Minding My Creative Business Podcast

Ron "Ironic" Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks

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! read less
BusinessBusiness

Episodes

Unpacking Creative Entrepreneurship Season 1 Finale | MMCB Podcast Episode #8
Feb 26 2024
Unpacking Creative Entrepreneurship Season 1 Finale | MMCB Podcast Episode #8
Season 1 Recap and Future of Minding My Creative Business PodcastIn their Season 1 recap of the 'Minding My Creative Business Podcast', hosts Ron 'iRonic' Lee and ShySpeak delve into critical insights, personal reflections, and advice on navigating creative entrepreneurship. They reference pivotal moments and key learning from the season, emphasizing the process of evolving from an infringer to a CEO. In the season finale, the duo discusses the plan for their upcoming season, inviting listener feedback to shape future content. They announce a brief hiatus to prepare for Season 2, and end with their podcast's mantra which reflects a dedication to nurturing creative businesses.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:39 The Purpose of the Live Stream Episode01:21 Recap of the First Season02:11 Engaging with the Audience02:53 Reflections on the Podcast Journey05:02 The Joy of Execution and Expansion07:25 The Importance of Structure and Contracts09:18 The Power of Partnership10:44 The Value of Creativity12:36 The Impact of Responsibility on Business Growth14:35 The Role of Creativity in Business Expansion18:54 The Importance of Teamwork and Delegation21:45 The Power of Legacy and Entrepreneurship24:56 The Importance of Communication in Business28:44 The Role of Leadership in Team Management33:51 Delegating Tasks and Building a Team34:21 The Importance of Self-Development in Leadership34:47 Engaging with Live Audience and Addressing Questions35:29 Understanding Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)36:08 The Role of Training and Skill in Team Building36:56 The Importance of Protecting Your Ideas37:05 The Role of NDAs in Different Scenarios39:16 The Journey of a Creative Entrepreneur41:10 The Importance of Working in Relevant Fields42:38 The Transition from Creative to CEO42:39 The Importance of Identifying as a Creative Entrepreneur43:31 The Journey of a Multi-Hyphenate Creative Entrepreneur47:39 The Importance of Pricing and Return on Investment56:33 The Importance of Identifying as a Creative Entrepreneur01:01:50 The Importance of Community and Feedback01:04:45 Closing Remarks and Looking Forward to Season TwoKey Topics:Journey of Creation: The process and challenges of creating the podcast.Emotional Reflections: Joy, pride, and optimism felt by the hosts.Entrepreneurial Insights: Lessons learned from interviewing successful creative entrepreneurs.Challenges and Solutions: Overcoming technical and marketing hurdles.Future Aspirations: Plans for expanding and enhancing the podcast experience for listeners.Tips for Creative Entrepreneurs:Execution is Key: Moving from idea to execution is crucial. Planning and ideation are important, but the real value comes from bringing those ideas to life.Embrace the Highs and Lows: The entrepreneurial journey is filled with ups and downs. Learning from both the successes and challenges is essential for growth.Seek Guidance: No matter your industry, learning from those who have succeeded before you can provide invaluable insights and help avoid common pitfalls.Focus on Quality: Whether it's the content of your podcast or any creative output, striving for excellence will set you apart and resonate with your audience.Marketing Matters: Understanding the importance of marketing and finding effective strategies to promote your work is critical for reaching your target audience.This episode serves as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion required to create and...
Creativepreneur Protection 101: Building a Secure Creative Business | MMCB Podcast Episode #7
Feb 19 2024
Creativepreneur Protection 101: Building a Secure Creative Business | MMCB Podcast Episode #7
Introduction:Welcome to another insightful episode of the "Mind My Creative Business" podcast, catering to the creative entrepreneurs out there. In this episode, hosts ShySpeaks and Ronald Lee Jr. delve into crucial strategies for protecting your creative endeavors both internally and externally.Background:Navigating the world of creative entrepreneurship requires a unique set of skills, including safeguarding your ideas, time, and brand. ShySpeaks and Ronald Lee Jr. share their experiences and practical advice on establishing boundaries, implementing contracts, securing deposits, managing reviews, and leveraging non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to fortify your creative business.Key Topics Covered:Protecting Your Time:Setting boundaries to safeguard your creative and personal time.Recognizing the importance of balance to prevent burnout.Contract and Agreement Frameworks:The significance of having a contract in place for creative services.Simplifying contracts and obtaining legal approval for repeated use.Collecting Deposits and Milestone Payments:Utilizing deposits to secure commitment from clients.Implementing milestone payments for ongoing projects to ensure fair compensation.Review Management and Customer Service:Acknowledging the impact of online reviews on your creative business.Prioritizing customer service to enhance customer experience.Screening Clients:Developing a screening process to filter clients and align with your business structure.Setting expectations early in the client relationship to avoid potential conflicts.Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs):Utilizing NDAs to protect your intellectual property and confidential information.Integrating NDAs when sharing ideas with potential partners, managers, or publicists.00:00 - Intro & Welcome00:23 - Topic Introduction: Protect My Creative00:53 - Internal Protection: Starting with Ourselves01:12 - The Importance of Systems and Processes02:14 - Delving into Internal Protection: Strategy and Self-Development02:35 - Entity Formation, Insurance, and Intellectual Property03:51 - Breaking Down Entity Structures and Protection05:50 - The Significance of Insurance in Protecting Creatives08:39 - Ongoing Protection: Intellectual Property Rights15:11 - The Value of Legal Advice and CPA Guidance16:22 - Addressing Customer Experience and Service27:28 - Commercial Break & Merchandise Announcement27:32 - Transitioning to External Protection28:26 - Standard Contracts and Customary Agreements30:08 - Deposits and Milestone Payments36:04 - Online Presence Management37:22 - Utilizing Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)49:02 - Recap and Closing Thoughts52:35 - Closing Mantra and GoodbyeConclusion:As creative entrepreneurs, it's imperative to act as true entrepreneurs by implementing these strategies for internal and external protection. The hosts emphasize the importance of taking steps to safeguard time, creativity, intellectual property, and reputation. By adhering to these principles, creative entrepreneurs can foster a secure and thriving business.Call-to-Action:Ready to be a true Guardian of Creativity? Join the MMCB community, subscribe to the newsletter, and grab your Protective Strategies Workbook to fortify your creative empire. Embrace your role as a defender of your craft, and let the creative guarding commence!...
Power Duo: Business Insights | MMCB Episode 5 w/Josh & Karis Pharris
Feb 12 2024
Power Duo: Business Insights | MMCB Episode 5 w/Josh & Karis Pharris
Introduction:Embark on a journey with ShySpeaks and Ron "iRonic" Lee Jr. as the engage in a dynamic conversation with the creative power couple, Josh and Karis Pharris. In this insightful interview, they delve into their experiences as creative entrepreneurs, sharing valuable insights, challenges, and strategies that propelled their business growth.Creator Bio:Meet the Creative Power Couple, Josh and Karis Pharris, owners of Pharris Photography. With a passion for creative entrepreneurship, they share their journey and expertise to empower fellow creatives. Key Topics Covered:Hiring Strategies for Creatives:The Pharris duo discuss their hiring journey and the pivotal role it played in expanding their business.Insight into the importance of hiring to achieve financial growth and operational ease.Strategies for Scaling:The initial hiring decisions were driven by the need for increased productivity and reaching a higher income level.Emphasizing the significance of identifying and leveraging each team member's "zone of genius."Building a Supportive Team:The challenges of managing multiple employees and the realization that having a team requires a set of management skills.The comparison of managing a team to parenting and the growth process in becoming effective leaders.Leadership Development:Learning from experience and developing leadership skills to navigate the complexities of business growth.Recommended resources for leadership development, including insights from John Maxwell.Crucial Business Levers:Understanding the true value of your creative offer beyond the surface level.Establishing a strategic pricing structure aligned with your financial goals.Crafting a cohesive brand message that aligns with your offerings and builds client trust.Balancing Creativity and Administration:The unique synergy between Karis's creativity and Josh's administrative skills.Acknowledging the importance of embracing both creative and administrative aspects for business success.Key Takeaways:Hiring Strategies for Creatives:The Pharris duo divulge their hiring journey, showcasing its pivotal role in expanding their business.Insight into the importance of hiring for financial growth and operational ease.Strategies for Scaling:Initial hiring decisions driven by the need for increased productivity and reaching a higher income level.Emphasis on identifying and leveraging each team member's "zone of genius."Building a Supportive Team:Challenges of managing multiple employees and the realization that having a team requires a set of management skills.Comparison of managing a team to parenting and the growth process in becoming effective leaders.Leadership Development:Learning from experience and developing leadership skills to navigate the complexities of business growth.Recommended resources for leadership development, including insights from John Maxwell.Crucial Business Levers:Understanding the true value of your creative offer beyond the surface level.Establishing a strategic pricing structure aligned with your financial goals.Crafting a cohesive brand message that aligns with your offerings and builds client trust.Balancing Creativity and Administration:The unique synergy between Karis's creativity and Josh's administrative skills.Acknowledging the importance of embracing both creative and administrative aspects for business success.Closing Thoughts:As the conversation wraps up, ShySpeaks teases...
Scaling Your Creative Business | MMCB Episode 5 w/Lorraine Kamesha
Feb 5 2024
Scaling Your Creative Business | MMCB Episode 5 w/Lorraine Kamesha
Introduction:Welcome to another insightful episode of the "Minding My Creative Business" podcast! I'm thrilled to share this valuable interview with Lorraine Kamesha, a seasoned entrepreneur and creative professional who has mastered the art of scaling creative businesses. If you're a creative entrepreneur eager to take your venture to new heights, you're in for a treat. In this article, we'll dive deep into Lorraine's wisdom and experiences, exploring the keys to growing and sustaining a flourishing creative enterprise.Creators Bio:Lorraine Kamesha is a name synonymous with success in the creative business world. Her journey from aspiring creative to accomplished entrepreneur is an inspiration to many. Through her extensive experience, she has built a thriving creative enterprise and is dedicated to sharing her knowledge with fellow creatives.Key Takeaways:* Transitioning to Leadership: Lorraine emphasizes the crucial transition from a hands-on creator to a visionary leader. Learn how to step into this role effectively and guide your business to success.* Delegation and Systematization: Discover the art of delegation and systemization. Lorraine explains how these processes are essential for streamlining your creative business and allowing it to thrive.* Empowering Your Team: One of the keys to success is empowering your team to make decisions. Lorraine's insights into nurturing a collaborative and empowered work environment are invaluable.Step-by-Step Process:Step 1: Transitioning to Leadership* Understand the shift from creator to leader.* Develop a clear vision for your business.Step 2: Delegation and Systemization* Identify tasks that can be delegated.* Implement systems to streamline processes.Step 3: Empowering Your Team* Foster open communication and idea sharing.* Encourage your team to take ownership of their work.Quotes from Lorraine:Lorraine Kamesha on delegation: "Delegating tasks effectively is like greasing the wheels of your business. It allows everything to run smoothly."Lorraine Kamesha on collaboration: "Innovation often arises from the cross-pollination of ideas. Encourage collaboration, and watch your business thrive."Resources Mentioned:* mmcbpodcast.com: Visit the podcast's website to join the Creatives Corner community and access additional resources.Expert Advice:As someone deeply passionate about creative entrepreneurship, my personal advice is to embrace change and innovation. The creative business landscape is ever-evolving, and being adaptable is key. Listen to your audience, stay true to your vision, and never stop learning. Your journey, much like Lorraine's, can be a remarkable one.FAQ:Q1: How can I effectively transition from being a creator to a leader in my creative business? A1: Start by defining your business's vision and values. Then, delegate tasks that don't align with this vision, and focus on guiding your team toward achieving your creative goals.Q2: What role does collaboration play in scaling a creative business? A2: Collaboration fuels innovation. Encourage your team to share ideas and work together. It can lead to fresh perspectives and solutions that drive growth.Q3: What should I do if my creative business goes viral unexpectedly? A3: Be prepared to handle increased demand. Ensure your systems, team, and customer support can handle the influx. Use the opportunity to strengthen your brand.Q4: Where can I find more resources related to scaling my creative business? A4: Visit mmcbpodcast.com to access additional resources and join the Creatives Corner community.Q5: How can I leave a review for the "Minding My Creative Business" podcast? A5: You can leave a review on your preferred podcast platform, sharing your thoughts and feedback with the...
Freelancer to Studio Owner: A Creativepreneur's Journey | MMCB Episode 4
Jan 29 2024
Freelancer to Studio Owner: A Creativepreneur's Journey | MMCB Episode 4
IntroductionIn this captivating episode, we dive deep into the world of creative entrepreneurship with Frank Cage, a remarkable individual who transformed himself from a humble self-taught artist in Lima to the proud owner of Cage Design Studios. Frank's journey is an inspiring testament to what's possible when passion, determination, and a touch of creativity collide.Why This Episode MattersFrank's story is a testament to the resilience of creative entrepreneurs. His journey from freelancing to owning a thriving studio is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to embark on a similar path. As someone deeply entrenched in the creative industry, I believe that sharing this episode is invaluable for aspiring entrepreneurs.Creator BioFrank Cage is not just an entrepreneur; he's a visionary artist with a flair for design. His journey began as a self-taught artist in Lima, where his passion for art and design ignited. With dedication and an unwavering commitment to his craft, he ventured into higher education to refine his skills. Frank honed his expertise while working for a sign shop, gaining hands-on experience that would later prove indispensable.Frank's story is a testament to the boundless possibilities that open up when you combine creativity with an entrepreneurial spirit. Today, he is the proud owner of Cage Design Studios, a creative hub that offers a spectrum of services including photography, videography, and graphic design.Connect with Frank Cage and Cage Design Studios:Cage Design Studios WebsiteFrank Cage on InstagramKey TakeawaysThe Beginnings:Frank's early life and discovery of his passion for art.The pivotal decision to attend college and the practical experience gained while working for a sign shop.How a job loss became the catalyst for Frank's entrepreneurial journey.Starting Cage Design Studios:Frank's motivation to establish Cage Design Studios and the role of fatherhood in this decision.Overcoming the initial challenges, including financial hurdles and client acquisition.The importance of personal branding and reputation-building in the world of freelancing.Collaborations and Business Model:Frank's approach to collaborations and nurturing B2B relationships within the creative industry.The significance of mentorship in helping fellow creatives build their businesses.Insights into contractual agreements and clauses that protect the interests of a growing creative studio.Frank's Journey: A Step-by-Step GuideStep 1: The Beginnings Frank's journey began with his early passion for art and design. He decided to further his skills by attending college and gained practical experience while working for a sign shop. The pivotal moment that pushed him into entrepreneurship was when he lost his job, leading him to take the leap into starting his own business.Step 2: Starting Cage Design Studios Frank's motivation to start Cage Design Studios was deeply rooted in fatherhood. He encountered numerous challenges in the early days, including financial struggles and the need to secure clients. During this phase, he realized the vital importance of personal branding and building a strong reputation as a...
Unleashing  Business in Creativity | MMCB Episode 3 w/Feleceia Wilson
Jan 22 2024
Unleashing Business in Creativity | MMCB Episode 3 w/Feleceia Wilson
In this episode of the "Mind My Creative Business" podcast, Feleceia Wilson, a successful creative entrepreneur, shares her journey and valuable insights for budding entrepreneurs in the creative industry. She discusses her transition from studying musical theater to founding her own boutique communications agency. Her experiences provide crucial advice and inspiration to fellow creatives. Here are the key takeaways:Introduction and BackgroundFeleceia Benton shares her journey from studying musical theater to founding her boutique communications agency.She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and guidance from experienced individuals.Starting the Entrepreneurial JourneyFeleceia highlights the role of necessity in her journey, as she needed to provide for herself and her child.She started as a volunteer, offering her skills and gaining valuable experience.Navigating the TransitionFeleceia discusses the pivotal moment when she realized the importance of combining her creative talents with a business-oriented mindset.She emphasizes the significance of continually learning and evolving in one's entrepreneurial journey.Building a Communications AgencyFeleceia explains the transition from solopreneurship to building a team.She provides insights into restructuring contracts to ensure profitability and sustainability.The importance of factoring in all expenses, including equipment, licensing, and workspace, is emphasized.Customizing Services for ClientsFeleceia describes her agency's approach to tailoring services to each client's specific needs.She advises creatives to align clients' needs with their existing processes and skills to ensure a successful partnership.Measuring SuccessFeleceia outlines various methods to measure the effectiveness of creative work, including gathering client feedback, analyzing analytics, and monitoring revenue.She emphasizes the importance of regular evaluation and not being afraid to look at the data.Parting Thoughts and MantraFeleceia shares parting thoughts and expresses her willingness to return for future episodes.The podcast ends with a mantra: "All it takes is intention, consistency, and laser focus to mind my creative business."Feleceia Benton's journey from a creative background to establishing a thriving communications agency serves as an inspiration for those looking to combine their creative talents with entrepreneurial endeavors. Her insights into contract structuring, client customization, and effective measurement of success provide valuable guidance for creative entrepreneurs. The episode concludes with an empowering mantra for all creatives to embrace in their journey to success.Welcome to the "Mind My Creative Business" podcast, where creativity meets entrepreneurship in a symphony of success! 🎭🚀 In this episode, we're diving into the riveting journey of Feleceia Benton, a trailblazing creative entrepreneur who has not only harnessed her artistic talents but also transformed them into a thriving boutique communications agency. As an expert in this niche, I believe that sharing her story is invaluable for budding entrepreneurs in the creative industry.Creator Bio: Feleceia Benton Feleceia Benton is a dynamic entrepreneur, artist, and visionary. Her journey is a testament to the power of creativity combined with a strong entrepreneurial spirit. With a background in musical theater, she defied convention by founding her own boutique communications agency, where she seamlessly blends artistry with business acumen. Her experiences provide crucial advice and inspiration to fellow creatives on their entrepreneurial journeys.
Creative to CEO: Unlocking the Potential of Monetizing Your Creative Skills | MMCB Episode 2
Jan 15 2024
Creative to CEO: Unlocking the Potential of Monetizing Your Creative Skills | MMCB Episode 2
Show Notes - Episode 2 - Creative to CEO: Unlocking the Potential of Monetizing Your Creative SkillsThis episode covers the difference between being a creative and a creative entrepreneur, shifting mindset to a CEO perspective, examples of long-term strategies, embracing scalability, case study of scaling as a creator with B Simone, personal experiences in money-making projects, scaling on YouTube with Think Media, and using creativity to generate revenue while embracing opportunities for growth.1 - Key Topics1. From Creative to CEO: Unlocking the Potential of Monetizing Your Creative Skills2. The CEO Mindset: How Thinking Like a Business Owner Can Amplify Your Creativity3. Scaling Up: The Art of Expanding Your Creative Business with a CEO Mindset4. Turning Creativity into Profit: Strategies for Building a Successful Creative Entrepreneurship5. Creative Entrepreneurship 101: Navigating the Shift from Artist to Business Owner6. The Power of Scaling: How to Leverage Your Creative Skills for Business Growth7. Creativity as Currency: Embracing the CEO Mindset to Monetize Your Talents8. Unlocking the CEO Within: How to Turn Your Creative Passion into a Profitable Business9. Amplifying Creativity: The Roadmap to Thriving as a Creative Entrepreneur10. Think Like a CEO, Create Like an Artist: Building a Sustainable Business from Your CraftKeywords:creative, creative entrepreneur, expensive equipment, return on investment, CEO mindset, value, income, services, products, clients, margins, key performance indicators, profit, growth, long term, scalability, delegation, batching, scheduling, professional editor, scaling, business owners, balloon arch, recording artist, audience, fan base, merchandise, bakery, B Simone, Wild 'N Out, manifesting success.Timestamped Overview:00:03:02 Focused on improving creativity through craft.00:05:26 Creating brand strategy and achieving financial goals.00:07:05 Creatives may not prioritize return on investment.00:11:08 Transitioning from selling creativity to monitoring financials.00:16:30 Timing and strategy for profit and supply.00:19:49 Scalability for creatives: expanding your business.00:21:43 Scaling involves delegating tasks and expanding offerings.00:26:02 Creators delegate by batching and outsourcing editing.00:29:00 Online personality scales brand through various ventures.00:32:11 "Think Media: How to Scale Up YouTube"00:38:55 Using my creativity for a money-making project.00:46:20 Creativity can generate revenue and growth.00:50:59 Join Creative Corner community: newsletter & Facebook. Visit mmcbpodcast.com to join.Question:1. How would you define the difference between being a creative and being a creative entrepreneur?2. In what ways do you think a CEO mindset can benefit creative entrepreneurs?3. Can you think of any examples from your own experience where thinking like a CEO benefited your creative business?4. How do you currently approach scalability in your creative business? Are there any areas where you can see room for growth?5. Have you ever delegated tasks in your creative business? If so, what impact did it have on your productivity and ability to scale?6. Are there any aspects of your creative business that you feel are not currently scalable? How might you be able to overcome these challenges?7. After listening to the episode, has your perspective on monetizing your creativity changed? If so, how?8. Have you ever considered collaborating with other creatives or turning your business into an agency model? What potential benefits or challenges do you see in doing so?9. What steps can you take to shift your mindset from solely...
What is a Creativepreneur? | MMCB Episode 1
Jan 8 2024
What is a Creativepreneur? | MMCB Episode 1
Show Notes - Episode 1 - What is a Creative Entrepreneur1 - Key TopicsBackground: Are you a creative entrepreneur seeking to turn your artistic passions into thriving business ventures? Look no further! In this episode of the Minding My Creative Business podcast, hosts Shy Speaks and Ron "Ironic" Lee Jr. delve into the dynamic world of creative entrepreneurship. They unravel the essence of being a creative entrepreneur, dissect the roles within this realm, and explore the transition from creator to CEO. Get ready to embark on a journey of insights and strategies that empower creative entrepreneurs to flourish in their endeavors.Key Topics Covered:Defining Creative Entrepreneurs: Discover what it truly means to be a creative entrepreneur who combines artistic talents with business acumen.Four Types of Creative Entrepreneurs: Explore the distinct roles of artists, makers, movers, and shakers within the realm of creative entrepreneurship.Transitioning Between Roles: Learn how creative entrepreneurs can evolve and adapt as they shift between different roles to align with their changing passions and goals.The Shaker Perspective: Gain inspiration from prominent figures like Dr. Oz and Walt Disney, who transformed their creative visions into successful business ventures.Balancing Creativity and Business: Uncover the art of balancing creative pursuits with effective business strategies, including the importance of automation and team expansion.Conclusion: Join Shy Speaks and Ron "Ironic" Lee Jr. on this enlightening episode that lays the foundation for creative entrepreneurs to build, innovate, and succeed. Stay tuned for future episodes that delve deeper into the transition from creator to CEO, featuring interviews with accomplished creative entrepreneurs. As the hosts inspire you to mind your creative business, remember that success requires intention, consistency, and laser focus.Target Audience: This episode is tailored for aspiring and established creative entrepreneurs who are eager to amplify their artistic talents while building successful business ventures. Whether you're an artist, maker, mover, or shaker, the insights shared in this episode will guide you on your journey to creative and entrepreneurial fulfillment.Episode Duration: Approximately 42 minutes