In this episode, Paul and Ed sit down and have an honest check in. They talk about their current struggles, wins, and breakthroughs. Paul shares his perspective as a married father of 3 and how he’s been able to have work life balance. Ed also shares his perspective on playing the long game when it comes to life or your creative career. Thanks for tapping into the middle of the conversation :) Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/...
Jun 27, 2025•23 min•Ep. 97
In this episode, Ed and Paul sit down with Chicago photographer, Nolis Anderson, to unpack his journey from his first job to working with clients like Lebron James, Chance the Rapper, and Jack Harlow. He’s also been published by outlets like The New York Times and Variety Magazine. Nolis shares how he got his start shooting parties, what he learned on big commercial sets, and why building community has become the ultimate goal. We also dive into creative licensing, pricing strategy, and the valu...
Jun 19, 2025•48 min•Ep. 96
In this episode, Paul and Ed pull back the curtain on what it’s really like working with major brands like Garmin and Nike. They unpack the behind-the-scenes of each shoot, sharing the biggest lessons learned, what went right, what went wrong, and what they’d do differently next time. Whether you’re a creative or a freelancer trying to land bigger gigs or just want a raw look at high-level brand work, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Connect with us on Instagram Edwar...
Jun 13, 2025•34 min•Ep. 95
How do you get 3,000 people to show up for a public event? Andrew Glatt is a Chicago-based lifestyle and commercial photographer who loves to focus on community, wellness, and connecting with others. He was the co-founder of Friday Morning Swim Club, a weekly event that would involve thousands of people putting their phones away and jumping into Lake Michigan to hang out with others. In this episode, Andrew shares his experience as a creative entrepreneur and his new endeavor of building a sauna...
Jun 05, 2025•43 min•Ep. 94
A few months ago, Edward had over $30,000 worth of his camera gear stolen. In this episode, Paul and Ed talk about how it all went down to the frustrating aftermath of police reports, insurance claims, and trying to rebuild. Sometimes setbacks are inevitable, but how you bounce back and overcome the challenges is what counts. Hope you enjoy this story time that includes a few laughs and practical pieces of advice for anyone going through a sudden hardship. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee...
May 30, 2025•28 min•Ep. 93
In this episode, we sit down with Alina Tsvor, a Chicago-based commercial photographer and creative director. She’s worked on set with global brands such as Adidas, Nike, Wilson, Chicago Bulls, and more. We unpack her journey from posting passion projects on Instagram to building a community focused photography studio and landing major brand partnerships. If you are looking for a good story, actionable advice, and inspiration to pursue your passion, you’ll want to give this one a listen. Follow ...
May 22, 2025•42 min•Ep. 92
Season 2 Chicago is here! In this episode, we dive into one of the most underrated tools in a creative freelancer’s toolkit: asking the right questions. In many ways, this can make or break your success. We break it down into three categories: credibility, learning, and filtering questions and share how each one can improve your conversations with decision makers or when networking with others. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/...
May 15, 2025•26 min•Ep. 91
Thats a wrap on Season 1 in Toronto! In this closing episode, we discuss what we learned from this season and how we're feeling about the podcast. We appreciate everyone who has tuned in for this season of the podcast and we can't wait to keep it going. Can you guess which city is next? Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: https://www.instagram.com/paulwheatthins/ Subscribe to our Yo...
Feb 14, 2025•13 min•Ep. 90
How do you balance all the creative highs and lows that come with being a freelance creative? In this episode, Toronto based creative, Chris Hau, shares his thoughts on the current landscape of the content economy. He also dives into topics covering mental health, business, and mindset. Follow Chris: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechrishau YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thechrishau Connect with Paul & Ed: Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/...
Jan 14, 2025•52 min•Ep. 89
What should you know about UGC (User Generated Content) and how you can utilize it to make more money as a creator? In this episode, we break down the current wave of user generated content and how we've managed to close multiple 5 figure deals with this type of content. Whether you are an iPhone creator, YouTuber, or freelance creative - UGC content can bring in more revenue for your business. During the conversation, we outline the tips on how to get started and key things to keep in mind. Con...
Jan 07, 2025•29 min•Ep. 88
How do you balance building your freelance business and also post regularly on YouTube? Kofi Yeboah opens up about his journey of navigating two demanding careers, sharing the behind-the-scenes challenges and wins that shaped his path. This episode will be valuable for any creative freelancer who wants to grow their freelance business and carve out the time to build their presence online. We all have the same 24 hours in the day, but this episode will help give perspective on how you can maximiz...
Dec 31, 2024•43 min•Ep. 87
Are you tired of lowball offers and clients who don’t value your creative work? In this episode, we break down the 5 ways to start landing bigger budget projects and how to charge what you think you're worth. Whether you're a photographer, videographer, creator, or graphic designer, we think you'll find this episode valuable. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: https://www.instagram.com/paulwheatt...
Dec 23, 2024•25 min•Ep. 86
In this episode, Nicole Shapiro, a Toronto-based Cinematographer and Producer, shares her insights on pricing your work, navigating spec projects, and the lessons she's learned while evolving as a creative in the Toronto scene. We dive into topics like valuing your craft, balancing passion with business, and finding your unique voice as a filmmaker. Hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did. Follow Nicole: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nshaps YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nsh...
Dec 16, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 85
Let's talk about creating structure, routine, and mindset as the year comes to a close. As creative freelancers, December is usually a mixed bag of trying to rest but also be prepared for the new year. In this episode, Paul and Ed talk about how they balance their business with personal responsibilities in Q4. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: https://www.instagram.com/paulwheatthins/ Subs...
Dec 09, 2024•19 min•Ep. 84
In this episode, Daniel shares his journey as a filmmaker and how he went from a freelancer to YouTuber with over 2 million subs. We dive into topics about creativity, investing into yourself, and how to succeed as a video creator. Hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did :) Follow Daniel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniel.schiffer/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@danielschiffer Connect with Paul & Ed: Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/...
Dec 02, 2024•49 min•Ep. 83
What's your budget? What's your rate? These questions can be hard to answer and will make any discovery call awkward real quick. In this episode, we share the 5 P's for dealing with pricing anxiety so you can feel more comfortable with talking about money. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: https://www.instagram.com/paulwheatthins/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtu...
Nov 18, 2024•23 min•Ep. 82
We've been gone for a few months...let us explain. The podcast will look a little different moving forward but we are excited for whats to come. In this episode, we give a life update and what to expect from us moving forward. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: https://www.instagram.com/paulwheatthins/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@midconvo...
Nov 18, 2024•6 min•Ep. 81
Matthew Encina is a content creator, product designer, educator and creative director. In this episode, Matthew shares his expert advice on mentorship, productivity, and brand pitching. We dive deep into the topic of curiosity and why context is so important when it comes to growing as a creative. He previously worked with his mentor Chris Do at The Futur, an educational community for designers and creatives. After leaving Futur, Matthew has been building his own design studio ( Mod Musings ) an...
Jun 20, 2024•1 hr 44 min•Ep. 80
What should you invest your time and money into longterm? As a creative, its important diversify your efforts and not put all your eggs into one basket. For this episode, we talk about what we are investing into currently, some practical business advice, and overall life fulfillment. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: https://www.instagram.com/paulwheatthins/ Subscribe to our YouTube channe...
Jun 06, 2024•38 min•Ep. 79
You get an inquiry way below your normal rate, but you want to still make some money, how should you respond? In this episode, Paul and Ed share their personal experiences and advice on how to navigate this conversation. By the end of the episode you should feel more comfortable with handling low budget inquiries and even possibly turn them into high paying clients. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: ...
May 02, 2024•24 min•Ep. 78
As a creative in any industry, you're often put in positions where it's easy to compare yourself to others. We're always trying to tap into our full potential and probably don't celebrate the wins enough. In this episode, Paul and Ed talk about why it's so important to celebrate your wins and remember that the only person you are playing against is yourself. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: http...
Apr 22, 2024•23 min•Ep. 77
Do you get nervous when you have a call with a potential client for a photo or video project? In this short episode, we'll share five questions that all freelance creatives should ask their clients. The insights from this episode will help you better understand your clients and secure more projects as a freelancer. Ep 31 - Asking The Right Questions Spotify: https://bit.ly/3I3BSYL Apple Podcast: https://bit.ly/48idBJ7 Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com...
Feb 17, 2024•20 min•Ep. 76
Are you feeling stressed or anxious about tax season? In this episode, we will share valuable lessons we have learned regarding tax preparation, tax strategy, and running a freelance photo/video business. Please note the advice provided in this episode is based on our personal experiences and should be discussed with a professional tax accountant before implementing. Give it a listen, and drop us a review here if you enjoyed this episode. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https...
Feb 01, 2024•25 min•Ep. 75
How can you make sure you hit the ground running in 2024? When it comes to closing one year strong, and embarking on the next, it’s important to audit what things went well, and what things need to change in your freelance business. In this episode, we close out the year by chatting about what went down in 2023 in our own businesses, and what we are planning for in the year ahead. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver: ...
Dec 21, 2023•20 min•Ep. 74
How hard is it to build a 7-figure YouTube channel? Justin Tse is a YouTuber, Traveler and Entrepreneur. Over the last decade, he's diversified into real estate, investments, and products. In this episode, we talk about the reality of running a successful tech channel, how he's managed to become a millionaire at the young age of 26, and the mindset you need to carry if you want to succeed. Follow Justin Tse: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justin.tse/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@J...
Dec 14, 2023•52 min•Ep. 73
Should you make the jump to full-time freelance? Should you quit your job to pursue your passion? In this episode, we talk about our own journeys of going full-time freelance as a photographer/videographer. We share insights on what we wish we knew back then and what you need to ask yourself if you are considering it. If you've been anxious about going all in, this episode is for you. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul Weaver...
Nov 20, 2023•23 min•Ep. 72
Are you tired of getting ghosted and feeling like brands don't respect the amount of work you put in? In this episode, we dive into a few of the reasons why brands might be treating you this way and what you can do about it. We share insights on communication, branding, relationship building, and practical tips you can implement right after the episode. This is a no fluff, straight to the point conversation. Connect with us on Instagram Edward Lee: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilm...
Nov 09, 2023•32 min•Ep. 71
What is the secret to making 5-figures per month as a creative entrepreneur? Well, there are no secrets — only proven strategies. In this episode, we share some of the key strategies that we have implemented into our businesses in order to achieve a consistent 5 figures per month. If you've been struggling to break out of the small budget shoots, this episode is for you. Connect with us on Instagram Edward: https://www.instagram.com/edwardleefilms/ Paul: https://www.instagra...
Oct 31, 2023•38 min•Ep. 70
Do you struggle with staying consistent and creating structure in your life? In this episode, Ed sits down with Giancarlo (@carlostigs) to chat about his journey from production assistant to DP. He's self taught and has worked hard to make his way onto large production sets. You might recognize his recent work as a Director of Photography in Danny Gevirtz feature film "I Think I'm Sick". One thing we all struggle with is creating structure and organization in our life. Carlo shares in this episo...
Oct 10, 2023•38 min•Ep. 69
What can freelancers and creatives learn from how successful restaurants operate? Every successful restaurant understands that it's not enough to just have amazing food (that's a given). They need to focus on customer experience, speed, overhead, reviews, etc. In this episode, we breakdown how creative entrepreneurs and freelancers can learn valuable lessons from the restaurant business that can be applied to various niches. Connect with us on Instagram Edward: https://www.instagram.com/ed...
Oct 02, 2023•37 min•Ep. 68
