The Den Lennie Show

Den Lennie
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Strategic insights for production company owners ready to scale past $250K. Real conversations with successful CEOs about systems, profitability, and sustainable growth. #JFDI

  1. JUN 16

    Clients Aren’t Buying Talent Anymore- Here’s What They Are Buying (And How to Sell It)

    Send us a text In this no-fluff solo episode, Den dives deep into how AI is reshaping the video production landscape—and why boutique creatives risk being left behind if they keep relying on talent alone. The punchline? In today’s market, positioning beats talent. You’ll hear why clients are increasingly drawn to perceived certainty, scalable systems, and strategic partners—not just slick reels or cinematic flair. If you’re stuck between $100K–$500K in revenue and wondering why cheaper, less skilled vendors are landing your dream clients, this episode is your wake-up call. Key takeaways: AI is not the enemy—mediocre positioning is. Most video producers are using AI to “speed up,” but that’s not enough. You need to reposition yourself as a strategic advisor, not a faster executor.The boutique advantage. Smaller studios can move faster, educate better, and stake out high-value niches—but only if you act now.The new competitive threat. You’re not just competing with other creatives—you’re competing with tools, templates, and Maddie in marketing with a ring light and ChatGPT.What clients really want. They’re not shopping for video—they’re shopping for outcomes, certainty, and leadership. If they don’t “get” your value, they’ll default to DIY or cheaper options.Niching is non-negotiable. In 2025 and beyond, generalists will get lost in the noise. Your expertise must be clear, specific, and packaged into a value-driven offer.Be a category of one. Whether you become an “AI-Ready Brand Strategist” or a “Hybrid Content Partner,” the opportunity is to lead your niche—not follow the tools.If you're ready to stop competing on price and start commanding premium rates, this episode is your blueprint. It’s not about more gear or talent—it’s about clarity, positioning, and seizing your first-mover advantage before it disappears. 🎯 Ready to lead in an AI-driven market? Subscribe now or visit www.thevideomentors.com for coaching programs that help you scale your video business with strategy, not stress. Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    12 min

  2. JUN 10

    Why Most Creatives Will Be Replaced by AI (and What the Smart Ones Are Doing Now) Ep #372

    Send us a text “AI is coming for your job — and if you think it’s not, you’re kidding yourself. But here’s the thing… while most filmmakers are sipping piña coladas on the beach, pretending the sea’s calm, I’m telling you,  there’s a tsunami coming. In today’s episode, I break down exactly where AI can’t replace you — and more importantly, how to start using it now to gain a massive competitive edge. If you want to be a first mover,  not a casualty,  this one’s for you.” (And if you’re serious about future-proofing your business, hit subscribe  we’re just getting started.) Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    14 min

  3. MAY 30

    Did AI Just Take Over My Podcast? Let’s Talk About It… EP #371

    Send us a text Den addresses the elephant in the room after posting an AI-generated episode that fooled most of his audience.  He breaks down why AI will disrupt the video production industry but won't replace it entirely, using the analogy of synthesizers in music - powerful tools that still require expertise to master. Key insights covered: Why clients having AI tools doesn't threaten skilled videographersHow to get ahead of the curve instead of hiding from changeThe biggest opportunity: using AI to handle admin and marketing tasksWhy your feast-or-famine cycle exists (and how AI can fix it)The 3 Ds of business and the 7-hour, 11-touchpoint buyer journeyPractical ways AI can work as your 24/7 virtual assistantDen shares real examples from VBA clients who are already leveraging AI for content creation, lead generation, and business growth - without losing their human edge. Podcast Description AI disruption is here. Are you ready? After posting an AI-generated episode that went largely undetected, Den dives deep into what this means for videographers and video business owners. In this episode, you'll discover:  ✅ Why AI won't replace videographers (but will change everything)  ✅ The fatal flaw in thinking "this will never affect my business"  ✅ How to use AI as your 24/7 business development tool  ✅ Why you're stuck in feast-or-famine (and the AI solution)  ✅ Real strategies VBA clients are using to scale with AI Don't get left behind. The videographers who embrace AI strategically will dominate the next decade.  Those who don't... well, they'll be competing on price forever. Ready to future-proof your video business? This episode shows you exactly how. Subscribe for weekly no-BS strategies to scale your video business and join 100+ videographers already implementing these systems in the VBA community. Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    11 min

  4. MAY 21

    Burnt Out & Underpaid? Why Most Videographers Stay Stuck (Until They Do This) EP #370

    Send us a text You’re working 70-hour weeks, juggling clients, edits, marketing, wondering why it still feels like you're barely keeping your head above water. Sound familiar? In this deep dive with our new hosts, Kai Mercer and Blake Juno, we unpack exactly why so many talented videographers get trapped in the feast-or-famine cycle, and how you can break free without turning into a pushy salesman.  If you’re an introvert or just tired of the hustle, this one’s for you.  We’re diving into the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts behind real, sustainable growth.  Let’s get into it Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    10 min
  5. He blew up the Death Star - And Taught Me This Life-Changing Business Lesson! EP #369

    APR 29

    He blew up the Death Star - And Taught Me This Life-Changing Business Lesson! EP #369

    Send us a text This week's episode is a personal one. Den shares the incredible story of Bruce Logan ASC - the man behind the Death Star explosion in Star Wars — and the humbling lessons he learned from working with him. But it’s not just about nostalgia. Den also pulls no punches about the real state of the video industry in 2025: budget cuts, slower sales cycles, and why many creative businesses are quietly collapsing without realizing it. You'll learn why "good enough" might actually save your business this year... and why community, mentorship, and adaptability are more critical than ever. If you’re serious about building a sustainable creative business — especially in a tougher market — this episode is unmissable. 🎥 Watch the behind-the-scenes footage of Bruce’s project for Sony, coming soon to YouTube. ➡️ Ready for real business support? DM Den on Instagram @den_lennie or email den@denlennie.com. Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    15 min

  6. APR 24

    Why I’m Giving Away $10K of Training for Free EP#368

    Send us a text After three decades behind the camera, I’ve made a big call… In this episode, I’m announcing something I’ve never done before: I’m releasing my entire archive of foundational training , shooting, lighting, camera operation, all for free on YouTube. These trainings once sold for thousands. Now, they’re yours to learn from, build on, and share. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game a while, this is the kind of practical, real-world knowledge you won’t find on TikTok tutorials. Inside this episode: Why I’m giving away 30 years of production experienceWhat's inside the Videographer Foundation Series (now on YouTube)The difference between gear knowledge and storytelling skillHow you can apply for a $2,000 scholarship to join the VBA Uplevel program if you're in a regional areaThis is about giving back and helping the next wave of filmmakers stop guessing and start growing. 🎥 Check out the free training: [Search “Den Lennie The Video Mentors” on YouTube]  🎓 Apply for a scholarship: DM “SCHOLARSHIP” on Instagram @denlennie or email den@thevideomentors.com Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    13 min

  7. APR 7

    The 1-4-8 Rule That Changed Everything: How Matt Smolen Scaled Balloon Tree Without Burning Out EP#367

    Send us a text Ever feel like your video business is stuck in survival mode, feast or famine, no time to breathe, and definitely no time to grow? In this episode, Den sits down with Matt Smolen, founder of Balloon Tree Productions, to uncover the surprisingly simple system that helped him go from an overwhelmed solo freelancer to running a thriving 5-person team, operating out of a slick Melbourne studio. Matt reveals: The 1-4-8 rule that created consistent monthly revenueHow he finally stopped micromanaging and started leadingWhy he ditched the traditional niche and leaned into his unique creative styleThe mindset shift that let him build a business that supports his life—not consumes itIf you’re ready to stop doing everything yourself and start building something sustainable (and fun), this episode is a must-listen. 👉 Want more behind-the-scenes lessons from real video business owners? Subscribe and leave a review, it helps us help more creatives like you. Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    54 min

  8. MAR 31

    From $25K to $500K: How Caleb Transformed His Video Business - EP#366

    Send us a text In this inspiring conversation, Den Lennie sits down with Caleb Maxwell from Hebron Films to unpack the real, behind-the-scenes journey of growing a video production business from a struggling startup to a thriving six-figure operation.  Caleb shares the raw truths of making just $25K a year, hitting revenue ceilings, and the pivotal role coaching played in scaling up to $500K.  This episode explores what it really takes to grow sustainably in the creative industry, from overcoming limiting beliefs about money to building a purpose-driven business (and family). If you're a videographer, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur feeling stuck, this episode is your roadmap to aligned, strategic growth, with a whole lot of heart. Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com  Support the show Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie www.thevideomentors.com

    46 min
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About

Strategic insights for production company owners ready to scale past $250K. Real conversations with successful CEOs about systems, profitability, and sustainable growth. #JFDI

Information

  • Creator
    Den Lennie
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    372
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Den Lennie/F-Stop Academy Australia
  • Show Website
    The Den Lennie Show