Studio Sherpas Podcast

Chad Brown shares his journey from running a "successful" but personally destructive film business to completely redesigning his work to serve his life, offering powerful insights about the specific reflection processes that can help video professionals build profitable businesses without sacrificing what matters most. Key Takeaways The results in your life reveal the truth about your priorities - if you say family is important but your calendar and bank account tell a different story, you're living a lie Get extremely specific about what you want (not just "more time off" but when, where, how long, with whom) because vague goals prevent you from taking real action Your business doesn't have to look any particular way to be successful - question industry norms and design a model that actually serves your life priorities About Chad Brown Chad Brown is a scaling strategist and coach. He founded a media production studio called Shade Tree Films in 2008 that has serviced global companies such as Volkswagen, Tar

Ryan opens up about his nine-year journey of building the wrong kind of video business and his recent pivot toward creating something sellable. He shares candid insights about hitting seven figures, the challenges since 2020, and why he's now focused on packages over custom work while addressing a filmmaker's concerns about AI taking over the industry. Key Takeaways Building a business that can run without you creates more freedom than being the indispensable creative at the center of everything Package-based services with predictable pricing are more scalable and sellable than endless custom projects Position yourself as a strategic partner who offers workshops and thinking partnership, not just shooting and editing services AI won't replace filmmakers who differentiate themselves through strategy, storytelling, and client partnership rather than just technical execution In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:12] 10xFILMMAKER [04:46] New Goals for a New Season [14:05] Adjusting Your Direction [1

Liz Wilcox shares why every video professional needs an email list (even if they're just starting out) and provides practical, easy-to-implement strategies for using email marketing to create more predictable income without feeling salesy or spending hours crafting the perfect message. Key Takeaways Your email list is your "potential client list" - people don't buy when you sell, they buy when they're ready, and email keeps you top of mind until that moment Start with a simple lead magnet (like "5 Red Flags When Hiring a Videographer") that solves a specific problem for your ideal clients Be your authentic self in emails - even corporate clients appreciate working with real humans who show personality rather than stuffy, formal messaging Ask questions and get feedback from your email subscribers to help craft services and packages they actually want instead of guessing what might sell About Liz Wilcox The Fresh Princess of Email Marketing, Liz Wilcox is an Email Strategist and Keynote Speaker showing small

Pablo Gonzalez shares his journey from construction sales to Silicon Valley tech evangelist and reveals how video professionals can create more predictable income by solving "Monday morning problems," stacking value beyond just delivering footage, and packaging their services as experiences rather than products. Key Takeaways Create offers that solve immediate business problems first (like testimonial videos) before trying to sell big vision projects - this builds trust that lets you eventually sell those larger projects Package your video services as experiences rather than products - such as turning client testimonial videos into a VIP day that makes both your client and their customers feel special Look for ways to "stack value" by providing additional deliverables that make it easier for clients to use and share their videos (like providing captions, email copy, and suggested posting strategies) Find a specific niche to serve repeatedly - this creates insights that lead to better offers, more referrals,

Mark Lebrun shares how he built a thriving YouTube channel that replaced his corporate income and now discusses strategies for video production businesses to leverage YouTube, create targeted offers, and use AI to work more efficiently while maintaining authentic connections with clients. Key Takeaways Create YouTube content that addresses specific pain points your ideal clients face, then naturally incorporate offers that solve those problems Instead of sending everyone to your homepage, build targeted landing pages for different niches and track which ones convert best • Experiment with lower-priced offers (like a $19 download or $1,000 virtual coaching session) to serve people who aren't ready for your premium services Use AI strategically for SEO optimization, content planning, and business strategy while maintaining your human touch for client relationships About Mark Lebrun Mark Lebrun is a Digital Influencer and Strategist, and the founder of Digital Influencer Co. — a creative powerhouse helping fai

In this eye-opening conversation, Graham Cochrane reveals how he built a $2 million business working just 5 hours a week by identifying the 20% of activities that drive 80% of results, and shares his four-part framework for designing a sustainable, energizing business week. Key Takeaways Most activities in your business don't generate revenue – identify the 20% that do and focus there while eliminating, automating, or delegating the rest Perfectionism keeps you from serving clients effectively – they care more about getting results faster than your video being a 10/10 • Design your week with four key elements: recharge time, relationship time, rainmaker time (revenue-generating activities), and reflection time "Do more of what is working" – analyze what's actually driving results in your business and double down on those specific activities About Graham Cochrane Graham Cochrane is a highly acclaimed entrepreneur, USA Today bestselling author, and keynote speaker with a track record of building successful on

Sam Hanson shares his journey from leaving a 10-year job to starting his own motion design business that's doubled every month, offering insights on finding your worth as a creative and the importance of genuinely helping clients rather than just focusing on billing hours. Key Takeaways Understand your value by asking clients what solving their problems is worth to them - don't just set an hourly rate based on what you think you deserve Being helpful, cheerful and consistent creates relationships that lead to more work - Sam's biggest clients keep giving him more projects because he makes their lives easier Having a community of supportive peers (like a mastermind group) provides the encouragement and accountability needed to take risks and grow your business About Sam Hanson Sam Hanson is a motion designer and founder of Unlidded Co., focused on helping brands repurpose existing content and create motion graphics that bridge the gap between static design and video. His work helps build a cohesive, consiste

In this candid conversation, former co-host Matt Davis shares his journey launching a legacy film business while reflecting on how sobriety and community support helped him overcome perfectionism and finally pursue his passion project after years of hesitation. Key Takeaways Don't wait for everything to be perfect before launching something new – get feedback from past clients and build as you go Being part of a supportive community that holds you accountable is crucial for pushing through self-doubt and taking action Authenticity in your work comes from being authentic in your own life – facing personal struggles directly can unlock your creative potential About Matt Davis Matt Davis is the founder and creative director of Life Stage Films and Harvest Filmworks, with nearly two decades of experience crafting compelling visual stories. Starting with weddings and expanding into corporate production, Matt has filmed over a thousand events worldwide. A former co-host of this podcast, he's now launching legacy

In this episode, Ryan talks with Adam McChesney about his journey from medical device sales to building two seven-figure digital marketing businesses. Adam shares valuable insights about personal branding, the importance of creating authentic content, and specific digital marketing strategies for service-based businesses that want to grow. Key Takeaways Get clear on what YOU want in your business rather than building what others think you should Build personal brand authenticity by sharing your process and behind-the-scenes content instead of just finished results Focus your website content on specific location/industry combinations to boost your SEO performance instead of generic blog posts About Adam Chesney Adam McChesney is a serial entrepreneur based in St. Louis, MO. Originally a medical device sales rep, he transitioned into entrepreneurship full-time in the midst of the pandemic in July 2020.  Since going out on his own, Adam has leveraged his skillset of personal branding & digital marketing to

Mignon Francois, founder of The Cupcake Collection and self-proclaimed "Director of Joy," shares her incredible journey from a struggling mom who couldn't pay her electric bill to building a destination bakery that ships nationwide. She discusses the power of vision, the importance of joy even during trials, and why storytellers have such an important responsibility. Key Takeaways Nothing exists apart from words - your vision and what you speak about your business has the power to create your future When building a business, your vision takes your whole life to achieve, your mission is the vehicle to get there, and your values are the luggage you pack for the journey It's okay to feel scared in your business journey - "if it doesn't make you afraid, then it's not big enough" Look for joy even in difficult times - choose to become better, not bitter About Mignon Francois Mignon François is a #1 national best-selling author, entrepreneur and renowned baker who has inspired millions on her journey of going fro

Lindsay Tjepkema, founder of Human Brands Win, shares her expertise on how video professionals can differentiate themselves through authentic storytelling and relationship building. She provides practical strategies for sharing your unique value without feeling "braggy" and explains why human connection remains your biggest competitive advantage in an AI world. Key Takeaways Your story isn't about bragging - it's about connecting with clients who share your values and helping them understand how you can solve their problems If you're uncomfortable telling your own story, let your clients tell it through conversations about their experience working with you LinkedIn and in-person events remain powerful channels for relationship building when you focus on adding value rather than selling Being intentional about your brand means answering key questions: Who do you serve? Why do you do this work? How are you helping people? About Lindsay Tjepkema Lindsay spent two decades in global B2B marketing leadership and

Mark Bone and Michael Del Monte, Founders of Art of Documentary, share their journey from running track to becoming successful filmmakers and educators. They dive deep into how filmmakers can create more value, communicate better with clients, and balance passion projects with strategic business decisions in today's changing industry. Key Takeaways Focus on what a video will DO for a client, not just how it will LOOK - clients care about results and problems solved, not your gear Create multiple assets from a single project to meet different client needs - the two-minute anthem video AND the 30-second hard-selling cutdown The right kind of "free work" early in your career can be strategic marketing that leads to huge opportunities later Finding mentors and community is essential for growth and sustainability in this industry About Michael Del Monte Michael Del Monte is a Canadian documentary filmmaker known for telling stories of overlooked individuals. With degrees in Philosophy and Theology, he’s directed

Johnny Mendez shares the raw story of how his successful video production company hit rock bottom financially in December 2017, and the seven-year journey of rebuilding with better systems, mindset, and business foundations. He reveals how this painful experience transformed not just his company but his entire approach to life, work, and personal growth. Key Takeaways The shift from being "filmmakers who had a business" to "business owners who provide filmmaking services" is crucial for long-term sustainability Managing your finances properly isn't optional - even successful companies with great clients can collapse without proper cash flow management Personal growth and development are just as important as business skills - "you don't achieve your goals, you grow into them" Joining communities of like-minded professionals provides both support during difficult times and accelerates your learning and growth About Johnny Mendez Johnny is the co-owner of Hen House Media, an award-winning video production comp

Carter Hogan shares his journey from filmmaker to software founder and reveals why most video professionals don't actually have a lead generation problem - they have a lead nurturing problem. He breaks down practical ways to automate the "low-value activities" in your business so you can focus on the creative work that matters most. Key Takeaways Your leads need 7-8 touchpoints before they'll trust you enough to hire you - if you're not consistently staying in touch, you're leaving money on the table A simple monthly newsletter highlighting recent projects and how they solved client problems is the easiest way to nurture leads effectively Automating payment processes and follow-ups not only saves time but prevents thousands in unpaid invoices from slipping through the cracks Presenting a professional front through automated reminders and follow-ups makes clients feel like you have a full team, even if you're a solo operator About Carter Hogan Carter Hocan is the Co-founder and Owner of Vidlead, a video prod

Jason Raitz shares his journey from public speaker to communication coach and reveals how seemingly small changes in how we speak with (not at) people can dramatically impact trust, relationships, and revenue. Through powerful stories and practical advice, Jason shows how better communication isn't just nice to have - it's essential for business growth and client retention. Key Takeaways: Most leaders communicate out of fear, manipulation, or force for short-term results - but this approach eventually drives away team members and clients   Effective communication follows the 20/80 principle: be fully present (10%), ask exceptional questions (10%), and genuinely listen (80%)  Your listening skills and communication effectiveness could be costing you $80,000-$100,000 a year and 8 hours of productivity every week  When you speak "with" people rather than "at" them, you'll build trust that naturally generates referrals and increases revenue About Jason Raitz Jason Raitz is on a mission to help leaders speak wit

Ryan Holck shares his journey from creative implementer to strategic partner, revealing how the right questions at the beginning of a project can completely transform both your client relationships and your bottom line. He breaks down exactly how to stop wasting time on prospects who aren't aligned with your value and start positioning yourself as more than just someone with a nice camera. Key Takeaways Asking "Who's the top person we're trying to reach and what's the next step you hope they'll take?" changes everything about how you approach video projects Bringing up budget expectations early saves everyone time - try saying "Projects like this typically run between $X and $Y" to quickly assess alignment Helping clients understand the value of what you're creating relative to their potential return makes price conversations much easier Good creative work isn't just about technical execution - it's about getting stories that connect emotionally and drive real results About Ryan Holck Ryan Holck is a speake

Matt Church shares his revolutionary approach to building a fulfilling business centered around your unique expertise and preferences rather than chasing market opportunities. He explains why the "third choice" of running a practice (not just a job or business) creates more freedom, impact, and alignment with who you truly are. Key Takeaways You have three choices: get a job, start a business, or run a practice – and running a practice around what you know gives you more control and fulfillment Your differentiation comes from preference and selection, not trying to broadcast how special you are to everyone • Work from your essence, expertise, and experience to create something unique without the pressure of being completely different from everyone else The "vacation test" is brilliant: would you go on vacation with your clients? If not, they're probably not your ideal clients About Matt Church Matt Church is one of the world's leading strategic thinkers and speakers, known for helping people prepare for tom

In this reunion episode, Ryan catches up with his old friend Sean Stockman (Midlife Stockman), who went from editing wedding videos to building a YouTube channel with over 600,000 subscribers by simply filming property transformations with his phone. Sean shares his journey from corporate America to full-time content creator and how his passion for serving others has created real-world impact beyond the screen. Key Takeaways You don't need fancy equipment to start creating content that resonates - Sean began with just his phone, a tripod, and free editing software  Consistency and authenticity matter more than polish - viewers respond to genuine passion, not perfect production  When you focus on serving others first (in Sean's case, by cleaning up properties and helping neighbors), growth often follows naturally  Building a community around shared values (like "working hard and loving your neighbor") can create impact far beyond what you initially imagined About Sean Stockman Sean Stockman, known online as

In this value-packed solo episode, Ryan dives into why focusing on one thing is the key to building a sustainable video business. He shares practical insights on breaking free from the feast-or-famine cycle and getting crystal clear on what you really want from your business. Key Takeaways Consistency in marketing wins - but you need to know what to be consistent with Pick 2-4 main goals instead of spreading yourself too thin across many objectives Focus on making one income stream overflow before adding new ones Get super clear on what "done" looks like for your goals  In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [01:04] Episode Intro [03:35] 10xFILMMAKER Workshop [05:06] Managing the Peaks and Valleys [06:42] Consistency in Your Marketing [09:10] Clear Business Goals [13:36] Entrepreneurial Operating System [16:51] Multiple Streams of Income [22:17] Outro Quotes "If you're not clear on what your goal is for your business, it's easy to get distracted because you're not on a path, you're not on a clear di

Cinematographer Vanessa Carr shares her journey from indie films to Netflix documentaries, revealing the techniques and mindset shifts that have helped her capture authentic, emotional stories. She opens up about working with high-profile clients like Prince Harry while staying true to the heart of documentary storytelling. Key Takeaways The power of silence in interviews - let those awkward moments hang and magic often follows Stop thinking about "B-roll" and start thinking about "world building" for more intentional visuals Building trust with subjects is crucial - be transparent about expectations and impact from day one Personal documentary projects can actually lead to better commercial opportunities About Vanessa Carr Vanessa Carr is a documentary cinematographer specializing in character-driven cinema vérité. Her long list of credits includes On Pointe (Disney+), Heart of Invictus (Netflix), which was one of Prince Harry's major series, and multiple HBO films. Her work has been on every major platfor