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This week's episode is a personal one. Den shares the incredible story of Bruce Logan ASC - the man behind the Death Star explosion in Star Wars — and the humbling lessons he learned from working with him.

But it’s not just about nostalgia. Den also pulls no punches about the real state of the video industry in 2025: budget cuts, slower sales cycles, and why many creative businesses are quietly collapsing without realizing it.

You'll learn why "good enough" might actually save your business this year... and why community, mentorship, and adaptability are more critical than ever.

If you’re serious about building a sustainable creative business — especially in a tougher market — this episode is unmissable.

🎥 Watch the behind-the-scenes footage of Bruce’s project for Sony, coming soon to YouTube.

➡️ Ready for real business support? DM Den on Instagram @den_lennie or email den@denlennie.com.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com

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www.thevideomentors.com

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After three decades behind the camera, I’ve made a big call…

In this episode, I’m announcing something I’ve never done before: I’m releasing my entire archive of foundational training , shooting, lighting, camera operation, all for free on YouTube.

These trainings once sold for thousands. Now, they’re yours to learn from, build on, and share.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game a while, this is the kind of practical, real-world knowledge you won’t find on TikTok tutorials.

Inside this episode:

• Why I’m giving away 30 years of production experience
• What's inside the Videographer Foundation Series (now on YouTube)
• The difference between gear knowledge and storytelling skill
• How you can apply for a $2,000 scholarship to join the VBA Uplevel program if you're in a regional area

This is about giving back and helping the next wave of filmmakers stop guessing and start growing.

🎥 Check out the free training: [Search “Den Lennie The Video Mentors” on YouTube]
🎓 Apply for a scholarship: DM “SCHOLARSHIP” on Instagram @denlennie or email den@thevideomentors.com

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

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Ever feel like your video business is stuck in survival mode, feast or famine, no time to breathe, and definitely no time to grow?

In this episode, Den sits down with Matt Smolen, founder of Balloon Tree Productions, to uncover the surprisingly simple system that helped him go from an overwhelmed solo freelancer to running a thriving 5-person team, operating out of a slick Melbourne studio.

Matt reveals:

• The 1-4-8 rule that created consistent monthly revenue
• How he finally stopped micromanaging and started leading
• Why he ditched the traditional niche and leaned into his unique creative style
• The mindset shift that let him build a business that supports his life—not consumes it

If you’re ready to stop doing everything yourself and start building something sustainable (and fun), this episode is a must-listen.

👉 Want more behind-the-scenes lessons from real video business owners? Subscribe and leave a review, it helps us help more creatives like you.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

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In this inspiring conversation, Den Lennie sits down with Caleb Maxwell from Hebron Films to unpack the real, behind-the-scenes journey of growing a video production business from a struggling startup to a thriving six-figure operation.

Caleb shares the raw truths of making just $25K a year, hitting revenue ceilings, and the pivotal role coaching played in scaling up to $500K.

This episode explores what it really takes to grow sustainably in the creative industry, from overcoming limiting beliefs about money to building a purpose-driven business (and family).

If you're a videographer, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur feeling stuck, this episode is your roadmap to aligned, strategic growth, with a whole lot of heart.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

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In this candid solo episode, I reflect on key lessons from dozens of conversations with videographers over the past 90 days.

From the difference between those who are scaling successful video businesses and those who are stuck whining, to the transformative power of reframing client problems, this video is packed with hard-won wisdom.

I break down how adopting a business mindset, asking deeper diagnostic questions, and moving away from transactional pricing can unlock long-term client relationships and serious revenue.

Real stories from our VBA coaches, like Caleb turning a $5K inquiry into a $27K project, demonstrate the power of positioning video as a solution to business problems, not just a service.

Whether you're freelancing, stuck in a feast-or-famine cycle, or looking to grow a serious video business, this episode will give you the insights (and wake-up call) you need.

👉 Listen until the end for the story about how one video install guide helped a client win over tradies and dominate their niche.

Learn more at www.videobusinessaccelerator.com

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Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

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Jay Moyes was this close to giving up on his video business dreams

He was ready to trade his camera for a wrench and go back to ..

But instead? He built a six-figure video business and now gets paid to travel the world, filming in incredible locations.

And the craziest part?

It all came down to one decision that completely changed everything.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your creative career or wondered if success is really possible, Jay’s story might be exactly what you need to hear

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

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📞 Waiting for work to come to you? It’s time to make the first move.

When business slows down, it’s easy to get stuck in waiting mode—but the best opportunities often come from the connections you’ve already made.

This episode dives into practical ways to generate leads and secure work during lean times. We explore the power of checking in with past clients and nurturing existing relationships to unlock new business.

You’ll also hear insights on cold outreach, the power of referrals, and why self-belief is key to staying proactive and resilient. Because success starts with action.

The Video Mentors: Den Lennie, Andy Johnston, Caleb Maxell, Matt Smolen

Download the Little Black Book of Video Business Secrets: The Success Formula of 6 and 7-figure Video Businesses - Stand out, win premium projects, and grow while working less.

Get more great resources and check out how you can work with us in our FREE community directly at TheVideoMentors.com

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00:00 Introduction and Addressing the Perception of Lean Times

01:27 The Power of Genuine Conversations and Checking In on Past Clients

07:37 Utilizing LinkedIn for Outreach and Collaboration

11:18 Nurturing Existing Clients and Offering Additional Services

15:34 The Importance of Mindset and Self-Belief in Business

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com

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In this candid episode, Den shares a behind-the-scenes look at what's been working and what hasn't - on the podcast. After experimenting with a new format featuring multiple video mentors, the data shows it's time for a change.

Den announces a shift back to engaging solo episodes and one-on-one interviews while introducing an exciting new approach: live problem-solving sessions for video business owners.

Tune in to hear how you can participate and help shape the future of the podcast!

Download the Little Black Book of Video Business Secrets: The Success Formula of 6 and 7-figure Video Businesses - Stand out, win premium projects, and grow while working less.

Get more great resources and check out how you can work with us in our FREE community directly at TheVideoMentors.com

Follow us on Instagram

Support the show

Connect with Den on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den_lennie

www.thevideomentors.com