Creator Science
Jay Clouse
Creating content has never been easier – but breaking through the noise has gotten harder. The only reliable way to grow as a creator is through observation, experimentation, and iteration.This podcast is your weekly guide to evidence-backed strategies and experiments you can apply to your business. Each episode features candid conversations with today’s top creators—like James Clear, Ali Abdaal, Tim Urban, and Codie Sanchez—sharing actionable insights to help you grow your audience, build trust, and boost your income.This isn’t just an interview podcast—it’s a deep dive into the business of content, hosted by Signal Award-winner Jay Clouse.It's growth for creators, down to a science.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 27, 2021 • 48min
#66: Chris Sutherland – How a Physics professor built an audience of 2M+ followers on TikTok (in less than two years!)
Chris Sutherland, a former collegiate physics professor, shares his journey from academia to becoming a full-time content creator with over 2 million TikTok followers. He discusses how humor and teaching skills helped him engage with a younger audience. We learn about the differences between TikTok's rapid engagement and the slower growth on other platforms like YouTube. Chris also explores the evolving landscape of creator monetization, the delicate balance of short-term content strategies versus long-term branding, and what's next for him in the crypto space.
14 snips
Jul 20, 2021 • 1h 3min
#65: Austin Kleon – 10 years as a full-time writer and stealing like an artist
Austin Kleon, a New York Times bestselling author known for his illustrated works on creativity, dives into his journey as a full-time writer. He discusses how his book 'Newspaper Blackout' sparked the idea for 'Steal Like an Artist' and reflects on the importance of timing and initiative in creative endeavors. Austin shares insights on the self-publishing vs. traditional publishing debate, noting the evolving landscape for authors. He also emphasizes the value of personal joy over wealth, advocating for a unique definition of success in life and creativity.
Jul 13, 2021 • 56min
#64: Charli Marie Prangley - Building a YouTube Channel with 200K subscribers (on the side!)
Charli Marie Prangley, Creative Director at ConvertKit and host of the popular YouTube channel CharlieMarieTV, shares her journey of balancing a full-time job with her creative passions. She discusses the importance of commitment in growing her channel to nearly 200,000 subscribers while still keeping it a side project. Charli delves into the art of delegation, the significance of maintaining quality in her content, and the mental health aspects of managing creative work. Her experiences offer valuable insights for aspiring creators navigating similar challenges.
8 snips
Jul 6, 2021 • 1h 4min
[REPLAY] #37: Ali Abdaal – Making a living as a part-time YouTuber
Ali Abdaal, a Cambridge medicine graduate and thriving YouTuber, shares his journey from a hesitant vlogger to a part-time content creator earning over £100,000 monthly. He discusses the transformative power of consistent content creation and the importance of repurposing videos. Abdaal reveals strategies for overcoming initial fears on YouTube and emphasizes the value of storytelling over high production quality. He also highlights the advantages of outsourcing editing to enhance efficiency, helping creators maintain a balance between their passions and professional commitments.
Jun 29, 2021 • 1h 2min
#63: Jay Acunzo – How to tell great stories with a professional speaker and veteran podcaster
Jay Acunzo, a seasoned author and speaker, shares his insights on the art of storytelling. He emphasizes the role of tension in crafting compelling narratives and explores various storytelling frameworks like the Hero's Journey. Acunzo reflects on his own transition from corporate life to creative endeavors, highlighting the importance of persistence and authenticity. He also discusses the impact of meaningful storytelling on audience connection and the transformative power of side projects in a creator's journey.
Jun 22, 2021 • 1h 4min
#62: Jay Clouse (interviewed by Ryan Hawk!) – Turning the tables for a crossover episode with The Learning Leader Show
Ryan Hawk, host of The Learning Leader Show, takes the mic to uncover the creative journey of Jay Clouse. They dive into Jay's motivations for podcasting and the transformative power of creativity. Commitment is hailed as the key creative skill you need today. The duo also emphasizes the importance of storytelling in sales and how it shapes consumer behavior. They explore what it means to produce 'A-plus work' that builds community, and share insights into authentic podcasting hacks. It's a heartwarming blend of personal tales and invaluable career lessons!
Jun 15, 2021 • 57min
#61: Ryan Hawk – How a top podcaster approaches outreach, interviewing, and prioritizing new projects
Ryan Hawk, a keynote speaker and host of The Learning Leader Show, shares his journey from a corporate VP to a top podcaster. He dives into effective cold outreach strategies, emphasizing the art of personalizing communications. Ryan recalls the nerves tied to interviewing high-profile guests and the paramount role of preparation in standing out. He discusses the joy of creating heartfelt connections during interviews and the importance of consistency in podcasting while balancing his creative ambitions with family life.
4 snips
Jun 8, 2021 • 51min
#60: Brennan Dunn – Combining personalization and automation for next-level email marketing
Brennan Dunn, a leading email marketing expert and creator of RightMessage and Mastering ConvertKit, shares his journey from freelancer to successful SaaS entrepreneur. He highlights the transformative power of personalization in email marketing, revealing how it boosts revenue and enhances audience experience. Brennan discusses the importance of automation and customer insights in evolving marketing strategies, emphasizing the need for alignment between services and client needs. His insights are perfect for anyone looking to elevate their marketing game.
Jun 1, 2021 • 52min
#59: Mignon Fogarty – Making the case for shorter podcasts with a Podcasting Hall of Famer and New York Times best-selling author
Mignon Fogarty, the founder of the Quick and Dirty Tips network and creator of the beloved Grammar Girl podcast, shares her journey from technical writing to podcasting success. She discusses the evolution of Grammar Girl, emphasizing the benefits of shorter episodes to engage listeners. Mignon explores the challenges of podcast production, collaboration in content creation, and her passion for innovative learning. She also reflects on navigating the shifting media landscape and the importance of maintaining content quality while fostering audience relationships.
May 27, 2021 • 48min
BONUS: Freelance to Founder
In this engaging conversation, web designer Keegan Lanier shares his journey from side hustler to aspiring full-time entrepreneur. He grapples with the uncertainties of relying on referrals and seeks strategies to attract more local clients. The hosts guide him through critical tactics, emphasizing the importance of networking and becoming a local expert. They also discuss the benefits of monthly payment plans for financial stability and the challenges in finding reliable talent. Keegan's quest for growth and sustainable business practices inspires listeners on their own freelancing journeys.
