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JOIN US LIVE IN ORLANDO! Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando with BookThinkers ft. Nick Hutchison | January 14–17, 2027- www.cre8tiveconotr.com Why Most Entrepreneurs Fail to Scale The Benjamin Hardy Effect: Are You 2x-ing or Just Staying Busy? In our latest episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun and Dom Domasky break down the psychological barriers to success. Using the framework established by Dr. Benjamin Hardy, we explore why the "safety net" you’ve built is actually a trap. If you are a business owner in the Boston area, it’s time to stop managing time and start managing your future. The Science of Scaling suggests that if you want to reach a goal in 10 years, you should ask yourself why you can’t do it in six months. Dr. Benjamin Hardy emphasizes that "10x is easier than 2x," and on this episode, we apply that brutal honesty to our own businesses. Local Spotlight: Cre8tive Con Boston (July 13th) Why does location matter? Because proximity is power. We are bringing the heat to Boston, Massachusetts, for Cre8tive Con. Location: Boston, MA Date: July 13th Register: www.cre8tiveconotr.com Are you ready to burn the safety net? Register for Cre8tive Con Boston Here Are you busy, or are you actually moving the needle? Today, we’re calling out the "safety net" mentality that keeps entrepreneurs stuck in mediocrity. We discuss why a full calendar is often a mask for avoiding the one bold move that changes everything. The Dr. Benjamin Hardy Philosophy: We explore the concepts found in the work of Dr. Benjamin Hardy, specifically focusing on how to shorten your 10-year goals into 90-day sprints by raising your standards and narrowing your focus. Dropping the Floor: Why having a "fallback plan" is actually holding your business back. To reach the next level, you have to remove the option to fail. The Art of "No": Dom opens up about the struggle of being "too nice" and how unsolicited manuscripts and non-serious leads are the ultimate time-wasters. Peak Energy vs. Time Management: Why Julie believes color-coding your calendar is a crutch. We break down energy management for parents and busy professionals. Automation with Keap: How we are using Keap to eliminate manual tasks and maintain flow without the social media "time suck." Key Takeaways from Dr. Benjamin Hardy We are currently studying Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s principles on scaling and 10x growth. One of the biggest shifts we’ve made is realizing that Dr. Benjamin Hardy is right: you don't need more time; you need more skin in the game. By applying the "Science of Scaling," we are learning to stop the "inch-by-inch" growth and start taking exponential leaps. Connect with Your Hosts Dom Domasky: Founder of Motivation Champs. www.motivationchamps.com Julie Lokun: Founder of Big Better Brand. www.bigbetterbrand.com Cre8tive Con FAQs What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is the premier gathering for creative entrepreneurs, authors, and business leaders looking to scale their brands. It’s an immersive experience focused on execution over theory. When and where is the next event? We are heading to Boston! Join us on July 13th. You can grab tickets at www.cre8tiveconotr.com. Is this event for beginners or established business owners? Both! Whether you are just starting out or looking to apply Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s scaling principles to a 7-figure business, the strategies shared in Boston will help you "drop the floor" and level up. Will Julie and Dom be there in person? Absolutely. We’ll be leading sessions, recording live, and networking with all of you. See you in Boston! Julie Lokun, JD | Founder of Big Better Brand Julie Lokun is a powerhouse entrepreneur, author, and the visionary founder of Big Better Brand. With a legal background and a shark-like instinct for branding, Julie specializes in helping entrepreneurs find their "why" and execute it with ruthless precision. As a devotee of Dr. Benjamin Hardy’s "10x" methodology, she is known for her "drop the floor" approach—eliminating the safety nets that keep business owners playing small. Julie is the lead architect behind Cre8tive Con, bringing her high-octane energy to the Boston stage on July 13th. When she isn't coaching elite brands or hosting the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, she is managing a household of four boys and proving that "work-life balance" is less about time management and more about energy management. Website: www.bigbetterbrand.com Expertise: Brand Identity, Strategic Scaling, Podcast Growth. Dominick Domasky | Founder of Motivation Champs Dominick Domasky is a professional "YES" man turned "NO" strategist, author, and the founder of Motivation Champs. After years of navigating the highs and lows of the sales world, Dom has dedicated his career to sharing the stories of the "underdogs" and helping people turn their failures into fuel. Through his work with Dr. Benjamin Hardy's scaling principles, Dom focuses on "raising the floor" by helping entrepreneurs eliminate the low-level tasks that drain their income-generating potential. As a publisher and media strategist, Dom helps authors and speakers get their message to the masses without the "fluff." He is the co-host of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and will be co-leading the charge at Cre8tive Con in Boston this July. Dom’s mission is simple: to help you stop lying to yourself about your progress and start executing like a champion. Website: www.motivationchamps.com Expertise: Storytelling, Motivational Speaking, Publishing, Sales Strategy. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Us Live in Orlando! Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando with BookThinkers ft. Nick Hutchison | January 14–17, 2027 www.cre8tiveconotr.com What happens when you sign your life away for a billion years and wake up two decades later realizing you have to walk away from everything? Check out more about Anne and her new book- Escape to Joy | A Memoir by Anne Gollert Hill Anne Gollert Hill joined Scientology in 1988 and rose into the Sea Org, the organization’s most devoted inner circle. She worked at the highest levels, in the orbit of leader David Miscavige and its most famous faces, including Tom Cruise. For 14 years she wrote the official messaging, 18 hours a day, seven days a week. Then in 2007 she did the one thing she’d been trained to fear most. She left with just the clothes on her back. Escaping was only chapter one. Fresh off her viral appearance on The Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg Show, Anne joins Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky on The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. They talk about how she rebuilt her life from zero, why she started TikTok at 65, and how she turned the hardest chapter of her life into a platform, a purpose, and a brand. Her account has passed 1.3 million views in six months. Her message is simple and hard-won: no matter what you’ve been through, you deserve joy. In this episode: What really drew a smart, accomplished woman into Scientology, and why the early “tools” worked Life inside the Sea Org: the billion-year contract, the production pressure, and why members were told to call Tom Cruise “sir” How Scientology’s “conditions” are designed to stamp out doubt The moment Anne decided: “I’ve wasted 20 years of my life, but I’m not gonna waste 21” Why she waited 18 years to tell her story publicly, and why healing had to come first The skills a high-control group accidentally taught her about content creation How she went from zero to a Jenny McCarthy invite in about a month on TikTok Social media, algorithms, and mind control: where the parallels are real Jules Rules: relationship red flags (love bombing, “just joking” insults, isolation, gossip, and gaslighting) Her advice for anyone stuck in a business, relationship, or group they can’t see a way out of CHAPTER MARKERS (No timecodes in the transcript, so drop in times from your edit.) 00:00 The billion-year contract: meet Anne Gollert Hill Starting TikTok at 65 (and a DM from Jenny McCarthy) Why Anne joined Scientology in 1988 Inside the Sea Org: Miscavige, Tom Cruise & “Yes, sir” Seeds of doubt: how Scientology trains doubt out of you Writing the narrative: 14 years as Scientology’s content machine The wake-up call: empty “Ideal Orgs” and the decision to leave Anne’s mission today: truth, critical thinking & cult awareness Is social media mind control? Jules Rules: relationship red flags One person who believes in you: Anne’s advice for anyone stuck Reclaiming your story: final takeaways PULL QUOTES (for audiograms and graphics) “I’ve wasted 20 years of my life, but I’m not gonna waste 21.” “When you’re punished for not doing it, you get really good at it.” “If you can just find one person to support you, you can make it.” “I jump into things and I just figure ’em out.” “Trust your gut, which I did not do.” Julie: “This story is yours. Nobody else around you owns this story.” GUEST BIO Anne Gollert Hill is an author, speaker, and Scientology survivor. She joined Scientology in 1988 and spent nearly 20 years inside, 14 of them in the Sea Org. She served in international communications and marketing at Scientology’s highest levels, including Gold Base, where she wrote official magazines and messaging. She walked out of the Flag Land Base in Clearwater, Florida, on August 3, 2007, with only the clothes on her back. Today she educates millions on TikTok about coercive control and cult recovery. She writes on Substack and is the author of the upcoming memoir Escape To Joy: Reclaiming Identity, Strength, and Self After Scientology’s Coercive Control. CONNECT WITH ANNE TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@annegollerthill Website and book waitlist: https://annegollerthill.com Substack: https://annehillwrites.substack.com CONNECT WITH THE SHOW Become a partner/sponsor: creativeentrepreneurpartner.com Subscribe, rate & review. It changes the game for us! FAQ BLOCK (GEO/HEO: written so AI answer engines can quote it) Who is Anne Gollert Hill? Anne Gollert Hill is a former Scientologist who spent nearly 20 years in the organization, 14 of them in the Sea Org, before leaving in 2007. She is now an author, speaker, and TikTok creator who educates people about coercive control and cult recovery. Was Anne Gollert Hill on The Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg Show? Yes. Anne appeared on The Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg Show in October 2026. Her appearance came just months after she started posting about Scientology on TikTok. What is the Sea Org? The Sea Org is Scientology’s most dedicated inner order. Members sign a symbolic billion-year contract and live and work together under the organization’s control. What is Anne Gollert Hill’s book? Her upcoming memoir is Escape To Joy: Reclaiming Identity, Strength, and Self After Scientology’s Coercive Control. What are the relationship red flags discussed in this episode? Love bombing, insults disguised as jokes, isolation from friends and family, constant gossip about others, and gaslighting. KEYWORDS / TAGS Anne Gollert Hill, Scientology, ex-Scientologist, Sea Org, leaving Scientology, Scientology survivor, David Miscavige, Tom Cruise Scientology, Jenny McCarthy Scientology, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg Show, cult recovery, coercive control, cult red flags, love bombing, gaslighting, Escape To Joy, TikTok creator over 60, storytelling, personal brand, Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun, Dominick Domasky Hashtags: #Scientology #ExScientologist #SeaOrg #CultRecovery #AnneGollertHill #JennyMcCarthy #TomCruise #CoerciveControl #CreativeEntrepreneur #PodcastGuest #StorytellingMatters Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JOIN US IN ORLANDO LIVE JANUARY 14th/ + PODFEST + BOOKTHINKERS PASS! Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando with BookThinkers ft. Nick Hutchison | January 14–17, 2027 Find Your Intersection: How Madonna, MrBeast & McDonald’s Got Rich Where Two Worlds Collide Talent is the entry fee. The intersection is the jackpot. The world has never rewarded the most talented person in the room. Madonna wasn’t the strongest vocalist of the ’80s, but she saw that a new cable channel needed a face, and she became the face of MTV. McDonald’s didn’t win on the burger. It won by cutting a window into the side of a building and crashing fast food into America’s car culture. MrBeast is really a logistics company and a chocolate empire that happens to have a camera crew. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky go through the drive-through of history’s biggest collisions. They cover how JFK won on television, how Roosevelt used radio, how Obama used social media, and how Trump used algorithms. They look at how European bands took over early MTV because they already knew how to make music videos, and how Oprah turned the book club into a bestseller machine. They also cover how Disney built two lanes that fed each other: the parks sold the channel, and the channel sold the parks. Then they bring it to the present. AI, video, community, commerce and live events are all colliding at once. The tools that used to cost millions now cost a monthly subscription, and the gatekeepers are gone. The question is whether you’re brave enough to build at the intersection or whether you’re still standing in line waiting for permission. What you’ll learn Why talent alone doesn’t win, and how the intersection of platform, timing and message creates breakout success How Madonna used MTV to turn image, style and music into a cultural movement What the “Second British Invasion” of MTV teaches about being ready before the platform needs you How political campaigns have always won at media intersections, from radio and TV to social media and algorithms Why youth culture drives the next platform shift, and why you should ask your kids where they consume content The AI backlash: why audiences are growing tired of AI-generated content, and how to use AI as a tool instead of a crutch Why chasing trends means chasing your tail, and why the better move is to go where the eyes already are The “Two Lanes” strategy: how Disney, and you, can run two platforms that feed each other Why free isn’t a business model: start where you are, then invest when it’s time to go all in How to find your own collision, the two things you do that nobody has ever combined Memorable quotes “Talent is the entry fee. The intersection is the jackpot.” — Julie Lokun “If you’re chasing trends, you’ll be chasing your tail your whole life.” — Dominick Domasky “There are no gatekeepers standing between you and your drive-through window.” — Julie Lokun “Eventually you gotta push record. You can’t live in a world of paralysis by analysis.” — Dominick Domasky “Own your ecosystem. Don’t rent your audience.” — Julie Lokun Your homework Before you close this episode, write down two things you do that nobody has ever combined. Then share your collision in the comments or in our Facebook community. Julie and Dom want to see what you’re building. If this episode sparked something, share it with one entrepreneur who is still waiting for permission. Ready to build at the intersection? This is exactly what we do at Cre8tive Con: podcasts, books, community, live events and AI all in one room, so you can find your intersection and own your ecosystem. Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando, January 14, 2027. Join us during Podfest week for Monetize Your Message, a hands-on session for entrepreneurs, podcasters, authors and speakers who are ready to turn their voice into revenue. Seats are limited. Register at www.cre8tiveconotr.com Mentioned in this episode Madonna and the rise of MTV Sting on the SmartLess podcast (on early music videos and on AI music) MrBeast, Logan Paul, Jake Paul and Curry Barker McDonald’s and the drive-through window JFK vs. Nixon, FDR’s radio addresses, and Obama’s and Trump’s digital campaigns The Gutenberg printing press, Henry Ford, I Love Lucy, and Oprah’s Book Club Walt Disney, George Lucas and the Star Wars merchandising deal Air Jordans and the meeting of sports and pop culture John Lee, a British entrepreneur, on using AI to clone himself BookTok, TikTok (formerly Musical.ly) and YouTube Who this episode is for This episode is for entrepreneurs, podcasters, authors, coaches, speakers and creators who are tired of chasing trends and want a lasting strategy for growth. It also suits anyone wondering how to use AI, YouTube or live events without losing their voice, and anyone ready to stop waiting for permission. If you’re coming to Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando, start here. FAQs What is an “intersection” in business? It’s the point where two forces collide, such as a new platform and a ready message, or a product and a cultural shift. It creates outsized growth that talent alone can’t. Should entrepreneurs follow trends? Julie and Dom say no. Chasing trends keeps you reactive. The better move is to know where your audience’s attention is and bring your passion there. Is AI content hurting brands? Audience fatigue with AI-generated content is growing. AI works best as a tool that supports real expertise, not as a replacement for it. What is the “two lanes” strategy? You run two platforms that feed each other, such as a podcast and a book, or YouTube and a Facebook community. Disney’s parks and TV channel are the classic example. About your hosts Julie Lokun, JD, is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist and brand consultant. She founded The Mediacasters and co-founded Cre8tive Con and Dragonfly Podcast Academy. She also co-hosts Get Obsessed and writes for Entrepreneur and MindValley. Dominick Domasky is CEO of Media Champs Publishing and COO of Cre8tive Con. He is a storyteller, publisher and lifelong believer in turning the camera around. Remember: keep building and keep creating. Tags intersection strategy, entrepreneur podcast, personal branding, Madonna MTV, MrBeast business model, McDonald’s drive-through, AI content backlash, AI for entrepreneurs, YouTube growth strategy, content creation, go viral, own your ecosystem, podcast and book strategy, Disney business model, creator economy, Cre8tive Con, Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando, Podfest 2027, monetize your message, Julie Lokun, Dominick Domasky, Creative Entrepreneur Podcast Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is your "personal brand" holding you back? On this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, co-host Dominick Domasky, CEO of Media Champs Publishing and COO of Cre8tive Con, holds down the mic while Julie Lokun, JD, co-founder of Cre8tive Con, is out on assignment. His guest is Dan Scott, a musician since age seven, an attorney, and co-founder of Spotlight, an advisory firm that helps creatives align their work, money, and purpose. Dan trained in the private client practice at Sullivan & Cromwell, one of the most prestigious law firms in the world, where he planned estates and business structures for affluent families. He saw a gap: wealthy families got sophisticated planning, and artists didn't. He spent more than a decade becoming a thought leader in legacy planning for artists, drawing on high-profile estate battles like those of Prince and Tom Petty. That work led him to launch Spotlight, which he calls "the co-CEO of your life" for creatives. Dan is also the author of The Experience of Financial Freedom. Connect with Dan Scott Dan Scott | LinkedIn and Spotlight Advisory Group | Helping Creatives Thrive | Management for Creatives Join Us in Orlando, January 14th! Ready to turn your purpose into profit, just like Dan teaches? Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando is coming on January 14, 2027, during Podfest week. Monetize Your Message is an intimate, high-impact experience for entrepreneurs, podcasters, authors, and speakers who are ready to turn their voice into revenue. Seats are limited. Save your spot at www.cre8tiveconotr.com. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The four types of assets every creative owns: financial, social, human, and creative capital How copyright, LLCs, corporations, and trusts protect your creative work and IP The difference between estate planning and legacy planning, and why it matters for artists and entrepreneurs Why creatives can run a business but often shouldn't, and how to delegate wisely Why you should build your brand before your product Why "personal branding" is a myth: brands are defined by their limits, and people thrive on their multitudes The math behind 10,000 true fans: how $25 a year from loyal supporters beats 10 million casual followers How to escape the financial hamster wheel and redefine success as "enough," not "more" What punk rock economics means, and why changing the system from the inside out is the most effective rebellion Memorable Quotes: "People are not brands." – Dan Scott "Nobody actually wants money. They want what they think money can provide." – Dan Scott "Numbers don't matter, impact does." – Dan Scott "If you don't know why the brand is, you probably don't know why you are." – Dan Scott Who This Episode Is For: Musicians, authors, podcasters, artists, coaches, speakers, and creative entrepreneurs. It's also for anyone who has a great idea but hasn't yet defined the why behind it. Where Creatives Connect: Cre8tive Con This conversation captures the spirit of Cre8tive Con, the Chicago-based entrepreneurship conference that helps founders, creatives, and thought leaders amplify their message and own their ecosystem instead of renting their audience. Catch us on the road at Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando on January 14th, and stay tuned for Cre8tive Con 2027 in Chicago. Meet the Hosts: Julie Lokun, JD is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, founder of The Mediacasters, and co-founder of Cre8tive Con. Dominick Domasky is CEO of Media Champs Publishing and COO of Cre8tive Con. FAQs What does Dan Scott mean by "people are not brands"? Brands win by being one clearly defined thing, while humans are complex and multifaceted. Rather than becoming a brand, Dan advises turning some aspect of your purpose into a brand that communicates through commerce. How can creative entrepreneurs protect their intellectual property and legacy? Dan recommends giving your work a legal structure the law recognizes, such as copyright, LLCs, corporations, and trusts. He also advises separating the control and administration of your assets from their economic benefit, so your vision outlives you. What is punk rock economics? It's Dan Scott's philosophy of treating money as a tool, not a goal. You learn the rules of the financial "game" so it doesn't defeat you, but you never adopt its values as your measure of success. What is the difference between estate planning and legacy planning? An estate is your property and financial assets. A legacy is the purpose your life served. Dan's work helps creatives live the legacy they want to leave. Where can I meet the hosts of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast in person? Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky are hosting Cre8tive Con OTR in Orlando on January 14, 2027, during Podfest week. They also host the flagship Cre8tive Con conference in Chicago. Love the show? Share, subscribe, and leave a review. Julie reads every one! Then come say hi in person at Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando. Tags: creative entrepreneur podcast, personal branding, legacy planning for artists, intellectual property for creatives, estate planning for musicians, financial freedom, creator economy, 1000 true fans, brand strategy, purpose-driven business, monetize your message, Dan Scott, Spotlight, Dominick Domasky, Julie Lokun, Cre8tive Con, Cre8tive Con OTR, Orlando entrepreneur event, Podfest 2027, entrepreneurship podcast, business podcast Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the best marketing strategy you'll ever use is simply being yourself? On this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun, JD and Dominick Domasky sit down with Mike Ashabraner, known as The Redneck Connecktor, the Louisville, Kentucky entrepreneur behind the Hounds of Business community. Mike is funny, blunt, and unapologetically real, and he's built something most entrepreneurs only talk about: a business ecosystem where people from every walk of life, every political stripe, and every stage of business actually want to show up for each other. Mike doesn't chase fish. He builds lighthouses. And in this conversation, he breaks down exactly how heart-centered entrepreneurs can grow a business without fast-food tactics, forced sales calls, or pretending to be someone they're not. What You'll Learn Why inner work is a business skill. Mike explains how doing your own inner work "removes the buttons" other people push, so you stop reacting to difficult personalities and start seeing the mask instead of the person. That shift changes how you show up in every room. The difference between connection and flattery. Flattery says you want something. Mike shares how genuine observation, like telling a stranger they seem to have fond memories of a place, opens doors that pitching never will. His warning: if you're performing to get money, it will expose you. The Costco sausage lesson. A 20-minute conversation with a sample lady (and five sausages he never planned to buy) became the blueprint for how Hounds of Business markets: let people test drive and sample what you do instead of persuading them. Why Hounds of Business is an ecosystem, not a networking group. It's not BNI, not an engagement pod, and not a media network. Mike describes it as a pack for "strays," the entrepreneurs who already move with heart but haven't found their people yet. Building lighthouses instead of buying lead gen. Too many entrepreneurs spend thousands on systems that promise everything because they lack the clarity to make any marketing work. Mike and Steve Woodruff, the "king of clarity," are tackling that problem head-on with clarity workshops. Who the Hounds serve. Newer founders who don't want to waste four years of time, money, and heart, and seasoned pros who succeeded faster than expected and now face a pile of new challenges. Members range from a Hollywood stuntman turned soul guide to a highly accredited wealth advisor spreading kindness worldwide. The business must fit the person carrying it. Borrowing Bruce Lee's "be like water" idea, Mike argues you should be the same person 24/7, define success on your own terms, and recognize that some tactics are either wrong for you or right at the wrong time. Jules Rules: Best Things to Do Outdoors In honor of Mike from Kentucky, Julie weighs in on the best outdoor activities. The crew lands on bonfires, pig roasts, hiking, kayaking, sun tanning, outdoor gun ranges, and camping (with glamping as Julie's preferred compromise), plus a very honest conversation about Julie's closet redneck and why the slower pace of the South lets her breathe. Memorable Quotes "How the hell can somebody push a button that you took off?" — Mike Ashabraner "Flattering says I want something." — Mike Ashabraner "Opportunity won't plop its ass on the couch next to you." — Mike Ashabraner "Mike doesn't chase fish. He is building lighthouses." — Julie Lokun Connect with Mike Ashabraner and Hounds of Business The Redneck Financial Coach (Website): redneckfinancialcoach.com Mike Ashabraner on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/redneck1 Hounds of Business on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hounds-of-business Hounds of Business on YouTube: youtube.com/@HoundsOfBusiness Mike's advice for reaching out: just say, "Hey Mike, you said reach out." You don't have to know what to say. The Hounds will take it from there. About Your Hosts Julie Lokun, JD is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant whose shows rank in the top 0.05% globally on Listen Notes and top 5 on Apple Podcasts weekly. She is the founder of The Mediacasters LLC, co-founder of Dragonfly Cre8tions LLC, Dragonfly Podcast Academy, and Cre8tive Con, and a contributing writer for Entrepreneur Magazine and MindValley. Her guiding philosophy: own your ecosystem, don't rent your audience. Connect with Julie: www.julielokunconsulting.com Dominick Domasky is the Founder of Motivation Champs Media, a bestselling author, speaker, co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, and co-founder of Cre8tive Con. He brings the energy, the community, and the conviction that business does not have to be boring. Connect with Dominick: www.motivationchamps.com About The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is where entrepreneurs, authors, and creative disruptors come to build something extraordinary, out loud. Hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, the show ranks in the top 0.05% of podcasts globally and consistently lands in the top 5 on Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe: Creative Entrepreneur on Apple Podcasts If you love this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. That is the fuel for our fire. Join Us Live: Cre8tive Con Mike builds lighthouses. Cre8tive Con is where you build yours, in person. Co-founded by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, Cre8tive Con brings entrepreneurs, podcasters, authors, and speakers into the room to own their ecosystem instead of renting their audience. Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando — January 2027, during Podfest week. Theme: Monetize Your Message. Cre8tive Con 2027 — Chicago, the flagship event. Tickets and info: www.cre8tivecon.com On The Road tour: www.cre8tiveconotr.com Take the Own Your Ecosystem assessment: www.cre8tivepower.com Join the community: Cre8tive Con Facebook Group Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is podcasting dying? New show launches have cratered since the 2020 boom, but 58% of Americans now listen monthly, and podcast ad revenue hit $2.9 billion, up 18%. Fewer shows, more listening, more money. This isn't a graveyard. It's a wide-open runway. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun, JD, and Dominick Domasky sit down with Nick Pavlidis, CEO of PodFest Expo, former New York big-law attorney, and ghostwriter of 100+ books, including seven Wall Street Journal and eight USA Today bestsellers. Nick breaks down why podcasting has shifted from a broadcast channel to a community engagement channel, and why the shows winning in 2026 treat a podcast as a product, not promotion. Nick's story is a masterclass in strategic career change. A 13-year attorney on the partnership track, he negotiated a predictable schedule, made a lateral move, signed his first ghostwriting client in December 2015, and left law in 2016. His parents, who just marked 50 years running their sandwich shop, came around once his book was translated into 21 languages. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why "pod fade" kills most shows, and what the survivors do differently The P-I-G-S framework: prospects, influencers, gatekeepers, and support, the four groups your content should build relationships with Why writing the wrong book (or launching the wrong podcast) is worse than failing How Nick left a corner-office law career with a plan, not a leap The three-year momentum rule every new business needs His no-business-card rule for turning event conversations into booked meetings Are panels dead? How to run one that delivers value How AI is reshaping podcasting, ghostwriting, and publishing JULES RULES: What makes an event unforgettable? Food, drumlines, and a follow-up on the calendar before you leave the hallway. KEY TAKEAWAY Start with the end in mind. Decide who you need in your corner three years from now, then create content that earns those relationships. The best shows invite people into your world and advocate for your listener. MEET THE GUEST Nick Pavlidis, CEO, PodFest Expo: https://podfestexpo.com Authority Ghostwriting: https://authorityghostwriting.com MEET YOUR HOSTS Julie Lokun, JD, media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant: https://julielokunconsulting.com Dominick Domasky, bestselling author, publisher, and founder of Motivation Champs: https://motivationchamps.com JOIN US LIVE AT CRE8TIVE CON Cre8tive Con is the traveling conference for podcasters, authors, speakers, and creative entrepreneurs. Cre8tive Con 2027 is coming to Chicago, and Cre8tive Con OTR lands in Orlando on January 17, 2027, as we head to PodFest. Find your stop: https://cre8tivecon.com Own your ecosystem, don't rent your audience: https://cre8tivepower.com More episodes: https://cre8tiveconpod.com FAQ Is podcasting still worth starting in 2026? Yes. Monthly listening is at an all-time high and ad revenue is climbing, while far fewer new shows are launching. That means less competition for your audience. What is PodFest Expo? PodFest is a podcasting conference in Orlando for independent creators, led by CEO Nick Pavlidis. How do you turn a podcast into a business? Build it around a clear goal, invite guests your audience needs, and turn listeners into a community. Will AI replace ghostwriters? Nick uses AI for ideation and checking work, but says high-end clients pay for strategic guidance, not words. TOPICS: podcast growth, podcast monetization, PodFest Expo Orlando, ghostwriting, book marketing, event networking, personal branding SUBSCRIBE Follow, rate, and review The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Keep creating. #podcasting #PodFest #NickPavlidis #CreativeEntrepreneur #Cre8tiveCon #podcastgrowth #ghostwriting #entrepreneurship #JulieLokun #DominickDomasky Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Check out our LIVE events and meet us all in person! www.cre8tivecon.com This is an encore of one of the most talked-about conversations in the feed — a return visit with Jason Duncan, the man who went from an unemployed schoolteacher to building a multimillion-dollar company, then rebuilt his entire philosophy around what he calls "exit without exiting." Julie and Dominick sit down with the Cre8tive Con keynote favorite to unpack why exit strategy isn't a someday conversation — it's a Day One conversation. What We Cover: The origin of "The Real Jason Duncan" personal brand — and how a branding consult reshaped his entire public identity Spotting "fake" in a culture of contrived authenticity — and why Jason has zero tolerance for it The generational shift from latchkey resilience to "lawnmower parenting" — and how the same instinct shows up in how founders build (and over-protect) their businesses The $2 million wake-up call: how a partnership divorce exposed that Jason's business was built entirely around him — and why that's a warning sign for every founder Hero Syndrome — Jason's term for the ego trap that keeps founders indispensable, and why "saving the day" is actually selfish, not noble The XOS Methodology: building a three-tier org chart (Delivery Team, Support Squad, A-Team) so decisions — not just tasks — can be delegated Why systems and automation fail if they're layered onto a business before the org chart is fixed Jules Rules segment: Real or Illusion? — Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce, follower counts and "contrived authenticity," Kim Kardashian's A-list arc, and Will Smith's redemption era Why Cre8tive Con refuses to livestream — and how in-person experience builds real authority instead of purchased perception Jason's closing takeaway: business ownership isn't about owning the business — it's about the business funding the life you actually want to live Memorable Quotes: "The purpose of business ownership is not to own the business. It's so that the business can provide the lifestyle for you and your family that you actually want to live." — Jason Duncan "Awareness is the key to recovery." — Jason Duncan, on Hero Syndrome "Exiting your business isn't about selling it. It's about freeing yourself from the business." — Julie Lokun Connect with Jason Duncan: Search "The Real Jason Duncan" anywhere — Instagram, LinkedIn, ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Grok, NotebookLM, or Google. Subscribe to his newsletter, What's Real, every Wednesday morning. This Episode is Sponsored by Keap — sales and marketing automation built for small businesses. Capture leads, follow up instantly, and put growth on autopilot. keap.com/creative Loved this episode? Rate, review, and subscribe to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, and share it with a founder who needs to hear this before they build their own prison. Cre8tive Con — FAQs What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is a live business and creator conference built around the Own Your Ecosystem framework — an 8-pillar system that helps entrepreneurs build owned audiences, content, and revenue instead of depending on rented platforms. Who founded Cre8tive Con? Dominick Domasky and Julie Lokun, co-hosts of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, founded and run Cre8tive Con. Is Cre8tive Con livestreamed or available on-demand? No. Cre8tive Con is intentionally in-person only. The founders believe real authority is built through live, unfiltered experiences — not streamed or purchased engagement. What is the Own Your Ecosystem framework? It's an 8-pillar system for auditing and building a business's owned assets — audience, content, community, and revenue — rather than relying on rented platforms or borrowed attention. Does Cre8tive Con only happen in one city? No. In addition to the flagship event, Cre8tive Con runs a traveling series called Cre8tive Con OTR (On the Road), bringing the framework to cities across the country, including past stops like Boston. Who typically speaks at Cre8tive Con? Speakers are selected based on referral and real-world credibility rather than social media following — past keynotes include exit-planning expert and TEDx speaker Jason Duncan. Who should attend Cre8tive Con? Founders, podcasters, coaches, and service-based entrepreneurs who've outgrown hustle-based growth and want to build systems, audiences, and businesses that don't depend entirely on them to function. What do attendees leave with? A completed ecosystem assessment, a scored framework identifying growth priorities, and direct access to a peer network and speaker community focused on ownership over rented attention. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most business owners think YouTube is just for influencers and vloggers. Aleric Heck, founder of AdOutreach, has spent the last 10 years proving otherwise — helping companies turn video content into a real, scalable revenue engine. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with Aleric to unpack: How a high school YouTube channel turned into an 8-figure ad agency The 3-part content Venn diagram that separates viral videos from client-converting videos The "hook, educate, call-to-action" framework behind high-performing YouTube ads Why thumbnails, titles, and your first 30 seconds make or break a video's performance What in-feed ads are — and how just $5–$10/day can grow your channel organically Why private equity firms are buying YouTube channels for millions (and what that means for your business) Inside Aleric's new book, Video Authority: The Art and Science of Converting Viewers Into Clients Featured Guest: Aleric Heck Aleric Heck is the founder and CEO of AdOutreach, a video and YouTube ads agency that has helped clients generate over $100 million in revenue. He got his start growing one of YouTube's largest app-review channels to half a million subscribers before pivoting to teach businesses how to convert viewers into paying clients through YouTube ads, organic strategy, and cross-platform video marketing. He's also the creator of ThumbnailCreator.com, an AI-powered thumbnail generation tool, and the author of the new book: Video Authority: The Art and Science of Converting Viewers Into Clients Connect with Aleric Heck: Website: adoutreach.com Book: Video Authority YouTube: @AlericHeckYT Instagram: @alericheck LinkedIn: Aleric Heck Key Takeaways: How to Make Money on YouTube in 2026 1. Start With the End in Mind Views don't pay the bills — clients do. Aleric's core philosophy is that business owners should design content to convert, not just to rack up views or go viral. 2. The Content Venn Diagram The best-performing YouTube videos sit at the intersection of three things: Your expertise and passion What your ideal client is actually searching for What's trending or timely (so the algorithm and audience both respond) 3. The Ad Framework: Hook, Educate, Call to Action Every high-converting YouTube ad follows the same three-beat structure — grab attention, deliver real value, then give a clear next step. 4. Title, Thumbnail, and First 30 Seconds Are Everything Alignment between these three elements determines whether a viewer clicks — and whether they stay. 5. In-Feed Ads Are the Underused Growth Lever Unlike traditional YouTube ads (built for direct leads), in-feed ads appear in search results and suggested videos for as little as $5–$10/day, helping already-strong organic content reach more people. 6. YouTube Is an Owned Asset Private equity firms are actively buying YouTube channels and equity stakes in them — something that doesn't happen with Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook content. A YouTube channel compounds in value over time because of its built-in search algorithm. Featured Links & Resources The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, co-hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky Julie Lokun — brand & podcast strategy consulting: bigbetterbrand.com Dominick Domasky — motivation, mindset, and momentum coaching: motivationchamps.com Live events for creative entrepreneurs: Cre8tive Con Aleric Heck's book: Video Authority AI thumbnail tool: ThumbnailCreator.com Aleric Heck's agency: AdOutreach.com Frequently Asked Questions Can you actually make money on YouTube, or is it just for influencers? Yes — YouTube can generate real, scalable business revenue beyond influencer sponsorships. Aleric Heck's agency, AdOutreach, has helped businesses generate over $100 million using YouTube ads and organic video strategy focused on converting viewers into paying clients, not just chasing views. What is the hook, educate, call-to-action framework? It's a three-part structure for high-converting YouTube ads: hook the viewer's attention, educate them with real value, and close with a clear call to action that drives them to take the next step. What are in-feed YouTube ads? In-feed ads are ads that appear in YouTube search results or suggested videos, distinct from traditional in-stream ads. They can cost as little as $5–$10 a day and are used to accelerate the growth of already-strong organic content. Why are private equity firms buying YouTube channels? Because a YouTube channel is a compounding, ownable asset — videos keep generating views (and revenue) years after publishing, unlike short-lived content on platforms like TikTok or Instagram. What is Aleric Heck's book about? Video Authority: The Art and Science of Converting Viewers Into Clients teaches coaches, consultants, and service-based business owners how to use video strategically to attract and convert ideal clients — rather than simply grow subscriber counts. Listen to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and everywhere you get your podcasts. DON'T FORGET TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR LIVE EVENTS: www.cre8tivecon.com Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leave Us A Review on Apple: Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth and Trending News - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Learn About Alexa Bigwarfe's STAGES AND PAGES- Stages and Pages v. 2 -- Learn About Conner Tighe on LINKEDIN- Conner Tighe | LinkedIn Learn About Tiffany Jones- http://tiffanyjoneseducation.com/ You didn't tune in for an interview this time — you tuned in for something better: proof that this show is actually landing. In this mini-sode, Julie steps away from the guest chair to read three reviews that stopped her in her tracks — from Alexa Bigwarfe, Conner Tighe, and Tiffany Jones — and to make you an offer most podcasts won't: leave a review, and you might hear your own words read back to you on the show. Loyal fans get the perks. It's that simple. In this episode: Why entrepreneurship is lonely — and why community is the antidote Three listener reviews that capture exactly what this show is trying to do How to get your review read on-air (and the perks that come with it) Where to leave your rating and review right now Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Learn More About Char Murphy and Follow Mission Hope on LinkedIn  Learn More about Julie and Dom and their live events: www.cre8tivecon.com This episode opens with a data-driven look at the AI infrastructure boom — a $500 billion NVIDIA-backed bet involving Apollo, BlackRock, Blackstone, Brookfield, and Goldman Sachs — and the growing local pushback against AI data centers across the U.S. From there, the conversation pivots to a bigger question: as AI content floods every platform, is the real business opportunity in human storytelling? Guest Char Murphy — founder of Mission Hope and BelieveInspire, retired attorney, and eight-time #1 bestselling author — joins Julie and Dominick to unpack: How to spot AI-generated manuscripts (hint: watch the cadence) Why she asks authors point-blank, "Did you write this?" The line between using AI as a tool (brainstorming, outlining, brand-building) versus letting it write your story How writing and publishing personal stories is a healing, transformative process Her own journey surviving breast cancer four times, near-blindness, and rebuilding her identity after losing her law career Practical advice for entrepreneurs who want to write a book or start a podcast but feel stuck The episode closes with an AI-generated "Char Murphy" outro — a live experiment testing whether AI can actually capture a real person's voice and heart (spoiler: it can't quite get there). Timestamps 00:00 — Intro: Is the AI bubble about to pop? $500B AI infrastructure bet, Google's "zero-click" search problem 02:30 — Community pushback on AI data centers; can the U.S. win the AI race? 04:00 — Meet Char Murphy: attorney, 4x breast cancer survivor, founder of Mission Hope 06:00 — How Char vets manuscripts for AI-generated content 08:30 — The "AI cadence" problem: one-word sentences and repetitive rhythms in books 13:00 — Char's personal story: surviving cancer four times and rebuilding from nothing 16:00 — Why writing your own story is part of the healing process 19:00 — Mission Hope: building a community around authentic storytelling 24:00 — Where AI does have a place: branding, marketing, ideation — not memoirs 27:30 — Advice for entrepreneurs who want to write a book or launch a podcast but feel stuck 30:00 — Final advice for anyone "in the middle of the storm" 32:00 — The AI-generated "Char Murphy" outro experiment Guest: Char Murphy Char Murphy is a retired attorney, motivational speaker, and eight-time #1 bestselling author who survived breast cancer four separate times, faced near-blindness, and rebuilt her identity and career from the ground up. She is the founder of BelieveInspire and creator of the Mission Hope anthology series, a global storytelling movement and bestselling book collection curating authentic stories of resilience, faith, and healing. Guest Links: Mission Hope book series (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Hope-Thriving-Through-Seasons/dp/1956353429 Unshakeable Power: Through Seasons of the Soul (Char's memoir): https://www.amazon.com/Unshakeable-Power-Through-Seasons-Soul/dp/1734025034 BelieveInspire / Motivation Champs author page: https://www.motivationchamps.com/authors/char-murphy/ Char Murphy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorcharlottemurphy/ Hosts Julie Lokun — Founder of The Mediacasters, co-founder of Dragonfly Podcast Academy, and co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast Dominick Domasky — Co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, longtime publishing collaborator Key Quotes / Soundbites "It's that same human interaction that we all crave and that we want. So when it comes to storytelling, if it's not the real person telling the story, then where's the legitimacy behind it?" — Char Murphy "Why let a computer tell your story for you?" — Char Murphy "If an AI is writing your story, then it's not gonna heal you. It's not gonna heal anybody else really, because that legitimacy is not coming through." — Char Murphy "Just start. Just start writing." — Char Murphy's advice to aspiring authors Resources & Mentions NVIDIA's $500B AI infrastructure partnership (Apollo, BlackRock, Blackstone, Brookfield, Goldman Sachs) Mission Hope anthology series by Char Murphy Unshakeable Power: Through Seasons of the Soul by Char Murphy BelieveInspire (Char's coaching and storytelling community) Motivation Champs Subscribe & Connect Subscribe to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Follow Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky for more on podcasting, branding, and entrepreneurship Rate and review the show to help more entrepreneurs find these conversations Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

At The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, we love spotlighting members of our community, the businesses they’re building, the shows they’re creating and all the cool things they’re doing along the way. For this special Labor Day bonus episode, we’re featuring Not the Smartest Guys in the Room, hosted by someone you might recognize, Dominick Domasky, and his good friend Tom Langan. This episode is all about what we love about America. From freedom, opportunity and chasing a dream to football, food, road trips, small towns, big cities and plenty of uniquely American craziness, Tom and Dom celebrate the people, places and possibilities that make this country special. Entrepreneurship has always been about believing something is possible, taking a chance and creating your own path. That spirit is a big part of what we celebrate every week on The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, and it’s at the heart of this conversation too. Happy Labor Day from The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast. Enjoy this special bonus episode of Not the Smartest Guys in the Room. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Our Live Events: www.cre8tivecon.com About this episode: This week on The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky unpack one of the biggest shifts in media history: the mainstream isn't discovering creators anymore — creators built the mainstream themselves. The conversation centers on Curry Barker's breakout horror film "Obsession," made for under $1 million and grossing over $500 million worldwide, and Kane Pixels (Kane Parsons), whose debut film opened bigger than any release in A24's history — the same weekend Disney's "Mandalorian and Grogu" dropped 70% in its second week on a $165 million budget. Julie and Dominick use these case studies to explore a bigger question: is business risk actually lower when you invest in creators with built-in, proven audiences? They walk through how the algorithm shift from follower-count-based distribution to interest-based media has leveled the playing field for entrepreneurs starting from zero, why consistency and "camera-ready" content matter more than luck, and how creators like MrBeast (Beast Bars, Beast Games on Prime Video) and Jake Paul (Prime Hydration, boxing promotion) diversified their attention into full product portfolios instead of renting an audience from a single platform. The episode also touches on a real community example — a creator who turned her personal story around on TikTok and grew fast enough to land a booking on Jenny McCarthy's podcast within months — and closes with a challenge to entrepreneurs sitting on the sidelines waiting for permission from a studio, network, or publisher that no longer holds the keys. Key Topics & Timestamps The Curry Barker "Obsession" case study: $750K budget, $500M+ worldwide gross Kane Pixels (Kane Parsons) outselling A24's biggest openings at age 20 Why proven audience size is now lower business risk than a traditional Hollywood pitch How interest-based algorithms (not follower count) decide who gets discovered in 2026 MrBeast and Jake Paul: turning attention into product, not just views The "own your ecosystem, don't rent your audience" philosophy Why consistency and a clear "why" beat chasing virality Is mainstream media (CNN, ABC, Fox, cable) dead — or just adapting? AI, content strategy, and why website designers and creators alike must "zag" when their industry zigs Quotable Takeaway As Julie Lokun puts it, the entrepreneurs winning right now aren't the ones with the most followers — they're the ones who understand their audience's deepest needs and treat every piece of content as a product, not a promotion. It's a principle echoed by marketing pioneer Gary Vaynerchuk, who has long argued that platforms and formats will keep shifting, but attention that gets logged and compounded over years — not chased overnight — is what eventually turns into real leverage. Who Should Listen Entrepreneurs, podcasters, content creators, marketing and brand strategists, small business owners building a media presence, and anyone deciding whether to invest time in building an audience on YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram before "the industry" ever comes calling. About the Hosts Julie Lokun, JD, is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant, and founder of The Mediacasters LLC. Dominick Domasky is her longtime co-host and collaborator. Together they host The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, ranked in the top 0.05% of podcasts globally on Listen Notes and top 5 weekly on Apple Podcasts. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Check out Tina Eliana's YouTube Channel : (4) Jam Sessions with Tina Eliana - YouTube How often do we overlook our own leadership because no one has given it a title? And what changes when someone recognizes what is already within us before we are ready to claim it for ourselves? Those two questions sit at the center of Season 1, Episode 4 of Jam Sessions With Tina Eliana, where host Tina Eliana sits down with entrepreneur, author, and podcaster Julie Lokun, JD, for a conversation titled "How to Recognize Your Everyday Leadership." It is a personal, unfiltered discussion about self-trust, courage, judgment, vulnerability, belief, and influence — and about the leadership so many of us practice long before we ever recognize it as leadership at all. Because leadership does not suddenly appear the moment we get a promotion, a platform, or permission. It is already there, in the way we show up, long before anyone hands us a title. About This Episode Leadership is usually framed as something that happens after — after the promotion, after the platform, after someone in charge decides you're ready. This episode of Jam Sessions With Tina Eliana pushes back on that idea entirely. Tina Eliana and Julie Lokun spend the hour making the case that leadership is something most of us are already doing, quietly, in the decisions nobody sees — and that the real turning point isn't earning the title, it's finally recognizing what was already true. Julie Lokun is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, podcaster, and the founder of The Mediacasters, an omni-media company built to help entrepreneurs and creatives amplify their voices through podcasting, publishing, and public speaking. She is also the founder of Cre8tive Con and co-founder, alongside Dr. JC Doornick, of Dragonfly Podcast Academy, where entrepreneurs learn how to launch, grow, and monetize their own podcasts. Her guiding philosophy — own your ecosystem, don't rent your audience — runs underneath everything she builds, and it shows up throughout this conversation. What makes this episode especially layered is the history between the two women at the table. Julie is one of the people who recognized Tina's potential and believed in her message before Tina fully understood where that message could lead. That backstory adds a second dimension to the conversation: this isn't just two leadership voices theorizing about influence in the abstract. It's a real example of it, playing out between the two people discussing it. Julie speaks candidly about the point in her life when living according to everyone else's expectations stopped being sustainable — the moment the gap between what she was performing and what she actually wanted became too wide to keep ignoring. From there, she and Tina dig into instinct, emotion, sound judgment, and the uncomfortable truth that confidence doesn't protect any of us from a blind spot. Competence and self-awareness are not the same thing, and this episode sits directly in that gap. Key Themes Explored in This Episode Tina and Julie explore questions that reach far beyond a job title, including: What does everyday leadership look like before anyone calls it leadership? Long before a title is attached, leadership shows up in follow-through, in the choices made when no one is watching, and in the willingness to take responsibility for outcomes. How much can one person's belief change another person's direction? Julie and Tina's own relationship becomes the case study — what it means to see potential in someone before they can fully see it in themselves, and how that early belief can reroute a career or a life. What role should emotion play in leadership and business decisions? Rather than treating emotion as something to suppress in professional settings, the conversation reframes it as data — information that, ignored, tends to resurface as a blind spot later. Why can intelligent, capable people still miss what is happening in front of them? Confidence and competence can coexist with a total blind spot. This episode dismantles the idea that being smart or accomplished makes anyone immune to missing the obvious. How do shame and self-blame affect us after a blind spot? What happens in the aftermath matters as much as the blind spot itself — and Julie and Tina talk openly about the difference between accountability and self-punishment. There are moments of laughter, reflection, and real vulnerability in this episode — the kind that may leave you reconsidering where you've already been leading without realizing it, and where you might still be waiting for a permission you no longer need. Meet Julie Lokun, JD Julie Lokun, JD is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant, and the founder of The Mediacasters LLC, an omni-media company built around one core belief: creators and entrepreneurs should own their ecosystem, not rent their audience. Julie is also the co-founder of Dragonfly Cre8tions LLC, Dragonfly Podcast Academy, and Cre8tive Con, including its traveling OTR (On The Road) series, which brings Julie's Own Your Ecosystem framework directly to entrepreneurs and creatives across the country. She co-hosts two top-ranked shows: The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast alongside Dominick Domasky, and Get Obsessed Podcast alongside Mika Altidor — both of which rank in the top 0.05% of podcasts globally on Listen Notes and regularly chart in the top 5 on Apple Podcasts. Julie holds a JD from John Marshall Law School/UIC, a BA in Journalism from Indiana University, and a Masters Certification in Life Coaching. She is also a contributing writer for Entrepreneur Magazine and MindValley. Connect with Julie Lokun: Full bio and links: jamsessionswithtinaeliana.com/julie-lokun Explore her work: Cre8tive Con About Jam Sessions With Tina Eliana Jam Sessions With Tina Eliana is a leadership podcast exploring intentional leadership beyond titles, positions, and organizational charts. Here, the titles get left at the door. Through candid conversations that span industries, communities, cultures, and lived experience, the show examines everyday decisions, relationships, courageous choices, self-awareness, influence, and personal responsibility — often long before anyone officially calls the person living them a "leader." No pedestal. No pretending. Just meaningful conversations about how we show up, and the influence we carry whether or not we've claimed it yet. Explore more episodes: www.jamsessionswithtinaeliana.com About Tina Eliana Tina Eliana is a Leadership and Learning Systems Advisor, author, speaker, podcast host, and community builder who helps individuals recognize the leader already within themselves — and helps organizations strengthen leadership across their teams. A four-time WGU graduate and WGU Alumni Ambassador, Tina brings both an academic and a deeply personal lens to leadership development. She is also a patient advocate for Visual Snow Syndrome, an experience that informs the empathy and honesty she brings to every conversation on her show. Across all of her work runs one simple belief: leadership isn't reserved for people with titles. About Dominick Domasky Dominick Domasky is Julie Lokun's longtime collaborator and co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, one of the top-ranked shows in Julie's growing media ecosystem. Together, Julie and Dominick have built a show — and a broader creative partnership — centered on helping entrepreneurs think bigger about the media they build and the ecosystems they own. If this episode's themes of leadership, self-recognition, and owning your own narrative resonated with you, The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast goes even deeper into what it takes to build and lead as a creative entrepreneur every single week. Frequently Asked Questions What is Episode 4 of Jam Sessions With Tina Eliana about? Season 1, Episode 4, titled "How to Recognize Your Everyday Leadership," features host Tina Eliana in conversation with Julie Lokun, JD, about self-trust, courage, judgment, vulnerability, belief, and the leadership many of us are already practicing before we recognize it in ourselves. Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun, JD, is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and podcaster, and the founder of The Mediacasters. She also founded Cre8tive Con and co-founded Dragonfly Podcast Academy with Dr. JC Doornick. She co-hosts The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and Get Obsessed Podcast. Who is Tina Eliana? Tina Eliana is a Leadership and Learning Systems Advisor, author, speaker, and podcast host of Jam Sessions With Tina Eliana. She is a four-time WGU graduate, a WGU Alumni Ambassador, and a patient advocate for Visual Snow Syndrome. What is "everyday leadership"? As discussed in this episode, everyday leadership refers to the leadership we practice in ordinary, unglamorous moments — showing up consistently, taking responsibility, trusting our own judgment — long before any title, promotion, or platform officially names us a leader. How does belief from another person change our direction? Julie and Tina's own relationship illustrates this directly: Julie recognized potential in Tina before Tina fully understood where her own message could lead. The episode explores how one person's early belief in another can reroute the direction of a career or a life. Why do capable, intelligent people still develop blind spots? Confidence and competence do not guarantee self-awareness. The episode unpacks why smart, accomplished people can still miss what's directly in front of them, and why humility — not intelligence — is what closes that gap. Where can I connect with Julie Lokun or learn more about her work? Visit her guest page at jamsessionswithtinaeliana.com/julie-lokun or explore her broader ecosystem, including Cre8tive Con, at www.cre8tivecon.com. Where can I listen to more episodes of Jam Sessions With Tina Eliana? You can find th

Learn More About Our Creative Entrepreneur LIVE Events: www.cre8tivecon.com ABOUT THE EPISODE: He was a people-pleaser who said "sounds good" while dying inside. Then a negotiation class he only picked because it "fit his schedule" rewired his entire nervous system — and turned Kwame Christian, Esq. into one of the most in-demand negotiators on the planet. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur, Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with Kwame Christian — CEO of the American Negotiation Institute, host of Negotiate Anything (16M+ downloads, 1,700+ episodes, the #1 negotiation podcast in the world for nearly a decade), two-time bestselling author, Forbes contributor, and the creator of LinkedIn's only negotiation certificate. Global Gurus just named him a Top 10 negotiation professional in the world for 2026, and in his spare time, he's a 99th-percentile chess player with 20,000 games logged. This conversation goes past the LinkedIn-post version of Kwame's story into the real one: a six-year-old getting rejected on the playground, a law school elective picked at random, and the framework — Compassionate Curiosity — that's now taught inside Google, Apple, and NASA. What You'll Learn The chess principle that applies directly to business strategy: why "control the center, develop your pieces, and don't move the same piece twice" is a lesson in decision-making under uncertainty. Why negotiation is a skill, not a talent — and how one law school competition win rewired Kwame's entire sense of identity. The origin story of his people-pleasing — a first-grade playground rejection that shaped two decades of over-accommodating. The Compassionate Curiosity framework: acknowledge and validate emotions → get curious with compassion → joint problem-solving. The 70/30 rule: why the best negotiators speak 30% of the time and listen 70%, and why "you can't say something stupid while you're listening." The "acceptance speech test": how to frame an offer so well the other side could read it verbatim to their own team as a win. "Concede according to plan": Kwame's rule for never making an emotional concession in the moment. How to negotiate at home — and why the same framework that works with Fortune 500 clients works with a five-year-old and a ten-year-old. Jules Rules: Julie, Dom, and Kwame each share their biggest negotiation misses — and how to avoid them. Key Quotes "I wasn't born this way, I was built this way." "The best things in life are on the other side of difficult conversations." "Negotiation is the art of letting them have your way." "I am more willing to accept failure than I am to accept regret." "Every good decision will come with some collateral damage." Timestamps 00:00 — Introducing Kwame Christian, Esq. 03:10 — Chess as a metaphor for business strategy 08:45 — From people-pleaser to negotiation champion 14:20 — The playground story behind the people-pleasing 19:30 — Introducing Compassionate Curiosity 27:15 — Negotiating at home vs. negotiating with Fortune 500 clients 33:40 — High-stakes negotiation on the world stage 39:05 — Jules Rules: negotiation misses 47:00 — The acceptance speech test and win-win negotiation 54:15 — Kwame's early-career negotiation mistake and final tips Connect with Kwame Christian American Negotiation Institute: https://kwamechristian.com/ Negotiate Anything Podcast (Apple Podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/negotiate-anything/id1101679010 Negotiate Anything Podcast (Listen Notes): https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/negotiate-anything-kwame-christian-esq-ma-H9D3X0q-KFt/ Kwame Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/ Books: Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life and How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race Connect with The Creative Entrepreneur Hosted by Julie Lokun (The Mediacasters, Dragonfly Podcast Academy) and Dominick Domasky Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Frequently Asked Questions Who is Kwame Christian? Kwame Christian, Esq., M.A. is an attorney, keynote speaker, and CEO of the American Negotiation Institute. He hosts Negotiate Anything, which was the #1 negotiation podcast in the world for nearly a decade, and has trained negotiation teams at Google, Apple, and NASA. What is Compassionate Curiosity? Compassionate Curiosity is Kwame Christian's three-step framework for difficult conversations: acknowledge and validate emotions, get curious with compassion by asking open-ended questions, and move into joint problem-solving so both sides work together against the problem instead of against each other. What is the "acceptance speech test" in negotiation? It's a technique for framing an offer so strongly from the other person's perspective that they could repeat it word-for-word to their own team as a personal win, while your own interests are still built into the deal. What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is a live event experience co-founded by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, built around branding, podcasting, and creative entrepreneurship. Its traveling series, Cre8tive Con OTR, tours cities nationally and leads up to a flagship Cre8tive Con event. Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun, JD is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant. She's the founder of The Mediacasters LLC, co-founder of Dragonfly Cre8tions LLC (including Dragonfly Podcast Academy), and co-founder of Cre8tive Con. She co-hosts The Creative Entrepreneur and Get Obsessed, and her podcasts rank in the top 0.05% globally on Listen Notes. Who is Dominick Domasky? Dominick Domasky is a co-founder of Cre8tive Con and co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur podcast alongside Julie Lokun, where the two interview founders, authors, and experts on branding, business growth, and creative entrepreneurship. What is The Creative Entrepreneur podcast? The Creative Entrepreneur is a business and branding podcast hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, featuring conversations with entrepreneurs, authors, and experts like Kwame Christian on building brands, scaling businesses, and mastering the skills — like negotiation and communication — that drive long-term success. Where can I learn more about Cre8tive Con OTR? Cre8tive Con OTR is the traveling version of Cre8tive Con, bringing the event's branding and entrepreneurship programming to cities across the country as part of a national tour building toward a larger flagship event. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast hit the road for Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road) Boston, hosted at One Financial Center. Co-hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down post-event to unpack the blind spots most business owners never see — and the strategists who exposed them live. Inside this episode: Kerry Brett (Rolling Stone, Boston Globe photographer) on optics and how you're perceived before you speak John Lee, NYT bestselling author of Money Unlocked, on leveraging AI to scale your brand and business Keap (CRM) on automation that still feels human — following up at scale without losing connection Neil Rodgers on positive activity and the mindset work behind sustainable growth Nick Hutchison of BookThinkers on why "trust is transitive" and how community compounds credibility Julie and Dominick's 8 Pillars of Owning Your Ecosystem: website, email list, book/IP, podcast, community, content library, live events, and your own stage The hosts also share how phone-free "portal" moments (inspired by mentor Sean Finegan) shaped the room, and tease the next stop: Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando, timed around PodFest Expo. Key Takeaways You don't own rented land — social platforms can disappear overnight. Build your own ecosystem instead. Optics matter before you ever open your mouth. AI is a scaling asset, not a replacement for strategy. Automation should sound like you, not a robot. Trust is transitive — the right relationships open doors faster than cold outreach. FAQs What is Cre8tive Con OTR? Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road) is the traveling live-event series from Cre8tive Con, bringing entrepreneurs, authors, and podcasters together city by city — Boston was the launch stop, with Orlando next. What are the 8 Pillars of Owning Your Ecosystem? Website, email list, book/IP, podcast, community, content library, live events, and your own stage — the framework Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky use to help entrepreneurs stop renting audiences and start owning them. Who spoke at Cre8tive Con OTR Boston? Kerry Brett, John Lee, Neil Rodgers, Nick Hutchison, and the Keap team joined hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky. When is Cre8tive Con OTR Orlando? It's coming up around PodFest Expo — details at cre8tivecon.com. What book did John Lee talk about? His New York Times bestseller Money Unlocked, covering how to protect, grow, and scale your money. About the Hosts Julie Lokun, JD is a media entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and brand consultant, and founder of The Mediacasters LLC. She co-founded Dragonfly Cre8tions LLC and Dragonfly Podcast Academy, and co-hosts both The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and Get Obsessed Podcast — both ranked in the top 0.05% globally on Listen Notes. Learn more at julielokunconsulting.com. Dominick Domasky is a speaker, brand strategist, and founder of Motivation Champs, known for his signature mantra: "Control it, don't let it control you." He co-founded Cre8tive Con and Cre8tive Con OTR with Julie Lokun. Learn more at motivationchamps.com. Links & Resources Cre8tive Con & OTR Orlando: www.cre8tivecon.com Motivation Champs (Dominick Domasky): www.motivationchamps.com Julie Lokun Consulting: www.julielokunconsulting.com Big Better Brand: www.bigbetterbrand.com Subscribe, rate, and review The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — and follow along as OTR heads to Orlando next. Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast? Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.