How to Find Clients Who Just Get It - Sales Lessons from Carl Cleanthes from Epic Made

Carl Cleanthes, founder of Epic Made, joins me to talk about how he built a thriving creative studio by staying rooted in purpose, clarity, and aligned clients. With nearly two decades in business, Carl shares what helped Epic Made outlast trends and grow without compromising its creative core. We dive into his niche-focused approach, the intentional way he filters for clients, and how AI has found a place in his creative workflow without diluting the work.Key Takeaways:Clarity is a sales tool. Carl’s deep niche in geek culture and entertainment allows Epic Made to attract aligned clients without chasing trends.No convincing required. If he has to talk someone into working with him, it's already a misalignment.AI is a collaborator, not a replacement. It’s part of his process—but the human touch still leads.Playing the long game pays off. Carl worked 15 years without a profit to build a brand he believed in.Your voice attracts your people. Carl’s content and creative style speak directly to his audience’s values—no mass appeal needed.Sales as Service Challenge - Join In! Take 15 minutes to write down three traits of your dream client. Not just demographics—but behaviors, values, how they show up in the sales process, and what makes the work with them feel effortless and energizing.Then, use that list to audit your next inquiry. Do they align? Where’s the red flag? Where’s the green light?The goal isn’t to close everyone. The goal is to recognize who’s actually a fit—and stop convincing those who aren’t.Links & Resources:Check out the LinkedIn Lead Generator Challenge to learn how to turn simple daily actions into real conversations with potential clients:  https://studiothree49.com/linkedin-leadsLearn more about Carl and Epic Made: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cleanthes  https://www.instagram.com/colorfulcarl/https://www.epic-made.com/https://www.youtube.com/@ColorfulCarlArt/podcastsResources mentioned in the episode:https://juliacameronlive.com/books-by-julia/https://lunchclub.comhttps://jasonswenk.com/Have an episode idea? DM me on LinkedIn or Instagram and let me know.Tam Smith is the founder of Studio Three 49 and a professional conversation starter. She helps service-based founders stop waiting for referrals and start creating opportunities through genuine conversations.Your next client - calculate what it takes.Learn how to consistently book 3–5 sales-qualified meetings each week - book an Alignment Call. Connect with Tam on LinkedIn. Produced by KNWN Media. Executive Producer: Jess Milanes.