Creator's Leverage Guild

In this episode, Mike & Ben break down their Prime Day results, current Amazon earnings, and what’s been working as they continue leaning harder into product selection, storefront audits, & quality over quantity.Ben shares how he hit a record $1,800 day, including $1,500 from Creator Connections, despite only posting 3 videos this month. Mike also shares how a recent storefront audit helped double results, why he’s averaging around $450 a day, & how he’s now tracking toward what could be a personal-best month. The conversation covers strong offsite performance, creator rewards progress, & why regular audits of storefronts, links, & ASINs can make a much bigger difference than most creators realize.Mike & Ben also talk about preparing for the next Prime Day & Q4, thinking seasonally 2 to 3 months ahead, staying consistent with uploads, & why many creators miss opportunities simply because they are not planning far enough in advance.The second half of the episode shifts into a much more personal conversation. Ben opens up about separation, divorce, & depression, while Mike shares some of what he has been dealing with physically and mentally through medical issues, withdrawal from pain medication, and past personal loss. The conversation is honest, vulnerable, & centered around pushing forward through dark seasons, giving yourself grace, leaning on community, & doing what you can with the capacity you have each day.If you are an Amazon Influencer, content creator, or entrepreneur trying to improve your results while also navigating real life behind the scenes, this episode is both a practical strategy conversation & a reminder that you do not have to carry hard seasons alone.____________________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 Keepa⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Affiliate 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, Mike and Ben break down one of the most important topics for long-term success in the Amazon Influencer Program: staying consistent without burning yourself out.Consistency looks different for everyone, and the key is finding a pace you can realistically maintain long-term. We talk about what burnout actually is, why it happens, and how it often shows up as creative fatigue rather than laziness. Whether it’s pushing too hard, reviewing products you’re not excited about, or feeling discouraged when earnings don’t match effort, burnout can slow down even the most motivated creators.We share practical ways to reduce decision fatigue, including sourcing products you already own, checking your Amazon order history, and focusing on items you have real experience with. These types of videos are often easier to create and more valuable to viewers because they come from genuine use.We also discuss how to use your performance data to guide your decisions. Instead of guessing, you can look at your reports, identify which videos and product angles are working, and replicate those patterns. This helps increase your dollars per video over time and shifts your focus toward quality and intentional content instead of chasing volume.Another major theme in this episode is understanding the natural ups and downs of earnings. We talk about seasonality, why slower months happen, and how planning ahead for major events like Prime Day and Q4 can make a significant difference in your long-term results.We also cover the importance of focusing your efforts instead of trying to grow on every platform at once. For most creators, the best move is to establish a strong foundation on Amazon first, then expand to platforms like YouTube and Facebook once you have momentum.Whether you’re feeling burned out, stuck, or just trying to find a better rhythm, this episode will help you build a more sustainable and effective content strategy.________________________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 Creator’s Leverage Guild Podcast, Mike and Ben break down the real-world mechanics of free samples, brand collaborations, and how creators can turn those opportunities into meaningful income without burning bridges or underselling themselves.They kick things off by sharing their early experiences with free samples, including the excitement of those first offers and how their approach has evolved as their platforms and leverage have grown. The conversation moves into common pitfalls creators face when relying too heavily on unpaid collaborations and how to recognize when it is time to shift from “free product” to paid partnerships.Mike and Ben dive deep into outbound brand outreach, including how to structure professional emails, how to communicate value, and how to confidently discuss budgets and collaboration fees. They also cover why professionalism, clarity, and consistency matter so much when dealing with brands long-term.The episode also touches on important topics like FTC disclosures, tax considerations around free products, and why understanding the business side of content creation is just as important as filming great videos. They explain how proper setup on YouTube, smart SEO practices, and deep linking tools can dramatically improve performance and earnings.This conversation is packed with practical advice for creators at every stage, whether you are just starting to receive samples or you are actively negotiating paid brand deals and looking to stack multiple income streams more effectively.If you want a clearer framework for handling brand collaborations, maximizing free samples, and building sustainable creator income, this episode is a must-listen.________________________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 Jen, a full-time content creator and photographer from Alberta, Canada, to break down how User Generated Content (UGC) actually works and how creators are getting paid without relying on a large following.Jen shares her journey from being a grade one teacher to building a full-time income through photography, UGC, and brand partnerships. We talk through what UGC is, how it differs from traditional influencer marketing and the Amazon Influencer Program, and why it has become one of the most accessible ways for creators to monetize their skills.The conversation dives into how Jen landed her first UGC opportunities, what brands look for when hiring creators, and how to position yourself professionally even when you’re just getting started. Jen also walks through her experience using Fiverr for UGC work, including how response rates, reviews, and communication directly impact long-term success.We also explore the travel side of UGC, where Jen shares how she’s exchanged content for luxury accommodations, how to pitch hotels and travel brands, and what creators need to understand before trading content for experiences.If you’re interested in UGC, freelancing as a content creator, or using content creation to unlock paid brand deals and travel opportunities, this episode is packed with real-world insight and actionable advice.Topics covered in this episode:What UGC is and how it differs from influencer marketingUGC vs the Amazon Influencer ProgramHow to get started with UGC as a beginnerCreating content brands are willing to pay forUsing Fiverr for UGC work and brand outreachBuilding a portfolio without prior brand dealsNegotiating rates and understanding your valueWhy response rate and communication matterUsing UGC to unlock travel and hotel opportunitiesBalancing UGC with other income streams_______________Follow along with Jen's Journey!Travel with Jenny JoUGC with Jenny Jo_______________💡 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 lifeDescript – 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

🎙️ Basic Influencer Strategies PodcastReconnecting, Reflecting, and Strategies for Success in 2026In this episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike returns after a five-month hiatus to reconnect with the community and share an honest update on where he’s been including a challenging health setback and the recovery journey that followed.Mike reflects on his 2025 wins, highlighting how his earnings continued to grow even during a season of reduced content creation. He breaks down the importance of diversifying income streams, leaning into offsite content, and using data-driven tools like Viral Vue and Oink to work smarter, not harder.The episode also lays out what’s ahead for the podcast and community in 2026, including upcoming guests, deeper strategy-focused episodes, and new resources designed to help creators at every level scale sustainably.We wrap up with practical advice on time management, intentional collaborations, and building systems that support long-term success without burnout.Whether you’re just getting started or refining an established creator business, this episode sets the tone for a focused and profitable 2026.A personal update and return to the podcastLessons learned during an unexpected breakGrowing earnings with less contentDiversifying income streamsThe power of YouTube and offsite earningsUsing tools and data to work smarterPlanning sustainable systems for 2026💡 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.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, Mike returns from a short hiatus with life updates and a powerful guest interview featuring Claire, a data analyst turned Amazon Influencer. Claire brings her expertise in statistics, market research, and creator behavior to the conversation, breaking down what actually moves the needle for influencers.Claire shares key findings from her influencer surveys, including:📊 Video quality vs. quantity — What matters more?🎯 Thumbnails that convert — Why they play a bigger role than you think⏱️ Time spent on videos — Is effort really correlated with success?🤝 The role of community — How creator relationships affect your resultsWhether you’re new to influencer marketing or trying to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with data-backed insights to help you grow smarter and faster.🔗 Guest Links — Connect with Claire💼 Work with Claire / Shop her storefront: stan.store/datacoachclaire📬 Free Newsletter 📧 Email: DataCoachClaire@gmail.com💡 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 VueMake 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.)DescriptEdit 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 episode of the Basic Influencer Strategies Podcast, Mike sits down with Kade Peterson, a leading content creator and co-founder of Viral Vue. Kade shares his journey from Amazon private label selling to rebuilding a multi-platform brand after losing his main TikTok account. You’ll learn how Viral Vue helps creators make smarter, faster decisions and why getting uncomfortable is key to long-term success.We talk about Kade’s start in Amazon and content creation, how Viral Vue was born and how it’s helping influencers, and tips for new and aspiring creators. Kade also dives into how to overcome challenges, stay motivated, manifest big goals, and why stepping out of your comfort zone leads to real growth. We also cover strategies for expanding beyond Amazon to diversify your income streams, new features and future plans for Viral Vue, and his final encouragement for creators working to build sustainable businesses.This episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world strategies for content creators at any level.Connect with Kade:Instagram: @kade_petersonYouTube: Kade PetersonJoin Our Facebook Community:Amazon Influencer Success CommunityWork 1-on-1 with Mike:Book a Single 1-Hour Strategy SessionSave with a 4-Session BundleCreator Tools & Affiliate Links:Viral Vue: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