Reflecting on 25 Episodes of The Business of Video Production Podcast
Key Lessons for Your Success
Hitting episode 25 of The Business of Video Production podcast feels like a milestone. It’s an opportunity to reflect on key takeaways and actionable insights from each episode—ideas that can help you grow your video production business.
As you read through these lessons, I encourage you to think about what resonates most with your current challenges. Take a moment to note any topic that stands out, and commit to applying at least one idea to your business.
Episode 1: The Business of Video Production
This was the foundation episode—an introduction to going all in on your production business. I discussed the 80-20 rule, emphasizing how the top 20% of video production companies win 80% of the success. The key lesson? Commit to being in that 20%. Invest time in learning the processes that successful businesses follow, and make success a non-negotiable goal.
Episode 2: The Business of Video Production Framework
I introduced the framework I use for coaching video production business owners. This structured approach helps identify weak areas and strengthen marketing, sales, and operations. If you’d like a copy of the framework, head over to ryanspanger.com/framework.
Episode 3: Building Your Team
Delegation is essential. I shared my transformational experience of hiring editors and freeing myself from post-production. Your team isn’t just employees—it includes contractors, mentors, and even your support network. Who do you need to bring into your circle to take your business to the next level?
Episode 4: Leveraging Your Production Company to Build Wealth
A common mistake? Taking money out of the business too soon to invest elsewhere. I learned that reinvesting in your own business—rather than stocks or real estate—early on provides the best ROI. Once your business is solid, you can then diversify.
Episode 5: Developing an Authentic Sales Process
Sales can feel uncomfortable for many videographers, but a natural and ethical approach is key. I spent time refining a process that worked for me—one based on understanding clients’ needs rather than pushing for a sale. Find a method that aligns with your personality and values.
Episode 6: Surviving Quiet Times in Your Business
Periods of slow work offer valuable feedback. Instead of pushing harder on what’s not working, take a step back. Quiet times can highlight weaknesses in your business model—use them to refine your strategy rather than panic.
Episode 7: Should You Get Off the Tools?
Many business owners feel pressure to remove themselves from production entirely. But if you love shooting or editing, you don’t have to give it up—just structure your business so you can still enjoy hands-on work while scaling.
Episode 8: How to Win More Corporate Video Work
Corporate clients value problem-solvers over videographers. Your ability to understand their needs, offer solutions, and create a seamless process will set you apart from competitors.
Episode 9: The Sales Thermostat
Do you slow down after hitting a sales goal? This “thermostat effect” holds businesses back. Instead, double down when things are going well, using momentum to keep growing rather than coasting.
Episode 10: How to Get Things Done
Success isn’t about having great ideas—it’s about execution. I shared my personal system for staying productive and ensuring consistent progress in business.
Episode 11-12: To Freelance or Not to Freelance?
Freelancing isn’t inferior to running a company—it’s a business model. Master freelancing before transitioning to a larger business model, or you’ll bring poor habits into your next stage of growth.
Episode 13: Optimizing Production Company Expenses
Many businesses waste money on unnecessary tools and services. Regularly audit your expenses and cut what doesn’t add real value.
Episode 14: Why You Don’t Have the Production Company You Want
I explored six common mistakes that hold video businesses back. One major takeaway? Clarity and strategy outweigh effort alone. Working hard in the wrong areas won’t get you where you want to be.
Episode 15: Regrets and Lessons Learned
Regret can be a powerful teacher. Instead of dismissing past mistakes, analyze them to ensure you don’t repeat them.
Episode 16: To Niche or Not to Niche?
Niching can be powerful, but only if you truly commit. Instead of forcing a niche, let it emerge naturally through experience and client demand.
Episode 17: The Perfect Business Model for a Production Company
I shared the model I built over 25 years—high margin, low stress, and aligned with my strengths. Your perfect model is one that fits your goals and lifestyle.
Episode 18: The Inner Game of Video Production
Mindset is just as important as strategy. Success comes from aligning your thoughts, habits, and confidence with your business goals.
Episode 19: A Truth Everyone Believes, But You Refuse To
I intentionally left this episode’s details vague to spark curiosity—listen back if you missed it!
Episode 20: Personal Branding for Videographers
Many production companies try to appear bigger than they are. Instead, leverage your personal brand to stand out and create trust with potential clients.
Episode 21: Cultivating a Service Mentality
Great service is rare. Focus on making clients’ experiences so seamless that they wouldn’t think of working with anyone else.
Episode 22: Know Your Numbers
Tracking key business metrics allows you to identify trends, adjust strategies, and make informed decisions instead of guessing.
Episode 23: A Framework to Improve the Quality of Your Work
High production quality still matters. Clients notice professionalism, storytelling, and attention to detail—don’t undervalue this.
Episode 24: How to Become Confident
Confidence comes from evidence—successful projects, positive testimonials, and strong case studies. Collect proof of your expertise to build quiet, unshakable confidence.
What’s Your Next Step?
Reflecting on these 25 episodes, I hope you found insights that resonate with your journey. If one topic stood out, take action. Revisit that episode, apply its lessons, and implement small changes that will lead to big results.
If you’re serious about growing your video production business, I invite you to take the next step with me. Through my coaching, I work closely with production business owners to refine strategy, streamline operations, and win more high-quality clients.
👉 Visit ryanspanger.com/coaching to see if they way I work resonates with you.