Creator Science
Jay Clouse
Creating content has never been easier. But breaking through the noise? That's gotten harder.
The only reliable way to grow as a creator is through systematic observation, experimentation, and iteration. This podcast is your weekly guide to evidence-backed strategies you can test in your own business.
Each episode features candid conversations with creators like James Clear, Ali Abdaal, Tim Urban, and Codie Sanchez. We explore what's actually working for them: the experiments they're running, the data they're tracking, and the frameworks they use to grow their audience, build trust, and increase income.
But here's what makes this different: we don't just talk about what happened. We dig into why it worked, how you can adapt it, and what constraints or anti-goals helped them stay focused and avoid burnout.
Hosted by Signal Award-winner Jay Clouse, this is a show about the business of content – approached with curiosity, transparency, and a commitment to sustainable growth.
It's growth for creators, down to a science.
The only reliable way to grow as a creator is through systematic observation, experimentation, and iteration. This podcast is your weekly guide to evidence-backed strategies you can test in your own business.
Each episode features candid conversations with creators like James Clear, Ali Abdaal, Tim Urban, and Codie Sanchez. We explore what's actually working for them: the experiments they're running, the data they're tracking, and the frameworks they use to grow their audience, build trust, and increase income.
But here's what makes this different: we don't just talk about what happened. We dig into why it worked, how you can adapt it, and what constraints or anti-goals helped them stay focused and avoid burnout.
Hosted by Signal Award-winner Jay Clouse, this is a show about the business of content – approached with curiosity, transparency, and a commitment to sustainable growth.
It's growth for creators, down to a science.
Episodes
Mentioned books
66 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 55min
#236: Mike Michalowicz – How the author of Profit First stays lean by licensing his ideas [Greatest Hits]
Mike Michalowicz, author of the bestseller Profit First, shares his innovative approach to writing and business. He licenses frameworks from his books to third parties, allowing him to run a lean operation while promoting his ideas. The conversation dives into his prolific writing process, producing seven books in eight years, and choosing the right partners for collaboration. Michalowicz also discusses the evolution of publishing models and the importance of compelling storytelling. His insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring authors and entrepreneurs alike.
52 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 52min
#260: Detailed Breakdown: Our First Offline Event (And What We’ll Do Differently Next Time)
Dive into the behind-the-scenes chaos of a bold in-person event that united an online community for the first time. Discover the highs and lows of planning, from dodging hefty hotel contracts to crafting memorable experiences. Attendee feedback provides invaluable insights for future gatherings, highlighting the importance of connection in the creator community. Jay shares lessons on budgeting and thoughtful event design, revealing a vision for expansion that could transform future events into cornerstone experiences.
31 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 32min
#259: My numbers from May 2025 [From The Lab]
Dive into an enlightening monthly performance review where key metrics and creative strategies take center stage. Discover how email automation boosted course sales, and why a shift towards YouTube is in the spotlight over social media. Jay shares personal anecdotes, including family vacations and the dilemma of an over-budget event. Plus, learn about crafting trust within community growth and the importance of personal well-being amid business challenges. It's a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamics of modern content creation!
65 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 55min
#258: Q&A: Goals for our YouTube videos, determining when a new offer is a distraction, validating a product idea, and more
This episode features Pat Gostek, a talented creator and member of The Lab community. The conversation dives into the art of setting purposeful video goals and the balance between community building and monetization. Pat and the panel discuss validation of product ideas and share smart strategies for content creation and email marketing. They also touch on the importance of adapting content to different audience segments, empowering creators to turn casual viewers into loyal customers. A treasure trove of actionable insights awaits!
182 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 44min
#257: How to Build a Creator-First Business (That Actually Lasts) | The Strategy Hour Podcast
In a captivating conversation, Jay Clouse, a creative entrepreneur and host of the Creator Science podcast, shares his journey from startup founder to newsletter mogul. He emphasizes the importance of fostering genuine connections over chasing fleeting virality. Jay delves into sustainable growth strategies, the evolving role of AI in education, and the value of community-driven learning. He also discusses his journey in building a thriving business model, advocating for consistency and audience nurturing as keys to lasting success.
150 snips
May 27, 2025 • 50min
#242: Mark Manson – Why YouTubers aren’t making more money [Greatest Hits]
Mark Manson, entrepreneur and bestselling author of 'The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck,' shares insights on YouTube success gained by amassing 2.6 million subscribers in just two years. He discusses the common pitfalls creators face in monetization and how many are ill-equipped for business. Manson emphasizes the importance of quality over views, the complexities of sponsorships, and advocates for turning channels into sustainable businesses. He also highlights the evolving dynamics of originality and innovative content in the digital landscape.
115 snips
May 20, 2025 • 44min
#256: How to Find More Time: Balancing Creative Projects, Business, and Personal Life
Dive into the whirlwind of personal and business chaos as the host juggles new fatherhood and the quest to write a book proposal. Uncover five powerful time management strategies that align energy with creativity while letting go of social media pressures. Explore innovative ideas for community engagement through in-person meetups and efficient content creation techniques. Join a candid discussion on balancing meaningful projects with everyday demands, and get inspired to rethink your approach to time management in your creative journey.
219 snips
May 13, 2025 • 34min
#255: What’s going on with Substack?
The discussion highlights the growing trend of creators joining Substack, focusing on its strengths in long-form content and community engagement. The shift to sustainable recurring revenue through newsletters is emphasized, along with the importance of user-friendly tools. They explore the fusion of online and offline communities, including plans for an in-person meetup to strengthen ties. Finally, the conversation tackles the opportunities and challenges within Substack, including onboarding hurdles and email marketing limitations.
875 snips
May 7, 2025 • 1h 14min
#254: Caleb Ralston – Meet the Secret Strategist Behind Alex Hormozi and GaryVee
Caleb Ralston, a strategist and brand builder celebrated for scaling GaryVee's TikTok from 300k to 3.5 million followers, shares his insights on content creation. He discusses the importance of being intentional with content and utilizing data-driven strategies for audience growth. Caleb also reveals his unique approaches, like the 'accordion method' for engagement and tips on hiring the right team. He emphasizes authenticity, the significance of storytelling, and how to effectively repurpose content across platforms.
127 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 52min
#253: Mark Shust – Will AI kill our course businesses?
Mark Shust, an educator who has taught nearly 15,000 developers through M.academy, dives into the impact of AI on the education sector. He argues against the fear that AI will replace educators, suggesting instead that it can enhance learning experiences. They discuss innovative uses of AI for personalized education, the rise of AI-driven content creation, and the shift in user behavior in information searches. Shust emphasizes the importance of community and authentic human connections in the face of advancing technology.
