How do you react when you get a call, text, or email from a client or a potential client that has a last-minute urgent request? Do you drop everything you’re doing to help your client? Does it de-rail your plans and stress you out? This week on the Grow Your Video Business Podcast Ryan goes solo to break down this all too often occurrence in the video industry and gives some incredibly helpful insight on how to deal with the dreaded last-minute request. We all love getting new clients, but this episode will help you to understand that sometimes the answer needs to be no. Ryan shares the importance of having boundaries, the top 5 things to consider before jumping into a new project, the importance of building a community, getting clear on deadlines, budgeting, and much more!  Links          Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group Get the ASCEND Method Cheat Sheet Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram What’s your question for the podcast? Share a video or audio response!          Additional Links: Check out the full show notes page If you haven't already, we'd love it if you would take 1 minute to leave us a review on iTunes!

286. Dealing With Last-Minute Client Requests

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In this insightful episode, we dive into the world of filmmaking with Jenny Marvin, a talented female filmmaker navigating the industry with passion and creativity. From discussing the importance of storytelling and client relationships to overcoming challenges and leveraging networking opportunities, Jenny shares her valuable experiences and perspectives. Through her journey, we explore the unique insights she brings to her work and the impact of her approach on her clients and collaborators. Get ready for an engaging conversation filled with practical advice, inspiring anecdotes, and a glimpse into the dynamic world of video production.  Key Takeaways  The Power of Networking and Collaboration: Jenny emphasizes the importance of building a strong network within the filmmaking community. Through networking events, workshops, and even casual meetups, she has been able to forge valuable connections with other videographers and photographers. These connections have not only led to referrals but also provided her with opportunities to collaborate on projects and expand her business. Tailoring the Client Experience: Jenny discusses the significance of providing a personalized and professional experience for her clients right from the initial contact. By sending detailed questionnaires and customized proposals, she ensures that she understands her clients' needs and can deliver tailored solutions. This attention to detail not only builds trust but also sets her apart from competitors. Challenges and Opportunities as a Female Filmmaker: As a female filmmaker in a male-dominated industry, Jenny acknowledges both the challenges and advantages she faces. While there may be physical challenges associated with handling heavy equipment and long hours, she also highlights the unique perspective and storytelling approach that women bring to the table. Jenny encourages aspiring female filmmakers to embrace their creativity and seek opportunities to learn and grow within the industry.  About Jenny Marvin Leading JM Visual Art in Colorado, Jenny specializes in shooting branding films, lifestyle and headshots for corporate companies.  As a military daughter, she has moved across the world and back and has a motto to “do things scared.”   The best experiences of Jenny’s life have come from taking chances, connecting with people, and creating a family with the people she works with.  Whether that be in videography, music, sports, or just her daily life Jenny believes in the power of positivity and giving back to those willing and interested to learn.    In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:01] Meet Jenny Marvin [04:41] Empowering and guiding your clients [07:59] Becoming the go-to provider [12:38] Finding the right people for your team [14:46] Thinking beyond your limitations [15:32] The importance of community [23:01] Organized client communication [26:54] Crafting a personal customer experience [29:24] Generating new leads [31:42] Being a female in the film industry [35:43] Connect with Jenny [36:58] Outro  Quotes "Local community is like gold. I mean, it's like the coolest best. Cause you can grab lunch, grab coffee. Being in person is like so great and such a gift." "Invest in yourself, invest in like knowing people, networking." "Have fun, have fun with it. But like be the one that, you know, also on the personality front, you know, makes the experience good for your client." "I love what I do, but man, like a 10 hour, 12 hour day on a trade show floor with a steadicam is like, even if it's just a gimbal, a Ronin, but like I shoot with a mirrorless and a big crazy lens... after a while, like it's a lot." "I think there is a... I think being a female in this industry is so valuable... and I do have the guys on my team who are incredible and, Brilliant. And I also have some women on my team who are just like, yes, let's do this." Guest Links Find Jenny Marvin online Follow Jenny Marvin on Instagram Follow JM Visual Art on Instagram Links FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week" Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

386. Empowering Perspectives: Insights from Female Filmmaker Jenny Marvin

In this episode of the Grow Your Video Business podcast, host Ryan Koral takes listeners on a solo journey through the challenges and triumphs of running a successful video production company. Reflecting on his own experiences, Ryan delves into the importance of delegation in navigating growth and overcoming obstacles. He shares insights on managing a team, adapting to changes in the industry, and finding freedom through effective delegation of tasks like email management. With a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, this episode serves as a valuable resource for video business owners looking to streamline operations, scale their companies, and focus on what truly matters. Key Takeaways  Embrace Delegation: Ryan emphasizes the importance of delegation in scaling a video production business. By entrusting tasks to capable assistants, business owners can focus on high-value activities and foster growth without becoming overwhelmed. Adaptability is Key: Through Ryan's reflections on his own business journey, listeners learn the importance of adaptability in the face of challenges and unexpected changes. Being willing to rethink strategies and pivot when necessary is essential for long-term success in the ever-evolving video production industry. Prioritize Joy and Efficiency: Ryan encourages listeners to prioritize activities that bring joy and align with their strengths, while also recognizing the value of efficiency in business operations. Delegating tasks that drain energy and time allows for a more fulfilling and productive work experience. Start Small and Experiment: Whether it's hiring an assistant or exploring new workflows, Ryan advocates for starting small and viewing the process of delegation as an experiment. By testing different approaches and learning from successes and failures, business owners can gradually refine their strategies for delegation and optimize their operations.  In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [00:57] Freeing up your time [05:03] Executive assistants [07:46] Book recommendations [10:41] Hiring an assistant [15:20] Outro  Quotes "Managing people is not the thing that brings me life in this work." "I've rethought my business in major ways when each of these employees had moved on." "You can get some freedom. You can get your time back. You can find more joy in the work that you're doing if you don't do all of the things." "It is a gift... to have people alongside of me helping me in this area of my business." "Start by making some videos so that when you do feel ready... you've got a place where [assistants] can go." Links FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week"  Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Books Mentioned Your World-Class Assistant, by Michael Hyatt  Buy Back Your Time, by Dan Martell 

385. The Power of Delegation: Thriving in Your Video Business

In this episode, we delve into the captivating journey of Zac Stracener, a filmmaker whose unique blend of creativity, community engagement, and dedication to storytelling has garnered attention both on and off the screen. From his beginnings crafting DIY films to his transition into feature-length productions, Zac shares insights into his creative process, the challenges he's faced, and the importance of fostering connections within the filmmaking community. Through his work, Zac not only entertains audiences but also sparks conversations about mental health and the power of storytelling to create meaningful impact. Join us as we explore the intersection of art, community, and personal growth with Zac Stracener.  Key Takeaways  The Power of Community in Filmmaking: Zac Stracener's journey underscores the importance of building connections within the filmmaking community. By collaborating with fellow creatives, sharing resources, and supporting one another, filmmakers can amplify their impact and bring their visions to life more effectively. Storytelling as a Tool for Social Change: Through his films, Zac Stracener addresses important social issues such as mental health, offering audiences a platform to engage with these topics in a meaningful way. His work demonstrates the power of storytelling to foster empathy, raise awareness, and spark conversations about pressing societal issues. Embracing Creativity and Innovation: From DIY filmmaking to larger-scale productions, Zac's journey highlights the value of embracing creativity and innovation in the pursuit of one's artistic vision. Whether it's finding inventive solutions to budget constraints or pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling techniques, Zac's approach encourages filmmakers to think outside the box and explore new possibilities. Personal Growth Through Art: Zac's dedication to his craft has not only propelled his career forward but also fostered personal growth and self-discovery. Through the ups and downs of his filmmaking journey, Zac has learned valuable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and the transformative power of art. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers to embrace the challenges they face as opportunities for growth and self-expression.  About Zac Stracener Zac Stracener is a Director/Producer/Writer based in North Carolina. His work has been nominated for the Young Director’s Award at Cannes Lions and published by VARIETY. He has also created meaningful stories for The Northface, Freschetta and Jeld-Wen. Zac is well known for capturing raw, visceral human emotions and translating them into heart wrenching scenes and inspiring visuals. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [06:10] Meet Zac Stracener [12:52] Community and Mental Health [21:45] Writing a Feature Film [23:55] Film Clothing [26:55] Film Community [30:21] Advice for being a Creative [34:30] Outro  Quotes "Filmmaking is not just about telling stories; it's about creating connections with your audience and sparking meaningful conversations about important social issues." “In the world of indie filmmaking, collaboration is key. Surround yourself with passionate and talented individuals who share your vision, and together, you can achieve great things." "Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Don't let challenges discourage you; instead, use them as fuel to propel yourself forward on your creative journey." "Art has the power to change hearts and minds. As filmmakers, we have a responsibility to use our platform to shed light on pressing social issues and advocate for positive change." "Never underestimate the power of storytelling. Whether it's through film, music, or literature, storytelling has the ability to inspire, educate, and unite people from all walks of life." Guest Links Find Zac Stracener online Follow Zac Stracener on Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube Follow Film Clothing on Instagram Links Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

384. Exploration of Mental Health and Movie Making with Zac Stracener

In this episode, we delved into the fascinating world of storytelling and entrepreneurship with Pat Taggart, a seasoned creative professional. Pat shared insights into his journey as a storyteller and entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of creativity, passion, and resilience in achieving success. We explored the intersection of business and storytelling, uncovering how effective narratives can drive engagement and connect with audiences on a deeper level. From discussing the evolution of storytelling in the digital age to sharing practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, this episode offered a rich tapestry of wisdom and inspiration for anyone looking to harness the power of storytelling in their endeavors. Key Takeaways  Storytelling is a Powerful Business Tool: Pat Taggart emphasized the significance of storytelling in entrepreneurship, showcasing how compelling narratives can captivate audiences, build brand identity, and drive business success. Authenticity Matters: One key takeaway was the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Pat highlighted the value of genuine, heartfelt narratives that resonate with audiences on a personal level, fostering trust and connection. Adaptability is Essential: As the digital landscape continues to evolve, entrepreneurs must stay adaptable and innovative in their storytelling approaches. Pat discussed the need to embrace change, experiment with new mediums, and tailor narratives to suit diverse platforms and audiences. Passion Fuels Success: Finally, passion emerged as a driving force behind entrepreneurial endeavors. Pat's journey underscored the importance of pursuing projects that align with one's passions and values, as genuine enthusiasm can fuel creativity, resilience, and long-term success.  About Pat Taggart  Pat Taggart is the Founder & Chief Creative of SkyBlue Creative, a video storytelling team based in Philadelphia PA.  Pat is allergic to traditional corporate videos with their stiff scripts and choreographed handshakes. Trusting that the story already exists and doesn’t need to be created, Pat’s sole focus on production day is making his clients comfortable to share their story with authenticity. He’s a husband, a father of two, loves hockey, hates coffee and is currently working on a documentary about the greatest (and craziest) annual radio contest of all time.   In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [05:36] Meet Pat Taggart [10:55] What is a mastermind group? [13:24] The Abundance Mindset [19:47] Don’t be afraid to step out [21:40] Building a business vs building a job [23:33] Telling the story that already exists [27:23] Freedom through delegation [31:07] The secret to getting raving reviews [35:42] Connect with Pat [36:47] Outro  Quotes "Success isn't just about reaching the destination; it's about enjoying the journey along the way." "Innovation thrives on the edge of discomfort." "Challenges are just opportunities in disguise." "The most valuable lessons often come from unexpected sources." "True leadership is not about being in control; it's about empowering others to reach their full potential." Guest Links Find Pat Taggart online Connect with Pat Taggart on LinkedIn Links Find out more about the Studio Sherpas Mastermind group Find out more about 10xFILMMAKER   Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

383. The Art of Business and Creativity: Insights from Pat Taggart

In this engaging episode, we dive into the often-overlooked world of contracts and legal protections for creative entrepreneurs with Ashley Fillingim, the managing partner at Sandstar Law, LLC, and president of Kick Ash Life, LLC. From the picturesque setting of a beachside location, Ashley shares her journey from a traditional legal career to discovering her passion for helping solopreneurs and small business owners navigate the complexities of legal protection. She emphasizes the importance of contracts not just as legal necessities but as foundational tools for building and sustaining healthy business relationships. Key Takeaways  Contracts as Relationship Tools The Importance of Legal Structure for Business Ownership and Rights of Creative Content Regular Contract Review and Update  About Ashley Fillingim Ashley Fillingim believes in legal confidence, simplified. She helps business owners establish solid foundations, protecting coaches and creators with legal ease, not legalese. After two decades at a top-tier international law firm, Ashley walked out of the office high rise, trading high heels for flip flops and beach sunsets–now empowering business owners to advocate for themselves and to protect the relationships at the core of those businesses. In This Episode  [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:42] Meet Ashley Fillingim [04:45] The love language of contracts [12:49] Keep your contracts updated [21:18] Using AI for contracts [23:34] Contracts for small businesses [42:55] Connect with Ashley [44:23] Outro  Quotes "Contracts are really about relationships. They're relationship builders in that they help us get really clear at the beginning of a relationship, how we're going to go on." - Ashley Fillingim  "You can have a separate LLC for your business... It's super important to, like you said, keep your business assets and your personal assets separate." - Ashley Fillingim "Who owns what's produced? Is your name on it anywhere? Do they get to slice and dice it later? Can you use it for promotional purposes?" - Ashley Fillingim "Every six months, at least every year, go back to your contract and take a look at it and make sure everything you learned, all the tough things that you learned in the last year are now taken care of in that contract." - Ashley Fillingim "The bigger your business gets, the more exposure you have, the bigger the contract is, the more money that's coming in from one particular client, the bigger your exposure." - Ashley Fillingim Guest Links Follow Ashley Fillingim on Instagram Connect with Ashley Fillingim on LinkedIn Go to KickAshLaw.com for templates, training, and resources (use this link for the discount) ashley@sandstarlaw.com for legal advice, etc. KickAshLife podcast & blog (unrelated to law) Links Find out more about the 10xFILMMAKER Find out more about the Onward Summit Join the Grow Your Video Business Facebook Group  Follow Ryan Koral on Instagram Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram Check out the full show notes

286. Dealing With Last-Minute Client Requests

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