Scaling Creator

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Episode Overview:

Prepare for a wild ride in this special episode of the Scaling Creator podcast with your hosts Soren and Eriksen Dickens. They delve into a bizarre and cautionary tale from the early days of their video production company, Platinum Peek. The story involves a peculiar client with grandiose plans to incite a revolution through a video project. With humor and a hint of disbelief, this narrative explores the mishaps, red flags, and the importance of vetting clients, emphasizing that not all money is good money, especially when it comes to the threat of overthrowing a government.

Segment Breakdown and Timestamps:

• Introduction and Theme of the Podcast [00:00]
• Unexpected Throwback to an Early Client [01:05]
• Recap of a Project Proposal Gone Astray [02:22]
• Delving into the Client's Background and Intentions [03:40]
• The Filming Adventure in Maui [06:10]
• Post-Production Challenges and Legal Threats [10:15]
• Reflecting on the Lessons Learned [12:30]
• Closing Remarks and Future WTF Series Mention [14:05]

Identification of Key Moments:

• The Dickens brothers recall their first-ever client, intending to initiate a civil war through a video [01:05].
• A dramatic entrance by the client on a tractor, setting the tone for what was to come [06:30].
• After delivering a video the client initially loved, they were faced with unexpected legal threats [10:15].
• A reflection on trusting one's gut and being selective about projects and clients [12:30].

Resource Links and References:

• Scaling Creator Website: scalingcreator.com
• Join the Scaling Creator Discord Community.

Guest Information (if applicable):

• Not applicable as there were no special guests in this episode.

Concluding Summary:

In this unexpectedly entertaining episode, Soren and Ericksen Dickens unravel the tale of an early, unconventional client and the lessons learned from navigating the choppy waters of their initial business endeavors. If you found this episode as amusing and enlightening as we did, don't forget to subscribe for more stories and insights in the Scaling Creator podcast. Join the conversation and the community on Discord, follow their journey on Instagram, and stay tuned for potentially more "WTF series" content.

Remember to always do your due diligence before diving into projects, especially when they sound too strange to be true!

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Episode Overview:

In this episode of the Scaling Creator Podcast, Soren Dickens engages in a deep dive with Dan Fantasia, a seasoned expert in sales recruiting, to unravel the complexities of building and scaling effective sales teams. 

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the recruitment process, learn strategies for hiring sales talent that aligns with their business, and discover the evolving role of sales professionals in today's content-driven marketplace.

Segment Breakdown:

0:00:00 – 0:02:56: Introduction

• Announcement of guest Dan Fantasia and overview of Treeline Inc.

0:02:57 – 0:15:08: Guest Introduction and the Importance of Sales Recruitment

• Dan Fantasia's background and the inception of Treeline Inc.
• Discussion on the challenges of starting in sales recruitment and the value Treeline Inc. provides.

0:15:09 – 0:23:30: Sourcing Top Sales Talent

• In-depth explanation of Treeline's method of sourcing and placing sales professionals.
• The shift in the recruitment industry from 2001 to the present.

0:23:31 – 0:31:45: Founder-Led Sales Teams

• Challenges faced by creator companies with founder-led sales.
• Strategies for transitioning sales responsibilities from founders to hired sales professionals.

0:31:46 – 0:42:06: Creating Systematic Sales Processes

• The importance of systematic approaches in sales for small businesses and startups.
• How Treeline assists companies in identifying and hiring sales talent.

0:42:07 – 0:49:02: Strategic vs. Transactional Sales Models

• The distinction between transactional and strategic sales roles.
• How businesses can balance both types of sales approaches.

0:49:03 – 0:56:22: Sales Evolution and Future Trends

• The evolution of sales practices over time.
• An exploration of how content creation is becoming intertwined with sales roles.

0:56:23 – 1:04:40: Conclusion and Recommendations

• Final thoughts and advice for creators looking to scale their sales efforts.
• Information on where to connect with Dan Fantasia and Treeline Inc.

Key Moments:

• At 0:14:44, Dan shares a memorable story about his early career struggles and the eventual success he found in sales recruiting.
• At 0:31:12, Dan emphasizes the need for founders to let go of the sales process to scale effectively, providing a moment of revelation for many business owners.

Resource Links and References:

• Treeline Inc. website: treelineinc.com
• Dan Fantasia LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/danfantasia
• Job description template and resources mentioned by Dan: treelineinc.com/resources

Guest Information:

Dan Fantasia is the CEO and founder of Treeline Inc., a sales recruitment agency that specializes in matching top sales talent with companies seeking to build or scale their sales teams. With over two decades of experience in the field, Dan has a rich background in sales and has been instrumental in helping numerous companies achieve their growth objectives.

Concluding Summary

Listeners should now have a deeper understanding of the intricacies of sales recruitment and the practical steps required to build a robust sales team that can take a creator business to new heights. If you found the insights from this episode valuable, consider subscribing to the podcast, sharing it with fellow creators, and joining the Scaling Creator community for more enric

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Welcome to the Scaling Creator Podcast, hosted by Soren and Eriksen Dickens. In this episode, we dive into an engaging conversation with Jack Spitser, CEO, and founder of Epic Drone Tours, along with Zack Reuter, the company's COO. Join us as we explore Jack's fascinating journey from a passionate swim photographer to leading a successful drone videography agency. Discover Jack's philosophy of seizing opportunities and going above and beyond to satisfy clients.

Segment Breakdown:

●  [00:00:00 - 00:00:38]: Introduction by hosts Soren and Erickson Dickens, offering a tantalizing glimpse into what the Scaling Creator Podcast has in store.

●  [00:00:39 - 00:07:52]: Jack Spitser's Origins: Dive deep into Jack's background, from his early days as a photographer capturing life's moments to his transition into the professional swim photography world. (Timestamps: Swimming photography roots [00:01:42 - 00:02:53], First professional gig [00:02:53 - 00:03:48], Leveraging opportunities [00:04:08 - 00:05:57]).

●  [00:07:53 - 00:11:58]: Building Epic Drone Tours: Explore the evolution of Jack's career as he shares the story of establishing his company and how he turned his niche expertise into a blossoming business. (Timestamps: Creating value [00:07:53 - 00:08:24], Transition to drones [00:08:25 - 00:09:19]).

●  [00:11:59 - 00:14:22]: The Importance of Passion: Jack emphasizes the significance of pursuing projects aligned with your interests and how it can fuel your creativity and business development. (Timestamps: Photography journey [00:11:59 - 00:12:50], Leveraging passion [00:12:51 - 00:13:37]).

●  [00:14:23 - 00:19:58]: Scaling a Creative Business: Jack and Zach discuss the challenges and successes in scaling Epic Drone Tours, sharing valuable insights for creators looking to expand their operations. (Timestamps: Overcoming scope creep [00:18:36 - 00:19:37]).

●  [00:19:59 - 00:27:05]: The Olympic Experience: Relive Jack’s experience at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he captured moments from the world’s grandest sporting stage as Swim Swam’s photographer. (Timestamps: Getting the Olympic gig [00:22:00 - 00:23:06], Olympic storytelling [00:27:06 - 00:27:47]).

Highlights:

●  Jack shares an amusing anecdote about lens rentals and capturing Michael Phelps's last race on American soil (Timestamp: [00:03:09 - 00:03:11]).

●  Discussing the crucial tipping point in a creator's journey where passion meets business opportunity (Timestamp: [00:07:53 - 00:08:24]).

●  Jack’s reflections on working alongside legendary photographers at the Olympics (Timestamp: [00:26:58 - 00:27:08]).

Guest Information:
●  Jack Spitser: CEO and Founder of Epic Drone Tours, professional swim photographer, and Olympic media contributor.

●  Zack Reuter: COO of Epic Drone Tours, key player in streamlining operations and managing client expectations.

Conclusion:

Don't miss out on the rest of the stories and lessons in this episode, especially if you're a content creator or looking to scale your own creative endeavors. Subscribe to the Scaling Creator Podcast, follow us on social media, and join our free Discord community for more insights. Share your thoughts and feedback with us, and visit Epic Drone Tours to see Jack and Zack’s work in action.

Remember, no matter your niche, there's a story to tell and a business to build around your passion. Stay tuned for more on the next episode of Scaling Creator.

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The goal of Scaling Creator is to explore stories, problems, and solutions for business-minded creatives.

In a world where creators are becoming the lifeblood of many businesses, join us as we connect the dots between what companies need and how video creators can bridge some of those desired outcomes.

Over the past seven years, @platinumpeek has grown from a two-person team into a team of 14. Brothers Soren and Eriksen Dickens wanted to create this podcast community to help other creatives grow and share similar experiences.

Episode 1 is live! Check the link in the bio and listen on all major podcast platforms: https://scalingcreator.com/

#podcast #creative #podcasting #contentcreator #podcastclips #scalingcreator

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Welcome to the Scaling Creator Podcast—your go-to destination for insightful discussions on problems, solutions, and stories tailored for business-minded creators. In this episode, hosts Soren and Eriksen Dickens, along with Aaron Jones, take us on a heart-warming journey through their experiences in the wedding industry, from the initial dive into wedding cinematography to the ongoing pursuit of capturing love stories—both for others and potentially their own.

Highlights from the Episode:

• Setting the Tone: A lively introduction promising a mix of education and entertainment.
• Wedding Adventures: Fresh off a memorable ranch wedding shoot, they share behind-the-scenes glimpses and applaud well-organized vendors.
• The Start in Weddings: Reflecting on their humble beginnings in wedding filming and why they continue to work in this industry.
• Cinematic Secrets with Aaron Jones: Gaining professional insights into the wedding filming process and Aaron's unique strategies.
• Feeling the Love: The emotional side of filming weddings and personal aspirations for romance.
• Navigating Industry Stigmas: Discussing the pretentious aspects of wedding filmmaking and how they've managed the stigma.
• Building a Filmmaking Reputation: Strategies on developing renown as wedding filmmakers and their bespoke approach to capturing these events.
• Overcoming Initial Challenges: They recount their first wedding film experience and the steep learning curve they faced.

Noteworthy Moments:

• The Drone Incident: An amusing story about the unexpected consequences of flying a drone during wedding ceremonies.
• The Significance of Wedding Videos: Highlighting the weight of responsibility that comes with filming someone's most important day.

Final Thoughts:

In "Episode 15 - Peek Wedding Films," the hosts provide a candid look into the life of a wedding filmmaker and the fulfilment that comes from being part of such joyous occasions. Whether you're a budding creator or a seasoned professional, there's something in this episode for everyone. 

Don't forget to visit scalingcreator.com and join the vibrant Discord community to continue the discussion with like-minded individuals. If this episode touched you in any way, remember to subscribe and share it with your friends and fellow romantics.

For more podcast episodes and tips on scaling your creator journey, head over to scalingcreator.com!

How to connect with us 

Website: https://scalingcreator.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalingcreator/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scalingcreator

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platinumpeek/

Discord: https://discord.gg/pbnxacZPm4

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In this episode of the Scaling Creator Podcast, hosts Soren Dickens and Eriksen Dickens sit down with their guest, Aaron Jones, to dive into the origins and the evolution of the comedic character Oakdale Bud. 

They discuss the themes of storytelling, character development, audience targeting, self-reflection, and the spirit of Central Valley, California. Eriksen, who portrays Oakdale Bud, shares the inspirations behind the character and how he shaped Bud's persona over time. Through laughter and serious reflection, they explore the impact of Oakdale Bud on the local community and the responsibilities that come with creating a character that resonates with a wide audience.

Resource Links and References:

• Scaling Creator official website: http://scalingcreator.com
• Free Discord community for Scaling Creator: https://discord.gg/pbnxacZPm4
• Oakdale Bud videos on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0HNFV7Brp3U

Guest Information:

• Aaron Jones: Video creator and friend of the hosts who has been involved in several Oakdale Bud projects. Also works for a local business and has collaborated with Eriksen on content that has been well-received far beyond the Central Valley community.

Summary:

Whether you're from a small town or just appreciate good humor and deep life insights, Oakdale Bud's evolution represents storytelling at its finest. Eriksen's dedication to the character's development and the team's thoughtful content creation provide entertainment and a mirror to our own experiences. Don't forget to follow the Scaling Creator podcast, engage with them on social media, and join the discussion in their free Discord community.

Remember, storytelling is indeed the world's most powerful weapon, and each of us has a story to tell.

Subscribe, Share, and Comment - Your feedback makes our podcast better!

How to connect with us 

Website: https://scalingcreator.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalingcreator/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scalingcreator

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platinumpeek/

Discord: https://discord.gg/pbnxacZPm4

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Welcome to another episode of Scaling Creator Podcast! In this insightful episode, hosts Soren Dickens and Eriksen Dickens sit down with leadership expert, Adrian Koehler. Get ready for a deep dive into the challenges of leadership, the importance of self-mastery, and actionable tips for scaling your organization.

Show Notes:

Introduction to Adrian Koehler (00:00:00 - 00:01:30)

• Meeting the guest, Adrian Koehler, a seasoned leadership coach..
• Overview of Adrian's background and expertise in leadership development.

Leadership Challenges (00:01:30 - 00:03:45)

• Discussion on common challenges leaders face in scaling their organizations.
• The significance of humility in leadership and the need for self-mastery.

Delegation and Leadership Bias (00:03:45 - 00:07:20)

• Exploring the challenges of delegation in leadership.
• Addressing leadership bias and the need for a more scientific approach to leadership.

Principles vs. Plans (00:07:20 - 00:12:15)

• The importance of teaching principles over specific plans in leadership.
• Adrian Koehler’s insights into decision-making, treating others, commitment, and rigor in leadership.

Purposeful Leadership (00:12:15 - 00:17:40)

• Adrian's take on being an "edgy" leader with a purpose.
• The challenges of communication in leadership and the "sandwich principle."

Tough Conversations (00:17:40 - 00:23:05)

• The avoidance of tough conversations and its impact on leadership.
• The value of addressing issues when they are small for the sake of the team and the mission.

Life is Short; Take Courageous Action (00:23:05 - 00:26:45)

• Adrian Koehler emphasizes the importance of taking courageous action.
• Urges leaders to go beyond information and make a stand for their goals.
• Encouragement to seek support, coaching, and stand for something meaningful.

Connect with Adrian Koehler (00:26:45 - 00:42:26:19)

• Find Adrian on Instagram and The Naked Leadership Podcast.
• Discussed some details on upcoming events and how to participate.
• Introduction to the Revenant Process and personal leadership accelerant.
• Recommendation to connect with Chad Brown, a member of Adrian's coaching team.
• Adrian's commitment to supporting anyone willing to make a positive change.

As we wrap up this episode, we have definitely gained invaluable insights into the leadership challenges, self-mastery, and the art of purposeful leadership from Adrian Koehler. 

Don't forget to check out his podcast, The Naked Leadership, and connect with him on Instagram for more leadership wisdom. Until next time, keep scaling and creating!

How to connect with us 

Website: https://scalingcreator.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalingcreator/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scalingcreator

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platinumpeek/

Discord: https://discord.gg/pbnxacZPm4

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Introduction:

In Episode 12 of the Scaling Creator's Podcast, hosts Soren and Eriksen Dickens embark on a transformative journey to the Philippines, uncovering the untapped potential and remarkable experiences this emerging economy has to offer. They share their unique perspective on the beauty, culture, and incredible talent they encountered, along with the valuable lessons learned from working with a diverse global team.

Key Points:

• Exploring the Philippines:
  • Soren and Eriksen kick off the episode by sharing their awe-inspiring experience in the Philippines. They discuss the incredible natural beauty, from lush forests and vibrant oceans to picturesque beaches and breathtaking mountainous regions.
• Meeting the Team:
  • Soren and Eriksen met their global team, composed of dedicated professionals from the Philippines, in person. They emphasize the importance of strengthening their relationships and building a familial atmosphere within their organization.
• Embracing Cultural Diversity:
  • Hosts reflect on their initial concerns about Filipino cultural differences and norms. They found that despite these differences, they shared common experiences, lifestyles, and access to information with their Filipino team members.
• Contrasts in the Philippine Culture:
  • Stark contrasts were highlighted in living standards and economic disparities in the Philippines.
• Encountering Unusual Complaints:
  • Soren and Eriksen recall a humorous incident where a guest at a high-end resort complained about hearing chickens in the morning.
• The Impact of Filipino Culture:
  • Soren and Eriksen expressed how their trip to the Philippines made them feel more connected to their global team. They note the profound impact of experiencing a new culture firsthand, as it transformed their perspective on life and work.
• Learning from Emerging Economies:
  • They encourage listeners to educate themselves about different cultures and emerging economies. By doing so, individuals can break away from stereotypes and develop a broader worldview, ultimately benefiting them in many ways.
• The Future of Global Business:
  • The importance of supporting local businesses while exploring opportunities in emerging economies was emphasized as the world is becoming more connected, and the ability to work with international talent is an exciting prospect.
  • Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) is one of the top contributors to the economy of the Philippines.
• Strengthening Creativity:
  • They conclude the episode by discussing the role of storytellers and creators. Sharing their experiences and embracing diverse perspectives can enrich one's storytelling abilities and broaden horizons.

Conclusion:

Episode 12 takes you on a remarkable journey to the Philippines, providing insights into cultural diversity, business opportunities, and the transformative impact of experiencing the world beyond your own borders. It's a reminder that embracing different perspectives can lead to personal growth, creativity, and an expanded worldview.

How to connect with us 

Website: https://scalingcreator.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalingcreator/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scalingcreator

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platinumpeek/

Discord:

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Host: Soren Dickens and Eriksen Dickens

Guest: Cameron Sluggett

Podcast Summary: 

Welcome to the Scaling Creator podcast with your hosts, Soren and Eriksen Dickens. In this special episode, we sit down with Cameron Sluggett, a remarkable entrepreneur who has defied all odds by thriving with cerebral palsy. Discover the inspiring story of how he built successful ventures like Dirty Toes and Veritas Vans. Along the way, we uncover profound life lessons, from the art of taking small steps to the importance of selfless giving and unwavering dedication to one's craft. Join us on this incredible journey of resilience and achievement.

Main Topics:

1. How the Dickens brothers met and had a close relationship with Cameron
2. How Cameron’s Mom was able to help aid his speech impediment
3. Talking about strong pursuits and differences at a young age
4. Cameron’s journey on how they collectively created Dirty Toes
5. Venturing forth with his new business, Veritas Vans

Key Lessons:

1. Take small steps toward your goal, and everything will fall into place
2. You should help people without thinking what’s the reciprocated benefit to you
3. There are different paths toward success, and it’s okay not to finish college

How to connect with us 

Website: https://scalingcreator.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalingcreator/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scalingcreator

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platinumpeek/

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Host: Eriksen Dickens and Soren Dickens
Guest: Erik Long
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/the_road_warrior16

Podcast Summary:

Join the Scaling Creator podcast, presented by Soren and Eriksen Dickens. In this edition, they engage in a conversation with Erik Long, delving into his transformation of a close brush with death into a life filled with purpose and living in the moment. Discover Erik's inspiring narrative of venturing into creative photography, achieving accolades, and passionately following his hobbies.

Main Topics:

1. Early upbringing in the small town of Sonora during childhood.
2. The importance of surrounding yourself with the right individuals in your inner circle.
3. The pivotal moment in Erik's life following the gunshot wound.
4. Erik's path into the world of wildlife and landscape photography.

Key Lessons:

1. Anything is possible with hard work and perseverance
2. It’s not really about the end goal but the journey that takes you there, which is more important
3. Surround yourself with good, positive people

Notable Quotes:

1.  “So when people don't believe in it or don't see fit, then it's hard. But you have to break that connection. You can love people from afar, but you know, if you can't offer them something positive or if they can't offer something positive to you, then there's no point in doing this. You know, their life is short, very short.” (Timestamp 21:00)
2. "The more uncomfortable you are, the more you're growing, the more risk you take, the more you fail, but the more you succeed." (Timestamp 27:13)
3. "If you love something, if you truly love something, you're going to be okay waiting for it... you just got to, again, roll with the punches, man. (Timestamp 01:01:45)

How to connect with us 

Website: https://www.scalingcreative.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/scalingcreative

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/ScalingCreative/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/platinumpeek/