Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth, Strategy and Monetization

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What if the thing you've spent your life hiding is actually the thing that builds your empire? In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dom Domasky sit down with Wendy Babcock — TEDx speaker, songwriter, visibility strategist, and founder/CEO of When Stories, a storytelling and visibility platform helping women turn their defining moments into talks, books, podcasts, and media assets. This conversation goes way beyond "share your story." Wendy breaks down the real business mechanics behind turning vulnerability into authority — including the three specific assets (a book, a TEDx talk, and podcast appearances) that shifted her own business and started attracting speaking opportunities to her instead of the other way around. The conversation also dives deep into a topic every entrepreneur and speaker needs to understand right now: GEO and AEO — how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini are increasingly used by event planners to find and vet speakers, and what kind of content actually gets indexed by AI versus what just looks good on Instagram. Plus: a hilarious (and brutally honest) round of "Jules Rules" covering the worst things you can possibly do on a stage, and Wendy's signature framework for building a talk that actually moves an audience — including her concept of neuro-coupling and the difference between speaking from "the wound" versus "the scar." If you've ever felt like your story was too messy, too painful, or not "polished" enough to build a business around — this episode is your sign. Meet Your Guest: Wendy Babcock Wendy Babcock is the founder and CEO of When Stories, a storytelling and visibility platform that helps women transform their defining life moments into TEDx-style talks, books, podcasts, and media assets. She's a TEDx speaker, songwriter, and visibility strategist with nearly a decade of professional speaking experience, and she's also a past featured speaker at Cre8tive Con OTR. Connect with Wendy: When Stories: whenstories.com Personal site: wendybabcock.com In This Episode Intro — Why the thing you're hiding might be the thing the world needs Meet Wendy Babcock — From TEDx speaker to founder of When Stories Why vulnerability builds connection — "When you share the real, real stuff... it connects you on a whole different level" The origin story of When Stories — How one coaching question — "Tell me a moment when everything changed" — became a business The 3 Authority Assets — Why a book, a TEDx talk, and podcast appearances changed everything for Wendy's business Egocentric vs. Authority-Centric Visibility — The two types of visibility, and which one actually builds a business GEO & AEO Explained — How AI search (ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Gemini) is changing how speakers get discovered and booked Reels, Content & John Lee — Why "more content" isn't always the right advice, and what event planners actually want to see now Jules Rules — The worst things you can do on stage (slap somebody, admit you're nervous, pitch from the jump, recite a memorized speech, run over time) Wendy's Storytelling Framework — Leading from the scar (not the wound), the "drop them into a moment" technique, and neuro-coupling Final Takeaway — Healing becomes leadership: how your story becomes your service Quotable Moments "Your story is not your weakness — it's your authority, and it can be your asset." "AI doesn't care about egocentric. It's looking for content that serves an audience, that teaches something, that shows your expertise." "Event planners are going to Claude and ChatGPT saying, 'I need a speaker who solves this problem for my audience,' and seeing what comes up." "There's a difference between leading from the wound and leading from the scar. When you lead from the wound, you're still bleeding. When you lead from the scar, healing becomes leadership." "Drop them into a moment. Don't narrate — describe." 5 Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs & Speakers Your story isn't a liability — it's an asset. The most painful chapter of your life can become the foundation of your authority, your brand, and your revenue. Build your 3 authority assets. A book, a TEDx (or TEDx-style) talk, and podcast appearances are the assets that actually move the needle on bookings and credibility. Know the difference between egocentric and authority-centric visibility. "Look at me" content is flashy but slow to convert. Content that teaches and demonstrates expertise is what AI search engines — and event planners — are now prioritizing. GEO and AEO are not optional anymore. If your content (articles, transcripts, podcast appearances) isn't being indexed by AI tools, you may not show up when someone asks ChatGPT or Claude for a recommendation in your space. Master the "drop them into a moment" technique. Skip the preamble. Start your story mid-scene, with sensory detail, so your audience experiences neuro-coupling — feeling like they're living the moment with you. Resources & Links Mentioned When Stories (Wendy's company): whenstories.com Wendy Babcock (personal site): wendybabcock.com Cre8tive Con OTR — the conference where Julie & Dom discovered Wendy as a speaker Keep Creating — Connect With Us Loved this episode? Don't just listen — go do something with it. Your story has been sitting on the shelf long enough. Want help turning your story into your brand strategy? That's exactly the kind of work Julie does — head to julielokunconsulting.com to learn more. Need a daily dose of motivation to keep going while you build? Get your fix at motivationchamps.com. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with the entrepreneur in your life who's been hiding their story. Until next time — keep creating. JOIN US AT CRE8TIVE CON! www.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.

Are you struggling to get your book, product, or business in front of the right people? In this power-packed solo episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, host and publisher Dominick Domasky steps in while Julie is out on assignment to deliver one of the most actionable marketing episodes yet. Whether you're an author, small business owner, entrepreneur, or content creator, Dominick breaks down more than 20 real-world strategies to help you expand your reach, grow your audience, and convert connections into customers — without waiting for someone else to do it for you. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why networking events are about connections, not closes — and how to work a room the right way How to land speaking opportunities at Rotary Clubs, Kiwanis, chambers of commerce, and retirement groups The power of being your own hype man (and why no marketing firm can replace your authentic voice) How consignment shops, boutique hotels, and local gift shops can become unexpected sales channels Why podcast tours are one of the most underutilized growth tools for entrepreneurs and authors The social media engagement trap — and what you should be doing instead How Amazon book reviews directly impact your discoverability (the magic numbers: 50 and 100) How to throw a launch party that creates buzz and builds community The press release strategy that works for both local and national exposure How to tap into book clubs, mommy influencers, and business event speakers series TED Talks, university speaking, and how to build a global platform The power of unique partnerships — and the story of an author who sold 400,000 books through college students How to create your own stage with vlogs, reels, and social audio Dom's Rules (Today's "Jules Rules" Replacement): Don't wait until 3 days before launch to start talking about your product Don't make it all about you — vanity is not a marketing strategy Stop giving the same canned speech — tailor your message to every room Key Takeaway: "Your story, your message, your business, your brand, your service can help people — to not share it with the world is actually a disservice." — Dominick Domasky Resources & Topics Mentioned: Networking events and local business groups Rotary Clubs, Kiwanis, chambers of commerce Consignment shops and local retail partnerships Amazon book review strategy Podcast guesting / podcast tours Press releases (local and national) TED Talks and Blue Talks University speaking engagements Social media content creation (reels, vlogs, social audio) Launch party strategies Connect with Dominick Domasky: Motivation Champs | Creative Entrepreneur Podcast www.motivationchamps.com www.cre8tivecon.com Enjoyed this episode? Rate, review, and subscribe to the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — and share it with a fellow entrepreneur who needs to hear this message. Don't keep it to yourself! Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth, Strategy and Monetization - Podcast - Apple Podcasts 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.

JOIN US LIVE IN BOSTON- MEET AND NETWORK WITH ENTREPRENEURS! www.cre8tiveconotr.com What does it take to lead 16,000 people — and what can that teach entrepreneurs? In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur, hosts Dom Domasky and Julie Lokun sit down with Admiral Garry Hall — a decorated Rear Admiral who commanded 27 ships, advised the President of the United States, and spent decades at the highest levels of national leadership. The result is one of the most actionable leadership conversations you'll hear all year. Whether you're scaling a startup, managing your first team, or searching for your own leadership identity, Admiral Hall's hard-won lessons from naval aviation and the White House translate directly to entrepreneurship — and to life. What you'll learn in this episode The difference between management and leadership — and why most business owners confuse the two How to lead yourself first — the mental, physical, and moral discipline that separates good leaders from great ones The power of mentorship — the bold ask Admiral Hall made early in his career that changed everything, and how entrepreneurs can do the same Why every business needs a "This Is Who We Are" document — a 1–3 page compass that guides every decision your team makes How to build high-performance teams — lessons from commanding 16,000 sailors across 27 ships on morale, readiness, and accountability How to navigate failure and setbacks — owning mistakes and building resilience without losing forward momentum Learning from extraordinary leaders — why reading biographies and studying great figures is a leadership practice, not just a hobby Fan-favorite moments in this episode Julie earns her call sign "Awesome Actual" — and learns what Admiral Hall means when he uses the word "awesome" as a title of respect. Dom and Julie also put the Admiral through a round of Presidential Superlatives: best hair, best suits, and which president would make the greatest mentor. The Admiral's answers — including reflections on Ronald Reagan and Dwight Eisenhower — are as illuminating as they are entertaining. About Admiral Garry Hall Admiral Garry Hall is a retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral, White House advisor, and the author of Navigating Leadership: Making a Pact with Excellence. He is also the host of the Navigating Life podcast, where he explores character, purpose, and leadership through conversation. Key takeaway Leadership begins with self-leadership. When you examine your behavior — mentally, physically, and morally — you become capable of leading teams and businesses with clarity and integrity. Humility, calmness under pressure, and commitment to excellence are the traits that distinguish effective leaders from average ones. Resources mentioned  Navigating Life Podcast — Apple Podcasts  Navigating Leadership: Making a Pact with Excellence — Amazon  The Creative Entrepreneur — Dom Domasky & Julie Lokun 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.

What does it really take to earn a seat in the rooms most people never enter? Richard Dolan — strategist, confidant, and trusted advisor known as the Legacy Man — has spent decades building genuine relationships with the world's most powerful and influential people, including the Obamas, Oprah, Justin Trudeau, Mike Tyson, Bono, Brad Pitt, Lewis Hamilton, and Drake. In this episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Richard sits down with hosts Dominick Domasky and Julie Lokun to unpack exactly how he did it — and how you can too. What you'll learn in this episode: • Why proximity is power — and how Richard used high-profile events to build relationships before social media existed • The difference between money, wealth, and worth — and which one actually gives you freedom • Why most people search for self-worth when they should be leading with something of worth • The real definition of legacy: it's not what you leave, it's how you live, love, lead, and laugh • What Richard's five-year-old son taught him that no mentor ever could • The "hand that gives, gathers" approach to relationship-building with athletes, celebrities, and world leaders • How to walk into any room — even one full of icons — and belong there • The Ryan Reynolds story: a jaw-dropping lesson in what NOT to do when meeting your heroes • Why meeting celebrities can disappoint you — and how to protect yourself from that emotional trap • What separates Richard's upcoming book, The Legacy Man, from every other success memoir Key quotes from this episode: "Legacy isn't about what you leave. It's shaped by how you lived, how you loved, how you've led, and how you've laughed." "Rather than worrying about self-worth, I'd rather just present something of worth." "Everything you're seeking is seeking you." "Proximity is power." About Richard Dolan: Richard Dolan is a speaker, strategist, and author of the forthcoming book The Legacy Man. He collaborates with the Napoleon Hill Foundation alongside David Meltzer and has advised some of the most recognized names in entertainment, sports, politics, and business. Learn more at richarddolan.com. Connect with Richard Dolan: Instagram: @thericharddolan Website: richarddolan.com Connect with the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast: Website: creativeentrepreneur.com Instagram: @creativeentrepreneurpodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube If this episode moved you, please leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and share it with one entrepreneur in your life who needs to hear it. Your reviews help us reach more creative life forces around the world. LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR YEARLY ACTIVATION IN CHICAGO: www.cre8tivecon.com JOIN US ON THE ROAD- www.cre8tiveconotr.com #RichardDolan #LegacyMan #ProximityIsPower #CreativeEntrepreneurPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Mindset #Legacy #PersonalDevelopment #BusinessPodcast #SuccessStories   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.

️ JOIN US LIVE — Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road) | Boston | July 13th! Don't miss Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky LIVE in Boston for Cre8tive Con OTR — On The Road! Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, get inspired, and take your business to the next level. Grab your ticket now: www.cre8tiveconotr.com The Message Master Reveals Brand Secrets | Glenn Rudin on Messaging That Sells, Simplifies & Inspires What makes a brand message unforgettable? This week, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with branding legend Glenn Rudin — known worldwide as The Message Master — to unpack the art and science of messaging that sticks. With over 40 years of experience helping entrepreneurs and Fortune 500 companies find their authentic voice, Glenn shares the strategies behind iconic brand taglines, the biggest messaging mistakes business owners make, and how to communicate with clarity, confidence, and consistency. Whether you're a solopreneur just starting out or a seasoned entrepreneur ready to scale, this episode is your masterclass in brand messaging. ️ What You'll Learn in This Episode Why "Just Do It," "Because You're Worth It," and "Finger Lickin' Good" still dominate decades later — and what you can steal from their psychology The #1 messaging mistake entrepreneurs make (hint: they wing it every time) How to craft an elevator pitch that doesn't put people to sleep in the first 15 seconds The difference between sounding rehearsed vs. confident — and how to walk that line Why consistency is the secret weapon most business owners ignore What "Post and Ghost" is doing to your brand credibility Glenn's signature framework: Clear. Concise. Consistent. How personal branding works just like product branding — and what that means for you About Glenn Rudin — The Message Master Glenn Rudin has spent over 40 years in product development, branding, packaging, and copywriting for major corporations including Revlon and Shiseido. About a decade ago, he recognized that people could be branded just like products — and turned that insight into a thriving messaging consultancy. His nickname "The Message Master" was born on Clubhouse, where he became famous for crafting powerful brand messages on the spot for business owners worldwide. Connect with Glenn: alwaysbeencreative.com Follow Glenn on LinkedIn: Search Glenn Rudin (8,000+ followers and growing) Key Quotes from This Episode "If you can't say something about your business in 10 or 12 words that gets somebody leaning in — you need to go back to the drawing board." — Glenn Rudin "Show up with intentionality. Not to sell somebody, but so that somebody gets the sense that sounds kind of interesting — tell me more." — Glenn Rudin "Post and Ghost is the last thing in the world you want to do. We can't know you if we don't see you." — Glenn Rudin "Know your audience. If you don't know your avatar, you're going to miss the target every single time." — Julie Lokun We're Coming to BOSTON — July 13th! Join Julie Lokun, Dominick Domasky, and the entire Cre8tive Con community LIVE in Boston for Cre8tive Con OTR — On The Road! This is your chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside fellow creative entrepreneurs in person. Secure your spot before it sells out: www.cre8tiveconotr.com ️ Tools & Resources Mentioned KEAP CRM — The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast's favorite CRM for managing client relationships, automating follow-ups, and growing your business with less chaos. www.keap.com/cre8tive Connect With Us Website: www.cre8tivecon.com ️ Events & Tickets: www.cre8tiveconotr.com ️ Hosted by Julie Lokun & Dominick Domasky Enjoyed This Episode? If this episode gave you a fresh perspective on your brand messaging, please rate, review, and subscribe to the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The more you know, the more your business will grow. Until next time — keep creating. Tags / Keywords: brand messaging, business branding, entrepreneur podcast, elevator pitch tips, marketing strategy, personal branding, Glenn Rudin, Message Master, Julie Lokun, Dominick Domasky, Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, how to market your business, brand consistency, messaging that sells, Cre8tive Con, Cre8tive Con OTR, Boston entrepreneur event, small business marketing, know like trust, tagline strategy 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.

What separates content that gets scrolled past from content that drives real business results? In this episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, host sits down with Julie Lokun — author, attorney turned entrepreneur, and creator of The Mediacasters — to unpack the art and science of conversion-focused content. Julie has helped thousands of entrepreneurs find their voice and monetize their message, and today she's pulling back the curtain on exactly how she does it. In this episode, you'll learn: The core reason most creative entrepreneurs' content fails to convert — and the mindset shift that changes everything Julie's "message-to-market match" framework for creating content that speaks directly to buyer psychology How to identify the emotional triggers that move your audience from curious to committed The difference between content that builds an audience and content that builds a business Practical techniques for repurposing one core idea across multiple platforms without losing its power to convert Why storytelling is the highest-converting content format — and how to use your own story strategically About Julie Lokun: Julie Lokun is a media personality, published author, and founder of The Mediacasters. A former practicing attorney, Julie transitioned into entrepreneurship and has since built a thriving personal brand around helping entrepreneurs amplify their message and turn their expertise into income. She is the host of the Obsessed podcast and a passionate advocate for helping creative entrepreneurs claim their authority. Resources mentioned: Connect with Julie: [email protected] Julie on Instagram: @julielokun The Mediacasters community Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with a fellow creative entrepreneur who needs to hear this message. 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.

Everyone thinks the book will change everything. BookThinkers CEO Nick Hutchison says the real game starts after you hit publish — and most entrepreneurs are playing it completely wrong. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with Nick to expose the #1 author marketing mistake, the AI disclosure crisis rocking the publishing world, why physical books beat audiobooks for brain development, and the SMART reading framework that can transform how you learn and take action. Reality is negotiable. This episode shows you how. ABOUT NICK HUTCHISON: Nick Hutchison CEO & Founder, BookThinkers · Author of Rise of the Reader Nick Hutchison went from self-described non-reader in college to building one of the most respected book marketing agencies in the world. As CEO of BookThinkers — a full-service agency with a team of 12 that serves hundreds of authors annually — Nick has helped thought leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs turn their books into movements. His own book, Rise of the Reader, outlines the reading and implementation system he used to completely redesign his life throughout his 20s. Nick is also a sought-after speaker, content creator, and what he calls a "book matchmaker" — connecting people to the exact book that will solve their current problem. He is a mentor to emerging authors and a relentless advocate for the idea that physical books, read with intention, remain one of the most powerful tools for personal transformation available. bookthinkers.com@bookthinkersBookThinkers LIVE 2026Rise of the Reader "Reality is negotiable. With enough hard work, the right mentors, and the right books — you can build your dream life." — Nick Hutchison, quoting Tim Ferriss WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why most book launches fail and the simple fix authors refuse to use The #1 social media mistake 90% of authors make after publishing The AI-written book crisis: disclosure, lawsuits, and what is coming next How to build your rule of 5 influence circle as an author and entrepreneur Why physical books beat audiobooks for retention and brain development The SMART goal reading method that transforms how you implement what you learn Why Gen Z is the first generation with declining IQ and reading comprehension The books that changed Nick's life and how to find the one that will change yours Jules Rules: epic book launch branding fails including the Oprah disaster How to market yourself 24/7 as an author without feeling salesy TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro — why your book is never the thing 03:30 Nick's story: from non-reader to BookThinkers CEO 8:00 The #1 author marketing mistake and what to do instead 13:00 AI books, disclosure, and the Hachette Shy Girl scandal 19:00 Why Gen Z has declining IQ and the case for physical books 2 5:30 The rule of 5: who is really in your influence circle 31:00 Jules Rules: epic book launch branding fails 8:00 The books that changed Nick's life: Rich Dad, 44:00 The SMART goal reading strategy and the 80/20 action method ABOUT YOUR HOSTS JULIE LOKUN, JD — Media Strategist, Publicist, Author, Mom of Four Julie Lokun is a media strategist, publicist, and attorney who has built brands from the ground up for entrepreneurs, authors, and executives. As co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and founder of The Mediacasters, she specializes in helping visionaries turn their story into influence. She is fiercely passionate about authentic branding, the power of community, and making sure entrepreneurs stop hiding behind their ideas and start owning their stage. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julielokun LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julielokun Website: https://www.cre8tivecontr.com DOMINICK DOMASKY — Publisher, Author, Entrepreneur, Community Builder Dominick Domasky is a publisher, author, and entrepreneur with over 25 years in sales and brand-building. As co-founder of Motivation Champs Publishing and co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, he has helped hundreds of authors bring their books to life and helped them understand that the book is only the beginning. Dom brings grit, humor, and hard-won publishing wisdom to every conversation. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dominickdomasky LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominickdomasky Website: https://www.motivationchamps.com ABOUT OUR GUEST — NICK HUTCHISON Nick Hutchison is the CEO and founder of BookThinkers, a full-service book marketing and promotion agency with a team of 12 that serves hundreds of authors annually. Nick built the agency after going from a self-described non-reader in college to becoming obsessed with personal development books and the way they could redesign a person's reality. As the author of Rise of the Reader, Nick outlines the exact reading and implementation system he used to completely transform his life throughout his 20s. He is a sought-after speaker, content creator, and passionate book matchmaker — connecting people to the exact book that will solve their current problem. Nick is a relentless advocate for physical book reading, authentic authorship, and the belief that reality is negotiable for anyone willing to put in the work. Website: https://www.bookthinkers.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers BookThinkers LIVE 2026: https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2026 Rise of the Reader: Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold Want a personal book recommendation from Nick? DM @bookthinkers on Instagram with the problem you are trying to solve right now and his team will match you with the perfect book. BOOKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Rise of the Reader by Nick Hutchison: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss Limitless by Jim Kwik Unlimited Memory by Kevin Horsley Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Who is Nick Hutchison and what is BookThinkers? Nick Hutchison is the CEO and founder of BookThinkers, a full-service book marketing agency with a team of 12 that serves hundreds of authors every year. He is also the author of Rise of the Reader. Visit bookthinkers.com or DM @bookthinkers on Instagram for a personal book recommendation. What is the biggest mistake authors make after publishing? Not promoting consistently enough. Most authors post about their book two or three times at launch and then go silent. Nick argues that if your book genuinely helps people, not promoting it is actually selfish — you are keeping people in pain longer than necessary. Consistent value-driven content is the only sustainable book marketing strategy. Is it okay to use AI to write a book? Nick shared that 83% of potential book buyers say they would want their money back if they discovered an author used AI without disclosure. His advice: use AI for brainstorming and refining your thinking, but never let it do the thinking for you, and always disclose. People want to buy from people. Why does Nick prefer physical books over audiobooks? Between 60 and 80% of brain inputs are visual. When you listen to an audiobook while driving or exercising, that visual bandwidth is already occupied and you absorb far less. Physical books are an act of mono-tasking — one input, full focus, lengthened attention span. What is the SMART goal reading method? Before reading any book, write a SMART goal on the inside cover. Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Written, and Time-bound. Then do an 80/20 analysis at the end to identify the highest-leverage actions to implement. Re-read your goal at the start of each reading session so your brain knows what to filter for. What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is an entrepreneur event hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky in Boston on July 13, 2026. Designed for creators, authors, entrepreneurs, and brand-builders who want to connect and grow in person. Get tickets at https://www.cre8tivecontr.com What is BookThinkers LIVE 2026? BookThinkers LIVE 2026 is Nick Hutchison's flagship live event in Boston on July 11 and 12, 2026. Speakers include Jim Kwik, John Lee Dumas, Evan Carmichael, and more. Get tickets at https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2026 What books does Nick recommend for entrepreneurs? Rich Dad Poor Dad by Kiyosaki, The 4-Hour Workweek by Ferriss, Limitless by Jim Kwik, Unlimited Memory by Kevin Horsley, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, and his own Rise of the Reader. DM @bookthinkers on Instagram for a personalized recommendation. LINKS AND RESOURCES BookThinkers: https://www.bookthinkers.com BookThinkers LIVE 2026 — Boston July 11 and 12, speakers include Jim Kwik, John Lee Dumas, Evan Carmichael and more: https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2026 Cre8tive Con — Boston July 13, 2026, hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky: https://www.cre8tivecontr.com Keap — Our favorite business automation tool: https://www.keap.com/cre8tive Nick Hutchison on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers Julie Lokun on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julielokun Dominick Domasky on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dominickdomasky 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.

Follow us on YOUTUBE! Cre8tive Con - YouTube @cre8tivecon What if you could turn a $10 "ante" into a seat at the table for the next Amazon or Google? In this episode, Gerry Hays, CEO of Doriot, joins hosts Dominick Domasky and Julie Lokun to unveil a revolutionary new model called Venture Staking, which bridges the gap between community-driven philanthropy and high-stakes venture capital. Gerry shares how Doriot is democratizing the "closed-door" world of Silicon Valley, allowing everyday people to seed the next big idea for the price of a cup of coffee. Whether you are a creator looking for non-equity funding or an aspiring investor looking to build a "wealth-cultivation" mindset, this conversation provides the blueprint for getting into the proximity of innovation. Quick Links Guest Website: www.doriot.com Guest: Gerry Hays, JD (CEO of Doriot & Professor at the Kelley School of Business) Host Info: Dominick Domasky & Julie Lokun Event Mentioned: Cre8tive Con Key Takeaways & "Jules Rules" Venture Staking 101: Learn how a "give-first" grant model allows communities to support founders without immediately taking equity or debt. The "Asymmetric Gap": Why watching a founder perform through weekly updates is the best due diligence you can do before investing larger sums. Wealth Follows Innovation: Why being in proximity to new ideas is more important than having a massive bank account. Red Flags: Why high-pressure closes and "deadlines" are often a sign to walk away. The Power of Humans: Jerry’s #1 tip for what to invest in—don't just follow the tech; follow the human ingenuity and drive behind it. Time-Stamped Highlights [02:15] The Indiana Connection: How a Kelley School of Business professor became a "kindred spirit" to the show. [05:40] The Winning Pitch: Gerry explains the concept of raising $100k from 3,000 supporters. [09:12] The "Amazon Math": How $10 in 1993 could have changed your life today. [14:30] Discoverers vs. Founders: How to get involved with Doriot as an investor or a creator. [17:45] Inside Baseball: The Sam Altman/Stripe story and the power of small checks. [21:10] Cultivating vs. Consuming: Shifting your mindset from "Get Rich Quick" to "Seed the Future." [26:50] Jules Rules: Red flags to look for when someone asks for your money. [30:15] The Chocolate Bar Chemist: A real-world example of why you should never bet against passion. Suggested Episode Titles The $10 Millionaire: How "Venture Staking" is Disrupting Silicon Valley From Philanthropy to Profit: Jerry Hays on Democratizing Startup Investing Why You Don’t Need an MBA to Invest Like a VC with Doriot’s Jerry Hays The Wealth Mindset: Cultivating Your Future Through Community Grants Venture Capital for the Rest of Us: A Masterclass with Jerry Hays Frequently Asked Questions Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun, JD, is a master brand strategist, author, and the founder of The Big Better Brand. Known for her "media-first" approach, she helps entrepreneurs and influencers scale their visibility through podcasting, public speaking, and strategic storytelling. As a co-host of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, she brings a sharp legal mind and a creative eye to the world of business growth. Learn more: www.bigbetterbrand.com Who is Dom Domasky? Dom Domasky is an inspirational author, speaker, and the founder of Motivation Champs. After navigating the highs and lows of business ownership (including a very famous "lima bean" story), Dom dedicated his career to sharing stories of resilience. He specializes in helping individuals find their "inner champ" and turn failures into fuel for future success. Learn more: www.motivationchamps.com What is Cre8tive Con OTR? Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road) is a high-energy, immersive networking and educational experience for entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional stuffy conferences, it focuses on real-world skills like the 30-second pitch, brand building, and community investment. Join the Movement: Catch the next stop in Boston! Get tickets and info at www.cre8tiveconotr.com. How do the hosts manage their business automation? To keep the podcast, conferences, and coaching businesses running smoothly, Julie and Dom rely on Keap. It is their favorite all-in-one automation tool for managing CRM, email marketing, and lead captures, allowing them to spend less time on admin and more time creating. Special Offer: Check out their preferred setup at www.keap.com/cre8tive. 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.

CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE TOOL THAT HAS BUILT OUR BUSINESS AND AUTOMATED OUR PIPELINES! www.keap.com/cre8tive Is College Worth It for Entrepreneurs? Debt, Startups, AI & The Future of Success Should entrepreneurs go to college — or skip the degree and start building their dream business now? In this compelling episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun, JD and Dominick Domasky tackle one of the most searched questions among aspiring business owners, creators, startup founders, freelancers, and Gen Z entrepreneurs: “Is college worth it anymore?” As artificial intelligence, self-education, online learning, and creator-driven businesses reshape the economy, the traditional college path is being challenged like never before. With over $1.7 trillion in student loan debt burdening Americans, many entrepreneurs are asking whether a four-year degree is still the smartest investment — or the biggest obstacle to financial freedom and innovation. Inspired by Julie Lokun’s viral article, “Should I Go to College? Debt, Entrepreneurship & The Voices Who Challenged the Norm,” this episode explores the changing relationship between education, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity in 2026 and beyond. Julie and Dominick discuss: Whether college helps or hurts entrepreneurial success Gary Vaynerchuk’s stance on higher education and student debt Why many entrepreneurs are choosing self-education over traditional degrees The rise of AI learning tools, online certifications, apprenticeships, and bootcamps How branding, podcasting, content creation, and freelancing create modern career opportunities When degrees still matter in industries like medicine, engineering, and law Why risk tolerance and self-awareness are essential for entrepreneurial success This episode is essential listening for: Entrepreneurs Startup founders College students Business owners Creators and influencers Freelancers Coaches and consultants Parents helping students choose a career path Anyone questioning the future of higher education What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Student Loan Debt Impacts Entrepreneurship Massive student debt can limit freedom, creativity, and the ability to take entrepreneurial risks. Julie and Dominick discuss how financial pressure often delays business ownership and innovation. The Real ROI of a College Degree Does a degree guarantee financial success anymore? This conversation examines whether traditional higher education still provides value in a rapidly changing digital economy. Alternative Education Paths for Entrepreneurs Discover how entrepreneurs are using: AI learning tools YouTube education Online courses Mentorship programs Podcasts Coding bootcamps Apprenticeships to build successful businesses without traditional degrees. Entrepreneurship in the Creator Economy Learn how modern entrepreneurs are building careers through: Personal branding Podcasting Content marketing Social media Freelancing Digital products Online communities When College Still Matters While entrepreneurship often rewards execution over credentials, some professions still require formal education. Julie and Dominick discuss where degrees remain essential and where they may no longer be necessary. Key Takeaways Student loan debt can reduce entrepreneurial freedom and delay wealth creation. A college degree does not guarantee career success or financial security. Self-education and digital learning are reshaping modern entrepreneurship. AI and technology are disrupting traditional education systems. Successful entrepreneurs focus on execution, adaptability, branding, and innovation. The future belongs to creators, problem-solvers, and lifelong learners. Resources Mentioned Julie Lokun’s article: Should I Go to College? Debt, Entrepreneurship & The Voices Who Challenged the Norm Gary Vaynerchuk’s views on entrepreneurship and college Alternative education pathways including online learning, mentorships, bootcamps, and AI-powered education About The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is a leading business and entrepreneurship podcast for creators, innovators, founders, coaches, and visionaries who want to build impactful brands and profitable businesses. Hosted by Julie Lokun, founder of Cre8tive Con, the show features: Entrepreneur interviews Business growth strategies Branding and PR insights Marketing trends Podcasting advice Personal development for entrepreneurs Real stories from business leaders and creators Whether you are launching a startup, scaling a business, building a personal brand, or pivoting careers, this podcast delivers actionable insights to help you grow. Subscribe to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast Available on: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music iHeartRadio Subscribe for weekly episodes on entrepreneurship, branding, AI, marketing, creativity, and business growth. Join Cre8tive Con Live Ready to elevate your business, build meaningful connections, and learn from world-class entrepreneurs? Join us live at Cre8tive Con: Cre8tive Con The premier conference for entrepreneurs, creators, speakers, podcasters, authors, and innovators looking to grow their influence and impact. 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.

JOIN US LIVE IN BOSTON Cre8tive Con: OTR — Boston - www.cre8tiveconotr.com Why Most Entrepreneurs Fail to Scale The Benjamin Hardy Effect: Are You 2x-ing or Just Staying Busy? In our latest episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun and Dom Domasky break down the psychological barriers to success. Using the framework established by Dr. Benjamin Hardy, we explore why the "safety net" you’ve built is actually a trap. If you are a business owner in the Boston area, it’s time to stop managing time and start managing your future. The Science of Scaling suggests that if you want to reach a goal in 10 years, you should ask yourself why you can’t do it in six months. Dr. Benjamin Hardy emphasizes that "10x is easier than 2x," and on this episode, we apply that brutal honesty to our own businesses. Local Spotlight: Cre8tive Con Boston (July 13th) Why does location matter? Because proximity is power. We are bringing the heat to Boston, Massachusetts, for Cre8tive Con. Location: Boston, MA Date: July 13th Register: www.cre8tiveconotr.com Are you ready to burn the safety net? Register for Cre8tive Con Boston Here Are you busy, or are you actually moving the needle? Today, we’re calling out the "safety net" mentality that keeps entrepreneurs stuck in mediocrity. We discuss why a full calendar is often a mask for avoiding the one bold move that changes everything. The Dr. Benjamin Hardy Philosophy: We explore the concepts found in the work of Dr. Benjamin Hardy, specifically focusing on how to shorten your 10-year goals into 90-day sprints by raising your standards and narrowing your focus. Dropping the Floor: Why having a "fallback plan" is actually holding your business back. To reach the next level, you have to remove the option to fail. The Art of "No": Dom opens up about the struggle of being "too nice" and how unsolicited manuscripts and non-serious leads are the ultimate time-wasters. Peak Energy vs. Time Management: Why Julie believes color-coding your calendar is a crutch. We break down energy management for parents and busy professionals. Automation with Keap: How we are using Keap to eliminate manual tasks and maintain flow without the social media "time suck." Key Takeaways from Dr. Benjamin Hardy We are currently studying Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s principles on scaling and 10x growth. One of the biggest shifts we’ve made is realizing that Dr. Benjamin Hardy is right: you don't need more time; you need more skin in the game. By applying the "Science of Scaling," we are learning to stop the "inch-by-inch" growth and start taking exponential leaps. Connect with Your Hosts Dom Domasky: Founder of Motivation Champs. www.motivationchamps.com Julie Lokun: Founder of Big Better Brand. www.bigbetterbrand.com Cre8tive Con FAQs What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is the premier gathering for creative entrepreneurs, authors, and business leaders looking to scale their brands. It’s an immersive experience focused on execution over theory. When and where is the next event? We are heading to Boston! Join us on July 13th. You can grab tickets at www.cre8tiveconotr.com. Is this event for beginners or established business owners? Both! Whether you are just starting out or looking to apply Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s scaling principles to a 7-figure business, the strategies shared in Boston will help you "drop the floor" and level up. Will Julie and Dom be there in person? Absolutely. We’ll be leading sessions, recording live, and networking with all of you. See you in Boston! Julie Lokun, JD | Founder of Big Better Brand Julie Lokun is a powerhouse entrepreneur, author, and the visionary founder of Big Better Brand. With a legal background and a shark-like instinct for branding, Julie specializes in helping entrepreneurs find their "why" and execute it with ruthless precision. As a devotee of Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s "10x" methodology, she is known for her "drop the floor" approach—eliminating the safety nets that keep business owners playing small. Julie is the lead architect behind Cre8tive Con, bringing her high-octane energy to the Boston stage on July 13th. When she isn't coaching elite brands or hosting the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, she is managing a household of four boys and proving that "work-life balance" is less about time management and more about energy management. Website: www.bigbetterbrand.com Expertise: Brand Identity, Strategic Scaling, Podcast Growth. Dominick Domasky | Founder of Motivation Champs Dominick Domasky is a professional "YES" man turned "NO" strategist, author, and the founder of Motivation Champs. After years of navigating the highs and lows of the sales world, Dom has dedicated his career to sharing the stories of the "underdogs" and helping people turn their failures into fuel. Through his work with Dr. Benjamin Hardy's scaling principles, Dom focuses on "raising the floor" by helping entrepreneurs eliminate the low-level tasks that drain their income-generating potential. As a publisher and media strategist, Dom helps authors and speakers get their message to the masses without the "fluff." He is the co-host of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and will be co-leading the charge at Cre8tive Con in Boston this July. Dom’s mission is simple: to help you stop lying to yourself about your progress and start executing like a champion. Website: www.motivationchamps.com Expertise: Storytelling, Motivational Speaking, Publishing, Sales Strategy. 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.

Stop Being the Employee of Your Own Business: Exit Without Exiting with The Real Jason Duncan Are you building a business of freedom or a personal prison? In this high-impact episode, "The Real" Jason Duncan reveals how to dismantle the "Hero Syndrome" and transition from a burnt-out founder to a visionary leader who lives a lifestyle of "exit without exiting." The Path to Entrepreneurial Freedom What happens when an unemployed school teacher builds a multi-million dollar empire, only to realize he’s become a prisoner to his own success? Jason Duncan, founder of the Exeter Club and a renowned TEDx speaker, joins the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast to share his journey from the grind to total business liberation. Jason dives deep into the psychology of the "Hero Syndrome"—the dangerous ego-trap where founders believe they must save the day every day. If your business depends on your heartbeat to survive, you don't own a business; you own a high-stress job. Key Takeaways from The Real Jason Duncan: The Hero Syndrome: Why being the "savior" of your company is actually a selfish act that endangers your employees' livelihoods. Exit Without Exiting: How to structure your company so it provides the lifestyle you want without having to sell your legacy. The 3-Tier Org Chart: A breakdown of Jason’s XOS Methodology: The Delivery Team: Executing the core service. The Support Squad: Managing the back-office operations. The A-Team: Empowered leaders who make decisions for you, not just take tasks from you. Real vs. Fake: A candid conversation on authenticity in the age of AI, "contrived authenticity," and why choosing the hard path early makes life easy later. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Website: TheRealJasonDuncan.com Mastermind: The Exeter Club Newsletter: What’s Real with The Real Jason Duncan (Weekly truths on business and life) Event: Cre8tive Con Top 3 Tips to Reclaim Your Time: Awareness is Step One: Recognize if you are addicted to the "white horse" feeling of saving the day. Date Your Life: Shift your focus from EBITDA to life satisfaction. Ask yourself: "What would I do if I had 90 days off this year?" Audit Your Decisions: Stop delegating tasks and start delegating decision-making authority to your A-Team. "The purpose of business ownership is not to own the business. It's so that the business can provide the lifestyle for you and your family that you actually want to live." — Jason Duncan Connect With Our Guest & Partners The Real Jason Duncan: Discover how to reclaim your freedom at www.therealjasonduncan.com. Get Social: Follow Jason’s daily insights on Instagram @therealjasonduncan. Scale Your Business: Stop the manual grind. We use and recommend Keap to automate our sales and marketing. Get started at www.keap.com/cre8tive. Cre8tive Con: Join the movement and see speakers like Jason live at www.cre8tivecon.com. Motivation Champs: Elevate your mindset and your story at www.motivationchamps.com. Big Better Brand: Build a brand that stands out in a "fake" world at www.bigbetterbrand.co. Podcast Hub: Catch up on all episodes at www.creativeentrepreneurpod.com. ️ In This Episode, We Discuss: The Latchkey Generation: How Gen X’s "figure it out" upbringing created the ultimate entrepreneurs—and the ultimate "Hero Syndrome." The $2 Million Swing: Jason shares the painful lesson of losing $1M in profit because the business was too dependent on his personal energy. Hard Now, Easy Later: The philosophy of choosing the difficult path of systemization today to enjoy a "chill" lifestyle tomorrow. Nostalgia & Perspective: Why Jason would trade a billion dollars to relive the early days with his family, and how that drives his business philosophy. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What does "Exit Without Exiting" actually mean? It is the process of removing yourself from the daily operations of your business so that it functions profitably without your direct involvement. You retain ownership and profits but gain total freedom of time. What is the "Hero Syndrome"? The Hero Syndrome is the ego-driven habit of a founder "saving the day" for their team. While it feels good to be needed, it prevents employees from growing and makes the business fragile. How do I know if my business is too dependent on me? The "Vacation Test": If you can't turn off your phone for two weeks without the business losing money or momentum, you are a prisoner to your business. Why should I use a CRM like Keap for my creative business? Creative entrepreneurs often struggle with follow-ups and organization. Keap automates your lead capture, invoicing, and client communication, which is the first step toward the "automation" phase of Jason's XOS methodology. How can I see Jason Duncan speak live? Jason is a regular keynote speaker at events like Cre8tive Con. Keep an eye on www.cre8tivecon.com for upcoming dates and tickets! "If you choose hard early, it's easy later. If you choose easy early, it's hard later. Choose your 'hard' wisely." — The Real Jason Duncan Don't forget to Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Help other entrepreneurs find their freedom by leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts. 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.

What does it take to outwit, outplay, and outlast—not just on a remote island, but in life and business? In this electrifying episode of The Creative Entrepreneur, Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with Survivor Season 49 winner Savannah Louie for a raw, strategic, and deeply human conversation about resilience, identity, and the psychology of winning. FOLLOW SAVANNAH on INSTAGRAM: (4) Instagram -- @sahhvz Savannah takes us behind the scenes of her Survivor journey—sharing the mental frameworks, emotional discipline, and intuitive decision-making that carried her to victory. But beyond the million-dollar win, this conversation dives into something even more powerful: how adversity sharpens clarity, how storytelling builds influence, and how creatives and entrepreneurs can leverage their unique voice to stand out in a crowded world. From navigating alliances to trusting her instincts under pressure, Savannah reveals how the same skills that win reality TV can be applied to building a brand, leading with authenticity, and staying grounded when everything is on the line. Whether you're building a business, a personal brand, or simply trying to find your edge, this episode will challenge how you think about strategy, courage, and what it truly means to win. In this episode, you’ll learn: The mindset shifts that helped Savannah win Survivor 49 How to make high-stakes decisions with confidence Why emotional intelligence is a competitive advantage The power of storytelling in building influence and connection How creatives can “outplay” the competition without losing authenticity The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast – FAQs What is The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosted by Julie Lokun, features conversations with top entrepreneurs, creators, authors, and thought leaders who share actionable strategies for building powerful brands and businesses. Who is Julie Lokun?Julie Lokun, JD, is a media strategist, founder of The Mediacasters, podcast host, and communications expert known for helping entrepreneurs amplify their voice through podcasting, publishing, and speaking. Who are the guests on the podcast?Guests include high-level entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, industry disruptors, and notable figures such as reality TV winners, media personalities, and business leaders. What topics does the podcast cover?The show explores entrepreneurship, branding, storytelling, media strategy, personal development, and scaling influence in a digital-first world. Where can I listen to the podcast?The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is available on all major platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. How can I be a guest on the podcast?Potential guests can apply through Julie Lokun’s media company, The Mediacasters, or connect via her professional platforms for consideration. Julie Lokun – FAQs Who is Julie Lokun?Julie Lokun is the founder of Cre8tive Con, The Mediacasters, and host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. She is a media expert specializing in helping entrepreneurs build authority through omni-media platforms. What does Julie Lokun specialize in?Julie specializes in PR, podcasting, brand amplification, content strategy, and helping entrepreneurs become visible through media and speaking opportunities. What is The Mediacasters?The Mediacasters is an omni-media company founded by Julie Lokun that helps entrepreneurs scale their voice through podcasting, publishing, PR, and strategic media placements. Does Julie Lokun speak at events?Yes. Julie is a sought-after speaker who presents on media strategy, entrepreneurship, branding, and leveraging platforms for growth. How can I work with Julie Lokun?You can connect with Julie through her media company or through Cre8tive Con for collaborations, speaking, and brand strategy opportunities. Dominick Domasky – FAQs Who is Dominick Domasky?Dominick Domasky is a bestselling author, CEO of Media Champs Publishing, and COO of Cre8tive Con. He is known for helping entrepreneurs share their stories through collaborative books and media. What is Media Champs Publishing?Media Champs Publishing is a platform that helps entrepreneurs become published authors and expand their authority through storytelling and book collaborations. What is Dominick Domasky’s role in Cre8tive Con?Dominick serves as Chief Operating Officer (COO), helping lead the vision, execution, and growth of the conference and its expanding ecosystem. What topics does Dominick Domasky speak on?He speaks on storytelling, personal branding, overcoming failure, publishing, and building influence through authorship. Cre8tive Con – FAQs www.cre8tivecon.com What is Cre8tive Con?Cre8tive Con is a premier conference designed for entrepreneurs, creators, and thought leaders looking to elevate their brand, voice, and business through media, storytelling, and strategic connections. Who should attend Cre8tive Con?Entrepreneurs, podcasters, authors, coaches, speakers, and business owners who want to grow their visibility, influence, and revenue. What can I expect at Cre8tive Con?Attendees experience keynote speakers, live podcasting, networking, brand-building workshops, and high-impact media opportunities. Where is Cre8tive Con held?Cre8tive Con is hosted in major cities, with flagship events like Chicago serving as central hubs for entrepreneurs nationwide. Who are the speakers at Cre8tive Con?Speakers include industry leaders, bestselling authors, media experts, and high-profile entrepreneurs such as David Meltzer and other influential voices. How can I become a speaker at Cre8tive Con?Speaker submissions can be directed to the Cre8tive Con team, with Chris Cushing serving as the primary contact for speaker opportunities. What makes Cre8tive Con different from other conferences?Cre8tive Con focuses on omni-media exposure, offering attendees real opportunities to build their brand through podcasting, publishing, and on-stage visibility. Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road) – FAQs www.cre8tiveconotr.com What is Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road)?Cre8tive Con OTR is the mobile extension of Cre8tive Con, bringing high-impact networking, content creation, and media opportunities directly to communities across the country. How is Cre8tive Con OTR different from the main event?While Cre8tive Con is a large-scale conference, OTR events are more intimate, localized experiences designed for deeper connections and hands-on collaboration. Who should attend Cre8tive Con OTR events?Entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals who want accessible, high-value networking and media exposure without attending a large conference. What happens at a Cre8tive Con OTR event?Events may include live podcast recordings, networking sessions, workshops, brand strategy discussions, and collaborative content creation. Where are Cre8tive Con OTR events held?OTR events travel to various cities, making it easier for entrepreneurs nationwide to participate in the Cre8tive Con experience. How can I host or sponsor a Cre8tive Con OTR event?Interested partners can connect through the Cre8tive Con OTR website to explore hosting, sponsorship, and collaboration opportunities. APPLY TO BE A GUEST ON THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR PODCAST - www.creativeentrepreneurguest.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.

If you're an entrepreneur, creative, or business owner looking to build authority, grow your brand, and increase visibility, this episode is a comprehensive guide to modern publishing. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, host  Dominick Domasky, founder of Motivation Champs, explores the different types of publishing available today—and how to strategically use them to scale your business. From traditional publishing to self-publishing, hybrid publishing, podcasting, and digital media, this conversation breaks down how entrepreneurs are leveraging content as a powerful tool for brand growth, credibility, and revenue generation. What You’ll Learn The key differences between traditional, self, and hybrid publishing How to choose the right publishing path for your business Why publishing a book builds instant authority and credibility How podcasting serves as a modern publishing platform How to turn your story into scalable intellectual property Strategies to leverage publishing for speaking, media, and business growth How platforms like Motivation Champs help amplify entrepreneurial voices Listen and Subscribe Listen to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast:https://www.creativeentrepreneurpod.com Featured Guest Dominick Domasky is the founder of Motivation Champs, a publishing and personal development platform designed to help entrepreneurs and thought leaders share their stories and expand their influence. Learn more:https://www.motivationchamps.com Resources and Links Cre8tive Con:https://www.cre8tivecon.com The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast:https://www.creativeentrepreneurpod.com Motivation Champs:https://www.motivationchamps.com Apply to Be a Guest:https://www.creativeentrepreneurguest.com Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is a premier live event and business conference designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners who want to amplify their voice, build their brand, and scale their business through media, publishing, and speaking opportunities. Learn more about Cre8tive Con:https://www.cre8tivecon.com Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun, JD is a media strategist, podcast host, and founder of The Mediacasters and Cre8tive Con. She is an expert in helping entrepreneurs elevate their brand through podcasting, publishing, and speaking, and is the host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. Listen to Julie Lokun’s podcast:https://www.creativeentrepreneurpod.com Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick Domasky is the founder of Motivation Champs, a platform focused on personal development, publishing, and empowering individuals to share their stories. He works with entrepreneurs and leaders to build authority through books, media, and speaking. Visit Motivation Champs:https://www.motivationchamps.com How can I become a guest on The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners who want to share their story, expertise, and insights can apply to be featured on the show. Apply here:https://www.creativeentrepreneurguest.com Why is publishing important for entrepreneurs? Publishing—whether through books, podcasts, or digital media—is one of the most effective ways to build authority, increase visibility, and create multiple revenue streams. It allows entrepreneurs to position themselves as thought leaders and expand their audience. 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.

Stop Playing Small: Rewriting Your Money Story in the AI Era with Jen Fontanilla Are you tired of the "starving artist" narrative? Somewhere along the way, entrepreneurs were sold the lie that if you follow your passion, you must struggle—and that money is optional. Today, we are ripping that narrative to shreds. Joining hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky is Jen Fontanilla, a certified money coach, TEDx speaker, and former financial advisor who has worked with industry titans like Disney, Sony, and Warner Brothers. Jen walked away from the traditional financial world to help visionaries stop playing small and start charging the premium prices they actually deserve. In this episode, we dive deep into the "Woo and the Work"—the intersection of subconscious money stories and practical business strategy. Whether you're a freelancer looking to ditch the 9-to-5 or a seasoned business owner ready to scale, this episode is your roadmap to financial confidence. Inside The Episode: The Woo vs. The Work: Why strategy alone won't save you if your subconscious money blocks are still running the show. The "Gamification" of Success: How Jen leveraged faith and a "screw it, let's try it" attitude to land major corporate accounts. Transitioning from W2 to 1099: The honest (and sometimes messy) truth about leaving your job, managing equity, and building a sustainable nest egg. Pricing Your Worth: How to stop talking yourself out of your rates and start owning your expertise. The Power of Language: Why "fancy" marketing kills sales and how speaking your client's "raw" language converts more leads. Connect with Our Guest: Official Website: www.jenfontanilla.com LinkedIn: Connect with Jen Fontanilla Instagram: @itsjenfontanilla Join the Community: AMPED Ready to surround yourself with high-vibe creatives? Join AMPED, the premier online community for creative entrepreneurs hosted by Jen Fontanilla. It’s where lifestyle meets legacy. Join here: www.cre8tiveamped.com FAQ: Meet Your Hosts & The Brand Who are Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky? Julie and Dominick are the powerhouse duo behind the Creative Entrepreneur movement. They are building a global lifestyle brand dedicated to the idea that creativity and profitability are not mutually exclusive. What is the "Creative Entrepreneur" lifestyle brand? It’s more than a podcast; it's an ecosystem for growth. Through their platform www.cre8tivecon.com, they provide resources, live events, and media strategies to help entrepreneurs move from "grind" to "intention." Where can I find more from the hosts? Julie Lokun: Media strategist, publicist, and founder of Big Better Brand. Visit www.bigbetterbrand.com. Dominick Domasky: Author, speaker, and the driving force behind Motivation Champs. Visit www.motivationchamps.com. Key Takeaway from Jules Rules: The Do’s and Don’ts of Vacationing: DO: Overpack! Have an outfit for every occasion. DO: Research your food spots and prepay excursions to save for more margaritas. DON'T: Go without an itinerary. As Jen says, "Everything is figureoutable," but don't spend your vacation time planning the vacation! "Your income does not rise to your effort. It rises to your self-worth and your strategy." Subscribe & Review: If this episode helped you rewrite your money story, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with a fellow creator! Keep creating. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. Frequently Asked Questions The Creative Entrepreneur Leadership Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun is a powerhouse media strategist, publicist, and author. As the founder of Big Better Brand, she helps entrepreneurs find their voice and amplify their authority in crowded markets. Julie is a mom of four and a former fashion model who brings a high-energy, "no-excuses" approach to business growth. Website: www.bigbetterbrand.com Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick Domasky is the founder of Motivation Champs, an inspirational platform dedicated to helping people overcome failure and find their inner champion. An author and speaker, Dominick’s mission is to provide the "spark" entrepreneurs need to keep moving forward when things get tough. Website: www.motivationchamps.com What is the Creative Entrepreneur Lifestyle Brand? Julie and Dominick are building more than just a podcast; they are creating a global lifestyle brand for visionaries who refuse to choose between their art and their bank account. Through their hub at www.cre8tivecon.com, they offer a community where creators are treated like CEOs and CEOs are encouraged to think like creators. Community & Guest Expert What is AMPED? AMPED is a high-level online community for creative entrepreneurs hosted by Jen Fontanilla. It focuses on the "creative lifestyle," providing a space for entrepreneurs to connect, scale their businesses, and master their mindset in the AI era. Join the community: www.cre8tiveamped.com What does Jen Fontanilla specialize in? Jen is a certified money coach and TEDx speaker with over 25 years of experience. She specializes in helping entrepreneurs bridge the gap between "the Woo" (subconscious money beliefs) and "the Work" (business strategy and pricing). She is the expert you call when you are ready to stop playing small and start charging your true worth. Website: www.jenfontanilla.com How can I learn more about the hosts' live events? You can find information regarding upcoming workshops, networking events, and the annual conference by visiting www.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.

LISTEN TO THE GET OBSESSED PODCAST EPISODE HERE- Get Obsessed : With Living Your Best Life - Podcast - Apple Podcasts On this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, host Julie Lokun, JD shares a featured episode from her hit show, Get Obsessed Podcast, co-hosted with Mika Altidor. This conversation delivers bold, unfiltered insights on relationships, identity, and transformation—core elements that directly impact how entrepreneurs show up in business and life. Featuring Kerry Brett, author of Shot at Love and host of the Shot at Love Podcast, this episode explores how dating has evolved in the digital era and what it truly takes to build meaningful, aligned relationships. What You’ll Learn Why modern dating is rooted in branding, positioning, and confidence How self-worth directly impacts relationship outcomes The truth behind ghosting, dating apps, and emotional availability How to approach dating with a growth mindset Why authenticity—not perfection—is the key to connection Why This Episode Matters For entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives, personal growth is not optional—it is foundational. This episode bridges the gap between business success and personal fulfillment, showing how the same mindset required to build a brand is required to build meaningful relationships. About the Hosts and Brands Julie Lokun, JD is a media strategist, podcast host, and founder of The Mediacasters, helping entrepreneurs amplify their voices through podcasting, publishing, and speaking. www.bigbetterbrand.com www.dragonflypodcasting.com Dominick Domasky is the CEO of Media Champs Publishing and a leader in helping individuals share powerful stories that inspire transformation. www.motivationchamps.com Cre8tive Con is a premier conference experience for entrepreneurs, creators, and thought leaders, bringing together top voices in media, branding, and business growth. www.cre8tivecon.com Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the Get Obsessed Podcast? The Get Obsessed Podcast is a personal development and lifestyle show focused on relationships, mindset, growth, and living boldly. It challenges listeners to step outside their comfort zones and fully embrace transformation.Visit: https://www.getobsessedpodcast.com How can I be a guest on the Get Obsessed Podcast? You can apply to be a featured guest by visiting:https://www.getobsessedguest.comThe show highlights thought leaders, experts, and individuals with powerful stories to share. Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun, JD is a communications expert, podcast host, and founder of The Mediacasters. She specializes in helping entrepreneurs elevate their visibility through media, messaging, and storytelling. Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick Domasky is the CEO of Media Champs Publishing and a recognized leader in publishing and personal branding. He helps individuals turn their stories into impactful books and platforms. What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is a high-impact conference designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, and business leaders looking to grow their brands and expand their influence. It features top-tier speakers, networking opportunities, and actionable strategies for success.Visit: https://www.cre8tivecon.com How does this episode connect to entrepreneurship? This episode highlights how personal development, confidence, and self-awareness directly influence business success. The way you show up in relationships often mirrors how you show up in leadership and entrepreneurship. 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.

LOVE THIS PODCAST? LEAVE US A REVIEW ON APPLE: Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth, Strategy and Monetization - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Reviews are what fuel us on The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast! We are so grateful for each and every one of you! AND we will be reading our favorite reviews on the next episodes of TCE!  Most people know Shawn Finnegan as the powerhouse behind some of the fastest-growing brands in the country—think Crumbl Cookies, Swig, and Tax Hive. But before he was partnering with "Shark" Kevin O’Leary, he was staring at a $1.5 million loss and a bank account that couldn't cover payroll. In this episode, Shawn joins Dom and Julie to get real about the "ugly" side of serial entrepreneurship. He breaks down why failure is just a collection of data points, how he conquered the "pounce per square inch" pressure of debt, and why he attributes his biggest breakthroughs to being a "girl dad." The Highlights: The $1.5M Disaster: Shawn tells the story of his first live events business in 2009—how a hurricane, a $70k speaking fee for David Bach, and a room full of empty chairs taught him everything he knows about persistence. Pitching Mr. Wonderful: What it’s actually like to text Kevin O'Leary and pitch a business that turns into a massive partnership. The "Micro-Intention" Trick: Shawn’s secret for networking: pausing at the door of every room to decide exactly how he wants to show up. (It’s the difference between hiding on your phone and making a million-dollar connection.) The Cookie Debate: We settle the score on the best and worst cookies. From the "angel-singing" Dubai Chocolate Brownie to why Shawn refuses to eat a dry Chips Ahoy. Lessons from his Daughters: A powerful story about how Shawn’s 19-year-old daughter taught him more about human connection than any business mentor ever could. Favorite Moments & Quotes: On Resilience: "Every storm runs out of rain. You just have to put your shoes on the next day and go back to work." On Authenticity: "If you paint a picture that everything is cotton candy and rainbows, people won’t believe you. Transparency is your friend." On Strategy: "I realized my number one failure wasn't operations or marketing—it was that I stopped building relationships. I vowed that day to get comfortable being uncomfortable." Mentioned in this Episode: Tax Hive: How Shawn and Kevin O'Leary are helping small business owners stop overpaying the IRS. www.taxhive.com Crumbl Cookies & Swig: The secrets to scaling "treat" culture. Brian Tracy: The mentor who gave Shawn the "Girl Dad" reading list that changed his life. Find Shawn on Instagram-- @finneganshawn Love the show? If Shawn’s energy fired you up, leave us a review and subscribe! We’ll see you next week—keep creating.  Frequently Asked Questions: The Cre8tive Con Lifestyle & Events Whether you're looking to scale your business, find a mentor like Shawn Finnegan, or attend the next big networking event, we’ve got the answers. Here is everything you need to know about the faces and brands behind the Cre8tive Entrepreneur Podcast. What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is more than just a conference; it’s a high-energy lifestyle brand and community designed for entrepreneurs who want to break through the "ice" of traditional networking. Founded on the principle of bringing people together for face-to-face interaction in an AI-driven world, it focuses on providing massive value for creators and small business owners. Learn more and grab tickets at: www.cre8tivecon.com Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun is a writer, entrepreneur, and the visionary co-founder of the Cre8tive Con ecosystem. Known for her "Jules Rules" segments and her ability to build "empires" through storytelling, Julie is a specialist in brand elevation. She works with entrepreneurs to find their unique voice and scale their influence through strategic media. Explore her branding work at: www.bigbetterbrand.co Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick Domasky is a serial entrepreneur, author, and the founder of Motivation Champs. After facing his own "crushing" business failures, Dominick dedicated his life to sharing the "truth" about entrepreneurship—the grit, the pain, and the eventual comebacks. He is the co-host of the Cre8tive Entrepreneur Podcast and a leading voice in inspirational storytelling. Find your daily spark at: motivationchamps.com What are the "Cre8tive Con Lifestyle Brands"? The Cre8tive Con lifestyle represents a suite of services and communities aimed at the holistic entrepreneur. This includes: Big Better Brand: Focusing on the "look and feel" of your business and high-level media strategy. Motivation Champs: Focusing on the "heart and hustle" required to survive the peaks and valleys of business. The Cre8tive Entrepreneur Podcast: A weekly deep dive into business tips, life lessons, and interviews with gurus like Shawn Finnegan. How can I get involved in the community? The best way to join is to attend one of our live events. As guest Shawn Finnegan says, our events feel like a "love fest" where the value far outweighs the price of admission. If you can't make it in person, subscribing to the podcast and following our brands online is the best way to stay "seen" and supported. Do Julie and Dominick offer mentorship? Yes! Through their various platforms, Julie and Dominick provide coaching, branding audits, and motivational resources. They are dedicated to helping you "keep creating" by providing the legal, mental, and strategic tools necessary to succeed in today's market. Ready to scale your business? Visit www.cre8tivecon.com for event updates, motivationchamps.com for inspiration, and www.bigbetterbrand.co to take your brand to the next level. 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.

GET OBSESSED WITH OUR FAVORITES- GET ORGANIZED AND STREAMLINE YOUR BUSINESS WITH KEAP CRM- WWW.KEAP.COM/CRE8TIVE JOIN ALEXA BIGWARFE ON A WRITING RETREAT IN PARIS! Paris Writer’s Collective: Inspiration & Craft with Alexa How do you write and publish a successful book in 2026—and turn it into a powerful business asset? In this high-impact episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dom Domasky sit down with Alexa Bigwarfe—publishing expert, founder of the Women in Publishing Summit, and creator of Write | Publish | Sell—to break down everything you need to know about writing, publishing, and monetizing a book in today’s evolving landscape. Whether you're a first-time author, entrepreneur, coach, or speaker, this episode delivers a clear roadmap for how to write a book, publish it professionally in 2026, and leverage it to build authority, credibility, and revenue. Alexa shares her powerful journey—from grief to purpose—and reveals how storytelling can heal, connect, and scale a business. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN How to write a book in 2026 (step-by-step for beginners) The best self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and traditional publishing options in 2026 The true cost to publish a book in 2026 ($5K–$15K breakdown) How to avoid publishing scams and bad contracts Why editing, cover design, and formatting are critical How to turn your book into a lead magnet and business growth tool How to become an author-preneur in 2026 How books create speaking, coaching, and consulting income Why writing is both a healing process and a strategic business move KEY TAKEAWAYS Writing a book in 2026 is one of the fastest ways to build authority and credibility Professional publishing typically costs $5,000–$15,000 Self-publishing offers control, but requires investment Always read publishing contracts and avoid scams Your book can generate leads, clients, and speaking opportunities Done is better than perfect—publish and iterate Community and mentorship accelerate your success as an author EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – How to write and publish a book in 202603:15 – Alexa’s journey into publishing09:50 – Turning grief into a book13:45 – Building Write | Publish | Sell18:20 – Book launch insights22:00 – Avoiding publishing scams28:10 – Publishing cost breakdowns34:45 – Budget publishing strategies40:00 – Why entrepreneurs need a book in 202646:25 – Monetizing your book51:10 – Writing creatively as Lexi Haddock59:00 – Where to find Alexa1:01:45 – Final reflections POWER QUOTES “Books are more than stories—they are tools for authority, impact, and transformation.” — Alexa Bigwarfe “You only get one chance to make a first impression. Make your book professional.” — Alexa Bigwarfe “Done is better than never published.” — Alexa Bigwarfe WHERE TO FIND ALEXA BIGWARFE alexabigwarfe.comwomeninpublishingsummit.comwritepublishsell.comInstagram: @alexabigwarfe | @writepublishsell FAQ Who is Julie Lokun?Julie Lokun is a media strategist, PR expert, and founder of Cre8tive Con, an immersive conference for entrepreneurs, authors, and creators. She is also the host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and founder of The Mediacasters, helping entrepreneurs amplify their voice through media. www.bigbetterbrand.com Who is Dom Domasky?Dom Domasky is a publishing leader, CEO of Media Champs Publishing, and a champion for helping authors turn their stories into powerful books. He works closely with entrepreneurs to transform their message into impact-driven content. What is Cre8tive Con?Cre8tive Con is a premier live event for entrepreneurs, authors, and creatives focused on branding, publishing, podcasting, and business growth. Learn more at www.cre8tivecon.com What is The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is a top-ranked show featuring experts in publishing, business, branding, and personal development. It helps entrepreneurs grow their influence and income through creativity and storytelling. Visit www.creativeentrepreneurpod.com What is The Creative Entrepreneur Lifestyle Brand? The Creative Entrepreneur Lifestyle Brand is a movement empowering entrepreneurs to build businesses rooted in creativity, storytelling, and impact. It blends media, events, publishing, and community to help individuals scale their voice and authority. www.cre8tivecon.com Why should entrepreneurs write a book in 2026? Writing a book in 2026 is one of the most powerful ways to establish authority, generate leads, and open doors to speaking, coaching, and media opportunities. A book positions you as an expert and creates long-term business growth. 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.

In this high-octane episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, we are pulling back the curtain on high-level business architecture. Hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky are joined by James Orsini, the former President of Startup Operations at VaynerX and a key architect behind Gary Vaynerchuk’s $350M empire. James has moved into a bold new chapter with Factotum and Vyve, and he’s here to share how to modernize your business, leverage social media for massive ROI, and build a network that actually pays dividends. Episode Highlights: Modernizing Your Business Strategy From VaynerX to Factotum: James discusses his transition from managing 2,000 employees to his current work helping brands find their "special sauce" through his leadership at Factotum and the wellness-driven innovation at Vyve. The Connector’s Edge: Why being a "super-connector" is the most undervalued skill in 2026 and how to build a world-class network without asking for anything in return. Ideas vs. Infrastructure: The hard truth about why most startups fail—it's not the lack of a dream; it's the lack of an execution plan. Social Media for Sales: How to treat social platforms as additive growth engines rather than just "content buckets." Scaling Secrets: When to hire senior leadership and how to build a culture that thrives on radical transparency and responsible leadership. ️ Meet Your Hosts: The Faces of the Creative Entrepreneur Lifestyle Julie Lokun | Founder of The Mediacasters & Cre8tive Amped Based in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Julie Lokun is a globally recognized media strategist, 3x best-selling author, and the powerhouse behind the Cre8tive Amped lifestyle brand. As a leading voice in media entrepreneurship in the Midwest, Julie specializes in helping CEOs and creators "create a buzz" through high-impact podcasting and digital storytelling. She is the lead host of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and a frequent speaker on the intersection of AI and human creativity. Dominick Domasky | Founder of Motivation Champs Hailing from Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Dominick "Dom" Domasky is the founder of Motivation Champs, an inspirational platform dedicated to sharing stories of resilience and success. Dom is a veteran entrepreneur, author, and professional speaker known for his "no-excuses" approach to business. Through his work with The Mediacasters, Dom helps entrepreneurs across the Greater Pittsburgh area and beyond find their voice and turn their struggles into their greatest competitive advantage. The Creative Entrepreneur Ecosystem We don't just talk about business; we live it. Our brands are designed to help you monetize your message and scale your influence: Cre8tive Amped: The ultimate lifestyle brand for the modern creator. Wear your ambition and live the entrepreneurial dream. Creative Entrepreneur Podcast: Your weekly masterclass in business, featuring icons like James Orsini and Gary Vaynerchuk. Cre8tive Con: The premier event for networking, learning, and building business connections that last. Essential Links & Resources Connect with James Orsini: LinkedIn Profile Modern Operations: Explore James' new ventures at Factotum and Vyve. Motivation & Inspiration: Visit MotivationChamps.com. Join the Free Community: The Mediacasters Community Get the Book: Launch your show with Audiocasters—Available here! Follow on Social: @cre8tivecon Ready to modernize your brand? Subscribe to the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform to stay ahead of the media revolution. 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.

Taxes Aren't Scary—They’re Strategic with Gary Heldt, CPA "You thought taxes couldn't be sexy or fun? Think again." In this high-impact episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Dominick Domasky and Julie Lokun sit down with Gary Heldt, CPA, founder of Small Business Advisors and host of the Grow Your Business, Grow Your Wealth podcast. If you are an entrepreneur who views tax season with the same dread as a root canal, this episode is your anesthesia. Gary pulls back the curtain on how savvy business owners stop reacting to the IRS and start using tax planning as a wealth-building engine. From red flags that trigger audits to the "hidden" benefits of hiring your kids or parents, this conversation is a masterclass in keeping more of what you earn. ️ In This Episode, We Discuss: Audit Red Flags: The #1 mistake entrepreneurs make (hint: it’s all about the documentation). The "Write-Off" Demystified: What actually counts as a business expense? Gary breaks down the "customary, ordinary, and necessary" rule. The Truth About Meals & Entertainment: What you can (and cannot) deduct in a post-COVID tax world. Lifestyle vs. Business: Can you write off that first-class flight or that new suit for your presentation? (Gary’s answer might surprise you). Back Taxes & IRS Anxiety: Why "moving to Mexico" isn't a strategy and how to proactively settle with the IRS. The Power of a "Tax Plan": Why a CPA should be a "forecaster of your future" rather than a "recorder of your history." Strategic Hiring: How to shift income to lower tax brackets by employing family members. Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs Stop Co-mingling: Separate your personal and business finances immediately to avoid audit nightmares. Proactive vs. Reactive: Most CPAs record history; a great CPA helps you write it. Documentation is King: If it isn't documented properly, it didn't happen in the eyes of the IRS. Build Your "Board": Ensure your CPA, attorney, and financial advisor are actually talking to each other to catch your blind spots. Connect with Gary Heldt Gary is currently accepting new clients and is a dedicated resource for small business owners looking to scale efficiently. Website: Small Business Advisors - Gary Heldt Podcast: Grow Your Business, Grow Your Wealth (Available on all major platforms) Phone: 410-721-6000 ️ About the Hosts: Building a Lifestyle Brand Dominick Domasky and Julie Lokun are the driving forces behind a suite of brands designed to empower the modern creative entrepreneur. From top-tier podcasting to immersive live events, they help visionaries turn their passion into a sustainable lifestyle. Explore their ecosystem: Cre8tive Con: The ultimate conference for creators and entrepreneurs to network and scale. Cre8tive Amped: A media and strategy powerhouse helping brands find their voice. Creative Entrepreneur Pod: Your weekly dose of business grit and inspiration. FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Who are Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky? Julie and Dominick are authors, speakers, and media strategists who co-host The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. They specialize in helping entrepreneurs build "lifestyle brands"—businesses that support the life you actually want to live, rather than consuming it. What is the "Jules Rules" segment? A fan-favorite segment where Julie Lokun (the "Media Strategist Mom") breaks down complex world events or trends into digestible, actionable lists. In this episode, she explores infamous financial criminals to highlight the importance of tax compliance! How can I work with the Cre8tive team? You can reach out through Cre8tive Amped for media strategy or attend their annual Cre8tive Con event to learn from industry leaders in person. REACH OUT TO JULIE OR DOM- LET THEM KNOW WHAT YOU THINK! [email protected] [email protected] 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.

The $7 Million Business Card with Chandler Bolt CHECK OUT SELFPUBLISHING.COM at www.selfpublishing.com Are you an entrepreneur who has said, "I should really write a book someday"? Today’s guest explains why "someday" needs to be now. Chandler Bolt, founder and CEO of Self-Publishing.com, joins the show to demystify the publishing process. A C-level English student and college dropout with ADHD, Chandler proved that you don't need a PhD or Hemingway-level prose to author a bestseller. He shares his "Idea Finder" framework and reveals how his own book generated $7 million in business revenue in just one year. If you want to move from being a "parrot" in your business to an authority in your industry, this episode is your blueprint. Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs 1. Author = Authority The root word of authority is author. Writing the book on your subject allows you to own your category, land TEDx talks, and secure PR. It’s the ultimate psychological trigger for credibility in the eyes of your customers. 2. The "4 Ps" of a Bestseller To ensure your book grows your business, it must align with these four pillars: Person: Who specifically are you helping? Pain: What is the burning problem they know they have? Promise: What is the specific transformation the book offers? Price: Is this aligned with your back-end business offerings? 3. The Idea Finder: What Should You Write About? Stuck on a topic? Ask yourself: What expertise do you have years of experience in? What is the "gap" between what you know and what a beginner knows? The Best Question: What are the "broken record" conversations you have every day? Write the book to answer those questions once and for all. 4. Avoiding the "Vanity Press" Scam Chandler warns against publishers that charge you to publish but keep your Royalties and Intellectual Property (IP). Red Flag: If you are paying a company thousands of dollars AND they are keeping a percentage of your sales or owning your copyright, run. The Self-Publishing Model: You pay for the service/coaching, but you keep 100% of the rights and 100% of the royalties. 5. Leveraged Impact A book allows you to scale your impact from 1-to-1 to 1-to-many. Chandler explains that every book typically impacts three groups: The Readers: (1,000+) People who learn from your expertise. Friends & Family: (200+) People inspired by your discipline to finish a hard task. The "One": The individual whose life is fundamentally altered because you shared your story. Resources Mentioned Free Audiobook: Get a copy of Chandler’s book, Published, at PublishedBook.com/audio Strategy Call: Book a consultation with the team to map out your book at Self-Publishing.com/apply YouTube: Search "Self-Publishing.com" for tutorials on AI tools for authors and fiction writing. Connect with Chandler Bolt Website: Self-Publishing.com Social Media: Follow @ChandlerBolt and @SelfPublishingCom for daily tips on writing and scaling. ️ The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast What is the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast about? It is a top-ranked business podcast (situated in the top 1% globally) dedicated to helping entrepreneurs move from "messy ideas" to authority-led brands. The show focuses on business growth, monetization, and the "3 P's": Podcasting, Publishing, and Public Speaking. How often are new episodes released? New episodes are typically released weekly. The show features high-level interviews with industry giants—ranging from venture capitalists like John Cerasani to media experts like Ramon Ray—alongside tactical "Billion Dollar Boardroom" segments where the hosts debate business strategy. Who should listen to this show? The podcast is designed for "creative entrepreneurs"—writers, speakers, coaches, and business owners who want to leverage media and storytelling to scale their revenue and impact without losing their creative integrity. Cre8tive Con What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is an annual high-energy business conference held in Chicago. It is described as the "ultimate profit center," blending world-class education with explosive networking. It aims to bridge the gap between creative passion and strategic implementation. When and where is the next Cre8tive Con? * Dates: February 20–22, 2026 Location: InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile Theme: Innovation, authentic storytelling, and brand authority. Who are some of the past and future speakers? The conference attracts massive names in the business world, including: Jim Kwik (Brain Coach and NYT Bestselling Author) David Meltzer (Chairman of the Napoleon Hill Institute) James Orsini (President of Startups for VaynerX) John Lee (Digital Media and AI Expert) What makes Cre8tive Con different from other business seminars? Unlike traditional "pitch-heavy" seminars, Cre8tive Con focuses on "Human ROI." In 2026, it partnered with WHEN Stories to produce TEDx-style live stage experiences, emphasizing vulnerability and authentic connection as the primary drivers of business authority. ‍ Meet the Hosts: Julie & Dominick Who is Julie Lokun, JD? is a media strategist and founder of The Mediacasters.  Julie is a strategist with a background in law. She is known for her ability to "anoint and point"—teasing through complex information to help entrepreneurs find the root of their story. She is a mom of four boys and a bestselling author of the Hustle Smart series. Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick is the CEO of Media Champs Publishing and the founder of Motivation Champs. He is a seasoned publisher and storyteller who believes every business owner is "one story away from a breakthrough." Dom focuses on helping entrepreneurs move past the survival phase and into a space of tangible legacy and impact. How long have they been working together? Julie and Dominick have been partners for over four years. They describe their collaboration as a balance of "Yes-Man" creative energy (Julie) and "No-Man" pragmatic strategy (Dom), a dynamic they frequently discuss on the podcast to help others navigate their own business partnerships. What are their core business philosophies? They advocate for the 3 P's: Podcasting: Building trust through voice and consistency. Publishing: Creating a "business card" that lasts (books). Public Speaking: Establishing authority on physical and virtual stages. How can I get involved? Listen: Find the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or iHeartRadio. Attend: Register for Cre8tive Con at www.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.

LEARN THE SECRET TO BUILDING AN UNSTOPPABLE BUSINESS LIKE JULIE AND DOM- Check out- www.keap.com/cre8tive Stop Juggling, Start Growing: The Keap "Automation Advantage" Let’s be real: as a creative entrepreneur, you didn’t start your business to spend six hours a day stuck in your inbox or chasing down leads that went cold three days ago. As Julie and Dom discussed, the "Fortune is in the Follow-up," but you can’t build a community if you’re buried under a mountain of manual tasks. That’s why you need to head over to keap.com/cre8tive. Why Julie and Dom Trust Keap: Automation on Autopilot: While you’re on stage or networking at events like Cre8tive Con, Keap is working in the background—capturing leads, sending personalized messages, and ensuring no potential client slips through the cracks. The "Seven-Day" Rule: Julie mentioned that excitement dies after a week. Keap’s sales and marketing automation platform ensures your follow-ups happen instantly, so you strike while the iron is hot—not at 1:00 AM when you're exhausted. Scalable Sanity: From CRM and email marketing to payments and landing pages, Keap consolidates your tools so you can focus on the "Horizontal and Vertical" relationships that actually grow your brand. Don't let your "impossible dreams" get sidelined by administrative busywork. Put your business growth on autopilot so you can spend more time in the room and less time behind the laptop. Visit www.keap.com/cre8tive today and start turning your leads into lifelong community members. Building Unstoppable Communities: Cre8tive Con 2026 Recap & The "Human-First" Business Growth Hack Episode Summary: Are you tired of the "Instagrammable era" of business where connections feel like transactions? In this high-energy wrap-up of Cre8tive Con 2026 in Chicago, hosts Julie and Dominick Damas discuss why building a "ride or die" community is the ultimate growth hack for 2026. Featuring insights from keynote legends like Jim Kwik, David Meltzer, and John Lee, this episode breaks down the "Reset"—moving away from behind the laptop and into rooms where six-figure manifestations happen over cocktails and conversations. Whether you are building a digital tribe or hosting live events, learn how to put your audience first, provide radical value without a "find's fee," and create an ecosystem where everyone rises together. ️ In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The "Anti-Star" Strategy: Why the most successful communities (like Taylor Swift’s or Cre8tive Con’s) aren’t actually about the leader—they’re about the shared mission. Vertical vs. Horizontal Community: How to bridge the gap between the "stage" and the "audience" to create a family dynamic. The Follow-Up Fortune: Why your connections die within seven days if you don't take action (and how to use Keap to automate it). Lessons from Sports: Why the Indiana University and Pittsburgh Steelers fanbases are the ultimate blueprints for generational business loyalty. Live Event Do’s & Don’ts: The "Jules Rules" for networking—from breath mints to avoiding the "predatory pitch." Featured Cre8tive Con 2026 Speakers Mentioned: Jim Kwik: Brain health and high-speed learning. John Lee: Visionary business scaling. David Meltzer: Abundance, flow, and the "Power of 64." James Orsini & Bobby Lane & Andrea Sullivan: The Vayner/Vyve community model. And Factotum. Jason Duncan, Richard Dolan, & Justin Guarini and Kim Walsh Phillips: Insights on building brand authority. ️ Resources & Sponsors: Keap: Stop losing leads in the "follow-up gap." Put your business growth on autopilot and turn leads into lifelong customers. SELF PUBLISHING.COM:  We love SelfPublishing.com because it empowers entrepreneurs to turn their "brain bombs" and community insights into authoritative books, providing the exact roadmap needed to scale your personal brand from a speaker on a stage to a published industry leader. FAQ: Building a Business Community in 2026 How do I start a community if I’m an introvert? Find a "connector" friend. As Julie suggests, find one person you relate to who is naturally social and let them help you navigate the room. Also, remember that observing is a superpower—it allows you to build deeper, more thoughtful relationships than someone just "working the room." What is the biggest mistake entrepreneurs make when building a community? Making it all about them. If you are the only star, you don't have a community; you have a fan club. True communities are built on shared interests and shared values where the members provide as much value to each other as the leader does. How do you monetize a community without feeling "salesy"? Focus on value first. As Dominick points out, when you provide real tools and inspiration without an immediate "find's fee" or transaction, you build trust. Monetization happens naturally through high-level offerings (like events or masterminds) once the community sees you are invested in their success. Is digital community building better than live events? Both have pros and cons. Live events like Cre8tive Con create "lightning in a bottle" energy that can't be replicated on a screen. However, digital communities allow for consistent, global touchpoints. The most "aggressive growth hack" is a hybrid of both. A special thank you to our team who made Cre8tive Con 2026 successful- Chris Cushing, Teri Bales, Phil Hill, Debbie Griffiths, Najami Lezama, Beth Drost, Cindy Winkler, Sam Hibler, The Team at The InterContinental Hotel Chicago, Kinasthetics Audio and Visual, David Scott Photography and Videography, Paul Lee Photography and Videography, Edin Ramovic Photography, Ramon Ray Master of Ceremonies ----and so many more. This was a community effort and a labor of love. With Gratitude, Julie and Dom Notable Quotes: "A community has to be bigger than you. If you make yourself the only star, the community will fail." — Dominick Domasky "The fortune is in the follow-up. You have one week before the excitement dies down—make the move." — Julie Lokun Next Step: Want to see the "Brain Bombs" for yourself? www.cre8tivecon.com and get the first alert when early-bird tickets for Cre8tive Con 2027 go live! Don't forget to Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! 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.

Do You Know Your Audience? The NFL and Olympics Sure Do (Not the Smartest Guys in the Room - Episode Swap) In this conversation, the hosts Tom and Dom discuss various topics including the Olympics, audience engagement, and the NFL's strategies for connecting with viewers. They emphasize the importance of knowing one's audience, gathering feedback, and adapting content to meet audience needs. The discussion also touches on the significance of events like Cre8tive Con in fostering community among entrepreneurs. key takeaways The Olympics provide a unique opportunity to engage with diverse audiences. Understanding your audience is crucial for effective communication. Feedback from your audience can guide content creation. The NFL has successfully adapted its strategies to meet changing audience demographics. CreativeCon serves as a platform for entrepreneurs to connect and share ideas. Engaging storytelling is key to capturing audience interest. Different audiences have different preferences and expectations. Listening to your audience can lead to better content and engagement. The importance of adapting to audience changes over time. Creating separate channels for different audience segments can enhance communication. 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.

Check it out now at www.keap.com/cre8tive Stop Surviving, Start Thriving with Keap! Are you tired of tracking leads in notes apps and screenshots? Stop letting potential sales slip through the cracks. Whether you are "creatively chaotic" or a structured pro, Keap helps you follow up instantly, capture leads, and put your growth on autopilot. In this high-octane episode, "The Branding Brain" Kim Walsh Phillips and American Idol superstar turned business coach Justin Guarini join Julie and Dom to discuss how entrepreneurs can turn their personality into profit. They dive deep into the "It Factor," the power of saying "no," and why your story is your most valuable asset. Whether you’re a plumber or a CEO, this episode is a masterclass in shifting from a "commodity" to a "movement." Key Takeaways 1. Can the "It Factor" Be Learned? Contrary to popular belief, you aren’t just born with the "X Factor." The Definition: It is simply the ability to elicit a specific feeling in your audience. The Strategy: Shift the conversation from your identity to the customer's transformation. When you solve a problem they are experiencing right now, you become magnetic. The Example: Roger Wakefield, a plumber who built a 750k+ subscriber YouTube channel and sold his business by becoming the ultimate authority in his niche. 2. The Power of "No" (The "No Ninjas") Kim and Justin explain that scaling to $100M requires saying no to almost everything that doesn't align with your impossible goal. The Test: Once you set a massive goal, the universe (or God) will test you with "good" opportunities that are distractions from the "great" goal. The Sacrifice: Justin shares why he turned down a dream Broadway role to stay focused on the Elite Speakers Network. The Metric: Set a large goal with a short timeline (6 months). A year is too long to create urgency. 3. Controlling the Narrative Justin emphasizes only taking advice from people you would be willing to trade places with. Storytelling: No one has your eyes, your ears, or your tongue. Your unique perspective is what prevents you from being a commodity. Overcoming Fear: Stage fright is a natural human response. Focus on the service you are providing rather than the judgment of the audience. 4. Moving from Referrals to Predictability Kim highlights that while referrals are great, you can't control them. To grow, you need a predictable client flow. Data is King: Track your progress daily. If you want to make $100k a month, you need to know exactly what your daily input and output look like. GPS Mindset: Don't base your future destination on your past mistakes. A GPS doesn't judge you for getting lost; it just tells you how to get to the next stop. Guest Resources Free Masterclass: Learn how to generate unlimited leads on LinkedIn for free. Visit LIMachine.com/masterclass. Connect with Kim: Powerful Professionals Connect with Justin: Elite Speakers Network Meet Your Hosts & The Movement Julie Lokun, JD: The "Legal Eagle" & Facilitator of Dreams As the founder of Cre8tive Con and head maven of Crown & Compass, Julie is a strategist who knows how to "anoint and point." With a background in law and a heart for creative growth, she helps entrepreneurs navigate the complex path from a "messy idea" to a 7-figure brand. Julie doesn't just talk about visibility—she creates the stages where it happens. Dominick Domasky: The Storytelling Strategist The founder of Motivation Champs and a seasoned publisher, Dominick is the man who turns passion into a tangible legacy. He believes that every business owner is one story away from a breakthrough. Dom’s mission is to help you move past the "surviving" phase of entrepreneurship and into a space of authority, influence, and impact. Join the Inner Circle: Cre8tive Con Community The podcast is just the beginning. If you’re ready to move from a listener to a "doer, mover, and shaker," you belong in our private Facebook group. This isn't just another group for networking; it’s a high-energy hub where Julie, Dom, and our global network of experts provide: Ongoing Support: Get answers to your burning business questions in real-time. Networking that Counts: Connect with like-minded creators who are scaling their brands through podcasting, publishing, and public speaking. Behind-the-Scenes Access: Be the first to know about upcoming events, live workshops, and exclusive guest opportunities. "Success accelerates when founders surround themselves with visionaries who are committed to growth and accountability." Come find your tribe. Your story deserves the stage, and we’re here to help you build it. Join the movement here: www.facebook.com/cre8tivecon CHECK OUT CRE8TIVE CON- www.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.

Episode Overview: Part 2 In the conclusion of this deep-dive, Jim Kwik and Julie Lokun tackle the "Elephant in the Room": a traditional education system designed for a world that no longer exists. Jim shares personal stories from his childhood "broken brain" and how those struggles shaped his mission to help entrepreneurs—and their children—become irreplaceably human. Whether you are a parent wondering how to guide your kids through the AI revolution or an entrepreneur feeling the weight of "digital dementia," this episode provides the tactical habits needed to protect your greatest asset: your focus. Key Highlights from Part 2 The Future of Education: Jim and Julie discuss the "college debate." Is a four-year degree still the best ROI, or is self-directed meta-learning the new gold standard? Digital Discipline for Families: How to teach children to use technology as a compass rather than a cage. Jim shares his "screen balance" philosophy for raising curious, rather than passive, consumers. The Introvert’s Edge: Jim opens up about his journey as a self-described introvert and how he learned to lead, speak, and teach on global stages without sacrificing his energy. Rewiring for Resilience: A deeper look at the "L.I.E.s" (Limited Ideas Entertained) specifically related to age and intelligence. Sustaining Momentum: Why most entrepreneurs burn out and how to use the "Small Simple Steps" (S3) method to maintain long-term impact. The "Limitless" Morning Routine In this episode, Jim references the specific habits he uses to "prime" his brain every morning. Hydration: Resetting neurochemistry after sleep. Brain Dumping: Journaling to move tasks from working memory to paper, reducing anxiety. Movement: Using physical activity to spark "Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor" (BDNF). Memorable Part 2 Quotes "AI can out-think us, but it can’t out-imagine us. Your imagination is where true human intelligence lives." — Jim Kwik "We are taught a lie that our intelligence is fixed like our shoe size. It’s actually more like a muscle—the more you challenge it, the stronger it gets." — Jim Kwik Special Offer for Listeners Meet Jim Kwik LIVE! Jim will be a keynote speaker at Cre8tive Con 2026 in Chicago (February 20th–22nd). Register at: Cre8tiveCon.com Discount Code: Use KWIK50 to save $50 on your ticket. 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.

n this high-energy episode of Get Obsessed, host Julie Lokun sits down with the world’s leading brain coach, Jim Kwik. From being labeled "the boy with the broken brain" to coaching CEOs at Google, SpaceX, and Nike, Jim shares his blueprint for upgrading your mental operating system. The conversation dives deep into why cognitive flexibility is the #1 skill for the 2026 economy and how to stay relevant in a world dominated by AI by leaning into your "Human Intelligence." Key Takeaways & "Kwik" Tips AI + HI = The Future: Jim explains why AI should be used as an amplifier, not a replacement. The key is merging Artificial Intelligence with Human Intelligence (HI) to become an unstoppable innovator. The Thermostat vs. The Thermometer: Are you merely reflecting the environment (thermometer) or are you setting the temperature (thermostat)? Jim discusses how to take control of your internal energy. Belief-Driven Behavior: All external results start with internal software. Jim breaks down how to identify and delete "L.I.E.s" (Limited Ideas Entertained) that hold you back. Curiosity as a Superpower: Why the most successful entrepreneurs in 2026 aren't the ones with the most answers, but the ones asking the best questions. Cognitive Flexibility: The ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn quickly is the ultimate competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving job market. The Limitless Model Jim walks through his signature 3 M's to help you break through any plateau: Mindset (The WHAT): Your deeply held beliefs and attitudes about what is possible. Motivation (The WHY): The purpose and energy required to take action (P x E x S3: Purpose x Energy x Small Simple Steps). Methods (The HOW): The actual processes for speed reading, memory enhancement, and focus. Notable Quotes "Your brain doesn't come with an owner's manual, and school didn't teach you how to learn. It taught you what to learn." — Jim Kwik "If knowledge is power, then learning is your superpower." — Jim Kwik Resources Mentioned Book: Limitless (Expanded Edition) by Jim Kwik Quiz: Discover your "Brain Animal" at KwikBrain.com Event: Cre8tive Con 2026 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.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR PODCAST THE THEIR LIFESTYLE BRAND! CLICK HERE: THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR LIFESTYLE BRAND The Power & Pitfalls of Creative Collaborations: When to Say Yes and When to Walk Away Host: Julie Lokun & Dominick Domasky Topic: Business Collaborations, Strategic Partnerships, Entrepreneurial Growth LEARN MORE: www.cre8tivecon.com Episode Summary In the world of business, a collaboration is the ultimate "situationship." It can lead to viral success, massive visibility, and a healthy bank account—or it can leave you ghosted, underpaid, and overexposed. In this high-energy episode, Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky peel back the curtain on what makes a partnership thrive and what sends it crashing into a "ball of flames." The duo introduces a brand-new segment: The Billion Dollar Boardroom, where Dom has to choose between a "frictionless" partner with capped potential and a high-friction partner with an unlimited ceiling. From there, they dive into iconic collaborations like Michael Jordan & Nike and Snoop Dogg & Martha Stewart, sharing hard-earned lessons on how to stop confusing "chemistry" with "strategy." Key Highlights & Takeaways Chemistry vs. Strategy: Why "liking" someone isn't enough to go into business with them. The Billion Dollar Boardroom: Dom explores why the most difficult conversations often lead to the most exponential growth. Red Flags in Partnerships: How to spot a "leech" who takes 90% and gives 10%, and why a firm contract is your best friend. The Power of Complementary Strengths: Julie and Dom unpack their own 4-year partnership and how "Yes-Man" energy balances with "No-Man" pragmatism. Iconic Collab Deep Dive: Insights into why Dreamworks, Oprah’s Book Club, and Jordan/Nike became gold standards of brand alignment. Jules’ Rules for Collaborations Julie breaks down her top tips for vetting a potential partner: Know Your Value: Never enter a partnership from a place of desperation. Articulation is Everything: If you can’t clearly state what you offer and what you need, you aren’t ready to collab. The "Mentee" Mindset: Look for collaborators who are 5–10 steps ahead of you to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. Dom’s Directives for Entrepreneurs Dom shares the wisdom that keeps his projects moving forward: The Incompetency Ceiling: "Man will rise to his highest level of incompetency on his own." Watch how people behave when the pressure is on. Move the Needle: If a partner isn't moving the project forward, they are holding it back. Smooth the Grooves: Use collaborators to fill your "blind spots." If someone is better at a task than you, get out of their way and let them lead. Memorable Quotes "In business, alignment is sexy, but desperation? That’s expensive." — Julie Lokun "If somebody can do it and wants to do it, get the hell out of their way." — Dominick Domasky Resources Mentioned Creative Con / Creative Con Amped: The ultimate community for movers, shakers, and entrepreneurs. Clubhouse: The platform where Julie and Dom first connected. Michael Losier: The "Law of Attraction" expert who saw massive success via the Oprah collaboration. Are you ready to level up your collaborative game? If you enjoyed this episode, please Rate, Review, and Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Your support helps us reach more creatives looking to turn their passion into a paycheck. Connect with us! Share your favorite (or weirdest) collaboration stories with us on social media. Keep creating!  REACH OUT-- [email protected] 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.

Are you drowning in daily tasks and losing sight of your creative vision? In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur, we sit down with Chris Cushing, an Air Force veteran and the founder of VA Victory. Known as the "innovation co-pilot" to high-level executives, Chris shares how she helps entrepreneurs see around corners and regain control of their time. From her roots in basic training to managing complex operations for Creative Con, Chris discusses the vital transition from "hiring a VA" to bringing on an Online Operations Business Manager (OBM). If you’ve ever struggled with the "entrepreneurial bottleneck"—the inability to let go of control—this episode is your roadmap to scaling without the burnout. Key Takeaways & "Jules Rules" for Success The Power of the Loom Video: Stop repeating instructions. Use Loom to record your screen, show exactly how a task is done, and build a library of SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) for your team. The 24-Hour Rule: Timely communication is a non-negotiable for success. If you can’t reply immediately, an "Out of Office" message is essential to maintain professional integrity. Under-Promise, Over-Deliver: Build trust by setting realistic expectations and then exceeding them. Stop the Inconsistency: The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make is being unwilling to change outdated systems because it's "their baby." Trial Tasks: When hiring, give a small paid task with a hard deadline to see how a candidate operates under pressure before signing a long-term contract. Episode Highlights [00:00] Meet Chris Cushing: The veteran behind the "DAM system" and Air Force veteran. [04:15] Military Discipline in Business: How the Air Force shaped Chris’s leadership and organizational skills. [08:40] From VA to OBM: Why your $25/hour VA might actually be an Online Operations Manager. [12:30] The "Time-Suck" List: A practical exercise to identify which tasks you need to delegate first. [15:50] Jules Rules – Entrepreneurial Pet Peeves: * Lack of substance (the "all talk, no website" syndrome). Being late to Zoom calls. Poor follow-up at networking events. [22:15] Managing the Managers: When you’re too busy "babysitting" your team, it’s time for an OBM. Connect with Chris Cushing Website: www.va-victory.com Meet Chris in Person: Join us at Creative Con this February in Chicago! Get your tickets at www.creativecon.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.

JOIN US LIVE AT CRE8TIVE CON- www.cre8tivecon.com The Meat: What We Talked About 1. The Rise of "Work Slop" Jonathan Aberman introduces a term every entrepreneur needs to know: Work Slop. This is the generic, uninspired, and often incorrect content generated when humans "phone it in" with AI. The Red Flag: If you’re seeing six-paragraph LinkedIn posts filled with em dashes and the word "delve," you’re looking at work slop. The Cost: Handing in AI-generated work without a human touch tells your clients or boss that your time is more valuable than theirs. It’s a professional insult. 2. Understanding OIQ (Original Intelligence Quotient) Unlike IQ, which is generally fixed, your OIQ is dynamic. It measures your ability to apply creativity and originality to a task in a way that transcends AI output. Expander vs. Connector: Are you a "Jimi Hendrix" (an expander who breaks the rules) or a "Bar Band Guitarist" (a focal creator who delivers a perfect, narrow product)? Both are valuable, but they use tools differently. The Human Muscle: Creativity is a muscle. The more you drive the AI (rather than letting it drive you), the higher your OIQ becomes. 3. AI as an Assistant, Not a Friend Jonathan breaks down the healthy way to integrate AI into your workflow: Pro Version Only: If you aren’t paying for the tool, your data is the product being used to train the model. Pay for the premium versions for better data protection and higher-quality logic. Task-Specific Models: Use Claude for coding and nuanced writing, and Gemini for deep, hours-long research tasks. Take a Break: AI is designed to be addictive. To stay creative, you must step away from the screen—play an instrument, walk, or watch a "bad movie" to reset your human perspective. Notable Quotes "AI as it's being deployed creates homogeneity of information... It creates sameness. That’s how the models work." "If you give me a document with typos [or work slop], you're telling me that my time was less valuable than yours. You've just insulted me." Resources Mentioned Hupside: hupside.com The OIQ Challenge: A 4-minute game to measure your original intelligence. Connect with Jonathan: Jonathan Aberman on LinkedIn Jonathan shares the Hupside philosophy: the goal isn't to fight AI, but to upside the human role within it. Premium Tools, Premium Thinking: If you aren’t paying for the tool, you are the product. Use premium models to protect your data and access higher-level logic. Break the Interdependency: AI is seductive and can make your brain "soft." To maintain your competitive edge, you must intentionally break the feedback loop. Take a walk, play an instrument, and engage in "analog" curiosity.  ABOUT JONATHAN ABERMAN- Jonathan Aberman is an entrepreneur, investor, and innovation strategist redefining how we measure human potential in an AI-driven world. As CEO and co-founder of Hupside, he is championing a new category—Original Intelligence—that identifies and quantifies originality as a business differentiator. He is also a partner at Ruxton Ventures, where he applies his expertise in venture investing and technology commercialization to support high-growth companies. Jonathan also brings a strong academic track record: he served as dean of the School of Business and Technology at Marymount University from 2019 to 2023 and currently serves as Visiting Entrepreneur and Strategic Advisor to the Frank J. Guardini School of Business at John Cabot University in Rome. He has been named a “Tech Titan” by Washingtonian, included in the Washington Business Journal’s “Power 100,” and recognized by Virginia as one of its “50 Most Influential Entrepreneurs.” Jonathan’s leadership and insight have established him as a trusted guide at the intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship, and originality. 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.

Show Notes: The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast Featured Spotlight: The CJ Moneyway Show In this episode, we are stepping outside our usual studio walls to highlight a fellow creator who is making massive waves in the entrepreneurial space: Corwin “CJ” Johnson, host of The CJ Moneyway Show. If you’re a fan of The Creative Entrepreneur, you know we live for the intersection of passion and profit. CJ takes that a step further by uncovering the "stories behind the success." His show is a masterclass in resilience, documenting the frameworks and "unseen years" of legacy builders, faith-driven leaders, and visionaries. Who is CJ Moneyway? Corwin "CJ" Johnson is a globally recognized podcast host, author, and entrepreneur. Ranked in the top 3% of podcasts worldwide, CJ has built his platform on the belief that every success story is actually a journey of overcoming "paths less traveled." Beyond the mic, CJ is the author of Both Eyes Open and Both Eyes Shut, with a deep background in financial literacy and a passion for helping people take control of their financial futures. Why You’ll Love It While we focus on the creative hustle, CJ dives into the blueprint of greatness. His guests range from music industry moguls like Benjamin Shrader to leadership experts and spiritual visionaries. You can expect: Deep Dives: Conversations that go beyond the surface to explore personal struggles and professional breakthroughs. Actionable Strategy: Mindset moves and tactical advice for entrepreneurs at any stage. Diverse Perspectives: Topics spanning from personal branding and 6-figure frameworks to human-centered leadership. Connect & Listen If you’re looking for your next favorite binge-listen, check out The CJ Moneyway Show at the links below: Listen on Apple Podcasts: The CJ Moneyway Show Watch on YouTube: The CJ Moneyway Show Channel Official Website: cjmoneyway.com Follow CJ on Instagram: @cjmoneyway MEET US LIVE in CHICAGO at Cre8tive Con! www.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.

MEET US LIVE AT CRE8TIVE CON! www.cre8tivecon.com NFL Business Lessons: Marques Ogden on the Audit of a $20M Failure The high-performance habits that get you to the NFL are the same ones that can lead to a business collapse if your ego takes the wheel. In this episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominic Domasky sit down with former NFL offensive lineman Marques Ogden. Marques didn't just play for the Jaguars, Ravens, and Bills—illegally heavy at 375 lbs—he built a construction empire that reached eight figures before it completely imploded. We are performing a "post-mortem" on a $20 million business failure to extract the specific NFL business lessons that every entrepreneur needs to hear before they scale. Inside the Episode: The Gridiron to the Boardroom The Anatomy of a Collapse: Marques opens up his "audit" of how he spent $3 million in 90 days and why a $20M company vanished, leaving him with $400 and 177 creditors. The Graveyard Shift Epiphany: The raw story of moving from the NFL spotlight to a $8.25/hr custodian job in Raleigh and the "trash bag moment" that sparked his comeback. Active Listening as a Revenue Stream: Why Marques considers "listening" the most profitable skill he took from the NFL to his career as a global keynote speaker. 2026 Super Bowl Preview: A professional's take on the Seahawks vs. Patriots match-up and why the "point of attack" is where games—and businesses—are won or lost. The "Athlete Pivot" Framework Marques outlines the specific strategy he used to transition from professional sports to becoming one of the most sought-after consultants in the country. NFL Discipline Business Application Film Study Post-Mortem Business Audits Active Listening Client Needs Assessment The "Gridiron Grit" Resilience During Market Pivots Standardized Training Scalable Operational Systems Top Takeaways for Creative Entrepreneurs Respect the Grind: Ego is the silent killer of successful startups. The 4 Pillars of Speaking: If you want the big stages, focus on your website, video reels, client logos, and testimonials. Vulnerability is Authority: People don't buy "perfect"; they buy the lessons learned from the "ugly" parts of your story. Connect with Marques Ogden Website: MarquesOgden.com Podcast: Get Authentic with Marques Ogden LinkedIn: Connect with Marques Follow The Creative Entrepreneur: Are you ready to build your skyscraper? Subscribe to the show for weekly deep dives into the minds of icons. Don't forget to Rate and Review—it helps other entrepreneurs find these lessons! NFL Business Lessons: Marques Ogden on the Audit of a $20M Failure The high-performance habits that get you to the NFL are the same ones that can lead to a business collapse if your ego takes the wheel. In this episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominic Domasky sit down with former NFL offensive lineman Marques Ogden. Marques didn't just play for the Jaguars, Ravens, and Bills—illegally heavy at 375 lbs—he built a construction empire that reached eight figures before it completely imploded. We are performing a "post-mortem" on a $20 million business failure to extract the specific NFL business lessons that every entrepreneur needs to hear before they scale. Inside the Episode: The Gridiron to the Boardroom The Anatomy of a Collapse: Marques opens up his "audit" of how he spent $3 million in 90 days and why a $20M company vanished, leaving him with $400 and 177 creditors. The Graveyard Shift Epiphany: The raw story of moving from the NFL spotlight to a $8.25/hr custodian job in Raleigh and the "trash bag moment" that sparked his comeback. Active Listening as a Revenue Stream: Why Marques considers "listening" the most profitable skill he took from the NFL to his career as a global keynote speaker. 2026 Super Bowl Preview: A professional's take on the Seahawks vs. Patriots match-up and why the "point of attack" is where games—and businesses—are won or lost. The "Athlete Pivot" Framework Marques outlines the specific strategy he used to transition from professional sports to becoming one of the most sought-after consultants in the country. NFL Discipline Business Application Film Study Post-Mortem Business Audits Active Listening Client Needs Assessment The "Gridiron Grit" Resilience During Market Pivots Standardized Training Scalable Operational Systems Top Takeaways for Creative Entrepreneurs Respect the Grind: Ego is the silent killer of successful startups. The 4 Pillars of Speaking: If you want the big stages, focus on your website, video reels, client logos, and testimonials. Vulnerability is Authority: People don't buy "perfect"; they buy the lessons learned from the "ugly" parts of your story. Connect with Marques Ogden Website: MarquesOgden.com Podcast: Get Authentic with Marques Ogden LinkedIn: Connect with Marques Follow The Creative Entrepreneur: Are you ready to build your skyscraper? Subscribe to the show for weekly deep dives into the minds of icons. Don't forget to Rate and Review—it helps other entrepreneurs find these lessons! 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.

Meet Karen Conti LIVE (and JULIE AND DOM) at Cre8tive Con IN CHICAGO www.cre8tivecon.com How do you go from defending the world’s most infamous serial killer to hosting a radio show for 30 years? In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur, we sit down with Karen Conti—veteran criminal defense attorney, WGN Radio host, and author of the gripping new book, "Killing Time." Karen shares the high-stakes reality of joining the final defense team for John Wayne Gacy and how she transformed a controversial, high-pressure legal case into a multi-decade career in national media. Whether you are navigating a PR crisis or looking to build a powerful public brand, Karen’s insights on "the pivot" are essential for every entrepreneur. Inside the Episode: High-Stakes Storytelling The Gacy Files: What it was really like to sit across from a sociopath and why Karen took the case to fight for the bigger picture of legal justice. Controlling the Narrative: How to take a "sink or swim" situation and leverage it into appearances on Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC. The "Camera Ready" Rule: Why being an expert isn't enough—you need to master the visual and verbal polish required for the spotlight. Finding Your Lane: How to identify your unique area of expertise and become the "go-to" source for producers and journalists. The Psychology of Likability: Lessons from Karen’s father (a stand-up comic) on winning over an audience, even when the subject matter is dark. Serial Killer Lore: A "Jules' Rules" Special Julie and Karen dive into the true crime fascination that grips the nation. They discuss the profiles of the most infamous figures in history, including John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, Ted Bundy, and the mystery of Jack the Ripper. Actionable Tips for Creative Entrepreneurs "There is a very fine line between being courageous and bold and being naively stupid. Stretch your abilities, have confidence, and then work hard to prove you can do what you say you're going to do." — Karen Conti Audit Your Media: Watch your own recordings to check body language and catch "filler words" like um, so, and you know. The "Helper" Strategy: Don't just pitch yourself; offer to explain complex topics to producers without being on camera. Professional Preparedness: Keep a "media kit" in your car—a polished jacket and a grooming kit. You never know when a 45-second window for a national interview will open. Connect with Karen Conti Read the Book: Killing Time: My Experience on the John Wayne Gacy Final Defense Team WGN Radio: The Karen Conti Show Official Website: KarenConti.com Law Firm: CONTI & DOLAN Join the Community Live in Chicago? Don't miss Creative Con! Meet Dom, Julie, and our community of innovators. Click here for Creative Con Links & Tickets. Sponsor Shoutout – Keap This episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is proudly sponsored by Keap—the all-in-one CRM and automation platform designed to help entrepreneurs work smarter, not harder. From managing contacts and automating follow-ups to streamlining sales and marketing, Keap helps you stay organized, save time, and grow your business with confidence. If you’re ready to stop juggling tools and start scaling with intention, Keap has your back. Why Dom & Julie Are Obsessed with Keap Dom and Julie are obsessed with Keap—because it actually does what entrepreneurs need it to do. Keap keeps their contacts organized, automates follow-ups, and makes running a business feel way less chaotic. When your CRM works as hard as you do, everything changes. If you’re serious about scaling without the stress, Keap is a no-brainer.Learn more at www.keap.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.

Join Us LIVE at Cre8tive Con and Save $50 with code KWIK50 at checkout www.cre8tivecon.com One dropped out of college; one walked away from a media giant. Together, they have built creator empires worth over $200 million. In this high-impact episode of The Creative Entrepreneur, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky break down the psychological "hooks" and relentless consistency behind the world’s most successful creators: Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast) and Alex Cooper (Call Her Daddy). Whether you are building a boutique brand or scaling a media powerhouse, the blueprint remains the same. We explore how MrBeast treats every YouTube upload like a Super Bowl halftime show—averaging 100 million views per video—and how Alex Cooper turned intimate conversations into a $60M+ Spotify windfall. Inside the Episode: The Power of the Hook: Why your first 5 seconds determine your next 5 years. Consistency vs. Virality: Analyzing MrBeast’s decade-long "grind" before the millions arrived. The Early Adopter (or "Adapter") Debate: How to identify the next big platform (TikTok, AI, or Podcasting) before the crowd arrives. The "Football Widow" Strategy: A special Jules’ Rules segment on balancing high-performance business with family life and personal time. The GaryVee Connection: Why Gary Vaynerchuk’s "Education-First" model is the third pillar of creator success. Featured Thought Leaders: Alex Cooper: Host of Call Her Daddy MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson): The King of YouTube Gary Vaynerchuk: CEO of VaynerMedia Location Highlight: Recorded at the Cre8tive Con headquarters, serving the global entrepreneur community with high-impact networking and strategic business growth. Join the AMPED Community Don't build in isolation. Join AMPED, our exclusive online community hosted by Brian P. Swift. We meet monthly to curate thought leaders and offer high-impact networking opportunities for creators and entrepreneurs. www.cre8tivecon.com/amped Cre8tive Con & The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast: Expert FAQs About Cre8tive Con What is Cre8tive Con and where is it located? Cre8tive Con is the premier business and networking expo for creative entrepreneurs, authors, and media professionals. The 2026 conference is held at the historic InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue. It serves as a high-energy "profit center" where innovators learn to monetize their craft through podcasting, publishing, and public speaking. Who should attend Cre8tive Con 2026? The event is designed for creative entrepreneurs, freelancers, coaches, and content creators who want to scale their brand. Whether you’re an author looking for a book signing opportunity, a podcaster wanting to use our Podcasting Lab, or a business owner seeking high-impact networking, Cre8tive Con provides the tools to turn visibility into revenue. What unique experiences are offered at the conference? Beyond the main stage, attendees can access the Cre8tive Concourse featuring: Media Alcove: For content creation and interviews. Headshot Headquarters (Floor 5): Professional branding photography. Pitch Sessions: A gamified experience in the Grand Ballroom where you can pitch live to experts for a chance to win a guest spot on a top-ranked podcast. MicroCon: Hands-on intensives in the Streeterville Room focusing on AI, monetization, and 2026 media strategies. About the Founders: Julie Lokun & Dominick Domasky Who is Julie Lokun, JD? Julie Lokun is a best-selling author, media strategist, and the CEO of The Mediacasters. With a background in law and journalism, she specializes in helping entrepreneurs anoint and point their strategic growth. She is a contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine and hosts podcasts ranked in the top 1% globally, including Obsessed and The Creative Entrepreneur. Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick Domasky is a renowned author, motivational speaker, and founder of Motivation Champs. Known for his "masterclass in resilience," Dominick helps others turn their life stories into published works. He has authored several books, including Don’t Double Bread the Fish and The Journey of a Grunt, and is a co-founder of Cre8tive Con. The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast What is the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast about? Hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, the show is a powerhouse for Business News, growth strategy, and monetization. It consistently ranks #1 on Apple Podcasts under Business News. The show features deep dives into creator empires like MrBeast and Alex Cooper, offering actionable blueprints for listeners to build their own $200M brands. How can I become a guest on the podcast? One of the most exclusive ways to secure a guest spot is by participating in the Pitch Sessions at Cre8tive Con. The winner of these sessions earns a coveted interview on the show to share their story with a global audience of high-level entrepreneurs. 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.

Join US LIVE AT CRE8TIVE CON : www.cre8tivecon.com Are you ready to join the 40% of Americans turning their passion into a paycheck? Welcome to the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. If you’ve ever wondered how to transition from a dreamer to a Creative CEO, this episode is your blueprint. Your hosts, Julie Lokun and Lauren Erickson (the "Homegirls" of business growth), break down the exact framework needed to build a brand that resonates and a business that scales. In today’s market, being "talented" isn't enough. You need a Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and a strategy to monetize your ideas. Whether you are looking for a business mentor near you or trying to master digital marketing for creators, we are diving deep into the "Mediacaster" method of building industry authority. What You’ll Learn: Identifying Your Unique Value Proposition: How to stand out in a saturated digital landscape. Side Hustle to CEO: The step-by-step transition to building a sustainable creative business. Monetization for Creators: Practical ways to turn your art into multiple revenue streams. Brand Messaging: How to craft a story that attracts your "Creative Elite" audience. Free Entrepreneur Resources: How to leverage Score.org for expert business mentorship and local growth. Episode Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction: Why 2026 is the year of the Creative Entrepreneur. 05:30 - Defining your Unique Selling Proposition (USP). 12:15 - The Side Hustle Statistics: Why 40% of the workforce is shifting. 18:45 - How to find a business mentor and use free resources. 25:10 - Monetizing creative passions: From "Audiocasters" to high-ticket offers. 32:00 - Joining the Creative Elite community. Connect & Scale Your Business Official Website: Big Better Brand – Start your journey here. Join the Community: (11) CRE8TIVE CON | Facebook– Free for a limited time! Upcoming Event: Cre8tive Con – Create a buzz for your brand. The Book: Audiocasters: How to Launch, Market, and Monetize Your Podcast. Buy it on Amazon! Free Resource: Get expert business mentorship at Score.org. 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.

JOIN DOM AND JULIE LIVE AT CRE8TIVE CON IN CHICAGO AND SAVE $50 with code KWIK50 at CHECKOUT! www.cre8tivecon.com Is burnout holding you back from your creative potential? As we kick off 2026, the pressure to "do it all" is at an all-time high. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, we sit down with Michael Mannix, co-founder of Unparalleled Performance and author of the number one bestselling book, The Five Ls: The Gift of a Balanced Life. Mike brings 30 years of high-level corporate experience—including executive board membership for a global BPO—to help entrepreneurs and leaders find resilience through a science-supported framework. Whether you are a business owner in Chicago or a creative professional working globally, this episode provides the roadmap to stop "chasing the dollar" and start changing your life. In This Episode, We Discuss: The Science of Disconnecting: How an "Attitude of Gratitude" releases oxytocin (the happy hormone) to physically change your brain chemistry. The Oxygen Mask Theory: Why self-love is a selfless act and why you are no good to your business or family until you take care of yourself first. The 5 Ls Framework: A deep dive into Love, Laughter, Labor, Leisure, and Leave. Leaving the Corporate Grind: Mike shares the raw story of walking away from a 22-year career during a global pandemic to pursue his purpose. Legacy & Success: A moving tribute to Mike’s father and how a line of hundreds at a funeral redefined what "success" actually looks like. The 2026 Success List: Why you should ditch New Year’s resolutions for a "Success List" that includes things you need to stop doing. The Five Ls Breakdown: Love: It starts with self-love; without it, all else fails. Laughter: Don’t take yourself too seriously—manage stress through positive thinking. Labor: Finding passion and purpose in your work to stay mentally and physically healthy. Leisure: Recharging your "internal battery" with the same urgency you charge your phone. Leave: The power of walking away from what no longer serves you to embrace positive change. Key Quotes from Mike Mannix: "Your company is going to go on without you. If you put yourself in the hospital because you didn't take time for yourself, the world keeps spinning. Plan your time. You are worth it." "The true measure of success is gauged by the amount of lives that you touch and lead for the better." Resources Mentioned: Book: The Five Ls: The Gift of a Balanced Life (Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble) Website: UnparalleledPerformance.com – Take the Free Self-Assessment to see which of your Ls are out of balance! Upcoming Event: Catch Jim Kwik at Creative Con this February in Chicago! Connect with Mike Mannix: LinkedIn: Michael Mannix Instagram/TikTok/X: @UnparalleledPerformance Connect with The Creative Entrepreneur: Subscribe & Review: If this episode helped you, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Creative Fridays: Follow Dom’s lead and schedule your creative deep-work time every Friday. What L are you focusing on this week? Reach out to us on social media and let us know! FOLLOW US on INSTAGRAM @cre8tivecon 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.

Meet Dom and Julie Live in Chicago! Save $50 TODAY at checkout by using the code KWIK50. www.cre8tivecon.com While Dominick on assignment, Julie is taking the mic and talking all things New Years, burnout and goals. Happy New Year from your favorite entrepreneurs, Dom and Julie As a creative entrepreneur, you are expected to do everything at once: build the business, stay visible, create content, manage relationships, and still have energy left for your life. In this solo episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun, JD breaks down why this approach leads to burnout and how intentional goal setting can change everything. Julie shares her personal shift away from traditional New Year’s resolutions and toward a more sustainable model built on clarity, energy protection, and aligned growth. This episode is designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, founders, and thought leaders who want to scale their impact without sacrificing joy, health, or meaning. Intentional Goal Setting for Creative Entrepreneurs Instead of setting dozens of goals, Julie explains why choosing one personal goal and one professional goal creates focus, momentum, and peace. She shares how overachievement often disguises exhaustion and why fewer priorities lead to better results. This episode reframes success for creative entrepreneurs by shifting the focus from productivity to intentionality and alignment. How to Protect Your Energy as a Business Owner Julie dives deep into why protecting physical and emotional energy is essential for long-term entrepreneurial success. She discusses learning to say no without overexplaining, choosing rest before resentment, and breaking the myth that exhaustion equals ambition. Creative entrepreneurs will learn why energy management is one of the most valuable business skills they can develop. Building a Business with Aligned Clients and Collaborators On the professional side, Julie shares why she is choosing to amplify fewer voices more powerfully. She explains how working with aligned clients produces exponential results and why success must always be a shared responsibility. This conversation is especially relevant for service-based entrepreneurs, creatives, coaches, and consultants who want deeper impact rather than wider reach. Essentialism and Going Deeper, Not Wider Julie references the book Essentialism by Greg McKeown as a guiding framework for simplifying decisions and eliminating non-essential work. This approach allows creative entrepreneurs to focus on what truly moves the needle in both business and life. Honoring Your Season of Life Rather than putting pressure on a single day or month, Julie encourages listeners to ask a more important question: What season of life am I in? Growth, she explains, comes from integration, not urgency. This perspective is especially helpful for entrepreneurs navigating transitions, burnout recovery, career pivots, or personal challenges. The Proof of Life Concept Julie introduces the idea of creating a proof of life list to recognize resilience. Whether you faced relationship challenges, business setbacks, health issues, or financial uncertainty, surviving counts and deserves acknowledgment. This practice helps creative entrepreneurs build confidence, self-trust, and emotional resilience. Why Relationships Matter More Than Algorithms Julie shares why some of her most meaningful opportunities came from real conversations rather than content creation. By prioritizing relationships over algorithms, she built deeper connections and more sustainable success. This insight is crucial for entrepreneurs who feel drained by social media but still want meaningful visibility. Planning Joy as a Business Strategy Joy is not optional. Julie explains why planning joy on purpose is essential for creativity, clarity, and longevity in business. When joy is not scheduled, stress takes over. Creative entrepreneurs are encouraged to reconnect with curiosity, play, and experiences that restore energy. Resources Mentioned Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeownJim Kwik’s teachings on beginner’s brain and limitless learningCre8tive Con 2025 in ChicagoLearn more at www.cre8tivecon.com This Episode Is For You If You are a creative entrepreneur feeling overwhelmed or burned outYou want to grow your business without sacrificing your well-beingYou struggle with overcommitting and under-recoveringYou want aligned clients and meaningful workYou are ready to choose clarity, focus, and purpose Final Takeaway You are not behind. You are building something meaningful. Success for creative entrepreneurs is not about doing more. It is about doing what matters with intention, alignment, and energy. 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.

Meet Us LIVE in Chicago this February: www.cre8tivecon.com In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun, JD, founder of Cre8tive Con and The Mediacasters, sits down with entrepreneur, publisher, and storytelling strategist Dominick Domasky to discuss business growth, money mindset, and taking calculated risks as an entrepreneur. This conversation explores how community building, storytelling, income-generating activities, and purpose-driven leadership create sustainable business success. Entrepreneurs and creatives will learn how to balance family, revenue, and modern digital tools like AI, podcasting, and video to build authority, scale their brand, and grow a resilient business in today’s digital economy. Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky share why community building is essential for entrepreneurs and creatives who want to grow beyond isolation. From Cre8tive Con to trusted business networks, success accelerates when founders surround themselves with doers, movers, shakers, and visionaries who are committed to growth and accountability. Dominick explains why storytelling is one of the most powerful branding tools in modern entrepreneurship. By integrating personal stories into business, entrepreneurs create emotional connection, trust, and memorability that set them apart in crowded markets. The conversation also explores work-life balance for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining family relationships and personal values while pursuing ambitious professional goals. Julie and Dominick reinforce the idea that true success includes both business achievement and a fulfilling personal life. Listeners will learn the importance of incremental growth and building a strong foundation inch by inch, rather than chasing shortcuts or overnight success. This steady approach allows entrepreneurs to create scalable businesses that withstand market changes. Purpose-driven business is another core theme, with Dominick sharing his mission to spread inspiration, positivity, and meaningful impact through content and publishing. The discussion highlights how purpose and profitability can work together to create sustainable revenue and long-term influence. Julie and Dominick also dive into income-generating activities and why entrepreneurs must stay focused on revenue-producing actions while working toward larger visions. This balanced strategy ensures financial stability while allowing room for innovation and expansion. The episode highlights the importance of networking, partnerships, and relationship building as key drivers of business success. Strategic collaborations and authentic connections open doors to opportunities that cannot be achieved alone. Finally, the conversation addresses the necessity of adapting to modern digital tools, including AI, podcasting, and video content. Entrepreneurs who embrace these platforms position themselves as authorities and stay competitive in today’s digital-first business landscape. WE ARE CRE8TIVESwww.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.

Join Us Live in Chicago this February! www.cre8tivecon.com What if the most powerful sales lessons did not come from a boardroom, a funnel, or a script but from behind a bar? In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominic Domasky sit down with sales expert and author Neil Rogers for a candid, practical, and deeply human conversation about sales, business, and life. Neil Rogers is the author of Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the Bar, a book that reframes selling through the lens of hospitality, emotional intelligence, and real human connection. Julie describes the book as dog-eared, underlined, and transformational, not just for business owners but for how we navigate relationships, pressure, and communication in everyday life. This episode is a must-listen for small business owners, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, coaches, consultants, and side hustlers who want to grow revenue without sacrificing authenticity. What You Will Learn in This Episode How hospitality principles translate directly into successful salesWhy reading people is more important than reading scriptsHow to build instant rapport without sounding salesyThe power of remembering names and why it builds trust fastHow bartenders master upselling without pressureWhy organization and time management are sales superpowersHow to handle difficult customers with patience and professionalismWhy sales skills are actually life skillsHow humility and kindness create long-term business success From Behind the Bar to the Business World Neil explains that bartenders are some of the best sales professionals in the world because they master first impressions, active listening, emotional regulation, and service under pressure. Behind the bar, you learn quickly that people want to be seen, heard, and respected. The same is true in business. Neil shares stories from decades in hospitality and entrepreneurship that illustrate how showing up on time, being prepared, listening more than talking, and treating everyone like a regular creates trust and loyalty that no sales tactic can replace. As Neil puts it, we are not in the product business, we are in the hospitality business. A Powerful and Personal Conversation This episode goes deeper than sales. Neil opens up about his personal journey as a father to a non-speaking autistic son and discusses the impact of the book Underestimated and the practice of spelling to communicate. It is a powerful reminder that communication, leadership, and sales all begin with empathy and the willingness to truly listen. This conversation reinforces why Bar Tips is not just a sales book but a guide to being a better human in business and in life. Featured Book Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the BarBy Neil Rogers Get his book on Amazon: Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the Bar: Rogers, Neil: 9798886548235: Amazon.com: Books This book is ideal for entrepreneurs, small business owners, sales professionals, and anyone who works with people. It delivers practical lessons, real stories, and timeless principles that help you sell with confidence, integrity, and heart. Who This Episode Is For Small business ownersEntrepreneurs and foundersSales professionalsCoaches and consultantsSide hustlersCreative professionals building sustainable businessesAnyone who wants to improve communication, trust, and influence Memorable Quotes from the Episode Never avoid an opportunity to keep your mouth shutBe humble and be kindSales is not about pressure, it is about presence About The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is hosted by Julie Lokun, JD and Dominic Domasky. The show features conversations with entrepreneurs, authors, speakers, and industry leaders who share real-world strategies for building meaningful, profitable businesses rooted in creativity and connection. Subscribe, Review, and Share If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur or business owner. Your support helps more creatives and founders discover the show. Learn More and Join the Community Explore more episodes and upcoming events at www.cre8tivecon.com. Remember, everything great in business starts with how you treat people. 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.

JOIN US LIVE AT CRE8TIVE CONIf you believe in real relationships, real conversations, and real business growth, this is where you belong. Cre8tive Con is an in-person and online experience designed for entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners who want to build visibility, authority, and meaningful connections. Learn more and register at www.cre8tivecon.com. Use code KWIK50 to save 50 dollars. WELCOME TO THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR PODCASTWelcome to the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast with your favorite entrepreneurs, Julie Lokun and Dom Domasky. In this episode, Julie and Dom have a candid, practical conversation about networking that actually works. They explore the difference between online networking and in-person events, why human connection still matters in business, and how entrepreneurs can build relationships without feeling awkward, salesy, or inauthentic. This episode is especially relevant for business owners, founders, creatives, and those who are business-curious and wondering if networking is still worth the effort in today’s digital-first world. WHY NETWORKING STILL MATTERS FOR ENTREPRENEURSJulie and Dom discuss how networking has evolved since COVID and why many entrepreneurs now default to Zoom calls, online groups, and social media communities. While online networking is efficient and powerful, it cannot fully replace the energy, trust, and connection that happen when people meet face to face. Julie shares how much of her business and community were built online, but also opens up about the emotional impact of spending too much time behind a computer. Dom adds that in-person events like breakfast groups, chambers of commerce, and community meetups create opportunities that rarely happen on a screen. The takeaway is clear. Online networking works. In-person networking works. The strongest businesses use both. IN-PERSON NETWORKING VS ONLINE NETWORKINGDom shares his experience attending a local breakfast networking group where business owners meet regularly to collaborate, exchange ideas, and support one another. These smaller, consistent gatherings often lead to deeper relationships than one-off online introductions. Julie reflects on how online communities can grow quickly but can also feel transactional if there is no real relationship underneath. In-person interactions create memory, familiarity, and trust that last far beyond a single meeting. SCORE, CHAMBERS, AND COMMUNITY GROUPSJulie and Dom highlight SCORE as one of the most valuable and underused resources for entrepreneurs in the United States. SCORE offers free mentorship from experienced business professionals who have already navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship. Dom shares a lesson he learned through SCORE that stayed with him. Most business partnerships fail, and hearing that early can help entrepreneurs make smarter, more intentional decisions. They also discuss the value of chambers of commerce, Rotary clubs, Kiwanis, and local community organizations. These groups are often looking for speakers, volunteers, and leaders, making them excellent places to build visibility and credibility. NETWORKING TIPS THAT ACTUALLY WORKJulie is clear about one thing. Do not lead with a pitch. Real networking starts with curiosity and connection, not selling. Asking someone about themselves, making eye contact, and listening creates trust far more effectively than a rehearsed elevator pitch. Dom agrees with being human first while also emphasizing that entrepreneurs should know how to clearly explain what they do when asked. Many structured networking environments require short introductions, so preparation still matters. The balance is knowing your brand without leading with it. HOW TO START CONVERSATIONS NATURALLYJulie explains that one of the easiest ways to approach someone at a networking event is to comment on something happening in the moment. This could be the speaker, the venue, the food, or the shared experience of being there. Dom adds that the best networkers focus more on others than themselves. When you show genuine interest, people remember how you made them feel. THE POWER OF REMEMBERING NAMESJulie emphasizes that remembering people’s names is one of the most powerful and underrated networking skills. Remembering names and making thoughtful introductions builds trust, confidence, and long-term goodwill. WHY CRE8TIVE CON MATTERSJulie and Dom close the episode by sharing why Cre8tive Con is a model for modern networking. It blends in-person connection with media education, podcasting, publishing, branding, AI, and authority building. Cre8tive Con brings together entrepreneurs, authors, speakers, and media professionals who have built real businesses and real brands. Julie shares that the event fuels her energy and vision for the entire year. If you want to grow your business, expand your visibility, and build relationships that matter, Cre8tive Con is designed for you. Visit www.cre8tivecon.com and use code KWIK50 to save 50 dollars. FINAL TAKEAWAYIf you want stronger relationships, better opportunities, and sustainable growth, you have to step out from behind the screen. Online networking is powerful, but real-life connection accelerates trust and impact. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with another entrepreneur, rate and review the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is the best way to network as an entrepreneur?The most effective networking combines online communities with in-person events. Focus on building relationships first rather than selling. Is in-person networking still worth it?Yes. In-person networking builds trust faster, creates stronger connections, and makes you more memorable. What is SCORE and who should use it?SCORE is a free mentorship organization in the United States that connects entrepreneurs with experienced business mentors. Do I need an elevator pitch?You should understand and be able to explain what you do, but avoid leading with a pitch. Let conversations develop naturally. What is Cre8tive Con?Cre8tive Con is a live and online conference for entrepreneurs focused on media, branding, networking, podcasting, publishing, AI, and business growth. Who should attend Cre8tive Con?Entrepreneurs, creatives, founders, speakers, authors, coaches, and business owners who want to grow their visibility, credibility, and connections. Where can I register?You can register at www.cre8tivecon.com and use code KWIK50 to save 50 dollars. 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.

Join Us Live At Cre8tive Con This February! www.cre8tivecon.com The economy is shifting, budgets are tighter, and entrepreneurs everywhere are asking the same question: Is it even possible to grow right now? In this solo episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, host Julie Lokun addresses the reality many business owners, creatives, coaches, consultants, podcasters, and service providers are facing. Organic reach is no longer enough, going viral is not a strategy, and luck will not build a sustainable business. Today’s entrepreneurs must learn how to strategically invest in their businesses in order to grow, scale, and monetize in an uncertain economy. Julie breaks down the concept of pay to play marketing and explains why investing in visibility, credibility, and lead generation is now a necessary part of doing business. She shares practical insights on where entrepreneurs should be allocating their marketing dollars and how to avoid emotional spending in favor of intentional, results-driven decisions. This episode covers key areas where investment matters most, including lead generation platforms, digital advertising, and in-person networking. Julie discusses how platforms like Thumbtack can provide quality leads when used strategically, why advertising on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Google, YouTube, and Pinterest can accelerate growth, and why real-life relationships and networking events continue to be powerful drivers of long-term opportunity. Listeners are guided through a business self-audit designed to help identify where current leads are coming from, which marketing efforts are producing real return on investment, and what activities may be draining time and money without results. Julie emphasizes the importance of clarity in branding, messaging, and offers, and encourages entrepreneurs to stop chasing trends and start making informed decisions. The episode also highlights the importance of building a strong email list as a core business asset, optimizing LinkedIn for visibility and credibility, and consistently showcasing testimonials, case studies, and real client wins. Julie shares insights on reinvesting profits back into growth, drawing inspiration from successful creators who prioritize long-term strategy over short-term comfort. If you are an entrepreneur feeling the weight of today’s economy and wondering how to move forward with confidence, this episode offers a high-level masterclass on tightening your marketing strategy, investing wisely, and building momentum even in challenging times. Frequently Asked Questions What does “pay to play” mean in business? Pay to play means intentionally investing money into marketing, visibility, and lead generation instead of relying solely on organic reach, referrals, or luck. It is about using paid platforms and opportunities strategically to grow your business. Is it worth investing in marketing during a tough economy? Yes. Businesses that continue to invest wisely during uncertain economic times often gain market share while competitors pull back. Strategic investment allows you to stay visible, credible, and positioned for long-term growth. Where should small business owners invest first? Small business owners should prioritize lead generation platforms, digital advertising, and relationship-based networking. These areas directly impact visibility, client acquisition, and revenue when used intentionally. Are lead generation platforms actually effective? Lead generation platforms can be effective when used strategically. The key is creating a strong profile, managing your budget carefully, and treating leads as part of a larger client acquisition system rather than a quick fix. Do I really need paid ads to grow my business? While not every business relies solely on paid ads, most entrepreneurs can benefit from allocating part of their budget to advertising. Paid ads allow you to reach targeted audiences faster and more consistently than organic methods alone. Why is an email list more important than social media? An email list is an owned asset that gives you direct access to your audience. Unlike social media platforms, your email list cannot be taken away or limited by algorithm changes and typically converts at a higher rate. Is LinkedIn necessary for entrepreneurs? LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms for credibility and discoverability due to its high domain authority. A well-optimized LinkedIn profile often ranks at the top of Google searches and helps establish trust with potential clients. How do I know if my marketing is working? You know your marketing is working when it produces consistent leads, conversations, and revenue. Tracking where leads come from and auditing return on investment helps eliminate guesswork and wasted spending. How much should I be spending on marketing? There is no one-size-fits-all number, but most growing businesses allocate a percentage of their revenue toward marketing. The focus should be on intentional spending tied to clear goals and measurable outcomes. Mentioned in This Episode Lead generation platforms for service-based businessesDigital advertising on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Google, YouTube, and PinterestEmail list building and audience ownershipLinkedIn optimization and domain authorityIn-person networking and live eventsReinvesting in business growthCreative Icon Awards at Cre8tive Con Connect with Julie Lokun Email: [email protected]: www.cre8tivecon.comAwards Nominations: www.cre8tivecon.com/awards 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.

Meet Jim Kwik LIVE in Chicago, February 20th-22nd at Cre8tive Con! Save $50 with code KWIK50 today at checkout! www.cre8tivecon.com In this second installment of my in-depth interview with brain coach and bestselling author Jim Kwik, we explore the habits, mindset, and tools that have allowed him to transform early struggles with learning into a global impact movement. Jim explains why cognitive flexibility, mental agility, and the ability to learn how to learn are essential skills for entrepreneurs, creators, executives, and anyone navigating a rapidly changing world. Jim discusses the limitations of the traditional education system, the rising debate about whether college is necessary for entrepreneurs, and why most schools focus on what to learn instead of how to learn, how to think, how to focus, and how to remember. With over three decades of teaching accelerated learning, memory improvement, and brain optimization, Jim offers a rare perspective on real-world education and the skills that matter in an AI-driven future. He also shares powerful insights about entrepreneurship, including starting his first business at age 11, overcoming brain injury and bullying, and how introverts can still lead, teach, and speak on global stages. Jim explains the personal growth that comes from responsibility, fatherhood, discipline, and pursuing a mission larger than oneself. This episode provides actionable takeaways on mindset, learning, productivity, purpose, and resilience, while revealing the deeper motivations that continue to drive Jim’s work with millions of students worldwide. Key Topics Covered Why cognitive flexibility is essential for success in business and life The difference between learning information and learning how to think What schools get wrong about memory, focus, and real-world skills Is college necessary for modern entrepreneurs? How AI and online education are transforming how we learn Jim Kwik’s journey from learning struggles to teaching millions How introverts can succeed in entrepreneurship and leadership Burnout, overwhelm, and doing more of what lights you up Turning personal challenges into a purpose-driven mission The importance of community, mentorship, and lifelong learning Notable Quotes from Jim Kwik “School teaches you what to learn, but not how to think.”“Sometimes we feel burned out not because we are doing too much, but because we are doing too little of what makes us come alive.”“Passion is what lights you up. Purpose is how you use that passion to light others up.”“You can feel limited, but you are never limited. You can learn to expand what you believe is possible.” Listen If You Want To Improve your learning speed, memory, and focus Strengthen cognitive flexibility and mental performance Rethink education, college, and skill development in an AI-driven era Get unstuck and build momentum toward your goals Clarify your purpose and create a more meaningful career Understand the mindset behind successful entrepreneurs and creators 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.

Join Julie and Dom at Cre8tive Con 2026 Cre8tive Con returns in 2026 with a powerhouse lineup of creators, entrepreneurs, and global thought leaders. Join Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky in Chicago for an immersive, transformational experience featuring Jim Kwik, David Meltzer, James Orsini, and more industry innovators.Learn more at www.cre8tivecon.com. Guest: Glenn Rudin, Founder of Always Been Creative Glenn's website: www.alwaysbeencreative.com Connect on Linkedin: Glenn Rudin | LinkedIn IN THIS EPISODE: In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with renowned branding expert Glenn Rudin, widely known as The Message Master. With over forty years of experience in branding, packaging, communication strategy, and product development, Glenn helps entrepreneurs uncover the clear, compelling language that defines who they are, what they do, and why it matters. Glenn has guided both emerging entrepreneurs and major corporations in finding messages that sell, simplify, and inspire. Today, he brings his expertise to the podcast to help business owners elevate their visibility, sharpen their storytelling, and communicate with confidence. The conversation includes a brand-trivia challenge, valuable insights, and powerful takeaways for any entrepreneur ready to scale. What You Will Learn Why most entrepreneurs struggle to explain what they doGlenn breaks down the common mistakes business owners make when communicating their value, including overcomplication, inconsistency, and leading with irrelevant details. How to create messaging that instantly resonatesLearn the psychology behind simple, memorable, emotion-driven taglines and how to apply the same principles to your own brand. The formula for an effective ten-second messageGlenn demonstrates how entrepreneurs can craft a short, powerful introduction that sparks curiosity and starts meaningful conversations. A modern perspective on elevator pitchesDiscover why overly rehearsed, robotic pitches fall flat and how to deliver a natural, consistent introduction that positions you with authority. Why consistency is the foundation of trustGlenn explains why showing up once and disappearing for months destroys credibility and how posting regularly creates momentum. How to avoid marketing whiplashUnderstand how shifting your messaging daily confuses your audience and weakens your brand. Episode Highlights The Brand Trivia ChallengeJulie tests Glenn on iconic taglines from Nike, Wheaties, GE, KFC, and more. Glenn explains why these taglines have endured for generations and how they connect to customer psychology. Origin of The Message MasterGlenn shares how decades of experience in product development, packaging, messaging, and sales laid the foundation for his work. He also discusses how Clubhouse amplified his visibility and cemented the Message Master brand. Naming the Podcast SegmentJulie and Dom bring Glenn into their debate about what to call their recurring segment. Glenn offers creative options such as "Julie NOS" and "Jules Rules," each tied to Julie’s role as the go-to voice of clarity and insight. AI, virality, and digital disinformationThe trio discuss the rise of AI-generated videos, misinformation, and how today’s viral content can mislead audiences. They share thoughts on media literacy, authenticity, and consumer awareness. Real-world messaging strategyGlenn shares actionable steps business owners can use immediately, including testing your message, focusing on clarity, and speaking intentionally about your business in every setting. Top Takeaways for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners Clarity is more important than cleverness. Your introduction must be concise and curiosity-driven. Preparation does not mean sounding robotic. Consistency builds trust, visibility, and conversions. Stay in your lane and post content aligned to your brand. Relatability makes your message stronger than overly fancy language. Know your audience and speak directly to their needs. Quotable Moments “Stop counting other people’s numbers. You be you. That’s who you were meant to be.” – Glenn Rudin“If your message doesn’t spark curiosity in ten seconds, you need to start over.” – Glenn Rudin“Relatable beats fancy every time.” – Julie Lokun“Marketing whiplash happens when audiences never know what version of you they’re seeing.” – Glenn Rudin MORE ABOUT Glenn Rudin Glenn Rudin is a branding and messaging strategist, product development expert, and founder of Always Been Creative. With more than forty years of experience working with global brands and entrepreneurial businesses, Glenn helps clients develop clear, compelling messages that stand out and sell. Connect with Glenn:Website: www.alwaysbeencreative.comLinkedIn: Search for Glenn Rudin Join the Movement at Cre8tive Con Cre8tive Con brings together authors, speakers, entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators for a unique, high-energy conference experience designed to elevate your brand, voice, and business.Learn more or reserve your seat at www.cre8tivecon.com. Rate, Review, and Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. Your support helps the show reach more entrepreneurs who are ready to grow, scale, and create with intention. www.cre8tivecon.com Keep creating and keep building your legacy. 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.

️️️️️️️️️JOIN US LIVE AT CRE8TIVE CON IN CHICAGO IN FEBRUARY www.cre8tivecon.com A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR HOMEGIRL LAUREN ERICKSON FOR HOSTING THIS EPISODE OF CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR PODCAST! PLEASE REACH OUT TO HEAR! SHE IS FAMILY AND HELPED TO GROW THIS PODCAST AND CRE8TIVE CON SINCE DAY ONE!️ Home - Lauren Erickson When should I start marketing my book? You should begin marketing as soon as you start writing your book. Early marketing builds anticipation, visibility, and an engaged audience before launch. Do I need a niche as an author? Yes. Identifying your niche helps you attract the right audience, shape your messaging, and create content that resonates deeply with your ideal readers. How do I build an author platform? Start by creating consistent content, engaging with your audience, and choosing two to three strong communication channels such as a podcast, email list, or social media presence. What matters more—followers or engagement? Engagement is far more important. A small, loyal audience that interacts with your content will have a much greater impact on your book’s success than a large, passive following. What types of marketing should authors use? A combination of long-term organic marketing (content creation, audience building, branding) and short-term campaigns (paid ads, launch promos, media appearances) works best. Why is waiting to market a book a mistake? Waiting until the end creates pressure, limits visibility, and reduces your ability to build relationships with readers. Early marketing provides momentum and long-term reach. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Start Marketing Early Why beginning your marketing efforts as soon as you start writing your book prevents rush, stress, and missed opportunities—and dramatically increases your success. Identify Your Niche and Target Audience How defining your niche and understanding your ideal reader influences your messaging, marketing direction, and the overall purpose of your book. Create Targeted, Meaningful Content How to develop content that speaks directly to your audience’s pain points, interests, questions, and needs using your own personal experiences and insights. Explore Multiple Communication Channels Lauren shares how experimenting with various platforms—podcasts, newsletters, social media, blogs—helps you discover where your audience is most engaged. Engagement Over Follower Count Why engagement, trust, and connection matter more than having thousands of passive followers. Build a Personal Brand with Purpose How aligning your brand with your mission, vision, and values creates connection, credibility, and long-term reader loyalty. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Marketing Strategies Insight into balancing organic, long-term content creation with short-term promotional campaigns to maximize your reach and book sales. Why This Episode Matters Many authors wait too long to market their books, leaving them scrambling when launch time arrives. Lauren explains how early, intentional marketing empowers writers to build momentum, establish anticipation, and create a community ready to support and promote their work the moment it's released. 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.

MEET US LIVE IN FEBRUARY AT CRE8TIVE CON: www.cre8tivecon.com This week, the Creative Entrepreneur Pod welcomes a fresh voice! Emily Aborn, host of Small Business Casual and seasoned small business copywriter, takes the mic for Julie and Dom in a value-packed solo episode designed to help creative entrepreneurs simplify their decision-making process. What’s Inside: Meet Emily! Emily Aborn introduces herself and shares her passion for helping entrepreneurs cut the noise, get focused, and enjoy a thriving business. The Entrepreneurial Roller Coaster Feeling overwhelmed by shiny new ideas, opportunities, and endless “shoulds” in business and creativity? You’re not alone! Emily Aborn opens up about her own journey—from chasing every idea to learning the power of discernment. The Four Questions That Will Change Your YESes (and NOs!) Before saying yes (or no) to that next project, platform, collaboration, or opportunity, Emily Aborn shares her four-question framework: Do I want this?(Not just the task, but the outcome!) Do I have time for this?The hidden costs you didn’t think about. Can I do this now?Skills, resources, and sometimes, a permission slip. Will I do this?The ultimate gut-check for follow-through. Practical Takeaways How to pause before progressing, say yes from a place of authenticity, and give yourself permission to rest, regroup, and make space for what truly matters. Actions for Listeners After listening, take one step toward the project, idea, or decision that gets an authentic YES across the board! Connect with Emily: If this episode resonates, binge her show, Small Business Casual, or connect at the links in the show notes. Thank you Julie and Dom: A big thanks to Julie and Dom for the collaboration, and for letting Emily Aborn share her insights with the Creative Entrepreneur Pod audience. Listeners, your big ideas are important! Simplify, get cozy, and make every yes count. About Emily Aborn: www.emilyaborn.com Emily Aborn can all but promise she'll help you make your marketing more fun and bring a sense of ease to your visibility efforts! She's a Small Business Copywriter, Speaker, and Content Marketing Consultant. Over the last decade, she's written it all (from hypnosis to home-bulding), and has over a decade of business ownership experience. She's collaborated with 1,000's of individuals in their marketing and written for 115+ industries. For fun, she enjoys reading, exploring nature, nerding out on word games, and spending time with her husband and family. 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.