We had an awesome time at Craft + Commerce 2025 — seriously, one of our favorite events of the year. The sessions were packed with smart, no-fluff advice that actually felt doable.

Instead of big vague ideas, we walked away with real strategies we’re excited to try (and share). Here are a few lessons that stuck with us — starting with how to introduce yourself without sounding awkward.

2. Keep It Conversational and Contextual

Your self-introduction should feel like a friendly conversation, not a job interview. To make it work:

• Avoid jargon and buzzwords – explain it like you’re talking to a 6-year-old
• Be intriguing, not exhaustive – make people want to learn more
• Tailor your intro to the context or audience (networking event ≠ social media bio)
• Confidence > perfection – how you say it matters as much as what you say

3. Use It Everywhere—Strategically

This simple intro isn’t just for saying aloud. It should show up in:

• Your website, social bios, and email signature
• Business cards, course names, book titles, or landing pages

Tips:

• Use “your” (instead of “their”) in marketing for a personal touch
• Experiment with variations to see what resonates
• Anchor yourself around a specific result or niche phrase to own in your space

The Growth System Behind 6-Figure Newsletters with Shane Martin

1. Paid Growth Works—With the Right Foundation

Contrary to the myth that only massive newsletters benefit from ads, paid acquisition can work at any size—if the fundamentals are in place. Case in point: Sahil Bloom scaled from 130k to 1M subscribers using paid growth and saw:

• Mid five-figure monthly revenue
• Multiple six-figures in business income
• Millions raised for an investment fund
• A New York Times bestseller with 50k copies sold in week one

The key? Treat your newsletter like a real business asset, not a hobby.

2. Build a Reinvestment Loop to Scale

The most sustainable strategy is the reinvestment growth loop:

1. Acquire subscribers through paid channels
2. Monetize them via premium tiers, affiliates, products, or sponsorships
3. Reinvest a portion of revenue into more subscriber acquisition
4. Repeat—and scale gradually over time

This approach allows you to grow predictably while maintaining profitability.

3. Know Your Numbers and Monetization Levers

Before spending on growth, you need clarity on:

• Revenue strategy (e.g., $9/mo tier, $1000 course, $200/year membership)
• Estimated value per subscriber (e.g., $83k for 30k list = ~$2.77 per subscriber/month)
• Conversion rates (e.g., 1% for premium, 0.8% for community)
• Key costs (average $2 per subscriber)
• Retention length (avg. 16 months)

These figures let you calculate ROI and adjust your strategy. Expect a ramp-up period, and start small before scaling.

One Million… Nine Bucks at a Time with Liz Wilcox

1. A Simple, Low-Cost Offer Can Scale Big

The core product is incredibly simple: a $9/month membership that delivers weekly email templates. Despite no ads or complex funnels, the business:

• Grew organically from 30 sign-ups in 24 hours to 4,500 members
• Reached nearly $1.4 million in total revenue, with $1.1M earned in just the last two years
• Was built on a single compelling offer (“Can I have $9?” email), proving that clarity beats complexity

This shows the power of solving a specific pain point with a laser-focused, low-friction offer.

2. Growth Was Fueled by Smart, Sustainable Tactics

Several creative and intentional strategies supported EMM’s growth:

• Public goal-setting (e.g., “100 members in 30 days”) to build accountability and community engagement
• A generous affiliate program (50% recurring commission, lifetime cookie) that incentivizes long-term sharing
• A “Costco-style” $108/year pass that bundles access to all workshops, creating perceived value and driving upsells
• The “Drake Method” for distribution: omnipresent brand building via 300+ podcast appearances, speaking, and content

These efforts kept marketing organic, community-driven, and trust-based.

3. Lifestyle and Business Aligned by Design

Beyond revenue, EMM delivered a lifestyle transformation:

• Replaced unpredictable $20k client work with reliable recurring income
• Now follows a calm work routine: starts at 1pm, Fridays off, flexible schedule
• Open calendar with minimal commitments
• Additional income from YouTube, workshops, and digital products

This is a prime example of designing a business model that not only scales—but sustains the creator’s ideal life.

Supercharged, Not Replaced: The Creator’s Edge in the Age of AI by Nathan Barry

1. AI Will Empower Creators, Not Replace Them

AI is a force multiplier, not a replacement:

• AI will take over repetitive, time-consuming tasks, freeing creators to focus on what matters—human connection.
• Content production becomes faster: e.g., turning a podcast into a polished article with AI support.
• Rather than eliminating creativity, AI is an amplifier of human storytelling and originality.

This aligns with a broader trend: tools are evolving to support creators, not supplant them.

2. Email Is Evolving, Not Dying

Email remains the backbone of digital communication, but its experience is about to change dramatically:

• Creation: Voice dictation and AI-generated emails will reduce reliance on typing.
• Delivery: Despite tech shifts, email protocols will persist as a reliable, open format.
• Consumption: AI will personalize how we read and engage:
  • Newsletter → AI podcast summary
  • Articles → Custom summaries in preferred tone or length
  • Dynamic formatting tailored to user preferences

This paints a future where email becomes more intelligent, adaptive, and experiential.

3. Creator Businesses Will Dominate the Economy

Every business is becoming a creator business—and the shift is already visible:

• Creator marketing is becoming the default strategy, not the niche
• Even celebrities are adopting creator tools and tactics, launching newsletters and engaging directly with audiences (e.g., Dua Lipa, Tom Brady, Morgan Freeman)

Showit’s response? A two-pronged strategy:

• Double down on connecting people (real relationships in an AI-heavy world)
• Build technology that adapts with creators (flexible, AI-integrated platforms)
  This vision highlights that adaptability and authenticity are the defining traits of modern businesses.

How I Used Lean Learning to Scale to 1,000,000 Subscribers (Twice) with Pat Flynn

1. Lean Learning = Do Less, Learn More

Pat Flynn’s new philosophy, captured in his book Lean Learning, centers on reducing overwhelm and focusing on deliberate, focused progress:

• We live in a “buffet line of information,” but more isn’t better—selectivity is power.
• Focus on micromastery: pick one small element (like storytelling, editing, or scripting) and master it deeply.
• Replace hustle with intentional reps—more experiments, tighter feedback loops, and fewer distractions.

He demonstrates this through how he entered the Pokémon content world as a novice, leaned into what worked (e.g., how-to videos), and quickly built authority and results.

2. Reuse Expertise, Add Value Creatively

Even in unfamiliar territory (Pokémon), Pat succeeded by reapplying what he knew from entrepreneurship:

• Created how-to videos with content frameworks and catchy phrases (“bad binder behavior”)
• Analyzed retention graphs to learn what kept audiences watching—and adapted
• Secured brand partnerships (e.g., Vault X) and generated significant income through affiliate links and custom co-branded products

His viral video success came not from being the most knowledgeable, but from creative storytelling, clarity, and audience-first thinking.

3. Iterate, Experiment, and Tell Better Stories

Pat’s process reveals the power of story-driven experimentation:

• By analyzing what works (e.g., high retention on binder or challenge videos), he created new “buckets” of content (like 24-hour challenges)
• One video combining binders + challenge format hit 11M views, earned 80,000+ subscribers, and $56,000+ in revenue
  
• He applied the Save the Cat storytelling technique to build emotional connection in videos—ensuring audiences root for the creator from the start

All of this stems from lean iteration, not mass content. It's about refining based on feedback, learning what resonates, and leaning deeper into what works.

The Creator’s Guide to Sustainable Productivity with Nisha Vora

1. Productivity Isn’t About Doing More—It’s About Doing What Matters

Nisha redefined productivity not as how much she got done, but how intentionally she worked:

• She used to work from 5am to 8pm, constantly hustling—yet still felt unfulfilled, burned out, and physically wrecked.
• Despite outward success (rising social media, a cookbook deal), her health deteriorated, and the work didn’t feel worth it.
• Now, with fewer hours, she’s happier, healthier, and more successful—launching a paid subscription, joining NYT Cooking, and winning industry accolades.

Sustainable productivity is about working on what matters—and leaving space to feel well while doing it.

2. Her One-Page Weekly System Doubled Output and Cut Stress

Nisha’s powerful but simple productivity system lives in a single Google Doc and follows three steps:

• Brain Dump

List everything on your mind for the week—projects, meetings, errands, creative work, personal items. This mental purge improves focus and sleep.

• Evaluate Tasks with 4 Key Questions

For each task, ask:

• Does this support my physical or mental health?
• Is this truly valuable for my business?
• Do I actually enjoy it?
• Should I be doing this, or can I delegate?

She uses emojis to tag tasks and makes data-driven decisions (e.g., YouTube → 40x more traffic than Instagram = priority). She outsources even high-leverage tasks like operations management, which doubled her product revenue.

• Time Blocking with Non-Negotiables First

Calendar the week starting with wellness rituals and business drivers, not random to-dos. Add buffer time between tasks and let go of anything you can’t fit realistically.

3. Purpose and Personal Energy Are Her New Metrics

Instead of chasing productivity for its own sake, focus on:

• Energy-giving habits (walks, sleep, family dinners)
• Tasks aligned with joy and impact (blog posts you love, not just high-performers)
• A workweek that feels restorative, not draining

The Power of Being Real: The Surprising Secret to Winning Hearts and Unexpectedly Growing Your Business with Sam Vander Wielen

1. Authenticity Isn’t a Strategy—It’s the Foundation

Being real is not a growth hack. It’s not about leveraging vulnerability for clicks, but rather:

• Showing up as your whole self—mess and all—because your truth builds trust.
• Sharing behind-the-scenes realities, not just curated highlight reels, even when the story is raw or unresolved.
• Vulnerability, when rooted in sincerity, becomes a magnet for genuine connection.

Her life story—brain surgery, caregiving through cancer, profound grief—became a bridge to community, not because she marketed it, but because she chose to tell the truth of her journey.

2. Storytelling Is What Makes Content Stick

Sam’s audience grew—not just in size but in depth of engagement—because she:

• Told stories, not just gave tips, even while selling legal templates
• Shared experiences that seemed unrelated—like being pantsed at a stadium or hiking in Patagonia—but turned them into relatable lessons
• Used everyday moments to connect emotionally and teach something meaningful

Result: 48,000+ email subscribers, strong community loyalty, and a book launch that her audience rallied behind.
Her formula: lead with story → relate to your audience → teach through your lived experience.

3. Connection > Perfection

Your audience doesn't need you to have it all figured out. They want:

• Someone who shares how they think, not just what they know
• Leadership rooted in transparency, reflection, and human relatability
• A reason to stay connected that goes beyond surface-level education

Sam turned trauma, uncertainty, and everyday reflections into content that resonated because it felt honest, relevant, and human—not polished or performative.

Building a personal brand and opportunities with Chris Donnelly

1. A Personal Brand Is Your Greatest Leverage

Your personal brand travels with you—across ventures, industries, and platforms:

• He rebuilt after a major business collapse by posting every day on LinkedIn, turning visibility into leverage.
• Clients like Bugatti and Aston Martin came from organic posts—without outreach or ad spend.
• His commitment led to 1.1M+ followers and being the #1 most viewed person on LinkedIn globally, outpacing even Obama and Gates.

Lesson: Treat content as a strategic asset, not just marketing. Your personal brand introduces you before you enter the room—and multiplies your opportunity surface area.

2. Think Like an Entrepreneur, Not Just a Creator

What separates hobbyists from high-leverage builders:

• Choose scalable business models (cohorts, async courses, newsletters) over unscalable ones (1:1 coaching).
  Focus on distribution first—his $10M/year Creator Accelerator business has no sales team; content does all the selling.
• Use platform insights: LinkedIn drove nearly all conversions; TikTok had reach but zero commercial return.
• Systematize content:
  
  • Educational posts = growth
  • Personal stories = trust
  • Webinars = conversion

The effort-to-equity formula: the same skills can build a service business or a digital empire—choose models that compound.

3. Deplatform, Automate, and Scale Through Systems

The key to turning audience into business: own the relationship and build infrastructure:

• Deplatform from social media—Chris’s newsletter drives 86% of sales and 89% of webinar signups.
• Use lead magnets, landing pages, and welcome surveys to segment and serve.
• Build proprietary systems—like his Play framework or AI trained on his own content—to multiply reach.
• Delegate ruthlessly: Chris only uses social media on Monday afternoons; his team handles the rest.
• Leverage AI to train your team and productize your knowledge—information isn’t the product anymore, outcomes are.

Outcome-driven education, delivered at scale with systems and community, is the new creator frontier.

Succeed on Social: The Creator’s Playbook for Virality, Conversions, and Revenue with Tori Dunlap

1. Serve First, Then Sell—With Content That Connects

The foundation of modern social strategy is value-first content:

• Serve before you sell—earn attention by being helpful, inspiring, or entertaining
• Know exactly who you’re speaking to—broad messages miss the mark; specificity drives resonance
• Don’t chase every platform—focus where your audience lives, and tailor your content accordingly

Great content = Aspirational + Educational + Entertaining. Hitting all three is the gold standard.

2. Hook, Story, CTA—The Formula for Engagement

Creating content that performs requires a proven structure:

• The first 3 seconds are critical—grab attention fast
  • Use on-screen hooks since most viewers watch without sound
  • Reverse the joke: deliver the punchline first, then explain
• Include a clear CTA (call-to-action) on screen
• Optimize for discovery—treat platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest as search engines
• Use storytelling to build trust:
  • Overcoming adversity
  • Celebrating community wins
  • Highlighting your mission or values

These strategies create emotional investment—audiences don’t just watch, they root for you.

3. Diversify Revenue and Own Your Funnel

To monetize effectively, creators need a balanced revenue engine:

• Aim for a 60/40 revenue split:
  1. Internal: Products, courses, coaching, events
  2. External: Brand deals, speaking, affiliate marketing
• Use a smart funnel strategy:
  1. Social post → attract attention
  2. Valuable content → earn the follow
  3. Follow → convert to email via freebies/quizzes
  4. Email funnel → nurture with 5 emails addressing specific needs
  5. Sale → offer the right product at the right moment

Building in Public in 2025 – WTF does it actually mean with Amanda Ghetz

1. Building in Public Means Sharing the Learning Journey, Not Just Success

The heart of building in public is inviting others to grow with you—not just celebrating wins, but:

• Showing your process, not just polished outcomes
• Being transparent about challenges, doubts, and pivots
• Creating a space where people don’t just watch your journey—they feel part of it

This mindset builds trust, relatability, and loyalty, because people aren’t following a guru—they’re walking alongside someone real.

2. Different “Hero” Styles Let You Build Connection Your Way

You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room to build in public—choose the role that fits your style:

The 3 Types of Relatable Heroes:

• Lighthouse: Guides from a distance
  • Leads by example and challenges (e.g., Sahil Bloom’s 100 ice baths)
• Flashlight: Shares insights and clarity
  • Educates quietly in the background (e.g., James Clear)
• Porch Light: Builds warmth and intimacy
  • Welcomes others into the conversation (e.g., Erica Schneider)

There’s no one right way—just the version that matches how you connect authentically.

3. Use the PORCH Framework to Build Community Through Storytelling

The PORCH method is a practical roadmap for building in public:

• Present your reality → Be honest, skip the filters
• Open the door → Encourage interaction, ask questions, reply to DMs
• Reflect, don’t just report → Go deeper than metrics—what did it feel like?
• Connect the story → Use the “Stop → Story → Solution” format for posts
  Help others → Highlight their work, build human connection

Real impact comes from making others feel seen, and that’s what scales community and business.

The Authenticity Advantage: Why Being Irreplaceably Human is Your Greatest Asset in an AI World with Dara Ladjevardian

1. In an AI-Flooded World, Authenticity Is Your Competitive Edge

As AI rapidly drives down the cost of content creation—video generation quality soared in 2023-24, while costs dropped 90%—platforms are being overwhelmed by low-effort, auto-generated content or “AI slop.” In this environment:

• Authentic, human-verified content becomes a rare and trusted signal.
• Audiences will increasingly seek real people with lived experience and perspective.
• Being irreplaceably human is more valuable than ever—your story, your tone, your trust.

In short: authenticity compounds—and it’s the only moat that can’t be copied.

2. We’re Entering the “Abundance Era”—and the Playing Field Just Changed

AI is reshaping the economics of entrepreneurship:

• Capital needs are shrinking: one-person billion-dollar businesses are now possible.
• Like the dot-com or social media boom, we’re on the cusp of a new tech-powered gold rush.
• In this era of content and tool abundance, trust and curation become the bottlenecks—not information.

Creators and founders must adapt by:

• Owning their IP and data (opt out of AI training by default)
• Documenting their thinking—your thoughts are your moat
• Scaling not by adding noise, but by deepening value and signal

3. Use AI to Amplify Human Value, Not Replace It

Don’t compete with AI—collaborate with it. The key is to:

• Build genuine expertise first, then scale with AI—don't try to fake it with tools
• Expect AI to soon offer “Nobel Prize-level intelligence” in your pocket: free, fast, multilingual
• Prepare for a world where life expectancy rises 20–40 years due to AI-led medical breakthroughs

To thrive, Dara outlined five principles for navigating exponential change:

1. Build before you scale
2. Document your mind—make thinking your IP
3. Protect your authenticity—it builds long-term trust
4. Scale intentionally, not reactively
5. Stay human-centric, even as AI accelerates

The Future of Human Connection in an AI World with Tristan de Montebello

1. Public Speaking Fear Is Learned—You Were Born to Speak Naturally

Tristan’s central insight is powerful: humans are wired to speak, just like birds fly or cats hunt. The fear of public speaking is conditioned, not innate.
Key points:

• Anxiety shows up differently—some fear large audiences, others authority figures.
• The solution isn’t to “fake it till you make it,” but to reclaim your natural speaking instinct.

This reframing shifts the focus from eliminating fear to rediscovering innate ease.

2. Embrace Expression, Not Impression

A standout principle from the workshop: speak to express, not to impress.

• Trying to impress triggers self-consciousness and judgment.
• Speaking to express builds trust, flow, and personal connection.
• Authenticity and individuality become your greatest speaking tools.

By focusing on your message and inner motivation, you unlock confidence and presence without performance pressure.

3. Use Three Transformational Habits to Speak Naturally

1. Stop Leaking Insecurities

• What you feel (nerves, heart rate) isn’t visible unless you call it out.
• Don’t apologize or diminish your message—project calm to build real confidence.

2. Use a Dynamic Energy Range

• Ditch monotone delivery—vary your voice, gestures, and intensity.
• Let your emotions lead your energy—speak from the heart, not a script.

3. Choose Express Mode

• Let go of the need to be perfect—be expressive, relatable, and real.
• Speak from your unique personality, not a generic “professional” voice.

From energy control drills to staying composed at a heart rate of 133 BPM, these tools offer a clear path to authentic, effective speaking.

How to Experiment Your Way to Success with Anne-Laure Le Cunff

1. Replace Rigid Goals with an Experimental Mindset

Shift from a linear goal-setting approach to an experimental one:

• Instead of chasing fixed milestones, creators should combine high ambition with high curiosity.
• Like in science, failure becomes data, not a sign of personal shortcoming.
• This mindset fosters resilience, creativity, and sustainable growth—especially in unpredictable creator landscapes.

The goal isn't perfection; it’s learning by doing, reflecting, and adjusting.

2. Use Tiny, Time-Bound Experiments to Drive Growth

Success doesn’t come from massive pivots—it comes from small, repeatable experiments:

• Start with observation, then design a mini protocol with:
  • A specific action
  • A pre-defined duration
    
• These experiments can be applied to:
  • Content creation (e.g., 60 YouTube Shorts in 60 days)
  • Community building (e.g., micro-forums, interactive polls)
  • Habits and workflows (e.g., deep work windows, no-phone hours)

This approach removes pressure and builds momentum through iteration.

3. Evaluate Experiments with External and Internal Feedback

Once an experiment is complete, there are three valid paths:

• Keep going: If it’s aligned and working
• Pivot: If something needs adjusting
• Move on: If it’s no longer resonating

Importantly, decisions aren’t just based on metrics—creators must consider internal signals like:

• Energy
• Joy
• Mental clarity

Luck Is A Strategy — Here's How to Create It with Lestraundra Alfred

1. Luck Isn’t Random—It’s Built Through Alignment and Action

Lestraundra began her journey as a wellness blogger in 2014, struggling for years with minimal traction. Her breakthrough came in 2018 when she launched a podcast for women of color, which:

• Outperformed her blog in hours, not months
• Grew to hundreds of thousands of downloads/month
• Led to six-figure ad revenue and a major network deal

Her key insight? The creators who seem “lucky” aren’t just lucky—they’re intentional. They align with purpose, take consistent action, and create space for luck to show up.

2. Patterns of “Lucky” Creators: Consistency, Boundaries, and Alignment

1. They Don’t Chase Applause

• Focus on what success feels like, not how it looks from the outside
• Prioritize alignment over performance
• Define success personally, not through external validation

2. Consistency Creates Luck

• Success often comes during the quiet, unglamorous hours
• Systems and habits—not virality—build staying power
  (e.g., Tia Williams writing bestsellers while working full-time and parenting solo)

3. They Make Room for Luck

• Saying “no” clears space for the right yes
• Mental clarity—via walking, journaling, or rest—is essential
• Bold decisions (like pivoting from a successful business) often precede growth

 3. Luck Becomes Inevitable When You Live in Alignment

To build your own “She’s So Lucky” story, ask:

• Where am I showing up consistently, even when it’s quiet?
• How can I improve my commitment to excellence, not just visibility?
• What do I need to declutter or decline to make space for better?

In Lestraundra’s words, luck is a byproduct of:

• Alignment
• Consistent effort
• Resilience
• Intentional decision-making

When you operate from that foundation, luck stops being an accident—it becomes the outcome.

YSometimes the right song, show, or story hits at just the right moment—and suddenly, you're feeling all kinds of inspired.

Whether it’s a podcast that gets you thinking, a soundtrack that fuels your workday, or a show so good it’s worth losing sleep over, those little sparks of joy matter. They’re not just entertainment—they’re the creative boost we didn’t know we needed.

So we thought, why keep the good stuff to ourselves?

Say hello to Creative Curations—a roundup of what’s lighting us up lately. Think: binge-worthy series, feel-good playlists, mind-shifting reads, and the kind of podcasts that stick with you.

Need a creative pick-me-up?
Something to break your scroll?
Or just a solid rec to kickstart your week?

We got you. Let’s get inspired (and maybe a little obsessed)

Favorite Music for Creativity & Motivation

• Droeloe (Music Artist)– “It is music with elements of future bass, chillwave, and experimental electronic music. It has great atmosphere and sound design is fantastic. I suggest listening with good head phones with bass or good speakers.”- Abraham, Support
• Chance Peña– “Such viby music to listen to while working.”- Jefferson, Marketing
• Mystical Magical by Benson Boone– “Okay, while building my updated workout playlist, I came across Benson Boone's music. It's fun, catchy, and there are a couple of his songs on my playlist. But his most recent release, I think, might be my new favorite track for a dance party at home!”- Sarah, Marketing

Must-Read Books That Shift Your Perspective

• The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson – “This book is a fantastic work of fiction featuring characters who fight to overcome hardship in a war-torn land. The writing is engaging and intense, and the characters are dynamic and grow with the story.”- Nicholas, Support
• Reset: How to Change What's Not Working by Dan Heath –“It just has great insights on easy opportunities to look for areas of change. Not huge heavy lifts, small doable tweaks.”- Jeff, Support
• The Slight Edge, by Jeff Olson– “Atomic Habits before Atomic Habits.”- James, Marketing
• Helsreach by Aaron Dembski-Bowden– “Chaplain Grimaldus of the Black Templars is dispatched to Armageddon with his battle brothers to defend the planet against an Ork invasion in one of the foundational pieces of Warhammer 40,000 lore.”- Adam, Product

Favorite Podcasts

• Unsupervised Learning – “Fantastic cyber security podcast for news and insights”.- Keegan, Product
• Tooth and Claw– “I love hearing stories of humans and nature interacting.”- Shelly, Admin.

Favorite Movies and/or TV Shows

• The Bondsman- “1. Kevin BACON! 2. KEVIN Bacon. 3. Great show!!!” – Keegan, Product
• Solo leveling (anime) – “It has a lot of action and season 1 and 2 have been great!”- Abraham, Support
• Night Agent- “This show has good action while being interesting with a good story.”- Pedro, Admin
• Friends- “Friends is more than just a sitcom — it’s a reflection of growing up, navigating careers, relationships, and finding your place, especially when you move far from home — just like I did. As someone who came from Egypt and built a life and career in the U.S., the show's message of chosen family, support, and laughter through life’s ups and downs really hits home. It reminds us that no matter where we are, we can build meaningful connections and keep growing together.“- Ahmed, Support
• Mr. Bean– “Mr. Bean (Rowan Atkinson) was actually an electrical engineer — just like me — before he shifted to comedy. That alone is inspiring. His character shows how creativity and humor can overcome awkward situations and bring people together without needing language. It’s a reminder that even the quietest, quirkiest person can make a global impact. It’s empowering, timeless, and always brings a smile — across cultures, ages, and backgrounds.“- Ahmed, Support
• Silo- “This Apple TV original keeps you on the edge of your seat with a plot that leaves you asking “What do you think is going to happen?!” after every episode. The show's mysterious dystopian atmosphere is both suspenseful and intense, and is full of characters you will love… and others you're not sure you can trust. It only gets better with time in season two, and season three is well on it's way.”- Nicholas, Support
• Daredevil- “He is blind but not really and the Punisher is in it and then they elect the Kingpin mayor and he's all like “No vigilantes on my watch” but then Daredevil and Punisher are all “We are going to vigilante as much as we want to.” But the Kingpin goes “Nuh uh.” Then they go “Yeah huh.” And there are a bunch of fights.”- Adam, Product

Favorite Websites/Apps

• https://isitchristmas.com– “Few websites in the last 35 years have had such an impact on my life as this one. From its sleek and minimalist design to its straightforward and bold message, this website lets you know exactly what it's going to do – and does it with excellence.”- Nicholas, Support
• theSkimm– “I love receiving their newsletter. It's a quick and very informative daily email!” – Sarah, Marketing
• https://writingexamples.com/– “If you like writing and/or reading, this is an incredibly fun and helpful resource for inspiration and education!”– Sarah, Marketing

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1. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High

Best for:

• Leaders, managers, and teams navigating high-stakes discussions
• Anyone who struggles with conflict, feedback, or emotionally charged conversations
• People looking to improve communication in personal and professional relationships

Key Takeaways:

• Start with Heart: Focus on what you really want from the conversation and avoid getting emotionally hijacked.
• Master Your Stories: Understand the narratives you're telling yourself before reacting.
• Create Safety: People only engage when they feel safe. Use tools like contrasting to restore safety.
• State Your Path: Share your perspective clearly but respectfully, using facts first, not emotions.
• Explore Others’ Paths: Encourage others to share their views by being curious and asking questions.
• Move to Action: Decide how to follow up and hold people accountable, not just have a “nice” conversation.

2. The Power of the Other: The Startling Effect Other People Have on You, from the Boardroom to the Bedroom and Beyond

Best for:

• Professionals and leaders wanting to grow personally and relationally
• People feeling isolated or burned out and looking for deeper, healthier relationships
• Anyone curious about how human connection drives performance and growth

“While the concept of this book is common sense, this book put into words something that can easily be taken for granted, and then encourages you to address it and work to make a change. Simply put, other people in your life matter. It’s not just about a few close friends, it’s about being intentional about people in your life that are looking at areas of your life. It inspired me to get a coach to train for the IRONMAN and I experienced first hand the power of the other in the way Gabe pushed me through this year. It’s worth everyone reading just to cement in our brains that we shouldn’t try to go it alone, we need others in every area of our lives.“- Todd Watson, Showit CEO

Key Takeaways:

• Relationships Drive Success: Your performance is limited or elevated by the quality of your key relationships.
• Four Corners of Connection: Only one type of relationship (Corner Four – real, connected, and supportive) truly fuels success.
• Connection Builds Resilience: Isolation, even at high levels of success, leads to emotional and mental breakdown.
• Vulnerability Leads to Growth: Being open and accountable in the right relationships strengthens your capacity.
• Intentional Relationships Matter: Don’t leave your circle to chance—build a supportive, growth-minded network.

3. Can I Have Your Attention?: Inspiring Better Work Habits, Focusing Your Team, and Getting Stuff Done in the Constantly Connected

Best for:

• Leaders and managers trying to guide teams through distraction and digital overwhelm
• Professionals looking to reclaim productivity in a hyper-connected world
• Organizations aiming to improve focus, reduce burnout, and encourage deep work

“I met Curt years ago when he spoke about this concept of attention and he speaks about this for huge companies across the globe. It’s a major problem in a culture that has become wired for distraction and this book gives practical steps to tune things out and become Focus Wise.” – Todd Watson

Key Takeaways:

• Distraction Is the Default: The modern workplace is designed to scatter attention—emails, pings, meetings, and more all compete for brainpower.
• Focus Requires Leadership: Leaders must actively create environments where focus is possible, not just encourage it.
• Protect Mental Bandwidth: People do their best work when they can fully engage—this means fewer interruptions and clearer boundaries.
• Culture Drives Behavior: To change habits, shift team culture—not just tools or to-do lists. Model the focus you want to see.
• Clarity Beats Busyness: Clear expectations, priorities, and outcomes lead to less noise and more meaningful work.
• Attention is Influence: The way you direct and model your attention directly influences how your team works and what they prioritize.

Final Thoughts:

Lead with clarity. Focus and communication are your greatest tools in a noisy world.

Connection fuels performance. Who you surround yourself with shapes what you can achieve.

Conversation drives culture. Every dialogue is a chance to build trust and direction.

Focus is intentional. In a distracted world, deep work is a choice—one leaders must model.

Small shifts, big results. Meaningful change starts with better habits, better relationships, and better conversations.

Our team has put together a list of fun Creative Curations of all the things we've really enjoyed listening, reading, and watching! Check them out!

If you’ve mentioned your Showit site to a friend (because let’s be honest, it’s hard not to), you could be earning free months on Showit—or even some extra cash—just by sending them your referral link.

Yep. Showit has a super simple and generous Referral Program that lets you help a friend and reward yourself at the same time. Here’s how it works—and why it’s honestly one of the easiest “rewards” programs I know of.

What does everyone get?

When someone signs up using your link:
They get their first month of Showit FREE (so fun to gift that!)
You earn a free month of Showit once they’ve been an active subscriber for 64 days

It's truly a win-win. You're helping them get started with a beautiful website, and you’re getting a little thank-you from Showit in return.

But wait… it gets better.

You can earn unlimited free months. For real. There’s no cap on how many friends you can refer or how many credits you can rack up.

And once you’ve got 12 free months saved up (basically a year of free Showit ), any new referrals will start earning you Affiliate Credit—which means actual cash payouts.

Let me say that again:
Share a tool you already love → help a friend → get your subscription covered → and possibly earn money.

So… who can join?

If you’re already using Showit and have a paid subscription, congrats—you’re in! No extra sign-up, no complicated forms. You just grab your referral link from your account and start sharing it with friends, clients, or anyone who’s ready to build a website they love.

A few practical things to know:

What plan you’re on doesn’t matter. Your credits apply to whatever you’re currently paying (monthly or annually).

Your friend can still use your link even if they’ve made a Showit account already. As long as they haven’t subscribed yet, they can log in via your link and apply the offer.

Subscription Credit = applies to your billing | Affiliate Credit = cash you can redeem (Taxes aren’t included in credits, just FYI.)

You don’t need tech skills. You don’t need a pitch. Just keep doing what you’re already doing—sharing the tools that work—and let Showit reward you for it.

Ready to share the love?

If you’re already on Showit, head to your account, grab your unique referral link, and start spreading the word. You never know who’s waiting for the nudge to build their dream website.

And if you’re new to Showit and want to give it a spin—you can get your first month free just by using my referral link right here: account.showit.com

Let’s build beautiful websites and get rewarded for it. Sounds good, right?

When it comes to building a thriving business, our CEO, Todd Watson, believes in one key principle: learn from the best. To that end, Todd has returned time and again to a powerful collection of business books—each one shaping the way he leads, makes decisions, and grows the company. In fact, these aren’t just one-time reads. Rather, they’re must-read business books that continue to impact our team’s culture, strategy, and success.

Whether you're just starting out or well into your leadership journey, this list has something for you. So, whether you're an entrepreneur scaling your startup, a leader developing your team, or someone simply passionate about personal growth and business strategy, this list is packed with valuable insights to help guide and inspire your journey.

1. Small Giants by Bo Burlingham

Best for: Leaders who want to grow a purpose-driven, people-first company

I received this book as a gift years ago and really enjoyed it then, but after big transitions within my company I really came to lean on it as the path toward where I want to go. It’s so encouraging to see other companies that chose a path that didn’t just go build a company to be big and sell, but instead focused on being a great company for their community and employees. I re-read it again this year and still continue to be inspired by the stories that Bo shares in this book.” – Todd Watson

This book highlights companies that chose greatness over growth. Instead of scaling quickly, they stayed small on purpose. Their focus? Excellence, strong communities, and a healthy company culture.

Author Bo Burlingham calls them “small giants”—businesses that ignore the pressure to grow fast and, instead, build lasting legacies based on their values.

Key Takeaways:

• Success doesn’t always mean scaling fast
• Purpose-driven business models build lasting impact
• Keeping control within the company can be a strategic advantage

2. EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey

Best for: Entrepreneurs and small business owners looking for a practical, values-driven approach to leadership

“This is my business Bible, the source I go back to for guidance in so many areas of how to run a company. When anyone asks my how to build a company, I tell them to start here. I make it a practice to listen to it each year and my leadership team has all read it. I use many of the rhythms from this book and I can’t thank Dave enough for the encouragement and challenge this book has been to our business.” – Todd Watson

In EntreLeadership, Ramsey blends entrepreneurship and leadership into one clear, actionable guide. With personal stories and practical tools, this book empowers leaders to take ownership of their businesses—and themselves.

“If you're the problem, you're also the solution.”

Key Takeaways:

• Strong leadership starts with self-awareness and growth
• Business success is driven by intentional culture and clear systems
• Leadership rhythms can build consistency and trust

3. The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni

Best for: Leaders focused on long-term success through team alignment and communication

“After EntreLeadership, “The Advantage” is next on my most influential books on how to operate a company. He cites “organizational health” as the key to success in a business and then works through the areas that create this health. Lencioni’s six critical questions are the foundation of how we structure our leadership and vision communication and what we come back to over and over in our team. It’s simplicity breathes life into what could be a stale process and is also a strong reminder in the importance of communicating things over and over again. This is the third book that I “re-read” this past year but just like good communication, it takes multiple times to really sink in.” – Todd Watson

Lencioni outlines six critical questions every organization must answer to build trust, clarity, and alignment. Simple in concept but powerful in practice, this book offers a framework that transforms how leaders communicate vision, strategy, and values.

“The single greatest advantage any company can achieve is organizational health.”

Key Takeaways:

• Alignment at the leadership level impacts every layer of the business
• Clear, consistent communication is vital to culture and execution
• Repetition is key: say the important things over and over again

4. The Power of Moments by Chip & Dan Heath

Best for: Anyone looking to create memorable, meaningful experiences for customers and teams

While not a traditional business operations book, The Power of Moments explores how to intentionally create standout moments in life and work. It’s a reminder that success is often built in small, powerful experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Key Takeaways:

• Moments matter—especially in leadership, culture, and customer service
• You can engineer moments that inspire, connect, and elevate
• Great companies don’t just provide products—they create experiences

Final Thoughts: Start With One, Build From There

If you’re looking to grow as a leader, build a healthier company, or inspire your team, these books are a powerful place to start. Each one has played a meaningful role in shaping how Todd leads—and how our company shows up for our clients and community every day.

Ready to grow your business through better leadership?
Start with one of these titles and let it challenge the way you think, lead, and build.

Our team has put together a list of fun Creative Curations of all the things we've really enjoyed listening, reading, and watching! Check them out!

You know that feeling when you discover the perfect song that matches your mood, a show so good you cancel plans, or a book that lingers in your thoughts long after the last page? We live for that.

We all have our go-to favorites—the playlist that gets us through Monday mornings, the comfort movie we’ve memorized line by line, or the podcast that somehow always knows what we need to hear. These aren’t just forms of entertainment—they’re fuel for creativity, motivation, and joy.

That’s why we’re sharing what inspires us.

For that reason, we put together our Creative Curations: the shows, music, books, podcasts, and more that have sparked new ideas, made us laugh, and helped us stay inspired through busy seasons.

So whether you’re looking for:

• A pick-me-up for your creative block
• A new binge-worthy TV show
• Uplifting music to soundtrack your day, or
• A book that shifts your perspective

—we’ve got recommendations you’ll love.

In short, we want you to get inspired, refreshed, and maybe a little obsessed (like we are!)

Favorite Music for Creativity & Motivation

• Rushmere by Mumford & Sons – “Eeeek! I am so excited they are back! Mumford & Sons was introduced to me by my now-husband over 16 years ago when we were dating and I've loved their music since. This new album is nothing short than wonderful. The sound is fresh, the lyrics are so positive and real. It's a solid listen for when you are working out or just being productive.”- Sarah from Marketing
• PATTERNS by Kelsea Ballerini – “This album is really good! With incredible production full of hooks, great interactions with melodies, and amazing sound selection interacting well with the lyrics for each song, this album feels like having the best drive to your favorite place with the people you love.” – Rod, (friends with Sarah, Marketing)

Must-Read Books That Shift Your Perspective

• Captivating by John Eldredge – “Helped me understand myself and heal parts that I didn’t realize needed some work.”- Kylie from support
• Crucial Conversations Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High – “Really great resource to realize how much negative impact a long lag time from issue to conversation can have in organizations or our interpersonal relationships outside of work”.- Jeff from Support
• The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child's Developing Mind – Jess from Marketing
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni – Ethan from Marketing

Favorite Podcasts

• Unsupervised Learning – “Fantastic cyber security podcast for news and insights”.- Keegan, Product
• Marketing Made Simple (Donald Miller)- Clear, practical marketing advice rooted in storytelling. Great for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Favorite Movies and/or TV Shows

• Reacher (Season 3) – “Alan Ritchson stars as the larger-than-live Jack Reacher. If you love an action hero narrative packed with close calls, fight scenes, and a tough guy with a big heart under that hard exterior, this is a great watch.”- Jeff, Support
• Lethal Weapon – “Despite being a gritty action film, it had hilarious dialogue and natural chemistry between the leads, making it fun and rewatchable”. – Ahmed, Support
• Shrinking on Apple TV – “Hilarious, wholesome, and all around feel-good”. – Kylie, Support
• Night Agent on Netflix – “Such a great action series on Netflix and I don’t usually like to watch shows”. – Abraham, Support

Favorite Websites/Apps

• Google Keep – for quick notes, to-do lists, and organizing your life.
• Libby – borrow ebooks and audiobooks for free from your local library.
• Insight Timer – free meditations, sleep stories, and calming music.

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You know that feeling when you find the perfect song for your vibe, a show so good you cancel plans, or a book that sticks with you long after the last page? Yeah, we live for that.

We all have those go-to favorites—the playlist that powers you through a Monday, the comfort movie you could quote in your sleep, or the podcast that somehow always gets you. These little gems aren’t just entertainment; they’re fuel for creativity, motivation, and let’s be honest, pure joy.

So, we’re sharing ours! The Showit team has rounded up our Creative Curations—the shows, music, books, and more that have inspired us, made us laugh, and kept us going. Whether you need a pick-me-up, a fresh idea, or just something really good to obsess over, we’ve got you.

March's Best Music

Music is something we all connect with, and our playlists are as unique as we are. This month, here are three of our favorite songs, albums, or artists we can’t get enough of!

• When The War is Over by JOHNNYSWIM– “I've loved their music for years now, but I think this is their best yet. Their raw honesty and heartfelt storytelling are so good, almost like a warm cup of chicken soup on a rainy day. From battling depression to finding out about a long-term illness (and everything in between), every song connects with you on a deep level.”- Sarah from Marketing
• The World of Hans Zimmer- Part II: A New Dimension by Hans Zimmer, Odessa Orchestra & Friends, Gavin Greenaway- “Hans Zimmer is my top one Movie Scores composer. This double album features over two hours of music, transforming 17 of Zimmer's most iconic film scores into new orchestral suites. If you love movie scores, you will love this one. It contains some of Zimmer's most known and popular tracks.”– Sarah from Marketing

March's Best Books

We love a good story—whether it’s on the page or in your earbuds. This month, we’re spotlighting three standout books and audiobooks that grabbed our attention with unforgettable tales, powerful authors, and narratives that linger long after the last word.

• The Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson – “It is a fantastic fantasy series with compelling characters, a unique magic system, and twists that will send your head reeling!”- Cole from Support
• The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson – “It is an immense fantasy series with exceptional worldbuilding and extremely deep characters who go through massive development.”- Cole from Support
• Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir – “A fascinating sci-fi novel that is only available on Audible. It is extremely engaging and had me cheering in my car on the way to work!” – Cole from Support
• Exceptionally Bad Dad Jokes: So frightfully awful.. yet wonderfully spiffing. Vol II – “Who doesn't love laughing.”- Keegan from Product
• The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster – “Darren talks about the ups and downs of owning/starting a business. I love that he talks about finding your passion, find your fight, find your strength, and knowing that this will be a ride that can be scary but also rewarding. I love his vulnerability of what it took to get to where he is at now.”- Monica from Billing
• The Illustrated Version of Harry Potter – “We recently have been reading longer form books with our daughter (7) and got her the first Harry Potter book, Illustrated edition.” – Kat from Marketing
• Through a Looking Glass Dimly: Recovering the Wonder of the Alice Books (Webinar) – “Alice in Wonderland is not just a guy describing an acid trip. It's actually a profound argument for transcendence and an ironic joke at the expense of the praise of the “rationality” of the enlightenment.” – Caleb from BDOW

March's Best Podcasts

• Raising Parents – “Just like in her book, (Expecting Better) Emily Oster uses data to tackle the deep, difficult, and urgent questions regarding parenting today.” – Jess from Marketing
• Grounded Wellness – “Provides trustworthy information on how to live a more holistic and non-toxic life.”- Adria from HR
• Self-Made Web Designer – “It's from me ;).”- Chris from Marketing

March's Best Movies/TV Shows

“I'm a dedicated fan of movies and TV shows—it’s my go-to for relaxing and having fun. I’m not into horror (like my mom would say: “Why would I voluntarily sit to watch something that's gonna make me suffer if life is already hard work?”), but give me action, suspense, conspiracy, or a good rom-com, and I’m all in. Here are some shows I’ve loved or am really enjoying right now!” – Sarah from Marketing

• Paradise on Hulu – “A thrilling political drama starring Sterling K. Brown as a Secret Service agent who finds himself at the center of a presidential assassination. When the leader of the country is murdered in a seemingly perfect community, he becomes the prime suspect and must unravel a web of secrets to clear his name. With plenty of mystery, suspense, and unexpected twists, this show keeps you guessing. If you love high-stakes drama with a touch of sci-fi, this one's worth a watch!“
• The Night Agent on Netflix – “A high-stakes thriller about an FBI agent who answers a late-night call and gets pulled into a deadly conspiracy. With spies, secrets, and nonstop action, it’s a wild ride full of twists. Seasons 1 and 2 are out now!”
• Silo on Apple TV – “A sci-fi mystery set in a massive underground bunker where no one knows the full truth. As one woman starts digging for answers, she uncovers secrets that could change everything. With mystery, drama, and dystopian vibes, it’s perfect for fans of Fallout and Snowpiercer! Seasons 1 and 2 are available now.”

March's Best Websites/Apps

• https://www.instagram.com/september___studio/?hl=en – “Super beautiful and inspiring florals.”- Kat from Marketing
• estatesales.net – “Awesome place to find treasures.”- Kat from Marketing
• https://palette.site/ – A browser extension to generate comprehensive palettes. A must-have tool for designers and frontend developers. Precise colour scheme extraction.
• Yuka app– Yuka evaluates food items based on nutritional quality, additive presence, and organic status. Cosmetic products are analyzed by examining each ingredient's potential health effects, such as being endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, allergens, or irritants.
  

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It's awards season! The Golden Globes, Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, and Tonys are taking center stage, and we’ve been diving in (well, at least I have). We’ve hit the theaters, checked out some fresh TV shows, and listened to top-tier podcasts and audiobooks. It’s been so good to soak up all the creativity.

Let’s be honest, though—we all have those go-to favorites. You know, that playlist that gets you through a busy day (or the workout you don't feel like doing at 5 am), the comfort movie you’ve rewatched a million times because it never fails to make you smile, or that website you turn to when you’re searching for fresh ideas (I actually have a list on my notes app called “Sarah's favorites”). Think of these as your “Creative Curations.”

So, here’s our (the Showit team) list of Creative Curations: shows, music, books, and more that have inspired us—whether we needed a little nudge to finish a project or just a laugh to lighten the mood.

February's Best Music

Music is something we all connect with, and our playlists are as unique as we are. This month, here are three of our favorite songs, albums, or artists we can’t get enough of!

• The Living Room, Vol. 1 by The Kruse Brothers- Ethan from Marketing
• Polo & Pan, Sarah the Illstrumentalist, Tame Impala, Poolside- “Whoops, probably looking for one at a time, eh? Those are all just good music to vibe to that are easy to tune out the lyrics of (or don't have lyrics or are in another language).”- Jeff from Support
• Penny and Sparrow- I love these artists because of how intentional they are with their song writing as well as their overall unique sound.- Kara from Support

February's Best Books

We love a good story—whether it’s on the page or in your earbuds. This month, we’re spotlighting three standout books and audiobooks that grabbed our attention with unforgettable tales, powerful authors, and narratives that linger long after the last word.

• Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling by Matthew Dicks – “It's a great book that encourages you to look at your life and all of the details that make up the very unique and interesting story of you.” – Jihae from Admin
• I’ll Be There (but i will be wearing sweatpants): Finding Unfiltered, Real-Life Friendships in This Crazy, Chaotic World by Amy Weatherly– “Finding unfiltered real-life friendships in this crazy chaotic world. I love how it talks about the realness of adulthood and finding and maintaining those true authentic friendships that are hard but also so rewarding.”– Shamesha from Marketing
• Main Street Millionaire by Codie Sanchez– “Practical strategies on how to purchase profitable businesses!”– Adria from Admin
• Wild Color by Jenny Dean and Karen Diadick Casselman– “A book about classic ways of making different color dyes. Super fun and easy to follow”- Keegan from Product
• A Swim in a Pond in the Rain by George Saunders– “Exposure to the greats of Russian literature! Amazing advice for storytellers! Humor! Depth!” – Elisa

February's Best Podcasts

• The Severance Podcast with Ben Stiller and Adam Scott- “If you have loved the TV Show, you will love this podcast. it's an in-depth conversation about each episode of season 1 so far. It's intriguing and engaging!- Sarah from Marketing
• The Jefferson Fisher Podcast– “I love engaging with people. All. The. Time. Jefferson's podcast highlights common communication scenarios that typically leave one or both parties hurt or offended and offers tools and actionable steps to remedy these very same moments, creating the atmosphere for both parties to walk away better people.” – Hilary from Admin
• Jocko Podcast– “I enjoy this podcast because it is a good resource for building discipline and a good mindset.”- Zac from Product
• Stuff You Should Know– “It shares interesting facts and information.”- Shelly

February's Best Movies/TV Shows

• Severance on Apple TV– “This show is good. The new season was just released!”- Josh from Product

February's Best Websites/Apps

• Descript.com – “It's an Ai utility knife for creating content. I use it for writing descriptions and titles.”- Jefferson from Marketing
  

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