Minding My Creative Business Podcast

Ron "Ironic" Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks

MMCB Podcast helps you embrace the business of creativity! Every week, go with Ron "iRonic" Lee and ShySpeaks behind the brand of some of the most wildly successful creative entrepreneurs. You'll be sure to gain access to the strategy and structure that turn creative arts into viable 6, 7, and even 8 figure businesses! Trust us, you're not the only _____ (*insert your creative genius here*) that struggled with generating a full-time income from your skillset and passion. But musician, photographer, designer, etc. all over the world have embrace the power of information, implemented business principles & systems, and moved from creatives to CEOs thereby turning their passion into profits. Say this out loud: All it takes is intention, consistency, and laser-focus to Mind My Creative Business!

  1. AI Isn’t Replacing You, But Creatives Who USE AI Will: Data, Tools & CEO Mindset

    4 天前

    AI Isn’t Replacing You, But Creatives Who USE AI Will: Data, Tools & CEO Mindset

    AI isn’t replacing creatives, those who embrace AI are. In this eye‑opening episode of Minding My Creative Business, hosts Ron “iRonic” Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks chat with Kierra Dotson, an AI engineer, data conversationalist and entrepreneur. They explore how creative business owners can leverage data and AI to work smarter, not harder. A 2025 survey found that AI adoption among small businesses jumped from 39 % to 55 % in a year, with 80 % of users saying AI is essential for reaching new customers. Kierra explains why now is the time to join that movement and build AI into your workflow. You’ll learn how both product and service‑based businesses can collect, analyze and act on data to boost sales and customer engagement. Kierra shares her favorite AI tools—from generative design platforms like Adobe Express and Descript to customer‑service bots like Freshdesk and CRM assistants like Salesforce’s Agentforce Assistant—that make marketing, inventory management and video editing easier. She also highlights ethical challenges such as algorithmic bias—like how past AI systems have favored male résumés or misidentified women of color and offers strategies to ensure fairness through diverse data and oversight. The conversation covers advanced topics like generative AI SEO and “AI Overviews,” which now appear in nearly half of search results, why only a few companies are realizing extraordinary value from AI and how a disciplined, top‑down strategy can unlock transformation; and how to adopt a CEO mindset by reviewing your metrics, systematizing creativity, and embracing PGR (Purpose, Growth, Rest). Whether you’re a boutique owner or a videographer, this episode will help you harness AI and data while staying human at the core. 🕒 Episode Chapters 0:00 – Empowering early AI adoption 4:49 – Everyday AI applications explained 9:18 – AI ethics: inclusion and bias 12:55 – Data drives business success 14:56 – Leveraging data for business insights 16:43 – AI for R&D and growth 22:29 – Optimize captions & analyze insights 26:20 – Optimizing service businesses with data 29:09 – Creative event planning tips 32:46 – Understanding metrics and traffic insights 34:27 – AI‑adapting job descriptions 39:18 – Using AI for trend analysis 41:08 – Creative ideation and event planning 45:24 – “Loable”: fast, secure startup tool 48:49 – Personalized shopping simplified 50:40 – Strategic AI development framework 53:54 – AI, business, and transformation 🔑 Key Points • Why AI matters now: A 2025 survey found AI usage among small businesses surged 41 % in a year, and 80 % of users say it’s essential for customer growth. Companies implementing AI wisely are seeing savings of 20 + hours per month and $500–$2,000 monthly • Make AI work for you: Tools like Adobe Express, Descript, Freshdesk Freddy AI Copilot, Salesforce Agentforce Assistant and Microsoft 365 Copilot help creatives design marketing assets, edit videos, automate customer service, and analyze data without technical expertise • Data ethics and inclusivity: Past AI systems have reinforced bias (e.g., Amazon’s hiring algorithm favoring male résumés and image recognition misidentifying women of color). Kiara discusses building inclusive data sets, diverse teams, and responsible AI frameworks. • AI‑driven search & SEO: AI Overviews appear in nearly half of search results. Optimize content for conversational queries and generative engine optimization. • CEO mindset: Move from creator to CEO by setting clear goals, measuring what matters, and adopting a PGR framework (Purpose, Growth, Rest). A top‑down, disciplined AI strategy and focused workflows are key to transformative value. 🔗 Links & Resources: • Creative to CEO Challenge:...

    59 分鐘
  2. Talent Isn’t Enough. VALUE Yourself.

    2月2日

    Talent Isn’t Enough. VALUE Yourself.

    Talent alone won’t build a thriving business—you must value yourself and your craft. In this episode of Minding My Creative Business, hosts Ron “iRonic” Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks sit down with acclaimed photographer Tolulope Berry (T Berry Pictures) to explore how he turned a gift from his mother into a flourishing photography empire. The conversation covers valuing your work, building sustainable systems, and adopting a CEO mindset. In today’s creative economy, passion isn’t enough: a 2025 report notes that design services remain in high demand but that agencies must embrace new tools and strategic pricing to stay competitive. Another 2025 article warns that designers often underprice their services and need business literacy to defend their worth. You’ll hear how Tolulope transitioned from hobbyist to professional by investing in his skills, pricing based on value, and creating clear client processes. He shares systems for client on-boarding, contracts, and file delivery that help maintain integrity and reliability. The hosts also discuss why “slow motion is better than no motion,” how networking and signature edits attract premium clients, and why building a team (re-toucher, manager, assistant, lawyer) is essential for scaling. The conversation highlights the broader industry context: as digital transformation opens doors, competition intensifies and creatives must balance artistry with business strategy. Studies show that 36 % of businesses hired freelance designers in the past year and that thriving agencies integrate strategy consulting (81 %), copy writing (77 %) and AI tools to remain relevant. Embracing this mindset will help you build a sustainable, scalable and enjoyable creative career. 🕒 Episode Chapters 0:00 – From hobby to photography business 4:44 – Learning photography through experimentation 8:38 – Valuing myself and my craft 11:22 – Reaching a sustainable salary 15:59 – AI revolutionizes networking efficiency 1 9:20 – Client experience and workflow process 21:42 – Photo rights and editing process 23:23 – Integrity in client experience 26:32 – Favorite editing & upload tools 30:29 – Talent vs. intangibles balance 33:04 – Vibes matter in creative work 37:31 – Teamwork gets the job done 39:48 – Creative to CEO challenge 44:56 – Embracing growth through discomfort 49:39 – Training & duplication insights 52:03 – Creative to CEO challenge 53:22 – End with self and mantra 🔑 Key Points Value and pricing: Too many designers undercharge for their services, undermining themselves and the industry. Tolu shares how valuing your time, skill and learning lets you attract higher-paying clients and why value‑based pricing beats hourly rates. Business literacy and mindset: In 2025’s digital landscape, creative professionals need business skills to survive. Tolu emphasizes systems—contracts, SOPs, clear communication—and the importance of treating your craft like a business. Industry trends: The creative economy is dynamic and competitive; 36 % of businesses hired freelance designers in the past year, and agencies are adding strategy consulting and copy writing to meet demand. Embracing AI and efficient tools is essential, though 35 % of agencies worry about AI compromising creative quality. Balancing talent with intangibles: Technical skill matters, but so do communication, reliability and positive energy. Building a team and investing in relationships turns good work into great business. 🔗 Links & Resources:...

    57 分鐘
  3. Top Tech Entrepreneur Shares Secrets to Empowering Young Minds

    1月26日

    Top Tech Entrepreneur Shares Secrets to Empowering Young Minds

    In this podcast episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Shadira Nesmith, co-founder of Stacked Up Academy, who passionately advocates for early exposure of youth to technology and essential skills such as financial literacy and coding. With a wealth of experience in the educational technology sector, Shadira articulates her commitment to bridging the gap for students, ensuring they acquire relevant skills that will empower them in their future endeavors. We explore the innovative initiatives she has introduced, including engaging products designed for young learners, and her vision for the upcoming Stacked Up Con, a conference aimed at immersing children in the world of technology. Through her insights, we aim to highlight the importance of nurturing confidence in both young learners and adult professionals as they navigate the evolving landscape of technology. Join us as we unpack the significance of intentionality, community engagement, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a tech-driven world. Takeaways: The significance of early exposure to technology is paramount for children's future success.Building confidence in students is essential for their development in tech-related fields.Stacked Up Academy provides engaging learning experiences for youth, integrating coding and financial literacy.Creativity in teaching methods, such as nursery rhymes, fosters a deeper understanding of complex terms.Networking and outreach are vital for expanding opportunities within educational programs.Focusing on specific age groups allows for the development of tailored educational materials and experiences. Links referenced in this episode: credit Savant I.Ostackedupacademy.comstackedupcon.comblackgirlscode.com Additional Links & Resources: • Creative to CEO Challenge: https://creativetoceochallenge.com/ – gain clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income. • Business Funding: https://creditsavant.io/ – secure funding for your creative business. • Creativepreneur Gear: https://whatstheirony.com/ – apparel for the creative entrepreneur. • Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at https://mmcbpodcast.com/ for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes. 👥 Connect with Shadeira • Facebook: @StackedUpAcademy • Instagram: @StackedUpAcademy • TikTok: @StackedUpAcademy • Website: StackedUpAcademy.com 👍 Join Our Community • Listen to the show: https://feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast/ • Website & inquiries: https://mmcbpodcast.com/ | hello@mmcbpodcast.com • Follow us: • Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness • Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness • TikTok: @mindingmycreativebusiness...

    1 小時 2 分鐘
  4. The Cost of Skipping These Meetings: What Creatives Don't Realize

    1月19日

    The Cost of Skipping These Meetings: What Creatives Don't Realize

    Our latest podcast episode dives into the creative journey, offering insights for every creative professional looking to build an online business. We discuss effective business strategy and the power of collaboration within the industry. It's all about navigating the path to becoming a successful entrepreneur. 🕒 Episode Chapters: 0:00 – Team sync for social media 5:50 – Establishing rhythm & planning 6:46 – Efficient one‑hour meeting plan 11:57 – Self‑audit for continuous improvement 13:30 – Efficient meetings for progress 16:40 – Collaborative spaces & meeting tracking 19:20 – Improving communication through meetings 22:53 – Quarterly meeting overview 27:57 – Monthly meeting feedback process 29:31 – Building an enjoyable work culture 34:58 – Creative CEO Challenge insights 36:17 – Creator to CEO Challenge 39:01 – Thank you & your voice 🔑 Key Points • Why meeting rhythms matter: A well‑designed cadence sets a predictable rhythm, improving accountability and reducing miscommunication. It’s a drumbeat that keeps your team synchronized. • The Four P’s of meetings: Define Purpose, invite only the right People, follow a clear Process (agenda) and focus on the Product/Payoff. This structure turns meetings into decision‑making sessions, not time drains. • Daily, weekly, monthly & quarterly cadences: Daily huddles align teams and identify blockers; weekly meetings dive deeper; monthly and quarterly meetings review KPIs, budgets and strategy. Adjust frequency to match workload and avoid meeting fatigue. • Create culture & accountability: Consistent cadence fosters open communication, collaboration and a sense of responsibility. • Optimize meetings: Consolidate ad‑hoc chats into fewer, longer sessions, standardize agendas and start small if your team resists structure. Use meeting analytics to track effectiveness and adjust over time. 🔗 Links & Resources: • Creative to CEO Challenge: https://creativetoceochallenge.com/ – gain clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income. • Business Funding: https://creditsavant.io/ – secure funding for your creative business. • Creativepreneur Gear: https://whatstheirony.com/ – apparel for the creative entrepreneur. • Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at https://mmcbpodcast.com/ for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes. 👍 Join Our Community: • Listen to the show: https://feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast/ • Website & inquiries: https://mmcbpodcast.com | email: hello@mmcbpodcast.com Follow us: • Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness • Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness • TikTok: @mindingmycreativebusiness We’re Ron & ShySpeaks, music industry creators turned entrepreneurs. Each week we share insights, mistakes and strategies to help creative professionals build small businesses and scale like CEOs. Comment with your biggest takeaway, like if you found value and subscribe for more creative entrepreneur tips!

    43 分鐘
  5. From Burnout to Breakthrough: The CEO Mindset for Creatives

    1月12日

    From Burnout to Breakthrough: The CEO Mindset for Creatives

    Join hosts ShySpeak and Ron Lee Jr. as they dive into a compelling conversation with Terry Williams, a Harvard-trained neuroscience and mindset coach. This episode explores the transition from running a successful fitness business to becoming an executive mindset coach. Terry shares invaluable insights into building a growth mindset, understanding life purpose, and the importance of rest for high performance. Learn how to pivot in your career, leverage public speaking to gain executive contracts, and sustain a balanced, fulfilling life. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs ready to stop hustling for clients and start building a purpose-driven, profitable business. Takeaways: The distinction between a fixed mindset, which views circumstances as a ceiling, and a growth mindset, which perceives circumstances as opportunities, is crucial for creative entrepreneurs.Understanding core values is paramount, as they not only guide personal success but also influence professional achievements in the entrepreneurial journey.The integration of rest and recovery into an entrepreneur's life is essential for sustainability and long-term success, countering the pervasive grind culture.Engaging in the creation process, whether through fitness or art, fosters a deeper connection to one's inner child, enhancing both personal satisfaction and professional output.The significance of curiosity over ego in entrepreneurship cannot be overstated; it allows for exploration and adaptability in the face of changing circumstances.Lastly, documenting one's journey and sharing it with a wider audience can amplify one's impact, transitioning from a personal narrative to collective empowerment for others. 🔗 Links & Resources Creative to CEO Challenge: creativetoceochallenge.com – get clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income Business Funding: creditsavnt.com – secure funding for your creative business Creativepreneur Gear: whatstheirony.com – apparel for the creative entrepreneur Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at MMCBPodcast.com for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes Connect with Terry Williams Facebook: @terrywilliams Instagram: @itsterrywilliams Threads: @itsterrywilliams Join Our Community Listen to the show: feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast Website & inquiries: mmcbpodcast.com | hello@mmcbpodcast.com Follow us: Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness TikTok:...

    1 小時 17 分鐘
  6. From Intern to Media Icon: A Creativepreneur's Real Story

    1月5日

    From Intern to Media Icon: A Creativepreneur's Real Story

    From Media Icon to Creative CEO: Jaleah's Entrepreneurial Journey In this episode of Minding My Creative Business podcast, hosts Ron and ShySpeaks sit down with Jaleah Davis, a self-proclaimed media icon, to discuss her inspiring journey from eighth grade media enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur. Jaleah opens up about her ventures including her television network - Eyeconic Television, her production studio, and the Eyeconic Academy. She also shares valuable insights on leveraging interns, her strategies for growth, and the importance of constant evolution. Jaleah's story is a testament to the power of vision, persistence, and the right support systems. The episode wraps up with an invitation to the Creative to CEO Challenge aimed at helping creative entrepreneurs find clarity and build profitable businesses. What You’ll Learn: • The mindset shifts and business systems that fuel rapid growth. • How to build a brand from the ground up and launch your own TV network. • Tips for partnering, securing funding, and managing creative teams. • Why collaboration, mentorship, and releasing perfectionism accelerate success. Episode Chapters: 0:00 – From janitor to media expert 8:29 – Quitting over chaos and dreams 11:08 – Turning creativity into income 20:15 – Streaming transition & channel closure 25:01 – Airtime media advertising overview 28:31 – Creative process & collaboration 36:42 – Selling TV ad blocks 40:51 – Creating & owning your studio 44:52 – From warehouse to event space 48:03 – Creative space & inspiration 55:23 – Finding my fit & vision 1:02:05 – Maximizing content across platforms 1:08:23 – Managing creativity & growth 1:10:42 – Creativepreneur affirmations & growth Links & Resources: • Creative to CEO Challenge: creativetoceochallenge.com – get clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income • Business Funding: creditsavnt.com – secure funding for your creative business • Creativepreneur Gear: whatstheirony.com – apparel for the creative entrepreneur • Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at MMCBPodcast.com for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes Connect with Jaleah: • Facebook: @MediaEyecon • Instagram: @mediaeyecon • Website: eyeconictelevision.com Join Our Community: • Listen to the show: feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast • Website & inquiries: mmcbpodcast.com | hello@mmcbpodcast.com • Follow us: • Facebook: @mindingmycreativebusiness • Instagram: @mindingmycreativebusiness • TikTok: @mindingmycreativebusiness We’re Ron & ShySpeaks—two music industry creators marching to the beat of entrepreneurship. Each week we share insights, mistakes, and strategies to help creative professionals build small businesses and scale like CEOs. Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway, like if you found value, and subscribe for more creative entrepreneur tips!

    1 小時 12 分鐘
  7. 2025/09/08

    Creative Business EXPERTS Reveal Top Strategies for Entrepreneurship Advice (Season 4 Recap)

    Welcome to a special episode of the Minding My Creative Business podcast, where we’re celebrating the end of an incredible Season 4 with a live recap! Join your hosts, ShySpeaks and Ron "iRonic" Lee Jr., as they reflect on four seasons and over 33 episodes of inspiring conversations, candid challenges, and major wins in the world of creative entrepreneurship. In this episode, we revisit some of our favorite moments and insights from a diverse lineup of creative trailblazers—including salon owners, DJs, media moguls, choreographers, PR pros, and more. Whether you’re a veteran creativepreneur or just starting on your business journey, discover the gems our guests dropped about niching down, scaling with systems, finding mentorship, building teams, leveraging associations, collaborating across industries, and embracing self-development. Tune in for key takeaways, practical strategies, and a whole lot of love for this thriving community of movers, makers, and visionaries. Plus, if you’re joining us live, you’ll have a chance to interact, ask questions, and become part of the creative conversation. Let’s recap, grow, and get ready to level up for Season 5—because all it takes is laser focus, consistency, and intention to mind your creative business! Time Stamped Overview: 00:00 Perseverance Through Podcast Seasons 09:07 Streamlining Business Processes Efficiently 13:38 The Importance of a CPA 18:01 Michigan Black Business Association Shoutout 22:30 Empowering Teams: Scaling Success 29:59 "Passion and Career Alignment" 32:19 Magazine Sales Strategy Revealed 38:33 Media Growth through Collaboration 42:38 Boost Sales with Social Media Management 49:30 Job Form Features Mini Podcast 54:23 Stay Connected with Simple Gestures 01:00:53 "Boosting Restaurant Sales Tactics" 01:05:48 Join Our Creative Entrepreneur Community 01:08:23 "Locate My Creative Business" Links & Resources: [Business Funding] (https://www.creditsavnt.com) - Get your creative business funded through Credit Savant. [Creativepreneur Gear] (https://www.whatstheirony.com) - Get your creative entrepreneur apparel from What's the Irony. If you want to connect with Faith or explore her services, check out The Divine Creators Co. on Instagram. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Minding My Creative Business Podcast! We hope you found valuable insights and strategies to apply to your own creative journey. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Stay tuned for more enriching discussions and expert advice in our upcoming episodes. Keep creating and stay inspired! THE CREATIVE’S CORNER NEWSLETTER 📫 Gain monthly access to motivational tips & practical steps that will shift the way you think and operate in business - in 5 minutes or less. Sign up: MMCBPodcast.com LISTEN TO THE SHOW https://feeds.captivate.fm/mmcbpodcast/ GET IN TOUCH 🌍 Our website: www.mmcbpodcast.com 🌍 Work with us: hello@mmcbpodcast.com JOIN OUR COMMUNITY 📡 Facebook: / / / mindingmycreativebusiness 📸 Instagram: / / / mindingmycreativebusiness ABOUT US We’re Ron & ShySpeaks, two music industry creators marching to the tune of entrepreneurship. Our goal is to help our creative peers keep in step by taking them behind the brands of some of wildly successful creative entrepreneurs. Our interview-styled podcast

    1 小時 9 分鐘
  8. Team-Building, Vibe Creation, and Profit: Winning Formulas in Creativepreneurship

    2025/08/25

    Team-Building, Vibe Creation, and Profit: Winning Formulas in Creativepreneurship

    EPISODE SUMMARY: Welcome back to Minding My Creative Business, the go-to podcast for creative entrepreneurs ready to level up their strategy, structure, and self-development. In this episode, hosts Ron “iRonic” Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks shine a spotlight on a side of creative business that doesn’t get nearly enough love: event curation—with a twist of culinary arts. We’re joined by Eric Grayson, Dallas native, event promoter-turned-creative-director, and co-owner of The Five Bistro, a thriving hub known not just for its delicious Southern comfort cuisine, but for curating unique, immersive experiences every night of the week. Eric shares the secrets behind transforming a local bistro into a creative powerhouse, where great food meets great vibes and every night tells a different story. From building a diverse, loyal audience and leveraging data for strategic marketing, to the financial realities and team dynamics of successful event curation, you’ll hear real-world insights on profit-sharing, scaling niche events, and creating revenue streams beyond ticket sales. Eric drops actionable gems for anyone in the restaurant, arts, or event world—plus, he reveals how creative collaboration and evolving with technology (hello, AI and POV marketing!) are changing the game for entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a fellow creative, aspiring event curator, or just trying to mind your own creative business, this episode is packed with strategies, inspiration, and a few laughs you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive in! Timestamped overview: 00:00 Creative Southern Dining Experience 05:10 High-Energy DJ Orchestrates Entertainment 08:07 Empowering Future Leaders 10:58 "Creating a Captivating Vibe" 12:48 Creative Strategies for Customer Spending 17:05 After-Hours Spin Minimum Pricing 21:58 Revamping Business Through Influential Promotion 23:04 Director of Marketing and Management 26:20 Grassroots Festival Promotion in Dallas 31:43 Embrace AI for Marketing Innovation 33:29 "Niche Storytelling with Posh" 37:39 Successful Business Partnerships & Ownership 39:36 Profit Through Creative Collaboration 43:27 Dynamic Ticket Pricing Strategy 47:57 Creative Marketing and Event Experience 51:46 "Embrace Profit Sharing Mentality" 54:45 "Join the Creative Scoring Community" 55:49 "Speak Up and Repeat" Takeaways: Eric Grayson elucidates the significance of food as a mere entry point into an immersive experiential atmosphere, emphasizing culinary excellence as merely the bait for a deeper engagement with patrons.The essence of event curation lies in the ability to craft distinct experiences each night, thereby fostering a diverse clientele that returns regularly for varied programming.Leveraging data and analytics is pivotal in understanding audience demographics, which can then be utilized for targeted marketing strategies and enhancing customer engagement.Creative collaboration amongst team members is essential; however, it is crucial to establish boundaries to prevent depletion of personal resources while nurturing professional relationships.Profit-sharing arrangements with collaborators can mitigate upfront costs, allowing for a more sustainable approach to event management and execution.Adapting to technological advancements, such as utilizing AI and social media for marketing, is essential

    57 分鐘

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簡介

MMCB Podcast helps you embrace the business of creativity! Every week, go with Ron "iRonic" Lee and ShySpeaks behind the brand of some of the most wildly successful creative entrepreneurs. You'll be sure to gain access to the strategy and structure that turn creative arts into viable 6, 7, and even 8 figure businesses! Trust us, you're not the only _____ (*insert your creative genius here*) that struggled with generating a full-time income from your skillset and passion. But musician, photographer, designer, etc. all over the world have embrace the power of information, implemented business principles & systems, and moved from creatives to CEOs thereby turning their passion into profits. Say this out loud: All it takes is intention, consistency, and laser-focus to Mind My Creative Business!