

Grow Your Video Business with Ryan Koral
Ryan Koral
đŹ The podcast for ambitious filmmakers who want to build a thriving businessâwithout burning out.
Hosted by Ryan Koral, a 20+ year video production vet and coach, this weekly show is your behind-the-scenes pass to what actually works in the world of commercial video.
Every episode is packed with real talk, tactical strategies, and candid conversations to help you:
+ Book better clients (at better rates)
+ Build systems that donât rely 100% on you
+ Charge what you're worthâwith confidence
+ Create videos that make an impact and grow your bottom line
If you're ready to stop winging it and start running your business like a proâyouâre in the right place.
đď¸ New episodes drop every week.
đ Learn more at https://studiosherpas.com
Hosted by Ryan Koral, a 20+ year video production vet and coach, this weekly show is your behind-the-scenes pass to what actually works in the world of commercial video.
Every episode is packed with real talk, tactical strategies, and candid conversations to help you:
+ Book better clients (at better rates)
+ Build systems that donât rely 100% on you
+ Charge what you're worthâwith confidence
+ Create videos that make an impact and grow your bottom line
If you're ready to stop winging it and start running your business like a proâyouâre in the right place.
đď¸ New episodes drop every week.
đ Learn more at https://studiosherpas.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 2, 2023 ⢠46min
353. Driving Growth Through Authentic Connection with Crystal Tosh
In this enlightening episode of podcast, Ryan engages in a candid conversation with Crystal Tosh. They explore the evolving landscape of video production, emphasizing the importance of authentic communication, understanding client needs, and leveraging technology like ChatGPT. Key topics covered include: The significance of face-to-face interactions in building trust. The challenges and benefits of using AI tools like ChatGPT. The essence of simplifying communication for better understanding. The humorous side of AI-generated content. Key Takeaways You'll grasp the importance of authentic, face-to-face communication in building trust and understanding client needs. You'll discover the potential and pitfalls of using AI tools like chat GPT in video production. You'll appreciate the value of simplifying messages and the unexpected humor AI can bring. About Crystal Tosh Crystal Tosh is a marketer, SoTrue co-founder, and advocate for animal welfare and the environment. With degrees in psychology and public health, she crafts effective marketing strategies by understanding human behavior and empathy. Her love for nature and animals drives her nonprofit work, while her dedication to ethical marketing ensures a compassionate connection with audiences. Get ready to be inspired for a sustainable and compassionate world with Crystal as your speaker. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:12] Meet Crystal Tosh [06:15] Crystalâs marketing agency [07:58] Authentic connection [10:30] AIâs influence on social media [12:13] Using video content for a video business [16:12] Be true to yourself [25:23] Finding your ideal clients [33:59] Becoming a people-person [40:21] Listen to the right voices [44:04] Connect with Crystal [45:20] Outro Quotes "When you are, like, literally within hugging distance of me, look out, because here I come." - Ryan "Tell it to me like I'm in third grade. And I'm like, oh my gosh, yeah, this sounds so much more like me." - Ryan "You just get all of the non-verbals and you get an opportunity to really listen on a whole other level." - Ryan "If people don't trust you, if potential clients don't trust you, you're going to be... it doesn't have to be hard." - Ryan Guest Links Find Crystal Tosh online Follow Crystal Tosh on Instagram | Facebook Links Download the PDF resource guide to Unlock the Power of AI 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

Sep 25, 2023 ⢠52min
352. From Motion Design to Business Strategy: Kevin Rapp's Journey
In this episode of the podcast, Ryan sits down with Kevin Rapp, a seasoned professional with over 15 years in the video production industry. They delve into the intricacies of the video business, from understanding client needs to the strategic role of video in achieving business goals. Key topics covered include: The transition from motion design to leading a consulting company. The growth journey of Root Insurance with Kevin's involvement. The importance of being a strategic partner rather than just a videographer. The art of understanding and addressing client pain points. Key Takeaways You'll discover the importance of being more than just a videographer â becoming a strategic partner for your clients. You'll gain insights into the challenges and rewards of transitioning roles within the video industry. You'll understand the significance of addressing client pain points and delivering tailored video solutions. About Kevin Rapp Kevin Rapp has spent over 15 years in the video production industry, starting as a motion designer and now leading his own consulting company as Chief Creative Officer. He's spent time both at studios and in-house, helping Root Insurance grow from a 100 employee startup to an 1,800 person public company in 3 years. He also loves writing bios about himself in the third person. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [04:11] Meet Kevin Rapp [07:34] A new take on video investment [14:33] The âmeal prepâ view of video campaigns [20:36] Direction of content trends [22:11] System approach to making multiple use asset campaign [26:53] Guiding your clients [30:49] Video creatorsâ intuition [35:36] Building creative trust [40:56] Navigating how AI is changing the video landscape [43:30] Adding actual value to your customers [46:30] Connect with Kevin [50:25] Outro Quotes "You are the expert. That's what people get wrong. You need to be in control, position yourself as the expert." "You realize that they don't want to buy video, they want to buy a result." "You need to flip the script. This is Sales 101, having great rapport, asking good questions, digging deep on what the actual struggles are." "Clients love taking control. That's where the whole like Studio Sherpas, like this, we want to be able to guide our clients." Guest Links Connect with Kevin Rapp on LinkedIn Links Download the PDF resource guide to Unlock the Power of AI 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

Sep 18, 2023 ⢠48min
351. The Art of Being a Solution: How to Grow Your Video Business with Walid Azami
In this episode of the podcast, Ryan is joined by Walid Azami to discuss the business of video production. They dive into the importance of positioning oneself as a solution to clients' problems, understanding clients' needs, and how to approach pricing and sales. Key topics include: The importance of being a solution to a problem clients have or will have. How to stand out in a crowded market. The power of reaching out to people and building relationships. The impact of surrounding yourself with positive, idea-driven people. Key Takeaways You should walk away knowing how to position yourself as a solution to clients' problems and stand out in a crowded market - and a little strategy you can use to compound the opportunities for new work that can have HUGE dividends. You'll discover the importance of reaching out to people, building relationships, and surrounding yourself with positive, idea-driven individuals. You'll gain insights into the power of being human, connecting with others, and making a positive impact in the video production industry. About Walid Azami Walid Azami is a photographer/director based in Los Angeles. Walid is a refugee from Afghanistan, he had always had a major interest in the creative/entertainment business and in photography. He started his photography career with singer Usher. Some of his work is the cover of RollingStone Magazine Italia with Tiziano Ferro. He has worked with people like Bob Proctor, Bernie Sanders, Perry Farrel, Mariah Carey, Kanye West, and Madonna. Walid has invested the last 7 years in helping thousands of photographers/videographers, teaching them how to build a business from scratch. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:55] Meet Walid [06:25] Walidâs story [15:22] Race to the bottom [18:32] Starting from the ground up [19:13] Solution focused [19:40] Break trends [20:44] Reaching out [21:58] Serving people [29:16] Curate your circle [38:38] Overcoming self-doubt [44:10] Connect with Walid [45:42] Outro Quotes "Every time I post, every single time I write a blog, every single time I pick up the phone or I text or email a client, I have to answer one question. How am I going to be a solution to a problem they have?" - Walid Azami "Anyone that does that today is gonna stand out. I would not follow trends." - Walid Azami "I reached out to three people every single day. I'm an intense guy. So I wasn't allowed to go to bed until I learned, I learned one thing and I reached out to three people." - Walid Azami "The amount of money that will come your way is astronomical, astronomical. Good karma, good relationships." - Walid Azami "We have to reach for humanity. And man, there's something about people that feels good when someone asks about you and notices you and all that." - Walid Azami Guest Links Find Walid Azami online Find out more about "S.T.E.P. Pricing" (the course for photographers) Follow Walid Azami on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube Links Learn more about the Onward Summit 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 Check out the full show notes

Sep 11, 2023 ⢠42min
350. How to Navigate the Challenges of Video Production | Tips for Commercial Filmmakers
In this milestone episode of the podcast, Ryan discusses the unpredictable nature of the video business, the challenges of prospecting, and the importance of adaptability. He shares personal experiences, insights from his journey, and the evolution of his production company, Tell Studios. Ryan also touches on the significance of niching down in the industry and the transformative power of documentary storytelling. Key Takeaways You'll discover the importance of predictability in the video business and how to navigate the feast or famine cycles. You'll understand the transformative power of documentary storytelling and its impact on brand connection. You'll gain insights into the challenges and rewards of niching down in the video production industry. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [02:22] Facing a tough economy [05:19] Lead generation [07:50] Niching to Enroll Films [10:46] An evolving team [14:35] Creating processes [21:03] Enroll Films! [24:13] Meet The Difference Makers Podcast [31:04] Hiring an executive producer [32:55] The future of this show [39:23] Evaluating your time Quotes "Without predictability in business, you go through feast or famine." "I want to have a conversation with people that understand the value of video." "I've known forever, YouTube is the place to be." "I've been doing this work inside of Studio Sherpas and educating filmmakers." "This basketball coach was the person who was responsible for me ending up at the university." Links Learn more about the Onward Summit 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 Check out the show notes page

Sep 4, 2023 ⢠48min
349. From Social Media to Live Video: Jim Fuhs' Journey of Adaptation
On todayâs show I talk with Jim Fuhs about something he has loads of experience with - creating connections through your brand by leveraging video content. This is a particularly important episode for video businesses. We talk not only of the value you can add to your own business through using video, but also how you can extend this knowledge to your video clients when creating content for them. We also cover a bit of how AI is affecting video and storytelling. The truth is that we will always have a need for the human element in storytelling. You can leverage AI as a tool for creating, but at the end of the day, the person behind the brand is what truly moves potential clients. There is no better way to showcase this than to use video to convey a personal and authentic story. Be encouraged, the importance of video in our world is just begging and there is so much room for growth in your video business! Key Takeaways Leverage AI and human creativity to create effective and efficient video content Video is the best way to emotionally connect with your audience online Repurpose video content to increase your impact About Jim Fuhs Jim Fuhs is the President of Fuhsion Marketing, a seasoned digital marketing consultant, and a retired Marine LtCol with over 30 years of business and social media experience. Jim has a unique approach to marketing that fuses Marine Corps Leadership with next-level digital marketing, offering his clients a perspective that sets him apart from the rest. As a highly successful Marine Corps Officer, Jim's leadership experience and expertise enable him to navigate the ever-changing marketing and technology landscape. He is a sought-after speaker, live streamer, podcaster, remote live stream, and virtual event producer, with a passion for excellence that shines through in everything he does. Jim's mission is to revolutionize the marketing industry with his innovative strategies and unparalleled insights. His commitment to excellence and dedication to his client's success has earned him a reputation as an innovator in the industry. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, Jim is here to help you unlock your brand's full potential and take your business to the next level. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [02:33] Meet Jim Fuhs [08:01] Jimâs marketing positioning [09:43] Tell your story [12:57] AI in filmmaking and branding [21:07] Importance of video content [28:18] Creating a live show [32:49] Repurposing content [42:15] Being on camera [45:13] Connect with Jim [46:01] Outro Quotes âPeople connect with you, I think, through video much more than they do through other mediums, short of being in person.â [10:45] - Jim Fuhs âYouâre creating this legacy that people can go out and watch 10 years from now.â [10:58] - Jim Fuhs âHow can you simplify things as opposed to feeling like you got to complicate them?â [45:00] - Jim Fuhs Guest Links Find Jim Fuhs online Follow Jim Fuhs on Instagram | Twitter Links Learn more about the Onward Summit 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 Check out the full show notes

Aug 28, 2023 ⢠43min
348. Mastering Sales and Pricing in Video Production with Matt Johnston
They discuss the importance of pricing and selling video solutions. Matt Johnston talks about his experience in creating viral videos and the importance of empathy in social video content. They emphasize the significance of understanding client struggles and goals in the sales process. Valuable advice is given for growing a filmmaking business and having a positive mindset.

Aug 21, 2023 ⢠1h 1min
347. Consistency and Connection: Video Marketing Insights with Peter Grano
On the show this week I talk with Peter Grano about one of the biggest keys in business - building strong relationships. Sometimes we get so focused on making money that we lose sight of what really matters. The relationships that you build are what will contribute more enjoyment than anything else in your business. We also talk about some different strategies for effective video marketing for your business and for your clients. Itâs important to use a style of video that fits your target audience and works in line with your brand. Most importantly, spend time creating quality content and investing heavily into your relationships in your business. This combination will lead to consistent fulfillment and growth in your business. Key Takeaways The road to success is long and takes steadfast consistency. Investing in relationships will make your work more meaningful and enjoyable. At the end of the day people and relationships are what matter more than work and money. Use a consistent and intentional social media presence to build trust and authority. About Peter Grano Having spent the last 5 years as the lead video producer at Business Builders, a small but mighty marketing agency in sunny St. Augustine, FL, Peter Grano has developed his skills as a DP, Director and Editor to better serve the clients that the agency serves day in and day out. With a huge appetite (in more ways than one) for excellence and a unique eye for lighting, Peter believes that people are everything in this business. Through intentional relationships and investing in himself through communities like this one, Peter constantly seeks to provide value to others and believes that without intentional friendships, you're not going to last, much less get to produce the kind of work that you've always wanted to. Stumbling into the world of Studio Sherpas has been one of the greatest blessings in his life and he considers himself lucky to be talking to the very handsome and skilled cinematographer, Ryan Koral. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:47] Meet Peter Grano [13:31] Current successful trends in business marketing [18:48] Produced vs user-created content [23:24] Create the wow factor [27:18] Donât create, document [31:24] Build trust and authority through social media [35:16] Relationships and consistency [43:41] Enjoy the journey [47:59] Delegation [55:43] Connect with Peter [57:45] Outro Quotes "It always starts out on a personal level with some of the best clients.â [29:46] - Peter Grano âYou donât just do stuff for money, there is a personal side to everything.â [37:36] - Peter Grano âItâs a long road to success and being consistent is the most important thing.â [37:57] - Peter Grano Quest Links Find Peter Grano online Follow Peter Grano on Facebook Follow Business Builders on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Links Learn more about the Onward Summit 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 Check out the full show notes

Aug 14, 2023 ⢠44min
346. The Power of Clear Positioning: Lessons from Robby Fowler
On the show today I have a wonderful conversation with Robby Fowler about just how important it is to get crystal clear on who you serve and what problems you solve for them. This will help you turn a blanket brand strategy that connects with no one into a clear and compelling call that will show your target audience that you know and understand them. By getting clear on who you serve, what problem you solve, and how you can accomplish this for them; you will be able to pull in more leads, build trust, and convert those leads into sales that are supported by a healthy and genuine relationship. Itâs time to clear things up and move forward into greater success for your business! Key Takeaways Find a common denominator that links your target clients. Use the 3 Pâs of Positioning to communicate with clarity who you serve and how you help them. When marketing, lead with the problem that you solve for your client. Use the ABCs of business to diagnose the health of your business and identify what is holding you back. About Robby Fowler Robby Fowler is a branding and marketing strategist who helps high-integrity consultants, coaches, and trainers build, brand, and market personal brands that make more (than) money. Robby believes too many personal brand businesses are trapped on a treadmill of activity because theyâre not crystal clear on what specific business they want to build. While every personal brand wants more money, Robby helps them get there by building a business worth giving their lives to. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [01:50] Meet Robby Fowler [06:06] Turning setback into success [12:30] The Three Pâs of Positioning [16:22] Niching [25:13] How to develop a successful hook [31:04] Growing through experience [34:54] The ABCs of Business [41:44] Connect with Robby [43:31] Outro Quotes âFog slows down even the fastest Ferrariâ [14:00] - Robby Fowler âGet busy then get pickyâ [20:37] - Robby Fowler âUse what you might consider as your weaknesses as your strengths. [24:09] - Robby Fowler Guest Links Follow Robby Fowler on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Connect with Robby Fowler on LinkedIn Get your free copy of THE 7 SIMPLE SECRETS BEHIND PERSONAL BRAND WEBSITES THAT GET RESULTS Get the 4 Freaky Fast Friday Wins emails Get more insights on his podcast, The Brand ED Podcast Links FREE Workshop Available "How to Consistently Earn Over $100k Per Year in Video Production While Working Less Than 40 Hours Per Week" Get the ASCEND Method Cheat Sheet 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

Aug 7, 2023 ⢠49min
345. Mastering Organic Social Media and Content Marketing with Dorien Morin-van Dam
Today on the show, I talk with Dorien Morin-van Dam, an expert in organic social media and content marketing, about the slippery subject of social media marketing for your business. In the conversation, we break down some simple ways that you can get started with social media marketing for your business that is meaningful and effective for you. We also discuss the importance of targeting your marketing so that it is not a waste of time and how to repurpose content to maximize your exposure and impact with the least amount of effort. This show will disrupt any fears or hesitations that you have about getting into the world of social media marketing for your business and provide you with some practical steps to make your social media game more easy and effective than ever before! Key Takeaways Use authenticity, storytelling, and behind the scenes content to create engaging and compelling social media content that grips your target audience. Repurpose content in many forms for maximum exposure and impact. In order to create content you must consume and learn from content that speaks to you. Leverage the simple steps of mastering LinkedIn to build your authority in your field and grow your network. About Dorien Morin-van Dam Dorien Morin-van Dam is a leading expert in organic social media and content marketing with over 12 years of experience. As a Certified Social Media Manager and Agile Marketer, she is well-versed in the latest techniques and best practices for driving engagement and results through organic social media. Dorien is an international speaker, and hosts her own livestream show and podcast, "Strategy Talks." Youâll recognize her on stage and online by her always-present orange glasses, a nod to her Dutch heritage. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome to the show! [03:16] Meet Dorien Morin-van Dam [08:51] What is effective in the social media world today [13:56] Adopting the voice of your client [15:50] The power of blogging today [22:46] Niche your marketing [25:16] Incorporating video into blogs [27:39] Baby steps for getting started [35:02] Content marketing from a live show [42:16] Consume to create [45:45] Connect with Dorien [46:46] Outro Quotes âTheyâre telling me the stories, and the passion of their business shines through when the business owner talks to me.â [08:28] Dorien Morin-van Dam âMake sure you stay true to who you are and the kind of video that you like.â [41:23] - Dorien Morin-van Dam âIn order to create content you have to consume content, I am a firm believer in that.â [42:55] - Dorien Morin-van Dam Guest Links Find Dorien Morin-van Dam online Follow Dorien Morin-van Dam on Instagram | Twitter #strategytalks 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 Check out the full show notes

Jul 31, 2023 ⢠57min
344. Building a Magnetic Movement Through Empathy and Connection with Duane Zingale
No one wants to be the annoying person who simply pesters people until the agree to buy. That approach to marketing will only take you so far, and is not the way to create fulfilling relationships. On todayâs show I talk to Duane Zingale about his journey of breaking away from that style of pressure marketing and instead leveraging genuine relationships. Stop viewing yourself as a salesperson and start viewing yourself as a leader. Once you have built a healthy relationship with someone, you can then lead them into the best option to solve their specific problem. This leadership style of marketing will lead you to so much more success and a network of fulfilling relationships. Key Takeaways Stop focusing on getting a sale and start focusing on guiding your potential clients into what is best for them Capture their heart and then they will trust you with their minds Use The LISTEN Framework to connect truly with others and lead them into a sale About Duane Zingale When Duane Zingale is not lost in a Lego Fairytale with his two amazing daughters, he is likely to be found geeking out on crafting relationship-based marketing ecosystems with his LISTEN Frameworkâ˘. And itâs not just about building a funnel for the sake of it. Duane is emphatic about creating a connection through digital empathy. He is a Marketing Connection Consultant & Founder of the digital marketing group Legacy Catalyst. This guy loves tech so that you and I donât have to! His Mission with Legacy Catalyst is to get behind more than just a business⌠but to champion movements that will change the world one life at a time leaving a lasting Legacy. He likes to say when you leave your digital footprint today you start leaving your legacy for tomorrow. And thatâs why he believes starting a movement is the most powerful way to market and monetize your personal brand! Thatâs why he launched the âMarketing Your Movement⢠Showâ to help personal brands such as coaches & consultants lead a transformational community and earn a return on their influence. Duane helps his clients leverage automated marketing systems to create conversations in context âŚ. Using his LISTEN Framework⢠to build a relationship with potential clients through their customer journey. In This Episode [00:00] Welcome the show [04:25] Meet Duane Zingale [07:20] Humanity in business [11:22] Journey into leadership-based marketing [19:13] The LISTEN Framework [31:49] Finding your zone of genius [44:36] Creating the life you want to live [47:28] Building a self-sustaining sales funnel [52:52] Importance of an email list [55:14] Connect with Duane [55:50] Outro Quotes "Letâs make marketing human againâ [08:08] - Duane Zingale âPeople donât care about your solution until they know that you care.â [10:32] - Duane Zingale âThe best way to help somebody move forward is actually to be able to listen.â [17:16] - Duane Zingale âI have to stop giving out of my excellence to step into my genius.â [30:50] - Duane Zingale Guest Links Find Duane Zingale online Download The LISTEN Framework Today Receive a FREE PDF of âWonderfully Different, Wonderfully Meâ coloring book Follow Duane Zingale on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Follow Our Wonderful Family on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter Links Register now for the Onward Summit 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 Check out the full show notes Follow Grow Your Video Business on Instagram