Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth and Trending News

By Julie Lokun and Dominick DomaskySociety & Culture Documentary Business Entrepreneurship News Business News

Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth and Trending News episodes

June 19From a Cult to An Author: How Entrepreneurs Use Storytelling to Get on Stages and Get Paid
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What if the story you've been hiding is actually the thing that builds your authority, fills your calendar, and grows your business?
On this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun, JD (founder of Cre8tive Con) and Dominick Domasky (CEO of Media Champs Publishing, COO of Cre8tive Con) sit down with Porsche Mysticque Steele — award-winning book coach, TEDx speaker, and independent publishing strategist — for a conversation that is equal parts raw and tactical.
Porsche doesn't just teach entrepreneurs how to write books. She lived the proof. Books saved her life. Now she helps founders, executives, coaches, and speakers across Chicago and the United States turn their lived experience into published authority and paid stages.
Connect with Porsche Mysticque Steele → porschesteele.com
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Why your personal story is your most underleveraged business asset — and how to architect it for maximum impact

How publishing a book positions entrepreneurs as the go-to expert in crowded, competitive markets

The concept of story architecture — the framework Porsche uses to shape both books and keynote talks that convert

How the process of writing a book transforms the author before the first copy is ever sold

The real reason strategic networking (not transactional pitching) is what actually lands speaking opportunities

How to turn pain into profit — ethically, powerfully, and without exploiting your own story

Why books remain one of the highest-ROI credibility tools for business owners and thought leaders
About the Guest:
Porsche Mysticque Steele is an award-winning book coach, TEDx speaker, and independent publishing expert who works with entrepreneurs, speakers, and executives to transform personal stories into published books, keynote platforms, and lasting authority. She works with clients in Chicago and nationwide.
porschesteele.com
About The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast:
Hosted by Julie Lokun, JD and Dominick Domasky, The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is built for founders, creatives, and business leaders who are ready to amplify their voice, build their brand, and stop playing small. This podcast is powered by the team behind Cre8tive Con — a traveling entrepreneurship conference designed to connect and elevate the next generation of bold business owners.
FAQs
What is The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is hosted by Julie Lokun, JD (julielokunconsulting.com | bigbetterbrand.com) and Dominick Domasky (motivationchamps.com) — a podcast built for founders, creatives, and business leaders ready to amplify their voice, build authority, and grow a brand that actually means something. Powered by the Cre8tive Con community.
Who hosts The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Julie Lokun, JD is a communications strategist, attorney, entrepreneur, and founder of Cre8tive Con. Learn more at julielokunconsulting.com and bigbetterbrand.com. Dominick Domasky is CEO of Motivation Champs and a publisher and brand strategist — connect with him at motivationchamps.com. Together they bring a powerhouse blend of legal, media, and publishing expertise to every episode.
What will entrepreneurs learn from this episode?
Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky guide a conversation that delivers real frameworks — how to leverage storytelling and book publishing to build credibility, land speaking engagements, and grow a personal brand that opens doors in competitive markets.
Why should entrepreneurs consider writing a book?
As Dominick Domasky knows firsthand from the publishing world, a book establishes you as the definitive expert in your field, differentiates you in crowded markets, and attracts speaking stages, media features, and high-value clients that other marketing strategies simply can't match.
How does Cre8tive Con support entrepreneurs?
Cre8tive Con, co-founded by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky, is a traveling entrepreneurship conference that amplifies founder voices, elevates bold ideas, and creates meaningful connections between business leaders, creatives, and industry experts — live and in person.
What is story architecture and how does it apply to entrepreneurs in Chicago?
Story architecture is a strategic approach to shaping personal experiences into compelling narratives that support branding, speaking, and publishing. Chicago entrepreneurs use story architecture to create books and talks that resonate locally and nationally.
How can Chicago entrepreneurs get booked on speaking stages?
Chicago entrepreneurs can get booked on stages by combining a clear message, a published book, and strong relationships within entrepreneurial communities, conferences, and events like Cre8tive Con.
Is The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast relevant beyond Chicago?
Yes. While hosted by a Chicago-based team, The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast reaches entrepreneurs, authors, and speakers nationwide and internationally through major podcast platforms.
How can business owners connect with Porsche Mysticque Steele after this episode?
Business owners can connect with Porsche Mysticque Steele through the links provided in the episode show notes to explore book coaching, publishing strategy, and speaking development services.
Who should listen to this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
This episode is ideal for entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants, authors, and speakers—especially those in Chicago—who want to turn their story into a credibility-building business asset.
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com

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26 min
June 15Your Trauma Is Your Trademark: How Wendy Babcock Turned Pain Into a Profitable Speaking Business
What if the thing you've spent your life hiding is actually the thing that builds your empire?
In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun and Dom Domasky sit down with Wendy Babcock — TEDx speaker, songwriter, visibility strategist, and founder/CEO of When Stories, a storytelling and visibility platform helping women turn their defining moments into talks, books, podcasts, and media assets.
This conversation goes way beyond "share your story." Wendy breaks down the real business mechanics behind turning vulnerability into authority — including the three specific assets (a book, a TEDx talk, and podcast appearances) that shifted her own business and started attracting speaking opportunities to her instead of the other way around.
The conversation also dives deep into a topic every entrepreneur and speaker needs to understand right now: GEO and AEO — how AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini are increasingly used by event planners to find and vet speakers, and what kind of content actually gets indexed by AI versus what just looks good on Instagram.
Plus: a hilarious (and brutally honest) round of "Jules Rules" covering the worst things you can possibly do on a stage, and Wendy's signature framework for building a talk that actually moves an audience — including her concept of neuro-coupling and the difference between speaking from "the wound" versus "the scar."
If you've ever felt like your story was too messy, too painful, or not "polished" enough to build a business around — this episode is your sign.
Meet Your Guest: Wendy Babcock
Wendy Babcock is the founder and CEO of When Stories, a storytelling and visibility platform that helps women transform their defining life moments into TEDx-style talks, books, podcasts, and media assets. She's a TEDx speaker, songwriter, and visibility strategist with nearly a decade of professional speaking experience, and she's also a past featured speaker at Cre8tive Con OTR.
Connect with Wendy:
When Stories: whenstories.com

Personal site: wendybabcock.com
In This Episode
Intro — Why the thing you're hiding might be the thing the world needs

Meet Wendy Babcock — From TEDx speaker to founder of When Stories

Why vulnerability builds connection — "When you share the real, real stuff... it connects you on a whole different level"

The origin story of When Stories — How one coaching question — "Tell me a moment when everything changed" — became a business

The 3 Authority Assets — Why a book, a TEDx talk, and podcast appearances changed everything for Wendy's business

Egocentric vs. Authority-Centric Visibility — The two types of visibility, and which one actually builds a business

GEO & AEO Explained — How AI search (ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Gemini) is changing how speakers get discovered and booked

Reels, Content & John Lee — Why "more content" isn't always the right advice, and what event planners actually want to see now

Jules Rules — The worst things you can do on stage (slap somebody, admit you're nervous, pitch from the jump, recite a memorized speech, run over time)

Wendy's Storytelling Framework — Leading from the scar (not the wound), the "drop them into a moment" technique, and neuro-coupling

Final Takeaway — Healing becomes leadership: how your story becomes your service
Quotable Moments
"Your story is not your weakness — it's your authority, and it can be your asset."
"AI doesn't care about egocentric. It's looking for content that serves an audience, that teaches something, that shows your expertise."
"Event planners are going to Claude and ChatGPT saying, 'I need a speaker who solves this problem for my audience,' and seeing what comes up."
"There's a difference between leading from the wound and leading from the scar. When you lead from the wound, you're still bleeding. When you lead from the scar, healing becomes leadership."
"Drop them into a moment. Don't narrate — describe."
5 Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs & Speakers
Your story isn't a liability — it's an asset. The most painful chapter of your life can become the foundation of your authority, your brand, and your revenue.

Build your 3 authority assets. A book, a TEDx (or TEDx-style) talk, and podcast appearances are the assets that actually move the needle on bookings and credibility.

Know the difference between egocentric and authority-centric visibility. "Look at me" content is flashy but slow to convert. Content that teaches and demonstrates expertise is what AI search engines — and event planners — are now prioritizing.

GEO and AEO are not optional anymore. If your content (articles, transcripts, podcast appearances) isn't being indexed by AI tools, you may not show up when someone asks ChatGPT or Claude for a recommendation in your space.

Master the "drop them into a moment" technique. Skip the preamble. Start your story mid-scene, with sensory detail, so your audience experiences neuro-coupling — feeling like they're living the moment with you.
Resources & Links Mentioned
When Stories (Wendy's company): whenstories.com

Wendy Babcock (personal site): wendybabcock.com

Cre8tive Con OTR — the conference where Julie & Dom discovered Wendy as a speaker
Keep Creating — Connect With Us
Loved this episode? Don't just listen — go do something with it. Your story has been sitting on the shelf long enough.
Want help turning your story into your brand strategy? That's exactly the kind of work Julie does — head to julielokunconsulting.com to learn more.

Need a daily dose of motivation to keep going while you build? Get your fix at motivationchamps.com.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with the entrepreneur in your life who's been hiding their story.
Until next time — keep creating.
JOIN US AT CRE8TIVE CON! www.cre8tivecon.com
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com

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31 min
June 0820 Proven Ways to Get Your Message Out to the World : Marketing Tips for Entrepreneurs & Authors
Are you struggling to get your book, product, or business in front of the right people? In this power-packed solo episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, host and publisher Dominick Domasky steps in while Julie is out on assignment to deliver one of the most actionable marketing episodes yet.
Whether you're an author, small business owner, entrepreneur, or content creator, Dominick breaks down more than 20 real-world strategies to help you expand your reach, grow your audience, and convert connections into customers — without waiting for someone else to do it for you.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Why networking events are about connections, not closes — and how to work a room the right way

How to land speaking opportunities at Rotary Clubs, Kiwanis, chambers of commerce, and retirement groups

The power of being your own hype man (and why no marketing firm can replace your authentic voice)

How consignment shops, boutique hotels, and local gift shops can become unexpected sales channels

Why podcast tours are one of the most underutilized growth tools for entrepreneurs and authors

The social media engagement trap — and what you should be doing instead

How Amazon book reviews directly impact your discoverability (the magic numbers: 50 and 100)

How to throw a launch party that creates buzz and builds community

The press release strategy that works for both local and national exposure

How to tap into book clubs, mommy influencers, and business event speakers series

TED Talks, university speaking, and how to build a global platform

The power of unique partnerships — and the story of an author who sold 400,000 books through college students

How to create your own stage with vlogs, reels, and social audio
Dom's Rules (Today's "Jules Rules" Replacement):
Don't wait until 3 days before launch to start talking about your product

Don't make it all about you — vanity is not a marketing strategy

Stop giving the same canned speech — tailor your message to every room
Key Takeaway:
"Your story, your message, your business, your brand, your service can help people — to not share it with the world is actually a disservice." — Dominick Domasky
Resources & Topics Mentioned:
Networking events and local business groups
Rotary Clubs, Kiwanis, chambers of commerce
Consignment shops and local retail partnerships
Amazon book review strategy
Podcast guesting / podcast tours
Press releases (local and national)
TED Talks and Blue Talks
University speaking engagements
Social media content creation (reels, vlogs, social audio)
Launch party strategies
Connect with Dominick Domasky:
Motivation Champs | Creative Entrepreneur Podcast
www.motivationchamps.com
www.cre8tivecon.com
Enjoyed this episode?
Rate, review, and subscribe to the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — and share it with a fellow entrepreneur who needs to hear this message. Don't keep it to yourself!
Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth, Strategy and Monetization - Podcast - Apple Podcasts
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com

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16 min
June 05Leadership Lessons from a Navy Rear Admiral: How Military Discipline and White House Experience Help Entrepreneurs Build Elite Teams
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What does it take to lead 16,000 people — and what can that teach entrepreneurs?
In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur, hosts Dom Domasky and Julie Lokun sit down with Admiral Garry Hall — a decorated Rear Admiral who commanded 27 ships, advised the President of the United States, and spent decades at the highest levels of national leadership. The result is one of the most actionable leadership conversations you'll hear all year.
Whether you're scaling a startup, managing your first team, or searching for your own leadership identity, Admiral Hall's hard-won lessons from naval aviation and the White House translate directly to entrepreneurship — and to life.
What you'll learn in this episode
The difference between management and leadership — and why most business owners confuse the two

How to lead yourself first — the mental, physical, and moral discipline that separates good leaders from great ones

The power of mentorship — the bold ask Admiral Hall made early in his career that changed everything, and how entrepreneurs can do the same

Why every business needs a "This Is Who We Are" document — a 1–3 page compass that guides every decision your team makes

How to build high-performance teams — lessons from commanding 16,000 sailors across 27 ships on morale, readiness, and accountability

How to navigate failure and setbacks — owning mistakes and building resilience without losing forward momentum

Learning from extraordinary leaders — why reading biographies and studying great figures is a leadership practice, not just a hobby
Fan-favorite moments in this episode
Julie earns her call sign "Awesome Actual" — and learns what Admiral Hall means when he uses the word "awesome" as a title of respect. Dom and Julie also put the Admiral through a round of Presidential Superlatives: best hair, best suits, and which president would make the greatest mentor. The Admiral's answers — including reflections on Ronald Reagan and Dwight Eisenhower — are as illuminating as they are entertaining.
About Admiral Garry Hall
Admiral Garry Hall is a retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral, White House advisor, and the author of Navigating Leadership: Making a Pact with Excellence. He is also the host of the Navigating Life podcast, where he explores character, purpose, and leadership through conversation.
Key takeaway
Leadership begins with self-leadership. When you examine your behavior — mentally, physically, and morally — you become capable of leading teams and businesses with clarity and integrity. Humility, calmness under pressure, and commitment to excellence are the traits that distinguish effective leaders from average ones.
Resources mentioned
Navigating Life Podcast — Apple Podcasts

Navigating Leadership: Making a Pact with Excellence — Amazon

The Creative Entrepreneur — Dom Domasky & Julie Lokun
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
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29 min
June 01 Advising Oprah, Tyson, and the Obamas: Here's How Richard Dolan Earns Trust at the Highest Level
What does it really take to earn a seat in the rooms most people never enter? Richard Dolan — strategist, confidant, and trusted advisor known as the Legacy Man — has spent decades building genuine relationships with the world's most powerful and influential people, including the Obamas, Oprah, Justin Trudeau, Mike Tyson, Bono, Brad Pitt, Lewis Hamilton, and Drake. In this episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Richard sits down with hosts Dominick Domasky and Julie Lokun to unpack exactly how he did it — and how you can too.
What you'll learn in this episode: • Why proximity is power — and how Richard used high-profile events to build relationships before social media existed • The difference between money, wealth, and worth — and which one actually gives you freedom • Why most people search for self-worth when they should be leading with something of worth • The real definition of legacy: it's not what you leave, it's how you live, love, lead, and laugh • What Richard's five-year-old son taught him that no mentor ever could • The "hand that gives, gathers" approach to relationship-building with athletes, celebrities, and world leaders • How to walk into any room — even one full of icons — and belong there • The Ryan Reynolds story: a jaw-dropping lesson in what NOT to do when meeting your heroes • Why meeting celebrities can disappoint you — and how to protect yourself from that emotional trap • What separates Richard's upcoming book, The Legacy Man, from every other success memoir
Key quotes from this episode: "Legacy isn't about what you leave. It's shaped by how you lived, how you loved, how you've led, and how you've laughed." "Rather than worrying about self-worth, I'd rather just present something of worth." "Everything you're seeking is seeking you." "Proximity is power."
About Richard Dolan: Richard Dolan is a speaker, strategist, and author of the forthcoming book The Legacy Man. He collaborates with the Napoleon Hill Foundation alongside David Meltzer and has advised some of the most recognized names in entertainment, sports, politics, and business. Learn more at richarddolan.com.
Connect with Richard Dolan: Instagram: @thericharddolan Website: richarddolan.com
Connect with the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast: Website: creativeentrepreneur.com Instagram: @creativeentrepreneurpodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube
If this episode moved you, please leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and share it with one entrepreneur in your life who needs to hear it. Your reviews help us reach more creative life forces around the world.
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#RichardDolan #LegacyMan #ProximityIsPower #CreativeEntrepreneurPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Mindset #Legacy #PersonalDevelopment #BusinessPodcast #SuccessStories
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44 min
May 2540 Years of Brand Secrets: The Message Master Glenn Rudin Reveals Why Your Message Is Killing Your Business
️ JOIN US LIVE — Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road) | Boston | July 13th!
Don't miss Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky LIVE in Boston for Cre8tive Con OTR — On The Road! Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, get inspired, and take your business to the next level. Grab your ticket now: www.cre8tiveconotr.com
The Message Master Reveals Brand Secrets | Glenn Rudin on Messaging That Sells, Simplifies & Inspires
What makes a brand message unforgettable? This week, hosts Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with branding legend Glenn Rudin — known worldwide as The Message Master — to unpack the art and science of messaging that sticks. With over 40 years of experience helping entrepreneurs and Fortune 500 companies find their authentic voice, Glenn shares the strategies behind iconic brand taglines, the biggest messaging mistakes business owners make, and how to communicate with clarity, confidence, and consistency.
Whether you're a solopreneur just starting out or a seasoned entrepreneur ready to scale, this episode is your masterclass in brand messaging.
️ What You'll Learn in This Episode
Why "Just Do It," "Because You're Worth It," and "Finger Lickin' Good" still dominate decades later — and what you can steal from their psychology

The #1 messaging mistake entrepreneurs make (hint: they wing it every time)

How to craft an elevator pitch that doesn't put people to sleep in the first 15 seconds

The difference between sounding rehearsed vs. confident — and how to walk that line

Why consistency is the secret weapon most business owners ignore

What "Post and Ghost" is doing to your brand credibility

Glenn's signature framework: Clear. Concise. Consistent.

How personal branding works just like product branding — and what that means for you
About Glenn Rudin — The Message Master
Glenn Rudin has spent over 40 years in product development, branding, packaging, and copywriting for major corporations including Revlon and Shiseido. About a decade ago, he recognized that people could be branded just like products — and turned that insight into a thriving messaging consultancy. His nickname "The Message Master" was born on Clubhouse, where he became famous for crafting powerful brand messages on the spot for business owners worldwide.
Connect with Glenn: alwaysbeencreative.com Follow Glenn on LinkedIn: Search Glenn Rudin (8,000+ followers and growing)
Key Quotes from This Episode
"If you can't say something about your business in 10 or 12 words that gets somebody leaning in — you need to go back to the drawing board." — Glenn Rudin
"Show up with intentionality. Not to sell somebody, but so that somebody gets the sense that sounds kind of interesting — tell me more." — Glenn Rudin
"Post and Ghost is the last thing in the world you want to do. We can't know you if we don't see you." — Glenn Rudin
"Know your audience. If you don't know your avatar, you're going to miss the target every single time." — Julie Lokun
We're Coming to BOSTON — July 13th!
Join Julie Lokun, Dominick Domasky, and the entire Cre8tive Con community LIVE in Boston for Cre8tive Con OTR — On The Road! This is your chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside fellow creative entrepreneurs in person. Secure your spot before it sells out: www.cre8tiveconotr.com
️ Tools & Resources Mentioned
KEAP CRM — The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast's favorite CRM for managing client relationships, automating follow-ups, and growing your business with less chaos. www.keap.com/cre8tive
Connect With Us
Website: www.cre8tivecon.com ️ Events & Tickets: www.cre8tiveconotr.com ️ Hosted by Julie Lokun & Dominick Domasky
Enjoyed This Episode?
If this episode gave you a fresh perspective on your brand messaging, please rate, review, and subscribe to the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The more you know, the more your business will grow.
Until next time — keep creating.
Tags / Keywords: brand messaging, business branding, entrepreneur podcast, elevator pitch tips, marketing strategy, personal branding, Glenn Rudin, Message Master, Julie Lokun, Dominick Domasky, Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, how to market your business, brand consistency, messaging that sells, Cre8tive Con, Cre8tive Con OTR, Boston entrepreneur event, small business marketing, know like trust, tagline strategy
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com

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30 min
May 21Create Content that Converts With Julie Lokun
What separates content that gets scrolled past from content that drives real business results? In this episode of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, host sits down with Julie Lokun — author, attorney turned entrepreneur, and creator of The Mediacasters — to unpack the art and science of conversion-focused content.
Julie has helped thousands of entrepreneurs find their voice and monetize their message, and today she's pulling back the curtain on exactly how she does it.
In this episode, you'll learn:
The core reason most creative entrepreneurs' content fails to convert — and the mindset shift that changes everything

Julie's "message-to-market match" framework for creating content that speaks directly to buyer psychology

How to identify the emotional triggers that move your audience from curious to committed

The difference between content that builds an audience and content that builds a business

Practical techniques for repurposing one core idea across multiple platforms without losing its power to convert

Why storytelling is the highest-converting content format — and how to use your own story strategically
About Julie Lokun:
Julie Lokun is a media personality, published author, and founder of The Mediacasters. A former practicing attorney, Julie transitioned into entrepreneurship and has since built a thriving personal brand around helping entrepreneurs amplify their message and turn their expertise into income. She is the host of the Obsessed podcast and a passionate advocate for helping creative entrepreneurs claim their authority.
Resources mentioned:
Connect with Julie: [email protected]

Julie on Instagram: @julielokun

The Mediacasters community
Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share it with a fellow creative entrepreneur who needs to hear this message.
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
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11 min
May 18 Why Publishing Your Book Is Just the Beginning — with BookThinkers CEO Nick Hutchison
Everyone thinks the book will change everything. BookThinkers CEO Nick Hutchison says the real game starts after you hit publish — and most entrepreneurs are playing it completely wrong. In this episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky sit down with Nick to expose the #1 author marketing mistake, the AI disclosure crisis rocking the publishing world, why physical books beat audiobooks for brain development, and the SMART reading framework that can transform how you learn and take action. Reality is negotiable. This episode shows you how.
ABOUT NICK HUTCHISON:
Nick Hutchison
CEO & Founder, BookThinkers · Author of Rise of the Reader
Nick Hutchison went from self-described non-reader in college to building one of the most respected book marketing agencies in the world. As CEO of BookThinkers — a full-service agency with a team of 12 that serves hundreds of authors annually — Nick has helped thought leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs turn their books into movements. His own book, Rise of the Reader, outlines the reading and implementation system he used to completely redesign his life throughout his 20s. Nick is also a sought-after speaker, content creator, and what he calls a "book matchmaker" — connecting people to the exact book that will solve their current problem. He is a mentor to emerging authors and a relentless advocate for the idea that physical books, read with intention, remain one of the most powerful tools for personal transformation available.
bookthinkers.com@bookthinkersBookThinkers LIVE 2026Rise of the Reader
"Reality is negotiable. With enough hard work, the right mentors, and the right books — you can build your dream life."
— Nick Hutchison, quoting Tim Ferriss
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
Why most book launches fail and the simple fix authors refuse to use The #1 social media mistake 90% of authors make after publishing The AI-written book crisis: disclosure, lawsuits, and what is coming next How to build your rule of 5 influence circle as an author and entrepreneur Why physical books beat audiobooks for retention and brain development The SMART goal reading method that transforms how you implement what you learn Why Gen Z is the first generation with declining IQ and reading comprehension The books that changed Nick's life and how to find the one that will change yours Jules Rules: epic book launch branding fails including the Oprah disaster How to market yourself 24/7 as an author without feeling salesy
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Intro — why your book is never the thing
03:30 Nick's story: from non-reader to BookThinkers CEO
8:00 The #1 author marketing mistake and what to do instead
13:00 AI books, disclosure, and the Hachette Shy Girl scandal
19:00 Why Gen Z has declining IQ and the case for physical books 2
5:30 The rule of 5: who is really in your influence circle
31:00 Jules Rules: epic book launch branding fails
8:00 The books that changed Nick's life: Rich Dad,
44:00 The SMART goal reading strategy and the 80/20 action method
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
JULIE LOKUN, JD — Media Strategist, Publicist, Author, Mom of Four
Julie Lokun is a media strategist, publicist, and attorney who has built brands from the ground up for entrepreneurs, authors, and executives. As co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast and founder of The Mediacasters, she specializes in helping visionaries turn their story into influence. She is fiercely passionate about authentic branding, the power of community, and making sure entrepreneurs stop hiding behind their ideas and start owning their stage.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julielokun
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julielokun
Website: https://www.cre8tivecontr.com
DOMINICK DOMASKY — Publisher, Author, Entrepreneur, Community Builder
Dominick Domasky is a publisher, author, and entrepreneur with over 25 years in sales and brand-building. As co-founder of Motivation Champs Publishing and co-host of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, he has helped hundreds of authors bring their books to life and helped them understand that the book is only the beginning. Dom brings grit, humor, and hard-won publishing wisdom to every conversation.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dominickdomasky
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominickdomasky
Website: https://www.motivationchamps.com
ABOUT OUR GUEST — NICK HUTCHISON
Nick Hutchison is the CEO and founder of BookThinkers, a full-service book marketing and promotion agency with a team of 12 that serves hundreds of authors annually. Nick built the agency after going from a self-described non-reader in college to becoming obsessed with personal development books and the way they could redesign a person's reality.
As the author of Rise of the Reader, Nick outlines the exact reading and implementation system he used to completely transform his life throughout his 20s. He is a sought-after speaker, content creator, and passionate book matchmaker — connecting people to the exact book that will solve their current problem.
Nick is a relentless advocate for physical book reading, authentic authorship, and the belief that reality is negotiable for anyone willing to put in the work.
Website: https://www.bookthinkers.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers BookThinkers LIVE 2026: https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2026 Rise of the Reader: Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold
Want a personal book recommendation from Nick? DM @bookthinkers on Instagram with the problem you are trying to solve right now and his team will match you with the perfect book.
BOOKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Rise of the Reader by Nick Hutchison:
Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
Limitless by Jim Kwik Unlimited
Memory by Kevin Horsley
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is Nick Hutchison and what is BookThinkers? Nick Hutchison is the CEO and founder of BookThinkers, a full-service book marketing agency with a team of 12 that serves hundreds of authors every year. He is also the author of Rise of the Reader. Visit bookthinkers.com or DM @bookthinkers on Instagram for a personal book recommendation.
What is the biggest mistake authors make after publishing? Not promoting consistently enough. Most authors post about their book two or three times at launch and then go silent. Nick argues that if your book genuinely helps people, not promoting it is actually selfish — you are keeping people in pain longer than necessary. Consistent value-driven content is the only sustainable book marketing strategy.
Is it okay to use AI to write a book? Nick shared that 83% of potential book buyers say they would want their money back if they discovered an author used AI without disclosure. His advice: use AI for brainstorming and refining your thinking, but never let it do the thinking for you, and always disclose. People want to buy from people.
Why does Nick prefer physical books over audiobooks? Between 60 and 80% of brain inputs are visual. When you listen to an audiobook while driving or exercising, that visual bandwidth is already occupied and you absorb far less. Physical books are an act of mono-tasking — one input, full focus, lengthened attention span.
What is the SMART goal reading method? Before reading any book, write a SMART goal on the inside cover. Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Written, and Time-bound. Then do an 80/20 analysis at the end to identify the highest-leverage actions to implement. Re-read your goal at the start of each reading session so your brain knows what to filter for.
What is Cre8tive Con? Cre8tive Con is an entrepreneur event hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky in Boston on July 13, 2026. Designed for creators, authors, entrepreneurs, and brand-builders who want to connect and grow in person. Get tickets at https://www.cre8tivecontr.com
What is BookThinkers LIVE 2026? BookThinkers LIVE 2026 is Nick Hutchison's flagship live event in Boston on July 11 and 12, 2026. Speakers include Jim Kwik, John Lee Dumas, Evan Carmichael, and more. Get tickets at https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2026
What books does Nick recommend for entrepreneurs? Rich Dad Poor Dad by Kiyosaki, The 4-Hour Workweek by Ferriss, Limitless by Jim Kwik, Unlimited Memory by Kevin Horsley, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, and his own Rise of the Reader. DM @bookthinkers on Instagram for a personalized recommendation.
LINKS AND RESOURCES
BookThinkers: https://www.bookthinkers.com
BookThinkers LIVE 2026 — Boston July 11 and 12, speakers include Jim Kwik, John Lee Dumas, Evan Carmichael and more: https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2026
Cre8tive Con — Boston July 13, 2026, hosted by Julie Lokun and Dominick Domasky: https://www.cre8tivecontr.com
Keap — Our favorite business automation tool: https://www.keap.com/cre8tive
Nick Hutchison on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers
Julie Lokun on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julielokun
Dominick Domasky on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dominickdomasky
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
40 min
May 11The $10 Millionaire: How "Venture Staking" is Disrupting Silicon Valley with Gerry Hays CEO of Doriot
Follow us on YOUTUBE! Cre8tive Con - YouTube @cre8tivecon
What if you could turn a $10 "ante" into a seat at the table for the next Amazon or Google? In this episode, Gerry Hays, CEO of Doriot, joins hosts Dominick Domasky and Julie Lokun to unveil a revolutionary new model called Venture Staking, which bridges the gap between community-driven philanthropy and high-stakes venture capital.
Gerry shares how Doriot is democratizing the "closed-door" world of Silicon Valley, allowing everyday people to seed the next big idea for the price of a cup of coffee. Whether you are a creator looking for non-equity funding or an aspiring investor looking to build a "wealth-cultivation" mindset, this conversation provides the blueprint for getting into the proximity of innovation.
Quick Links
Guest Website: www.doriot.com

Guest: Gerry Hays, JD (CEO of Doriot & Professor at the Kelley School of Business)

Host Info: Dominick Domasky & Julie Lokun

Event Mentioned: Cre8tive Con
Key Takeaways & "Jules Rules"
Venture Staking 101: Learn how a "give-first" grant model allows communities to support founders without immediately taking equity or debt.

The "Asymmetric Gap": Why watching a founder perform through weekly updates is the best due diligence you can do before investing larger sums.

Wealth Follows Innovation: Why being in proximity to new ideas is more important than having a massive bank account.

Red Flags: Why high-pressure closes and "deadlines" are often a sign to walk away.

The Power of Humans: Jerry’s #1 tip for what to invest in—don't just follow the tech; follow the human ingenuity and drive behind it.
Time-Stamped Highlights
[02:15] The Indiana Connection: How a Kelley School of Business professor became a "kindred spirit" to the show.

[05:40] The Winning Pitch: Gerry explains the concept of raising $100k from 3,000 supporters.

[09:12] The "Amazon Math": How $10 in 1993 could have changed your life today.

[14:30] Discoverers vs. Founders: How to get involved with Doriot as an investor or a creator.

[17:45] Inside Baseball: The Sam Altman/Stripe story and the power of small checks.

[21:10] Cultivating vs. Consuming: Shifting your mindset from "Get Rich Quick" to "Seed the Future."

[26:50] Jules Rules: Red flags to look for when someone asks for your money.

[30:15] The Chocolate Bar Chemist: A real-world example of why you should never bet against passion.
Suggested Episode Titles
The $10 Millionaire: How "Venture Staking" is Disrupting Silicon Valley

From Philanthropy to Profit: Jerry Hays on Democratizing Startup Investing

Why You Don’t Need an MBA to Invest Like a VC with Doriot’s Jerry Hays

The Wealth Mindset: Cultivating Your Future Through Community Grants

Venture Capital for the Rest of Us: A Masterclass with Jerry Hays
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Julie Lokun? Julie Lokun, JD, is a master brand strategist, author, and the founder of The Big Better Brand. Known for her "media-first" approach, she helps entrepreneurs and influencers scale their visibility through podcasting, public speaking, and strategic storytelling. As a co-host of the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, she brings a sharp legal mind and a creative eye to the world of business growth.
Learn more: www.bigbetterbrand.com

Who is Dom Domasky? Dom Domasky is an inspirational author, speaker, and the founder of Motivation Champs. After navigating the highs and lows of business ownership (including a very famous "lima bean" story), Dom dedicated his career to sharing stories of resilience. He specializes in helping individuals find their "inner champ" and turn failures into fuel for future success.
Learn more: www.motivationchamps.com

What is Cre8tive Con OTR? Cre8tive Con OTR (On The Road) is a high-energy, immersive networking and educational experience for entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional stuffy conferences, it focuses on real-world skills like the 30-second pitch, brand building, and community investment.
Join the Movement: Catch the next stop in Boston! Get tickets and info at www.cre8tiveconotr.com.

How do the hosts manage their business automation? To keep the podcast, conferences, and coaching businesses running smoothly, Julie and Dom rely on Keap. It is their favorite all-in-one automation tool for managing CRM, email marketing, and lead captures, allowing them to spend less time on admin and more time creating.
Special Offer: Check out their preferred setup at www.keap.com/cre8tive.
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
28 min
May 07Is College Worth It for Entrepreneurs in 2026? The Truth About Debt, Startups and Success
CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE TOOL THAT HAS BUILT OUR BUSINESS AND AUTOMATED OUR PIPELINES!
www.keap.com/cre8tive
Is College Worth It for Entrepreneurs? Debt, Startups, AI & The Future of Success
Should entrepreneurs go to college — or skip the degree and start building their dream business now?
In this compelling episode of The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast, hosts Julie Lokun, JD and Dominick Domasky tackle one of the most searched questions among aspiring business owners, creators, startup founders, freelancers, and Gen Z entrepreneurs:
“Is college worth it anymore?”
As artificial intelligence, self-education, online learning, and creator-driven businesses reshape the economy, the traditional college path is being challenged like never before. With over $1.7 trillion in student loan debt burdening Americans, many entrepreneurs are asking whether a four-year degree is still the smartest investment — or the biggest obstacle to financial freedom and innovation.
Inspired by Julie Lokun’s viral article, “Should I Go to College? Debt, Entrepreneurship & The Voices Who Challenged the Norm,” this episode explores the changing relationship between education, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity in 2026 and beyond.
Julie and Dominick discuss:
Whether college helps or hurts entrepreneurial success

Gary Vaynerchuk’s stance on higher education and student debt

Why many entrepreneurs are choosing self-education over traditional degrees

The rise of AI learning tools, online certifications, apprenticeships, and bootcamps

How branding, podcasting, content creation, and freelancing create modern career opportunities

When degrees still matter in industries like medicine, engineering, and law

Why risk tolerance and self-awareness are essential for entrepreneurial success
This episode is essential listening for:
Entrepreneurs

Startup founders

College students

Business owners

Creators and influencers

Freelancers

Coaches and consultants

Parents helping students choose a career path

Anyone questioning the future of higher education
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Why Student Loan Debt Impacts Entrepreneurship
Massive student debt can limit freedom, creativity, and the ability to take entrepreneurial risks. Julie and Dominick discuss how financial pressure often delays business ownership and innovation.
The Real ROI of a College Degree
Does a degree guarantee financial success anymore? This conversation examines whether traditional higher education still provides value in a rapidly changing digital economy.
Alternative Education Paths for Entrepreneurs
Discover how entrepreneurs are using:
AI learning tools

YouTube education

Online courses

Mentorship programs

Podcasts

Coding bootcamps

Apprenticeships
to build successful businesses without traditional degrees.
Entrepreneurship in the Creator Economy
Learn how modern entrepreneurs are building careers through:
Personal branding

Podcasting

Content marketing

Social media

Freelancing

Digital products

Online communities
When College Still Matters
While entrepreneurship often rewards execution over credentials, some professions still require formal education. Julie and Dominick discuss where degrees remain essential and where they may no longer be necessary.
Key Takeaways
Student loan debt can reduce entrepreneurial freedom and delay wealth creation.

A college degree does not guarantee career success or financial security.

Self-education and digital learning are reshaping modern entrepreneurship.

AI and technology are disrupting traditional education systems.

Successful entrepreneurs focus on execution, adaptability, branding, and innovation.

The future belongs to creators, problem-solvers, and lifelong learners.
Resources Mentioned
Julie Lokun’s article: Should I Go to College? Debt, Entrepreneurship & The Voices Who Challenged the Norm

Gary Vaynerchuk’s views on entrepreneurship and college

Alternative education pathways including online learning, mentorships, bootcamps, and AI-powered education
About The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast
The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast is a leading business and entrepreneurship podcast for creators, innovators, founders, coaches, and visionaries who want to build impactful brands and profitable businesses.
Hosted by Julie Lokun, founder of Cre8tive Con, the show features:
Entrepreneur interviews

Business growth strategies

Branding and PR insights

Marketing trends

Podcasting advice

Personal development for entrepreneurs

Real stories from business leaders and creators
Whether you are launching a startup, scaling a business, building a personal brand, or pivoting careers, this podcast delivers actionable insights to help you grow.
Subscribe to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast
Available on:
Apple Podcasts

Spotify

YouTube

Amazon Music

iHeartRadio
Subscribe for weekly episodes on entrepreneurship, branding, AI, marketing, creativity, and business growth.
Join Cre8tive Con Live
Ready to elevate your business, build meaningful connections, and learn from world-class entrepreneurs?
Join us live at Cre8tive Con:
Cre8tive Con
The premier conference for entrepreneurs, creators, speakers, podcasters, authors, and innovators looking to grow their influence and impact.
Interested in being a guest on the Creative Entrepreneur Podcast?
Reach out : www.creativeenrepreneurpod.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
21 min

About Creative Entrepreneur: A Podcast For Business Growth and Trending News

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast — a top-ranked show in Business News where entrepreneurship, creativity, media strategy, and pop culture collide. Whether you are building a business, growing a personal brand, launching a podcast, writing a book, or expanding your influence as a thought leader, this show was built for you.

We believe business doesn't have to be boring. The most successful entrepreneurs are always learning, adapting, and evolving — and that means mastering business strategy, branding, marketing, AI tools, podcasting, publishing, and public speaking, while staying locked in on the pop culture moments, entertainment headlines, and media trends shaping the marketplace right now.

Why? Because there is business behind everything. From viral moments and major brand moves to celebrity influence and cultural shifts, the biggest business lessons are playing out in real time. We break them down, make them actionable, and help you apply them to your brand and your bottom line.

Each episode delivers real conversations, expert guest interviews, and practical frameworks to help you grow revenue, build authority, and expand your reach in today's creator economy. No fluff. No filler. Just the strategies that actually move the needle.

What we cover: Business growth and monetization · Branding and authority building · Podcast and media strategy · Public speaking and visibility · AI and emerging tools · Publishing and thought leadership · Pop culture and business trends · Entrepreneurship and mindset · Marketing and content creation · Personal brand development

Most of all, we believe in connection, community, and building meaningful relationships. Entrepreneurship can feel isolating — but growth accelerates when you surround yourself with the right people, the right tools, and the right conversations. This show is designed to help you move faster, think bigger, and build smarter.

Whether you are a seasoned CEO, a rising entrepreneur, a content creator, or a thought leader ready to own your stage and scale your influence, The Creative Entrepreneur Podcast meets you where you are and challenges you to go further.

Ready for an incredible live experience? Join us at Cre8tive Con — the traveling conference where entrepreneurs, creators, and thought leaders come together to learn, connect, and grow. Visit www.cre8tivecon.com to find an event near you.

About the hosts:

Julie Lokun, JD — Business strategist, podcaster, speaker, and publicity expert. Founder of Dragonfly Effect and co-founder of Mediacasters, Julie helps entrepreneurs amplify their message, increase visibility, and build authority through media, publicity, and strategic brand positioning. Learn more at www.julielokunconsulting.com.

Dominick Domasky — Publisher, bestselling author, speaker, and founder of Motivation Champs (www.motivationchamps.com). Dom helps authors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders share powerful stories, build strong brands, and create lasting impact through publishing and media.

Together, Julie and Dom bring sharp insights, powerful guests, and unfiltered conversations to help creative entrepreneurs grow — in business, media, and beyond.

Join a live event: www.cre8tivecon.com

Podcast home: www.cre8tiveconpod.com

Inquiries: [email protected] | [email protected]