Club Cultivate

Whitney Whitaker
  • 5.0 (2)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Club Cultivate is dedicated to empowering young creative professionals in the agricultural and western industries through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

  1. MAR 4

    25. Revenue Does Not Equal Profit (The Profit First System Explained)

    Revenue does not equal profit. In this solo episode, Whitney breaks down the Profit First system by Mike Michalowicz and explains how this simple framework can help creative entrepreneurs organize their finances, pay themselves consistently, and build a healthier business. Instead of waiting to see what’s left at the end of the month, this system flips the traditional equation and puts profit first. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why revenue numbers online can be misleading • The simple equation that changes how you run your business • The five bank accounts that make cash flow easier to manage • How to pay yourself consistently as a business owner • Why systems matter more than just “making more money” • How to start implementing Profit First immediately Resource Mentioned Profit First Book – Mike Michalowicz Action Steps Open the five bank accounts Decide your percentage allocations Review your expenses Start implementing on the next 10th or 25th Read the book for the full framework If you enjoy these solo episodes and conversations around building sustainable creative businesses, make sure you're following Club Cultivate wherever you listen to podcasts.

    18 min

  2. FEB 25

    24. From Zero Experience to AHA Audio Visual Specialist with Kelsey Vejraska

    If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to create content inside a breed association (or how to break into that world), this episode is for you. Kelsey Vejraska shares how she went from “I know nothing about a camera” to Audio Visual Specialist at the American Hereford Association, plus practical advice on storytelling, gear, inspiration, and fast turnaround event coverage. In this episode, you’ll learn… What breed association “content” work actually includes (and why the title rarely says “content creator”) How Kelsey learned video quickly: repetition, mentoring, and “YouTube University” Where to find inspiration outside the ag space without copying How storytelling gets stronger when you research well and ask better questions What gear is truly essential for travel-heavy livestock + event coverage How to balance video vs photo vs graphics so you’re not “making noise to make noise” The mindset shift Kelsey wishes she had earlier: confidence, tunnel vision, and less comparison Kelsey Vejraska — Audio Visual Specialist at the American Hereford Association, creating photo/video/design content for events, digital marketing, and on-farm features across the industry. Links mentioned: American Hereford Association (socials mentioned in episode) Sunny Okanagan Angus: @SunnyOKAngus (Kelsey noted this is the tag) Resources mentioned (tools, gear, books) Book Steal Like an Artist (Austin Kleon) Learning / inspiration YouTube (editing + skill-building) TikTok (especially for graphic design tips) Adobe MAX (conference she wants to attend) Gear (Kelsey’s essentials) Sony cameras: A7R series + A7S III (film-focused) Lenses: 70–200mm f/2.8, 24–70mm f/2.8, 85mm f/1.8 Audio: Rode shotgun mic (on-camera), Sony wired mics, DJI wireless mics (not her favorite) Drone (regularly used for variety/angles) Tripods: lightweight Manfrotto Cases: moving from Pelican to Condition One case (likes the wheels/handle/foam) Editing: Adobe Premiere (referenced) If this episode made you think “I want that job” or “I need to get better fast,” hit follow/subscribe on Club Cultivate so you don’t miss the next creator conversation.

    49 min

  3. FEB 18

    23. Social Media That Actually Serves Your Business with Taylor Caruso

    In this episode of the Club Cultivate Podcast, Whitney sits down with social media strategist Taylor Caruso to unpack what’s actually working in social media right now. From building content pillars and planning smarter, to using AI without losing authenticity, this conversation is a tactical and honest look at growing a business online without burning out. If you’ve ever wondered whether social media is “worth it” for your business or how to make it feel less chaotic, this episode is for you. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why content pillars are the foundation of a strong, sustainable social strategy How to blend personal and business content without confusing your audience What planning a month of content really looks like behind the scenes How to track whether social media is actually driving sales Where AI fits into your workflow (and where it shouldn’t) Why “create without consuming” might be your best strategy this year The biggest mindset shift Taylor had to make as a business owner Taylor Caruso Founder of Caruso & Co Marketing Taylor is a boutique social media strategist who works with small to mid-sized businesses across industries including hospitality, fitness, weddings, and personal brands. She specializes in building personalized strategies that prioritize authentic connection while driving measurable growth. Connect with Taylor: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carusoandcomarketing Wedding Content: https://www.instagram.com/blushingbridecontent Personal: https://www.instagram.com/taytaycaruso Resources Mentioned Vista Social – Social media scheduling + analytics platform ManyChat – Automation tool for tracking engagement and clicks Hot Smart Rich Podcast – Founder-focused business podcast The Market Podcast by Sauce Media – Social media + marketing conversations ChatGPT – AI tool for content brainstorming, ideation, and workflow efficiency Connect Follow along for weekly conversations with host, Whitney Dahmer as she visits with creatives in the agriculture and western industries! Instagram: @clubcultivate If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s working to grow their skills in this space.

    52 min

  4. FEB 11

    22. Stop the Scroll: How “Pretty Photos” Help Sell Livestock with Monica Hild

    In this episode of the Club Cultivate Podcast, Whitney Whitaker sits down with Monica Hild of Four Back Photography for a highly tactical conversation on livestock photography, specifically photographing and marketing sheep for online sales. Monica shares how she went from a science-minded animal health background to becoming a go-to sheep photographer, and breaks down the fundamentals every breeder and photographer needs to know, from camera settings and gear to ethical editing, picture-day prep, and why good imagery directly impacts livestock sales. Whether you’re a breeder taking your own photos or a creative looking to improve your livestock photography skills, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply immediately. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How Monica learned livestock photography through trial, error, and real business need Why understanding light and camera fundamentals matters more than expensive gear When auto settings work and when you must shoot manual Monica’s recommended camera gear for livestock photography How to photograph sheep so they read accurately and sell honestly What ethical editing looks like (and where the line should be drawn) Why professional photography builds buyer trust and credibility How breeders and photographers can better plan for picture day and sales timelines The importance of evaluating livestock, not just taking a “pretty” photo Guest Information Monica Hild Instagram: @fourbackphoto Website: fourbackphotography.com Facebook: Four Back Photography Resources Book: While You Were Out by Meg Kissinger Connect Follow along for weekly conversations with host, Whitney Dahmer as she visits with creatives in the agriculture and western industries! Instagram: @clubcultivate If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s working to grow their skills in this space.

    46 min

  5. FEB 4

    21. Behind the Lens: Livestock Photography with Joelynn Rathmann

    Summary In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, host Whitney Whitaker welcomes Joelynn Rathmann, a seasoned livestock photographer, to share her journey and insights into the world of photography within the livestock industry. Joelynn recounts her early fascination with photography, sparked by livestock shows in her childhood, and how she navigated her career path through various internships and experiences. She discusses the evolution of livestock photography, the importance of understanding livestock anatomy, and the balance between artistic expression and client expectations. Joelynn emphasizes the significance of building trust with clients and the emotional impact of photography on both the subjects and the audience. Keywords livestock photography, Joelynn Rathmann, Club Cultivate podcast, creative journey, photography tips, livestock shows, animal photography, career advice, photography evolution, client relationships Notable Quotes "You can teach anybody to take good pictures, but you cannot teach anybody how to understand livestock." "The second that you think that you are better than anybody at anything, you have lost." "It's important to learn by doing, watching, and asking questions." "You have to treat every participant like they are a grand champion, regardless of their actual placement." "The hardest part about backdrops is having that person trust you in a 30-second interaction." "You need to take those bad days as lessons, not as excuses to leave." "We're all supposed to be on the same team in this industry." "The people you impact and the relationships you build are what keep you going." "Stop trying to impress people; be yourself and find your own style." "You have to keep growing; it's the only way the industry will move forward." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joelynn Rathmann 01:06 Joelynn's Early Journey in Photography 04:41 Working with Show Champions 08:38 Learning the Craft of Photography 09:50 Understanding Livestock vs. Photography Skills 12:32 Navigating Flattering Angles in Photography 13:19 Challenges in Livestock Photography 13:28 Backdrop vs. On-Farm Photography 15:21 Building Trust with Clients 17:29 Customer Service in Photography 18:25 Creating Memorable Experiences in Photography 20:19 The Emotional Impact of Photography 22:34 Navigating Competition in the Photography Industry 27:32 The Future of Photography and Video at Shows 29:58 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Photographers

    37 min

  6. 12/17/2025

    20. How to Plan Your Year (with visuals on YouTube)

    Whitney shares the exact system she uses to plan her year as a creative business owner—using a simple Google Sheets framework to turn big goals into monthly and weekly action. In this episode, we cover: Why goals matter (and how they help during chaotic seasons) Starting with a 5–10 year vision and working backwards Choosing your “Core Four” pillars for the year The difference between income goals vs. performance goals Building a yearly calendar so nothing gets missed Turning the yearly plan into monthly + weekly execution The “rocks, pebbles, sand” analogy for real prioritization Why “non-negotiables first” is a game-changer for consistency Want the template? DM Whitney on Instagram and she’ll share the Google Sheets template. Check out the Club Cultivate YouTube Channel to follow along visually too!

    30 min

  7. 12/10/2025

    19. Balancing Multi-Passionate Creativity and Business Strategy with Sweet Briar Creative

    In this episode of Club Cultivate, Whitney sits down with Alyssa Walsh, founder of Sweet Briar Creative, to talk about building a creative business in the ag industry. From starting a simple college portfolio to running a full-time branding and video studio, Alyssa shares how she’s refined her services, protected her time, and built a brand that actually works for her life and her clients. In this episode, we talk about: How Alyssa went from AgCom student to full-time creative business owner The evolution of Sweet Briar Creative from “try everything” to clear offers and buckets Why she stepped away from ad design to focus on branding, brand books and video What makes a strong brand beyond the logo—fonts, colors, tone, and consistency Using brand pillars to show up with intention on social instead of posting just to post Hiring support, setting boundaries, and structuring your week as a creative entrepreneur A simple 30-day exercise for taking one small step toward a big goal every day Connect with Alyssa Website: sweetbriarcreative.com Instagram: @sweetbriarcreative Connect with Whitney / Club Cultivate Instagram: @clubcultivate

    1h 2m

  8. 12/03/2025

    18. Inside Agency Life: Fast-Paced Lessons from Tanner Kersey-Lopez

    In this episode of Club Cultivate, Whitney sits down with Tanner Kersey-Lopez, a California native and Oklahoma State University alum whose career path has taken him from the show ring to the world of agricultural public relations. Now an Account Supervisor at Bader Rutter, Tanner shares his journey through FFA, OSU’s ag-comm program, grad school during COVID, and into the fast-moving world of agency life—where collaboration, creativity, and communication meet. They dive into what “earned media” really means, how agency teams function behind the scenes, the balance between billable hours and creative flow, and how to build a career that aligns with both passion and purpose. Highlights: Why Tanner switched from animal science to ag comm—and never looked back What agency structure really looks like (and why specialization matters) How PR, social, and creative teams collaborate in big ag agencies The truth about time sheets, boundaries, and self-accountability Tips for young professionals on asking better questions, finding mentors, and taking risks Grace, growth, and the reminder that nothing is permanent

    55 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Club Cultivate is dedicated to empowering young creative professionals in the agricultural and western industries through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Information

  • Creator
    Whitney Whitaker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Club Cultivate

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