Creator's Leverage Guild

In this episode, Mike and Ben break down their April earnings after the recent Amazon commission rate drops and talk through what the numbers are showing now that the dust is starting to settle.They share a full look at how April came together across Amazon onsite, Creator Connections, off-site traffic, international earnings, bonuses, YouTube income, and other revenue streams. The conversation highlights just how much the recent onsite cuts have changed the landscape and why Creator Connections and off-site growth are becoming more important than ever.Mike and Ben also talk through what creators should be focusing on during slower months, including auditing videos and campaigns, leaning harder into long-duration Creator Connections opportunities, doing deeper product research, and preparing early for seasonal shifts like Prime Day and Q4. They discuss the importance of comparison videos, category expansion, and building more durable revenue streams across YouTube and other off-site platforms.A major theme in this episode is adaptation. Rather than relying too heavily on one source of income, Mike and Ben explain why creators need to think more strategically about diversification, reinvesting profits, and using slower periods to strengthen the foundation of their business.If you are an Amazon Influencer, content creator, or product reviewer trying to navigate lower onsite commissions and figure out what still works, this episode is a real-world breakdown of the numbers, the pivot, and the next move.____________________JOIN THE COMMUNITYIf you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, & honest conversations with other serious content creators, the Creator’s Leverage Guild was built for exactly thatLearn more and join here:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Creator’s Leverage Guild⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠_____________________CHECK OUT OUR 2 NEW EBOOKS THAT JUST LAUNCHED!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The AIP Master Guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Stop guessing your way through AIP. The AIP Master Guide is your go-to resource for setup, backend navigation, Store IDs, payments, uploads, & more.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leveraging Brand Deals Playbook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Stop leaving money on the table. The Leveraging Brand Deals Playbook helps you pitch smarter, negotiate better, & turn free product offers into real paid opportunities._____________________WORK 1-ON-1 WITH MIKE AND BENGet personalized guidance on content strategy, monetization, brand deals, & scaling your creator business.• Book a 1-hour coaching call• Save with a 4-session coaching package⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Me Up!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠_________________________JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITYConnect with other Amazon Influencers & content creators, ask questions, & stay up to date on what is working right now.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠_________________________TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORSViral VueMake smarter content decisions & grow faster.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for lifeOinkTrack earnings & performance across platforms.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Try Oink here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for lifeDescriptEdit podcasts & videos faster and easier.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out Descript here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Geniuslinks: Our #1 Deeplinking Pick!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Try Geniuslinks!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠VidiQ: Our #1 pick for YouTube channel Insights!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Try VidIQ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Keepa: Makes advanced product research for AIP a breeze!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Try Keepa⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Lasso: Deeplinking for Blogs & YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Lasso⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kadence WP: Great amazing websites for blogs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Try Kadence⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.__________________________CONTACTHave a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request?Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

In this episode of the Creators Leverage Guild podcast, Mike and Ben break down the Amazon Influencer Program from the ground up, with a strong focus on beginners and those early in the process.We walk through what the Amazon Influencer Program actually is, how Phase One works, and the different ways you can apply using your existing social media accounts. We also share practical tips for getting approved and setting yourself up for success right from the start.From there, we move into Phase Two and talk through what your first three videos should and should not look like. We cover common mistakes that can slow people down early on, what Amazon is really looking for, and how to avoid unnecessary rejections.A big part of this episode focuses on the importance of volume and consistency, specifically why creating your first 100 videos matters so much. We explain how those early videos help you build confidence, improve your filming process, and better understand the metrics that actually drive engagement and conversions.We also touch on basic equipment considerations, technical tips to make filming easier, and how being part of a community can shorten the learning curve as you grow in the program.If you’re brand new to the Amazon Influencer Program or looking for clarity on what to focus on next, this episode lays out a clear path forward.________________________JOIN THE COMMUNITYIf you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, and honest conversations with other serious content creators, the Creator’s Leverage Guild was built for exactly that.Learn more and join here:⁠Creator’s Leverage Guild⁠WORK 1-ON-1 WITH MIKE AND BENGet personalized guidance on content strategy, monetization, brand deals, and scaling your creator business.• Book a 1-hour coaching call• Save with a 4-session coaching package⁠Sign Me Up!⁠_________________________JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITYConnect with other Amazon Influencers and content creators, ask questions, and stay up to date on what is working right now.⁠Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠_________________________TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORSViral VueMake smarter content decisions and grow faster.⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for lifeOinkTrack earnings and performance across platforms.⁠Try Oink here⁠Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for lifeDescriptEdit podcasts and videos faster and easier.⁠Check out Descript here⁠Affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.__________________________CONTACTHave a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request?Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike is joined by Ben for an important announcement episode that marks a major turning point heading into 2026.This conversation represents the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Mike and Ben share why they have decided to officially partner together on the podcast going forward and what that means for the future direction of the show.They talk through how their focus as content creators has evolved, including a stronger emphasis on YouTube, higher-quality video production, and building systems that support long-term growth instead of short-term wins. Ben shares insight into narrowing focus, improving production quality, and why intentional content decisions matter more than ever.A big part of this episode centers around the importance of community, accountability, and surrounding yourself with creators who are actively building. That leads into the announcement of a brand-new community that Mike and Ben have been building behind the scenes. This community is designed specifically for serious content creators who want structure, strategy, accountability, and real conversations about what is actually working.They also discuss personal goals for 2026, how to balance content creation across platforms without burning out, and why quality, efficiency, and focus will be the difference-maker going forward.If you have been following the podcast for a while, this episode sets the stage for what is coming next and why things are about to look very different, in the best way possible._________________________________JOIN THE NEW COMMUNITY:If you are looking for deeper strategy, accountability, and real conversations with other serious content creators, we have launched a brand-new community designed to support creators who want to grow with intention.You can learn more and join the community here: Creator's Leverage GuildWork 1-on-1 with Mike and BenGet personalized guidance on content, strategy, and monetization. Book a 1-hour call or save with a 4-session coaching package. Sign me Up!__________________________________JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group__________________________________TOOLS AND RESOURCES FOR CREATORS:Viral Vue. Make smarter content decisions and grow faster.Try Viral Vue here Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for lifeOink. Track earnings and performance across platforms.Try Oink here Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for lifeDescript. Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro.Check out Descript hereAffiliate link. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.___________________________CONTACT:Have a question, collaboration opportunity, or topic request?Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com

In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike is joined by tax professional and Amazon Influencer Program participant Tina McGlynn to break down essential tax strategies every content creator should understand.We dive into why creators need to start treating their content as a business early on, and Tina walks through foundational topics like Schedule C filings, LLC vs S-Corp considerations, deductible expenses, and proper record keeping.Special attention is given to navigating brand deal income, understanding the fair market value of gifted products, and avoiding common mistakes that can cost creators thousands at tax time. Tina also shares practical advice on setting up business bank accounts, tracking income correctly, and staying organized year-round.The episode wraps up with resources and guidance Tina offers to help creators confidently handle their taxes and legally minimize what they owe.Whether you’re brand new or scaling fast, this episode will help you build smarter systems and avoid painful tax surprises.Treating content creation like a business from day oneSchedule C basics for content creatorsLLC vs S-Corp considerationsDeductible expenses creators often missHandling brand deals and gifted productsFair market value of samplesSetting up business bank accountsRecord keeping and tax prep systems________________________________Download Tina's Tax Guide Here!Tax Guide Checklist________________________________💡 Work 1-on-1 with Mike🚀 ⁠Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session⁠💼 ⁠Save with a 4 Session Bundle👥 Join Our Free Facebook CommunityConnect with fellow creators, share wins, and learn strategies that work:⁠👉 Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group⁠🔥 Tools & Resources for InfluencersViral Vue – Make smarter content decisions and grow faster.👉 ⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠ — Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)Oink – Track earnings and performance across platforms.👉 ⁠Try Oink here⁠ - Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)Descript – Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro.⁠👉 Check out Descript here⁠(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)📩 ContactHave a question, collab opportunity, or topic request?Email: mike@creatorsleverageguild.com⁠

In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike is joined by fellow creator Ben Phair to unpack the strategies, wins, and lessons learned from Amazon Prime Day — and how those takeaways can help you earn more year-round.We dive deep into why some influencers thrived while others struggled during the sales event, the critical role of advance preparation, and how to create content that actually converts.Mike and Ben also share their July earnings breakdown, revealing revenue streams from Amazon Onsite, Offsite, and Creator Connections, plus how they’re diversifying their income for stability and growth.From there, we shift into YouTube growth strategies — covering practical tips for building a channel that drives long-term revenue, increases engagement, and strengthens your brand. You’ll learn how to create content that ranks, craft hooks that keep viewers watching, and use analytics to refine your approach.We wrap up with actionable Q4 planning tips so you can hit the busiest shopping season fully prepared — from gift guides and product comparisons to content scheduling and collaboration opportunities.Whether you’re an Amazon Influencer, content creator, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insider advice to maximize earnings and scale your business.🔑 Key Topics in This Episode:Lessons from Amazon Prime Day: What worked & what didn’tJuly income breakdown across multiple platformsYouTube tips for growth, engagement & monetizationCreative review techniques that stand outUsing analytics to refine your strategyBuilding a loyal YouTube communityQ4 content planning & monetization opportunities⏱ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction & guest welcome00:51 – Prime Day insights & reflections08:05 – July earnings breakdown11:12 – YouTube strategies & offsite earnings23:53 – Planning content for Q424:22 – Fitness channel ideas24:57 – Creative review techniques25:24 – YouTube strategies & tips25:58 – Gift guides & comparisons26:54 – Maximizing YouTube & Amazon28:29 – Understanding analytics30:29 – Creating engaging hooks33:45 – Building a YouTube community36:37 – Personal stories & vulnerability37:03 – The power of raw content41:38 – Taking risks & growing43:22 – Networking & support46:10 – Final thoughts & Q4 preparation💡 Work 1-on-1 with Mike🚀 Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session💼 Save with a 4-Session Bundle👥 Join Our Free Facebook CommunityConnect with fellow creators, share wins, and learn strategies that work:👉 Amazon Influencer Success Facebook Group🔥 Tools & Resources for InfluencersViral Vue – Make smarter content decisions and grow faster.👉 Try Viral Vue here — Use code STRAHL10 for 10% off for life(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)Descript – Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro.👉 Check out Descript here(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)📩 ContactHave a question, collab opportunity, or topic request?Email: levelupwithmike@gmail.com

In this solo episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike gets real about the rollercoaster of content creation — especially when your numbers suddenly drop.Pulling back the curtain on his own major income dip from April to May, Mike opens up about the emotional toll these slow months can take, and why it’s not always your fault. He breaks down the real reasons behind sudden performance declines — including shifts in Amazon’s algorithm, economic changes, and seasonal buyer behavior — while offering clear advice on how to navigate the storm.This episode is a mix of tough love, encouragement, and practical strategy. Mike shares how to manage mindset during discouraging times, why long-term brand building matters more than chasing short-term wins, and how diversifying your income streams can protect you in uncertain seasons.If you’ve been feeling stuck, defeated, or ready to throw in the towel — this one’s for you.Work 1-on-1 with Mike:⁠Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy Session⁠⁠Save with a 4-Session Bundle 🔗 Join Our Facebook Community: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/groups/amazoninfluencerssuccess/(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)Make smarter content decisions and grow faster with Viral Vue.⁠Try Viral Vue here⁠ — Save 10% for life with code: STRAHL10(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)Descript:Edit your podcasts and videos like a pro with Descript.⁠Check out Descript here⁠(Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)For all inquiries, email: levelupwithmike@gmail.com

In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies podcast, Mike sits down with Erin Lawrence — a full-time content creator, YouTube strategist, and former TV journalist who’s grown her channel to nearly 100,000 subscribers. Erin shares how she made the leap from news anchor to influencer, how she consistently lands paid brand deals, and what it really takes to build a sustainable, profitable creator business.We dive into:Erin’s transition from traditional media to YouTubeThe real numbers behind her content incomeHer system for pitching and pricing brand dealsHow she handles negative feedback and online trollsTools and workflows that streamline her content creationWhy professionalism, consistency, and high-quality content matter more than everIf you’re a creator ready to go full-time, this episode is packed with actionable tips, real talk, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to thrive in today’s digital world.Connect with Erin LawrenceYouTube: Erin Lawrence TVInstagram: @amazingintent | @erinlyycNewsletter: The Amazing Intentional InfluencerWork with Mike 1-on-1Book a single session: Click hereSave with a 4-session bundle: Click hereCreator Tools & DiscountsViral Vue: Try it here – Save 10% with code STRAHL10Descript (Edit like a pro): Click hereLiked this episode?Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a fellow creator looking to scale their income and build a long-term content business!For all inquires please reach out to me by email : levelupwithmike@gmail.com

In Episode 64 of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike returns after a period of recovery from nasal surgery & welcomes guest Kevin Thomas. At 55 years old, Kevin is taking an early retirement & transitioning from his established career into content creation. He shares his journey, insights, & practical tips for leveraging Amazon's Creator Connections. He discusses his robust workflow, the importance of prioritizing high-impact products, & the benefits of making both horizontal and vertical videos. Kevin also touches on securing free products from vendors & making informed video content decisions. This episode offers valuable perspectives for influencers aspiring to optimize their time & maximize earnings. Kevin also had a YouTube channel where he shares his tips & insights related to the AIP program. His channel, Bald Man Hustle can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@BaldManBusiness New Course Announcement! Beyond the Basics: The Creator’s Guide to Monetization & Growth CourseJoin Here!⁠https://buy.stripe.com/9AQg2Obra4vc9gY8ww⁠_________________________________________________________If you are interested in 1 on 1 coaching1 sessionhttps://buy.stripe.com/8wMcQC8eYf9Qcta9AC4 session blockhttps://buy.stripe.com/fZe3g20Mw1j01Ow5klAffiliate Links:Viral Vue⁠https://app.viralvue.com/register?fpr=mikestrahl⁠Save 10% by using code : STRAHL10Descript⁠https://get.descript.com/429ryp597xa4______________________________________________________Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a fellow creator looking to scale their income and build a long-term content business!For all inquires please reach out to me by email : levelupwithmike@gmail.com