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Den addresses the elephant in the room after posting an AI-generated episode that fooled most of his audience. 

He breaks down why AI will disrupt the video production industry but won't replace it entirely, using the analogy of synthesizers in music - powerful tools that still require expertise to master.

Key insights covered:

• Why clients having AI tools doesn't threaten skilled videographers
• How to get ahead of the curve instead of hiding from change
• The biggest opportunity: using AI to handle admin and marketing tasks
• Why your feast-or-famine cycle exists (and how AI can fix it)
• The 3 Ds of business and the 7-hour, 11-touchpoint buyer journey
• Practical ways AI can work as your 24/7 virtual assistant

Den shares real examples from VBA clients who are already leveraging AI for content creation, lead generation, and business growth - without losing their human edge.

Podcast Description

AI disruption is here. Are you ready?

After posting an AI-generated episode that went largely undetected, Den dives deep into what this means for videographers and video business owners.

In this episode, you'll discover: 

✅ Why AI won't replace videographers (but will change everything) 

✅ The fatal flaw in thinking "this will never affect my business" 

✅ How to use AI as your 24/7 business development tool 

✅ Why you're stuck in feast-or-famine (and the AI solution) 

✅ Real strategies VBA clients are using to scale with AI

Don't get left behind. The videographers who embrace AI strategically will dominate the next decade. 

Those who don't... well, they'll be competing on price forever.

Ready to future-proof your video business? This episode shows you exactly how.

Subscribe for weekly no-BS strategies to scale your video business and join 100+ videographers already implementing these systems in the VBA community.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com 

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

You’re working 70-hour weeks, juggling clients, edits, marketing, wondering why it still feels like you're barely keeping your head above water.

Sound familiar?

In this deep dive with our new hosts, Kai Mercer and Blake Juno, we unpack exactly why so many talented videographers get trapped in the feast-or-famine cycle, and how you can break free without turning into a pushy salesman. 

If you’re an introvert or just tired of the hustle, this one’s for you. 

We’re diving into the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts behind real, sustainable growth. 

Let’s get into it

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com 

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

This week's episode is a personal one. Den shares the incredible story of Bruce Logan ASC - the man behind the Death Star explosion in Star Wars — and the humbling lessons he learned from working with him.

But it’s not just about nostalgia. Den also pulls no punches about the real state of the video industry in 2025: budget cuts, slower sales cycles, and why many creative businesses are quietly collapsing without realizing it.

You'll learn why "good enough" might actually save your business this year... and why community, mentorship, and adaptability are more critical than ever.

If you’re serious about building a sustainable creative business — especially in a tougher market — this episode is unmissable.

🎥 Watch the behind-the-scenes footage of Bruce’s project for Sony, coming soon to YouTube.

➡️ Ready for real business support? DM Den on Instagram @den_lennie or email [email protected].

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com 

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

After three decades behind the camera, I’ve made a big call…

In this episode, I’m announcing something I’ve never done before: I’m releasing my entire archive of foundational training , shooting, lighting, camera operation, all for free on YouTube.

These trainings once sold for thousands. Now, they’re yours to learn from, build on, and share.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game a while, this is the kind of practical, real-world knowledge you won’t find on TikTok tutorials.

Inside this episode:

• Why I’m giving away 30 years of production experience
• What's inside the Videographer Foundation Series (now on YouTube)
• The difference between gear knowledge and storytelling skill
• How you can apply for a $2,000 scholarship to join the VBA Uplevel program if you're in a regional area

This is about giving back and helping the next wave of filmmakers stop guessing and start growing.

🎥 Check out the free training: [Search “Den Lennie The Video Mentors” on YouTube]
 🎓 Apply for a scholarship: DM “SCHOLARSHIP” on Instagram @denlennie or email [email protected]

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com 

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

Ever feel like your video business is stuck in survival mode, feast or famine, no time to breathe, and definitely no time to grow?

In this episode, Den sits down with Matt Smolen, founder of Balloon Tree Productions, to uncover the surprisingly simple system that helped him go from an overwhelmed solo freelancer to running a thriving 5-person team, operating out of a slick Melbourne studio.

Matt reveals:

• The 1-4-8 rule that created consistent monthly revenue
• How he finally stopped micromanaging and started leading
• Why he ditched the traditional niche and leaned into his unique creative style
• The mindset shift that let him build a business that supports his life—not consumes it

If you’re ready to stop doing everything yourself and start building something sustainable (and fun), this episode is a must-listen.

👉 Want more behind-the-scenes lessons from real video business owners? Subscribe and leave a review, it helps us help more creatives like you.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com 

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

In this inspiring conversation, Den Lennie sits down with Caleb Maxwell from Hebron Films to unpack the real, behind-the-scenes journey of growing a video production business from a struggling startup to a thriving six-figure operation. 

Caleb shares the raw truths of making just $25K a year, hitting revenue ceilings, and the pivotal role coaching played in scaling up to $500K. 

This episode explores what it really takes to grow sustainably in the creative industry, from overcoming limiting beliefs about money to building a purpose-driven business (and family).

If you're a videographer, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur feeling stuck, this episode is your roadmap to aligned, strategic growth, with a whole lot of heart.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com 

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

In this candid solo episode, I reflect on key lessons from dozens of conversations with videographers over the past 90 days. 

From the difference between those who are scaling successful video businesses and those who are stuck whining, to the transformative power of reframing client problems, this video is packed with hard-won wisdom.

I break down how adopting a business mindset, asking deeper diagnostic questions, and moving away from transactional pricing can unlock long-term client relationships and serious revenue.

Real stories from our VBA coaches, like Caleb turning a $5K inquiry into a $27K project, demonstrate the power of positioning video as a solution to business problems, not just a service.

Whether you're freelancing, stuck in a feast-or-famine cycle, or looking to grow a serious video business, this episode will give you the insights (and wake-up call) you need.

👉 Listen until the end for the story about how one video install guide helped a client win over tradies and dominate their niche.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com 

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

Jay Moyes was this close to giving up on his video business dreams

He was ready to trade his camera for a wrench and go back to .. 

But instead? He built a six-figure video business and now gets paid to travel the world, filming in incredible locations. 

And the craziest part? 

It all came down to one decision that completely changed everything. 

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your creative career or wondered if success is really possible, Jay’s story might be exactly what you need to hear

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

Send us a text

The video business is more competitive than ever; clients are harder to find, budgets are shrinking, and new "gurus" are flooding the space with outdated, one-size-fits-all advice. But here’s the truth most people won’t tell you: tough markets are a massive opportunity. IF you know how to position yourself correctly.

💡 In this episode, I’ll break down:

✅ Why 30% of video businesses thrive while others struggle
✅ The 3 core pillars that separate the successful from the stuck
✅ Real case studies of videographers doubling and tripling revenue
✅ Why niching down is the FASTEST way to charge premium rates
✅ The pricing shift that took one client from $6K to $24K per project

💥 Don't just survive, DOMINATE the market. Every week, we share real, actionable strategies to help video business owners attract better clients, increase revenue, and scale without burnout.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJvhLz71SDY&t=22s

🚀 Submit Your Business for a LIVE Review: Drop your biggest business challenge in the comments, and we might feature your question in an upcoming episode.

🔔 Subscribe & Turn on Notifications – Don’t miss out on the strategies that actually work in today’s market.

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie
Watch our Free Training:

https://bit.ly/free_video_growth_training

Send us a text

📞 Waiting for work to come to you? It’s time to make the first move.

When business slows down, it’s easy to get stuck in waiting mode—but the best opportunities often come from the connections you’ve already made.

This episode dives into practical ways to generate leads and secure work during lean times. We explore the power of checking in with past clients and nurturing existing relationships to unlock new business.

You’ll also hear insights on cold outreach, the power of referrals, and why self-belief is key to staying proactive and resilient. Because success starts with action.

The Video Mentors: Den Lennie, Andy Johnston, Caleb Maxell, Matt Smolen

Download the Little Black Book of Video Business Secrets: The Success Formula of 6 and 7-figure Video Businesses - Stand out, win premium projects, and grow while working less.

Get more great resources and check out how you can work with us in our FREE community directly at TheVideoMentors.com

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00:00 Introduction and Addressing the Perception of Lean Times

01:27 The Power of Genuine Conversations and Checking In on Past Clients

07:37 Utilizing LinkedIn for Outreach and Collaboration

11:18 Nurturing Existing Clients and Offering Additional Services

15:34 The Importance of Mindset and Self-Belief in Business

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com