Feeling overwhelmed by your content creation workload? Discover how to boost your productivity and streamline your creative process with our latest episode!

Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson dive into a treasure trove of time-saving tools and techniques designed to help busy creators maximize their output without sacrificing quality or burning out.

What You'll Learn

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How to capture and refine ideas more efficiently
• Tools for streamlining video content creation
• Strategies for learning new skills while managing a busy schedule
• Innovative content ideas for niche audiences
• Monetization tips from successful lifestyle creators

Tools and Resources Discussed

• AudioPen - For converting spoken ideas into organized text
• Tella - A user-friendly screen recording and video creation tool
• DataCamp - An interactive learning platform for coding skills
• LearnCraft Spanish - An innovative approach to language learning
• Alitu - Our very own podcast creation and editing platform

Featured Creator: Nate Petrosky

Nate Petrosky is a shining example of how to turn your lifestyle into compelling content and a thriving business. As a short-form video creator primarily on TikTok, Nate has built a following of 3.6 million by documenting his off-grid homesteading life.

Content Strategy

• Authenticity: Nate's content revolves around his day-to-day life on his 100-acre homestead, including building his own house and tackling various challenges.
• Consistency: He regularly shares updates on his projects and daily activities, keeping his audience engaged and invested in his journey.
• Transparency: Nate is open about his business model and how he makes money, which builds trust with his audience.

Monetization Approach

• Product Creation: Nate collaborates with local businesses to create branded products, including custom coffee roasts and beard care oils.
• White Labeling: He's transparent about white-labeling products, focusing on working with local artisans to create unique offerings.
• Minimal Reliance on Platform Revenue: Nate is open about making very little from TikTok and YouTube directly, instead focusing on product sales through his website.

Key Takeaways for Creators

1. Document, Don't Create: Nate's success comes from simply documenting his authentic lifestyle rather than manufacturing content.
2. Find Your Niche: His off-grid homesteading content appeals to a specific audience interested in sustainable living and DIY projects.
3. Diversify Income Streams: By creating physical products, Nate has built a more stable income than relying solely on platform monetization.
4. Collaborate Locally: Working with local businesses allows Nate to offer unique products while supporting his community.
5. Build a Lifestyle Brand: Nate's content and products all tie into his overall lifestyle, creating a cohesive brand that resonates with his audience.

Try This Workflow

1. Use AudioPen to quickly capture and organize your content ideas
2. Create engaging video content with Tella's easy-to-use interface
3. Refine your skills in your downtime with platforms like DataCamp or LearnCraft
4. Look for unique angles in your daily life that could become compelling content, inspired by creators like Nate Petrosky

Additional Resources

• AudioPen
• Tella
• DataCamp
• LearnCraft Spanish
• Nate Petrosky on TikTok

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. And if you're looking to streamline your podcast production process, give Alitu - our podcast maker app - a try with a 7-day free trial!

In this special year-end episode, Colin and Jacob reflect on their key learnings from 2024 and share predictions for 2025. They discuss experiences and lessons learned in hiring and team building, the challenges of maintaining focus across different content mediums, and the evolving AI landscape. The hosts also share their commitments for the upcoming year, including Jacob's plans to start creating video content and Colin's goal to hire an assistant. The episode wraps up with gift recommendations, either for another creator in your life, or just a wee festive gift for yourself!

Resources Mentioned

• Pipdecks (strategy cards for creatives) - https://pipdecks.com
• Thule Paramount 27L Backpack
• Wenger Bags
• Cotopaxi Bag Del Dia
• Alitu Podcast Maker (code: CREATORTOOLBOX for 50% off first month) - https://alitu.com

Chapter List

00:00 - Introduction and Episode Overview

05:44 - Lessons Learned: Hiring and Team Building

13:18 - Focus and Content Creation Challenges

20:05 - AI Predictions for 2024

28:24 - Personal Commitments for 2024

40:07 - Gift Ideas for Creators

54:24 - Mistakes and Lessons from 2023

In this episode, Jacob explores the three major AI assistants and how creators can best leverage each one. Drawing from extensive hands-on experience, he breaks down the unique strengths of Claude, ChatGPT (including the new O1 model), and Gemini, providing practical guidance on which tool works best for different creator tasks.

Key Takeaways

👉 OpenAI's O1 excels at strategic planning and breaking down complex problems

👉 Claude is the top choice for writing tasks and maintaining consistent tone

👉 Gemini stands out for handling large amounts of text and data analysis

👉 Using multiple AI tools in combination often produces better results than relying on just one

👉 The quality of AI output directly correlates to the quality and specificity of your input

Resources Mentioned

👉 Guide to making your own AI writer with Claude

👉 Claude - Best for writing and content creation

👉 ChatGPT (O1 model) - Specialized in reasoning and planning

👉 Gemini - Handles large text analysis

👉 Deepseek R1 - Open source alternative

👉 O3 Mini - Free alternative to O1, available in ChatGPT

👉 Alitu - Podcast making app (alitu.com)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:03 OpenAI O1 overview and use cases

03:01 Claude capabilities and strengths

05:12 Gemini's unique advantages

07:27 Comparing the three assistants

13:34 Practical tips for using AI tools

20:02 Common pitfalls to avoid

22:25 Episode wrap-up

In this episode of The Creator Toolbox, we explore how to turn everyday moments into content gold, helping podcasters and creators build thriving channels.

We share real-world examples from top YouTubers like the Aquarium Co-Op and The Hoof GP.

Tune in to learn strategies for growing your audience, monetising "boring" niches, and boosting productivity with flexible co-working and AI tools.

This episode is perfect for content creators wanting to leverage everyday life for maximum impact.

⌚ Timestamps

00:00 - Intro

02:00 - Turning Everyday Moments into Content

04:20 - Examples of Successful Real-Life Content

09:30 - Monetising "Boring" Niches

13:45 - Productivity Tips for Creators

17:50 - Co-Working Spaces for Focus

26:15 - Productivity Hacks

35:00 - Using AI to Maximise Book Insights

45:10 - Final Thoughts

Welcome back to another episode of The Creator Toolbox! In this episode, we talk about our new Creator Toolbox blog and dive into ways to develop a website to suit our creative needs - from building it, to preparing the content and finally going live.

We discuss the blurry lines between a blog and a website. Jacob also gives some good examples from his own experience. We then expand on why we chose Ghost as the most suitable hosting platform for our content. We talk through differences with WordPress and general practicalities, including UX, coding, integrations and plugins, email marketing, and community-building. 

We delve into the crucial aspects of content ownership, but not for the sake of growth, discoverability, collaboration, conversation, and community building. Here, we touch on Substack, Ghost, LinkTree, Beehiiv, ConvertKit, and more.

Colin highlights the importance of owning customer relationship marketing through email marketing and presses a strong case for content ownership. He also shared a recent discovery of Bear, a minimal, no-nonsense blogging platform with no ads, trackers, or scripts. Jacob adds that Ghost also supports a short-form blog on the platform.

If you found this episode helpful, the best way to support us is by checking out Alitu, our podcast-maker app. We're always working to make podcasting accessible for creators like you.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll catch you on the next episode!

Struggling with overwhelming projects and not sure where to start, or having a hard time keeping track of your brand's impact? This episode is packed with a set of tools to help you work smart, and let AI do the hard work in planning your next project. Colin shows how he's turned AI into his own personal project manager, breaking down massive tasks into manageable steps and creating visual workflows that actually make sense. Then, Colin and Jacob explore Podscan, a smart tool that helps you discover who's talking about your brand in the podcast space - perfect for finding collaboration opportunities you might be missing. Plus, they tackle the often-confusing world of modern website building, cutting through the noise to help you find the fastest, most effective way to test new services or products without getting bogged down in technical complexity.

Chapter List

02:15 - Using AI for project management

17:29 - Introduction to Podscan

28:04 - Modern website building options

41:10 - AI-powered website development

Resources Mentioned:

• Alitu (https://www.alitu.com)
• Podscan by Arvid Kahl
• Notion (https://www.notion.so)
• Squarespace (https://www.squarespace.com)
• Webflow (https://webflow.com)
• Framer (https://www.framer.com)
• Ghost (https://ghost.org)
• Cursor.sh
• V0 by Vercel
• Bootstrap Web podcast
• Claude AI

Ever feel like you're spinning your wheels, busy with daily tasks but not making progress on your big creator goals? You're not alone! In this episode, Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson dive into the art of balancing short-term productivity with long-term vision.

From annual planning strategies to daily task management, we unpack the tools and techniques that can help you stay on track and achieve your creator dreams. Whether you're a podcaster, YouTuber, or any type of content creator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to level up your productivity game.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to create an effective annual planning framework
• Techniques for linking long-term goals to daily tasks
• The power of regular reflection in goal-setting
• Strategies for repurposing content across multiple platforms
• How to gather and leverage social proof for your creator business

Tools discussed:

• Video repurposing: Filmora, Omniclip, Chopity
• Social proof gathering: Senja
• Task management: Asana, Todoist

Featured creators:

Ollie Meekings and Wilson (Twitter handle: @eu_boyd) - The hosts highlight these software entrepreneurs for their commitment to building in public and their honesty about business challenges. Their approach offers valuable lessons for creators on transparency and authenticity in content creation.

Try this workflow: Annual to Daily Planning

1. Set aside a day for annual reflection and goal-setting
2. Break down annual goals into monthly strategies
3. Translate monthly strategies into weekly plans
4. Review your plans regularly:
   • Look at annual goals monthly
   • Review monthly strategies weekly
   • Check weekly plans daily
5. Adjust as needed based on progress and changing circumstances

This workflow helps ensure your daily tasks align with your long-term vision, keeping you on track towards your bigger creator goals.

Resources:

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• Elon Musk biography podcast by Walter Isaacson
• "Shoe Dog" by Phil Knight (mentioned as a favorite biography)
• Morning Brew newsletter (example of storytelling in content)

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - to streamline your podcast production process!

In this episode, we explore two key tools for creators looking to level up their business: media kits and personal websites. We start by breaking down what goes into an effective media kit - from showcasing your audience stats to highlighting your unique value proposition. We talk about using media kits not just for sponsorships, but also for podcast guest appearances, collaborations, and PR opportunities. The conversation then shifts to personal websites, where we contrast super simple approaches like Derek Sivers' minimal one-pager with more elaborate creator sites like Ali Abdaal's. Throughout the episode, we discuss practical tools for building both media kits and personal sites, including Notion, Canva, and various website builders. We wrap up with tips on how to get started without feeling overwhelmed by making it simple and building it up over time.

Key Takeaways:

=A media kit should tell your story and solve problems - focus on showing potential partners who you are, what problems you solve, and why you're unique

=Keep your first version simple - start with a basic Notion page or one-pager that covers the essentials, then iterate based on the questions you get asked

=Think beyond sponsorships - your media kit can help land podcast guest spots, speaking gigs, and collaborative opportunities

=Personal sites don't need to be complex - a simple, regularly updated page about who you are and what you're working on can be more effective than an elaborate website

=Start small and build over time - whether it's a media kit or personal site, begin with the basics and expand as needed

Resources Mentioned:

=Notion - For creating simple media kits and personal sites

=Canva - Design tool for creating media kit layouts

=Adobe Express - Another option for media kit design

=Passion Fruit - Platform for podcast sponsorships

=Gumroad - Platform for selling digital products

=Interview Valet - Podcast interview booking service

=Derek Sivers - sivers.org - Example of minimal personal site

=Ali Abdaal - aliabdaal.com - Example of full creator personal site

=Alitu - Podcast making app (alitu.com)

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome and introductions

02:01 What is a media kit?

04:54 Different uses for media kits

08:33 What to include in your media kit

15:40 Tools for creating media kits

19:55 Introduction to personal websites

23:42 Different approaches to personal sites

27:15 Derek Sivers site example

31:26 Ali Abdaal site comparison

34:20 Getting started tips

37:07 Episode wrap-up

This week, we're queuing up a chat about YouTube scripting tools, no-code app building, pro vs amateur mindsets, what we can learn from Jay Clouse, and a mindset for producing authentic content on a daily basis. Join us!

In this video, we dig deep into the mindset and systems that power a ridiculously consistent and long lived podcast. My guest is Matty Lansdowne, from the How Not to Get Sick and Die Podcast, and he shares how he built his show to over 400 episodes, much of that time while working a full-time job. We explore the psychology of consistency, practical systems for success, and strategies for maintaining quality content production.

Matty also shares insights on building a profitable business through podcasting, and using AI tools for content repurposing. Finally, we dig into the balance between different content platforms and the importance of focusing on what works rather than trying to be everywhere.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your show, we're sharing actionable insights on building sustainable content workflows, recruiting and developing team members effectively, and creating a content strategy that stands the test of time.

Check out Matty's show over at https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-to-not-get-sick-and-die/id1450212088

And to make the production process even easier, check out: https://alitu.com - the easiest podcast creation platform on the planet.

Chapter List

00:00 - Introduction and Matty's Background

02:05 - Mindset for Consistent Podcasting

07:19 - Building Systems and Team Management

17:43 - Content Repurposing Workflow

23:39 - Business Model Behind the Podcast

34:01 - YouTube Strategy Discussion

43:36 - Content Volume and Platform Choice

52:30 - Wrap-up and Resources

We kicked off talking about a big change we're making to our annual planning cadence. Instead of following the traditional January-December cycle, we're shifting to a March-February year. Why? Because December-January is such a mess with holidays and slow starts! We found that planning during this time just doesn't work well. By making March 1st the start of our planning year, we're using January-February as a time for reflection, strategy planning, and wrapping up previous projects. This gives us a nice fresh start in the springtime.

Then Jacob introduced us to "vibe coding" - a term coined by Andres Carpathy. It's about using AI tools like Claude or Cursor to generate code without really understanding the code itself. You describe what you want, and the AI builds it for you. We discussed how tools like Replit, Lovable, and Bolt.new make this possible even for non-coders. Jacob shared great examples, including how someone built a multiplayer flight simulator game in just one day! This approach works especially well for personal tools or weekend projects.

I shared how I've been using Claude as a resource by creating a project focused initially on designing an agency. The cool part is that I've ended up using this knowledge base for all sorts of other projects - from mastermind landing pages to coaching proposals. The AI basically interviews me and builds up a profile of my skills and experience that I can later tap into for various content needs.

Finally, Jacob highlighted Caleb Hammer as his creator of the week. Caleb runs a YouTube show called "Financial Audit" where he reviews people's financial situations (often a bit brutally!) and helps them create a plan to improve. The format is consistent but always feels fresh because each guest brings different financial challenges. Jacob noted how well Caleb has monetized through relevant sponsorships, memberships with behind-the-scenes content, and even creating his own budgeting app.

Takeaways

= Consider shifting your annual planning cycle to March-February if the traditional January start feels rushed and disrupted by holidays

= AI tools like Replit now make it possible for non-coders to create functional web apps and tools - especially for personal use or to solve specific problems

= Building a dedicated AI "project" that knows your skills and experience can become a valuable resource for various content creation tasks

= Bringing audience members onto your show as guests can create fresh, relatable content while still maintaining a consistent format

= Multiple monetization streams work best when they're naturally integrated into your content - Caleb Hammer's example shows how sponsors can be woven in without feeling disruptive

Resources

= Replit - A coding platform with AI capabilities that's great for beginners (https://replit.com/)

= Lovable - AI-powered app building tool (https://www.lovable.ai/)

= Bolt.new - Another no-code tool for building with AI (https://bolt.new/)

= Cursor - Advanced AI coding tool mentioned for more experienced users (https://cursor.sh/)

= Claude 3.7 - The new Claude AI model that Alistair mentioned for coding help

= Caleb Hammer's YouTube channel - Financial audit show (https://www.youtube.com/c/CalebHammer)

= Alitu - Our podcast creation app with new video recording features (https://alitu.com) - use code CREATORTOOLBOX for 50% off your first month

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction and episode overview

00:01:14 Changing our annual planning cadence to March-February

00:07:38 Why 12-month planning can be arbitrary and limiting

00:11:43 What is "vibe coding" and how does it work?

00:20:28 Replit as a beginner-friendly coding tool

00:24:32 Personal software development using AI tools

00:34:01 Using Claude as a resource for multiple projects

00:43:00 Caleb Hammer as creator of the week

00:47:04 How Caleb monetizes his financial audit show

00:52:32 Closing remarks and Alitu promotion

Ever dreamed of creating your own software but thought you lacked the technical skills? In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Jacob and special guest Bran explore how AI is revolutionizing the way creators can build tools and software for their audience – even with limited coding experience!

Discover how AI-powered coding assistants like ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, and Cursor are breaking down barriers and empowering creators to turn their ideas into reality. Whether you're a content creator, educator, or entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you to leverage AI in your creative process.

What you'll learn:

• How AI tools can help non-technical creators build software
• Real-world examples of using AI to create games and productivity tools
• The current capabilities and limitations of AI coding assistants
• Tips for getting started with AI-powered development
• The potential impact of AI on the future of software development

Tools discussed:

• ChatGPT
• GitHub Copilot
• Cursor
• Visual Studio Code

Try this workflow:

1. Start with a clear idea for your software or tool
2. Use ChatGPT to create a basic project plan and break it down into steps
3. Leverage AI coding assistants like Cursor or GitHub Copilot to help write and debug code
4. Iterate and refine your project, using AI to fill knowledge gaps in design, marketing, and business setup

Key takeaways:

1. AI coding assistants can help creators overcome technical barriers and bring their ideas to life
2. Start small and be willing to learn along the way – AI tools make the learning process more accessible
3. Use AI to fill knowledge gaps in various aspects of product development, from coding to marketing
4. While AI can significantly speed up development, human oversight and verification are still crucial
5. The future of software development may involve a symbiosis between human creativity and AI assistance

Resources:

• OpenAI's ChatGPT
• GitHub Copilot
• Cursor
• Visual Studio Code
• Svelte (JavaScript framework mentioned by Jacob)

Have you used AI to create software or tools for your audience? We'd love to hear about it! Email us at info@thepodcasthost.com and share your experience.

Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

In this episode, we dig into four fantastic tools and strategies for creators. Jacob kicks things off by sharing his pocket-filling discovery of 2023 - the Revolut Ultra plan. This premium bank account is packed with creator-friendly perks like WeWork passes, airport lounges, and a bundle of premium subscriptions. Next, Colin walks us through his annual planning process, sharing the exact framework he's developed since 2015 for reviewing the past year and setting up for success. Finally, we explore the world of creator events, from intimate gatherings like Craft & Commerce to massive festivals like SXSW, helping you choose which ones might be worth your time in 2024. We wrap up with some practical tips on screen recording tools for content creation, comparing Filmora and Movavi as alternatives to the aging Camtasia.

For the full annual planning guide, as mentioned by Colin, go to: https://creator.alitu.com/creator/annual-planning-for-creators/

Chapter List:

00:00 - Introduction and microphone setup

04:41 - Revolut Ultra: A creator's perfect bank account?

20:23 - Annual Planning Framework

31:46 - Personal vs Professional Goals

36:02 - Creator Events for 2024

48:52 - Screen Recording Tools Update

50:16 - Outro and Alitu special offer

Ever wondered how a tech blogger becomes a sought-after brand ambassador? Discover the inspiring journey of Richard Tubb, from IT business owner to influential content creator in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry.

Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson sit down with Richard Tubb to explore his two-decade journey in content creation, discussing the tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that have shaped his success. From leveraging new technologies to building long-term brand partnerships, Richard shares invaluable insights for creators at any stage of their journey.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to evolve from a blogger to a respected industry voice
• Strategies for building and monetizing your audience
• The power of experiments in content creation
• Tips for forging valuable, long-term brand partnerships
• Tools and techniques to enhance your content workflow

Tools discussed:

• Elgato Teleprompter: A game-changer for video content creation
• Crazy Egg: Website optimization and user behavior analysis
• Adobe Premiere: Advanced video editing with new AI-powered features
• Manifestly: Streamlining team workflows with collaborative checklists

Featured creators:

• Paul Green (MSP Marketing Edge): Blending old-school marketing tactics with modern content strategies
• John Espirian (LinkedIn Nerd): Master of relentless helpfulness and LinkedIn content optimization

Richard, Colin, and Jacob dive deep into the evolving landscape of content creation, discussing how to maintain authenticity while working with brands, the importance of valuing your audience, and the mindset shifts necessary for long-term success in the creator economy.

Try this workflow: The "Experiment" Approach

1. Identify an area of your content strategy you want to improve
2. Frame the change as an "experiment" rather than a permanent shift
3. Set a timeframe for the experiment (e.g., 2-3 months)
4. Communicate the experiment to your team and audience
5. Gather feedback and data throughout the experiment
6. Evaluate results and decide whether to implement permanently, adjust, or end the experiment

Resources:

• Tubb Blog
• Elgato Teleprompter
• Crazy Egg
• Manifestly
• MSP Marketing Edge
• John Espirian's Website

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Are you running a local business and dreaming of reaching a global audience? Discover how content creation can revolutionize your reach and transform your business model!

In this episode, Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson explore the power of content creation in expanding a traditional business's reach. They dive into real-world examples, practical strategies, and tools that can help you transition from a local service provider to a global content creator.

What you'll learn:

• How to leverage content creation to expand your business globally
• Strategies for building a content funnel that attracts and converts customers
• Tools for managing newsletters and staying on top of industry trends
• Insights from successful creators who've made the leap from local to global

Tools discussed:

• ConvertKit: For automated newsletter creation and RSS feed integration
• Stoop: A dedicated app for managing newsletter subscriptions
• Omnivore: An open-source tool for managing newsletters and RSS feeds
• Sparktoro: An audience research tool for finding the best channels to reach your audience

Featured creator: Modern Malinois

Jacob breaks down the success story of Modern Malinois, a dog training business that expanded its reach globally through content creation:

1. Top of funnel: Creating engaging, discoverable content (e.g., YouTube Shorts)
2. Middle of funnel: Offering exclusive, opt-in content to gather leads
3. Bottom of funnel: Selling high-value products or services to a warm audience

This approach allows businesses to monetize both local and global audiences effectively.

Try this workflow: Content Funnel Creation

1. Use Sparktoro to research your audience and identify the best channels for your content
2. Create top-of-funnel content that showcases your expertise (e.g., blog posts, videos, podcasts)
3. Develop a lead magnet (e.g., email course, webinar) to capture email addresses
4. Set up an email sequence using ConvertKit to nurture leads
5. Offer paid products or services to your warm audience, both locally and globally

Resources:

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• Basecamp's "Shape Up" method
• Chris Williamson's podcast for inspiration on innovative video content

Challenge:

Think about how you can apply the Modern Malinois method to your business. What type of content could you create to reach a global audience? Share your ideas with us on social media using #CreatorToolbox!

Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Is your creative mind bursting with ideas but struggling to turn them into consistent content? Discover how to organize your thoughts, streamline your workflow, and sustainably grow your creator business!

Join Colin Gray, Jacob Anderson, and special guest Ian Anderson Gray as they dive deep into productivity systems, community building, and leveraging AI to supercharge your content creation process.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to use tools like Notion and the PARA method to organize your creative ideas
• Strategies for consistent content creation from successful creators
• The power of community in supporting your creator journey
• Ways to leverage AI for enhanced productivity and learning
• Tips for balancing creativity with organization

Tools discussed:

• Notion: For organizing tasks, projects, and information
• The PARA method: A system for personal knowledge management
• Time blocking and weekly planning techniques
• ChatGPT and other AI tools for content creation and learning

Featured creators:

• Tiago Forte: Known for his "Building a Second Brain" methodology
• Mark Schaefer: Creator of the RISE community
• Rob Walling: Host of the "Startups for the Rest of Us" podcast

Try this workflow:

Implement a weekly planning session using time blocking:

1. Choose a consistent day and time each week for planning (e.g., Sunday evening or Monday morning)
2. Review your upcoming week and identify your top priorities
3. Use a tool like Google Calendar or Notion to block out time for specific types of work (e.g., content creation, admin tasks, community engagement)
4. Assign specific tasks to each time block, ensuring your most important work gets scheduled
5. Leave some flexibility for unexpected tasks or creative inspiration
6. At the end of each week, review your progress and adjust your system as needed

Resources:

• Tiago Forte's Building a Second Brain
• Mark Schaefer's RISE Community
• Rob Walling's Startups for the Rest of Us Podcast
• Notion
• The PARA Method explained
• Cal Newport's Deep Work

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Are you curious about the future of creator businesses and the power of community? Discover how community-first strategies are reshaping the creator economy!

In this episode, Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson sit down with Mathilde Leo from Circle to explore the evolving landscape of online communities, content creation, and the tools that are empowering creators to build thriving businesses.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How community-led businesses are changing the creator economy
• Insights on transitioning from traditional content creation to community-first models
• The power of authentic connections in building a sustainable creator business
• Tools and strategies for managing and growing online communities
• The potential of community-based platforms in combating AI-generated content overload

Tools discussed:

• Circle: Community platform for creators
• Figjam: Collaborative whiteboarding tool
• Miro: Online visual collaboration platform
• TubeBuddy: YouTube channel growth and optimization tool
• Fathom AI: AI-powered meeting assistant

Featured creator:

Damon Dominique - A multilingual content creator who successfully reinvented his brand and built a thriving community-based business. Known for his travel content, language courses, and authentic approach to sharing his experiences living abroad.

Try this workflow: Community-First Content Strategy

1. Identify your niche and target audience
2. Set up a community platform (e.g., Circle) to host your content and facilitate discussions
3. Create a content calendar that includes a mix of:
   • Regular community events (e.g., live Q&As, workshops)
   • User-generated content opportunities
   • Exclusive content for community members
4. Engage with your community regularly, encouraging discussions and connections between members
5. Use community feedback to inform your content creation and product development
6. Experiment with different monetization strategies within your community (e.g., paid memberships, courses, exclusive events)

Resources mentioned:

• Circle's 2024 Community Benchmark Report
• The Rest is Politics Podcast
• Damon Dominique's YouTube Channel
• "Your Global Citizen" by Damon Dominique

Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Visit The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

On this episode, we dive into some automation tools that can really boost your productivity as a creator. I shared my experience with the Stream Deck, which has become an unexpected favorite of mine. It's not just for streamers – I use it for everything from controlling my studio lights to automating repetitive tasks in video editing. We also touched on browser recording tools for automating web tasks and text expansion for speeding up writing. These might seem like small time-savers, but they really add up.

Next, Jacob introduced us to the concept of a "Story Brand" by Donald Miller. This is a powerful marketing framework that puts your customer at the center of the story, with your product or service as the guide. It's all about simplifying your message and connecting with your audience on a deeper level. We even explored how Apple used a similar storytelling approach in their iconic "Think Different" campaign. It's fascinating to see how effective this can be.

Lastly, we tackled a challenge that I think many creators face – balancing new projects with existing ones. We discussed strategies like outsourcing updates, taking on partners, and keeping a database of all your projects. I shared my own experience with this, including a course I created called "Immortal Content" that I haven't promoted much. It's a constant juggling act, but it's important to revisit old projects and see if they can be revived or integrated into your current work.

We wrapped up by highlighting Steph Smith as our creator of the week. Her ability to consistently ship new projects while maintaining high-quality content is really inspiring.

Remember, if you found this episode helpful, the best way to support us is by checking out Alitu, our podcast maker app, at alitu.com. We're always working to make podcasting as easy as possible for creators like you.

Thanks for tuning in, and we'll catch you on the next episode!

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:10 - Episode overview

01:49 - Alitu support slot

03:12 - Tool of the week: Stream Deck

07:05 - Automation tools discussion

17:40 - Introduction to Story Brand concept

20:01 - Applying Story Brand to different creators

28:28 - Importance of having a plan in Story Brand

32:49 - Apple's "Think Different" campaign example

40:57 - Implementing Story Brand

45:23 - Creator of the week: Steph Smith

49:19 - Balancing multiple projects as a creator

58:27 - Wrap-up and closing thoughts

In this episode of Creator Toolbox, hosts Colin and Jacob explore several key topics affecting content creators. Colin kicks things off with a detailed look at his switch from Asana to TickTick for task management, explaining how he's created a more effective system for handling ideas and daily tasks. The conversation then shifts to a discussion of Project Stargate, a proposed $500 billion AI initiative, with Jacob expressing skepticism about its feasibility and environmental impact. The hosts dive deep into the concerning trend of declining organic search traffic, analyzing HubSpot's dramatic traffic drop and its implications for content creators. They explore potential strategies for adapting to AI-driven search, including focusing on fact-based content and building stronger partnerships. The episode wraps up with Colin sharing his latest experiments with short-form video content and his approach to creating more engaging gear-focused content.

1. Resources Mentioned:

• Task Management Tools:
  • TickTick (https://ticktick.com)
  • Asana (https://asana.com)
  • Motion (https://www.usemotion.com)
• Video Equipment:
  • Joby GorillaPod
  • DJI Osmo Mobile Gimbal
  • Filmora (video editing software)
• Websites/Companies:
  • HubSpot (https://hubspot.com)
  • Niche Pursuits (https://www.nichepursuits.com)
  • DeepSeek R1 (AI model)

In this episode of The Creator Toolbox, we dive into a bunch of cool topics that every creator should be thinking about. First up, we talk about private podcasting and how it can be an awesome way to monetize your content and build a tight-knit community around your show. We then explore Ripple, a new tool designed by Brian Cassell, which combines private podcasting with community-building features—perfect for creators looking to offer exclusive content and interact more directly with their audience.

Next, we tackle the topic of affiliate marketing—is it dead? We debate how affiliate marketing has changed, the rise of massive conglomerates dominating search results, and the shift from blogging to influencer and podcast-driven affiliate deals. Spoiler: it's not dead, but it's definitely evolved. Lastly, we chat about community engagement and why it's key to not only getting feedback on your episodes but also improving your show over time. With tools like Ripple, you can make that process seamless and fun!

Key Takeaways:

1. Private podcasting is a great way to monetize your content and build a deeper connection with your core audience by offering exclusive content.
2. Community is key to engagement—letting your listeners interact with each other boosts loyalty and can help you improve your show with direct feedback.
3. Affiliate marketing isn’t dead, but it’s changed. Going niche and offering real value and education is now the best way to succeed with affiliate deals.
4. Leverage tools like Ripple to combine podcasting and community-building for both public and private podcasting—giving your listeners a place to engage.
5. Involve your audience in content creation—ask them what they want to hear, get their feedback, and let them feel ownership of your episodes.

Resources:

• Ripple – A tool combining private podcasting and community-building. Learn more: ripple.fm
• Bootstrap Web Podcast – Hosted by Brian Cassell and Jordan Gal, discussing building businesses and creating products. Check it out here
• Indie Pod Community – Mentioned as an existing space for creators and podcasters to connect and discuss all things podcasting.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

00:52 - Mangoes and Thailand (Jacob’s adventures)

02:00 - Private podcasting and monetization options

05:00 - Ripple

10:00 - Building communities around podcasts: Public vs. private

15:00 - Should we use Ripple for our show? The debate begins

18:10 - Is affiliate marketing dead? The evolution of the industry

24:00 - The impact of big media conglomerates on affiliate marketing

29:00 - How creators can still win with affiliate deals

31:00 - Engaging superfans with private content and low-production podcasts

35:00 - Community-driven content creation: A secret to better episodes

40:00 - Final thoughts

Ever feel like you're spinning your wheels, constantly busy but not making real progress? In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob cut through the "hustle culture" noise to share practical, actionable strategies for true productivity as a content creator.

What You'll Learn

Discover how to:

• Implement effective time blocking and deep work techniques
• Prioritize tasks and manage your energy, not just your time
• Create a productive work environment that suits your style
• Handle distractions and maintain focus in a world of constant notifications
• Use "cycles" for better long-term planning and goal-setting

Key Takeaways

1. Time Blocking and Deep Work

Colin and Jacob stress the importance of dedicating specific blocks of time to focused work:

• Schedule your week in advance, allocating time for different types of tasks (e.g., writing, meetings, admin)
• Use time blocking to create a structure that ensures you tackle priority tasks
• Implement "deep work" sessions by turning off notifications and focusing solely on important tasks

2. Creating the Right Work Environment

Your workspace can significantly impact your productivity:

• Find an environment that helps you focus - this might be a dedicated home office, a co-working space, or even a coffee shop
• Separate your work area from relaxation spaces to maintain a healthy work-life balance
• Experiment to find what works best for you - some people thrive on the energy of others working nearby

3. Managing Distractions

In our hyper-connected world, managing distractions is crucial:

• Be intentional about when you check emails and messages
• Use "Do Not Disturb" modes on your devices during focused work periods
• Communicate clearly with your team about your availability and focus times

4. Prioritization and Cycles

Effective prioritization ensures you're working on what matters most:

• Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks by importance and urgency
• Work in "cycles" (e.g., 2-month periods) to set and review goals
• Break larger projects into smaller, achievable tasks to maintain motivation

5. Task Management Systems

Having a reliable system for managing tasks is essential:

• Use a task management tool that allows you to assign dates to tasks and categorize them
• Implement an "inbox" system for new tasks to be triaged and organized later
• Regularly review and update your task list to ensure it remains relevant and actionable

Try This Workflow: Weekly Planning

1. Set aside time every Monday morning for weekly planning
2. Review your goals for the current "cycle" (e.g., 2-month period)
3. Block out time in your calendar for priority tasks and deep work sessions
4. Schedule in breaks and buffer time for unexpected tasks
5. Review and organize your task list, assigning dates and priorities
6. End the week by journaling about your progress and setting intentions for the following week

Resources Mentioned

• Asana - Project management and task tracking tool
• Todoist - Popular to-do list and task manager
• The Podcast Host - Colin's podcast resource website
• Alitu - Podcast creation tool (Try the 7-day free trial!)
• "Shape Up" by Basecamp - Book on project management cycles
• "Getting Things Done" by David Allen - Productivity methodology book

In this episode, Colin and Jacob discuss the "Big Five" content strategy, a framework for creating content that attracts your audience at every stage of the buying process. The Big Five content areas are: cost and pricing, best-of lists, problems, comparisons, and reviews. They explain how each area can be used to generate content ideas, regardless of your industry. They also discuss how these different content types can be used to reach people at all stages of the buying process, from those who are just starting to research a problem to those who are ready to make a purchase.

Key Takeaways:

• The Big Five content strategy helps you create content that attracts your audience at every stage of the buying process. 
• The five content areas are: cost and pricing, best-of lists, problems, comparisons, and reviews. 
• This strategy can be used to generate content ideas regardless of your industry. 
• By creating content in each of the five areas, you can reach people at all stages of the buying process. 

Resources Mentioned:

• Marcus Sheridan - Content expert and creator of the Big Five content strategy  
• They Ask, You Answer - Book by Marcus Sheridan  
• The Podcast Host - Website and blog about podcasting  
• The Creator Toolbox - Website and blog about content creation  
• Alitu - Podcast creation tool  

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 05:45 The Big Five content strategy
• 06:55 Cost and pricing
• 11:05 Best-of lists
• 16:35 Problems
• 19:55 Comparisons
• 24:05 Reviews
• 33:35 The buying process
• 42:35 AI and the future of content creation
• 44:05 Creator of the week: Drumeo
• 47:25 How to adapt the Drumeo format
• 52:50 Wrap-up

In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob share their strategy for growing the podcast over the next 6-12 months. We discuss shifting to a "newsletter-first" approach, where the podcast generates content that then flows into newsletters, blog posts, and social media. We explore how this approach feels more future-proof in an environment where SEO is becoming less reliable, and how it gives us more creative freedom. Throughout the conversation, we share our plans for improving social media presence with more effective video clips, professionalizing our self-promotion efforts, and bringing back guest collaborations to help grow our audience.

We also talk openly about what we're NOT going to focus on right now - specifically paid advertising and building a community platform. While both are valuable, we know we need to establish our content infrastructure first before investing in these areas. The episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at our planning process and how we're balancing ambition with focus to avoid overwhelming ourselves.

Key Takeaways

🟢 Newsletter-first content strategy: We're shifting from SEO-dependent blog content to building a newsletter as our primary content hub, giving us more creative freedom and a direct connection with our audience.

🟢 Repurpose content strategically: Create podcast episodes with 2-3 solid topics that can be expanded into newsletter content and blog posts, while saving some exclusive content for each platform.

🟢 Experimenting with video clips for social growth: Short-form content on YouTube Shorts, Instagram, and TikTok is crucial for discoverability, even when your main content is long-form.

🟢 Professionalize your self-promotion: Treat yourself as a paying sponsor with proper tracking links, polished ad reads, and clear calls to action - don't be shy about promoting what you've built.

🟢 Say no to grow: We're intentionally NOT pursuing paid advertising and community building right now to ensure we can fully focus on content infrastructure.

Resources Mentioned

🟢 Beehive newsletter platform - https://beehiiv.com/

🟢 ConvertKit (now called Kit) - https://kit.com/

🟢 Opus clipping tool - https://www.opus.pro/

🟢 Alitu podcast maker app - https://alitu.com/

🟢 Circle community platform - https://circle.so/

🟢 Publish Press newsletter - https://www.thepublishpress.com/

🟢 Morning Brew newsletter - https://www.morningbrew.com/

🟢 14 Ways to Collaborate with other Podcasters - blog post & YouTube video

Chapters

00:02:24 Newsletter-first publishing workflow

00:05:44 Creating value across multiple platforms

00:08:05 Why newsletters feel more future-proof

00:12:01 Using Beehive for growth tools

00:14:14 Our social media strategy with clips

00:19:26 Adding guest collaborations back

00:23:01 Professionalizing our self-promotion

00:27:52 Treating ourselves as a sponsor

00:31:47 What we're NOT focusing on right now

00:36:31 closing thoughts

In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob dive into three main topics:

Colin's recent launch of the revamped Podcraft Academy 2.0, Jacob's insights on First Promoter's new features for affiliate marketing, and a deep dive into community platform options.

Colin shares his experience running a week-long email campaign for the Academy launch, including his approach to writing daily emails with video content and managing customer responses.

Jacob then explores First Promoter 2.0's improvements, particularly their new focus on discount codes for podcast/video creators and enhanced communication features.

The episode wraps up with an extensive discussion about community platforms, comparing options like Circle, Discord, Slack, and others, before concluding with a conversation about the importance of content creators reviewing their own work.

Key Takeaways

• When launching a product via email, consider recording personal videos to include in each email - it helps break up the text and adds a human element to your communications
• Modern affiliate marketing is shifting away from traditional links toward discount codes, especially for audio/video content creators where sharing links is impractical
• When choosing a community platform, consider whether you need specialized features (like course hosting) or if you're better off using platforms where your audience already exists (like Discord)

Resources Mentioned:

• First Promoter (firstpromoter.com)
• Circle (circle.so)
• Teachable (teachable.com)
• Podia (podia.com)
• Mighty Networks (mightynetworks.com)
• ConvertKit (convertkit.com)
• Podcraft Academy (thepodcasthost.com/academy)
• Alitu (alitu.com)

Chapter List:

[00:00] Introduction and catch-up

[01:13] Discussing upcoming topics

[02:15] Academy 2.0 launch experience and email campaign strategy

[19:11] First Promoter 2.0 features and affiliate marketing trends

[29:19] Community platform comparison and engagement strategies

[41:21] Creator self-review practices and improvement techniques

[48:27] Outro and promotional codes

Feeling stuck in a creative rut? Discover how to transform your low-energy days into productive powerhouses with our latest episode of Creator Toolbox!

Join Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson as they dive into practical strategies for boosting productivity, leveraging new tools, and expanding your creator business. Whether you're a podcaster, writer, or aspiring content entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you level up your creative game.

What you'll learn:

• How to use AI-powered journaling to track your progress and overcome creative blocks
• Tips for setting up a high-quality streaming setup with tools like the Rode Streamer X
• Strategies for expanding your niche audience to a broader creator market
• The power of community platforms like Circle for engaging and growing your audience
• How to structure your content to cater to both beginners and experienced creators

Tools discussed:

• Rode Streamer X: A versatile device for streamers and content creators
• Circle: A community platform for building and engaging with your audience
• OpenAI's latest model: For summarizing and analyzing journal entries
• Voice Notes app: For quick and easy audio journaling

Featured Creator Spotlight:

Colin shares insights from Jason Greystone, host of the "Always Free" podcast, who has built a successful business model around his content. Learn how Jason uses a combination of free content, courses, coaching, and mastermind groups to monetize his audience effectively.

Try this workflow: AI-Powered Journaling for Creators

1. Use your phone's voice notes app to record a 5-10 minute audio journal entry
2. Upload the MP3 to OpenAI's latest model for transcription and summarization
3. Review the AI-generated summary for insights and patterns in your creative process
4. Use these insights to adjust your workflow and overcome creative blocks

Resources:

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• Alitu - The Podcast Maker App
• Circle Community Platform
• Jason Greystone's "Always Free" podcast

Ready to supercharge your productivity and take your creator business to the next level? Try implementing one of the strategies discussed in this episode and share your results with us using #CreatorToolbox on social media!

Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and give Alitu - our podcast maker app - a try with a 7-day free trial!

In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob dive deep into two game-changing topics for content creators. First, they explore an innovative AI-powered system for repurposing podcast content into written articles, discussing the potential and limitations of this technology. They then shift gears to compare various camera setups for video content creation, from high-end DSLRs to user-friendly webcams, offering insights on quality, ease of use, and price points. This episode is packed with practical advice for creators looking to streamline their workflow and enhance their content quality.

Episode Guide

• 00:00 - Introduction and catch-up
• 01:17 - AI-powered content repurposing system
• 15:52 - Tips for working with AI in content creation
• 29:15 - Importance of prompt engineering in AI
• 41:29 - Camera setups for content creators
• 41:29 - Jacob's iPhone 15 Pro setup
• 45:40 - Colin's DSLR webcam setup
• 53:21 - Affordable DSLR options
• 55:11 - Insta360 webcam review
• 56:25 - Opal C1 webcam discussion
• 59:41 - Episode wrap-up and Alitu mention

Resources Mentioned

• Claude AI by Anthropic: https://www.anthropic.ai/
• Canon EOS Webcam Utility Pro: https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/support/self-help-center/eos-webcam-utility/
• Canon M50 camera
• Elgato Prompter
• Sony ZV-E10 Mark II camera
• Insta360 webcam: https://www.insta360.com/
• Opal C1 webcam: https://opalcamera.com/
• Logitech C920 webcam
• Alitu podcast maker app: https://alitu.com/

In the latest episode of The Creator Toolbox, we cover writing tools (find the best space to create shownotes, scripts or full-scale blog posts!) and SEO for a new content project (my full process for figuring out the first 30 to 50 episodes or posts on a brand new brand).

In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of content creation and marketing with special guest Gavin Bell, founder of PPC agency Yatter. Discover how creators and agencies are adapting their strategies to stay ahead in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.

What you'll learn:

• The shift from traditional content creation to more authentic, "micro-vlog" style content
• How AI and machine learning are reshaping paid advertising and agency work
• Strategies for transitioning from solo creator to building a successful agency
• Tools and techniques for streamlining content creation and distribution
• Insights on staying relevant in today's fast-paced digital marketing environment

Tools discussed:

• Asana: For organizing content creation and project management
• Agorapulse: For content scheduling and managing social media engagement
• OpenAI's Sora: Potential game-changer for video content creation (not yet publicly available)

Featured creator:

Gavin highlights Jake Hughes (@jakehughesss on Instagram) for his authentic approach to content creation, showcasing real cold-calling attempts to businesses.

Try this workflow:

Gavin shares his team's "micro-vlog" content creation strategy:

1. Capture day-to-day office activities on camera
2. Keep videos short (15-20 seconds) and unscripted
3. Edit quickly with engaging animations
4. Post consistently (3-5 times per week) on social media platforms

Resources:

• Yatter website
• Gavin Bell on LinkedIn (search for "Mr Gavin Bell")
• Jake Hughes on Instagram (@jakehughesss)
• "$100 Million Offers" by Alex Hormozi

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

In this episode of the Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob discuss their journey of iterating on this very show, and how a podcast can develop and evolve over it's first few months. They delve into the process of turning it from an experimental show into a whole new content brand, and this could apply to you whether it be a podcast, YouTube channel, blog, or creator brand in general. Listeners get valuable insights on launching, iterating, and refining their content channels, even if you're not 100% sure what it plans to be in the early days. Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of building a successful creator business, including case studies from the journey of ThePodcastHost over the past 14 years, and into the new journey for the Creator Toolbox.

Are you overwhelmed by the countless options for building your creator community and delivering courses? Discover the pros and cons of popular platforms and find the perfect fit for your needs!

Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson, from The Podcast Host and Alitu, dive deep into the world of community and teaching platforms. They share their personal experiences, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of various options, and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision for your creator business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The key features to look for in community and teaching platforms
• Pros and cons of popular options like Circle, WordPress, Thinkific, Podia, Teachable, and Mighty Networks
• How to balance community-building with course delivery
• Considerations for scaling your creator business beyond content creation
• Strategies for maintaining consistency in your content creation efforts

Tools and platforms discussed:

• Circle
• WordPress (with plugins like BuddyBoss)
• Thinkific
• Podia
• Teachable
• Mighty Networks

Top 5 Takeaways:

1. Consider your primary focus (community vs. courses) when choosing a platform
2. Evaluate the customization options and ease of use for each platform
3. Think about long-term scalability and integration with other tools
4. Don't underestimate the power of consistency in content creation
5. Be cautious when scaling your business into physical products or merchandise

Featured Creator: Seth Godin

Colin and Jacob discuss Seth Godin's impressive blogging streak of over 7,000 daily posts since 2002. They highlight how this consistency has helped Seth develop his thoughts, gain perspective, and build a dedicated following. Key takeaways from Seth's approach:

• Commit to a daily practice and stick to it
• Focus on the act of creation rather than perfection
• Use consistent content creation as a tool for personal growth and audience building

Try This Workflow: Personalized Email Marketing

Colin shares their new approach to email marketing, which you can adapt for your own creator business:

1. Create an evergreen email sequence for new subscribers
2. Tailor content based on the subscriber's interests and level
3. Send two emails per week: one personalized and one automated digest
4. Keep automated digests brief and focused on recent content
5. Test and iterate based on open rates and click-through rates

Additional Resources:

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield
• Upwork - for finding freelancers and outsourcing tasks
• ConvertKit - email marketing platform

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Struggling to turn your creative ideas into profitable ventures? Discover how Justin Moore transformed his hobby into a multi-million dollar business through sponsorships!

Colin Gray sits down with Justin Moore, the Creator Wizard, to explore the world of content monetization, focusing on sponsorships and brand deals. Justin shares his journey from a hobby creator to a sponsorship expert who has generated $4.5 million in sponsorship revenue over the last decade.

What You'll Learn

• How to leverage sponsorships at any stage of your creator journey
• Strategies for collecting and using powerful testimonials
• Tips for personalizing your email marketing for maximum impact
• The importance of audience-first approaches in content creation and monetization
• Insights on professional video setups for creators

Tools Discussed

• Help This Book: For gathering feedback on writing projects
• Senja: A versatile testimonial management tool
• Passionfroot: A platform for managing sponsorship deals

Top 5 Takeaways

1. Adapt your sponsorship pitch based on your audience size and influence level
2. Use testimonials strategically in your marketing and sales processes
3. Segment your email list to provide personalized content and offers
4. Consider your audience's needs when balancing sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and your own products
5. Invest in a professional video setup to enhance your credibility with potential sponsors

The Sponsorship Continuum

Justin introduces his "Sponsorship Continuum" concept, a framework for creators to monetize their skills at any stage of their journey:

1. Early Stage: Focus on offering content creation services to brands. Use your platform as a portfolio to demonstrate your skills.
2. Growing Stage: Combine content creation services with native advertising on your platforms as your audience grows.
3. Established Stage: Leverage your large audience to offer significant reach and impact for brands through your platforms.

This continuum allows creators to start monetizing early and adapt their offerings as their influence grows.

Creator Spotlight: Jay Clouse

Justin highlights Jay Clouse, founder of Creator Science, as his creator of the week. He admires Jay's commitment to transparency, sharing both successes and failures in his creator journey, and his persistence in building his business over seven years before seeing significant traction.

Additional Resources

• Creator Wizard Newsletter
• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• Creator Science Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

In this episode of The Creator Toolbox, we kick things off with Jacob's viral Northern Lights photography story. He shares how his stunning images went a bit loopy online and how he used Shopify to capitalise on print-on-demand sales. 

Colin then breaks down his current video lighting setup, discussing the best ways to use softboxes, LED panels, and smart lights like Philips Hue to create professionally lit backgrounds and achieve a high-quality video feel.

We then get into the barbell strategy for video content creation, where we either go all-in with highly-produced content or keep it rough and ready to deliver quick, relevant videos. 

This episode is perfect for podcasters and content creators who want practical advice on streamlining production, enhancing video aesthetics, and avoiding burnout. 

We also highlight a Creator of the Week, David Larbi, and his podcast, "Mindful Moments," as a great example for solo podcasters looking to build a deep connection with their audience.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro

03:00 – Going Viral

07:45 – Monetizing Creative Work

12:00 – Professional Video Lighting

20:30 – Optimising Video Backgrounds

25:00 – Creator of the Week

29:50 – Barbell Content Strategy

35:30 – Boosting Productivity

45:00 – Creative Energy Management

47:00 – Outro and Call to Action

In this special episode of The Creator Toolbox, we dive into the craft of producing highly polished, montage or documentary content. That means one or more episodes with narration, clips from multiple interviews, music and FX, all aimed at creating a way-above-average listening and viewing experience.

We'll share our experience in creating a podcast series in this way, but it applies to multi-interview YouTube episodes just as well.

We cover everything from setting up interviews with expert podcasters to editing multiple voices into a cohesive narrative, unpacking the strategies behind our latest (20th!) season of PodCraft.

We’ll walk you through how we source high-quality guests, create seamless transitions with narration, and blend in the perfect soundtrack. Whether you’re a podcaster, YouTuber, or content creator, these tips will help you elevate your production skills and streamline your workflow.

Join us as we show you how to turn a series of interviews into a compelling season of audio storytelling.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction and Welcome

02:10: Switching the Format for Season 20 of PodCraft

05:05: Finding the Right Podcast Guests

09:12: Structuring the Interviews

14:05: Scheduling and Recording the Interviews

17:30: Editing and Organizing the Content

24:00: Narration and Music Integration

30:15: Creating Blog Posts for Episodes

34:12: Publishing and Promoting the Season

38:00: Closing Thoughts and Final Tips

Is your creative mind bursting with ideas but struggling to turn them into consistent content? Discover how to organize your thoughts, streamline your workflow, and sustainably grow your creator business!

Join Colin Gray, Jacob Anderson, and special guest Ian Anderson Gray as they dive deep into productivity systems, community building, and leveraging AI to supercharge your content creation process.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to use tools like Notion and the PARA method to organize your creative ideas
• Strategies for consistent content creation from successful creators
• The power of community in supporting your creator journey
• Ways to leverage AI for enhanced productivity and learning
• Tips for balancing creativity with organization

Tools discussed:

• Notion: For organizing tasks, projects, and information
• The PARA method: A system for personal knowledge management
• Time blocking and weekly planning techniques
• ChatGPT and other AI tools for content creation and learning

Featured creators:

• Tiago Forte: Known for his "Building a Second Brain" methodology
• Mark Schaefer: Creator of the RISE community
• Rob Walling: Host of the "Startups for the Rest of Us" podcast

Try this workflow:

Implement a weekly planning session using time blocking:

1. Choose a consistent day and time each week for planning (e.g., Sunday evening or Monday morning)
2. Review your upcoming week and identify your top priorities
3. Use a tool like Google Calendar or Notion to block out time for specific types of work (e.g., content creation, admin tasks, community engagement)
4. Assign specific tasks to each time block, ensuring your most important work gets scheduled
5. Leave some flexibility for unexpected tasks or creative inspiration
6. At the end of each week, review your progress and adjust your system as needed

Resources:

• Tiago Forte's Building a Second Brain
• Mark Schaefer's RISE Community
• Rob Walling's Startups for the Rest of Us Podcast
• Notion
• The PARA Method explained
• Cal Newport's Deep Work

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Rob Lawrence joins us to share his unique perspective on podcasting for coaches, drawing from his experience as both a certified coach and professional podcast producer. In this value-packed episode, we explore everything from overcoming mental blocks to practical setup advice for coaches looking to expand their reach through podcasting.

Episode Highlights:

• Why podcasting works particularly well for coaches
• How to start "scrappy" and improve over time
• The real value of podcasting (hint: it's not just download numbers)
• Practical tools and tech recommendations for beginners
• When and how to work with a professional producer
• Smart ways to think about video vs audio content

Key Takeaways for Coaches:

• Start Simple, Think BigDon't let perfectionism hold you back
• Focus on your message, not just the technical details
• Consider starting with just your phone or laptop
• Focus on Connection Over PerfectionPodcast audiences value authenticity
• Your expertise matters more than production quality
• Build genuine relationships through conversations
• The Long Game WinsConsistency matters more than polish
• Network effects compound over time
• Your content becomes a valuable legacy

👉 Coach looking for a producer? Check out Rob's website: https://www.roblawrence.co/

👉 Looking for a DIY option that makes it easy? Alitu is for you! https://alitu.com, use discount code CREATORTOOLBOX for 50% of your first month.

In this episode, Colin and Jacob dig into two powerful tools for creators: LinkedIn and AI deep research capabilities. Colin shares his recent LinkedIn strategy, revealing how daily posting has drastically improved his engagement and impressions, and what makes up those daily posts. He explores effective content types like cheat sheets, carousels, video formats, and personal stories that perform well on the platform. Colin also highlights successful creators like Chris Donnelly, Ann Handley, and Tom Hunt who are having a bunch of success on LinkedIn with their distinct approaches.

In the second half, Jacob explores his experience with ChatGPT's Deep Research feature, explaining how it revolutionized his content creation process for a viral blog post about vibe coding, providing valuable comparative analysis and SEO gap identification that helped his article reach the front page of Hacker News.

Key Takeaways:

🟢 Consistency is crucial for LinkedIn success - Colin saw his average post impressions jump from 100-200 to 400-500 by posting daily, with his newsletter content reaching 1,000+ impressions.

🟢 "Cheat sheets" with dense, valuable information perform exceptionally well on LinkedIn - these text-heavy graphics with minimal design offer quick value and stand out in feeds.

🟢 When creating plain text posts on LinkedIn, being opinionated and authentic performs better than overly polished content - controversial hooks and personal stories drive engagement.

🟢 ChatGPT's Deep Research feature (available with Pro subscription) acts like a dedicated research assistant, providing comprehensive competitive analysis and identifying content gaps.

🟢 When using AI for research, being specific with your requests (like asking for first-person reviews rather than marketing copy) significantly improves the quality and usefulness of the results.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and episode overview

04:44 Colin's LinkedIn growth strategy and results

08:06 Analyzing effective LinkedIn content types

13:34 LinkedIn cheat sheets and why they work

20:40 Carousel posts and their engagement power

24:13 Authentic text posts vs. polished content

26:14 Storytelling techniques from top LinkedIn creators

32:28 LinkedIn commenting strategies for algorithm growth

36:34 Optimizing your LinkedIn profile features

40:35 Jacob introduces ChatGPT's Deep Research tool

45:10 How Deep Research transformed content creation

49:45 SEO gap analysis and competitive advantages

54:38 Practical applications for content improvement

57:01 Outro

Curious about building a successful creator business? Join us as we explore the tools, techniques, and mindsets that help content creators thrive in today's digital landscape.

In this inaugural episode, Colin Gray (Founder of The Podcast Host and Alitu) and Jacob Anderson (Head of Growth) dive into their experiences running creator businesses and discuss the challenges they face along the way.

What you'll learn:

• Insights on cutting-edge tools for content creation
• Strategies for improving productivity and consistency
• Business models that work for successful creators
• Real-world examples of creators who are doing things differently

Tools discussed:

• iPhone 15 Pro: Its impressive video capabilities and how it's being used professionally
• Filmora: A user-friendly video editing software alternative to Adobe Premiere
• DALL-E 3: The latest AI image generation tool integrated into ChatGPT
• Rode Wireless Go: A versatile wireless microphone system for creators

Featured creators:

• Bald and Bankrupt: A YouTube creator with 4 million subscribers who proves that raw, unedited content can be incredibly engaging when you're doing something truly interesting.
• Ali Abdaal: A productivity expert and ex-doctor who has built a thriving creator business through strategic info products and coaching programs.

Try this workflow:

Regularly review and refresh your cornerstone content:

1. Identify your top-performing or most important pieces of content
2. Schedule time to update them with fresh information, improved structure, or new insights
3. Consider how you can repurpose or expand on this content across different platforms

Resources:

• Filmora video editing software
• Rode Wireless Go
• Bald and Bankrupt YouTube channel
• Ali Abdaal YouTube channel
• The Podcast Host
• Alitu podcast maker app

We're just getting started with this podcast, and we'd love to hear your thoughts! What topics would you like us to cover? What challenges are you facing as a creator? Let us know by reaching out to Colin on Twitter @thepodcasthost or find him on LinkedIn (search for "Colin Gray podcast").

• Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. We're figuring this out together, and we can't wait to share more with you in future episodes!

Are you struggling to make sense of your digital marketing efforts? Discover how to harness the power of analytics and get clarity on what's actually helping you grow your creator business!

In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson sit down with Amanda Webb, a digital marketing ROI and analytics mentor. Amanda shares her wealth of knowledge on essential tools and strategies for content creators to improve their productivity, measure their marketing efforts, and grow their online presence.

What you'll learn:

This episode is packed with valuable information for creators looking to level up their analytics game. You'll discover:

• Productivity tools to streamline your workflow
• Google Analytics tips and tricks for better insights
• Content creation strategies for various platforms
• How to use analytics to improve your marketing ROI
• Inspiring examples of creators and businesses crushing it with innovative marketing

Tools discussed:

• Toggl: Time tracking tool for improved productivity
• Apple Fitness: For establishing a productive morning routine
• Apple Notes: Versatile tool for organizing ideas and projects
• Google Analytics 4: In-depth discussion on its features and benefits
• Microsoft Clarity: Heat mapping tool for website optimization
• Analytics Debugger: Chrome extension for troubleshooting analytics setups
• Tag Assistant Companion: Tool for debugging Google Analytics and Tag Manager
• Tag Explorer: Chrome extension for checking cookie compliance

Featured creators:

1. Woodstock Hotel (Ireland): A family-owned hotel creating engaging, humorous content on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
2. Dana DiTomaso: Analytics expert sharing in-depth knowledge about Google Analytics and Tag Manager through her live show and podcast appearances.
3. Sean Casey Fitness: A no-nonsense fitness instructor on Instagram, providing relatable and entertaining content about health and nutrition.

Try this workflow: Weekly planning and time blocking

Amanda shared her productivity hack using Toggl:

1. Schedule a weekly planning session
2. Use Toggl to track your time spent on various tasks
3. Analyze your time usage and identify areas of procrastination
4. Adjust your schedule to maximize productive hours
5. Set a daily work goal (e.g., 7 productive hours) and stick to it

Resources:

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• Woodstock Hotel on Instagram
• Dana DiTomaso on LinkedIn
• Sean Casey Fitness on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Visit The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Ever wonder how some creators seem to do it all? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Arielle Nissenblatt, a powerhouse creator who manages to produce an impressive amount of content while holding down a full-time job in tech.

Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson sit down with Arielle to uncover her secrets, discussing everything from productivity tools to content creation strategies. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to help you level up your game.

What you'll learn:

• How Arielle manages multiple content streams, including newsletters, podcasts, and social media
• The power of simple productivity tools and why sometimes "no system" can be a system
• Strategies for monetizing your content without burning out
• The importance of celebrating small wins and keeping your audience engaged
• Insights into emerging platforms like Threads and their potential for creators

Tools discussed:

• Google Gemini: An AI tool for more natural, conversational content creation
• Duckbill: A personal assistant service that combines AI and human support
• Consensus: An AI-powered research tool for finding credible information quickly
• Passionfruit: A platform for streamlining newsletter ad sales
• Simple productivity hacks: Using reminders, marking emails as unread, and more

Featured creator:

Arielle spotlights "The Nightingale of Iran," a podcast by sisters Danielle and Galit Dardashti. She breaks down their successful launch strategy, emphasizing the importance of:

• High-quality production values
• Leveraging personal connections and expertise
• Aggressive press outreach and self-promotion
• Celebrating every milestone, no matter how small

Try this workflow:

Inspired by Arielle's approach, consider implementing these steps in your own creator journey:

1. Use simple tools like phone reminders and "mark as unread" features to keep track of tasks
2. Don't be afraid to outsource tasks that eat up your time (consider services like Duckbill)
3. Consistently share your work and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they seem
4. Explore new platforms (like Threads) to connect with your audience in fresh ways
5. Look for opportunities to monetize your content without compromising your full-time commitments

Resources:

• Earbuds Podcast Collective
• Arielle on Threads: @arielle_thisandthat
• Arielle on Twitter: @AriThisAndThat
• The Nightingale of Iran podcast
• Passionfruit - for streamlining newsletter ad sales
• The Productivity Show podcast

Remember, the key to success as a creator isn't always about having the perfect system—it's about finding what works for you and consistently putting in the effort. As Arielle demonstrates, with the right tools and mindset, you can achieve incredible things, even with a busy schedule.

Want to dive deeper into the world of content creation? Subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights, tools, and strategies to help you thrive as a creator.