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. 6 DAYS AGO

    Recap: Storytelling, Connection & Growth: My Top 3 Takeaways from Kent Sanders

    Ghostwriting might sound mysterious, but after talking with Kent on The Standout Creatives, it’s clear: ghostwriting is one of the most human ways to inspire and connect. Here are the 3 biggest insights from our conversation that can help your creative business thrive: 1. Your Story is Your Superpower Your story isn’t just nice-to-have—it’s the reason people will trust and choose YOU. When you share your journey, you create emotional connections that no marketing hack can replicate. ➡️ Action Step: Map out a few key life or business moments. Pick one and share it with your audience this week. 2. Networking is About Real Connection It’s not about knowing everyone—it’s about showing up for the people who matter most. A thoughtful gesture, like a handwritten note, can open doors you didn’t even know existed. ➡️ Action Step: Reach out to one person you admire in your network. Be specific about why their work matters to you. 3. Growth Comes From Staying Curious, Not Perfect Creativity isn’t about getting it right the first time. It’s about learning, adapting, and growing through the process. Curiosity is your edge. ➡️ Action Step: Set aside 30 minutes to explore a book, podcast, or course that inspires you to think differently. ✨ If you found any of these insights helpful, I highly recommend checking out the interview I had with Kent Sanders. It really was a great conversation. 🚀 Are you an author, writer, or creative business owner who wants help standing out, or need support for your next book or product launch? Let’s chat. Visit The Standout Creatives to book a spot. But heads up, spots are limited, so grab yours while you can!

    10 min

  2. 4 HR. AGO

    5: Embrace Your Story: Building an Authentic Brand That Resonates and Connects with Your Ideal Audience with Bridget Baker

    I’m really excited to take you on a journey into the world of authentic branding with someone who’s done it in the most unexpected way. Meet Bridget Baker a former professional ballet dancer who’s now flipping the script on branding and storytelling. Her story? It’s not just inspiring. It’s a game changer for anyone looking to share their unique perspective while staying true to themselves. From Center Stage to Centering Your NarrativeNow, let’s talk about something that might feel a little uncomfortable at first: What if the quirks and odd moments you try to hide are actually your greatest asset? Bridget believes your branding should be a dance, and the steps you take, however unconventional, are what will make you stand out. Those moments in your life? That’s the heart of your story. Actionable Tip: Start small. Take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Are there parts of it you’ve been avoiding, fearing they might not “fit” with the brand you’re trying to create? Those might be the moments that resonate most with the people who truly get you.Bonus: Write down one personal story—something you’ve never shared before. It might feel vulnerable, but consider how that story could connect with your audience, even if you don’t see how just yet. This could be the bridge to people who really understand your message. Breaking Free from Creative ConformityIf you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong in the mainstream or traditional marketing world, Bridget’s got your back. Most creatives fall into the trap of trying to look like everyone else, but Bridget’s advice is clear: Your differences aren’t a flaw, they’re your superpower. Your unique story doesn’t need to fit into a mold, and it sure doesn’t need to apologize for being different. Your story is the melody, and the world needs to hear it. Actionable Tip: Grab a notebook and jot down three ways your background makes you different. Be specific. These are the things you don’t want to hide anymore.Bonus: Write a brand statement that feels like you, not what you think you should be. Make it bold, honest, and unapologetic. And above all, make it real—the world’s tired of “polished” and wants to hear you. Redefining Your Creative ValueIt’s time to face the hard truth: if you’ve been underpricing your services or products, you’re not doing your talents justice. Bridget’s approach challenges creatives to see that everything in their journey, every skill, every lesson learned, is valuable. Your past and your experience are what give you the authority to charge what you’re truly worth. Actionable Tip: Take a deep dive into your own skills and experiences. What unique value do you bring to the table? How do those talents serve your audience in a way no one else can?Bonus: Create a “premium” offering that reflects the richness of your expertise. It’s not just about asking for more money—it’s about showing people just how much depth you bring to the table. Think about how to package your knowledge in a way that makes your audience see its true worth. The Vulnerability AdvantageOkay, here’s the kicker: your vulnerability is your secret weapon. The stories you’re afraid to share, the ones where you feel imperfect or misunderstood, are often the very stories that create powerful connections with your audience. You’re not alone in your fears, and your audience will feel your authenticity when you let down the walls. Actionable Tip: Think about one moment from your creative journey that’s tough to share but feels like an...

    1h 9m
  3. 3: Creative Business Success: How Starting Small Leads to Big Wins with Early Supporters

    12/17/2024

    3: Creative Business Success: How Starting Small Leads to Big Wins with Early Supporters

    Starting small doesn’t mean thinking small. In this episode of The Standout Creatives, I’ll show you how launching with a small, engaged audience can be your secret weapon for creative business success. Whether you’re working on your first course, digital product, or any big idea, this approach will set you up for growth without the stress of trying to “go big” too soon. Here’s what you’ll learn: The Myth of “Go Big or Go Home”: Why starting small can actually lead to success.The Power of Early Supporters: How to attract the right people who will champion your work and become your first superfans.Small Wins, Big Momentum: Real-world examples of creatives who turned small audiences into thriving businesses.Your Action Plan: A simple, repeatable process for launching small while building confidence and connection. You don’t need a massive following to create something amazing. You just need to take the first step—and I’ll help you make it happen. Who This Episode is ForCreative entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed by the idea of launching to a small audience.Digital product and course creators who have a small but passionate fan base.Anyone who’s tired of chasing vanity metrics and ready to focus on authentic, meaningful results. Key Takeaways:Start small, think big: The most successful launches often come from starting with the resources and audience you have now.Engage early fans: Focus on people who already know, like, and trust your work—they’ll be the foundation for your future growth.Momentum matters: Celebrate the small wins because they’re the stepping stones to your standout business. Resources & Next Steps:💡 Schedule a free standout business discovery call: Let’s brainstorm how you can take your first small step toward a standout creative business.✍️ Grab your copy of We Are All Creative: Fuel your inspiration with 52 quotes and prompts designed for creative entrepreneurs.🎧 Subscribe to The Standout Creatives podcast: Don’t miss future episodes filled with actionable tips to grow your creative business without sacrificing your sanity. Final Thought:Big success doesn’t require a big start. It just needs a small, intentional step forward—and the right people to walk alongside you. Ready to take yours?

    28 min

  4. 12/11/2024

    2: Ghostwriting Secrets: How Creative Entrepreneurs Can Use Their Passion to Build a Profitable Standout Business by Telling Powerful Stories with Kent Sanders

    Ghostwriting might seem like a secretive craft, but it’s anything but. Kent Sanders breaks it down: this isn’t about hiding in the shadows—it’s about creating stories that genuinely connect. As the founder of Inkwell Ghostwriting, Kent has helped entrepreneurs and leaders bring their journeys to life in ways that inspire and resonate. If your story isn’t reaching people, what’s getting lost in translation? Is it the message? The delivery? Or maybe, it’s just missing that human touch. Your story is the bridge between you and your audience. If you fail to connect, you’re not just missing an opportunity—you’re letting relationships, impact, and trust slip through your fingers. But the good news? When you get storytelling right, it transforms everything. In this episode, Kent takes us on his journey from college professor to ghostwriting powerhouse, revealing how storytelling goes way beyond just putting words on a page. It’s about digging deep, building connection, and translating someone’s vision into a narrative that lands exactly the way they dreamed it would. Three Big Takeaways and Actionable Steps1. The Power of Understanding: Get Inside Their Story Ghostwriting (or any kind of storytelling) isn’t about slapping words together—it’s about understanding the person behind the story. You’re not just writing; you’re capturing their essence. Actionable Tip: Ask deeper questions before starting a project. Not just, “What’s the story you want to tell?” but, “Why does this matter to you?” and “What do you want your audience to feel?”Bonus: Try mapping out key moments of your journey to see the bigger picture. This "story map" becomes your roadmap for building a narrative that sticks. 2. Real Connections Beat Surface-Level Networking Every Time Networking is about relationships, not resumes. Forget the business cards and LinkedIn requests. It’s the small, thoughtful gestures that build trust and open doors you didn’t even know existed. Actionable Tip: This week, send a quick, personal note to someone you admire—a handwritten letter, a voice memo, or a thoughtful email. Be specific about what you love about their work.Bonus: Make a habit of checking in with your network regularly—especially when you’re not asking for anything. Think of it as planting seeds for future growth. 3. Stay Curious, Stay Open, Stay Moving The creative journey isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Every failure is a chance to refine your craft. The most successful creatives? They’re the ones who embrace learning, even when it’s uncomfortable. Actionable Tip: Set aside 30 minutes this week to dive into something new—a book, podcast, or course that challenges how you think.Bonus: Reflect on a recent mistake. Write down what it taught you and how you’re using that lesson to grow. Kent Sanders reminds us that storytelling isn’t just a skill—it’s a superpower. Done right, it can transform your business, strengthen your relationships, and amplify your impact. The question is: Are you ready to take your story to the next level? Need Help with Your Creative Business? If you’re a creative entrepreneur ready to make your business stand out, visit The Standout Creatives. Whether you're launching your next book, podcast, course, or digital product, I’d love to help you turn your vision into something extraordinary. Spots are limited, so if you’re ready to chat about your next big idea, don’t wait—sign up

    1h 13m

  5. 12/03/2024

    1: From Burnout to Breakthrough: Relaunching as The Standout Creatives

    Big news: the podcast is back, and it’s got a whole new look, name, and purpose. After taking a much-needed break, I’m beyond excited to relaunch as The Standout Creatives! This isn’t just a new name—it’s a new mission to help you build a business that stands out while staying true to your creative passion. In this episode, I’ll take you behind the scenes: The Cracking Creativity journey: Lessons I learned from inspiring interviews and how they shaped my perspective.Burnout and breakthroughs: How stepping back helped me reevaluate and refocus on what matters most.Why the rebrand matters: My mission to bring you practical strategies for turning creative passion into sustainable success.What to expect going forward: Actionable advice, authentic stories, and insightful interviews with creative business owners who’ve been where you are. If balancing creativity with running a business feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. This podcast is your guide to standing out, scaling up, and thriving—without burning out. Ready to take the next step? Book one of my limited one-on-one strategy calls, where we’ll craft a custom plan to grow your creative business with clarity and confidence. Let’s build something amazing together!

    14 min

  6. 03/06/2019

    [Recap for Episode 91] Creativity vs. Natural Inspiration, Stealing in Art, Taking Chances, and Learning from Your Mistakes – Cracking Creativity Episode 91

    A recap of episode 91 of the Cracking Creativity podcast. If you liked it, check out the full episode with Erik Young where he talks about creativity vs. natural inspiration, stealing in art, taking chances, and learning from your mistakes.

    10 min

  7. 02/21/2019

    92: Nick Gray on Turning Your Hobby Into a Business, Standing Out in a Crowded Market, and Being a Leader

    Nick Gray is the founder of Museum Hack, a twist on the traditional museum experience. The funny thing about Nick is, he used to hate museums. That is until he went on a date that forever changed his life. During a snowy day in NYC, a girl brought him to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and showed him artifacts, furniture, and other interesting things in the museum. This changed Nick’s perception of what a museum tour could be. That’s when he started frequenting the MET, and learned to love museums. The first time Nick charged for a museum tour, he even tried to give money back to the people who took it. He had so much fun with the tour that he thought he shouldn’t charge people for it. “The first tour that I actually charged money for, it was a Sunday morning tour at 11 in the morning, and I was like ‘Alright I’ll just see if I can charge money. I’ll charge them $20. See if they come.’ And everyone gave me their cash, and I gave them the tour. And I had so much fun Kevin, I had so much fun, that at the end of the tour, I think I freaked everybody out because I gave them all of their money back. And they were like ‘Why are you giving us… is this Candid Camera or something?’ and I was like “No, I had so much fun. It feels dirty for me to take your money, to do something that I love, something that I’m having so much fun with.’ So for me that was the first time I experimented, but it didn’t really go so well.” Before Nick started Musuem Hack he was a salesman of flat screen monitors. But the success of his initial tours, and the experience he gained as a salesman, allowed him to turn his passion project into a business. “What I think is special about what I’ve done with Museum Hack that your listeners might find fascinating, is that I took something that was a passion project, something that I just did for a hobby, for fun, and I was able to convert it and make it into a business. And my time selling these screens really taught me the importance of marketing and sales and dollar value of creating premium experiences. So for me that was really helpful.” The thing that makes Museum Hack different from other museum tours is what Nick likes to dub the 3 G’s. While most other tours are zigging, Museum Hack is zagging. “The three Gs. These are the three things that makes Museum Hack completely different from most museum tours. Three Gs. Number one, guides. Number two, games. and number three gossip. So it’s the tour guides that are so engaging, that are actors and educators, and science teachers, and musicians who write their own tours who are so special. That’s the guides. The games means that the tours are so fast paced. They’re ultra fast paced. They’re two to three times as fast as most museum tours. And we also do selfie challenges. We takes shots of espresso or drink some wine. And then the gossip, that’s the juicy back story. The cool stuff about the art that we like to talk about.” Instead of trying to find people who are knowledgeable in history and museums, Nick hires guides who are good with people. Anyone can learn about art, but not everyone is good at connecting with people. “The number one thing we look for is someone’s ability to be a good host. How is their body language? How comfortable to they make people? Do they make us laugh? That’s the most important thing. It’s not about their knowledge. It’s not about how much they know about the art history. It’s about how do they make the guests feel. Because that’s what we’re trying to do, right? We’re trying to make people comfortable and we’re trying to get them to warm up inside the space. So that’s really what we hire for first and foremost. And then we can teach them about the art. We can teach them about the museum… We hire folks that are really good with people.” He also gives his guides the freedom to create their own tours. When you are building something

    1h 4m

  8. 01/08/2019

    91: Erik Young on Creativity vs. Natural Inspiration, Stealing in Art, Taking Chances, and Learning from Your Mistakes

    Erik Young is one of my friends from high school. In this episode we broke from the normal format of the show and talked about our thoughts on creativity, inspiration, the education system, and learning from your mistakes. We also talked about some of the projects he's worked on including his children's book and work as owner of 7Mangos. Read more shownotes from episode 91 with Erik Young

    1h 19m
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4.9
out of 5
18 Ratings

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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