Welcome back to Creator Science! In this special Strategy Hour episode, host Jay Clouse flips the script as a guest on Abagail Pumphrey’s acclaimed podcast, Strategy Hour. Abagail, the founder and CEO of The Boss Project, dives into Jay’s fascinating journey from startup founder to creative entrepreneur—exploring how he built a thriving newsletter business, fostered an engaged community, and navigated the ever-evolving creator landscape.
Together, they break down what it really means to grow an audience with intention, why consistency trumps fleeting viral moments, and how creators can build businesses that last. Jay pulls back the curtain on his process, from his early days writing daily emails to building a sustainable business rooted in genuine connection and trust. You’ll also hear their takes on the future of courses, the role of AI and community in online business, and the importance of slow, steady growth.
If you’re craving real talk about surviving (and thriving) as a creator—plus actionable tips on how to treat your newsletter as your most valuable product—this episode is for you. Stick around for an insightful conversation that’s both inspiring and refreshingly honest, and be sure to check the show notes to subscribe to Strategy Hour for more entrepreneurial wisdom!
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Full transcript and show notes
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 "Exploring Uncharted Podcast Territory"
04:44 "Insights on Becoming a Creator"
07:10 Promoting Newsletter via Events & Email
11:58 Audience vs. Crowd: Content Focus
15:38 Newsletter: Business Stability Anchor
16:36 Social Media Engagement Challenges
22:32 Slow Path to Sustainable Business
26:10 "Coping with Online Fame's Pressure"
30:04 Twelve-Week Group Pricing Plan
30:34 Pioneering Cohort-Based Learning
33:53 AI's Impact on Online Courses
38:48 Innovate or Strategize for Success
40:31 "Invaluable Insights and Connections"
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RECOMMENDED NEXT EPISODE
→ #247: How you can plan for growth in 2025
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