Pulling back the curtain on his own major income dip from April to May, Mike opens up about the emotional toll these slow months can take, and why it’s not always your fault. He breaks down the real reasons behind sudden performance declines — including shifts in Amazon’s algorithm, economic changes, and seasonal buyer behavior — while offering clear advice on how to navigate the storm.
This episode is a mix of tough love, encouragement, and practical strategy. Mike shares how to manage mindset during discouraging times, why long-term brand building matters more than chasing short-term wins, and how diversifying your income streams can protect you in uncertain seasons.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, defeated, or ready to throw in the towel — this one’s for you.
Work 1-on-1 with Mike:
Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session
🔗 Join Our Facebook Community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
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Make smarter content decisions and grow faster with Viral Vue.
Try Viral Vue here — Save 10% for life with code: STRAHL10
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Descript:
Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro with Descript.
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For all inquiries, email: levelupwithmike@gmail.com
In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike sits down with Kade Peterson, a leading content creator and co-founder of Viral Vue. Kade shares his journey from Amazon private label selling to rebuilding a multi-platform brand after losing his main TikTok account. You’ll learn how Viral Vue helps creators make smarter, faster decisions and why getting uncomfortable is key to long-term success.
We talk about Kade’s start in Amazon and content creation, how Viral Vue was born and how it’s helping influencers, and tips for new and aspiring creators. Kade also dives into how to overcome challenges, stay motivated, manifest big goals, and why stepping out of your comfort zone leads to real growth. We also cover strategies for expanding beyond Amazon to diversify your income streams, new features and future plans for Viral Vue, and his final encouragement for creators working to build sustainable businesses.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world strategies for content creators at any level.
Connect with Kade:
Instagram: @kade_peterson
YouTube: Kade Peterson
Join Our Facebook Community:
Amazon Influencer Success Community
Work 1-on-1 with Mike:
Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session
Creator Tools & Affiliate Links:
Viral Vue:
Make smarter content decisions and grow faster with Viral Vue.
Try Viral Vue here — Save 10% for life with code: STRAHL10
(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
Descript:
Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro with Descript.
(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
For all inquiries, email: levelupwithmike@gmail.com
In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies podcast, Mike sits down with Erin Lawrence — a full-time content creator, YouTube strategist, and former TV journalist who’s grown her channel to nearly 100,000 subscribers. Erin shares how she made the leap from news anchor to influencer, how she consistently lands paid brand deals, and what it really takes to build a sustainable, profitable creator business.
We dive into:
If you’re a creator ready to go full-time, this episode is packed with actionable tips, real talk, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to thrive in today’s digital world.
Connect with Erin Lawrence
Work with Mike 1-on-1
Creator Tools & Discounts
Liked this episode?
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a fellow creator looking to scale their income and build a long-term content business!
For all inquires please reach out to me by email : levelupwithmike@gmail.com
In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike sits down with Jesse Lakes, CEO of Geniuslink, to uncover proven strategies for maximizing affiliate earnings. Jesse shares his unique journey from whitewater rafting guide to affiliate marketing expert, offering insider tips on increasing conversion rates, managing multiple affiliate programs, and leveraging AI for efficiency.
_________________________________________
They also discuss:
✅ How to optimize affiliate links for higher commissions
✅ Geniuslink’s powerful tools for international sales and tracking
✅ Staying compliant with Amazon’s affiliate program
✅ Future trends in digital marketing and monetization
Whether you’re new to affiliate marketing or looking to scale your income, this episode is packed with actionable advice from an industry leader.
📢 Join the Conversation & Level Up Your Earnings!
📌 It's not to late to sign up for the course!
Beyond the Basics – The Creator’s Guide to Monetization & Growth
🚀 Learn advanced strategies to grow and monetize your content!
👉 Join here: https://buy.stripe.com/9AQg2Obra4vc9gY8ww
🎯 1-on-1 Coaching with Mike
✔ Book a single session: https://buy.stripe.com/8wMcQC8eYf9Qcta9AC
✔ Save with a 4-session block: https://buy.stripe.com/fZe3g20Mw1j01Ow5kl
🔗 Affiliate Tools & Discounts
🔥 Viral Vue: https://app.viralvue.com/register?fpr=mikestrahl – Save 10% with code: STRAHL10
🎬 Descript: https://get.descript.com/429ryp597xa4 – Edit & transcribe like a pro
🚀 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow creators looking to boost their affiliate marketing success!
In Episode 64 of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike returns after a period of recovery from nasal surgery & welcomes guest Kevin Thomas. At 55 years old, Kevin is taking an early retirement & transitioning from his established career into content creation. He shares his journey, insights, & practical tips for leveraging Amazon's Creator Connections. He discusses his robust workflow, the importance of prioritizing high-impact products, & the benefits of making both horizontal and vertical videos. Kevin also touches on securing free products from vendors & making informed video content decisions. This episode offers valuable perspectives for influencers aspiring to optimize their time & maximize earnings. Kevin also had a YouTube channel where he shares his tips & insights related to the AIP program. His channel, Bald Man Hustle can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@BaldManBusiness
New Course Announcement!
Beyond the Basics: The Creator’s Guide to Monetization & Growth Course
Join Here!
https://buy.stripe.com/9AQg2Obra4vc9gY8ww
_________________________________________________________
If you are interested in 1 on 1 coaching
1 session
https://buy.stripe.com/8wMcQC8eYf9Qcta9AC
4 session block
https://buy.stripe.com/fZe3g20Mw1j01Ow5kl
Affiliate Links:
Viral Vue
https://app.viralvue.com/register?fpr=mikestrahl
Save 10% by using code : STRAHL10
Descript
In episode 63 of the Basic Influencer Strategies podcast, Mike thanks listeners for their support as he takes over from Andrew & Jim Ed. He discusses Amazon's recent transition from Creator Hub to Creator Studio, providing insights into the changes & their implications for influencers. Mike also shares his personal earnings breakdown for January & February, emphasizing the importance of Creator Connections & diversifying income streams.
He offers advice on video metrics, product selection, & effective use of tools like Viral Vue. Additionally, Mike announces a new course designed to help influencers level up their content and earnings. The episode concludes with strategies for acquiring high-ticket items for reviews & leveraging community support.
New Course Announcement!
Beyond the Basics: The Creator’s Guide to Monetization & Growth Course
Join Here!
https://buy.stripe.com/9AQg2Obra4vc9gY8ww
_________________________________________________________
If you are interested in 1 on 1 coaching
1 session
https://buy.stripe.com/8wMcQC8eYf9Qcta9AC
4 session block
https://buy.stripe.com/fZe3g20Mw1j01Ow5kl
_________________________________________________________
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update
01:09 Amazon Updates: Creator Hub Changes
04:15 Personal Earnings and Creator Connections
06:08 Understanding Metrics and Improving Content
10:07 Introducing the 'Beyond the Basics' Course
12:39 IPX and Other Extensions
14:34 Viral View: A Paid Extension Review
18:21 Finding High Ticket Items for Reviews
23:16 Conclusion and Community Support
Affiliate Links:
Viral Vue
https://app.viralvue.com/register?fpr=mikestrahl
Save 10% by using code : STRAHL10
Descript
In podcast episode number 62, Andrew acknowledges the long break since their last episode and discusses the busy lives of the co-hosts.
Major life transitions, including new jobs and other commitments, have led to a significant announcement: Andrew and Jim Ed will hand over the reins of the podcast to Mike.
Mike shares his impressive journey and earnings in the Amazon Influencer Program (AIP) and outlines his vision for the podcast moving forward. He plans to expand the podcast's scope to cover broader topics within the side hustle and passive income niches, offer coaching, and maintain engagement with the podcast's existing community.
The episode closes with actionable tips on improving video reviews to boost AIP success.
00:00 Welcome Back to the Podcast! 00:16 Life Updates and Busy Schedules 00:45 Podcast Continuation and Changes 00:57 Revenue and Performance Insights 03:18 Mike's Impressive Numbers 10:02 Community and Success Stories 13:06 Big Announcement: Podcast Transition 14:45 Future Vision and Plans 23:52 Nostalgic Product Reviews 24:15 Crafting the Perfect Thumbnail and Title 24:53 Engaging Viewers with Hooks 27:54 Authenticity in Content Creation 28:55 Learning from Feedback 34:37 The Importance of Product Familiarity 40:36 Expanding Content and Side Hustles 42:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Welcome to the Amazon Influencer podcast #61. In the 61st episode of the podcast, the hosts discuss recent life changes, income updates, and future goals for 2025.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Need some one on one help? Reach out to us (sidehustleheroeshq@gmail.com or message us on FB) as we now offer coaching.
Join our Amazon Influencer Success Facebook group to be part of this supportive AIP support community:
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Show Notes: Andrew and Mike emphasize the importance of strategic planning, prioritizing relationships, and effective time management. The episode also covers the nuances of video content creation for AIP, Mike and Andrew's journey of managing a full-time job while maintaining side hustles, and their collective goals moving forward. Listeners are encouraged to join the supportive Facebook group and consider coaching for optimized earnings. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Kickoff 01:07 Andrew's life change 03:05 Discussing Revenue Streams 05:00 AIP Numbers and Performance 06:49 Mike's Social Media Earnings 14:52 Vision Board and Future Goals 18:30 Realizing Your True Worth 18:43 Setting Goals for a Better Future 19:21 The Importance of Delegation 21:10 Evaluating Relationships 24:29 Balancing Work and Personal Life 26:54 Staying Focused and Accountable 28:15 Planning for Full-Time Entrepreneurship 31:00 Encouragement and Final Thoughts 36:05 Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
In this milestone 60th episode of the Amazon Influencer Podcast, the hosts welcome back Mike Dancy, an expert in user-generated content (UGC) and Amazon Influencers. Mike shares his journey from discovering the Amazon Influencer Program to diversifying his income streams through YouTube and TikTok.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Amazon Influencer Success Facebook group to be part of this supportive AIP support community,
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Show Notes:
The discussion covers effective content creation strategies, optimizing video content for various platforms, and leveraging relationships with brands and UGC agencies. The podcast also highlights Mike's impressive earnings, growth metrics, and actionable tips for aspiring influencers. 00:00 Welcome to the Amazon Influencer Podcast 00:10 Introducing Mike Dancy 00:58 Mike's Journey with Amazon Influencer Program 01:31 Discussing Podcast Impact and Listener Engagement 02:25 Sharing Earnings and Metrics 04:04 Strategies for Increasing Revenue 07:34 The Power of YouTube for Influencers 10:05 User Generated Content (UGC) and Brand Deals 12:32 Leveraging Multiple Platforms for Success 20:33 Jim Ed's YouTube Channel and Future Plans 22:42 Channel Strategy and Playlists 23:39 Editing for Multiple Platforms 25:03 Monetization and Video Length 26:19 Unexpected Viral Success 29:42 TikTok Growth and Brand Deals 34:28 Creating Engaging Product Reviews 45:29 Final Thoughts and Advice
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 59 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! In this podcast, Mike and Andrew talk about a host of topics from our latest sales trends, to conversion rates, creator connections updates, and finally our coaching program.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Amazon Influencer Success Facebook group to be part of this supportive AIP support community:
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Follow us on TikTok to get sneak previews of upcoming podcasts and to support our podcast:
https://www.tiktok.com/@amazoninfluencerpodclips
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Show Notes:
In the 59th episode of the Side Hustle Podcast, hosts Mike and Andrew discuss recent developments and strategies in the Amazon Influencer Program (AIP). With regular co-host Jim Ed on Thanksgiving break, Andrew and Mike dive into their current statistics, emphasizing the importance of conversion rates, effective video strategies, and Creator Connections. They also share their own numbers and offer practical tips on improving performance. The conversation touches on the effectiveness of Facebook groups for up-to-date knowledge, the impact of video clicks and conversions on sales, and the benefits of selling unused review products on secondary markets like eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Amidst the practical advice, Andrew mentions the importance of disclosing sponsorships and offers one-on-one coaching opportunities for those wanting personalized guidance.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Updates
00:51 Facebook Live and Group Engagement
02:16 Instagram and Latest Trends
03:20 Honest Reflections and Positivity
04:16 Mike's Success and Hard Work
09:08 Discussing Numbers and Performance
15:32 Conversion Rates and Strategies
17:46 Crafting Click-Worthy Videos
18:52 Understanding the E-Commerce Funnel
20:07 Analyzing Metrics for Success
20:40 Learning from Influencers
21:33 Improving Video Quality
23:38 Offering Coaching Services
25:02 Maximizing Creator Connections
29:46 Reselling Reviewed Products
32:20 Ethical Disclosure Practices
34:26 Wrapping Up and Future Topics
Glass Half Full Perspectives:
Jim Ed has earned over $4,000 from paid video reviews over the past year
Both hosts still receiving valuable free products from Chinese sellers
Planning spring yard sale with accumulated products
Products can be used for holiday gifts and employee Christmas party items
Updates & Tips:
Using Descript software for podcast/video editing
Now on TikTok - providing show previews and clips
Recording schedule: Thursday evenings, released Sunday nights around 7-8pm
Tips on video quality: Focus on efficient, good quality production rather than perfection
Looking Forward:
Testing out Airbnb product reviews as a new content opportunity
Upcoming guest speaker in two weeks to discuss content creation and monetization
Jim Ed pursuing potential dash cam sponsorship deal for his work trucks
Career Numbers:
Jim Ed's lifetime AIP earnings: $78,543
Andrew's lifetime AIP earnings: ~$14-15,000
Combined earnings approaching $100,000
Follow the Show:
Join Facebook group: Amazon Influencer Side Hustle Heroes
Follow on TikTok for show previews
Watch for upcoming episode teasers
Next Episode: Special guest discussing successful content creation and monetization strategies
Welcome to Episode 57 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! In this podcast, Mike and Andrew talk about the ins and outs of uploading AIP videos to YouTube.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Amazon Influencer Success Facebook group to be part of this supportive AIP support community,
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Show Notes:
Introduction:
Podcast Highlights:
Earnings and Growth:
Tracking and Organizing Products for Reviews:
Q4 Strategy:
Expanding to YouTube for Multiple Revenue Streams:
Creating Engaging YouTube Content:
Monetizing on YouTube:
Building an Engaged Community:
Working with Suppliers:
Final Thoughts:
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 56 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! In this podcast, Ali, a new AIP member joins us to talk about her experience with the program so far.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Amazon Influencer Success Facebook group to be part of this supportive AIP support community,
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Podcast show notes:
Intro and Free Product Dilemma
Scaling Beyond Free Products
Q4 Strategy & Gift Planning
Ali's Advice for New Influencers
Community Importance
Final Takeaways
Closing Remarks
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 55 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! In this podcast, Mike returns to the podcast (he's been on a few others). He's going to take a larger role with the podcast and he shares about his experience with Creator Connections.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Amazon Influencer Success Facebook group to be part of this supportive AIP support community,
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Podcast show notes:
Creator Connections Overview
Promotions & Social Media Links
Mike’s Creator Connection Insights
Q4 Preparation & Optimization
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 54 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! In this podcast, we interview new Amazon Influencer, Jourdan. She's off to a great start with almost 200 videos uploaded after just a few months. She shares her experience so far with the program and provides some valuable insights.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Amazon Influencer Success Facebook group to be part of this supportive AIP support community,
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Podcast show notes:
Intro & Numbers Update
Special Guest: Jordan
Key Discussions:
Jordan’s Advice for New Influencers:
Jordan’s Side Hustles:
Closing Thoughts:
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 53 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! In this podcast, we react to a great post from one of our FB group members, Jeff, about some recommended best practices/learnings from his AIP experience. Thanks, Jeff!
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Side Hustle Heroes HQ Facebook group to be part of the Side Hustle Heroes HQ community and be the first to get access to the latest tips and strategies for our latest side hustles.
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Podcast summary:
In this episode of the Amazon Influencer Podcast, we dive into our latest numbers and discuss the challenges and strategies of being Amazon Influencers, particularly when it comes to dealing with suppliers and maintaining commission levels. We reflect on how our numbers have been declining despite putting in significant effort, especially in creating video reviews. Andrew mentions his focus on product reviews, while Jim Ed shares his frustration with lower commissions despite increasing his video output.
We emphasize the importance of being strategic with time management and where to focus efforts to maximize returns. We discuss the pros and cons of reviewing free products, especially those with less competition on Amazon, and highlight the need to be cautious when engaging with new suppliers. We advise saying yes to some initial products from new suppliers to build a relationship, but warn against being too picky, which could lead to losing out on future opportunities.
The episode also touches on the value of the Creator Connections program, where influencers can choose higher-quality products to review. However, we caution against spending too much time on this, suggesting it may not be the most efficient use of time for everyone. We conclude by discussing the importance of producing quality videos, being mindful of tax implications when purchasing products for review, and the potential risks of relying too heavily on buying products at retail prices for review purposes.
Finally, we tease the introduction of a new tool we are testing, which we believe could be valuable for influencers. We plan to provide more details and a thorough review in the next episode.
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 52 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! Yes, AIP numbers are lower again. Is it time to throw in the towel? Hardly!
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Side Hustle Heroes HQ Facebook group to be part of the Side Hustle Heroes HQ community and be the first to get access to the latest tips and strategies for our latest side hustles.
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price for the next few weeks.
Sign up below:
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Current Challenges:
Potential Reasons for Decline
Strategies to Improve Earnings
Advice for New AIP Participants
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/ssmfreepodcast
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 51 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! Jim Ed and Andrew interview an exciting guest Doug who is one of the original AIP members with over 3,000 videos. You'll be sure to learn a ton of things from this one.
Make sure to check out a really cool tool that Doug is using to scale your AIP income. Get a 50% discount here when you use this link: https://fluencerfruitconnect.com/dougandniki
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Side Hustle Heroes HQ Facebook group to be part of the Side Hustle Heroes HQ community and be the first to get access to the latest tips and strategies for our latest side hustles.
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price for the next few weeks.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Guest Introduction:
Discussion with Doug:
Key Insights:
YouTube and TikTok Strategies:
Tools and Software:
Final Advice:
Closing:
Action Items for Listeners:
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/ssmfreepodcast
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 50 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! Jim Ed and Andrew celebrate reaching the milestone of their 50th podcast episode. They reflect on their journey and the hosts express gratitude for their supportive listeners and the motivation they draw from them.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Side Hustle Heroes HQ Facebook group to be part of the Side Hustle Heroes HQ community and be the first to get access to the latest tips and strategies for our latest side hustles.
www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price for the next few weeks.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Milestone Reflections:
Current Updates:
Insights on Working with Suppliers:
Listener Engagement and Community:
Advice for New Influencers:
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/ssmfreepodcast
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP
Welcome to Episode 49 of the Amazon Influencer Podcast! On today's podcast we chat about lower numbers again and why we think that is going on. We also discuss Amazon's recent email about content duplication and the impact on us.
Enjoying the podcast? Please leave us a review/rating and share with your friends.
Join our Side Hustle Heroes HQ Facebook group to be part of the Side Hustle Heroes HQ community and be the first to get access to the latest tips and strategies for our latest side hustles.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sidehustlesheroeshq
Our Amazon Influencers course is now for sale at a lower price for the next few weeks.
Sign up below:
https://bit.ly/provenazinfluencer
Lower Numbers:
Content Duplication
Big News of Jim Ed
Our affiliate partners/links:
---> https://bit.ly/ssmfreepodcast
---> https://bit.ly/descriptSHHAIP