Paid To Create Podcast

AJ Roberts & Sarah Jenkins

Fireside chats with some of today’s best and brightest Creators

Welcome to Paid To Create, a podcast that features insightful conversations with some of today's most successful entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Join us as we delve into the minds of coaches, consultants, agencies, and experts from various industries to discuss their experiences, strategies, and journeys to success.

Our guests have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in their respective fields and will share their insights on what it takes as a creator to build and grow a successful business.

Each episode is a chance to gain practical advice and inspiration from those who have been through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.


Our goal is to provide valuable insights and actionable tips to help you take your business to the next level.

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BusinessBusiness
EntrepreneurshipEntrepreneurship
MarketingMarketing

Episodes

S2E10 Q&A: Building Trust, Crafting Ads, and Managing Teams
3d ago
S2E10 Q&A: Building Trust, Crafting Ads, and Managing Teams
In this Q&A episode of Paid to Create, we’re answering your questions on growing your business, mastering marketing, and leading remote teams. We share strategies that actually work, from creating ads that capture attention to managing remote teams without feeling like a micromanager.We’ll dive into the psychology behind irresistible ads, why authenticity is key in marketing, and how you can connect with your audience on a deeper level. Plus, we discuss how to build real engagement, like showing appreciation to customers without breaking the bank and crafting stories that resonate so deeply, your audience will keep coming back.Managing remote teams? We’ve got you covered. Learn how to leverage individual strengths, offer flexibility, and keep people motivated—without the burnout. And when it comes to consumer personas, we’ll break down how understanding your audience helps you craft more effective, tailored messaging that stands out, even when you’re catering to polarizing customer segments.Along the way, we’ll also share lessons from legal and operational mistakes and why having the right advisors can save you from costly errors. We’ll throw in a few productivity hacks, too, for delegating tasks and managing your time more efficiently. And if you’re struggling with low engagement as a content creator, we’ve got tips for staying focused on your creative journey despite the setbacks.Tune in for practical, no-nonsense advice mixed with a little humor and real stories from our own entrepreneurial journeys. Whether you're starting out or scaling up, this episode is packed with insights you can put into action right now.Here’s what we cover in this episode:What's your favorite way to make customers feel special without breaking the bank?What’s your go-to tip for making an ad truly irresistible?How do you keep everyone aligned and motivated in a fully remote setup?How do you adjust your marketing to appeal to both rule followers and rule breakers?What’s one ‘ups’ moment in your business journey that taught you the biggest lesson?How do you spot marketing trends before they become mainstream?What’s the first system every small business owner should put into place?What’s one launch strategy that always works, no matter the industry?What’s the secret to crafting a story that customers connect with?What’s the number one mistake entrepreneurs make while trying to build trust with their audience?What’s your best tip for staying motivated when things get tough?Listen to - or watch - all episodes of Paid to Create at paidtocreatepodcast.com
Festive Cash Flow: Holiday Marketing Tactics to Boost Your Bottom Line
Nov 15 2024
Festive Cash Flow: Holiday Marketing Tactics to Boost Your Bottom Line
In this episode of Paid to Create, we’re tackling holiday sales head-on, including some of the common objections that hold entrepreneurs back. From the concern of “holiday sales fatigue” to worries about discounting too deeply, AJ and Sarah break down why leaning into holiday promotions is not just beneficial but essential for your business. With practical, proven strategies, they’ll show you how to capture seasonal demand and leverage it for long-term growth, even if you’re wary of competing with big-box retailers.Listen in as we explore:Magnetic Holiday Offers – How to craft irresistible, limited-time deals that boost sales without cheapening your brandConverting Holiday Shoppers to Year-Round Customers – Overcome the "one-time buyer" mindset with strategies that build loyalty long after the holiday rushStanding Out Without Discounting – Creative ways to grab attention and increase sales without slashing pricesSocial Media & Ad Hacks – Reach more customers with social media tactics and ad strategies that drive high ROI during peak shopping timesInventory Management Secrets – Avoid holiday stockouts and overstocks with smart inventory moves that keep cash flow steadyPost-Holiday Follow-Up Blueprint – Capitalize on new relationships with perfectly timed follow-ups that turn holiday shoppers into repeat customersThe holiday season is a prime opportunity to connect with new audiences, showcase your brand’s unique value, and set up a strong start to the new year. Don’t miss this episode, packed with insights on how to make the most of this critical season—even if you have reservations. With the right approach, you can attract new customers, grow your brand, and boost your bottom line.Listen to all episodes at paidtocreatepodcast.com
S2E7 Election Chaos: Is Your  Small Business Prepared for Policy Shocks?
Oct 31 2024
S2E7 Election Chaos: Is Your Small Business Prepared for Policy Shocks?
As election season heats up, we’re breaking down how political economics could make or break small businesses in the year ahead. From proposed tax changes to corporate policies, we dissect the stark contrasts between Harris and Trump on business taxes, revealing what these shifts could mean for your bottom line. Drawing lessons from economic crises like COVID-19, we explore the tightrope small businesses walk between staying profitable and keeping teams afloat, highlighting how the next election could tip the balance.What happens when political promises clash with business realities? We dive into the friction between rising minimum wage demands and the growing role of tech, discussing how small businesses can stay competitive amid changing labor laws. With real-world cases, including Apple’s tariff struggles with China, we uncover strategies for navigating unpredictable trade and labor regulations, showing how profit margins drive growth, jobs, and benefits.And then there’s healthcare—will policy changes lighten or worsen the load on small business owners? We compare the American healthcare system with universal models, examining the pros and cons as California grapples with its own financial hurdles. Wrapping up with a fresh look at tipping practices, taxes, and cultural norms, we consider how the upcoming election could redefine everything from your payroll to your profits.Listen to all episodes of Paid to Create at paidtocreatepodcast.com
S2E4 Q&A: Marketing, Messaging, and Making Money
Oct 11 2024
S2E4 Q&A: Marketing, Messaging, and Making Money
Is it possible to transform the way you think about marketing expenses? Explore innovative strategies with us as we challenge the misconception that effective marketing for small businesses must break the bank. Promising you a new perspective, we discuss the benefits of acquiring marketing skills independently versus outsourcing to experts. With practical examples, such as assessing podcast production costs, we illustrate how to view marketing as an investment with potential high returns rather than a burdensome expense.Discover how service providers, like chiropractors, can reclaim their time and maintain income through unconventional strategies. We introduce the concept of "selling your sawdust," a creative approach that involves monetizing unique knowledge and systems developed over time. This strategy not only offers additional revenue streams but also provides a pathway to achieving a sustainable work-life balance, liberating professionals from the constraints of a packed schedule without sacrificing their financial stability.Authenticity can build a community, and we explain how documenting your genuine experiences can foster a supportive tribe on social media. By sharing personal stories and insights, you can cultivate an engaged audience that backs your business ventures. We stress the importance of maintaining sales and revenue, especially during tough economic periods, and offer strategies to maximize advertising investments to stand out in a crowded market. Learn how prioritizing proactive sales efforts and leveraging personal authenticity can help your business thrive, even in challenging times.
S2E1 Mastering Political Influence: Trump vs Harris
Sep 20 2024
S2E1 Mastering Political Influence: Trump vs Harris
What if understanding the power of certainty could not only transform political campaigns but also revolutionize your business strategy? In this episode of Paid to Create, we break down the recent presidential debate between Trump and Harris, honing in on how mastering language and confidence can sway public opinion—and how these same tactics apply to business and marketing. We compare Trump’s bold, assured communication style with Harris’s more cautious approach, emphasizing how a clear stance and confident messaging can win over not just voters, but also your target audience.Drawing parallels between political messaging and product marketing, we use Trump’s media tactics as a compelling case study. From leveraging platforms like TikTok to rethinking how age and branding play into public perception, this episode connects the dots between political campaigns and business strategies. How did Obama change the game with social media? How can you use those same lessons to connect with younger consumers and grow your business?We also dive into personal branding, comparing figures like Trump, Zuckerberg, and Musk with Harris’s more subdued image, and discuss how your personal brand can influence your business success. Whether it’s engaging voters or customers, the art of sound bites, media influence, and clear communication remains the same. And for the business-minded, we dig into taxing unrealized gains and how policy impacts different socioeconomic groups—because yes, even taxes can teach you something about marketing.This episode is packed with insights on political marketing, personal branding, and the essential strategies for engaging your audience—whether in the voting booth or the marketplace. Tune in and get ready to transform how you think about business, marketing, and influence.Learn more and subscribe.
015 Harnessing the Magic of Gamification for Your Business with Jeff Sherman
Jul 26 2023
015 Harnessing the Magic of Gamification for Your Business with Jeff Sherman
Why do we get hooked so easily on video games and social media? What if we could leverage that to make online education equally addicting? In this episode of “Paid to Create,” we are joined by Jeff Sherman, the mastermind behind the cutting-edge platform Numove, to explore how micro learning and gamification are revolutionizing the online educational landscape. Breaking down complex information into bite-sized, actionable steps can help learners retain and process information – while skyrocketing engagement and course completion rates. It's not just about digestible chunks of content, however. Add a dash of gamification, and you've got an irresistible formula.Imagine a learning experience where learners are not just passive recipients but active participants – driven by competition, spurred on by community, and motivated by tangible rewards. Jeff paints a vivid picture of this dynamic landscape, sharing real-life examples from his platform.We also touch upon the future of online learning, where AI isn't just a buzzword but a tool that personalizes your learning journey. Even so, in this high-tech world, the human touch remains essential. Jeff emphasizes the immeasurable value of personal interactions, feedback, and community building – which remain the cornerstones of long-term customer loyalty and success.Plus, get a sneak peek into how gaming elements, like badges and points, aren't just shiny trinkets but potent tools of engagement. Jeff shares his insights on building powerful communities around courses and why the next big thing might just be 'chore wars' for kids!🎧 Dive in and discover how you can harness the power of micro-learning and gamification to transform lives, including your own. Only on "Paid To Create."
014 Profitable Self-Publishing: Cliff Pelloni's Unique Approach to Build Your Brand with a Book
Jul 19 2023
014 Profitable Self-Publishing: Cliff Pelloni's Unique Approach to Build Your Brand with a Book
Unlock the transformative power of your own story with publishing expert Cliff Pelloni. In this episode of the Paid to Create Podcast, Cliff discusses the incredible potential of writing and publishing a book. He believes we all have a book within us, waiting to be written. Beyond being a creative pursuit, writing your book can be a game-changer for your business, brand, and even your bank account.Cliff delves into the advantages of self-publishing, explaining how it offers unparalleled control and flexibility compared to traditional publishing routes. He underlines the significance of a book as a potent marketing tool, capable of establishing your authority and attracting your ideal clients like a magnet.You’ll also discover proven tips to overcome the common hurdles that stand between you and your author journey. Whether it's lack of time, a disdain for writing, or uncertainty about where to start, Cliff provides practical strategies to navigate these challenges. This episode provides tremendous insights for aspiring authors, filled with motivating quotes that inspire action. Cliff's message is clear: it's time to bring your book out of your head and into the world.Don't miss this opportunity to harness the power of authorship. Find the confidence to take that leap and unleash the book that's been lingering within you. Because your story is unique, and it's about time the world hears it. Listen in, start writing, and transform your life and business. The book is your beginning, the springboard to a much larger journey. Step into the world of authorship and discover the untapped potential that lies within your words. Tune in now and embark on your author journey today!
013 Mastering the CEO Mindset: Harnessing Kent Clothier’s Secrets to Success
Jul 12 2023
013 Mastering the CEO Mindset: Harnessing Kent Clothier’s Secrets to Success
In this captivating episode of the Paid to Create Podcast, we invited Kent Clothier, an entrepreneur who achieved a staggering $1.8 billion in annual sales before turning 30, and also experienced the humbling downfall of losing it all. Known nationally as a highly effective performance coach and speaker, Kent candidly shares the lessons he learned as he climbed back from his personal and professional rock bottom to reclaim success and fulfillment.Discover the crucial mindset shift Kent had to make as he transitioned from a relentless hustler to a visionary CEO. With searing honesty, he discusses the profound impact of failure and how hitting rock bottom acted as a catalyst for his extraordinary personal transformation.Kent delves into the significant aspects of building a successful team - the importance of hiring individuals who align seamlessly with the company's core values and vision. He also shares invaluable insights into making tough decisions, including recognizing when a hire isn't the right fit and implementing necessary changes for the organization's overall growth and success.Above all, this episode is a testament to the power of time management and intentional life design. Kent emphasizes the finite nature of time, urging listeners to seize control of their lives and make intentional choices to design a life worth living.Join us for this deeply insightful and inspiring episode. Immerse yourself in Kent Clothier's journey and arm yourself with the wisdom to navigate your own path towards personal and professional fulfillment. Remember, "You can do anything. You may choose not to, but don't say this. Can't or cannot. That is not true."Don't miss this chance to gain exceptional insights and strategies that can help transform your approach to leadership and life. Click to listen now!
012 Redefining Success: Brad Costanzo's Transformation from Financial Advisor to Marketing Savant
Jul 5 2023
012 Redefining Success: Brad Costanzo's Transformation from Financial Advisor to Marketing Savant
Welcome to the Paid to Create Podcast. In this episode, we invited serial entrepreneur, CEO, and founder Brad Costanzo to share with us his remarkable journey from financial advisor to highly-sought business consultant. Hear firsthand how Brad turned a financial crisis into an opportunity, catapulting him from corporate America to the wild world of entrepreneurship.Marvel at Brad's audacious foray into the world of online business, where he created and sold a non-existent product, demonstrating innovation, risk-taking, and a knack for turning the improbable into reality. Discover his intriguing journey of transforming an idea - teaching magic tricks to impress women - into a flourishing enterprise, sparked by a page from Neil Strauss's bestseller, "The Game."Brad also unravels the value of viewing one's career as an independent venture, emphasizing the boundless potential this mindset offers. As we dive deep into the misconceptions of overnight success, the episode shines a light on the nuanced challenges and triumphs inherent in the entrepreneurial journey.We explore the intricate dance of optimism and criticism and the critical role of feedback in the world of startups. Learn about the unique productivity systems, the role of AI in future businesses, and the power of staying present to achieve success.This episode is not just about Brad's story; it is about you and your journey. Regardless of whether you're a veteran entrepreneur or a newcomer, the insights and advice contained in this episode promise to equip you with valuable knowledge to embark on your entrepreneurial adventure.Tune into this engaging episode of "Paid To Create," as Brad Costanzo, armed with a wealth of knowledge and experience, helps you unlock the secrets of your entrepreneurial path. Remember, the road to success may be winding, but with the right guidance, it's within your grasp.Don't miss out on this remarkable opportunity to learn from a master of the trade. Click to listen now, because your journey to entrepreneurial greatness is just a play button away!
011 Genius Adaptation: Joanna Kinsman's Remarkable Success–Pivoting from Internet Marketing to Selling Masks
Jun 28 2023
011 Genius Adaptation: Joanna Kinsman's Remarkable Success–Pivoting from Internet Marketing to Selling Masks
Welcome to the Paid to Create Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Joanna Kinsman, fashion entrepreneur and founder of Kinsman Kini Bands. Joanna opens up about her transition from internet marketing to launching her own fashion business with low overhead. She shares fascinating insights about overcoming challenges, building a supportive community around her brand, and the importance of flexibility in the ever-evolving world of business.When COVID-19 hit, Joanna swiftly pivoted her business to meet the new demands, ingeniously creating masks out of bikini material. Not only did this save her business but also sparked a wave of opportunities for other brands to build additional revenue streams. Her remarkable agility and forward-thinking approach serve as a powerful lesson for all entrepreneurs facing uncertainty.Learn about the intricate process of getting a product into retail stores, a feat Joanna achieved with exceptional finesse. She talks about the struggles, the strategies, and the relentless persistence that finally paid off. But it’s not just about retail – Joanna’s expertise in building customer relationships shines through as she discusses the importance of personal connection and high-quality customer service.This episode also dives into the behind-the-scenes of managing a small business, working with larger companies, and maintaining the balance between passion and pragmatism in hiring decisions. Listen as Joanna shares her strategy for maintaining resilience amidst the highs and lows of business ownership.The conversation further explores the power of an effective email, the art of cold outreach, and the potential of merchandising to add an extra layer of brand value. Joanna's tale is filled with practical advice and heartening wisdom that will inspire you, whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner looking to scale up.From testing new ideas and spotting trends to acknowledging the value of hard work and celebrating wins, this episode encapsulates the thrilling roller coaster ride of entrepreneurship. It underscores the significance of agility, the importance of passion, and the undeniable power of personal touch in sales and marketing.Immerse yourself in the world of fashion entrepreneurship and come away with newfound knowledge, inspiration, and actionable takeaways. Don't miss out – tune in now!
010 Event Planning Magic: Game-Changing Strategies for Thrilling Attendees and Boosting Business Growth
Jun 21 2023
010 Event Planning Magic: Game-Changing Strategies for Thrilling Attendees and Boosting Business Growth
Welcome to the Paid to Create Podcast.  We're joined by the dynamic DeAnna Rogers, an entrepreneur whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. DeAnna is all about the power of live events and networking to grow businesses. She believes in the magic that unfolds when like-minded individuals connect, and how these connections can blossom into lucrative partnerships and joint ventures.We’re shining a spotlight on a fierce lady who didn’t just beat stage four cancer but went on to create AMG Affiliate Mastermind Group. This company is changing the game, teaching folks how to rock event spaces and make deals, especially in real estate. And guess what? She teamed up with the big shot Roland Fraser!And because we love to spoil you with value, this episode is also packed with golden nuggets on thriving in the post COVID-19 world, building a rockstar event team, and delivering content that’ll have people begging for more.Get ready to master the art of wowing not just the attendees but sponsors and speakers too. We’re talking about nailing every detail, handling team vibes, and even budgeting like a boss. And let’s not forget the insider scoop on using Kartra to make your event marketing a breeze.Whether you’re just dipping your toes into event planning or you’re the go-to pro, this episode is your VIP pass to soaring to new heights with your events and business. The secret sauce? Crafting amazing experiences and having a game plan.Don’t miss this treasure chest of wisdom! Hit play and buckle up for a wild ride of knowledge, inspiration, and kick-butt strategies that will totally transform how you do events. 🎧
009 The Empathy Edge: Unleashing Business Success through Human Connections with VP Bonnie Hargrove
Jun 14 2023
009 The Empathy Edge: Unleashing Business Success through Human Connections with VP Bonnie Hargrove
Welcome to the Paid to Create Podcast! Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the transformative world of building personal connections and fostering customer empathy. Our esteemed guest, Bonnie Hargrove, Vice President of Operations and Customer Experience at Genesis Digital, shares her invaluable insights and expertise on revitalizing businesses through the power of personal relationships.Discover the secrets to creating a positive work environment and investing in your team as Bonnie reveals her tried-and-true methods for optimizing business processes and reducing customer service challenges. Learn how Bonnie's team successfully implemented change, improved software efficiency, and eliminated backlogs, all while prioritizing the human touch.In this engaging conversation, we explore the art of pattern recognition and its role in identifying the root causes of issues. Gain practical strategies for effective communication, scaling your business, and convincing stakeholders to embrace change. Bonnie uncovers the benefits of outsourcing and reveals how to create a vibrant sense of community among customers, fostering loyalty and long-term success.Uncover the power of personalizing customer service and the profound impact it has on building connections and community. Delve into the psychology of emotional buying and the art of humanizing your brand to resonate with customers on a deeper level. Together, we'll uncover the secret ingredients to building a supportive work environment that nurtures growth and empowers your team to achieve extraordinary results.Don't miss out on this captivating episode that redefines the way we approach business. Tune in now and unlock the potential of personal connections to revitalize your business, create a thriving community, and forge lasting customer relationships. Get ready to be inspired to take your business to new heights through the power of human connection.
008 Defying the Odds: Travis Stephenson's Journey from Zero Coding to an 8-figure Software Empire
Jun 7 2023
008 Defying the Odds: Travis Stephenson's Journey from Zero Coding to an 8-figure Software Empire
Welcome to another exhilarating episode of the Paid to Create podcast, where we crack the code of successful entrepreneurship! Join us as we journey alongside Travis Stephenson, the mastermind who launched an eight-figure software empire from scratch. Travis will be spilling the secrets of his groundbreaking approach to building a business that didn't just thrive but skyrocketed with every feature he added.In this enlightening conversation, Travis reveals his strategy for pre-selling each feature to a fresh audience and crafting a robust training mechanism around it. He underlines the critical interplay of personal and professional life, a balance often underestimated by many young entrepreneurs. How did he build commercial-grade software without any background in enterprise-level development? Find out in this episode!Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, seasoned business owner, or a curious listener, this episode packs a treasure trove of insights. It is more than a success story—it's a blueprint for ambitious minds who want to change the world through innovation and perseverance. Travis's tale is not just about building a software titan, but also about staying true to one's values and fostering happiness in work and life.Discover how the game-changing power of marketing platforms like Kartra can transform your business. Uncover the essence of authentic marketing and learn how to frame messages that resonate with your audience, all while standing out in the marketplace with your unique spark.In the world of entrepreneurship, it's not just about tools or platforms—it's about harnessing your strengths, confronting your weaknesses, and leveraging them to craft a business model as unique as you. It's about staying agile, adapting to changes, and keeping the fire of learning alive. So, if you're seeking to elevate your business game, you don't want to miss out on this episode. Dive in now, let's get Paid to Create!