Creative Courage

How to Go From Freelancer to Studio Owner With Erik Herrström

How to make the transition from being just a freelancer to becoming a studio owner? Erik Herrström, the visionary behind Studio Herrström, takes us through his journey from working as a freelancer, collaborating with giants like Spotify, Beats by Dre, Sony Music, Nike, and Google, to establishing his own studio. With over a hundred industry awards, Erik's expertise is undeniable. Yet, the path to owning a studio, building a team, and achieving business autonomy was filled with challenges, fears, and pivotal moments of growth.
In this episode, Erik shares his initial struggles with setting prices, the overwhelm of managing projects single-handedly, and his battle against imposter syndrome. This episode is packed with advice for freelancers who are tired of working alone and want to build a small team and grow their business. Erik emphasizes the power of focusing on a specific niche, the importance of asking for advice, and changing the way he sold his services, which all played a big part in making Studio Herrström the success that it is.
COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:
How to go from a mere freelancer to a studio owner who can live life on their terms.
How to overcome imposter syndrome and the fear of transitioning to something new.
Why niche specialization is key to business clarity and landing clients with ease.
How to leverage industry experience and awards to build credibility and authority.
The role of mentorship and community when growing a creative business.
LEARN MORE
Studio Herrström - https://www.studioherrstrom.com/
Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk
CONNECT
Erik Herrström on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikherrstrom/
Follow Studio Herrström on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/studioherrstrom/
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
Want a Custom Roadmap to Grow Your Creative Studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10 minutes by clicking this link: https://social.mattessam.co.uk/LObB
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

How to Stand the Flock Out With Jacob Cass

Looking to stand out from the competition and transform your creative business into something truly remarkable? Then it's time to “Stand the Flock Out!” with Jacob Cass, the brilliant mind behind Just Creative. Jacob's extraordinary path from aspiring design student to branding powerhouse, collaborating with giants like Nike, Disney, and even Jerry Seinfeld, serves as an inspiring blueprint for daring to be different.
In this episode, Jacob pulls back the curtain on how he made his mark in the world of design. He shares the engaging tale of how a pro bono gig sparked the creation of his now-signature flamingo logo and bright pink branding, setting his business apart in a crowded market.
Jacob doesn't just stop at his story. In this episode, he delves into the impact of aligning your business with your deepest values—empowerment, freedom, and curiosity. He offers golden nuggets of wisdom for creatives eager to scale, highlighting how leveraging your unique story and genuine self can establish meaningful connections with your audience and beyond.
Covered in this episode:
Strategies for creative businesses to distinguish themselves from competitors.
The importance of aligning your brand with your values and the message you wish to convey.
The backstory of Just Creative's flamingo theme and its impact on brand recognition.
Insights into Jacob's personal growth, focusing on empowerment, freedom, and curiosity.
Practical advice for creative professionals on how to use storytelling and authenticity to connect with their audience.
LEARN MORE
The Just Creative Branding Briefcase: Get access to 100's of free branding & design resources - https://justcreative.com/branding-briefcase/
Just Creative - https://justcreative.com/
Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk
CONNECT
Jacob Cass on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/justcreativedesign/
Follow Jacob Cass on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/justcreative
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
Want a Custom Roadmap to Grow Your Creative Studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10 minutes by clicking this link: https://social.mattessam.co.uk/LCBP
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

Stop Self Sabotaging and Unlock Your True Potential With Anneli Hansson

Have you ever felt like you are holding yourself back and self sabotaging your growth? In thisepisode, we deep dive into the psychology behind some of our biggest internal limitations andhow we can overcome them. Building a business that feels authentic in 2024 requiresintrospection, courage, and determination. Anneli Hansson, a brand strategist from Sweden,shares how her journey of building a social media following of over 140,000 people hasn'tbeen a smooth ride.
In this open and heartfelt conversation, Anneli delves into the essence of personal branding,the importance of vulnerability, and offers practical advice for those looking to embark on ajourney of self-discovery and personal development. Whether you're battling impostersyndrome, seeking to connect with your inner child, or curious about the future of creativity inthe age of AI, Anneli's insights provide a guide for navigating the complexities of a creativecareer with authenticity and courage.
Covered in this episode:
How to get out of your own way and stop self sabotaging your efforts for success.
Why vulnerability is a powerful tool for connecting with your ideal clients and being able toshow up authentically.
Practical steps to begin your journey of self-discovery and personal development.
Overcoming imposter syndrome and finding your unique voice.
The significance of inner child work in growing a creative business and serving clientspowerfully.
LEARN MORE
Anneli Hansson - https://www.annelihansson.com/
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
CONNECT
Anneli Hansson on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/theannelihansson/
Follow Anneli on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theannelihansson/
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
Want a custom roadmap to grow your creative studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10minutes by clicking this link - https://social.mattessam.co.uk/ep9-roadmap
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

Finding Meaningful Work as a Creative Studio

If you want your creative work to have more of a positive impact on the world, but find yourself worrying if it will pay well, then this episode is for you. In this client case study, we explore how Colin grew his studio by niching down and only helping businesses that he really cared about.
In this candid and authentic conversation, Colin shares the struggles of building an agency that did more than just pay the bills. We delve into strategies around pricing, client acquisition, and project fulfilment.
Covered in this episode:
What to do when your studio hits a business plateau.
The power of a niche and how it allows you to cut through the noise.
How to increase a client's budget without using salesy tactics.
Building a value-first approach to prospecting.
LEARN MORE
Few and Far - https://www.few-far.co/
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
CONNECT
Colin Grist on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingrist/
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
Want a custom roadmap to grow your creative studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10minutes by clicking this link - https://social.mattessam.co.uk/roadmap-few-far
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts -https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

The Success Formula with Kristy Campbell

What if there was a formula for success? One that was simple to follow and easy to implement? That’s exactly what I discovered (by accident) during this interview with Kristy Campbell from Pink Pony Creative. As I was asking Kristy how she built her following to over 200K on Instagram and secured a speaking slot at Adobe Max in front of 600 people, something became obvious…
She used the exact same strategy to achieve ALL of her goals (without even realizing it). The best part is, she was open enough to share it. In this episode, we delve into so many great topics, from raising prices to hiring a team. All of which can be achieved using the strategy that Kristy shares. If you’re looking for a simple, predictable way to achieve big things this year, then this episode is a must listen.
Covered in this episode:
The simple and easy to use formula for success.
Public speaking and how to put yourself out there more.
Growing a team and the challenges of hiring.
Branding yourself and standing out from the competition.
If you enjoyed this episode please hit the subscribe button and share it with a friend.
LEARN MOREThe Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
CONNECT
Pink Pony Creative - https://www.pinkponycreative.com/
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
Want a custom roadmap to grow your creative studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10minutes by clicking this link - https://social.mattessam.co.uk/roadmap-kristy-campbell
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts -https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

How to Fall in Love With Sales (Even if You Hate It) with Distorted

If sales and marketing feels unnecessary in your business, this episode is for you. Today, I’mjoined by Nick, Andi, and Alex from This is Distorted, an audio branding agency that hasworked with everyone from Defected Records to Dedmau5.
In this episode, we delve into the transformative shift that allowed them to fall in love with thesales process and find ways to sell high-value services without resorting to sleazy andcringeworthy tactics.
Discover how they moved away from sending traditional proposals and successfullytransitioned to a value-based pricing model. This episode is a testament to the power ofprioritizing people over profit and the transformation that comes with embracing change andpersisting through challenges.
LEARN MORE
This is Distorted - https://www.thisisdistorted.com/
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
CONNECT
This is Distorted on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-is-distorted-limited/
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
Want a custom roadmap to grow your creative studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10minutes by clicking this link - https://social.mattessam.co.uk/ep6-roadmap
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

Redefining Limits in Business with Matt Essam

What is really possible for you and your creative business? This question might be the key tounderstanding what is genuinely holding you back from reaching your true potential.In this episode, Matt Essam explores some of the key ideas and discussions taken from a client retreat in Tenerife. He shares 3 big ideas that could transform the way you run your business, including:
The power of possibility and how it holds us back.
What leadership really means and why you should care.
One of the most underrated strategies for lead generation that exists.
Let’s turn possibilities into realities! Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodesdesigned to give you the courage to create beyond boundaries.
LEARN MORE
The Four-Minute Mile Story -https://www.kevincsnyder.com/roger-bannister-how-one-person-changed-the-world/
Extreme Ownership -https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Ownership-U-S-Navy-SEALs/dp/1250183863
The Partnership Accelerator Workshop (13 February, 2024) -
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-partnership-accelarator-tickets-815391787787?aff=oddtdtcreator
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
CONNECT
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
Want a custom roadmap to grow your creative studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10minutes by clicking this link - https://social.mattessam.co.uk/ep6-roadmap
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

How to Land A-list clients using cold outreach with Kai Cheng

In this episode, we break down how our client Kai went from relying solely on referrals to having an outreach strategy that lands him A-list clients in a few months.
Topics discussed:
How to understand and address client pain points to land clients through outreach
How to use LinkedIn to uncover client secrets and build lasting rapport
How Kai landed Bently as a client with an irresistible offer
Anti Selling and the power of focusing on the client first 
Mastering follow-up without seeming needy 
The power of niching down and mastering your industry
Building a powerhouse team by combining complementary skill sets
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe.
Want help winning high value clients? Apply to work with our team here: https://social.mattessam.co.uk/ep4-work-with-us
 
LEARN MORE
Random - https://www.random.com.tw/
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
Connect with Matt Essam 
Kai Cheng on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/akaicheng/
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
Want a custom roadmap to grow your creative studio? Get yours for FREE in less than 10minutes by clicking this link - https://social.mattessam.co.uk/ep4-pod-kai-cheng
LISTEN 
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT 
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

Unleashing Success through Strategic Pricing, Productization, and Courageous Decision-Making with Robin Waite

Saying no to unfit clients, knowing and charging your worth, and productizing your services are your crucial foundation to success. Being open to reevaluating and challenging the rules you set for yourself, especially in areas like pricing, will unlock greater business potential.
Today, we're joined by the incredible Robin Waite – public speaker, bestselling author, and business coach. Discover Robin's journey from running his own design studio for over a decade to the transformative mindset shift that propelled him towards seeking business mastery.
In this episode, we unravel the secrets of productizing services, charging more, strategically positioning yourself in the market, and the importance of having enough mental capacity for decision-making. Robin shares what he learned from building a successful agency; he emphasizes the need for a scientific approach to business and understanding why clients need your services.
Covered in this episode:
How courage is about taking action towards achieving goals, despite the fear of potential consequences.
Fear of rejection and fear of failure are common barriers to taking the first step in business.
Recognising that the worst outcomes in business are not life-threatening—either not making enough money or looking less successful—can help overcome the fear of rejection and failure.
Saying no to unfit clients and making necessary changes are normal challenges for established businesses, which actually lead to growth.
Increasing prices can be a courageous decision that leads to higher profitability and better clients.
The value of learning through input and repetition for success.
Asking for help and seeking guidance from mentors or coaches is essential for personal and business growth.
I hope you find this episode valuable. If so, remember to hit the subscribe button for more content like this.
 
LEARN MORE
Robin Waite - https://www.robinwaite.com/
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
CONNECT
Robin Waite on LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/robinmwaite
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam

How To Attract Your Dream Clients with Anna Rumbold

Marketing isn’t about attracting everyone to your business. It’s about attracting your ideal clients. The clients that grow your business without growing your stress levels.
In this episode, award-winning marketing mentor, Anna Rumbold, joins us to share her blueprint for attracting the kind of clients who we enjoy working with and pay us what we deserve.
The first step is to get clear on who exactly our ideal client is. And Anna shares her insight into how we can do just that. The next step is to get in front of them. We dive into making authentic content that your ideal client stops scrolling for and that communicates the transformation you can take your ideal clients on.
We talk about having the courage to say no when we know a client isn’t the right fit. And we discuss how we can learn from the results our clients get and the feedback they leave us with.
Covered in this episode:
How to drill down and discover who your ideal client is…
…and which kinds of clients you should be avoiding.
Getting clear on why our clients buy from us.
Discovering the delayed impacts you have on your clients.
Getting over the fear of niching so you can tighten your message.
The best ways of getting useable feedback from clients.
The difference between messaging and positioning and why it matters.
Utilising the data you collect from clients to create content.
How to better communicate the transformation you take your clients through.
If you enjoyed this episode, follow Creative Courage on your favourite podcast app for more transformational content to help you thrive as a creative.
 
LEARN MORE
Apricot Social - https://www.apricotsocial.co.uk/
The Creative Life - https://www.mattessam.co.uk/
CONNECT
Anna Rumbold on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-rumbold-835ab690/
Matt Essam on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattessam/
LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LSpLIyYtBLe03JBC8LjvT
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/creative-courage/id1721515799
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Matt_Essam