Standout Creatives: Business, marketing, and creativity tips for solopreneurs launching their ideas

Kevin Chung
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Standout Creatives: Business, marketing, and creativity tips for solopreneurs launching their ideas

Feel stuck in the endless juggle of running a creative business? I'm Kevin Chung, your creative business host, and this podcast is your guide to thriving without losing your spark. This podcast is for you if you find yourself asking questions like: - Are you juggling creative work and the demands of running a business? - Do you feel overwhelmed by launching a product or course? - Struggling to find a marketing strategy that feels authentic to you? - Looking for ways to grow without burning out? - Wondering how to balance business success with your creative passion? Each episode dives into practical strategies, inspiring stories, and actionable tips from fellow creative business owners—whether you’re prepping for a big launch, scaling your business, or simply trying to sell with integrity. Learn how to stand out, grow with intention, and build a business that feels as good as it looks. (Formerly known as Cracking Creativity Podcast)

  1. 5H AGO

    How Two Indie Authors Built a Sci-Fi Brand and Empire from Scratch – The Forbidden Origins Story

    What if the secret to building a successful multimedia company wasn’t just talent, but persistence and collaborative storytelling? Forbidden Origins started as a childhood passion project. Through a mix of sci-fi and fantasy storytelling, collaborative creativity, and strategic brand-building, it evolved into a growing multimedia company. Now, with books, comics, and potential animated adaptations of The Old Universe, it’s proving that independent creators can carve their own path. With years of experience in indie publishing and creative entrepreneurship, the founders share the highs and lows of launching a multimedia brand while balancing day jobs and their creative vision. From Passion Project to Growing BusinessWhat started as two friends creating stories has turned into a full-fledged multimedia venture. Their first book series, The Old Universe, explores themes of father-son relationships while setting the foundation for an expanding storytelling universe. At one point, they realized they had so much content. Then they went viral for the first time and thought, "Let’s just see what happens!" That moment wasn’t luck—it was the result of years of creative work, strategic marketing, and a willingness to take risks. Actionable Insight: Start with a clear vision but stay adaptable. Consistency over time builds momentum in creative businesses. Bonus: Spend 10 minutes today identifying a small, consistent habit that can push your creative project forward. The Power of Creative Control in Indie PublishingBy choosing self-publishing, they maintained complete creative control over their stories and business decisions. They built their own platform, ensuring that contributing writers receive 100% of their royalties while fostering a collaborative creative environment. "Those writers get paid 100% for their work." They’ve made it a priority to create an “official look” while keeping full ownership of the creative process. Actionable Insight: Creative control means more responsibility. Identify one area where you can take full ownership of your creative work. Bonus: Research an indie creator who successfully built their audience through strategic engagement. Building a Brand & Expanding an AudienceSuccess isn’t just about creating—it’s about getting seen. Through targeted social media strategies, understanding algorithms, and consistent engagement, Forbidden Origins steadily grew its fanbase. "Brand recognition is key!" It takes strategy and investment—"You got to spend money to make money!" That investment—whether in marketing, design, or community-building—helped them gain visibility and traction. Actionable Insight: Your audience won’t find you unless you put yourself out there. Post consistently and track what resonates. Bonus: Set a goal to engage with 10 potential audience members this week across different platforms. Balancing Day Jobs and Passion ProjectsTurning a creative dream into a sustainable business requires sacrifice. The team behind Forbidden Origins juggles full-time jobs while dedicating every spare moment to growing their vision, proving that creative entrepreneurship is a long-term game. "It’s a long-ass marathon, not a sprint." Building something meaningful takes time and certain sacrifices. From late nights to reinvesting earnings back into the business, success is built on delayed gratification and long-term vision. Actionable Insight: Don’t let a busy schedule...

    2h 13m

  2. MAR 6

    12: How to Break Through Creative Blocks & Share Your Work with Confidence with with Melissa Dinwiddie

    What if the secret to unlocking your best creative work wasn’t more discipline but more play? Melissa Dinwiddie started her creative journey as a calligrapher and ketubah artist. But she didn’t stop there. By following her curiosity and embracing play, she unlocked new creative paths that she never saw coming. Now, as a corporate creativity consultant, she helps others break free from perfectionism and create with confidence. With years of experience in creativity training, Melissa helps individuals and teams rediscover the power of play to overcome perfectionism, spark innovation, and build a sustainable creative practice. Rediscovering Play in CreativityAfter a 15-year creative hiatus, Melissa reignited her artistic spark while planning her wedding. She realized that creativity thrives in a playful, low-pressure environment. Actionable Insight: If perfectionism is holding you back, set aside time for low-stakes creative play. Focus on the process, not the outcome. Bonus: Work on a five-minute improvisational exercise today. Try something like doodling, free-writing, or playing with a new artistic medium. Creative Confidence in Corporate SpacesMelissa didn’t just reclaim her creativity. She built a business around helping others do the same. She now works with corporate teams to integrate play, improvisation, and communication techniques to build an environment for innovation. Actionable Insight: Creativity isn’t just for artists. Identify one way you can introduce more curiosity or experimentation into your daily work. Bonus: Research one company known for its creativity and innovation. What strategies do they use that you could apply in your own practice? Overcoming Perfectionism & Creative BlocksWhen confronting a blank slate, making a mark, any mark, can be the hardest step. Melissa’s philosophy, The Creative Sandbox Way, encourages exploration over perfection. This method helps creatives and professionals alike break free from creative paralysis. Actionable Insight: Set up a dedicated “sacred creative time” each week where the goal is to create without judgment or expectation. Bonus: Make a list of your top three creative roadblocks and brainstorm one playful way to challenge each one. The Intersection of Art, Business & Self-ExpressionMelissa’s work bridges the gap between art and business. She's proven that creative expression can be personally fulfilling AND professionally valuable. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or corporate leader, embracing your unique strengths is the key to standing out. Actionable Insight: What creative strengths do you overlook because they come easily to you? Leverage them instead of dismissing them. Bonus: Write down one way you can turn a perceived weakness into a creative advantage. Key Takeaways:✅ Play is essential for sustained creativity. ✅ Perfectionism kills innovation. Embrace exploration instead. ✅ Creativity is a business asset, not just a personal practice. ✅ Willpower isn’t the answer. Structured play is. ✅ Your unique strengths are what make your work stand out. Transform Your Creative Barriers into BreakthroughsAs Melissa reminds us, the journey to uncovering your creative power is through play, curiosity, and the courage to defy perfectionism. Want to transform your creative blocks into stepping stones. Visit TheStandoutCreatives.com to book your free strategy...

    1h 41m

  3. FEB 26

    11: Marketing for Creatives in the Age of AI: How to Adapt & Stay Authentic with Kenny Tjay

    What does it take to stand out as a creative in a rapidly evolving digital world? For filmmaker and creative entrepreneur Kenny Tjay, success has come from constant experimentation, embracing technology, and treating creativity like a business. From his early days in wedding photography to building a digital media brand, Kenny has navigated industry shifts with adaptability and strategic thinking. In this episode, we dive into the intersection of creativity, AI, and the mindset shift needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Finding the Right Creative PathHow do you know when it’s time to make a change in your creative career? For Kenny, shifting from photography to video production in 2013 was a game-changer. By leveraging Yelp for advertising, he built a thriving business and discovered the power of strategic marketing. Actionable Insight: If you’re feeling stuck, experiment with a new creative format or platform and see how it feels. Bonus: Identify one area of your creative work that you want to change and outline three small steps to test it. Use AI to Increase EfficiencyAI is reshaping the creative industry by enhancing efficiency and idea generation. But it also raises questions about originality, sustainability, and the future of creative work. Kenny shares how AI has transformed his workflow and why creatives must learn to work with technology, not against it. Actionable Insight: Identify one AI tool that could streamline your creative process and test it for a week. Bonus: Research the energy impact of AI tools in your industry and explore ways to balance efficiency with sustainability. Standing Out in a Crowded MarketWhat separates thriving creatives from those struggling to get noticed? Quality, presentation, and strategy. Kenny emphasizes the importance of professionalism in your work. Whether it's your website, portfolio, or client interactions, small details can make a huge difference in perception. Actionable Insight: Look at all elements of your online presence (website, social media, portfolio). Does it communicate professionalism and clarity? Bonus: Find three standout creatives in your field and analyze what makes their branding and presentation exceptional. Creativity as a Strategic Business ApproachKenny’s biggest lesson? Creativity alone isn’t enough. Success comes from understanding marketing, pricing, and building relationships. You also need to stop treating your work as a hobby and approach it like a real business. Actionable Insight: Shift your mindset from "I make art" to "I run a creative business." What’s one habit you can change to reflect that shift? Bonus: Write a one-sentence statement defining what your creative business offers and who it helps. Key Takeaways:✅ Experimentation creates new opportunities ✅ Learn how to use AI wisely ✅ Professional presentation sets you apart ✅ Success requires a business mindset ✅ Adaptability is key to long-term growth Build a Thriving Creative BusinessWant to stand out, adapt to the evolving creative landscape, and turn your creativity into a sustainable business? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com to take the next step. 📌 I keep these sessions limited so I can give each person my full attention—so don’t wait too long!

    1h 28m

  4. FEB 24 · BONUS

    The Standout Creatives Manifesto: Your Art, Your Way

    Feeling unseen? Struggling to stand out without burning out? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing The Standout Creatives Manifesto—a call to artists, writers, and indie creators who refuse to follow the crowd. This isn’t just a poem. It’s a rallying cry. Listen in and if it sparks a fire in you, let's connect. Explore Creativity Parties, tune into The Standout Creatives Podcast, and all my projects at StandoutCreativeBusiness.com. You don’t have to do this out alone. Let’s build something that stands out—together.

    2 min

  5. FEB 18

    10: The Business of Creativity: How to License Your Art, Overcome Blocks, & Navigate Burnout with Lizzie Clark

    What transforms a creative passion into a sustainable career? For surface pattern designer Lizzie Clark, the journey started with a love for collage and evolved into a thriving business in licensing and textile design. With years of experience navigating the creative industry, Lizzie has built a business that blends artistry with strategy—proving that with the right approach, creativity can be both fulfilling and financially sustainable. From Passion to Profit: Making Art Work for YouWhen does hobby art become a viable business? For Lizzie, the breakthrough came by reimagining her collage work as repeating patterns, ultimately finding her niche in surface pattern design. Actionable Insight: Look at your current creative work through an entrepreneurial lens. Could your existing art live in multiple formats or markets? Bonus: Research three brands or retailers that license artwork similar to your style and explore their submission guidelines. Find Creative Freedom Through DiversificationBuilding a sustainable creative career isn't just about creating multiple income streams—it's about creative autonomy. Lizzie has strategically built her career by exploring various artistic opportunities and revenue channels. Actionable Insight: Brainstorm potential ways to sell your creative work. What unexplored avenues might complement your current practice? Bonus: Identify one new revenue stream (such as licensing, teaching, or collaborations) and outline three steps to start testing it. Overcome Creative Blocks & BurnoutCreative roadblocks are universal. Lizzie’s approach involves strategic disengagement, seeking inspiration in unexpected places, and maintaining artistic flexibility. Actionable Insight: Recognize when you need a creative reset. Design personal strategies for reconnection and inspiration. Bonus: Create a "creativity restoration" toolkit with five things that help you recharge—whether it’s a playlist, nature walks, or a different artistic medium. How to Navigate Copyright, Art Theft, and AIOur digital world is changing rapidly so it's essential to understand intellectual property. Lizzie shares pragmatic insights about protecting her creative work in a complex and evolving landscape. Actionable Insight: Proactively research and implement digital protection strategies for your work. Bonus: Learn about one legal tool (like watermarks or copyright registration) that can help protect your art. Align Your Art & Business with PurposeUnderstanding what motivates you creatively provides a lot of clarity. Lizzie emphasizes aligning your business practices with your artistic values. Actionable Insight: Talk about the deeper purpose behind your creative practice. Bonus: Write a one-sentence mission statement that captures why you create and share it with your audience. Key Takeaways:✅ Creative careers evolve through adaptability ✅ Diversification enables artistic freedom ✅ Strategic breaks prevent creative exhaustion ✅ Intellectual property protection is essential ✅ Authentic motivation sustains creative work Turn Your Creativity into a Thriving BusinessWant to make your art work for you? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com to take the next step. 📌 Note: I keep these sessions limited so I can give each person my full attention—so...

    1h 7m

  6. FEB 12

    9: Writing with Heart: How Douglas Weissman Crafts Stories That Stick

    I'm really excited to take you on a journey into the world of storytelling with someone who understands that great writing isn't just about plot, it's about connection. Meet Douglas Weissman, a travel writer and novelist who's turning personal experiences into compelling stories. But his story? It's not just about writing books. It’s about crafting experiences that stay with readers long after they’ve turned the last page. From Ordinary Moments to Narrative GoldWhat if our most powerful stories are hiding in the moments we overlook? Douglas believes your life is a treasure trove of storytelling potential. From a random conversation with a stranger to a missed train, every moment has the potential to inspire extraordinary stories. Actionable Tip: Start a story collection journal. For the next week, write down one unexpected moment each day. What made it unique? What emotions did it stir? Bonus: Choose one of these moments and write a 500-word scene exploring its emotional core. Don't worry about perfection. Just dive in and see what emerges. Breaking Free from Creative ParalysisMost writers get stuck because they're chasing some mythical "perfect story." Instead of waiting for the right moment, Doug embraces the messy, real, and raw. Your first draft doesn't need to be a masterpiece. It needs to be honest. Actionable Tip: Set a timer for 20 minutes. Write without stopping, without editing. Let your story spill out onto the page in its most raw form. Bonus: Read your unedited writing out loud. What surprises you? What feels most authentic? Navigating the Small Press LandscapeThe publishing world isn't just about big publishers. Douglas has carved a path through small presses that celebrate unique voices. These publishers aren't looking for cookie-cutter books—they're looking for stories with heart. Actionable Tip: Research three small presses in your genre. What makes them different? How do they support emerging writers? Bonus: Reach out to one small press. Ask a genuine question about their publishing approach. Build a relationship, not just a submission strategy. Writing in the Age of AI: Staying HumanAI can generate text, but it can't generate soul. Douglas sees AI as a tool, not a replacement. Your lived experiences and unique perspective are what make stories shine. Actionable Tip: Use AI for brainstorming, but write your actual story in your voice. Compare the AI-generated ideas with your authentic story. Bonus: Write a scene both with AI and on your own. Which feels more alive? The Vulnerability AdvantageDon't be afraid to share your most vulnerable moments. They're the ones that connect most deeply with readers and make the best stories. Actionable Tip: Write about a moment you've been hesitant to explore. What makes it uncomfortable? What does it reveal? Bonus: Share this writing with a trusted friend and ask for input. Sometimes an outside perspective helps us see our story's true power. Marketing Your Work Without Selling Your SoulDouglas believes in building genuine connections to sell his books. Your marketing should feel like an invitation to connect, not a sales pitch. Actionable Tip: Instead of just sharing links to your book on your newsletter, share your writing journey. What's happening behind the scenes? Bonus: Host a small online writing workshop or class. Give value before asking for anything in return. Key Takeaways:Your life experiences are your greatest storytelling resourceEmbrace imperfection in your writing processSmall presses can be...

    1h 37m

  7. FEB 5

    8: Creative Career Success: How Self-Published Authors and Creatives Can Build a Thriving Business with Russell Nohelty

    Meet Russell Nohelty, the self-publishing maverick who's cracked the code to turning creative passion into a sustainable writing career. With nearly a million dollars raised through crowdfunding and a proven track record of breaking through the noise, Russell offers a step-by-step roadmap to help authors transform their writing from a side hustle into a thriving business. Conquer PerfectionismWhy Imperfect Writing Wins Every Time Perfectionism can be a creativity killer. Russell’s game-changing approach? Treat your first draft as raw material, not your masterpiece. Perfectionism becomes your superpower when combined with radical self-compassion and a commitment to continuous improvement. Actionable Tip: This week, aim for messy but meaningful progress: draft 1,000 words in one sitting without editing. Bonus: Pick one chapter you've been stuck on and finish it within the next week, imperfections and all. Build Your CommunityHow to Network Like a Pro Self-publishing doesn’t mean going it alone. Russell emphasizes the power of building a community of fellow writers, beta readers, and a supportive network that amplifies your reach and credibility. Actionable Tip: Join one writing group or online community specific to your genre. Contribute meaningful feedback to at least three other authors this month to build genuine connections. Bonus: Propose a cross-promotion with an author in your niche. Think joint newsletter or shared promotional event. Amplify Your Unique VoiceThe Secret Weapon for Self-Published Success In a sea of endless books, your unique voice is your greatest asset. Whether you write niche sci-fi, unconventional memoirs, or genre-bending fiction, your perspective will attract dedicated readers. Actionable Tip: Identify the three most unique elements of your writing style or story that set you apart in your genre. Bonus: Share a provocative social media post showcasing your unique angle. Invite readers to engage with your story’s world. Monetize Your WritingEarn More While Staying True to Your Vision Authors have more monetization options than ever before. Russell’s approach focuses on creating multiple revenue streams. Having multiple revenue streams allows you to support your creative vision, not compromise it. Actionable Tip: Audit your existing work. Could you bundle books, offer special editions, or create bonus content for your readers? Bonus: Develop one additional product related to your book: a workbook, online course, or exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Share Your Authentic StoryBuild Reader Trust by Sharing Your Journey Your most vulnerable stories are often your most powerful. Being transparent about your writing journey can forge deep connections with readers. Actionable Tip: Share one behind-the-scenes moment from your writing process. It can be a challenge, breakthrough, personal struggle, or something similar. Bonus: Create content that showcases your authenticity. Share your inspirations, writing rituals, or the spark behind your story. Key Takeaways:Embrace imperfection as part of the creative process.Build a supportive community around your writing.Leverage your unique voice as a marketing tool.Create multiple revenue streams from your writing.Connect authentically with your readers. Your Career Transformation Starts...

    1h 48m

  8. JAN 28

    7: Embrace Your Quirks: How Being Different Connects You to the Right Audience

    The following is a narrative essay I wrote after my conversation with Bridget Baker. Fitting in was my survival strategy—until I realized it was suffocating my creative potential. In high school, I could morph myself into any group. In college, I went to parties even though I hated big groups of people. As an adult, I put on a "professional" face even when all I want to do is have fun. I thought, If I can just be smooth enough, normal enough, I'll finally belong. Spoiler: It never worked. The Moment of InsightDuring a conversation with my friend Bridget Baker—a former professional dancer turned branding expert—she said something that hit me hard: What if the parts of your story you're afraid to share are actually your greatest creative asset? I've often thought about how to share my moments of failure without people thinking "He has no idea what he's talking about. Why should I listen to him?" But what I realized when talking to Bridget was, we are not our failures. Failures are just a part of our journey. They can make us stronger if we lean into the lessons they are trying to teach us. The Unexpected Power of Your "Too Much"Let's talk about those moments you've labeled as "too much." For me, it was improv. I love improv. It taught me so much about creativity, problem-solving, and staying present. But for the longest time, I kept that part of me under wraps. I worried people wouldn't take me seriously. I thought they'd hear "improviser" and assume, Oh, he's just a guy who makes jokes. Then I said, "Eff it. Who cares if people think it's weird?" When I started sharing lessons I learned from improv, something magical happened. My audience loved it. People who had never done improv said things like, "Wow, I could never do that!" It struck a chord because it wasn't just about improv—it was about creative courage. The Vulnerability AdvantageA few years ago, I was working on multiple projects to help artists market their work. I poured my heart into it—hundreds of blog posts, nearly 100 podcast episodes, hours of connecting with my audience. When I finally offered my services, I was met with crickets. Not a single reply or hint of interest. It was devastating. I had done everything the "experts" said: build trust, provide value, connect authentically. But nothing worked. So, I took a break. I let go of the dream for years, feeling like I had failed. Fast forward to now: I've returned to this work with fresh energy and a deeper understanding of what creatives like you need. And you know what? That failure wasn't the end of my story. It was the middle. Sharing this with you isn't easy. But I've learned that the more open and honest we are, the more deeply we connect with our audience. People lean in when they see themselves in your story. Turning Your Quirks into Your Brand's SuperpowerHere's your challenge: List three ways you're different (not "wrong").Identify one story you've been afraid to tell.Create one offer that reflects your entire, messy journey. The Wild Truth About AuthenticityI used to think being a fan of anime, superheroes, or cartoons made me weird. When I was younger, everyone watched cartoons. But as we got older, I'd hear things like, "Eww, you still watch that?" So I hid those parts of me. I didn't tell people I watched Dragon Ball Z every afternoon. I kept quiet about the mini blogs I built for South Park and Rurouni Kenshin. It wasn't until years later that I realized how mainstream those interests had become. There were conventions, toy shops, and even streaming platforms dedicated to anime. The lesson? It doesn't matter if...

    6 min
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About

Feel stuck in the endless juggle of running a creative business? I'm Kevin Chung, your creative business host, and this podcast is your guide to thriving without losing your spark. This podcast is for you if you find yourself asking questions like: - Are you juggling creative work and the demands of running a business? - Do you feel overwhelmed by launching a product or course? - Struggling to find a marketing strategy that feels authentic to you? - Looking for ways to grow without burning out? - Wondering how to balance business success with your creative passion? Each episode dives into practical strategies, inspiring stories, and actionable tips from fellow creative business owners—whether you’re prepping for a big launch, scaling your business, or simply trying to sell with integrity. Learn how to stand out, grow with intention, and build a business that feels as good as it looks. (Formerly known as Cracking Creativity Podcast)

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