The Business of Video Production

What actually creates momentum in a video production business?Why do some people take coaching, ideas, and strategies and genuinely run with them… while others stay stuck in the same patterns for years?On this episode, I continue my conversation with coaching client Nic Mongillo from Toronto, Canada.Last week we spoke about the practical side of growing a video business: systems, team, structure, leadership, and moving beyond being a solo operator.This week we go deeper into the mindset and behavioural side of growth.We unpack some of the qualities that have helped Nic build momentum over the past year, including:• Being genuinely coachable• Taking feedback without defensiveness• Staying consistent even when motivation drops• Learning to handle discomfort and uncertainty• Embracing repetition and the long game• Taking ideas and adapting them into your own style• Building self-trust through action• Moving from consuming information to implementing itOne of the things I respect most about Nic is that he didn’t try to copy me or become a clone of my approach. He used the coaching and frameworks as a foundation, then built his own way of communicating, selling, leading, and running his business.This episode is really about the gap between knowing and doing. And how growth often comes from repeatedly leaning into situations that feel uncomfortable until they eventually become normal.If you’re trying to grow your production company, improve your sales process, become more disciplined, or simply develop more resilience as a business owner, I think there’s a lot in this conversation that will resonate.And if you’d like help building a more focused, profitable, and sustainable video business, you can learn more about my coaching program.

What does it take to go from being a one-person operator to running a business with good systems and a team?On this episode, we welcome back one of my coaching clients, Nic Mongillo, from Toronto, Canada.Nic first appeared on the podcast back on episode 58. We recorded that episode together 9 months ago. And I called it “How to go Pro with your video business.” And if you haven't listened to it, I really recommend checking it out.This is the next part of the journey. I’ve been coaching Nic for a year and a half now. And I can’t wait for him to share the transformation his business has experienced since the last episode. There’s so much that I think you’ll be able to pick up from what he shares and apply it to your own business.If you'd like to learn more about me, check out my website

Most video producers know they should be posting more on LinkedIn. They’ve got great work, smart ideas, and interesting stories from the field, but for some reason, they hold back. Maybe it feels awkward. Maybe they don’t know what to say. Or maybe they’ve posted before and nothing happened.In this episode of The Business of Video Production Podcast, Ryan Spanger breaks down how to build a content strategy for LinkedIn that feels natural, human, and effective.He shares five simple types of posts that video producers can rotate through, and explains how to make each one engaging and real. You’ll learn how to stay top-of-mind with clients, build authority, and show up consistently without overthinking it.Ryan also talks about how to think about LinkedIn as part of your business infrastructure, why your personal page matters more than your company page, and how the rise of AI has made authentic human voice more valuable than ever.If you’ve been overthinking what to post, or worrying about sounding “salesy” or fake, this episode will help you find your rhythm.You’ll learn how to:Post with confidence, without over-polishingBuild awareness instead of chasing likesUse the “five content buckets” to create varietyStay consistent so clients remember you when it mattersTo see examples of Ryan’s behind-the-scenes content or learn more about his coaching for video production business owners, visit ⁠ryanspanger.com/coaching⁠. Or ⁠connect on LinkedIn⁠.

Are you working harder than ever, but still not getting the results you want?You’re editing, quoting, filming, following up... replying to client emails at 10pm. You’re grinding. But it still feels like something’s off.In this episode, I want to show you a different way of thinking. One that’s helped me, and many of my coaching clients, escape the cycle of overwork and under-earning.It’s called the 80/20 Rule.We’ll unpack the surprising origin of the Pareto Principle, why most video producers stay stuck in the 80%, and what it actually means to be in the 20: the group of businesses that earn more, stress less, and operate with clarity and calm.You’ll learn how to:Focus on the right clients, and drop the ones draining your energyOffer services that are profitable and easy to deliverCut through the noise in your marketingAnd reclaim your time for the work that really moves the needleThis isn’t about working more. It’s about working better.So if you’re ready to stop chasing and start building, hit play.For coaching and support to build a calm, profitable video business, visit ⁠ryanspanger.com

If you're not a natural salesperson, if you dislike high-pressure sales tactics, and if the idea of "closing the deal" makes you uncomfortable, this episode is for you.In this episode of The Business of Video Production Podcast, I break down how videographers and video producers can sell authentically: without tricks, hacks, or pushy techniques. I share my journey from struggling with sales to developing a natural, effective approach that feels right. You'll learn: Why being a "non-salesy" person can actually be an advantage. How to attract the right clients so sales conversations flow naturally. The key to positioning yourself so clients are already half-convinced before you even speak. Why traditional sales tactics are becoming less effective, and what to do instead.If you’ve ever felt like sales isn’t your strength, this episode will help you build confidence and sell in a way that’s true to you.Visit my website:⁠ https://www.ryanspanger.com/blog/sales-for-video-producers

A year ago, I released the Iron Man Model as a six-part series.I’ve been thinking about that series again recently and decided to bring the whole model back together in one place as a single episode.Partly because it was originally broken up, and it’s much easier to take it in as a complete framework. But also because, over the past year, it has become more relevant.There’s more uncertainty in the market. Clients are expecting more while keeping a closer eye on budgets. And AI has moved from something people were curious about to something that is actively shaping how work gets done.This episode is the full version, start to finish. If you heard it the first time around, it gives you a chance to revisit it with a bit more experience behind you. And if you’re new to it, this will give you the full framework in one go.At its core, the Iron Man Model is about running a video production company in a way that is lean, efficient, and able to adapt to what’s actually happening in the market.Inside this episode, I walk through the five pillars that make up the model: Why AI can be your thinking partner, not just a tool for automationHow smart delegation helps you stay focused on high-value workSetting up marketing systems that work while you are busy with clientsInnovating your workflow, services, and offers to stay ahead of the curveAnd the most important part of all: your own personal transformationA big theme that runs through all of it is the idea of travelling light. There’s a natural tendency in this industry to keep adding more over time. More gear, more people, more layers of complexity. But the businesses that will succeed best now and into the future are the ones that have simplified and become more focused.If you’ve been following along for a while, you’ll recognise a lot of this, but you might hear it differently now. And if you’re coming to it fresh, this will give you the full picture in one place.If you want help applying this to your own business, you can find more about my coaching at ryanspanger.com/coaching.

You know the job isn’t right.The budget feels off. The scope is messy. It’s going to pull you back into doing more than you want. But it fills the week. It brings money in. It solves the immediate problem.So you take it.This episode is about that moment.We get into the idea of playing the long game in a video production business.• The gap between effort and reward, and why most people struggle to stay in it• What the Stanford marshmallow experiment actually tells us (and what it doesn’t)• The tension between needing money now and building something better over time• Why “not leaving money on the table” can sometimes work against you• How strong client relationships actually start and grow• A real story from my own business that shows the cost of short-term thinkingIf you want help building a business where you’re not constantly reacting to whatever comes in, that’s exactly what I work on with production company owners.You can find more at:ryanspanger.com/coaching

This episode comes from a listener question sent in by Liston in the Bahamas… and it opens up something a lot of video production businesses struggle with.How do you create an offer that actually makes it easier for a client to say yes?We get into what’s really going on in a client’s head before they make a decision… the tension between what they want and what they’re worried about… and how most production companies unknowingly make that tension worse.From there, we unpack practical ways to reduce risk, build trust, and structure your offer so that it feels easier to move forward.This includes: • Why most video production offers sound the same • How risk actually sits with the client (even when you think it doesn’t) • A real example of risk reversal that led to a long-term client • Where “grand slam offers” work… and where they don’t • How your offer should change depending on the stage of your business • Simple ways to make your offer more compelling without lowering your priceIf you’ve got a question you’d like me to cover on the podcast, send it through.And if you’ve been getting value from these episodes, a follow or review helps more people find the show.

Have you ever sent an invoice, felt good about the work… and then the client pushes back?It’s a tough moment. You feel defensive. Like you need to justify yourself.But how you handle it matters. It can strengthen the relationship, or damage it.In this episode, I break down how to respond without getting emotional, how to explain your value clearly, and how to hold your ground while still protecting the relationship.In this episode:Why client objections aren’t always a bad thingWhere these situations usually come fromA simple 4-step way to handle the conversationWhen to stand firm and when to be flexibleA better way to think about value and pricingCoaching:If you want help handling situations like this in your business, head to:ryanspanger.com/coaching

If you’ve been listening to this podcast for a while, you probably have a sense of how I think about running a video production business. The strategies, the systems, the way I approach clients and pricing.And if you're new, it will help fill in some gaps and provide context.But what I don’t talk about very often is where all of that actually comes from.In this episode, I take a step back and share the story behind the podcast. Why I started it, what was going on in my life at the time, and how it connects to the way I run my business today.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why I committed to showing up every week, even when no one was listeningThe role this industry has played in my life over the last 25 yearsThe point where I started questioning what I was building and whyHow I moved from holding everything close to sharing it openlyWhat this podcast is really about beyond tactics and strategiesIf you’re in a moment where you’re questioning your direction, or thinking about what the next step looks like, this episode should give you something to think about.And if nothing else, it will give you a clearer sense of where these ideas come from and how you might apply them in your own way.

In this episode, Ryan walks through the practical steps behind building recurring video packages that actually work in a production business.You’ll learn how to think about retainers from the client’s perspective, how to structure the offer, and how to avoid the common mistakes that turn recurring work into a production treadmill.Ryan also explains:• The types of clients who are most likely to commit to ongoing video work• Why niching makes recurring packages dramatically easier to sell• How to reduce the perceived risk for clients when introducing a monthly agreement• The role systems and processes play in delivering recurring work profitably• How to define scope clearly so retainers don’t spiral out of control• Why many successful production companies treat retainer clients as a different category of customerIf you’ve ever thought about introducing recurring packages into your video business, this episode breaks down how to approach it in a thoughtful and sustainable way.Listen in to learn the practical thinking behind selling, structuring, and delivering recurring video work.

Many videographers start their careers filming weddings. It can be a great training ground and, for a time, a reliable source of income. But for many people, there eventually comes a moment where they begin to wonder if it’s time to move on.In this episode, I share my own experience moving from wedding videos into corporate video production. I talk about the early years of filming weddings, the skills it helped me develop, and the moments that made me realise it was time to step away and build something different.Wedding videos gave me hundreds of hours of practical experience behind the camera. They taught me how to work under pressure, capture moments as they unfold, and deal with unpredictable environments. At the same time, they also came with long days, intense pressure, and the challenge of balancing work with family life.This episode explores both sides of that journey.I also talk about the practical and psychological side of making the transition into corporate work, including how to use the experience you already have and how to start building a portfolio that attracts the kind of clients you want to work with.If you currently film weddings, are thinking about it, or are starting to feel ready for something different, this episode should give you a useful perspective on the path forward.In this episode:• The advantages of starting your career in wedding videography• What wedding videos taught me about shooting and storytelling• The realities of long wedding days and high-pressure shooting• The moment when good work can start to feel draining• Why it can be difficult to walk away from something that still works financially• Practical steps to transition from wedding work to corporate clients• The importance of building a portfolio and proof of capability• Knowing when it’s time to move on to the next chapterIf you run or are building a video production business and would like help attracting better clients and building a more sustainable company, you can learn more about my coaching here:ryanspanger.com/coaching

There’s a lot of noise right now about AI.And if you run a video production company, there’s a subtle pressure that you should be doing more. Experimenting more. Automating more. Keeping up.In this episode, I break down how I’m actually approaching AI in my own business. Where I’m using new tools to speed things up. Where I’m deliberately not getting distracted. And how I decide whether something earns its place.We talk about: • Using structured systems to improve website content • Tightening proposal writing • Speeding up the edit process without sacrificing story • Thinking more clearly instead of outsourcing judgementIf you’re trying to work out where to focus your energy this year, this should be a good discussion.You can find out more about working with me at ryanspanger.com/coaching.

There’s a business idea that gets repeated constantly in entrepreneurial circles. It sounds smart. Mature. Aspirational. If you hear it often enough, you start to assume it must be true. But the more I hear it, the more I’ve started to question it.In this episode, I take a widely accepted business idea, hold it up to scrutiny, and ask whether it actually serves you as a video production business owner, or whether it could pull you off course.This belief is a big one. You’ve definitely heard it. You may even be measuring yourself against it.In this episode, we explore: • Why certain business ideas spread quickly and get accepted as fact • How repetition can make something feel true, even when it deserves closer examination • The psychology behind wanting less involvement and more “freedom” • What I’ve observed from genuinely successful entrepreneurs, including those running very large organisations • The hidden cost of pulling back at the wrong time • A more practical way to think about leverage inside a production companyI also share stories from my own business over 25 years, including periods where I travelled for months while staying involved, and what actually happened when I experimented with stepping away. Some things worked reasonably well. Other things carried a cost that only showed up later.This episode is for you if you’ve wondered whether you’re building your business the “right” way, if you’ve felt pressure to structure things differently, or if you’re still heavily involved day to day and questioning whether that’s a flaw. It’s also for you if you want to think more critically about the advice that circulates online.And if you want support building a video production business that runs well, generates consistent leads, and improves year on year, you can find out more at ryanspanger.com. All the details are there, including how I work and what’s involved. You can join for a month or longer.Connect:⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Email⁠

This week I’m replaying Episode 1.When I recorded it, hardly anyone was listening. Since then, the audience has grown a lot. And I want newer listeners to understand what this podcast is actually about, and what I’m about.In this first episode, I answer some pretty direct questions:Who am I, and why should you listen to me?Do I actually understand the challenges you’re facing?What’s the philosophy behind this show?And what kind of video production business owner is this for?If you’re dealing with inconsistent work, unpredictable income, marketing that isn’t converting, or carrying too much of the production load yourself, this episode will give you clarity on the approach I teach.If you’ve been here since the beginning, think of this as a reset.This podcast has always been about building a consistent, profitable, sustainable video production company. Not hype. Not shortcuts. Just doing the work properly.Have a listen.And if it resonates, you can find out more about coaching atryanspanger.com/coaching

Video producers often get stuck in one of two pricing loops.Either you’re trying to find the “going rate”, or you’re trying to charge “what you’re worth”.Both sound reasonable. Neither holds up when you’re in the middle of real projects, real clients, real timelines, and real risk.In this episode, I look at pricing as something you shape around the job in front of you, not a fixed number you’re supposed to discover. We talk about how pricing can help you win work, cut down the back-and-forth, and set you up for better long-term client relationships.In this episode: • Why “going rate” advice is mostly useless without context • Why “charge what you’re worth” can send you into emotional pricing • Why complex jobs often carry more value than simple, packageable ones • Bundling vs itemising, and how to remove unnecessary friction • Commodity-based vs value-based pricing (and what you’re actually being paid for) • Discounting with context, including what a job can lead to beyond the invoice • Why over-quoting early can spook a good prospect • Front end vs back end thinking, and how small jobs can turn into long-term clients • Optional extras that sit on the quote without turning into a sales pitchConnect:⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Email⁠⁠Learn more about video business coaching

This episode came from a listener email that landed at exactly the right moment.Alex is a video producer in New York who’s recently stepped out of full-time work and into running his own business. Things are going well. Work is coming in. He’s starting to bring other people in. And with that comes a new set of questions:What do you actually need in place as the business grows?How do you keep people engaged when they’re not full-time?How do you use your time better when you’re working from home and no one’s setting the structure for you?And how do you think about AI and the future of video without getting distracted, defensive, or overwhelmed?In this episode, I work through those questions. If you’re building a video business, no matter what stage you're at, this will feel familiar.And if you’ve got a question you’d like me to cover in a future episode, send it through.Mentioned on the podcast: https://www.ryanspanger.com/blog/how-to-write-a-video-production-proposalConnect:⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Email⁠⁠Learn more about video business coaching

This is the first new episode for 2026, after a short break and a some reruns. The year’s started, but maybe you haven’t quite yet.Things may still be a bit quiet. Work hasn’t fully kicked back in. And you’re wondering how to use this in-between period without just waiting for momentum to magically appear.In this episode, Ryan talks about what it’s really like to come back after a break when motivation feels patchy and the next step isn’t obvious. He shares why that stuck feeling shows up so often at the start of the year, how to work with it instead of fighting it, and what actually helps you take the first step when you’re not feeling fully ready.If you’re feeling a mix of pressure, hesitation, and cautious optimism about the year ahead, this conversation will meet you where you are and help you get moving again, one deliberate step at a time.Connect:Instagram YoutubeLinkedInEmailLearn more about video business coaching

Every creative business hits a moment where waiting stops working.For Toronto-based video producer Nic Mongillo, that moment came when he decided to stop treating his video business as a side project and start building it properly.In this episode of The Business of Video Production Podcast, I sit down with Nic to unpack how, in just six months, he:• Left his day job• More than doubled his income• Built a full-time video production business with structure and confidenceThis wasn’t luck. It was a series of deliberate decisions.We talk through what changed when Nic committed fully to his business. Not just emotionally, but practically.What we cover in this episode• The gap between being “good enough” and being ready to go full time• Why treating your business seriously changes how clients respond• The role systems play in creating confidence and consistency• How Nic approached marketing as a weekly discipline, not a last-minute scramble• Why he didn’t quit his job until the business was already working• What “going pro” actually looks like in day-to-day decisionsOne of the most powerful parts of Nic’s story is how calm the transition was.He didn’t quit impulsively.He didn’t gamble on one big client.He built a runway, proved consistency, and stepped into full time when the numbers and systems were there.The bigger lessonGoing pro isn’t about better gear or bigger projects.It’s about:• Clear positioning• Proper pricing• Saying no to the wrong work• Showing up consistently, even when it’s uncomfortableSix months in, Nic didn’t just have more income. He had clarity, momentum, and control.If you’re running a video business on the side and wondering whether full time is realistic, this episode will give you a grounded, honest look at what it actually takes.No hype. No shortcuts. Just the work that matters.🎧 Listen now and hear exactly how Nic made the move.

In this powerful episode of The Business of Video Production podcast, I dive into the critical topic of ambition: a driving force often misunderstood and undervalued in creative industries.Ambition isn't just about seeking status or wealth. It's the healthy drive to master your craft, achieve your goals, and push your business further. Yet, many creative business owners struggle with self-doubt, often shaped by childhood messages or societal expectations that equate ambition with greed or arrogance.I share personal stories and insights from my coaching practice to help you explore your own relationship with ambition. You'll learn how to:Identify and overcome limiting beliefs around ambition.Reconnect with the healthy, natural drive that fuels success.Shift your mindset to unlock greater potential in your video production business.If you've ever felt like you're holding yourself back or unsure about aiming higher, this episode will give you the clarity and motivation you need to embrace your ambition fully.Interested in growing your video production business? Visit ryanspanger.com for coaching resources and personalised support.

Today, we’re shaking things up with a live coaching call. I’ll work with a young entrepreneur preparing to launch his video production company. He’s facing some critical decisions about how to get started, and I’ll be guiding him to clarify his vision, set clear goals, and map out the essential steps to build a strong foundation for his business.No matter where you are in your video production journey, whether you’re just starting out or already established, I’m confident you’ll find valuable insights in this conversation. As you listen, consider whether there are areas in your business that could benefit from a clearer strategy or stronger foundations. The lessons we cover today are relevant for businesses at all stages of growth, on this episode of the⁠ Business of Video Production Podcast⁠.

It's the end of the year, and this is a moment that naturally invites reflection: an honest look at who you want to be in the year ahead.In this episode, I share the personal reflection process I go through every year around this time. It’s a way of stepping back from the noise, creating some space, and listening to what’s actually going on beneath the surface.This is about getting clear on what actually matters to you. How you want to work. How you want to live. And who you want to be inside your business.I talk about:Creating a state change to think more clearlyLetting ideas surface without forcing answersReflecting on who you want to be, not just what you want to achieveHow your video business shapes the way you experience lifeCompromise, boundaries, and learning when to hold your standardsChoosing the right relationships and getting the right helpLetting go of things before resentment sets inRebalancing physical energy and paying attention to what’s feeding youThe idea of Memento Mori as a reminder to use your time wellI also share some very personal reflections from my own year, including lessons learned the hard way, and how those experiences are shaping how I approach business, coaching, and life going into the new year.If you run a video production business, your work becomes a kind of mirror. What you tolerate. What you chase. What you compromise on. What you protect. All of it says something about who you are, and how you’re choosing to live.This episode is an opportunity to pause and get clear on what you want from the year ahead. Not just in your business, but in your life more broadly.And if, as you listen, you realise you don’t want to figure all of this out on your own, that’s where coaching can help. I work closely with a small number of video production business owners to help them think clearly, make better decisions, and build a business that genuinely supports the life they want to live.You can find out more about how I work at ryanspanger.com/coaching.

January can feel like a dead zone. The inbox slows down, clients disappear, and it’s tempting to cruise.But January is also your best window all year to work on the business, not just in it.This is an archive episode I’m re-sharing because the idea is simple and it works: treat January like the off-season. Rest properly, recover from the year, then use that quieter space to lock in a few foundational moves that make the rest of the year easier.In this episode, I walk through how I approach January in my own production company, and what I get coaching clients to focus on so they can hit February with momentum instead of starting from scratch.You’ll learn:How to use the “off-season” concept without switching off completelyWhy “locking in the gain” matters more than obsessing over the gapThe marketing proof elements to tighten up in January so selling feels simplerWhat to update on your website without doing a full rebuildHow to think about showreels (and why niche or industry reels can be a big advantage)Why your proposal template is worth fixing when things are quietHow to stack proof with testimonials and Google reviewsHow to choose one main outreach channel and set it up properly for FebruaryIf you’re heading into January with less client work on the books than you’d like, or you just want to start the year feeling sharper and more confident, this one will help.If you want support, you can work with me.Learn more at ryanspanger.com.

Before the year wraps up, I wanted to leave you with one final conversation.This is the last episode of The Business of Video Production podcast for 2026. There’s no teaching in this one. No strategies. Just a moment to pause and take stock before the break.In this episode, I reflect on:What this year has actually felt like behind the scenesWhy this end-of-year holiday looks very different to last yearThe idea of seasons in business, and why timing matters more than rulesWhen it makes sense to keep working through December and JanuaryWhen switching off is not avoidance, but the right callIf you’ve had a big year and you’re feeling tired, this episode gives you permission to stop for a moment.If you’re planning to keep working while others slow down, it may help you feel clearer about that decision.And if you’re not quite sure where you sit, it’s a chance to think about what your business needs from you right now.I also wanted to say thank you. To everyone who’s listened this year, reached out, or shared how the podcast has helped you in practical ways. Knowing this has meant a lot to me.I’ll be back in 2026.

In this episode, I walk through the full structure of the 90-day program I’ve built for videographers who want to move into being business owners. Think of this episode as a mirror. A way to see which parts of your business are actually supporting you, and which parts you’ve been avoiding, postponing, or hoping will sort themselves out.You can use this as a thinking tool.Or as a line in the sand for the start of 2026.Or as a way to decide whether you want help doing this properly, instead of alone.If you’re a video production business owner who’s tired of inconsistent income, unclear positioning, and feeling stuck in the daily grind, this is your chance to make a real change.If you want to see how this work looks with support, you can find the full program outline at:ryanspanger.com/transformationIf not, listen anyway. It should still make you think.Thanks for listening.

If you run a video production business, chances are you’re thinking about next year already.Better clients. Better projects. Better pricing.Maybe a new service. Maybe more consistent work. Maybe fewer compromises.Most people respond to that by hunting for strategies. New offers. New funnels. New tactics.In this episode, I want to talk about something that sits underneath all of that.Because in my experience, the biggest changes in a video business rarely come from a clever strategy. They come from one decision most people never consciously make.The decision about what is now acceptable.I share an insight from a recent coaching conversation where a client realised that his biggest progress this year did not come from learning something new. It came from raising the standards he holds himself to. How he shows up. How he delivers. How he markets. How he follows through.This episode is especially for you if: • You feel capable of more than your business is currently producing • You know you sometimes tolerate things you shouldn’t, with clients or with yourself • You’re tired of tweaking tactics without seeing the change you want • You want 2026 to feel different, not just busierThis is not a tactical episode.There are no hacks.No step-by-step plan.It’s a reframing that could change how you operate your business next year.It can influence how you make decisions next year.If you’re at a point where you know something needs to change, and you don’t want to figure it out alone, you can explore my coaching offer at ryanspanger.com/coaching and see if it makes sense for you.

As we get close to the end of the year, there’s a moment every videographer reaches.You look back at the last twelve months and either feel proud of the direction things are heading… or you feel that familiar tug that says you expected more from your business than what actually happened.If that second feeling rings true, this episode will speak to you.Because today we’re talking about the point where things finally start to change. The moment when you stop operating like a one-person band and begin building something real.And I’ll walk you through the model that has helped other filmmakers move out of the cycle of random leads, low budgets, and constant pressure… and into a business where people actually notice you, respect your expertise, and want to work with you.Plus, I’ll share something special I’m running in January for those who are ready to make next year look very different to this one.Take the next step

As the year winds down, it’s normal to feel tired and think about easing off. This Short Cuts episode is a reminder that the final couple of weeks can make a real difference.I share why this period often creates unexpected opportunities, how one of my clients landed a significant project right at the end of the year, and what to focus on so you head into January in the right way.If you’ve been tempted to coast into the holidays, this will help you stay steady, finish well, and then enjoy a proper break.ryanspanger.com

There was a time when I loved being a one-person band. Shooting, editing, doing everything myself. It felt simple. It felt pure. Until it didn’t. The late nights in the edit suite, the low budgets, the scramble for the next job… and that creeping feeling that the whole thing was resting on me.If you’re a videographer who knows you’re capable of more than just getting through the next project, this episode is for you. I walk through the messy middle between “gun for hire” and genuine business owner, talk honestly about the traps that keep talented filmmakers stuck, and share the turning points that helped me grow beyond a one-person operation.We also start unpacking a simple structure you can use to move from invisible and underpaid to being seen as the go-to video business in your market. If you’ve ever wondered what it would take to build something bigger than you, hit play on this one.Get my help

There’s a lot of big talk about AI right now. Some people pretending it’s no threat at all. Others convinced it’s going to wipe out every job in the industry. I’m not in either camp.In this episode I talk through something that happened on a recent shoot that really brought the whole question into focus. Not in a theoretical way. In a very real, very practical way.And from there, we get into the part nobody seems to be talking about. The part that actually decides whether your business survives the changes ahead.If you’re running a video business, or you want to move beyond being the person who does all the labour, this is worth a listen.

Most video producers love the creative work… but tense up the moment money enters the conversation. Invoices. Payment terms. Chasing. Awkward follow-ups.It’s the side of the business no one talks about, even though it affects everything.In this episode, we get into the real-world process of getting paid: how to set the tone early, how to avoid late payments, and how to deal with the uncomfortable moments without damaging relationships or losing your cool.We also look at why late payments happen more than ever, when to be flexible, when to stand firm, and how to build the kind of buffer that gives you confidence instead of anxiety.If you’ve ever delivered great work and then waited… and waited… this one will land.Coaching info: ryanspanger.com/coaching

A lot of filmmakers wrestle with the idea of being commercial. They want the business to grow, but something inside them still clings to the image of the artist who shouldn’t have to ask for attention.This Short Cut digs into that tension. The part of you that wants to look like a “real filmmaker.” The part that tells you the work should be enough. And the part that quietly holds you back every time you avoid doing the things that actually bring clients in.There’s a simple idea in this episode that can loosen that grip and make the commercial side feel a lot more honest. A lot more doable.

You’re about to hear the final part of a short series I’ve been doing on what’s actually working in my business right now. Last month was the best month I’ve ever had. I’ve been looking hard at why. What changed. What I finally stopped doing, and what I doubled down on.In the first two episodes I talked about long-term clients and building a predictable flow of leads. Today goes somewhere different. A bit more personal. A bit uncomfortable to say out loud. But probably the most useful thing I can offer you if you’re trying to build a real video business.If sometimes feel like you’re only using half of what you’ve got, or you’re holding back without meaning to, this one will hit close to home.If you want a clearer sense of what it really takes to grow a video business, keep listening.All of that in this episode of The Business of Video Production Podcast.If this episode hits home, and you want support while you build the business you’re capable of, you can find everything at ryanspanger.com/coaching.

Making the transition from videographer to business owner is one of the biggest challenges in our industry.Most videographers don’t actually run businesses. They run an endless list of interruptions. Messages, calls, favours, content requests, random problems, gear distractions, last-minute edits, and everyone wanting access to them all the time. It keeps them busy, but it doesn’t move anything forward.In today’s Short Cuts episode, I’m sharing something a mentor once said to me years ago. A simple idea that completely changed how I work. And it goes right to the heart of why so many videographers stay stuck as operators and never make the jump to being business owners.If you’ve been feeling too available, too reactive, or too close to other people’s noise, this episode will land for you.⁠https://www.ryanspanger.com/

This is part two in a short series on what’s working in my video business right now. Last month was our best month in over twenty years, and I’ve been breaking down the actual reasons behind it so you can apply the same ideas to your own business.In the last episode, we looked at the importance of long term client relationships and the role that repeat business plays in stability and momentum.In this episode, we shift to the other side of the equation: new leads. Not luck. Not waiting. A reliable and consistent lead source that you can depend on.We cover:Why referrals are not a strategyThe feeling of business “uncertainty” when you rely on chanceThe mindset shift that comes with building a dependable lead flowHow to choose one lead channel that suits your personality and strengthsWhy focus matters more than experimenting across every platformIf you can build one strong, repeatable source of leads, your entire business feels different. Calmer. More predictable. More in your control.Looking to build your own dependable source of leads for your business?

In this Short Cuts episode, I share a simple way to get clarity when you’re feeling pulled in different directions in your business.It’s a way to understand what actually matters today. And what can wait.This might sound unusual at first, but it’s something I’ve used for years. It has helped me make better decisions, stay focused, and keep my business moving forward, even during busy or uncertain periods.In the episode, I walk you through how it works and how you can use it yourself.Take a listen. Then try it for a day or a week. You might be surprised by what you learn.https://www.ryanspanger.com/

Last month was our best month ever in my video business. More projects, more revenue, more momentum than in twenty years of running Dream Engine.When someone in my mastermind asked why it happened, I realised I didn’t have a clear answer. It wasn’t luck or timing. There were deeper reasons.In this episode, I break down what really worked, starting with the single biggest factor behind our best month yet.It’s part one of a short series on what’s working right now in my video production business, and how you can use the same principles to create steady, repeatable success in yours.For more on building a steady, profitable video business, visit ryanspanger.com.

This is one of those questions that sparks endless debate in video production circles.Should you give clients their raw footage?In this Short Cuts episode, I share how my thinking has changed over the years. From the early days of feeling protective about footage to running a more open, client-centred business that builds trust and long-term partnerships.You’ll hear a story about a car company job that taught me a valuable lesson, and how a simple mindset shift can change the way you handle these requests.If you’ve ever hesitated to hand over files or wondered how to set clear boundaries without damaging relationships, this one’s worth a listen.

Most video producers know they should be posting more on LinkedIn. They’ve got great work, smart ideas, and interesting stories from the field, but for some reason, they hold back. Maybe it feels awkward. Maybe they don’t know what to say. Or maybe they’ve posted before and nothing happened.In this episode of The Business of Video Production Podcast, Ryan Spanger breaks down how to build a content strategy for LinkedIn that feels natural, human, and effective.He shares five simple types of posts that video producers can rotate through, and explains how to make each one engaging and real. You’ll learn how to stay top-of-mind with clients, build authority, and show up consistently without overthinking it.Ryan also talks about how to think about LinkedIn as part of your business infrastructure, why your personal page matters more than your company page, and how the rise of AI has made authentic human voice more valuable than ever.If you’ve been overthinking what to post, or worrying about sounding “salesy” or fake, this episode will help you find your rhythm.You’ll learn how to:Post with confidence, without over-polishingBuild awareness instead of chasing likesUse the “five content buckets” to create varietyStay consistent so clients remember you when it mattersTo see examples of Ryan’s behind-the-scenes content or learn more about his coaching for video production business owners, visit ryanspanger.com/coaching. Or connect on LinkedIn.

Sony added a feature called the “Big 6” to their cinema cameras. Six key settings you use all the time, all on one screen.It got me thinking about what my own version of that would look like in business.In this episode, I walk through the six daily non-negotiables that keep Dream Engine running smoothly.The small habits that, done consistently, make the biggest difference.We talk about process versus outcome, how to stay in control of what really matters, and why results always follow when you focus on the right things.Listen now and start designing your own Big 6. The daily habits that will keep your video business healthy and moving forward.

In this episode of The Business of Video Production Podcast, Ryan shares how he learned to sell video production services in a natural, authentic way that actually feels good.He explains how selling isn’t about persuasion or pressure. It’s about listening and responding. Through stories, examples, and real coaching experiences, you’ll learn how to:Lead client conversations with confidence and empathyUse curiosity to uncover opportunities hiding in plain sightReframe sales calls as diagnostic conversations: “diagnose and prescribe”Build trust and influence by listening reflectivelyCreate a framework for authentic, repeatable sales conversationsRyan also shares insights from two decades of experience running⁠ Dream Engine⁠ and coaching other video business owners on how to sell without feeling salesy.By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to make sales conversations calm, confident, and effective without ever needing to fake it.Listen now to learn how to sell video production by understanding your clients better than anyone else.Learn more about Ryan’s coaching for video business owners at ⁠ryanspanger.com/coaching⁠.

On this week's Shortcuts episode, I want to talk about something that comes up all the time when I’m coaching video business owners: the sales rollercoaster.You know how it goes. You’re busy with production, buried in edits, and weeks go by without doing any sales. Then things go quiet, and suddenly you’re scrambling again.In this episode, I’ll share a simple way to get off that rollercoaster. It’s not about motivation or big plans. It’s about rhythm. One small, repeatable habit that builds momentum over time.If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent with sales, this one’s for you.Ambitious to scale your video production business? Click hereConnect with Ryan on LinkedIn

Should you sell your video services as packages, or create customised proposals for every client?In this episode, Ryan Spanger breaks down the pros and cons of both approaches. You’ll learn when packages make sense, when they can actually hold you back, and how customised proposals can help you position yourself as a trusted expert rather than just another vendor.Ryan also shares how he uses both models in his own production company, and how to find the balance between simplicity and strategy.If you’ve ever wondered how to make your sales process more effective, easier for clients, and better aligned with the kind of business you want to build, this episode will give you plenty to think about.Learn more about Ryan’s coaching for video business owners at ryanspanger.com/coaching

A clip from Chris Do sparked a discussion inside my mastermind group.His advice: “Never justify. Never ever.”It’s bold, but is it the right move?In this episode, I dig into where this idea helps and where it can hurt.Especially if clients keep asking you to explain your pricing.https://www.ryanspanger.com/video-business-mastermind

A listener asked me a question that many video production business owners have quietly wondered about.Is it really possible to build a $500K-a-year business?In this episode, I share my honest take on what it takes to reach that level, what holds people back, and what actually matters more than turnover.We’ll look at why profit is the real measure of success, what happens when you rely too much on word of mouth, and why building a predictable lead system is essential if you want to grow.I’ll also share what I’ve seen with clients who were already turning over strong numbers but still felt stuck, and what helped them finally break through.If you’ve ever wondered how far you can take your business and what it would take to get there, this episode is for you.Find out more at ryanspanger.com.

We’re in the final stretch of the year. The championship quarter.In sport, this is when the game is won or lost. In business, it’s the window that decides how you finish, and how you start next year.In this episode, I’ll share why Q4 is your chance to finish stronger than you started, avoid the wrong kind of regret, and set yourself up to win in 2026.The year’s almost over. The window is open now. Use it. And if you’d like to do this with guidance and support, join me.

A lot of video production business owners tell me they’re working harder than ever, yet not always moving forward the way they want.Over the years, I’ve noticed a set of patterns that often seem to hold people back. I’ve seen them in my own work, in colleagues, and in the clients I coach.In this episode of The Business of Video Production Podcast, I’ll share what these patterns are, what they look like, and why they matter. See if they sound familiar, and more importantly, think about what might change for you if you could get on top of them.And if you’re serious about taking your video business further, check out my coaching at ryanspanger.com. It’s where we go deeper into these ideas and put them into action.

Some clients look like trouble. The kind you want to avoid.But what if the messiest situations are actually the most valuable?In this episode, I explore what it really means to be The Wolf. Cool under pressure. Useful when it counts. The person people turn to when everything is on the line.RyanSpanger.com

Hiring help is one thing. Learning how to lead them is another.In this episode, I share what it really takes to lead a team in a video production business. From creating a clear vision, to setting people up with simple systems, to giving feedback in a way that builds trust instead of resentment.You’ll hear about the mistakes I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the practical steps you can take to get the best out of your team. Whether that’s freelancers, contractors, or staff.If you’re ready to take the next step in your video business, I can help you put the right systems in place, hire the right people, and grow into the role of a leader. Find all the details at www.ryanspanger.com.

Life has a way of showing you when it’s time to change. At first it whispers. Ignore it for long enough and the message gets louder.In this episode, I share a story from my own video business about what happens when you hold on to something that’s lost its shine, and the surprising strength that can come from letting go.So what is your business trying to tell you right now?