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6 Figure Creative podcast

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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.

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.

 

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#305

#305: There Might Be A Good Argument For Selling Your Soul For $$$

Navigating life as a creative freelancer is all about balancing what you love doing with what pays the bills. It's often framed as "selling your soul", but really, it's about making tough choices: do you follow your passion or chase the cash? For creatives, this dilemma is pretty intense. You've got the classic 'starving artist' on one side. They're rich in satisfaction but often struggle financially. Then there's the other side - the freelancers who focus mainly on what brings in money. Sure, they might be doing better financially, but at what cost? This week's episode explores each side in a search for finding a healthy balance between money and passion or the seasons of life that may be the right time to focus on money instead of passion. Whether you're the classic "starving artist" or the money-focused freelancer, this episode is worth a listen. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Hobbies vs businesses ---Are you motivated by passion or profit? ---The importance of focusing on what your clients want ---Giving yourself more free time by being profit-driven ---Reducing your stress by becoming a profit-driven creative ---Why passion-driven creatives need to change For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/305] (https://6figurecreative.com/305?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_305) ... Read more

23 Apr 2024

14 MINS

14:24

23 Apr 2024

#304

#304: The 10 Most Brutal Client Acquisition Mistakes That Are Wrecking Your Earning Potential

Client acquisition is obviously an important part of running a freelance business because it’s how you make sure you keep getting paid every month. Despite how obvious this is, many freelancers don’t take this seriously enough... and it shows when work dries up and you're back into the dreaded feast-or-famine cycle. If you worked in a day job that decided to stop paying you for weeks or months at a time, you'd probably do something about it. However, many freelancers never do anything about this in their own business. They just keep showing up to "work" week after week, month after month, accepting their fate. If you'd like to be a better "boss" to yourself and actually make sure you get paid every month, this week's episode is all about avoiding some of the most common client acquisition mistakes If you stop making these mistakes and start taking client acquisition seriously, you’ll have more stability, better projects, and fewer dry spells. What’s not to like about that? In this episode you’ll discover: ---Avoiding the basic mistakes that you make during client acquisition ---Adding value as a freelancer ---Why a high close rate is dangerous for your business ---How to increase your sales with a high-quality follow-up sequence ---Fix your pricing model! For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/304] (https://6figurecreative.com/304?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_304) ... Read more

16 Apr 2024

41 MINS

41:37

16 Apr 2024

#303

#303: How To Set Yourself Apart From The Other 500,000,000 Freelancers In The World | Part 4

In the final episode of this 4-part series, we're diving into one of the most powerful but often misunderstood methods of standing out from the crowd. I saved the best for last. This has been the "secret sauce" behind my all of my successful businesses, from freelancing, to Airbnb, to multiple software companies, and even podcasting. Without this last piece of the puzzle, nothing I've tried would have worked, and I'd likely still be working at Gamestop for minimum wage (missing out on millions of $ in the process) If you're ready to become absolutely indispensable to your clients, listen to this week's episode to the 6 Figure Creative Podcast. In this episode you’ll discover: ---The importance of specialization ---Why niches work better than others ---Conversion-focused web design as a differentiation method ---Niching down vs. niching out ---The advantages of pushing bad leads away For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/303] (https://6figurecreative.com/303?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_303) ... Read more

09 Apr 2024

31 MINS

31:20

09 Apr 2024

#302

#302: How To Set Yourself Apart From The Other 500,000,000 Freelancers In The World | Part 3

Want to know the 3 golden rules for winning more clients than your competition? First off, forget about competing on price. It’s a dead-end street. Instead, focus on adding value in unique ways that don’t undercut your worth. It’s about quality, not the lowest bid. Second, make sure your stand-out factors are visible from the get-go. Qualities like a "great client experience" or a "cool vibe" are awesome, but they only shine through after you’re hired. You need something that grabs attention before that stage, something that makes potential clients think, “Yes, THIS is the right person for us,” before they even talk to you. Third, K.I.S.S. (keep it stupid simple). Focus on one differentiator at a time. In a sea of sameness, one well-defined trait can be your ticket to standing out. It’s not about being a jack-of-all-trades but a master of one. Last week, we talked about the ways you can differentiate by brute force, which can be tough and pricey. This week, let’s get into something more accessible yet equally powerful: building trust and credibility, especially through social proof. It’s about showing, not just telling, that you’re the real deal. Social proof, like glowing testimonials or endorsements, can be a game-changer. It’s about having others vouch for you, and showing potential clients that you’ve delivered 🤩amazing🤩 work before. This kind of proof doesn’t need to break the bank but does require effort and intentionality to gather and showcase. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Using social proof for differentiation ---The impact of reviews on your business. ---Asking for feedback and reviews ---How to get case studies for social proof ---Content creation to generate quote requests For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/302] (https://6figurecreative.com/302?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_302) ... Read more

02 Apr 2024

24 MINS

24:15

02 Apr 2024

#301

#301: How To Set Yourself Apart From The Other 500,000,000 Freelancers In The World | Part 2

Why should someone hire you vs alllll the other options they have? If you don't have a good answer to that question yet, it's time to start working on it before the estimated [500 Million freelancers] (https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonyounger/2022/02/01/the-freelance-revolution-is-just-getting-started-key-trends-in-2022/?sh=24a39a1a118b) come online by the end of this decade. This week I broke down 5 "Brute Force Differentiators" you can use to set yourself apart. If you're trying to find more ways to stand out, this is a great start! In this episode you’ll discover: ---The three rules of differentiation ---Why lowering your price will never help you --- When you need to stand out to close the deal ---Focusing on one point so you aren't spread thin ---Types of differentiators ---Why being the best doesn't matter ---Why gear is not a good differentiator ---Growing a better network to stand out For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/301] (https://6figurecreative.com/301?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_301) ... Read more

26 Mar 2024

25 MINS

25:39

26 Mar 2024

#300

#300: How To Set Yourself Apart From The Other 500,000,000 Freelancers In The World | Part 1

"But they do it for less". If you've heard lines like that over the past year, get ready to hear it even more over the next 5-10 years. Why? Well here's a terrifying stat: There are an estimated 500,000,000 freelancers " [coming online] (https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonyounger/2022/02/01/the-freelance-revolution-is-just-getting-started-key-trends-in-2022/?sh=24a39a1a118b) " by the end of this decade. WTF can we do to set ourselves apart from all those people WITHOUT resorting to dropping our rates? It all comes down to one unsexy word: Differentiation. Why should someone hire YOU vs alllll the other options they have? If you don't have a damn good answer for that, you're going to have a bad time... Stick around for this new series where I'll dive into all the nitty-gritty on how to stand out, earn more, and keep doing what we love for the rest of your life. In this episode you’ll discover: 1--How freelancing grew in recent years 2--Why should someone hire you? 3--How low pricing hurts you and all other creatives 4--The dangers of trying to appeal to everyone 5--Making sure we don't lose our creativity while running a business 6--The importance of differentiation in your business For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/300] (https://6figurecreative.com/300?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_300) ... Read more

19 Mar 2024

20 MINS

20:33

19 Mar 2024

#299

#299: Why You Should Ask Your Clients For Feedback After Every Single Project | The Infinite Clients...

If you're an obsessive learner (or ADHD) like me, there's probably a long list of new things you've learned and implemented as a freelancer over the past year. Maybe you've [set up that rock-solid client contract] (https://6figurecreative.com/the-rock-solid-8-part-client-agreement-for-starting-every-project-off-right-the-infinite-client-series/) , nailed down [an onboarding process that's smooth as butter] (https://6figurecreative.com/the-5-step-blueprint-for-perfect-client-onboarding-the-infinite-client-series/) , or started following those [essential tips for staying top-of-mind with clients without driving them or yourself crazy] (https://6figurecreative.com/the-6-bare-minimum-rules-for-solid-client-communication-the-infinite-client-series/) . Or perhaps you've been working on [your project management skills] (https://6figurecreative.com/how-to-create-an-external-brain-that-helps-you-finish-projects-on-time-every-time-the-infinite-client-series/) to keep all your ducks in a row or [taken a page out of Michael Janda's playbook] (https://6figurecreative.com/how-michael-janda-built-a-30000000-design-agency-from-one-super-power-the-infinite-client-series/) to become someone people just can't help but like. And let's not forget about [setting those boundaries to keep things professional and sane] (https://6figurecreative.com/6-client-boundaries-to-keep-you-healthy-happy-stress-free-and-profitable-the-infinite-clients-series/) . But here's the kicker: doing all these things isn't the end of the road. It's not about ticking boxes and moving on. The real magic happens when you stop and ask yourself... ---"Is all this stuff actually making a difference to my clients? ---"Am I getting better at this?" That's what keeps the wheel turning and what makes you better month after month, year after year. Now, when most freelancers wrap up a project, it's usually a quick "thanks and goodbye" deal. Maybe you're a bit more proactive and ask for a referral, but I bet asking for feedback isn't high on your list. It might be because you don't know you should, or maybe you're just scared of what your clients might say. And hey, that's totally understandable. But here's the problem: not asking for feedback is a missed opportunity. Sure, "asking clients for feedback" doesn't sound as flashy as "marketing" or "client acquisition," but by the time we're done here, you'll see it in a new light. Feedback can be your secret weapon. It's not just about finding out what you're doing right or wrong; it's about showing your clients that you care, and that you're committed to being the best you can be. So, even though it might seem scary or unexciting, collecting and using feedback can reshape how everything in your business is done. In this week's episode, I give you specific questions to ask your clients at the end of every single project. THIS will forever change how you spot weak points and make improvements on the most important things. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why asking for feedback from clients is so important ---How clients' wounds can fester ---Using feedback to continuously improve your business ---Building your feedback flywheel ---The two main types of businesses ---How to collect your data ---Share your feedback with us! For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/299] (https://6figurecreative.com/299?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_299) ... Read more

12 Mar 2024

27 MINS

27:58

12 Mar 2024

#298

#298: 6 Client Boundaries to Keep You Healthy, Happy, Stress-free, and Profitable | The Infinite Cli...

So you made it to $100,000+ per year... Congrats. Too bad you made so many sacrifices that you're constantly stressed out, you're missing out on time with friends and family, and you resent your business. The irony is that you became a freelancer because you hated your day job and you wanted to work for yourself. Now, you feel like you have 50 "little bosses", and you hate your life a little bit more with each new client you gain. If this sounds like you, it may be time to put boundaries into place to get to that sweet spot between hitting your income goals while also enjoying your life and business. In this week's episode of the 6 Figure Creative Podcast, I give you 6 different boundaries you should have with your clients so you can actually stay happy, healthy, and profitable. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Maintaining mental and physical health while you're running a business ---How to handle revision requests without losing your mind ---Eliminating one of the most painful freelance experiences ---How to keep your clients from taking advantage of your kindness ---Boundaries for corporate/agency clients ---Using boundaries to avoid scope creep ---Avoiding stress with payment issues ---How to learn more about building your client acquisition machine For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/298] (https://6figurecreative.com/298?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_298) ... Read more

05 Mar 2024

35 MINS

35:55

05 Mar 2024

#297

#297: The Best Method For Avoiding "Revision Hell" For The Rest Of Your Life | The Infinite Clients ...

You have had one of those projects that went south fast? You're cruising along, and then boom, you hit the revisions stage, and it's like hitting a brick wall. Emotions run high, lists of changes start flying in, and what was supposed to be a quick fix turns into a never-ending nightmare. If you've been freelancing for a while, then I'm sure you've been there. This is the make-or-break moment in your quest for repeat clients and referrals. If the revisions process feels like a battleground, you're in trouble. It's supposed to be about making things better, but instead, it can end up being the thing that drives you and your client apart (sometimes forever). But here's the good news... It doesn't have to be this way. The revisions stage can actually be a chance to show your clients that you're 100% on their side and that you have their best interest in mind. Instead of dreading feedback, see it as a way to make the project even better. It's about getting organized, setting clear expectations, and most importantly, keeping your cool. So, how do you go from Revisions Hell to Revisions Nirvana? That's the topic of this week's episode of the 6 Figure Creative Podcast. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Making a flawless revisions process to keep your clients happy and create a viral business ---The rules of efficient, effective revisions ---How to politely stay firm on your project scope ---Creating client guidelines ---Why freelancers drop the ball ---Refining your processes once you have data For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/297] (https://6figurecreative.com/297?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_297) ... Read more

27 Feb 2024

34 MINS

34:00

27 Feb 2024

#296

#296: How Michael Janda Built A $30,000,000 Design Agency From One Super Power | The Infinite Client...

Being likable is a super power for freelancers, and here's why... This business is all about making a great first impression, keeping your clients coming back for more, and getting them to tell their friends about you. When you meet a new client, hitting it off right away can make a huge difference. Just like when you meet anyone new and instantly click — you just want to hang out more. For freelancers, being more likable means clients are more likely to pick you over someone else, and stick around AND refer more work your way. See why this matters? Here's what sucks... Some people are just bad at being likable. If that's the case, what can you do? To help us all out with this, I brought back one of the most likable people I've ever had on the show: Michael Janda. Michael joined us back on [episode 207] (https://6figurecreative.com/how-freelancers-can-use-the-rule-of-7-to-ethically-get-more-clients-with-mike-janda/) and walked us through how brought in 6 figures his first year freelancing, and went on to bring in over $30,000,000 from his design agency before he ultimately sold it. Those numbers show proof that he knows his stuff, and this episode, he'll walk us through what we can do to become the person people WANT to be around (and hire). No matter who you are, there is something you need to hear in my conversion with Michael Janda. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why relationships are so important to building your business ---Building your reputation vs. building relationships ---How he landed a $500,000 client just by being nice ---Getting out of your shell when interacting with people ---What skills to work on to grow your business ---Asking people about themselves to win them over ---Why playing games with your business is bad ---Creating goodwill with your clients For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/296] (https://6figurecreative.com/296?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_296) ... Read more

20 Feb 2024

52 MINS

52:40

20 Feb 2024

#295

#295: How To Create An "External Brain" That Helps You Finish Projects On Time Every Time | The Infi...

Today, let's chat about a struggle that hits home for a lot of us creatives... We kind of have a bad rep for getting projects across the finish line on time without dropping the ball. You know the drill – underestimating how long things will take, forgetting those tiny yet crucial details, and then, bam, you've dropped the ball... Again. Then we get those fun 3 AM panic attacks about that thing you forgot to send off to your client. Yep, been there, done that. Here's why we kinda suck at this: Trying to store every single tiny little project detail, deadline, and step in your head is a surefire recipe for disaster. There's just no way for our brains to keep track of this. It's a common trap, thinking you can wing it because you've done similar projects before. "I've got this," you say... Until you don't. But what if you didn't have to rely on your beautiful creative scatterbrain to keep everything straight? Enter the concept of an "external brain." This isn't sci-fi; it's about using tools and systems outside your head to keep track of all the moving parts of your projects. Your "external brain" never forgets, always keeps you on track, and is the difference between a smooth project delivery and a midnight meltdown. Switching to an "external brain" means you can focus on what you do best – being creative – without the added stress of remembering every little detail. So, if you're nodding along, thinking, "Yep, that's me," it's time to make a change. Listen to this week's episode of the 6 Figure Creative Podcast to dive into the world of project management tools and find your perfect match. Your brain (and your clients) will thank you. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to make sure you hit your deadlines without stretching yourself thin ---Creating your project checklist ---Checklists vs SOPs ---Handling client revision requests ---The different types of project structures ---Why templates will make your life easier ---Using project management for data tracking ---Brainstorming your tasks to create your delivery lists For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/295] (https://6figurecreative.com/295?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_295) ... Read more

13 Feb 2024

31 MINS

31:52

13 Feb 2024

#294

#294: The 6 BARE MINIMUM Rules For Solid Client Communication | The Infinite Client Series

Pretty much all of us got into this "trading creativity for $$$" thing because we absolutely love what we do. It's easy to forget that there's more to the game than just passion + being good at your craft. The whole "client communication" thing usually isn't the most thrilling part of your day. It's like, we get so caught up in the excitement of creating and learning new things in our field that we kind of let the whole talking-to-clients thing slide. It's not because we want to be bad at it, and it's not because we're terrible people... But because we're just not wired that way, especially if your background is anything like mine. Before freelancing, here was my entire job history: ---A janitor at a water park ---Flipping burgers at Burger King ---Selling video games at GameStop Corporate world? Never heard of her. Team meetings and office politics? Nope. So when it comes to wearing the "professional communicator hat", it's something I had to learn the hard way. I had no clear boundaries, no set times for chats, no structure. It was chaos. Messages got lost, things got forgotten, and before I knew it, I was that flaky freelancer nobody wanted to deal with. If that's anything like you, it becomes a stressful, awful mess FAST....not just for you but for your clients too. Think about it from their side. They've just dropped thousands of dollars on hiring you, pumped to see what you'll create together. But if they're left in the dark, not knowing when they'll hear from you or what's happening, that excitement turns to anxiety, then frustration, and maybe even anger. No one wants to work in that kind of vibe. Bottom line... If you want to keep doing what you love (and get paid for it without losing your mind), you've got to get a handle on the whole communication thing. To help with this, I've got 6 rules for client communication for you to follow. Think of this as the bare minimum any good freelancer should be doing. It's about setting clear rules for when and how you'll talk to your clients, making sure everyone's on the same page, and keeping things running smoothly. It's about making your clients feel taken care of and avoiding that whole excitement > anxiety > anger cycle that can lead to horrible projects (and no referrals). Check out the episode, and IMPLEMENT ASAP. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How we can learn the skills we need to have healthy, effective communication with clients ---Six rules to keep your clients happy (and yourself sane) ---Internal business communication tools vs. external communication tools ---Why clients want plain, simple English ---Keeping your clients up to date ---Using feedback loops to make sure your clients are happy, without overworking ---Turning a client's outlook around by going the extra mile ---Communicating expectations to leads and clients ---Conflict resolution techniques to use with your clients For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/294] (https://6figurecreative.com/294?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_294) ... Read more

06 Feb 2024

34 MINS

34:53

06 Feb 2024

#293

#293: The 5-Step Blueprint for Perfect Client Onboarding | The Infinite Clients Series

When you're freelancing, those first steps with a brand new client are absolutely crucial to nail. It's like when you're trying out a new app and everything from the welcome screen to the first few clicks just flows effortlessly. You instantly know you're going to enjoy using it. That's the smooth, user-friendly vibe you want your client onboarding system to have. So, why is it such a big deal? For starters, it's all about building trust. We're in a world where a lot of our interactions happen over emails or messages, making it tough to really feel a connection. A smooth onboarding experience can help make your client feel like they've made the right choice in picking you. It also helps avoid those awkward "that's not what I thought we agreed on" moments. Getting everyone clear on what's what from the start means less back-and-forth later on. It's choosing the right playlist before a long drive – it sets the tone and keeps the vibes good all the way. But it's not just about avoiding mix-ups. An awesome onboarding process shows you're a pro who cares about your clients' experiences. This can lead to more work from the same clients and even some word-of-mouth recommendations (i.e. "infinite clients"). And let's be honest, who doesn't want that? Plus, a slick onboarding system can save you a ton of time on the admin stuff, giving you more time to focus on the actual work. It's about being prepared to be creative vs frantically scrambling for things. So, if you're nodding along and thinking, "Yeah, I need to get my onboarding game on point," then you'll want to check this week's podcast episode. We break down a 5-part client onboarding process that's straightforward and effective. It's packed with practical tips and insights that could really make a difference in your freelancing journey. Give it a listen and let me know what you think! In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to build a great client onboarding questionnaire ---Why bad onboarding destroys relationships ---Organizing your data to avoid embarrassing moments ---Creating a kickass kickoff call ---Why it's easier to fire a client earlier rather than later ---JUST USE A CALENDAR LINK ---Make your kickoff calls as short as possible - while still covering everything needed ---Setting expectations properly ---Remember to show excitement! For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/293] (https://6figurecreative.com/293?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_293) ... Read more

30 Jan 2024

33 MINS

33:58

30 Jan 2024

#292

#292: The Rock-Solid 8 Part Client Agreement For Starting Every Project Off Right | The Infinite Cli...

We're now rolling into the first real episode of this new "Infinite Clients" series, and my goal is to set up each episode in this series with a new rule... or better yet, a commandment. Maybe we'll have a full "10 Commandments For Infinite Clients" by the end, but let's just start with #1: 1--Thou Shalt Put It All In Writing. If you want a guaranteed way to lose a client for life (including any referrals they might have sent), start by putting nothing in writing. Mismatched expectations are a killer of client happiness. The client might expect one thing, and they get something totally different. That's why a rock-solid client agreement is so important. This isn't about them simply being slightly annoyed. It can lead to bigger issues like losing clients for life or even running into legal disputes (Yuck 🤮). The goal IS NOT to lock them into some sort of "legalese" contract they hardly understand... it's to write it all out in plain, easy-to-understand English (or your whatever your native language is) so they understand what IS and IS NOT included. This is the first step to infinite clients. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why setting expectations accurately is vital to your business ---How to use a client agreement to ensure you and your clients are on the same page ---The key elements of a client agreement ---How setting timelines keeps your projects on schedule ---Who owns the created work ---Credit and cancellation policies For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/292] (https://6figurecreative.com/292?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_292) ... Read more

23 Jan 2024

20 MINS

20:37

23 Jan 2024

#291

#291: How To Create A Viral Freelancing Business That Gives You "Infinite" Clients | The Infinite Cl...

The phrase "Infinite clients" sounds like one of those terrible, cheesy, late-night infomercials, but is something like that really possible? Absolutely not. Infinite? Come on... Here's what I love about that phrase, though. If you HAD to come up with a way to create an "infinite" supply of clients, how would that look? It's essentially what "hope marketing" would look like in a perfect world, and it's something we should always be striving for. Here's what I mean... Imagine being a freelancer whose work is so awesome that your clients can't stop talking about you. Every single client you work with refers someone else, then THEY refer someone else... and suddenly, you have more clients than you could possibly handle. Imagine doing such killer work that your clients do the marketing for you. That's the idea behind the "Viral Coefficient" of freelancing. Every happy client you have brings in another one, creating a chain reaction of a growing, "infinite", client base. Now, let's get real. Freelancers usually have a lot on their plates – marketing, sales, dealing with clients, admin stuff, and oh, actually doing the work. The reality of making this happen is incredibly hard but it's a goal worth putting a lot of thought and energy into. THAT'S what this new series is all about: How can you create such an incredible client experience that every single client refers at least one new client to you? That's the key to building a "viral" freelancing business. While "infinite clients" may be an impossible goal, it's worth every single ounce of time and effort you put into it. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Brian's journey to increased fitness ---Important January deadlines ---The balance between marketing and fulfillment ---Keeping your clients happy ---Knocking it out of the park for your clients ---The five phases of business ---Minding your boundaries ---Where to share your feedback and ideas for the podcast For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/291] (https://6figurecreative.com/291?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_291) ... Read more

16 Jan 2024

16 MINS

16:10

16 Jan 2024

#290

#290: Here Are 11 Big (And Small) Projects You Can Take On In 2024 To Bring In Big Money

January can be a slowwwwww season for a lot of freelancers. There are two approaches you can take if this is the case for you... Approach #1: Chill. Rest. Maybe complain a little. Play a lot of video games. Pout a lot. Approach #2: Realize that you're the captain of your ship, and you're the only one who can make 2024 your best year ever. You can view any "slow season" as a reason to complain, OR you can view it as a chance for major progress, rather than a setback. This is a perfect time for taking on big projects that can lead to both significant progress and (potentially) big money. In this week's episode of the 6 Figure Creative Podcast, I've got 11 projects for you to consider taking on to make this year your best ever... Think back to the biggest jumps in your business – whether it was when you were getting this thing off the ground, or you finally did that big thing you were scared sh*tless about... I'd be willing to be some of your biggest step changes in your business were the result of something big you took on. So if this is a slow season for you, don't waste it! This is a hidden opportunity to tackle those big projects. And with it comes big money. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why big projects are the best sources of income ---How to develop a new offer ---Helping your clients reach their dream outcome ---When to explore a new niche ---Client calls: why you need them ---RAISE YOUR RATES ---Using SOPs to make sure your business runs smoothly ---Staying top of mind with your network ---Using micro-gigs and upsells to grow your business ---Building your personal brand For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/290] (https://6figurecreative.com/290?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_290) ... Read more

09 Jan 2024

30 MINS

30:52

09 Jan 2024

#289

#289: How To Create A 2024 Plan For Your Business (That You'll ACTUALLY Use)

I've just returned from my year-end planning retreat in Chattanooga, TN, and DAMN it was awesome.  This is only my 3rd year doing this and considering I started my freelance journey back in 2009, I discovered this secret WAY too late... Planning is the secret sauce to having your best year ever (which 2023 was for my businesses). But here's the kicker – it doesn't have to be a mind-boggling, complex ordeal. A stupidly simple plan that you actually use is worth its weight in gold compared to some over-the-top, convoluted plan that just gathers dust. Let me share a little secret with you. I tend to be the king of "overcomplication". I'd plan so intensely that I'd lose sight of the actual execution. But I learned my lesson, and now I'm all about finding that sweet spot in planning – the perfect balance. As entrepreneurs, if we're just meandering through life without a plan, we're like driftwood caught in someone else's current. We get pulled INTO other people's plans, and that's not where we want to be. In the world of freelancing, hanging out with that person with the plan often means working for an agency at a fraction of the price they're charging their big-shot clients. You become the outsourced work, not the mastermind behind the project. That's probably not the dream you're chasing. So, what's the alternative? We're going to craft our annual plan. This plan is going to be your North Star, your guiding light, pointing you in a direction that's infinitely better than aimlessly drifting along. We're going to be intentional in our pursuits, not aimless wanderers. That's the goal here, and it's a goal worth pursuing with all your freelance might. So, let's create a plan that'll help 2024 be your best year ever, because remember... if you don't have a plan, you'll end up in someone else's plan. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why you need a plan ---Analyzing your income and expenses for a better business ---Viewing your lifestyle with a realistic approach ---Brain dumping the current year - and the future ---Setting goals realistically ---Looking at what areas of your business have room for growth ---Understanding when your goals are completed, and creating milestones ---Why you miss your goals ---Planning ahead for your whole year For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/289] (https://6figurecreative.com/289?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_289) ... Read more

02 Jan 2024

31 MINS

31:15

02 Jan 2024

#288

#288: He Turned His 6 Figure Freelance Design Business Into A 7 Figure Agency | With Michael Janda

Ever felt like you wanted to reach out to someone, but didn't want to bother them? Maybe it was an old acquaintance, a past client, or even a prospective client you've had your eyes on for a while... Creatives typically have this voice inside our heads that says "don't do that... you'll just be bothering them". Here's something that may surprise you: That voice is usually a lying, thieving, horrible bastard who's simply holding you back from getting what you want... What's even worse is that this voice is holding your prospective clients back from the rich experience of connecting with you and all of the value you could potentially bring to their lives. If you want proof, just look at your own life. How many other people are constantly reaching out to you, bothering you with offers you don't want? ---How many other freelancers are "bothering" you about hiring them? ---How many old acquaintances are reaching out to you about meeting up for dinner or drinks to catch up? ---Hell, how many potential love interests are sliding into your DMs? If you're like 99% of the rest of us, those things are rarely (if ever) happening. There's a better way to handle this stuff. It's something called The Rule of 7, and it's one of the keys to the incredible success of this week's guest. This week I got to speak to a "7-figure creative" who turned his 6-figure freelance business into a 7-figure agency (which he eventually sold). He's used the Rule of 7 ethically to get more clients, stay top of mind, build trust, win more projects, and ultimately, earn millions and millions of dollars through his creative business as a designer. This is what separates struggling creatives from multi-million dollar powerhouse guests like Mike Janda. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to prepare yourself for an economic downturn ---Positioning yourself as a freelancer to replace your day job ---Solving problems as a method of sales ---The rule of 7 ---The importance of meeting people in person ---Competition at the top levels of freelancing ---Understanding the market you're in to provide a valuable offer ---Balancing between big city freelancers and "cheap" options in other countries For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/288] (https://6figurecreative.com/288?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_288) ... Read more

26 Dec 2023

50 MINS

50:21

26 Dec 2023

#287

#287: The Follow Up Process That Helped Me Double My Freelance Business | The Sales Series

"This ONE trick doubled my income". As dumb and clickbaity as that sounds, it's kinda true. Here's what I mean... the last time I did a deep dive into my freelance business, I realized something interesting... ---More than 50% of my annual income was directly attributed to following up with leads who never replied. ---About 20% of my income came from following up 4 or more times in a row (with zero response). That's pretty wild if you ask me, especially considering that most freelancers only follow up one time (if that). Seriously, this is the "secret sauce" that could double your income if you're willing to commit and do it right. Now, I know what you're thinking – "Follow up? That's it?" It's way more powerful than it sounds because it's easy to do, yet so few actually do it. Even if you're currently making just $10k a year. Imagine turning that into $20k just by implementing what I teach you in this week's podcast episode. Today, we're diving deep into the world of short term and long-term follow-ups. But here's the best part – you can automate the heck out of this. Most good CRMs (Customer Relationship Management software, in case you're not in the know) can make this easy. In this episode you’ll discover: ---How to follow up with you leads in an appropriate way ---When to follow up ---Getting people to show up to your sales calls ---Scheduling follow-up calls before getting off the call you're on ---Cross-selling your other services to clients ---Getting unambiguous answers ---Brian's "Fibonacci Follow-up" process ---The advantage of "last chance" follow-ups For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/287] (https://6figurecreative.com/287?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_287) ... Read more

19 Dec 2023

33 MINS

33:01

19 Dec 2023

#286

#286: The SUPER Simple 4 Part Process For Sales Calls | The Sales Series

Here's one of the biggest traps I see freelancers fall into when it comes to sales calls: They think they're good at them, but they're really not... Why? Two reasons: 1. They've never actually tried to close anything other than friends/family/referrals (the easiest to close, but rarely enough to keep someone 100% booked solid) 2. They've never actually seen how a real sales call is done If you ever want to get to the point where you can stay booked solid, then you need to know how to get strangers to hire you. Understanding how to run a great sales call is a huge piece of that puzzle. The good news? You can just start super simple and then get more fancy as you learn more. This week's episode will walk you through a super simple four-part sales process. But here's the kicker: the big goal isn't just to make a sale... it's more about really getting to the heart of what the client needs. And when you get to the heart of what they need, it's way easier to actually close clients. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Starting simple: your first sales process ---The four key parts of a sales process: connect, diagnose, prescribe, collect ---What clients want vs. what they actually need to get from point A to point B ---Asking for money on the call to eliminate objections ---The most common objections ---Is it a disqualifier or an objection? ---Educating your clients to close the sale ---Why I no longer recommend proposals ---Next steps after listening to this episode For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/286] (https://6figurecreative.com/286?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_286) ... Read more

12 Dec 2023

38 MINS

38:36

12 Dec 2023

#285

#285: The Entire Freelance Sales Process From Beginning To End | The Sales Series

If you're a freelancer who's ever felt like sales is a foreign language, prepare to have your mind changed. First, it starts with understanding what sales really is. Sales is not just about persuasion... it's a process. In this new podcast series, I'm going to give you a comprehensive guide to the entire sales process for freelancers. Here's what's in store for this new Sales Series: ---Lead qualification (because let's face it, not every lead is a good fit) ---The all-important CRM setup ---How to do the discovery call (i.e. your first real dance with a potential client) ---The proposal process ---The art of follow-up (Yes, it's an art that balances persistence with respect) ---Closing the deal ---Cross-selling and upselling. ---And so much more... My goal with this series is to go deep into each topic, making sure you come out the other side not just understanding sales, but loving it. Why? Because mastering sales is not just about closing deals... it's about opening doors – to better projects, higher pay, and greater confidence in pricing your services. If you've ever felt like sales is your Achilles' heel, this might be your time to turn it into a secret weapon. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why you're missing out on clients - and you don't know it ---Sales leads vs marketing leads ---Why a leaky funnel is detrimental for your business ---Avoiding burnout by rejecting leads who are a bad fit ---Setting up your systems for success ---The important features to look for in a CRM ---Why business owners need to wear many hats ---Moving projects through stages in your CRM ---Opportunities and tracking pipeline value For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/285] (https://6figurecreative.com/285?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_285) ... Read more

05 Dec 2023

44 MINS

44:44

05 Dec 2023

#284

#284: Stuck With Low $$$ Projects? Here's How To Level Up To $50,000 Projects | With Ryan Koral (Rep...

The dark side of freelancing (that no one wants to discuss) is the wasteland of low-dollar "Fiverr Freelancers" charging bottom-dollar rates for "butt-in-seat" projects. Whether you're on Fiverr or not, you may still be trapped in this low-dollar wasteland that is essentially just another soulless day job you've created for yourself. These projects tend to be unfulfilling and draining, and you end up in a horrible financial place. This is what so many newbies and struggling creatives do, and many never make it out of this trap. I know this might sound painfully obvious, but you can't build a sustainable freelance business out of low-dollar, unfulfilling work where you're competing with hundreds (or thousands) of copycat competitors willing to work longer hours for less money than you. This is why I wanted to bring on Ryan Koral from Tell Studios to talk about how he successfully transitioned from $500 projects to regular $50,000 projects, eventually scaling his freelance business to over $1,000,000 per year. Ryan shared a ton of incredible info, including one of my new favorite strategies for closing high-dollar projects, so do not skip this week's interview. In this episode you’ll discover: ---Why Ryan pivoted from a full-time job earning $23,000/year to a becoming a full time freelancer ---How "yes mode" affects the start of your business ---Why you don't hire significant others for your business ---Dealing with employees who don't have the right expectation ---The benefits of delegating tasks to others ---Why your employees aren't the idiots you think they are ---Your value vs. how your clients value your work ---How to sell a low $$$ workshop that leads to a $50k project (with a 100% success rate).  For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/284] (https://6figurecreative.com/284?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_284) ... Read more

28 Nov 2023

1 HR 10 MINS

1:10:19

28 Nov 2023

#283

#283: The 3 Strategies For Staying Top-of-Mind & Getting More Gigs | The Lead Nurture Series

As we wrap up The Lead Generation series, you likely already know how important staying top-of-mind is. If you're not top-of-mind when the client is ready to hire someone, you won't get the gig. Period. So what are the 3 best strategies for nurturing your leads, and ultimately getting more gigs? That's what this week's episode is all about! In this episode you’ll discover: ---Nurturing leads the way you nurture a garden ---The three unofficial buckets of lead nurture strategies ---What being "known well" should mean to you ---Choosing a type of content for your content marketing ---Discovery content vs. nurture content ---Why paid ads are content marketing ---Using retargeting to nurture your leads ---The difference between a marketing lead and a sales lead ---Why you need to go all in on your chosen content area For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/283] (https://6figurecreative.com/283?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_283) ... Read more

21 Nov 2023

36 MINS

36:27

21 Nov 2023

#282

#282: Mapping Out The 7 Essential Stages Of The Complete Client Journey | The Lead Nurture Series

Want to know the biggest sticking point in a freelancer's career? It's when you run out of friends and family to sell your services to. The moment you move into the world of getting strangers to hire you is the moment you find out what you're made of. It's honestly a scary place to be, but most people don't have large enough personal networks to stay booked solid with friends and family alone. Enter The Complete Client Journey: this is the 7 stages you need to walk someone through as they move from stranger to repeat client. This is what most freelancers are missing. They haven't mapped out their own personal journey for their business. This week I have a special episode that walks you through mapping out each of the 7 stages for your own business. In this episode you’ll discover: ---The seven stages of the client journey ---Answering the right questions so people don't reject you ---Retargeting leads based on video views or other triggers ---Handling objections from your leads ---Looking at average annual client value vs. average project value ---The crucial key to following up with people ---How to get great referrals to grow your business ---Where to get your own template for this worksheet For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/282] (https://6figurecreative.com/282?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_282) ... Read more

14 Nov 2023

45 MINS

45:15

14 Nov 2023

#281

#281: The 4 Building Blocks of Turning Strangers Into Clients | The Lead Nurture Series

Ah, freelancing, my friend! Let's talk about the art of nurturing relations in this wild, wonderful, sometimes impossibly difficult world. You see, it's a bit like trying to find love on a dating app (which is where I met my wife 8 years ago). You don't just swipe right and immediately pop the big question, do you? No, no. It all begins with that elusive, deep connection. In the dating world, you chat, you laugh, and you get to know each other. You share stories, experiences, and maybe even a few secrets. It's a dance, a beautiful journey... and it can take years. You nurture romantic relationships because you know that without a real, genuine connection, no amount of swiping or proposing is going to land you a lifelong partner. And so it is with freelancing. You don't just send out proposals left and right, expecting clients to fall into your lap. You take time, effort, and energy to build relationships and connect with people. You listen to their needs, understand their pain points, and offer genuine solutions. Like a budding romance, it's about showing that you care. Just as you wouldn't propose on a first date, you don't rush into relationships with your clients. Instead, you showcase your expertise and your passion for what you do. You build trust, foster connections, and, over time, you become their go-to person. That is the true art of nurturing leads. This week marks the start of our three-part Lead Nurture Series. Listen now to learn The 4 Building Blocks of Turning Strangers Into Clients. Let's get started! For full show notes, visit  [https://6figurecreative.com/281] (https://6figurecreative.com/281?utm_source=podcast-app&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast_281) ... Read more

07 Nov 2023

31 MINS

31:44

07 Nov 2023