Podcast
The Knives Monroe Podcast
Hosted by Knives Monroe · EN
How To Make a Living as a Video Creator Without Going to Film School or Spending 20 Years Trying To Figure It Out.
knivesmonroe.substack.com
knivesmonroe.substack.com
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Derek The Deal Smith Interview
Feb 19, 202501:57:11Tap to summarizeIn my latest conversation on The Knives Monroe Podcast, Derek and I peeled back the layers of entrepreneurship, real estate, and life’s raw truths. Derek isn’t just a marketing director or a real estate investor; he’s a force who transforms setbacks into stepping stones. His story is a testament to radical ownership—taking responsibility for every decision, no matter how messy.Family, Failure, and Forward MotionGrowing up in Wells Branch, Derek learned early that life was as unpredictable as it was challenging. He shared how the echoes of his father’s struggles and the bittersweet lessons from his own experiences shaped his non-negotiables. Losing a parent at a young age forced him to reframe grief into fuel. His journey wasn’t linear; it was a series of failures that, when embraced, paved the way for exponential growth.The Art of PivotingDerek’s transition from wholesaling to partnering on real estate deals wasn’t accidental—it was strategic. He explained that while lowball offers may upset some, they are often the necessary cost to seize opportunity. By refusing to let sunk cost fallacies dictate his future, he learned to pivot, recalibrate, and trust his gut. That same gut tells him when to say “enough” and focus on what truly moves the needle.Embracing the HustleIn our conversation, Derek’s passion for the hustle shone through. He broke down the mechanics of real estate investing like a seasoned MMA fighter—different moves for different situations. Whether he’s donning the investor hat, the contractor hat, or even the role of a mediator between skeptical clients and ambitious partners, he embodies the art of doing it all. His message? Focus on what you do best, eliminate what doesn’t work, and never let fear of failure stop you.A Blueprint for Creative OwnershipDerek’s approach extends beyond the numbers. It’s about creating value, building trust, and forging relationships that endure. For him, every deal is not just a transaction but a chance to learn, grow, and leave a mark. His journey has taught him that every failure, every lowball offer, and every unexpected twist is an opportunity—a lesson that propels him forward.What’s one lesson from your failures that propelled you to success?Drop a comment or send me a DM. Let’s connect and learn from one another. Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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I Want Creators To Get Paid
Jan 19, 202500:19:53Tap to summarizeI want artists and creators to get paid. I want you to make a living doing what you love. I want you to pay your bills with art money. This mission isn’t just a lofty goal—it’s personal. I’ve been there, starting from zero, wondering how to make that leap from amateur to pro. It’s a mind game and a grind, but it’s possible.We live in an age where information is everywhere, and opportunities seem endless, but many creators are still undervalued and underpaid. The system isn’t built for us to win, but that doesn’t mean we can’t. Let’s talk about what’s holding creators back and how we can change the game.The Struggles Creators FaceLet’s acknowledge the reality: creators are commoditized, expected to work for exposure or the love of the craft. The lack of business skills among creatives is staggering. So many of us don’t know how to charge fairly or negotiate confidently. We’re afraid to ask for what we’re worth because we’re just happy to get the gig.I get it. You’ve taken jobs for pennies because you wanted the experience or didn’t feel confident enough to charge more. You said yes to a $150 wedding shoot and spent the whole day working for a fraction of what you deserved. Sound familiar? That’s not sustainable. It’s time to kill the people-pleaser mindset and embrace your worth.The Starving Artist MythWe need to deconstruct the toxic stereotype of the starving artist. For too long, society has told us that making art means being broke, that monetizing your creativity is “selling out.” That’s garbage. The new generation—Gen Z and beyond—is proving that you can be creative and successful without compromising your integrity. Let’s adopt that mindset.Art and content have value. Artists deserve compensation. Full stop. By accepting scraps, you’re not just hurting yourself; you’re devaluing the entire creator economy. Stop charging $300 for projects that should be worth thousands. Believe me, there’s more than enough food at the table for everyone to eat—but you have to demand your seat.From Artist to BusinesspersonHere’s the truth: If you want to get paid, you need to think like a businessperson. This means:* Knowing Your Value: Understand the skills you bring to the table. Assess your offerings—whether it’s photography, videography, podcasting, or consulting—and price them according to time, expertise, and market demand.* Building a Personal Brand: Your personal brand is your lifeline. It’s how clients find you, trust you, and decide to invest in you. Be recognizable, undeniable, and authentic.* Creating a Clear Monetization Strategy: Stop making content for content’s sake. Have a plan. Whether it’s selling prints, offering services, or launching digital products, map out how your creativity will generate income.* Diversifying Your Income Streams: Relying on one client or platform is risky. Explore ways to make money through multiple avenues, like consulting, courses, or brand partnerships.Practical Steps to Get PaidLet’s get actionable. Here are steps you can take to start earning what you’re worth:* Shift Your Mindset: Stop seeing yourself as “just” an artist or creator. You’re a business owner.* Set a Baseline Rate: If you’re charging less than $1,000 for significant projects, rethink your pricing. Low rates hurt you and the creator economy.* Learn Business Basics: Master contracts, invoicing, and negotiation. These are non-negotiables if you want to protect yourself and thrive.* Reach Out Strategically: Use cold outreach to land clients. DM someone you admire and offer your services. Lead with value, not desperation.* Leverage Free Tools: Start with what you have. Use your phone, free editing software, and platforms like Canva to build your portfolio.The Ripple Effect of Getting PaidWhen artists get paid, it changes everything. You can focus on your craft, inspire others, and contribute to the world in meaningful ways. Money amplifies your mission. It’s not about greed; it’s about sustaining your creativity and making a larger impact.The world needs your art. Your ideas. Your voice. But none of that can happen if you’re too broke and burned out to create. Getting paid matters—not just for you, but for the people who benefit from your work.Final ThoughtsThis is the best time in history to be a creator. With direct-to-consumer platforms, tools like Patreon, and evolving technology, the opportunities are endless. But you have to take the leap. You have to believe in your worth and demand abundance.So let me ask you: What’s holding you back from getting paid for your art? Leave a comment, share your story, and let’s figure this out together. The world needs your creativity. It’s time to get paid for it.Keep a force field around your heart and your art. You deserve this. Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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Jennifer Kendall Returns
Jan 14, 202501:32:01Tap to summarizeIn my latest conversation with Jennifer Kendall on The Knives Monroe Podcast, we explored the raw reality of battling depression while trying to hold onto creativity. Jennifer shared how she masked her struggles for years, until life—and her daughter—reignited her purpose.Here are the lessons that stuck with me:* Isolation Makes It WorseJennifer thought pulling away would heal her, but it only deepened her depression. Her breakthrough came when she started reaching out, connecting, and letting others in.* Art Saves LivesThrough documenting her life, Jennifer found a way to process her emotions and leave a legacy for her daughter. Her “digital love letters” are a reminder that creativity heals.* Authenticity Is FreedomJennifer reclaimed her life by dropping the façade. She embraced vulnerability and stopped apologizing for who she is.A Challenge for You:What’s one raw, unfiltered story you can share today? Post it, and let the process guide you.Jennifer’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-love, and art. Listen to our full conversation and find your spark again.👉 More at KnivesMonroe.com Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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Why Most Content Creators FAIL
Jan 4, 202500:26:50Tap to summarizeMost creators quit, and it’s not because they suck. It’s not because they run out of inspiration or ideas. They quit because the grind breaks them.The creator’s journey is tough. If you don’t develop systems to protect your mental health and creative process, you’ll burn out. You’ll take your ball and go home. That’s why we’re here—to talk about why most creators fail and how you can ensure that’s not your story.The Brutal Truth About CreatingStarting is easy. Anyone can hit “record” or write a tweet. The hardest part of creating isn’t starting—it’s not giving up when it gets hard. And trust me, it gets hard. When the metrics aren’t in your favor, when you’re not checking the boxes, and when you forget why you started, the urge to quit creeps in.Success isn’t about raw talent; it’s about grit. I’ve seen insanely talented people give up, not because they lacked ability, but because they lacked endurance. Talent might open the door, but grit keeps you in the room. Me? I’m the self-proclaimed “mediocre mogul,” but I’m still here because I press “upload.”Longevity beats perfection in the content game. Success is a test of endurance. The longer you show up, the better your odds.Burnout Isn’t a Badge of HonorThe hustle-every-second mindset is killing creativity. Burnout isn’t proof you’re working hard; it’s proof you’re not working smart. To avoid burnout, you need systems. Maybe that means delegating tasks like editing. Maybe it’s creating a no-face YouTube channel. Or maybe it’s as simple as taking Saturdays off to recharge.Rest is as important as the work. When you set boundaries, you give yourself space to create sustainably. Remember: it’s a marathon, not a sprint. And balance—between creativity and rest—is your antidote to burnout.Comparison Will Kill Your CreativitySocial media is a distorted mirror. Scrolling through highlight reels of others’ successes can make you feel like trash. I’ve been there—envying creators like Peter McKinnon until it paralyzed me. I stopped posting, stopped creating, and let jealousy win.The only creator you should compare yourself to is who you were yesterday. Your Chapter 1 doesn’t look like someone else’s Chapter 20. Focus on your journey, not theirs. Progress isn’t a race; it’s deeply personal.Imposter Syndrome Is UniversalEvery creator feels like a fraud at some point. Even the ones crushing it. That voice in your head saying, “You don’t belong here”? It’s lying. Imposter syndrome means you care about your work. It’s a sign you’re growing.Confidence doesn’t come from thinking about being great; it comes from doing the work. Drown out the doubt by showing up, over and over again.Loneliness Is Part of the ProcessCreating can feel like an island. The people around you might not understand the grind, and that isolation can weigh heavy. But here’s the thing: solitude can either break or shape you. Your choice.Lean on like-minded creators. Find your community. Text a friend your thumbnail and ask for feedback. Share your struggles. Community is the antidote to loneliness, and it builds resilience.Chasing Metrics Is a TrapMetrics are just numbers. They don’t define your value as a creator. Sure, we all want views, likes, and subs, but chasing those alone will crush your authenticity. True success is measured by impact, not numbers. Algorithms change, but meaningful work lasts.Focus on connection, not vanity metrics. If your content resonates with one person, that’s a win. People remember how you made them feel, not your subscriber count.The Overnight Success IllusionNobody becomes an overnight success. What you see as “luck” is years of invisible work. Tony Robbins said it best: “You get rewarded in public for what you do in private.”Patience is the secret weapon of successful creators. Consistency and resilience are the real keys to growth. Keep showing up, even when it feels like nothing’s happening. You’re building a foundation that will pay off.Celebrate Small WinsYou’re too busy beating yourself up to see the progress you’ve made. Celebrate every step forward. Got 100 views on a video? That’s 100 people who watched your work. Progress compounds when you honor each milestone. Gratitude for the journey beats self-criticism every time.Your Story Is Your SuperpowerThere’s only one you, and nobody can replicate your perspective. The more you lean into your authentic story, the more magnetic your content becomes. Vulnerability builds trust. People connect with stories, not facades. Your story is your greatest asset—use it.Quitting Is the Only Guaranteed FailureIf you quit, it’s game over. But if you keep going, you have a chance to figure it out. Every failure brings you closer to success. Persistence is the ultimate edge in the creator economy.Most creators fail because they underestimate the mental toll of this process. But if you protect your peace, celebrate progress, and never give up, you’ll still be here. And one day, they’ll call you an overnight success. Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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The BRUTAL TRUTH About Being a One Person Business
Jan 1, 202500:14:30Tap to summarizeEveryone loves the idea of being their own boss. It sounds so good on paper: set your own hours, sip mimosas on a beach, and achieve financial freedom. But let’s get real—being a one-person business isn’t just about freedom. It’s about responsibility. Massive, overwhelming responsibility.Nobody talks about this. So let me break it down for you: the brutal truths of running a one-person business.You Wear Every HatThink about your last job. Maybe you were a project manager or a creative specialist. Now imagine doing that job while also being the CEO, CFO, CMO, customer service rep, janitor, and tech support. That’s your life as a solopreneur.Every. Single. Thing. Falls on you.From sending invoices to designing marketing campaigns to troubleshooting tech issues, you’re it. There are no days off, no "let me run this up the chain" moments. When something goes wrong—and trust me, it will—you’re the firefighter.And while everyone loves the fantasy of working in pajamas or from exotic locations, the reality is often grinding at midnight, staring at your screen, with a long list of unfinished tasks.Burnout Is RealWork-life balance? Forget it. Unless you’ve got killer systems in place—and let’s be honest, most of us don’t—you’re burning the candle at both ends.You will miss family events. You’ll skip weddings and birthdays for launch dates or client deadlines. Burnout isn’t just a possibility—it’s a guarantee if you don’t guard your mental health with everything you’ve got.But here’s the kicker: if you don’t show up, nothing gets done. The responsibility to "ship" falls squarely on you. That’s a heavy burden to carry day in and day out.It’s LonelyNobody’s coming to save you.When you’re a one-person business, your friend group might shrink, your support network might fade, and you’ll often feel like you’re carrying the world on your shoulders. Peers might not understand your grind, and family may wonder why you don’t just "get a regular job."This isn’t to scare you but to prepare you. Self-awareness is critical. Before you dive into solopreneurship, ask yourself: am I ready for this level of isolation? If not, build your tribe—find other solopreneurs who understand your journey. You don’t have to go it alone.Decision Fatigue Will Wreck YouAs the boss, every decision—big or small—is on you. What font should you use for your website? Should you take that underpaying gig? How do you price your services?These decisions add up. By the end of the day, you’re so drained that even picking dinner feels like a monumental task. This is why so many leaders talk about creating systems to minimize decision fatigue. Simplify wherever possible and prioritize what truly moves the needle.Why It’s All Worth ItNow that I’ve painted a pretty bleak picture, let’s talk about why it’s worth it.The high you get from a $15,000 payday or from paying your bills with money earned from your creativity is indescribable. The freedom to create, to own your wins (and yes, your losses), and to chart your own course? That’s something you can’t put a price on.If you’re wired a certain way, there’s no going back. Sure, you’ll have clients dictating some aspects of the work—that’s what they pay for. But the autonomy to build something on your terms? That’s delicious.How to Survive (and Thrive)If you’re going to make it as a one-person business, you need to do three things:* Set Boundaries Hustle culture will kill you. Protect your time and mental health like your life depends on it. Because it does. Gatekeep your peace. Use "Do Not Disturb" when you’re deep in work. Say no to anything that doesn’t align with your goals.* Prioritize What Matters Not everything deserves your attention. Hyper-focus on the tasks that grow your business—whether that’s creating content, networking, or client outreach. Let the rest go or outsource it.* Find Your People Solopreneurship doesn’t have to mean loneliness. Join communities of like-minded creators, go to networking events, or find accountability partners. Surrounding yourself with others who “get it” can be life-changing.Final ThoughtsBeing a one-person business isn’t for everyone. It’s brutal, exhausting, and lonely. But for those of us who choose this path, it’s worth every sacrifice.The freedom to create your own destiny? That’s not something you can find in a 9-to-5. If you’re ready to jump in, I’m here for you. Let’s build something real together.Until next time, keep a forcefield around your heart and prioritize what matters.—Knives Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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Wrestling, Hip Hop, and Hustle: A Conversation with Mike C Da Champ
Dec 18, 202401:39:53Tap to summarizeMike C Da Champ joins me for a raw conversation about life, music, and what it takes to never quit—even when the odds are against you.In this episode, we dive into:* The origin of Mike C’s name and his unexpected connection to pro wrestling.* How hip hop and storytelling became his escape and fuel for success.* What it means to hustle—selling CDs, building a music career, and betting on yourself.* The dark truths behind the music industry, selling your soul, and staying true to who you are.* How to create longevity as an artist by loving the process, not the paycheck.Mike’s journey is a reminder that no matter what life throws at you, you can keep pushing.Wrestling matches end, but the hustle? That’s forever.Listen to the full episode now, and let’s talk about what it really takes to build a legacy.👉 Want more? Explore storytelling, filmmaking, and creative hustle at KnivesMonroe.com. Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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The Art of Shitposting Online (Full Course)
Dec 9, 202400:36:26Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Knives Monroe unpacks The Art of Shitposting Online—a blueprint for creating consistent, engaging content without burning out. Learn how to break free from overthinking, embrace imperfection, and leverage low-effort strategies to stay creative and connected. Topics include:* Mastering the four pillars of content: words, audio, video, and photos.* Turning cringe, trolls, and randomness into powerful tools.* Building a sustainable content flow that keeps you in love with the process.Discover more at KnivesMonroe.com Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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AWSKER MATTHEW RETURNS
Nov 20, 202403:59:54Tap to summarizehydrajenah on spotifyknivesmonroe.com the knives monroe podcast:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@knivesmonroe PODCAST GEAR: https://www.amazon.com/shop/indiedarlings/list/2XBHJ3D60NL6L?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfindiedarlings_6ARXGFZ0KNWCCP08DQZS INDIE DARLINGS 2024 COPYRIGHT INDIE DARLINGS LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED #hydrajenah #knivesmonroe #podcast Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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Winner: Jashan Gill - Interview with Vero & KILO
Nov 18, 202400:53:18Tap to summarizeGet full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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The Biggest Filmmaking Failure
Jun 17, 202400:17:28Tap to summarizethe knives monroe podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PPHuIvNEgTM89PTEw5aHBTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@knivesmonroePODCAST GEAR:https://www.amazon.com/shop/indiedarlings/list/2XBHJ3D60NL6L?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfindiedarlings_6ARXGFZ0KNWCCP08DQZSINDIE DARLINGS 2024COPYRIGHT INDIE DARLINGS LLCALL RIGHTS RESERVED#failure #knivesmonroe #filmmaking Get full access to good content by Knives Monroe at knivesmonroe.substack.com/subscribe
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