podcast Academy, and Dragonfly Podcast Consulting. Julie sits at the intersection of media, brand strategy, and entrepreneurship — and she gets in rooms with the people who are actually building. Connect with Julie: www.julielokunconsulting.com Dominick Domasky is a bestselling author, speaker, and co-host of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. A tireless champion for the creative entrepreneurship movement, Dominick brings the energy, the community, and the conviction that business does not have to be boring. Connect with Dominick: www.motivationchamps.com ️ ABOUT THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR PODCAST The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is where real entrepreneurs, bold thinkers, and creative disruptors come to build something extraordinary — out loud. Hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, this show ranks in the top 0.1% globally and consistently hits top 5 on Apple Podcasts. Every episode is proof that you don't need a perfect plan — you need the right conversation. Listen & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth and Trending News JOIN US LIVE — CRE8TIVE CON Ready to be in the room where entrepreneurship happens in real life? Cre8tive Con is the national traveling entrepreneurship conference series co-founded by Julie Lokun and her team — bringing together creative entrepreneurs, brand builders, podcast hosts, and business visionaries for an experience Gary Vee would approve of. Cre8tive Con Boston July 13, 2026 One Financial Center, Boston, MA This is your VeeCon moment. Come prepared to go full send. ️ Tickets & Info: www.cre8tivecon.com Join the Cre8tive Con Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cre8tivecon RESOURCES MENTIONED & LINKS VeeCon — garyvaynerchuk.com/veefriends Gary Vaynerchuk — garyvaynerchuk.com | @garyvee on all platforms VeeFriends — veefriends.com Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts — Listen Here Julie Lokun — www.julielokunconsulting.com Dominick Domasky — www.motivationchamps.com Dragonfly Podcasting — www.dragonflypodcasting.co Cre8tive Con Boston, July 13, 2026 — www.cre8tivecon.com Cre8tive Con Facebook Community — https://www.facebook.com/groups/cre8tivecon SHARE THIS EPISODE If this conversation lit a fire in you — share it. Tag someone who needs to hear that losing your notes is sometimes the bravest thing you can do. Leave a review. Because this is how we get voices like Gary Vee's into ears that are ready to do the work. Tag us: @julielokun | @dominickdomasky | #CreativeEntrepreneurPodcast #GaryVee #VeeCon #CreativeEntrepreneur #Cre8tiveCon #Entrepreneurship #PodcastLife The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — We don't just talk. We build something extraordinary. Because business does not have to be boring. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 6, 202630 min

How The Brits and Americans are Celebrating 250 Years of Business

WHAT IS OUR FAVORITE CRM? KEAP! GET ORGANIZED AND AUTOMATE YOUR BUSINESS WITH KEAP www.keap.com/cre8tive LEARN ABOUT BOBBY LANE OF FACTOTUM Are you running a business but struggling to keep up with the "back-office" chaos? You aren't alone. Many entrepreneurs excel at their craft but get bogged down by the very systems meant to support them. In this episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Dom and Julie sit down with Bobby Lane, CEO of Factotum, to discuss how to bridge the gap between big ideas and smart execution. Bobby, a seasoned strategist from across the pond, is rewriting the rules of how business gets done in the U.S. From navigating the "Big Pond" transition to the importance of building a business based on trust and relationships, Bobby shares the "no-fluff" secrets to scaling a smarter company. Inside the Episode: Building a Business in the Gaps What is a "Factotum"? Bobby breaks down the Latin origins of the name—meaning "do the whole thing"—and how his company provides multidisciplinary outsourcing for the back-office gaps every small business faces. The UK vs. US Business Mindset: Why the pace of change in America is an entrepreneur's playground, and how Bobby combined British strategy with an American leadership team to conquer the market. Execution Over Advice: In a world of "fractional consultants," Factotum focuses on actually doing the work—from accounting and HR to marketing and recruitment. When to Hire Help: Bobby reveals why you should surround yourself with people cleverer than you before the four o’clock panic sets in. Jules’ Rules (British Edition): A fun, high-stakes debate on who does it better: Tea or Coffee? James Bond or Marvel? (Spoiler: Bobby might be more Americanized than he thinks!) Key Takeaways for Creative Entrepreneurs Check for Need: Before launching a niche business, ask: "Does someone actually need this solution?" Surround Yourself with Experts: Don't be afraid to hire people who challenge you and handle the details you hate. Relationships are Strategy: Bobby explains why he builds his business through "friends and family" connections spanning 30 years—trust is the ultimate cultural fit. Automate or Outsource: If you’re still signing contracts on the side of the road with a pen and paper, it’s time to engineer a better system. Connect with Bobby Lane & Factotum Ready to stop chasing tasks and start putting your growth on autopilot? Website: www.factotum.com LinkedIn: Connect with Bobby Lane Special Offer from Our Sponsor: Keap Stop losing leads in the shuffle. Keap is the leading sales and marketing automation platform designed specifically for small businesses. Capture leads, automate your follow-ups, and build stronger relationships without the manual grunt work. Get Started: keap.com/creative Support the Show If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, subscribe, and share it with a fellow visionary who is ready to build something smarter. "The best businesses aren't just built, they're engineered." The Podcast & Media Where can I listen to the latest episodes? The Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast for Business Growth, Strategy, and Monetization is available on all major platforms. It features high-level interviews with experts like Jim Kwik and David Meltzer. Apple Podcasts: Listen here Spotify: Search for "Creative Entrepreneur Julie Lokun" Official Website: CreativeEntrepreneurPod.com Who are the main hosts? The show is hosted by Julie Lokun, JD (a business coach and "legal eagle") and Dominick Domasky (founder of Motivation Champs). They often collaborate with other industry leaders like Lauren Erickson and Bobby Lane from Factotum. ️ Tools & Business Growth What is the "Follow-Up Fortune" link? The show heavily emphasizes the power of automation to prevent leads from going cold. They recommend Keap (formerly Infusionsoft) for small business CRM and marketing automation. Keap Trial/Promo: You can often find their specific partner link in the show notes of recent episodes, or visit Keap.com/cre8tive to explore their "Conquer the Chaos" resources. How do I connect with the guests (like Bobby Lane)? If you are looking for the outsourced business services (HR, IT, Accounting) mentioned by guest Bobby Lane, you can find his firm at Factotum. Website: Factotum.org.uk Community & Events What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is the flagship live networking conference for the brand. The 2026 event recently took place in Chicago, focusing on "Human-First" business growth and moving beyond digital-only connections. Event Info: Cre8tiveCon.com Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 29, 202627 min

Pitch Like a Pro: Forbes Riley on Sales, Networking, and Business Growth

In this powerful episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Dominick Domasky sits down with legendary entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and sales powerhouse Forbes Riley for a conversation every entrepreneur, author, speaker, and business owner needs to hear. With more than $2.5 billion in product sales, over 197 infomercials, multiple bestselling books, and decades of experience in media and business, Forbes has built a career around one simple truth: Life is a pitch. From networking events to podcasts, from sales calls to social media DMs, every interaction is an opportunity to connect, communicate, and create momentum. This episode dives deep into what makes a great pitch, why so many people get it wrong, and how mastering communication can transform your business and your life. Together, Dom and Forbes unpack: • Why pitching is not about selling but about connection • How to avoid sounding salesy or scripted • Why authenticity and confidence matter more than perfection • The power of tailoring your pitch to the person in front of you • How to approach high-level opportunities with clarity and confidence • Why practice creates profit Forbes shares powerful stories from her journey, including working with icons like Kim Kardashian, Mario Lopez, Richard Simmons, Serena Williams, Grant Cardone, and Fabio, while revealing how one great pitch has repeatedly changed the trajectory of her career. As founder of Motivation Champs Media, Dominick brings a unique perspective as a publisher, storyteller, and brand builder who has helped countless authors transform stories into books, businesses, and opportunities. His message has remained consistent for years: your story matters, and learning how to communicate that story effectively can change everything. Co-host Julie Lokun was out preparing for the upcoming Cre8tive Con OTR Boston 2026, but her influence is felt throughout this episode. As a media strategist, publicist, podcast expert, and co-founder of Cre8tive Con, Julie has long championed helping entrepreneurs build visibility, authority, and real business growth through media and meaningful connection. Key Takeaway: The best entrepreneurs are not just better at selling. They are better at communicating. They know how to connect. They know how to create trust. And they know how to clearly articulate value. Connect + Take Action Follow The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Leave a review and tell us what you're building Join the Cre8tive Con community and get your ticket to the next live event Connect with Julie Lokun: Get Obsessed Podcast Connect with Dominick Domasky and his publishing work: Motivation Champs Media Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 22, 202627 min

How Social Media is Killing Your Business Plan with Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky

What if Instagram disappeared tomorrow? What if Facebook changed the algorithm — again — and your reach dropped to zero overnight? For millions of entrepreneurs, that's not a hypothetical. It's already happening. In this high-energy, no-fluff episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky deliver a wake-up call every entrepreneur needs to hear: social media is not a business strategy — it's borrowed land. And if you're building your brand exclusively on rented platforms, you're one algorithm update away from losing everything you've worked for. REACH OUT TO JULIE AND DOM- www.creativeentrepreneurpod.com and www.cre8tivecon.com Julie and Dom break down what it actually means to own your ecosystem — and give you the concrete, actionable framework to start doing it this week. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why social media is a rental agreement, not a business plan — and what to do instead The shocking truth about organic reach in 2025 (Instagram: 5–7% of your own followers; Facebook: as low as 1–2%) The 7 pillars of owning your ecosystem: website, email list, podcast, book, community, live events, and your own stage How the RSS feed works — and why your podcast content is truly yours forever Why your website is your most important digital real estate in the age of AI and deepfakes How to turn social media from your strategy into your megaphone Why books are still the ultimate credibility asset — and how to use one to unlock speaking, coaching, and media opportunities How Cre8tive Con OTR was built from community demand — and why live events are a business moat The SBA principle that proves: if you only have one customer (or one platform), you don't have a business How to reverse engineer your business from the problem you solve, not the platform you post on Key Quotes "Posting on social media is not a business strategy. It's a rental agreement — because you do not own the building." — Julie Lokun "You're either the product or you're getting paid. Until you own your own ecosystem, you're playing their game." — Dominick Domasky "Social media is the door. Your ecosystem is the house." — Julie Lokun "Use it. Don't let it use you." — Dominick Domasky "The entrepreneurs who are going to win this next decade are writing books, launching podcasts, building email lists, and creating the rooms where they make the rules." — Julie Lokun ️ Your Homework This Week Pick one thing that moves you off rented land and onto something you own: Write your first chapter Start your email list Record your first podcast episode Plan your first live event or community meetup Build or update your website with an opt-in You don't have to build it all today. You just have to start. Resources + Tools Mentioned Meetup.com — community building + email list growth Mighty Networks / Skool — community platforms you control RSS Feed / Podcast Syndication — own your audio content across all directories Stripe — sell directly from your own website Thryv — proud sponsor of Cre8tive Con OTR Cre8tive Con OTR — Boston | July 13 | One Financial Center Who This Episode Is For: This episode is essential listening for coaches, consultants, authors, speakers, and service-based entrepreneurs who are spending the majority of their time and energy on social media content — and wondering why their business isn't scaling. If you've ever felt at the mercy of an algorithm, this is your roadmap out. Connect + Take Action Follow The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Leave a review and tell us what you're building Join the Cre8tive Con community and get your ticket to the next live event Connect with Julie Lokun at getobsessedpod.com Connect with Dominick Domasky and his publishing work www.motivatonchamps.com Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 19, 202625 min

From a Cult to An Author: How Entrepreneurs Use Storytelling to Get on Stages and Get Paid

JOIN US ON THE ROAD AND MEET US LIVE! www.cre8tiveconotr.com What if the story you've been hiding is actually the thing that builds your authority, fills your calendar, and grows your business? On this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun, JD (founder of Cre8tive Con) and Dominick Domasky (CEO of Media Champs Publishing, COO of Cre8tive Con) sit down with Porsche Mysticque Steele — award-winning book coach, TEDx speaker, and independent publishing strategist — for a conversation that is equal parts raw and tactical. Porsche doesn't just teach entrepreneurs how to write books. She lived the proof. Books saved her life. Now she helps founders, executives, coaches, and speakers across Chicago and the United States turn their lived experience into published authority and paid stages. Connect with Porsche Mysticque Steele → porschesteele.com What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why your personal story is your most underleveraged business asset — and how to architect it for maximum impact How publishing a book positions entrepreneurs as the go-to expert in crowded, competitive markets The concept of story architecture — the framework Porsche uses to shape both books and keynote talks that convert How the process of writing a book transforms the author before the first copy is ever sold The real reason strategic networking (not transactional pitching) is what actually lands speaking opportunities How to turn pain into profit — ethically, powerfully, and without exploiting your own story Why books remain one of the highest-ROI credibility tools for business owners and thought leaders About the Guest: Porsche Mysticque Steele is an award-winning book coach, TEDx speaker, and independent publishing expert who works with entrepreneurs, speakers, and executives to transform personal stories into published books, keynote platforms, and lasting authority. She works with clients in Chicago and nationwide. porschesteele.com About The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast: Hosted by Julie Lokun, JD and Dominick Domasky, The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is built for founders, creatives, and business leaders who are ready to amplify their voice, build their brand, and stop playing small. This podcast is powered by the team behind Cre8tive Con — a traveling entrepreneurship conference designed to connect and elevate the next generation of bold business owners. FAQs What is The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is hosted by Julie Lokun, JD (julielokunconsulting.com | bigbetterbrand.com) and Dominick Domasky (motivationchamps.com) — a podcast built for founders, creatives, and business leaders ready to amplify their voice, build authority, and grow a brand that actually means something. Powered by the Cre8tive Con community. Who hosts The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Julie Lokun, JD is a communications strategist, attorney, entrepreneur, and founder of Cre8tive Con. Learn more at julielokunconsulting.com and bigbetterbrand.com. Dominick Domasky is CEO of Motivation Champs and a publisher and brand strategist — connect with him at motivationchamps.com. Together they bring a powerhouse blend of legal, media, and publishing expertise to every episode. What will entrepreneurs learn from this episode? Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky guide a conversation that delivers real frameworks — how to leverage storytelling and book publishing to build credibility, land speaking engagements, and grow a personal brand that opens doors in competitive markets. Why should entrepreneurs consider writing a book? As Dominick Domasky knows firsthand from the publishing world, a book establishes you as the definitive expert in your field, differentiates you in crowded markets, and attracts speaking stages, media features, and high-value clients that other marketing strategies simply can't match. How does Cre8tive Con support entrepreneurs? Cre8tive Con, co-founded by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, is a traveling entrepreneurship conference that amplifies founder voices, elevates bold ideas, and creates meaningful connections between business leaders, creatives, and industry experts — live and in person. What is story architecture and how does it apply to entrepreneurs in Chicago? Story architecture is a strategic approach to shaping personal experiences into compelling narratives that support branding, speaking, and publishing. Chicago entrepreneurs use story architecture to create books and talks that resonate locally and nationally. How can Chicago entrepreneurs get booked on speaking stages? Chicago entrepreneurs can get booked on stages by combining a clear message, a published book, and strong relationships within entrepreneurial communities, conferences, and events like Cre8tive Con. Is The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast relevant beyond Chicago? Yes. While hosted by a Chicago-based team, The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast reaches entrepreneurs, authors, and speakers nationwide and internationally through major podcast platforms. How can business owners connect with Porsche Mysticque Steele after this episode? Business owners can connect with Porsche Mysticque Steele through the links provided in the episode show notes to explore book coaching, publishing strategy, and speaking development services. Who should listen to this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? This episode is ideal for entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants, authors, and speakers—especially those in Chicago—who want to turn their story into a credibility-building business asset. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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