Creator Toolbox: Tools, Mindset and Workflows for Content Creators – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Curious about building a successful creator business? Join us as we explore the tools, techniques, and mindsets that help content creators thrive in today's digital landscape.

In this inaugural episode, Colin Gray (Founder of The Podcast Host and Alitu) and Jacob Anderson (Head of Growth) dive into their experiences running creator businesses and discuss the challenges they face along the way.

• Insights on cutting-edge tools for content creation
• Strategies for improving productivity and consistency
• Business models that work for successful creators
• Real-world examples of creators who are doing things differently

• iPhone 15 Pro: Its impressive video capabilities and how it's being used professionally
• Filmora: A user-friendly video editing software alternative to Adobe Premiere
• DALL-E 3: The latest AI image generation tool integrated into ChatGPT
• Rode Wireless Go: A versatile wireless microphone system for creators

• Bald and Bankrupt: A YouTube creator with 4 million subscribers who proves that raw, unedited content can be incredibly engaging when you're doing something truly interesting.
• Ali Abdaal: A productivity expert and ex-doctor who has built a thriving creator business through strategic info products and coaching programs.

Regularly review and refresh your cornerstone content:

1. Identify your top-performing or most important pieces of content
2. Schedule time to update them with fresh information, improved structure, or new insights
3. Consider how you can repurpose or expand on this content across different platforms

• Filmora video editing software
• Rode Wireless Go
• Bald and Bankrupt YouTube channel
• Ali Abdaal YouTube channel
• The Podcast Host
• Alitu podcast maker app

We're just getting started with this podcast, and we'd love to hear your thoughts! What topics would you like us to cover? What challenges are you facing as a creator? Let us know by reaching out to Colin on Twitter @thepodcasthost or find him on LinkedIn (search for "Colin Gray podcast").

• Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. We're figuring this out together, and we can't wait to share more with you in future episodes!

Are you overwhelmed by the countless options for building your creator community and delivering courses? Discover the pros and cons of popular platforms and find the perfect fit for your needs!

Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson, from The Podcast Host and Alitu, dive deep into the world of community and teaching platforms. They share their personal experiences, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of various options, and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision for your creator business.

• The key features to look for in community and teaching platforms
• Pros and cons of popular options like Circle, WordPress, Thinkific, Podia, Teachable, and Mighty Networks
• How to balance community-building with course delivery
• Considerations for scaling your creator business beyond content creation
• Strategies for maintaining consistency in your content creation efforts

• Circle
• WordPress (with plugins like BuddyBoss)
• Thinkific
• Podia
• Teachable
• Mighty Networks

1. Consider your primary focus (community vs. courses) when choosing a platform
2. Evaluate the customization options and ease of use for each platform
3. Think about long-term scalability and integration with other tools
4. Don't underestimate the power of consistency in content creation
5. Be cautious when scaling your business into physical products or merchandise

Colin and Jacob discuss Seth Godin's impressive blogging streak of over 7,000 daily posts since 2002. They highlight how this consistency has helped Seth develop his thoughts, gain perspective, and build a dedicated following. Key takeaways from Seth's approach:

• Commit to a daily practice and stick to it
• Focus on the act of creation rather than perfection
• Use consistent content creation as a tool for personal growth and audience building

Colin shares their new approach to email marketing, which you can adapt for your own creator business:

1. Create an evergreen email sequence for new subscribers
2. Tailor content based on the subscriber's interests and level
3. Send two emails per week: one personalized and one automated digest
4. Keep automated digests brief and focused on recent content
5. Test and iterate based on open rates and click-through rates

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield
• Upwork - for finding freelancers and outsourcing tasks
• ConvertKit - email marketing platform

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Ever dreamed of creating your own software but thought you lacked the technical skills? In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Jacob and special guest Bran explore how AI is revolutionizing the way creators can build tools and software for their audience – even with limited coding experience!

Discover how AI-powered coding assistants like ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, and Cursor are breaking down barriers and empowering creators to turn their ideas into reality. Whether you're a content creator, educator, or entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you to leverage AI in your creative process.

• How AI tools can help non-technical creators build software
• Real-world examples of using AI to create games and productivity tools
• The current capabilities and limitations of AI coding assistants
• Tips for getting started with AI-powered development
• The potential impact of AI on the future of software development

• ChatGPT
• GitHub Copilot
• Cursor
• Visual Studio Code

1. Start with a clear idea for your software or tool
2. Use ChatGPT to create a basic project plan and break it down into steps
3. Leverage AI coding assistants like Cursor or GitHub Copilot to help write and debug code
4. Iterate and refine your project, using AI to fill knowledge gaps in design, marketing, and business setup

1. AI coding assistants can help creators overcome technical barriers and bring their ideas to life
2. Start small and be willing to learn along the way – AI tools make the learning process more accessible
3. Use AI to fill knowledge gaps in various aspects of product development, from coding to marketing
4. While AI can significantly speed up development, human oversight and verification are still crucial
5. The future of software development may involve a symbiosis between human creativity and AI assistance

• OpenAI's ChatGPT
• GitHub Copilot
• Cursor
• Visual Studio Code
• Svelte (JavaScript framework mentioned by Jacob)

Have you used AI to create software or tools for your audience? We'd love to hear about it! Email us at [email protected] and share your experience.

Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Ever wondered how a tech blogger becomes a sought-after brand ambassador? Discover the inspiring journey of Richard Tubb, from IT business owner to influential content creator in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry.

Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson sit down with Richard Tubb to explore his two-decade journey in content creation, discussing the tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that have shaped his success. From leveraging new technologies to building long-term brand partnerships, Richard shares invaluable insights for creators at any stage of their journey.

• How to evolve from a blogger to a respected industry voice
• Strategies for building and monetizing your audience
• The power of experiments in content creation
• Tips for forging valuable, long-term brand partnerships
• Tools and techniques to enhance your content workflow

• Elgato Teleprompter: A game-changer for video content creation
• Crazy Egg: Website optimization and user behavior analysis
• Adobe Premiere: Advanced video editing with new AI-powered features
• Manifestly: Streamlining team workflows with collaborative checklists

• Paul Green (MSP Marketing Edge): Blending old-school marketing tactics with modern content strategies
• John Espirian (LinkedIn Nerd): Master of relentless helpfulness and LinkedIn content optimization

Richard, Colin, and Jacob dive deep into the evolving landscape of content creation, discussing how to maintain authenticity while working with brands, the importance of valuing your audience, and the mindset shifts necessary for long-term success in the creator economy.

1. Identify an area of your content strategy you want to improve
2. Frame the change as an "experiment" rather than a permanent shift
3. Set a timeframe for the experiment (e.g., 2-3 months)
4. Communicate the experiment to your team and audience
5. Gather feedback and data throughout the experiment
6. Evaluate results and decide whether to implement permanently, adjust, or end the experiment

• Tubb Blog
• Elgato Teleprompter
• Crazy Egg
• Manifestly
• MSP Marketing Edge
• John Espirian's Website

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Feeling stuck in a creative rut? Discover how to transform your low-energy days into productive powerhouses with our latest episode of Creator Toolbox!

Join Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson as they dive into practical strategies for boosting productivity, leveraging new tools, and expanding your creator business. Whether you're a podcaster, writer, or aspiring content entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you level up your creative game.

• How to use AI-powered journaling to track your progress and overcome creative blocks
• Tips for setting up a high-quality streaming setup with tools like the Rode Streamer X
• Strategies for expanding your niche audience to a broader creator market
• The power of community platforms like Circle for engaging and growing your audience
• How to structure your content to cater to both beginners and experienced creators

• Rode Streamer X: A versatile device for streamers and content creators
• Circle: A community platform for building and engaging with your audience
• OpenAI's latest model: For summarizing and analyzing journal entries
• Voice Notes app: For quick and easy audio journaling

Colin shares insights from Jason Greystone, host of the "Always Free" podcast, who has built a successful business model around his content. Learn how Jason uses a combination of free content, courses, coaching, and mastermind groups to monetize his audience effectively.

1. Use your phone's voice notes app to record a 5-10 minute audio journal entry
2. Upload the MP3 to OpenAI's latest model for transcription and summarization
3. Review the AI-generated summary for insights and patterns in your creative process
4. Use these insights to adjust your workflow and overcome creative blocks

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• Alitu - The Podcast Maker App
• Circle Community Platform
• Jason Greystone's "Always Free" podcast

Ready to supercharge your productivity and take your creator business to the next level? Try implementing one of the strategies discussed in this episode and share your results with us using #CreatorToolbox on social media!

Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and give Alitu - our podcast maker app - a try with a 7-day free trial!

Are you running a local business and dreaming of reaching a global audience? Discover how content creation can revolutionize your reach and transform your business model!

In this episode, Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson explore the power of content creation in expanding a traditional business's reach. They dive into real-world examples, practical strategies, and tools that can help you transition from a local service provider to a global content creator.

• How to leverage content creation to expand your business globally
• Strategies for building a content funnel that attracts and converts customers
• Tools for managing newsletters and staying on top of industry trends
• Insights from successful creators who've made the leap from local to global

• ConvertKit: For automated newsletter creation and RSS feed integration
• Stoop: A dedicated app for managing newsletter subscriptions
• Omnivore: An open-source tool for managing newsletters and RSS feeds
• Sparktoro: An audience research tool for finding the best channels to reach your audience

Jacob breaks down the success story of Modern Malinois, a dog training business that expanded its reach globally through content creation:

1. Top of funnel: Creating engaging, discoverable content (e.g., YouTube Shorts)
2. Middle of funnel: Offering exclusive, opt-in content to gather leads
3. Bottom of funnel: Selling high-value products or services to a warm audience

This approach allows businesses to monetize both local and global audiences effectively.

1. Use Sparktoro to research your audience and identify the best channels for your content
2. Create top-of-funnel content that showcases your expertise (e.g., blog posts, videos, podcasts)
3. Develop a lead magnet (e.g., email course, webinar) to capture email addresses
4. Set up an email sequence using ConvertKit to nurture leads
5. Offer paid products or services to your warm audience, both locally and globally

• The Podcast Host's guide to being your own boss
• Basecamp's "Shape Up" method
• Chris Williamson's podcast for inspiration on innovative video content

Think about how you can apply the Modern Malinois method to your business. What type of content could you create to reach a global audience? Share your ideas with us on social media using #CreatorToolbox!

Don't forget to subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Check out The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Are you curious about the future of creator businesses and the power of community? Discover how community-first strategies are reshaping the creator economy!

In this episode, Colin Gray and Jacob Anderson sit down with Mathilde Leo from Circle to explore the evolving landscape of online communities, content creation, and the tools that are empowering creators to build thriving businesses.

• How community-led businesses are changing the creator economy
• Insights on transitioning from traditional content creation to community-first models
• The power of authentic connections in building a sustainable creator business
• Tools and strategies for managing and growing online communities
• The potential of community-based platforms in combating AI-generated content overload

• Circle: Community platform for creators
• Figjam: Collaborative whiteboarding tool
• Miro: Online visual collaboration platform
• TubeBuddy: YouTube channel growth and optimization tool
• Fathom AI: AI-powered meeting assistant

Damon Dominique - A multilingual content creator who successfully reinvented his brand and built a thriving community-based business. Known for his travel content, language courses, and authentic approach to sharing his experiences living abroad.

1. Identify your niche and target audience
2. Set up a community platform (e.g., Circle) to host your content and facilitate discussions
3. Create a content calendar that includes a mix of:
   • Regular community events (e.g., live Q&As, workshops)
   • User-generated content opportunities
   • Exclusive content for community members
4. Engage with your community regularly, encouraging discussions and connections between members
5. Use community feedback to inform your content creation and product development
6. Experiment with different monetization strategies within your community (e.g., paid memberships, courses, exclusive events)

• Circle's 2024 Community Benchmark Report
• The Rest is Politics Podcast
• Damon Dominique's YouTube Channel
• "Your Global Citizen" by Damon Dominique

Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to the Creator Toolbox podcast for more insights on building your creator business. Visit The Podcast Host for everything podcasting, and try Alitu - our podcast maker app - with a 7-day free trial!

Ever feel like you're spinning your wheels, constantly busy but not making real progress? In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob cut through the "hustle culture" noise to share practical, actionable strategies for true productivity as a content creator.

Discover how to:

• Implement effective time blocking and deep work techniques
• Prioritize tasks and manage your energy, not just your time
• Create a productive work environment that suits your style
• Handle distractions and maintain focus in a world of constant notifications
• Use "cycles" for better long-term planning and goal-setting

Colin and Jacob stress the importance of dedicating specific blocks of time to focused work:

• Schedule your week in advance, allocating time for different types of tasks (e.g., writing, meetings, admin)
• Use time blocking to create a structure that ensures you tackle priority tasks
• Implement "deep work" sessions by turning off notifications and focusing solely on important tasks

Your workspace can significantly impact your productivity:

• Find an environment that helps you focus - this might be a dedicated home office, a co-working space, or even a coffee shop
• Separate your work area from relaxation spaces to maintain a healthy work-life balance
• Experiment to find what works best for you - some people thrive on the energy of others working nearby

In our hyper-connected world, managing distractions is crucial:

• Be intentional about when you check emails and messages
• Use "Do Not Disturb" modes on your devices during focused work periods
• Communicate clearly with your team about your availability and focus times

Effective prioritization ensures you're working on what matters most:

• Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks by importance and urgency
• Work in "cycles" (e.g., 2-month periods) to set and review goals
• Break larger projects into smaller, achievable tasks to maintain motivation

Having a reliable system for managing tasks is essential:

• Use a task management tool that allows you to assign dates to tasks and categorize them
• Implement an "inbox" system for new tasks to be triaged and organized later
• Regularly review and update your task list to ensure it remains relevant and actionable

1. Set aside time every Monday morning for weekly planning
2. Review your goals for the current "cycle" (e.g., 2-month period)
3. Block out time in your calendar for priority tasks and deep work sessions
4. Schedule in breaks and buffer time for unexpected tasks
5. Review and organize your task list, assigning dates and priorities
6. End the week by journaling about your progress and setting intentions for the following week

• Asana - Project management and task tracking tool
• Todoist - Popular to-do list and task manager
• The Podcast Host - Colin's podcast resource website
• Alitu - Podcast creation tool (Try the 7-day free trial!)
• "Shape Up" by Basecamp - Book on project management cycles
• "Getting Things Done" by David Allen - Productivity methodology book

In this episode of the Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob discuss their journey of iterating on this very show, and how a podcast can develop and evolve over it's first few months. They delve into the process of turning it from an experimental show into a whole new content brand, and this could apply to you whether it be a podcast, YouTube channel, blog, or creator brand in general. Listeners get valuable insights on launching, iterating, and refining their content channels, even if you're not 100% sure what it plans to be in the early days. Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of building a successful creator business, including case studies from the journey of ThePodcastHost over the past 14 years, and into the new journey for the Creator Toolbox.

In this episode of Creator Toolbox, Colin and Jacob dive deep into two game-changing topics for content creators. First, they explore an innovative AI-powered system for repurposing podcast content into written articles, discussing the potential and limitations of this technology. They then shift gears to compare various camera setups for video content creation, from high-end DSLRs to user-friendly webcams, offering insights on quality, ease of use, and price points. This episode is packed with practical advice for creators looking to streamline their workflow and enhance their content quality.

• 00:00 - Introduction and catch-up
• 01:17 - AI-powered content repurposing system
• 15:52 - Tips for working with AI in content creation
• 29:15 - Importance of prompt engineering in AI
• 41:29 - Camera setups for content creators
• 41:29 - Jacob's iPhone 15 Pro setup
• 45:40 - Colin's DSLR webcam setup
• 53:21 - Affordable DSLR options
• 55:11 - Insta360 webcam review
• 56:25 - Opal C1 webcam discussion
• 59:41 - Episode wrap-up and Alitu mention

• Claude AI by Anthropic: https://www.anthropic.ai/
• Canon EOS Webcam Utility Pro: https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/support/self-help-center/eos-webcam-utility/
• Canon M50 camera
• Elgato Prompter
• Sony ZV-E10 Mark II camera
• Insta360 webcam: https://www.insta360.com/
• Opal C1 webcam: https://opalcamera.com/
• Logitech C920 webcam
• Alitu podcast maker app: https://alitu.com/