Episode Summary:Welcome back to another episode of "Minding My Creative Business," the top podcast where creative entrepreneurs come to get real-world strategies, structure, and self-development tips for building businesses that last. In today’s episode, hosts ShySpeaks and Ron "iRonic" Lee Jr. are joined by the multi-talented Sir J—a creative at heart, entrepreneur, and owner of not one, not two, but three thriving companies. From humble beginnings as "Sergey the DJ," Sir J takes us through his journey of scaling a freelance gig into a six-figure business, building value through smart add-ons, and ultimately making the leap to true entrepreneurship by launching separate entities and acquiring new brands. We’ll get the inside scoop on how Sir J turned music, events, and signage into a network of interconnected businesses, all while balancing faith, family, and the ever-present drive to help others level up. You’ll hear essential lessons about moving from freelancer to business owner, the power of mentorship and networking, and the behind-the-scenes realities of legal hurdles, acquisitions, and building sustainable systems. Whether you’re a DJ, an artist, or just someone looking to monetize your creative skill set, this episode is packed with actionable insights—and a whole lot of inspiration. So, lean in, get ready to take notes, and discover how intention, consistency, and laser focus can help you mind your creative business! Timestamped overview00:00 Creative Entrepreneur Spotlight 03:42 Balancing Family, Business, and Goals 09:21 "Expanding DJ Business with Add-Ons" 11:35 Increasing DJ Revenue Strategically 13:24 DJ Services Business Expansion 18:59 "Creative Shift: Freelance to Entrepreneur" 22:21 "Empowering Success Through Goal-Setting" 26:02 Collaborative Creativity and Impact 29:32 Trademark Conflict Challenges Business Name 30:47 Mentorship Beyond Technical Skills 33:43 "Understanding DFW360 Service Activation" 37:26 Monthly NACE Meetings and Networking 41:57 Rapid Fire Creative Business Tips 45:30 "Capital Access for Business Growth" 48:19 Negotiation Insight: ESPN Deal Experience 50:32 CRM Importance and Industry Specificity 53:28 Opportunities for DJs and Creatives Key topics and bullets1. Introduction of the Podcast & GuestWelcome and overview of the podcast’s focus (strategy, structure, self-development for creators)Introduction of Sir J as the episode’s guestSir J’s personal introduction (faith, family, creativity)Establishing Sir J’s credibility (owns three companies, six-figure entrepreneur) 2. Foundations of Sir J’s Business JourneyBrief background of Sir J’s beginnings as a DJUniversity background and entry into DJingTransition from freelance DJ to establishing an LLCComparing income: teaching vs. DJing and decision to go full-time entrepreneur 3. Scaling Up as a Creative EntrepreneurIdentifying value-adding opportunities within the businessFrom $800 gigs to $1,600+ via add-ons (lighting, monograms, photo booths)Importance of investment in quality equipmentTransition from freelancer to business ownerCreating systems and entities (not just working a job)Building a separate photo booth company (DFW360 booth) as standalone 4. Mentorship, Networking, and Community BuildingRole of mentorship in Sir J’s growthKey mentor figures (e.g., DJ Bowtie, DJ Tagman)The importance of networking and collaboratingLeveraging industry connections for learning and opportunitiesMembership and leadership roles in...
