Creator News Live: Discussing the latest tools, tips, and tactics with industry experts, innovators, creators, and storytelle

AI makes it easier than ever to build your own software, but does that mean you should start canceling subscriptions?

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Joe Casabona, host of the Streamlined Solopreneur podcast, has been experimenting with replacing paid tools using AI. But even with his software engineering background, there are some tools he wouldn't dream of replacing.

Joe joins Zac and me to share his four-question framework for deciding what to build, what to buy, and when to leave things alone. We talk about fixing broken workflows before creating new tools, realistic first projects for beginners, and the hidden costs of maintaining your own software. Joe also explains why AI should handle tasks without replacing the creative thinking that makes your work valuable.

Key Points

• Before building your own tool, consider four things: your skills, expertise, available tools, and how dependent your business is on the software.
• Fix your workflow before replacing your software. A new tool won't necessarily solve a broken process.
• Consider the hidden costs of building and maintaining your own tools, including troubleshooting, security, and the time spent switching.
• Start small with AI-built tools, focusing on simple, single-purpose projects that solve a specific problem.
• Know when to keep paying for software. Some tools provide expertise and reliability that aren't worth trying to recreate.
• Use AI for tasks, not craft. Automate repetitive work without handing over your creativity, judgment, or understanding of your audience.

Resources

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Connect with Joe!

• Joe's Website: https://casabona.org
• Streamlined Solopreneur: https://streamlinedsolopreneur.com
• Tools Builder Cohort Waitlist: https://streamlined.fm/waitlist
• Conscientious AI Use: https://lovehate.ai
• Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcasabona/
• Joe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joecasabona/

Connect with Zac!

• Zac Brown Creative Solutions: https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com/
• Zac on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thezacbrownshow/
• Zac's New Radio Drama: https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheZacBrownShow (Coming Soon)
• Zac's Book: https://tr.ee/Ligq6Q587M

Tools Mentioned

• Claude and Claude Code: https://claude.ai
• Lovable: https://lovable.dev
• Todoist: https://todoist.com
• Focus To-Do: https://www.focustodo.cn/
• Kit: https://kit.com
• Ecamm Live: https://geni.us/BJIbG9
• Obsidian: https://obsidian.md
• Notion: https://notion.so
• Stream Deck: https://www.elgato.com/
• WordPress: https://wordpress.org

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

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https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What if growing your podcast has less to do with getting more views and more to do with meeting the people who already live down the street?

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Stephen "DJ Strick" Strickland spent 13 years in radio learning the value of showing up for his community. Now he's using those lessons to help podcasters and creators build meaningful connections beyond the screen.

Strick joins us this week to share why small audiences deserve more attention, how he built the Birmingham Podcasters Collective, and what it takes to organize your first local event. We also discuss turning online followers into real-world relationships, growing a community from scratch, and why you shouldn't underestimate your influence right where you live.

Key Points

• Ten people showing up in person can be more valuable than thousands of passive online views.
• Start building your audience locally instead of comparing your beginning to someone else's established success.
• Small towns have opportunities, too. Start with five or ten people at a library or another local gathering place.
• Encourage attendees to bring a friend to help your community grow organically.
• Use a Facebook group to connect local creators, promote events, and keep conversations going afterward.
• Event registrations don't always translate into attendance. A strong local connection can make a big difference in who actually shows up.
• Understand your event costs, break-even point, and financial risks before committing to a venue.
• Focus on making people feel seen and heard rather than treating every interaction as a potential sale.
• Lean into your strengths, and don't be afraid to bring someone else in to help with hosting or speaking.

Resources

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Connect with DJ Strick

DJ Strick's Links: https://strick.bio.link

Shows and Resources Mentioned

Ecamm's Creator Camp 2026 Recap on the Stream Show

Superfanshttps://a.co/d/05Y1Bdcrby Pat Flynn

David Shands Podcast Summit

Connect with Zac Brown

https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com

Keep an eye out for Zac's original audio fiction series, The Midnight Transmissions

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

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https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

Ever finish a ridiculously busy week and still feel like you got nothing done?

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Marielou Mandl knows that feeling. As a full-time creator, host, and producer, she's built a successful business creating content for clients, but found herself struggling to make time for her own projects. Now she's changing that by treating herself like one of her clients and documenting the process in her YouTube series, Behind the Build.

Marielou joins Jeff and co-host Zac Brown to share how she's protecting her creative time, choosing which client work deserves a spot on her calendar, and using Claude Code to manage projects and bring long-awaited ideas to life.

Key Points

• Being busy isn't the same as being unproductive. Sometimes you're getting plenty done, just not for yourself.
• Treat yourself like a client by blocking dedicated time for your own projects, complete with deadlines and deliverables.
• Make finishing the priority. Marielou's one-day production approach focuses on getting the video published rather than making everything perfect.
• Be intentional about which client work you accept. Consider how each project affects your time, energy, and ability to pursue your own goals.
• Long-term retainer clients can provide financial stability while giving you room to develop your next creative project.
• Pay attention to the creative ideas that won't leave you alone. Those side projects might lead to your next business opportunity.
• Use AI to recognize patterns in your ideas, organize information, and identify what deserves your attention.
• Build repeatable workflows with tools like Claude Code to make producing your own content easier.
• Let AI handle more of the organizational and production work so you have more time for the creative work you actually enjoy.

Resources

More from Marielou Mandl:

Marielou's Website: https://marieloumandl.com

Behind the Build on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@marieloumandl

Video Creator Club: https://videocreator.club

AI Tools and Resources Mentioned

• Claude and Claude Code: https://claude.ai
• Google Gemini: https://gemini.google.com
• Notion: https://notion.so
• Apple Notes: https://www.apple.com/ios/notes/
• Magai: https://magai.co

Connect with Zac Brown:

Zac Brown Creative Solutions: https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com/

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What happens when a potential client searches your name?

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Kirk R. Nugent knows firsthand how complicated that answer can get. As the Geek Speaker Preacher, online video coach, and creator of the A-List Digital Footprint program, Kirk has spent years intentionally shaping his online presence, including separating himself from another public figure who shares his name.

Kirk joins us to explain how creators and business owners can take more control over what people find online. We talk about auditing your digital footprint, Kirk’s four-part framework for closing your visibility gap, dealing with outdated accounts and inaccurate AI results, and building the trust signals that help prove you are who you say you are.

Key Points

• Every online footprint is either intentional or abandoned, so regularly search your name and see what others actually find.
• Audit your digital presence from a stranger’s perspective, not from what you already know about yourself.
• Kirk’s four-step process helps identify and close the gaps between who you are and how you appear online.
• When old profiles or outdated content surface, decide whether to update them, delete them, or create stronger current content that outranks them.
• Consistency across your website, social profiles, photos, bios, and other platforms helps search engines and AI tools connect the dots.
• If you share a name with someone else, give search engines more context by consistently connecting your name with your expertise, business, and other identifying information.
• Fake accounts and impersonators are more than an annoyance. Report them quickly and make it easy for people to identify your legitimate accounts.
• In what Kirk describes as a “trust recession,” creators and business owners need clear signals that show potential clients they are dealing with a real person.
• Your digital footprint isn’t something you fix once. Regularly checking search results and AI answers can help you catch problems before a potential client does.

Resources

Kirk R. Nugent:

https://kirkrnugent.com/

Kirk on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@kirkrnugent

How It All Werks Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-it-all-werks/id1824932344

A-List Digital Footprint Program:

https://kirkrnugent.com/alist/

Co-Host: Zac Brown

Zac Brown Creative Solutions: https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com/

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

Most people think LinkedIn success starts with posting more. Lowell Brown argues that it starts one step earlier.

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If someone discovers your content and clicks your name, an outdated or unclear profile could cost you the connection before they ever learn what you do.

Lowell shares a practical approach to turning your LinkedIn profile into something that helps people understand who you serve and why they should work with you. We break down what belongs in your photo, headline, banner, About, and Featured sections, plus how to approach content, video, carousels, and LinkedIn newsletters without adding another full-time job to your schedule.

Key Points

• Fix your LinkedIn profile before worrying about posting more content.
• Write your headline around who you help and the result you get them, rather than simply listing your job title.
• Use your banner, About section, and Featured section to quickly show people what you do and give them a next step.
• Make sure your profile photo is current, recognizable, and actually looks like you.
• Being active doesn't mean posting every day. Thoughtful comments and conversations can help new people discover you too.
• Test different content formats, including video, photos, carousels, and newsletters, instead of assuming one format will always perform best.
• Repurpose one strong idea into several LinkedIn formats, but adjust the presentation for the audience instead of simply cross-posting everything.
• LinkedIn newsletters can introduce your content to people outside your existing network, then point those readers toward your website, email list, podcast, or other channels you own.
• Give LinkedIn posts time to work. Lowell is seeing content continue to gain impressions and engagement days or even weeks after publishing.

Resources

Lowell Brown:

https://www.lowellbrown.com/

Going Social:

https://goingsocial.ca/

Free 5-Day LinkedIn Profile Challenge:

https://www.lowellbrown.com/challenge

Lowell Brown on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lowellbrown/

Co-Host: Zac Brown

https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com/

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

We tend to see the finished product and call it creativity. We don't see the discarded ideas, wrong turns, failures, and work it took to get there.

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Lou Mongello has spent more than 20 years talking with the Imagineers, artists, composers, and leaders behind Disney, and those conversations reveal a very different picture of where great ideas actually come from.

Lou shares lessons from his new book, The Disney Interviews: Disney Legends Edition, including how to get past the blank page, use curiosity to create something different, and know when your work is ready to ship. We also talk about becoming a better interviewer, finding the story behind your work, and why the right room can change your business.

Key Points

• Believing in an idea is only the beginning. The work closes the distance between the idea and making it real.
• You don't need enough clarity to finish. You only need enough clarity to start.
• Let your first version teach you what the next version needs to become.
• Look outside your niche for ideas and influences instead of consuming the same things as everyone else.
• “Done is better than perfect” doesn't mean the details don't matter. Ship work that represents the best you can do right now.
• Your podcast, book, course, or newsletter isn't the whole story. It's one part of the larger transformation you're trying to create for someone.
• Great interviewing requires preparation, listening, and being comfortable enough with silence to let unexpected stories surface.
• Across Lou's conversations with Disney Legends, a common pattern emerged: they often credited mentors and teams before taking credit themselves.
• When choosing an event or conference, ask what problem you want the room to help you solve and whether the people, access, and format can actually help you solve it.

Resources

Lou Mongello:

Lou Mongello: https://www.loumongello.com/

WDW Radio: https://www.wdwradio.com/

The Disney Interviews: Disney Legends Edition: Lou's new collection of 18 conversations with Disney Legends, along with new introductions, stories, and context from his experiences meeting and interviewing them.

Momentum 2026: https://www.loumongello.com/momentum/

October 15–18, 2026

World Builders: Disney+ documentary featuring the people behind Disney's creative worlds

Ecamm Creator Camp: https://ecamm.com/camp

Co-Host:

Paul Gowder: https://www.paulgowder.com/

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

https://socialmedianewslive.com/ - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What happens when the product you want doesn't exist, or the version that does exist isn't good enough?

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Doc Rock, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Ecamm and creator of Doc Popps, decided to stop waiting for someone else to solve the problem. He found a manufacturer, spent a year refining the product, and pre-sold it directly to his own audience.

Doc shares what creators should know before turning an idea into a physical product, from testing demand and negotiating minimum orders to pricing, prototypes, shipping, and unexpected manufacturing costs. We also explore why creators should build more things they own, what he learned rebuilding The Flow in public, and why publishing content is only the beginning of getting it seen.

Key Points

• Start by solving a problem you already understand or something that continually frustrates your audience.
• Ask your audience what they want before investing heavily in a product idea.
• Pre-selling can validate demand before you commit to a full production run.
• Manufacturer minimum order quantities may be more negotiable than they initially appear.
• Expect manufacturing problems, delays, shipping costs, tariffs, and other expenses you didn't anticipate.
• Don't rush prototypes. Doc spent a year refining materials, colors, molds, and acoustics before he was satisfied.
• Think beyond courses and sponsorships. Physical products can give creators something tangible that they actually own.
• Building in public gives your community a chance to participate in what you're creating.
• Don't “post and ghost.” Promote your work, build relationships with your audience, and give people more to discover when they find you.

Resources

Doc Rock:

Doc Rock Merch: https://docmerch.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/docrock

The Flow: https://www.youtube.com/@EcammLive

Paul Gowder:

Paul Gowder: https://www.paulgowder.com/

Facebook Challenge: https://www.paulgowder.com/facebookchallenge

Tools & Resources Mentioned:

Fourthwall: https://fourthwall.com/

Amazon KDP: https://kdp.amazon.com/

Canva: https://www.canva.com/

Power EQ: https://docrock.live/power

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It's almost time for Ecamm's Creator Camp: https://ecamm.com/camp

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

https://socialmedianewslive.com/ - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What happens when the marketing strategies that worked for years suddenly stop delivering?

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Angie Callen, founder of The Modern Coach, believes we're in a messy transition where AI is creating more content and more noise, while people are increasingly looking for something unmistakably human.

Angie shares what stopped working in her own business and why referrals, trusted newsletters, personal outreach, and imperfect content are getting her attention now. We also talk about using AI without creating more work for yourself, knowing when to bring a human back into the process, adapting your offers to how people are buying today, and leading teams through AI adoption without sacrificing trust.

Key Points

• Use AI to enable proven human processes, not create more work simply because you can.
• Don't outsource the parts of your brand that make you human, especially your voice, relationships, and personal interactions.
• Imperfect, obviously human content can create stronger connections than polished, AI-generated content.
• Don't abandon the marketing channels that worked before. Diversify your lead sources and adapt as the landscape changes.
• Referrals remain powerful because referred prospects arrive with trust already established.
• Email still works when you've built an audience that trusts and wants your content.
• Meet uncertain buyers with smaller entry points and more flexible, modular offers instead of requiring a big commitment upfront.
• Set aside time for individual outreach to customers, prospects, friends, and people in your network.
• Introduce AI to a team intentionally, with transparency and input from the humans who will be working alongside it.

Resources

Connect with Angie Callen:

The Modern Coach: https://themoderncoach.co/

Scary Good by Angie Callen

No More Mondayshttps://careerbenders.com/nomoremondays/Podcast

Connect with Kira Pogge:

Kira Pogge: https://www.kirapogge.com/

Instagram: @kirapoggecreations

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What does it actually mean to “be authentic” when being authentic has become its own kind of performance?

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Michael King Jr., founder of Teams.Coach, believes your strongest advantage comes from figuring out what is uniquely yours, then building your brand and business around that instead of following someone else’s blueprint.

Michael shares why your convictions, values, empathy, and relationships still matter in an AI-driven world, and how creators can find the unusual combination of skills that makes them stand out. We also talk about making space for creativity, turning creative gifts into a business, building your own platform, and why your customer should often be the hero of the story you’re telling.

Key Points

• Copying someone else’s blueprint can lead to burnout because the strategy was never built for you.
• AI can copy your voice or likeness, but it can’t copy your convictions, values, empathy, or the trust you’ve built.
• Creativity needs margin, so intentionally protect space in your calendar to think and create.
• Find your “category of one” by identifying the unusual combination of skills and perspectives you bring to your work.
• Don’t judge the value of creativity solely by whether you can monetize it.
• Test signature ideas before making a big investment, then build on what genuinely connects with people.
• Build your own stage and become known for the thing you care about instead of depending entirely on social platforms.
• When telling your brand story, make your customer the focus and use your own story to demonstrate transformation.

Resources

Connect with Michael King Jr.:

Michael King Jr.: https://michaelkingjr.com/

Teams.Coach: https://teams.coach/

Connect with Zac Brown:

Zac Brown Creative: https://zacbrowncreative.com/

Zac’s Book: An Accidental Education: What I've Learned So Far

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What if the opportunity everyone else is laughing at is exactly the one you should be paying attention to?

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Billy Thorpe built his business by taking the small video deals other creators dismissed, then figuring out how to make the math work through speed, consistency, and a repeatable system.

Billy shares why creators should question the unwritten rules in their industry, focus on profit instead of impressive revenue numbers, and build direct relationships with customers instead of depending entirely on a platform. We also get into repeat business, finding new revenue inside work you’re already doing, knowing when “enough” really is enough, and why staying adaptable matters when your business inevitably changes.

Key Points

• Don’t automatically dismiss an opportunity because other people think it’s too small, cheap, or weird.
• Test industry “rules” for yourself instead of assuming someone else’s numbers apply to your business.
• Look at profit and efficiency, not just the price of an individual deal or your total revenue.
• Build systems that let you do the same work faster without sacrificing what the customer actually needs.
• Own your customer relationships so losing a platform doesn’t mean losing your entire business.
• Look for additional ways to monetize work you’ve already created, including usage rights, formats, and other platforms.
• Repeat customers can be more valuable than constantly finding and selling new ones.
• Decide what “enough” looks like for you instead of letting someone else’s income or workload define success.
• AI can help you get more value from your own knowledge and experience, but trust and real human experience are essential to product content.

Resources

Billy Thorpe: Website | YouTube | Billy's Facebook Group

Zac Brown: Website | Podcast| Book

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Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What actually turns “I should write a book someday” into a finished book you can hold in your hands?

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Lisa DiNoto Glassner, founder of The Castle Run and author of The runDisney Companion, shares how she took years of experience in a very specific niche and turned it into her first self-published book, without waiting for an agent, publisher, or anyone else’s permission.

Lisa breaks down how a simple outline made the project manageable, why your experience may be more valuable than traditional credentials, and how she kept control of the entire publishing process. She also explains how she funded the project through trusted brand partnerships, protected her readers’ trust, and built a larger business ecosystem around the book.

Key Points:

• Your experience and repeated reps can be the credentials you need to write the book.
• Turn the idea into something tangible by creating an outline and breaking the book into manageable sections.
• Control scope by remembering who the book is for and accepting that you don’t have to say everything in one book.
• Self-publishing can give you ownership of the entire process, from your ISBN and editing to distribution and sales.
• Consider flat-fee partnerships with brands you already trust instead of relying solely on affiliate commissions.
• Protect reader trust by recommending partners organically and being clear about your financial relationships.
• When writing about a brand you don’t own, be thoughtful about trademarks, intellectual property, disclaimers, and how you reference that brand.
• Build beyond the book with companion resources, email capture, podcasts, and other ways to bring readers into your own audience.
• You don’t need to know every part of publishing before you start. You need confidence that you can learn what you don’t know.

Resources:

The runDisney Companion is officially out today!

Grab Lisa’s new book and learn everything you need to know to plan, prepare for, and experience a runDisney race weekend:

https://thecastlerun.com/book/

More from Lisa DiNoto Glassner:

The Castle Run: https://thecastlerun.com/

Companion Resources and Reader Bonuses: https://thecastlerun.com/companion

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecastlerunner

Publishing Resources Mentioned:

Lulu: https://www.lulu.com/

BookFunnel: https://bookfunnel.com/

Bowker: https://www.bowker.com/

Connect with Zac Brown:

Zac Brown Creative Solutions: https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com/ and The Zac Brown Show Podcast

----------------------

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CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

Building an audience is one thing. Building a community that keeps showing up year after year is something else entirely.

Mike Potter has spent two decades growing the For Mac Eyes Only podcast and the last ten years turning those listeners into the thriving community behind MacStock Conference & Expo. In this conversation, he shares the lessons he's learned from creating an event people genuinely want to return to.

Mike explains why the best communities are built around shared experiences instead of endless content, how unplanned hallway conversations often become the most valuable part of an event, and why authenticity matters more than chasing someone else's engagement strategy. Whether you're dreaming about hosting your first meetup or creating a stronger connection with your audience online, you'll come away with practical ideas for building something that lasts.

Key Points:

• Start small. Meetups and mastermind groups can grow into thriving communities over time.
• Design events around connection, not just presentations. The "hallway track" often creates the biggest impact.
• Give people space between sessions so conversations can happen naturally.
• Traditions and recurring rituals help transform attendees into returning community members.
• Partnerships create stronger long-term relationships than traditional sponsorships.
• Perfection isn't the goal. Great communities remember the experience, not the small things that went wrong.
• Invite passionate people to share what they care about most instead of assigning topics.
• Stay true to your own communication style instead of copying someone else's community strategy.

Resources:

MacStock Conference & Expo: Website | Youtube | Mastodon

For Mac Eyes Only: Website | YouTube | Mastodon

Zac Brown: Website | Podcast

----------------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What if the real question isn't whether to use AI, but where to use it?

------------

Mike Schmitz believes the best creators aren't choosing between AI and human creativity. They're learning where AI adds value, where it gets in the way, and how their own taste remains the one thing no tool can replicate.

Mike shares his "AI is a dial, not a switch" philosophy, introduces his Creativity Flywheel for turning ideas into original work, and explains how a personal knowledge management system can help creators build better content over time. We also explore Obsidian, second brains, AI-assisted writing, and why consistently creating, not just collecting ideas, is what develops your unique voice.

Key Points:

• AI is a dial, not a switch. The key is knowing which parts of your creative process to hand off and which to protect.
• Your taste, judgment, and voice are what make your work stand out in a world of AI-generated content.
• The Creativity Flywheel: Capture, Curate, Connect, Cultivate, and Create.
• A second brain should help you generate ideas, not become another place to store information you'll never use.
• AI works best when it's given your own notes, ideas, and context instead of a blank page.
• Publish consistently. Creating regularly is how you develop your taste and sharpen your creative instincts.
• Remove friction when capturing ideas, but add intentional friction when deciding which ideas deserve your attention.

Resources:

Mike Schmitz: Website | YouTube | Focused Podcast | Bookworm Podcast

• Check out his LifeHQ, a Life Operating System inside Obsidian!

Paul Gowder: Website | Facebook | https://www.powwows.com/

• Paul's got an awesome Facebook Challenge going on right now!

Books Mentioned

• Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
• Co-Intelligence by Ethan Mollick
• How to Read a Book by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren
• Atomic Habitshttps://a.co/d/0cktd8Ejby James Clear
• The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
• Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg
• Triggers by Marshall Goldsmith

------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What if the biggest opportunity with AI isn't creating more content, it's getting your time back?

----------------------

Jennifer Bennett believes most creators are using AI in the wrong place. Instead of replacing your creativity, she shows how AI can become the back office that quietly handles the repetitive work, keeping you from doing your best work.

In this episode, Jennifer shares her Human-Driven AI Integration Method, explains why you should train AI like an employee instead of treating it like a search engine, and reveals the systems that help creators reclaim their mental bandwidth. We also cover AI agents, documenting your processes, feeding your core values to AI, and practical ways to automate the admin work that drains your week while keeping your voice and relationships at the center of your business.

Key Points:

• Train AI like a new employee, not a tool you can "set and forget"
• Document your processes before buying more AI software
• Solve the biggest mental bottleneck first, not just the biggest time drain
• Build AI agents around your own "source of truth" instead of letting them search the web
• Create systems before software; the best tools won't fix a broken workflow
• Keep the human touch where it matters most: relationships, judgment, and real presence

Resources:

Jennifer Bennett: https://getdesky.com/

• Find Your Bottleneck Quiz: https://quiz.getdesky.com/
• Book a Strategy Call: https://link.playmakerscrm.com/widget/booking/AoAxWr6lqGPRShwB9siU
• The Maximum Leverage Brief (LinkedIn Newsletter): https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7455330621217820672
• Demo Jennifer's AI Speaking Research Tool: https://demo.getdesky.com

Zac Brown: https://zacbrowncreativesolutions.com/

• Zac's Book: An Accidental Education: What I've Learned So Far:
• The Zac Brown Show Podcast: https://podbay.fm/p/the-zac-brown-show

----------------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What separates a memorable interview from one people forget the moment it ends?

-------------

Matt Stagliano believes it isn't about asking better questions; it's about learning when to stop talking. Drawing from more than 25 years of interviewing and his new book, Speak Less, Get More, Matt shares a simple framework for leading conversations that create trust, reveal better stories, and leave a lasting impact.

We explore his PODS interview framework, the power of silence, why great hosts shine the light on their guests instead of themselves, and how AI helps him save hours each week while keeping the human side of his business front and center. Whether you host a podcast, lead sales calls, or simply want better conversations, this episode is full of practical ideas you can put to work right away.

Key Points:

• The PODS framework: Preparation, Orientation, Discovery, and Sendoff
• Why listening is more valuable than asking more questions
• How the "three-beat rule" encourages guests to share deeper insights
• The difference between overperforming and drifting as an interviewer
• Why great hosts illuminate their guests instead of themselves
• How thoughtful editing preserves the natural rhythm of a conversation
• Practical ways AI can reduce administrative work without replacing creativity
• Why creators should train AI like a new employee, not treat it like a search engine
• Common challenges nearly every creative faces, including self-doubt and isolation
• Why building a business that supports your creative work requires learning when to say no

Helpful Links:

Our Amazing Guest:

Matt Stagliano: Website | Podcast | Substack

• His Manual on Claude: Getting Good at Claude: The Setup System
• His Book: Speak Less, Get More

My two other must-read podcasting books:

• The Audience Is Listening by Tom Webster
• Profit from Your Podcast by Dave Jackson

My wonderful Co-host:

Kira Pogge: Website | Podcast | Substack

----------------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What happens when AI can write posts, create images, and sound increasingly human? What's left that truly belongs to you?

In this AMA-style episode, Paul Gowder and I take the hot seat to explore two creator advantages that technology can't replicate: your story and your community. We discuss why personal experiences, unique perspectives, and genuine human connection are becoming even more valuable in a world filled with AI-generated content, and how creators can use AI as a tool without losing their authentic voice.

We also answer audience questions on everything from building an email list and growing a community to Facebook Professional Mode, Meta Verified, networking at conferences, creator burnout, and the daily habits that help creators stay visible and connected. If you're trying to figure out what skills will matter most in the AI era, this episode offers a practical roadmap for building something that algorithms can't take away.

Key Takeaways:

• Your personal experiences and perspective are the one thing AI can't replicate
• Use AI to organize ideas and save time, but keep your stories and voice your own
• Build an email list because social platforms will always change the rules
• Consistency matters more than perfection when growing a community
• The best networking opportunities often come from stepping outside your comfort zone
• Focus on serving your audience first, then create products and offers based on their needs
• Community burnout is real, so create systems, take breaks, and find people who support you
• Live video remains one of the fastest ways to build trust and genuine connections
• If you're starting from scratch, build an email list and create content consistently
• Meta Verified can provide valuable support and account recovery options for creators

----------------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What happens when YouTube starts answering questions instead of just serving up videos?

----------------------

In this episode, Jerry Potter joins us to break down one of the biggest waves of YouTube updates creators have seen in years. From the new Ask YouTube AI search experience to major changes in how Shorts are evaluated and monetized, Jerry explains what these updates actually mean for creators, solopreneurs, and small business owners.

We explore how AI-powered search could affect long-form content, why visual demonstrations may become even more important, and what creators should be doing to make their videos more discoverable in a world where viewers increasingly want answers instead of search results. We also discuss YouTube's growing focus on viewer satisfaction, including shares, rewatches, and engagement signals that go beyond watch time.

Plus, Jerry shares his take on YouTube Shorts, AI-powered remixing tools, creator bonuses, and his Done By Lunch framework for focusing on high-return activities instead of chasing every new feature.

Key Takeaways:

• Ask YouTube could increase the value of videos that answer questions visually
• Create content for humans, not algorithms, even as AI becomes more involved in search
• Visual demonstrations may become more important than ever in an AI-powered YouTube ecosystem
• Shares, rewatches, and viewer satisfaction are becoming stronger indicators of content quality
• YouTube Shorts now rewards viewer completion and satisfaction more than simple views
• Don't chase every new feature; focus on the activities that create the highest return on effort
• A narrow niche helps YouTube find the right audience faster
• Build content that serves your business long after it's published
• Long-form YouTube content remains one of the strongest high-leverage assets for creators and entrepreneurs

Resources:

Jerry Potter: Website | Youtube | Podcast

Paul Gowder: Website | Facebook| 10 Day Facebook Challenge

----------------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

If your Facebook profile disappeared tomorrow, what would happen to your business?

In this episode, Facebook community expert Paul Gowder joins us to break down the biggest account security threats creators and business owners are facing right now. From sophisticated phishing scams and account takeovers to unexpected comment restrictions, Paul shares the practical steps you can take today to protect your profile, pages, and community before something goes wrong.

We also explore Meta Verified, two-factor authentication, backup admin strategies, and what creators should do if they lose access to their accounts. Plus, Paul shares his early thoughts on Meta's new Forum app, what it means for Facebook Groups, and several Facebook growth tactics that are working right now, including conversation-based posts, Professional Dashboard insights, and engagement habits to increase reach.

Key Takeaways:

• Turn on two-factor authentication, Advanced Protection, and Meta Verified to secure your account
• Never click suspicious Facebook links, attackers are using legitimate-looking workflows to gain access
• Add a backup admin and regularly audit who has access to your pages and Business Manager
• Build an email list because Facebook can take away access to your audience at any time
• Focus on conversation-driven content and use Facebook's Professional Dashboard to guide your growth

Links, Recs & Resources:

• Paul Gowder: Website | Facebook | https://www.powwows.com/
• Don't Have a Daily Facebook Routine? Check out Paul's 10 Day Challenge!
• Facebook's New Forum App (IOS Only)
• Paul uses this tool to capture emails from FB Groups
• Zac Brown: Website | Podcast | Instagram

----------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

What if the biggest mistake creators are making with AI isn’t using the wrong tool… it’s using the right tool the wrong way?

----------------------

In this episode, Mike Allton, host of The AI Hat Podcast and one of the leading voices in practical AI for business, explains why most creators and solopreneurs are leaving the majority of AI’s value on the table. Instead of treating AI like a smarter search engine, Mike argues that we should be building specialized assistants that handle repeatable work, save time, and act more like members of our team.

Mike shares the mindset shift that changed his own business, from asking AI questions to creating an AI Chief of Staff that understands his goals, workload, and priorities. We unpack the friction audit process he teaches organizations, how to identify the tasks that create the most administrative drag, and why every creator should start thinking about AI as a team of digital workers rather than a chatbot.

If you’ve been wondering how to move beyond prompts and start building real systems, this episode is packed with practical examples and actionable ideas.

Key Takeaways

• Stop using AI as a search engine and start using it as a specialized assistant
• Run a friction audit to identify repetitive tasks that waste time each week
• Build AI workers around specific jobs instead of one giant all-purpose chat
• Create an AI Chief of Staff that understands your goals, priorities, and bandwidth
• Use AI to handle podcast preparation, research, meeting prep, and reporting
• Ask AI to interview you when building a custom assistant or agent
• Store instructions and knowledge separately so your AI assistants can evolve over time
• Use projects, notebooks, and knowledge bases to reduce hallucinations and improve accuracy
• Choose one AI platform and learn it deeply instead of jumping between tools
• Pay for your AI tools if you’re using them for business and want access to advanced features
• Save time on administrative work so you can spend more time on creative and strategic work
• Think of AI as your first hire, not just another piece of software

Resources

• Mike Allton: Website | Podcast | LinkedIn | Agorapulse
• Check out Mike's Friction Audit Template
• Zac Brown: Website | Instagram | Podcast (Now on YouTube!)

Mike and I are both speaking at Digital Wichita on June 18-19! (Come say Hi!)

----------------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.

Join us for a thoughtful conversation with Zac Brown, host of The Zac Brown Show, as we unpack what storytelling still means in an AI-driven creator world. Instead of chasing algorithms or trying to post more than everyone else, Zac believes the best creators build worlds and emotional experiences, not just publish content.

Zac shares stories from his childhood obsession with VHS tapes, homemade movies, and the creative spark that eventually led him to podcasting and writing his upcoming book, An Accidental Education. He explains how curiosity, play, and paying attention to emotional pacing shaped the way he approaches storytelling today.

We also explore one of the biggest creative lessons Zac has carried with him for years: “kill your darlings.” He explains why great editing is really about shaping emotion, knowing what to cut, and resisting the urge to sound like everyone else online. We also unpack where AI fits into that process, how it can support workflows and creative clarity, and why authenticity is still the one thing creators can’t afford to hand over completely.

Key Takeaways:

• What Zac learned from attending his first Social Media Marketing World
• Why “kill your darlings” is one of the most important editing lessons creators can learn
• How editing shapes emotion and pacing in storytelling
• Why creators should stop trying to imitate what’s already working for someone else
• How AI can support creators without replacing authentic storytelling
• The importance of curiosity and asking better questions as a creator
• Why building a “world” matters more than simply publishing content
• How personal experiences and memories become the foundation of strong stories

Links, Resources, and Recommendations

• Zac Brown: Website | Instagram | Podcast (Now on YouTube!)
• Message him to get the link for the first chapter of his upcoming book, An Accidental Education: What I’ve Learned So Far by Zac Brown (releases June 23rd)
• Disney+ Documentary Series: Light & Magic
• "Scary Mary" Mary Poppins Recut Trailer
• Paul Gowder: Website | Facebook | https://www.powwows.com/

----------------------

Ecamm - Your go-to solution for crafting outstanding live shows and podcasts. - Get 15% off your first payment with promo code JEFF15

CreatorNewsLive.com - Dive into our website for comprehensive episode breakdowns.

Youtube.com - Tune in live, chat with us directly, and be part of the conversation. Or, revisit our archive of past broadcasts to stay updated.

Facebook - Stream our show live and chat with us in real time. Connect, engage, and be a part of our community.

Email - Subscribe and never miss a live show reminder.

----------------------

https://jeffsieh.com/ - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.