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. 4 DAYS AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 10/08/2025

    Prime Day Wins, YouTube Growth Hacks & Q4 Success Strategies (with Ben Phair) | Ep. 70

    In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike is joined by fellow creator Ben Phair to unpack the strategies, wins, and lessons learned from Amazon Prime Day — and how those takeaways can help you earn more year-round. We dive deep into why some influencers thrived while others struggled during the sales event, the critical role of advance preparation, and how to create content that actually converts. Mike and Ben also share their July earnings breakdown, revealing revenue streams from Amazon Onsite, Offsite, and Creator Connections, plus how they’re diversifying their income for stability and growth. From there, we shift into YouTube growth strategies — covering practical tips for building a channel that drives long-term revenue, increases engagement, and strengthens your brand. You’ll learn how to create content that ranks, craft hooks that keep viewers watching, and use analytics to refine your approach. We wrap up with actionable Q4 planning tips so you can hit the busiest shopping season fully prepared — from gift guides and product comparisons to content scheduling and collaboration opportunities. Whether you’re an Amazon Influencer, content creator, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insider advice to maximize earnings and scale your business. 🔑 Key Topics in This Episode: Lessons from Amazon Prime Day: What worked & what didn’t July income breakdown across multiple platforms YouTube tips for growth, engagement & monetization Creative review techniques that stand out Using analytics to refine your strategy Building a loyal YouTube community Q4 content planning & monetization opportunities ⏱ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & guest welcome 00:51 – Prime Day insights & reflections 08:05 – July earnings breakdown 11:12 – YouTube strategies & offsite earnings 23:53 – Planning content for Q4 24:22 – Fitness channel ideas 24:57 – Creative review techniques 25:24 – YouTube strategies & tips 25:58 – Gift guides & comparisons 26:54 – Maximizing YouTube & Amazon 28:29 – Understanding analytics 30:29 – Creating engaging hooks 33:45 – Building a YouTube community 36:37 – Personal stories & vulnerability 37:03 – The power of raw content 41:38 – Taking risks & growing 43:22 – Networking & support 46:10 – Final thoughts & Q4 preparation 💡 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.) 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: levelupwithmike@gmail.com

    48 min

  7. 29/06/2025

    Data-Driven Success Strategies with Claire - Ep.69

    In this episode, Mike returns from a short hiatus with life updates and a powerful guest interview featuring Claire, a data analyst turned Amazon Influencer. Claire brings her expertise in statistics, market research, and creator behavior to the conversation, breaking down what actually moves the needle for influencers. Claire shares key findings from her influencer surveys, including: 📊 Video quality vs. quantity — What matters more?🎯 Thumbnails that convert — Why they play a bigger role than you think⏱️ Time spent on videos — Is effort really correlated with success?🤝 The role of community — How creator relationships affect your resultsWhether you’re new to influencer marketing or trying to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with data-backed insights to help you grow smarter and faster. 🔗 Guest Links — Connect with Claire 💼 Work with Claire / Shop her storefront: stan.store/datacoachclaire📬 Free Newsletter 📧 Email: DataCoachClaire@gmail.com💡 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.) 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: levelupwithmike@gmail.com

    55 min

  8. 18/05/2025

    The Long Game: Building Resilience as a Creator : Ep. #68

    In this solo episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike gets real about the rollercoaster of content creation — especially when your numbers suddenly drop. Pulling back the curtain on his own major income dip from April to May, Mike opens up about the emotional toll these slow months can take, and why it’s not always your fault. He breaks down the real reasons behind sudden performance declines — including shifts in Amazon’s algorithm, economic changes, and seasonal buyer behavior — while offering clear advice on how to navigate the storm. This episode is a mix of tough love, encouragement, and practical strategy. Mike shares how to manage mindset during discouraging times, why long-term brand building matters more than chasing short-term wins, and how diversifying your income streams can protect you in uncertain seasons. If you’ve been feeling stuck, defeated, or ready to throw in the towel — this one’s for you. Work 1-on-1 with Mike: ⁠Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session⁠ ⁠Save with a 4-Session Bundle   🔗 Join Our Facebook Community: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/ (Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) Make smarter content decisions and grow faster with Viral Vue. ⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠ — Save 10% for life with code: STRAHL10 (Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) Descript: Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro with Descript. ⁠Check out Descript here⁠ (Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.) For all inquiries, email: levelupwithmike@gmail.com

    13 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
    75
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Mike Strahl
  • Show Website
    Creator's Leverage Guild

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