In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest game-changers for freelancers and creative business owners: retainer clients.
If you’re stuck hustling for low-budget, one-off projects with no stability, this episode is for you. Learn why retainer clients are the foundation of a profitable, scalable creative business—and how to land them.
What You’ll Learn:
Key Topics:
Special Announcement: Creative Business Lab Is Here!
🚀 Creative Business Lab launched last week, and the response has been incredible! 🚀
This digital course is helping creatives like you transform their businesses. From freelancers leaving their 9-5 jobs to agency owners making $100K+ per month, the Creative Business Lab community is packed with people ready to scale their businesses and build a stable, profitable future.
Join the community that’s changing the game:
Weekly Challenge:
CTA:
Take a screenshot of yourself listening to this episode and share it on Instagram! Tag me (@gordonly) for a chance to win a FREE Bold Proposal Template, perfect for pitching and closing retainer clients with confidence. Let’s see who’s tuning in!
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the concept of “idle hands” and exploring what happens when we let laziness, distractions, and unproductive habits take over.
We trace the origins of “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop” and how this proverb resonates deeply with men, fathers, and business owners today. Whether it’s endless scrolling, ordering takeout, or losing hours to mindless routines, we’re talking about what it looks like to let idle hands dictate your life—and how to get back on track.
What You’ll Learn:
Key Topics:
🚀 Creative Business Lab launches today! 🚀
After 8 months of refining every lesson, I’m proud to introduce Creative Business Lab—a digital course designed specifically for creative entrepreneurs who are ready to break free from the burnout and build a profitable, scalable business. I was where you are three years ago: stuck, overwhelmed, doing it all myself, and struggling with inconsistent leads and no systems to grow.
If you’re ready to make real progress, Creative Business Lab gives you everything I’ve learned in one powerful program. This is the time to invest in your future as a creative business owner.
Join Now: Creative Business Lab
Weekly Challenge: This week, choose one daily goal that pulls you out of idle mode—whether it’s getting some exercise, preparing a meal, or turning off your phone to focus. Make it a priority and notice how even one small change impacts your productivity and mindset.
In this episode, we’re getting real about what’s holding you back from success. If you’re tired of losing, fed up with debt, and done feeling like a bad business owner while others seem to be thriving, this episode is for you. No rainbows, no sunshine—just honest talk about what it takes to get unstuck and start making real progress.
What You’ll Learn:
Key Topics:
Don’t miss the Creative Business Lab, launching November 12th! This digital course is packed with everything I’ve learned about scaling my agency to $50k+ MRR. If you’re ready to take your creative business to the next level, be on the lookout on my Instagram (@gordonly) for launch updates!
Weekly Challenge: Choose one impactful goal this week and dedicate 30 minutes a day to it. By the end of the week, you’ll see real momentum, not just “busy work.”
Take a screenshot of yourself listening to the Live to Create podcast and share it on Instagram, tagging me (@gordonly). One lucky listener will receive a FREE Bold Proposal Template to help you close clients with a professional, moodboard-packed proposal. Let’s see who’s tuning in!
In this episode of Live to Create, I sit down with my good friend and business partner, John Goldbranson, to dive deep into how video marketing has evolved over the past year. We explore the shift from polished, high-production ads to a more authentic, relatable form of storytelling that resonates deeply with today’s audiences. If you're a creative or business owner looking to connect with your audience on a meaningful level, this episode is packed with insights.
What You’ll Learn:
Key Topics:
Resources Mentioned:
Welcome back to Live to Create! In Episode 2, I’m diving into two crucial topics for every entrepreneur and creative: the importance of prioritizing your health and the power of having a strong support system.
As business owners, we often get caught up in the grind, but what happens when you get sick or burn out?
This week, I had a reality check when I came down with a cold after my son got sick (thanks, co-sleeping!). It threw me off balance and forced me to re-evaluate how critical it is to take care of yourself first—before you can take care of anyone else.
In this episode, I’ll share:
Stay tuned for the Creative Business Lab coming in November—early bird sale for the Founders Group! Imagine everything from my Creative Mastermind packed into 7 modules to help you scale a multi-six-figure agency. More details to come!
Take a screenshot of yourself listening to Live to Create and tag me (@gordonly) on Instagram. I’ll be giving away 1 FREE Bold Proposal Template to help you close clients with a professional, moodboard-packed proposal. Share, tag, and let’s connect!
In this episode of Live to Create, Gordon returns solo after a 3-year hiatus to dive deep into the unfiltered realities of entrepreneurship. The podcast is back, and this time, it's all about sharing consistent long-form value.
Gordon opens up about the hidden challenges of being a business owner, the unique worries that come with the territory, and the bigger rewards of being your own boss. This episode sheds light on what it truly takes to scale a multi 7-figure business and why the journey is worth it.
What You’ll Learn:
Key Topics:
Quick Shoutout: Check out Burgeon – skincare for men who want a clean and effective routine without breaking the bank. Visit burgeon.co. (Use GORDON20 to save 20%)
Resources Mentioned:
Let's Connect!
Instagram (@gordonly): https://www.instagram.com/gordonly
Resources:
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Let's Connect!
Instagram (@gordonly): https://www.instagram.com/gordonly
Resources:
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Let's Connect!
Instagram (@gordonly): https://www.instagram.com/gordonly
Connect with Scotty: https://www.instagram.com/scottyscheller
Resources:
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Let's Connect!
Instagram (@gordonly): https://www.instagram.com/gordonly
Resources:
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Let's Connect!
Instagram (@gordonly): https://www.instagram.com/gordonly
Resources:
Want my 70+ Email Template Guide? Grab it HERE
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
In this fire episode, I interview Tommy Patterson, the founder of WKND Digital. He has an 8 figure digital agency and creative studio based in Sacramento.
Tommy dives into the mindset of what it takes to get to his goal of scaling to a half-billion-dollar agency. DAMN!
These are priceless tips you can't get anywhere else... throw those headphones on and get ready for a fire podcast episode!
Let's Connect!
Instagram (@gordonly): https://www.instagram.com/gordonly
Resources:
Want my 70+ Email Template Guide? Grab it HERE
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Let's Connect!
Instagram (@gordonly): https://www.instagram.com/gordonly
Resources:
Want my 70+ Email Template Guide? Grab it HERE
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
In this episode, I interview Kirk Hensler, the founder of Hale Production Studios, based in San Diego.
Kirk runs a seven-figure creative studio specializing in photography, video production, and marketing content for 50-100 million dollar health + wellness brands.
This episode is SUPER valuable and can't wait to share with you guys everything we talked about! Enjoy.
Connect with Kirk:
Instagram (@haleproductionstudios): https://www.instagram.com/haleproductionstudios/
Resources:
Want my 70+ Email Template Guide? Grab it HERE
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
In this episode, I interview Peter Fowler - a freelance filmmaker based in Beaverton, Oregon.
We dive into how he started out in the filmmaking industry, the struggles he faced, and where he is now after six years.
Connect with Peter:
Instagram (@endurefilms): https://www.instagram.com/endurefilms/
Resources:
Want my 70+ Email Template Guide? Grab it HERE
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Want to learn how to sell your services on Instagram? In this episode, I share with you tips to create content to attract your dream clients.
Let's Connect!
Resources:
Want my 70+ Email Template Guide? Grab it HERE
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
In this episode, I interview Ben Hess - a talented DP and cinematographer based in Los Angeles.
We dive into how he transitioned from a wedding videographer to working with big-budget commercial clients.
Connect with Ben:
Instagram (@benhessfilms): https://www.instagram.com/benhessfilms/
Resources:
Want my 70+ Email Template Guide? Grab it HERE
Check out my FREE 10 Steps to $10k Guide
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Summary:
Does it grind your gears when clients want an 'easy' revision or just want to add on something 'extra'? Time is money.
In this podcast episode, I'll teach you guys how to nurture your client relationships and set your boundaries.
Resources:
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
Key Takeaways:
[1:24] Make tax season easier for you and your business by doing this
[1:56] The documents you need to open a business bank account
[2:30] Know the difference between a personal expense vs. business expense
[3:19] What I used to file taxes when I just started out in my business
[4:20] Some benefits of using Quickbooks
[4:40] The cons of doing taxes yourself
[6:05] When to hire a CPA and why I decided to do so
[7:53] The best time to invest in a CPA
[8:28] What to expect when you work with a CPA
[9:09] How much you can expect to pay for a CPA to file your taxes
Summary:
Are you a photographer, videographer, or creative and own your own business? One of the biggest struggles I see in the creative industry when it comes to business is TAXES. In this episode, I go over the pros and cons of using Quickbooks Self-Employed. I also go over how I do my taxes and when it’s time to invest in a CPA!
Resources:
Join my Facebook Group for photographers, filmmakers, and other creative entrepreneurs looking to learn how to scale their business, HERE.
