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6 Figure Creative

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Brian Hood

6 Figure Creative is a podcast that helps freelance creatives earn more money by doing what they love. If you’re trying to avoid the never-ending grind of a 9–5, or just want to earn more money doing what you do best (creating), 6 Figure Creative is your new favorite show! Join host Brian Hood and his guests as they explore topics such as mental health, finances, sales, marketing, time management, the digital nomad lifestyle, and more.

#337

#337: The Step-by-Step Process for Solving Any Business Roadblock

You know that meme where everything is on fire, and the dog just sits there saying, “This is fine”? Yeah… that’s how most freelancers handle their business problems. ---Empty calendar? Nah it's cool. ---Terrible pricing? Meh. ---Awful clients? It’s fiiiiine. 🔥 Spoiler: It’s NOT fine. Here’s where I'll state the obvious: if you don’t actually solve these problems, they don’t magically disappear. They compound. But there’s good news: every single one of these problems is solvable. In this episode of the 6 Figure Creative podcast, I’m breaking down the one proven way to actually fix your problems for good. It’s time-tested. It’s genius-level simple. So you can stop pretending everything is fine and start putting the fire out. 🧯🔥 Your problems don’t solve themselves. But you can. In this episode you’ll discover: ---The best method for solving your biggest problems ---Why ignoring or half-solving problems creates a snowball of chaos—and how to reverse it. ---The #1 question to ask yourself to uncover your real business bottleneck. ---A simple framework to test, track, and tweak solutions until they stick. ---How to analyze your results and make data-driven decisions (even if math isn’t your strong suit). ---Why solving your biggest problem first creates unstoppable momentum in your business. For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/337] (https://6figurecreative.com/337?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_337) ... Read more

19 Nov 2024

22 MINS

22:39

19 Nov 2024

#336

#336: Let’s Talk Profit | When $130k Per Year Isn’t Enough

Imagine pulling in $130,000 a year as a freelancer… And still struggling to make ends meet. Sounds crazy, right? But it’s happening. And I’ll tell you why. The truth? Income is just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re not focused on profit, that big income number means nothing. In the latest episode of 6 Figure Creative, we dive deep into why chasing revenue alone can actually sink your business—and how to flip the focus so that what you keep is actually worth your time. Don’t let your income be just a “vanity metric.” Get the details on how to make sure you're actually keeping what you make. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why $130k/yr wasn't enough for one freelancer ---The "old way" vs the "new way" of being profitable ---Why opportunity cost means you may need to kill some services ---Making $300+ per hour as a freelancer For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/336] (https://6figurecreative.com/336?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_336) ... Read more

12 Nov 2024

19 MINS

19:02

12 Nov 2024

#335

#335: My Favorite 7 Ways To Make Every Client Worth More

How much is one client worth to you? Not just per project—but over the next 12 months? What about the next 12 YEARS? Most freelancers leave a ton of money on the table because they don’t know how to boost client value. In this week's episode of the 6 Figure Creative Podcast, I'm breaking down seven ways to make each client worth more—without overhauling your whole business. And here’s the best part... Just ONE of these tactics could be worth $10,000-$25,000+ to you over the next 12 months. Imagine if you implemented all seven. Whether it’s adding more services, nailing a sales process, or simply raising your rates, there’s a goldmine of potential in your current clients. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to give yourself a $25,000 per year raise ---The essential terms for client value ---Re-selling your service to past clients ---Revamping your offering to close more sales ---Expanding your offering to benefit your clients ---Finding the right clients for your service ---Offering broader services for a narrower client base ---When to charge an onboarding fee ---Why you need to use a great sales process ---How to make more money when you don't have enough leads For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/335] (https://6figurecreative.com/335?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_335) ... Read more

05 Nov 2024

39 MINS

39:34

05 Nov 2024

#334

#334: Why All Those Half-built Bridges Are Killing Your Business | The Dangers Of Dabbling

Level with me for a second... Are you actually moving forward in your business, or just dabbling? My freelancers fall into the trap of trying to do everything. The result? Ten half-built bridges leading absolutely nowhere. It can be tempting to jump on every new, fun, shiny object you hear about. ---Ohhh that CRM looks awesome ---That direct offer funnel strategy Brian talked about was 🤌🏻 ---It's time I start productizing my services so I'm not reinventing the wheel with every project ---I should probably start taking social media seriously ---Oh... what's this "Boost Post" button do on IG?? (i.e. the "donate your money to Zuck" button) In our latest podcast episode, I’m breaking down the dangers of dabbling and how this approach is costing you time, energy, and income. It's time to stop chasing shiny objects and start building a plan you actually stick to. It’s nearing the end of the year and you’ve got two months left to finish the year strong. Let’s make it count. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why podcasts can be a distraction for freelancers ---Creating a plan and following it until it's done ---Why you shouldn't work for free out of pity ---The theory of constraints ---The four main constraints on your business ---Options you're facing right now ---How we can help you For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/334] (https://6figurecreative.com/334?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_334) ... Read more

29 Oct 2024

18 MINS

18:35

29 Oct 2024

#333

#333: Why You’re Stuck On The Feast Or Famine Roller Coaster (And How To Get Off)

Are you stuck on the world's worst rollercoaster? You know, the one that goes from feast to famine every few months? If your freelance business is 100% relying on referrals and word of mouth, you might have unknowingly fallen into what I call the "Word of Mouth Death Trap"—where your income swings wildly, and you’ve got zero control. In this week's episode of 6 Figure Creative, I break down why this happens and, more importantly, how you can escape it. The solution? It’s all about controlling your inputs to create predictable outputs... Sounds boring, but the results are not. Learn the six strategies to take control of your client acquisition and build a business that doesn’t leave your financial future up to chance. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Avoiding the feast or famine income flow that leads to lifestyle creep ---Putting your business in your control rather than using "hope marketing" ---Using processes to gain more clients ---Finding marketing methods that work at scale ---What to track to understand your email marketing and sales numbers ---Using follow-up routines to stay top of mind with clients ---Nurturing leads long-term to warm them up for a sale ---How to get help for your business For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/333] (https://6figurecreative.com/333?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_333) ... Read more

22 Oct 2024

29 MINS

29:34

22 Oct 2024

#332

#332: 7 Must-Track Metrics That Will Make You More Money In 2025

If you’re not tracking these seven key metrics in your business, you’re leaving money on the table. Seriously—most freelancers don’t bother, and it’s why they never hit the income goals they SAY they want. I just dropped a new episode breaking down the 7 metrics you need to track. If you focus on these, you’ll make more money AND do it consistently—plain and simple. It's not hard to do, but you DO need to know which 7 numbers actually matter. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Understanding lagging vs. leading indicators ---What kind of leads to seek ---Key benchmarks for your business ---Eliminating low-paying aspects of your work ---Getting recurring revenue rather than new clients ---Why raising your rates is ok, even if you lose clients ---How to progress in your business with a personalized roadmap For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/332] (https://6figurecreative.com/332?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_332) ... Read more

15 Oct 2024

40 MINS

40:55

15 Oct 2024

#331

#331: The Secret to Less Stress and More Progress

Ever feel like you're drowning in things you can't control? I get it. It's frustrating when life throws curveballs like that potentially AMAZING lead ghosting you... Or that toxic client failing to pay you what they owe. But here's the reality: You have way more power than you think. This week’s podcast is all about "Controlling the Controllables". It’s simple—stop wasting energy on what you can't change, and laser-focus on what you can. Funny enough this is something I learned from my 3-year-old niece, and now it's your turn to apply this to your life. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How great parenting relates to you and your business ---How to adjust your attitude and actions when.... ---Why you need more leads ---Toxic attitudes to avoid ---Setting aside time to work on your business ---Taking ownership of everything in your business ---How to set up your notifications to focus on productivity ---Setting goals for your business and personal life For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/331] (https://6figurecreative.com/331?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_331) ... Read more

08 Oct 2024

22 MINS

22:07

08 Oct 2024

#330

#330: What’s Working Now For Client Acquisition (A Guide For Freelancers)

Tired of chasing clients like it’s a never-ending treadmill? Here’s the truth: Only ~3% of your potential clients are ready to hire you right now. The other 97%? They’re not even thinking about you. Think about it like car shopping. You're either part of the ~3% who are in the market for a new car and noticing cars EVERYWHERE, or you're part of the 97% where cars aren't even remotely on your mind. In today's episode, we dive into a no-BS strategy to target that golden 3%—the clients who want what you offer NOW. No cold outreach, no content grind, no relying on inconsistent word-of-mouth. Just a simple, repeatable way to land clients ready to pay today. Let’s turn that 3% into a full calendar of paying clients. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why various types of marketing don't work anymore ---How to get the 3% of leads that are ready to buy right now ---How to turn on the "lead" faucet that you control ---Reducing risk to increase sales ---How to determine if your leads are a good fit ---Using a sales process to increase your close rate ---How to escape a red ocean market For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/330] (https://6figurecreative.com/330?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_330) ... Read more

01 Oct 2024

31 MINS

31:06

01 Oct 2024

#329

#329: The 5 Major Pricing Mistakes That Keep You Broke

NOTE: Sorry about the audio quality here. The mic cable had a short in it 😭 If you're working non-stop but still struggling to make ends meet, you're probably making one of these five major pricing mistakes. I just dropped an episode that breaks down 5 pricing traps freelancers fall into—and how to fix them before they burn you out. Here's the hard truth: you could be the great at what you do, great at keeping yourself booked solid, BUT still broke because of any ONE of these mistakes. Fix your pricing, and you'll be amazed how much more enjoyable your life gets (and your savings account will thank you). In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to match clients to your skillset ---Getting stuck with hourly rates and bespoke services ---Delivering the same service to clients on a repeatable basis ---Separating your pricing from your time ---Using "up to" language to protect yourself ---How and when to raise your rates For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/329] (https://6figurecreative.com/329?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_329) ... Read more

24 Sep 2024

33 MINS

33:23

24 Sep 2024

#328

#328: I Paid Alex Hormozi A Bunch Of Money To Spend A Day With Him

Imagine getting your business ripped apart by a guy who runs a $250M empire. That’s exactly what happened to me when I spent an entire day locked in a room with Alex Hormozi and 9 other entrepreneurs. Alex didn’t hold back—he showed us exactly why we were stuck, why we were plateauing, and how to fix it. The biggest takeaways? I break them all down in this 38 min episode If you’re constantly juggling 10 different projects and can’t seem to break through your income ceiling, this episode is for you. For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/328] (https://6figurecreative.com/328?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_328) ... Read more

17 Sep 2024

40 MINS

40:11

17 Sep 2024

#327

#327: Mastering The Art Of Self-Promotion | The Lead Generation Series

Raise your hand if you suck at self-promotion... 🙋🏻‍♂️ 🙋🏼 🙋🏿‍♂️ 🙋🏻‍♀️🙋🏽‍♀️ (←that's probably you.) Sadly, self-promotion is where most freelancers hit a wall. It's one thing to create an amazing service or irresistible lead magnet, but it's entirely another to promote it effectively. If your calendar isn't booked solid with projects from ideal clients, then you likely suck at self-promotion. (just being real with you 🤷🏻‍♂️) For those naysayers who think, "self-promotion!? You shouldn't have to self-promote if you're good at what you do!", I urge you to kill that thought with the fire of a thousand suns. That's a self-imposed limitation. If promotion is a "normal thing" across every other industry, why should freelancers be the exception? At its core, lead generation isn't about making lead magnets or revamping your freelance services. It's about mastering the art of self-promotion. So, whether you're a seasoned freelancer or a newbie, we're about to dive into the nitty-gritty of self-promotion. We need to make sure your service (or lead magnets) doesn't go to waste. By the end of it, you'll be armed with the tools to make your freelance business self-sustaining. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why your lead magnets aren't working ---The six types of traffic ---The "core four" types of marketing Brian uses ---Using earned media to grow relationships ---Why only 3% of your audience is ready to purchase from you right now ---How hackers make money with stolen ad accounts ---Demand creation vs. demand harvesting ---Harnessing referrals and word-of-mouth marketing ---Using a referral circle to help fellow freelancers ---How to get a plan for your lead generation efforts For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/327] (https://6figurecreative.com/327?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_327) ... Read more

10 Sep 2024

31 MINS

31:45

10 Sep 2024

#326

#326: The 4 Types of Lead Magnets That Actually Work | The Lead Generation Series

Let’s dive into a crucial piece of the freelancer's marketing toolkit: The Lead Magnet. Imagine your lead magnet as an introductory handshake in the online world. It's your first impression, and we all know how vital that is. Your lead magnet isn’t merely a "hello"... it’s an "I understand your problems and I know how to help." Every lead is a person looking for a solution, and your lead magnet is the first step in proving that YOU are that solution. What we’re crafting isn’t just a freebie or a basic tool. Your lead magnet is proof that you don’t just talk the talk but you walk the walk. It demonstrates up front that you bring real value to the table. And no, a lead magnet isn’t just another PDF or ebook – it can be, but it doesn’t have to be. It can be a tool, a resource, or a guide. It might even be a paid service or workshop. The shape of a lead magnet is flexible, but its purpose is rigid: to provide immense, undeniable value. This isn’t about merely generating leads or adding names to an email list. It’s about connecting with a person, and proving that you have the solution they’ve been hunting for. Ready to create something amazing? Let’s dive into this... In this episode you’ll discover: ---The power of paid lead magnets ---Solving problems for your leads ---People who have more time than money, vs more money than time ---Using your services to bring in new clients ---Why taking a loss in the short term can be a benefit in the long term ---Using information as a lead magnet ---The questions to ask when offering a free consultation ---The four main ways to fully solve the problem your leads are facing For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/326] (https://6figurecreative.com/326?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_326) ... Read more

03 Sep 2024

32 MINS

32:49

03 Sep 2024

#325

#325: The Secret to Consistent Clients | The Lead Generation Series

Listen, I've heard it a hundred times, and I bet you have, too... "If you're good enough, you can just wait for clients to come to you." They say. "Word of mouth is all you need." They say. But here's the deal: sitting on your hands and hoping for that magical email notification of a new client isn't a strategy—it's a death trap. Let me paint a picture... You're a talented freelancer. You've had some good months, even great ones. But then there's that one sobering month. The inquiries dry up, the referrals dwindle, and your inbox is eerily silent. Panic sets in. That, my friend, is the terrifying "word-of-mouth death trap". There's a common myth in the freelance world. Some folks will have you believe that the only way to thrive is through word of mouth. But here’s the truth bomb: Anyone saying "word-of-mouth is best" is unqualified to give you that advice. They are just coasting along nicely with it, having never tasted the desperation of the dry season. Many still end up taking on gigs they aren’t passionate about, just to keep the lights on. And sure, referrals are fabulous. If you're great at what you do, you'll 100% get them. But if you're banking solely on word of mouth to keep your calendar booked with clients, then you're setting yourself up for a rocky ride. So, what's the antidote to this feast or famine nightmare? Two words: Lead Generation. Here's the breakdown: Leads become inquiries. Inquiries become clients. And when you have a consistent influx of leads every month, you've got a buffer against those terrifying dry spells. Suddenly, your business isn't about hoping for clients—it's about choosing them. In the coming series, we'll dive deep into the nuts and bolts of lead generation, tailored specifically for freelancers. Because here's the truth: understanding and mastering lead generation is like handing yourself the keys to consistency. Ready to escape the word-of-mouth death trap? Click here to start the Lead Generation Series. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why Brian has had a horrible week thanks to Meta ---Different methods of lead generation, and how your business type changes your lead acquisition ---The importance of a solid lead magnet ---Keys to a valuable lead magnet ---What to do if you're struggling ---Understanding what your clients need ---Using the Three-Tier-Outcome Map ---Diagnosing problems to add value to leads For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/325] (https://6figurecreative.com/325?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_325) ... Read more

27 Aug 2024

32 MINS

32:49

27 Aug 2024

#324

#324: The Secret Ingredient To Higher Paying Gigs | The Client Acquisition Series

If you've been stuck at 4 or 5 figures per year as a freelancer, there's likely one ingredient that is holding you back from growth. Without this ingredient, it is 100% impossible to get clients, grow your income, and get past the 6 figure mark (if that's your goal). In this week's episode of the 6 Figure Creative Podcast, my buddy Mark Eckert and I map out the path you can take to overcoming all of the hurdles between you and this incredibly important missing ingredient. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to move from four/five figures to six figures+ ---Why you aren't full time yet ---How to revamp your entire public-facing identity as a freelancer ---The difference between advertising vs. content marketing and why this matters for freelancers ---Why you should be producing more than consuming ---How sticking to a schedule or routine can tie all of this together For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/324] (https://6figurecreative.com/324?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_324) ... Read more

20 Aug 2024

43 MINS

43:37

20 Aug 2024

#323

#323: How To Build Your Own Client Acquisition Machine (And Make 2025 Your Best Year Ever)

If you've ever felt like your freelance life has been a neverending feast-or-famine roller coaster, chances are you're missing one (or more) pieces of a full client acquisition machine. You've likely "dabbled" with bits and pieces here and there, but you've never fully built each of the individual parts and refined them to the point where everything is working as a well-oiled machine bringing you high-quality clients every single month. In this week's episode of the 6 Figure Creative Podcast, I break down each of the major parts of your Client Acquisition Machine, as well as what specific numbers you should be aiming for as a benchmark. If you've ever wanted more stability and predictability in your business, and you want a clear roadmap for how to make 2025 your best year ever, this episode is for you. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to solve a consistency issue in your business ---Why dabbling is slowly destroying your income stream ---The foundation of your Client Acquisition Machine ---Creating a transformational outcome for your clients ---Building your Marketing Mothership ---Your responsibility to sell to those who need your service ---The parallels between software and freelancing ---Nurturing your leads for a long-term relationship ---Fine-tuning your Client Acquisition Machine For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/323] (https://6figurecreative.com/323?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_323) ... Read more

13 Aug 2024

53 MINS

53:42

13 Aug 2024

#322

#322: The 4 Major Missing Pieces Of Your Marketing Plan | The Client Acquisition Series

Here are a few of the biggest lies when it comes to marketing your freelance business. ---"If I'm good enough, people will find me and hire me" ---"The only marketing I need is word-of-mouth" ---"If I market myself, I'll come across as desperate" ---"This sort of stuff doesn't work for freelancers" If any of that sounds like you, my guess would be you likely have very little predictability in your income. You might go from having more gigs than you can handle, followed by extreme famine periods where your calendar dries up (along with your bank account). If you want steady, predictable income for your business every single month, there are 4 key things you need in place. If you're even missing one of these four pieces, you're making your path to predictability extremely difficult (or impossible). In this episode you’ll discover: ---Marketing plans for freelancers ---When email lists are vital, vs. when they're optional ---"Proposing" via text message ---The "3% rule" and the "80/19/1 rule" ---How your niche affects your marketing needs ---Swiping or dating: lead generation and lead nurture ---How to create a business you rarely *(if ever) have to market For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/322] (https://6figurecreative.com/322?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_322) ... Read more

06 Aug 2024

34 MINS

34:46

06 Aug 2024

#321

#321: How To Generate 1000 Inquiries Per Year As A Logo Designer | With James Martin

Ever felt like your industry is just too saturated to stand out? Like you're just a tiny drop in a massive ocean? You're not alone. Nearly every freelancer has a moment (or ten) where they doubt themselves and their ability to stand out in a crowded "red ocean". That's why I was so excited to talk to James Martin from [Made By James.] (https://www.instagram.com/made.by.james/) James is a designer who's had immense success in the crowded niche of logo design. He's found a way to not just stand out, but thrive in an incredibly competitive niche. James is averaging around 1,000 inquiries from potential clients every single year, and this has allowed him to cherry-pick the best gigs and reject the "bill paying work" that many freelancers are forced to say yes to. Whether you're a designer or not, this episode will contain a lot of fantastic advice from someone who's built an incredible, long-lasting career as a freelancer. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How James Martin has thrived for nearly 2 decades as a creative ---Why niching down too early is worse than not niching at all ---How to stand out in a saturated market ---Passion vs. systems and habit ---Why it's dangerous to rely on social media ---Giving your clients the most value they can afford ---Why it's time to raise your prices right now ---Relationships in business ---The difference between survival and thriving For full show notes, visit [https://6figurecreative.com/321] (https://6figurecreative.com/321?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_321) ... Read more

30 Jul 2024

1 HR 01 MINS

1:01:57