Creator's Leverage Guild

Mike Strahl
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Creator’s Leverage Guild is a community-driven podcast for content creators, Amazon Influencers, side hustlers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build real income streams through content, systems, and smart leverage. Hosted by Mike Strahl and Ben Phair, the show dives into affiliate marketing, Amazon Influencer strategies, YouTube growth, brand collaborations, monetization systems, and lessons learned from building online income the hard way. Expect honest conversations, real-world experience, and practical insights without the hype. Contact: support@creatorsleverageguild.com

  1. 16 HR AGO

    The Creator Tools & Subscriptions We Pay For and the Ones You Don’t Need Yet

    In this episode, Mike and Ben break down the creator subscriptions, software, and tools they personally pay for, and which ones are actually worth it for Amazon Influencers and content creators.As you grow in the Amazon Influencer Program, YouTube, or content creation in general, it’s easy to feel like you need to pay for every tool that promises faster growth. The truth is, most creators can go very far using free tools, and upgrading too early often leads to wasted money without improving results.We talk through the free tools every creator should start with, including Canva, iMovie, CapCut, and cloud storage, and when it actually makes sense to upgrade to paid software like Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or other editing platforms.We also break down the tools that can directly improve efficiency and increase earnings, including Oink and Viral View for Amazon Influencer product research and Creator Connections, Geniuslink for international affiliate linking, vidIQ for YouTube optimization, Keepa for product research, and ChatGPT for workflow efficiency.In addition, we share how we personally manage our creator subscriptions, including how to audit tools regularly, avoid unnecessary monthly expenses, and evaluate whether a tool is truly saving time or making money.We also discuss real-world creator tool costs, what we currently spend per month and per year, and how we decide whether a subscription is worth keeping or canceling.If you’re an Amazon Influencer, YouTube creator, or content creator trying to grow your income while avoiding unnecessary expenses, this episode will help you understand which tools matter, which ones can wait, and how to build your creator stack the right way. ________________________ JOIN THE COMMUNITY If you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, and honest conversations with other serious content creators, the Creator’s Leverage Guild was built for exactly that. Learn more and join here: ⁠⁠⁠Creator’s Leverage Guild⁠⁠⁠ WORK 1-ON-1 WITH MIKE AND BEN Get personalized guidance on content strategy, monetization, brand deals, and scaling your creator business. • Book a 1-hour coaching call • Save with a 4-session coaching package ⁠⁠⁠Sign Me Up!⁠⁠⁠ _________________________ JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY Connect with other Amazon Influencers and content creators, ask questions, and stay up to date on what is working right now. ⁠⁠⁠Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠ _________________________ TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORS Viral Vue Make smarter content decisions and grow faster. ⁠⁠⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠⁠⁠ Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Oink Track earnings and performance across platforms. ⁠⁠⁠Try Oink here⁠⁠⁠ Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Descript Edit podcasts and videos faster and easier. ⁠⁠⁠Check out Descript here⁠⁠⁠ Geniuslinks: Our #1 Deeplinking Pick!Try Geniuslinks!VidiQ: Our #1 pick for YouTube channel Insights!Try VidIQKeepa: Makes advanced product research for AIP a breeze!Try KeepaLasso: Deeplinking for Blogs & YouTubeGet LassoKadence WP: Great amazing websites for blogsNotion: Super helpful AI Agenthttps://www.notion.com/productCanva: So many uses! Our go to for creating thumbnails.https://www.canva.comChatGPT: My go to for AI help with brainstorming and planning!https://chatgpt.com Affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. __________________________ CONTACT Have a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request? Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

    45 min

  2. 15 FEB

    The Truth About Consistency, Burnout, and Long-Term Earnings

    In this episode, Mike and Ben break down one of the most important topics for long-term success in the Amazon Influencer Program: staying consistent without burning yourself out. Consistency looks different for everyone, and the key is finding a pace you can realistically maintain long-term. We talk about what burnout actually is, why it happens, and how it often shows up as creative fatigue rather than laziness. Whether it’s pushing too hard, reviewing products you’re not excited about, or feeling discouraged when earnings don’t match effort, burnout can slow down even the most motivated creators. We share practical ways to reduce decision fatigue, including sourcing products you already own, checking your Amazon order history, and focusing on items you have real experience with. These types of videos are often easier to create and more valuable to viewers because they come from genuine use. We also discuss how to use your performance data to guide your decisions. Instead of guessing, you can look at your reports, identify which videos and product angles are working, and replicate those patterns. This helps increase your dollars per video over time and shifts your focus toward quality and intentional content instead of chasing volume. Another major theme in this episode is understanding the natural ups and downs of earnings. We talk about seasonality, why slower months happen, and how planning ahead for major events like Prime Day and Q4 can make a significant difference in your long-term results. We also cover the importance of focusing your efforts instead of trying to grow on every platform at once. For most creators, the best move is to establish a strong foundation on Amazon first, then expand to platforms like YouTube and Facebook once you have momentum. Whether you’re feeling burned out, stuck, or just trying to find a better rhythm, this episode will help you build a more sustainable and effective content strategy. ________________________ JOIN THE COMMUNITY If you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, and honest conversations with other serious content creators, the Creator’s Leverage Guild was built for exactly that. Learn more and join here: ⁠⁠Creator’s Leverage Guild⁠⁠ WORK 1-ON-1 WITH MIKE AND BEN Get personalized guidance on content strategy, monetization, brand deals, and scaling your creator business. • Book a 1-hour coaching call • Save with a 4-session coaching package ⁠⁠Sign Me Up!⁠⁠ _________________________ JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY Connect with other Amazon Influencers and content creators, ask questions, and stay up to date on what is working right now. ⁠⁠Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠⁠ _________________________ TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORS Viral Vue Make smarter content decisions and grow faster. ⁠⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠⁠ Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Oink Track earnings and performance across platforms. ⁠⁠Try Oink here⁠⁠ Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Descript Edit podcasts and videos faster and easier. ⁠⁠Check out Descript here⁠⁠ Affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. __________________________ CONTACT Have a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request? Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

    43 min

  3. 8 FEB

    Amazon Influencer Program 101: Getting Started & Building the Proper Foundations

    In this episode of the Creators Leverage Guild podcast, Mike and Ben break down the Amazon Influencer Program from the ground up, with a strong focus on beginners and those early in the process. We walk through what the Amazon Influencer Program actually is, how Phase One works, and the different ways you can apply using your existing social media accounts. We also share practical tips for getting approved and setting yourself up for success right from the start. From there, we move into Phase Two and talk through what your first three videos should and should not look like. We cover common mistakes that can slow people down early on, what Amazon is really looking for, and how to avoid unnecessary rejections. A big part of this episode focuses on the importance of volume and consistency, specifically why creating your first 100 videos matters so much. We explain how those early videos help you build confidence, improve your filming process, and better understand the metrics that actually drive engagement and conversions. We also touch on basic equipment considerations, technical tips to make filming easier, and how being part of a community can shorten the learning curve as you grow in the program. If you’re brand new to the Amazon Influencer Program or looking for clarity on what to focus on next, this episode lays out a clear path forward. ________________________ JOIN THE COMMUNITY If you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, and honest conversations with other serious content creators, the Creator’s Leverage Guild was built for exactly that. Learn more and join here: ⁠Creator’s Leverage Guild⁠ WORK 1-ON-1 WITH MIKE AND BEN Get personalized guidance on content strategy, monetization, brand deals, and scaling your creator business. • Book a 1-hour coaching call • Save with a 4-session coaching package ⁠Sign Me Up!⁠ _________________________ JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY Connect with other Amazon Influencers and content creators, ask questions, and stay up to date on what is working right now. ⁠Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠ _________________________ TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORS Viral Vue Make smarter content decisions and grow faster. ⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠ Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Oink Track earnings and performance across platforms. ⁠Try Oink here⁠ Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Descript Edit podcasts and videos faster and easier. ⁠Check out Descript here⁠ Affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. __________________________ CONTACT Have a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request? Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

    34 min

  4. 1 FEB

    Free Samples, Paid Deals, and the Line Every Creator Eventually Crosses

    In this episode of the Creator’s Leverage Guild Podcast, Mike and Ben break down the real-world mechanics of free samples, brand collaborations, and how creators can turn those opportunities into meaningful income without burning bridges or underselling themselves. They kick things off by sharing their early experiences with free samples, including the excitement of those first offers and how their approach has evolved as their platforms and leverage have grown. The conversation moves into common pitfalls creators face when relying too heavily on unpaid collaborations and how to recognize when it is time to shift from “free product” to paid partnerships. Mike and Ben dive deep into outbound brand outreach, including how to structure professional emails, how to communicate value, and how to confidently discuss budgets and collaboration fees. They also cover why professionalism, clarity, and consistency matter so much when dealing with brands long-term. The episode also touches on important topics like FTC disclosures, tax considerations around free products, and why understanding the business side of content creation is just as important as filming great videos. They explain how proper setup on YouTube, smart SEO practices, and deep linking tools can dramatically improve performance and earnings. This conversation is packed with practical advice for creators at every stage, whether you are just starting to receive samples or you are actively negotiating paid brand deals and looking to stack multiple income streams more effectively. If you want a clearer framework for handling brand collaborations, maximizing free samples, and building sustainable creator income, this episode is a must-listen. ________________________ JOIN THE COMMUNITY If you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, and honest conversations with other serious content creators, the Creator’s Leverage Guild was built for exactly that. Learn more and join here: Creator’s Leverage Guild WORK 1-ON-1 WITH MIKE AND BEN Get personalized guidance on content strategy, monetization, brand deals, and scaling your creator business. • Book a 1-hour coaching call • Save with a 4-session coaching package Sign Me Up! _________________________ JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY Connect with other Amazon Influencers and content creators, ask questions, and stay up to date on what is working right now. Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group _________________________ TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORS Viral Vue Make smarter content decisions and grow faster. Try Viral Vue here Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Oink Track earnings and performance across platforms. Try Oink here Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Descript Edit podcasts and videos faster and easier. Check out Descript here Affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. __________________________ CONTACT Have a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request? Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

    55 min
  5. What We’re Building in 2026 and Why Accountability Is the Foundation

    25 JAN

    What We’re Building in 2026 and Why Accountability Is the Foundation

    In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike is joined by Ben for an important announcement episode that marks a major turning point heading into 2026. This conversation represents the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Mike and Ben share why they have decided to officially partner together on the podcast going forward and what that means for the future direction of the show. They talk through how their focus as content creators has evolved, including a stronger emphasis on YouTube, higher-quality video production, and building systems that support long-term growth instead of short-term wins. Ben shares insight into narrowing focus, improving production quality, and why intentional content decisions matter more than ever. A big part of this episode centers around the importance of community, accountability, and surrounding yourself with creators who are actively building. That leads into the announcement of a brand-new community that Mike and Ben have been building behind the scenes. This community is designed specifically for serious content creators who want structure, strategy, accountability, and real conversations about what is actually working. They also discuss personal goals for 2026, how to balance content creation across platforms without burning out, and why quality, efficiency, and focus will be the difference-maker going forward. If you have been following the podcast for a while, this episode sets the stage for what is coming next and why things are about to look very different, in the best way possible. _________________________________ JOIN THE NEW COMMUNITY: If you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, and real conversations with other serious content creators, we have launched a brand-new community designed to support creators who want to grow with intention. You can learn more and join the community here: Creator's Leverage Guild Work 1-on-1 with Mike and Ben Get personalized guidance on content, strategy, and monetization. Book a 1-hour call or save with a 4-session coaching package. Sign me Up! __________________________________ JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group __________________________________ TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORS: Viral Vue. Make smarter content decisions and grow faster. Try Viral Vue here Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Oink. Track earnings and performance across platforms. Try Oink here Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Descript. Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro. Check out Descript here Affiliate link. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. ___________________________ CONTACT: Have a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request? Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

    42 min
  6. From Teacher to Creator: How Jen Built Income with UGC and Travel Content

    18 JAN

    From Teacher to Creator: How Jen Built Income with UGC and Travel Content

    In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike is joined by Jen, a full-time content creator and photographer from Alberta, Canada, to break down how User Generated Content (UGC) actually works and how creators are getting paid without relying on a large following. Jen shares her journey from being a grade one teacher to building a full-time income through photography, UGC, and brand partnerships. We talk through what UGC is, how it differs from traditional influencer marketing and the Amazon Influencer Program, and why it has become one of the most accessible ways for creators to monetize their skills. The conversation dives into how Jen landed her first UGC opportunities, what brands look for when hiring creators, and how to position yourself professionally even when you’re just getting started. Jen also walks through her experience using Fiverr for UGC work, including how response rates, reviews, and communication directly impact long-term success. We also explore the travel side of UGC, where Jen shares how she’s exchanged content for luxury accommodations, how to pitch hotels and travel brands, and what creators need to understand before trading content for experiences. If you’re interested in UGC, freelancing as a content creator, or using content creation to unlock paid brand deals and travel opportunities, this episode is packed with real-world insight and actionable advice. Topics covered in this episode: What UGC is and how it differs from influencer marketingUGC vs the Amazon Influencer ProgramHow to get started with UGC as a beginnerCreating content brands are willing to pay forUsing Fiverr for UGC work and brand outreachBuilding a portfolio without prior brand dealsNegotiating rates and understanding your valueWhy response rate and communication matterUsing UGC to unlock travel and hotel opportunitiesBalancing UGC with other income streams _______________ Follow along with Jen's Journey! Travel with Jenny Jo UGC with Jenny Jo _______________ 💡 Work 1-on-1 with Mike🚀 ⁠⁠Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session⁠⁠💼 ⁠⁠Save with a 4 Session Bundle⁠⁠ 👥 Join Our Free Facebook CommunityConnect with fellow creators, share wins, and learn strategies that work:👉 ⁠Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠⁠ 🔥 Tools & Resources for Influencers Viral Vue – Make smarter content decisions and grow faster.👉 ⁠⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠⁠ — Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) Oink – Track earnings and performance across platforms.👉 ⁠⁠Try Oink Here - Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life Descript – Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro.👉 ⁠Check out Descript here⁠⁠(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) 📩 ContactHave a question, collab opportunity, or topic request?Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

    45 min

  7. 11 JAN

    Unlocking Tax Strategies for Content Creators: Expert Insights with Tina McGlynn

    In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike is joined by tax professional and Amazon Influencer Program participant Tina McGlynn to break down essential tax strategies every content creator should understand. We dive into why creators need to start treating their content as a business early on, and Tina walks through foundational topics like Schedule C filings, LLC vs S-Corp considerations, deductible expenses, and proper record keeping. Special attention is given to navigating brand deal income, understanding the fair market value of gifted products, and avoiding common mistakes that can cost creators thousands at tax time. Tina also shares practical advice on setting up business bank accounts, tracking income correctly, and staying organized year-round. The episode wraps up with resources and guidance Tina offers to help creators confidently handle their taxes and legally minimize what they owe. Whether you’re brand new or scaling fast, this episode will help you build smarter systems and avoid painful tax surprises. Treating content creation like a business from day one Schedule C basics for content creators LLC vs S-Corp considerations Deductible expenses creators often miss Handling brand deals and gifted products Fair market value of samples Setting up business bank accounts Record keeping and tax prep systems ________________________________ Download Tina's Tax Guide Here! Tax Guide Checklist ________________________________ 💡 Work 1-on-1 with Mike 🚀 ⁠Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session⁠ 💼 ⁠Save with a 4 Session Bundle 👥 Join Our Free Facebook Community Connect with fellow creators, share wins, and learn strategies that work: ⁠👉 Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠ 🔥 Tools & Resources for Influencers Viral Vue – Make smarter content decisions and grow faster. 👉 ⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠ — Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life (Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) Oink – Track earnings and performance across platforms. 👉 ⁠Try Oink here⁠ - Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life (Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) Descript – Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro. ⁠👉 Check out Descript here⁠ (Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) 📩 Contact Have a question, collab opportunity, or topic request? Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com⁠

    1h 3m

  8. 4 JAN

    Back in the Game: Lessons, Systems, and Smarter Growth for 2026

    🎙️ Basic Influencer Strategies PodcastReconnecting, Reflecting, and Strategies for Success in 2026 In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike returns after a five-month hiatus to reconnect with the community and share an honest update on where he’s been including a challenging health setback and the recovery journey that followed. Mike reflects on his 2025 wins, highlighting how his earnings continued to grow even during a season of reduced content creation. He breaks down the importance of diversifying income streams, leaning into offsite content, and using data-driven tools like Viral Vue and Oink to work smarter, not harder. The episode also lays out what’s ahead for the podcast and community in 2026, including upcoming guests, deeper strategy-focused episodes, and new resources designed to help creators at every level scale sustainably. We wrap up with practical advice on time management, intentional collaborations, and building systems that support long-term success without burnout. Whether you’re just getting started or refining an established creator business, this episode sets the tone for a focused and profitable 2026. A personal update and return to the podcast Lessons learned during an unexpected break Growing earnings with less content Diversifying income streams The power of YouTube and offsite earnings Using tools and data to work smarter Planning sustainable systems for 2026 💡 Work 1-on-1 with Mike🚀 ⁠Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session⁠💼 ⁠Save with a 4-Session Bundle⁠ 👥 Join Our Free Facebook CommunityConnect with fellow creators, share wins, and learn strategies that work:⁠👉 Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠ 🔥 Tools & Resources for Influencers Viral Vue – Make smarter content decisions and grow faster.👉 ⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠ — Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) Oink – Track earnings and performance across platforms.👉 ⁠Try Oink here⁠ — Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life. Descript – Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro.⁠👉 Check out Descript here⁠(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) 📩 ContactHave a question, collab opportunity, or topic request?Email: ⁠mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

    23 min
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About

Creator’s Leverage Guild is a community-driven podcast for content creators, Amazon Influencers, side hustlers, and digital entrepreneurs who want to build real income streams through content, systems, and smart leverage. Hosted by Mike Strahl and Ben Phair, the show dives into affiliate marketing, Amazon Influencer strategies, YouTube growth, brand collaborations, monetization systems, and lessons learned from building online income the hard way. Expect honest conversations, real-world experience, and practical insights without the hype. Contact: support@creatorsleverageguild.com

Information

  • Creator
    Mike Strahl
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    78
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Mike Strahl
  • Show Website
    Creator's Leverage Guild

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