SHS069: How This Video Editor Makes Over $20,000 A Month On Fiverr With Mark From Mark Studios
Intro
Video editing is one of those skills that can potentially turn into a profitable side hustle or even a full-time business. But knowing how to edit videos is only one part of the equation. You also need to know how to find clients, price your services, and turn one-time projects into recurring income.
In this episode of The Side Hustler’s Society, Elijah sits down with Mark Santos, founder of Mark Studios, to discuss how he built a successful video editing business using platforms like Fiverr while also developing a client base outside of those platforms.
Whether you're just learning how to edit videos or you're already freelancing and looking to grow, Mark shares valuable insights into what it takes to build a sustainable business.
Intro to Mark Santos
Mark Santos is the founder of Mark Studios, a video production and editing business based in Palm Beach County, Florida.
Mark started making videos on YouTube when he was just 10 years old. His channel eventually grew to more than 200,000 subscribers and 10 million views. During the pandemic, he began selling his video editing services on Fiverr, eventually turning that side hustle into a full-fledged business.
Since founding Mark Studios in 2021, Mark has completed more than 8,000 orders for over 4,500 clients. He has also become a top-rated Fiverr seller and even rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange with Fiverr in February 2025.
Episode Overview
In this episode, Mark shares how he went from editing videos as a hobby to building a business that generates substantial monthly revenue through both Fiverr and his own website.
The conversation covers the advantages of starting on freelance platforms, how to eventually attract clients independently, and why offering recurring services can be more profitable than constantly chasing one-time projects.
Elijah and Mark also discuss pricing strategies, lead generation, using AI to improve business operations, and knowing when it's time to build a team.
If you've been considering video editing as a side hustle or want to turn your existing editing skills into a business, this episode is packed with practical advice.
Listen to the Episode
Check us out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! While you’re there, hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episodes!
The Side Hustler's Society Resources
Want to learn how to edit videos yourself? Check out Elijah's iMovie Video Editing Course here.
Need a professional to handle your next editing project? You can hire Elijah directly here.
Quick Takeaways
Freelance platforms can be a great starting point. Fiverr and Upwork can help new editors gain experience, build a reputation, and attract their first clients.
Don't rely on one source of leads. Developing your own website, social media presence, advertising, and business relationships can help you attract clients independently.
Focus on recurring revenue. Monthly editing packages can create more predictable income than constantly searching for one-time projects.
Charge per project instead of per hour. Project-based pricing allows you to benefit from becoming more efficient at your work.
Use AI to improve your business. AI can help with marketing, administrative work, research, and other tasks that consume valuable time.
Build a team when demand exceeds your capacity. When you're consistently turning down work or working excessive hours, it may be time to expand.
Starting Your Video Editing Journey on Fiverr
Mark's journey into professional video editing began during the pandemic. After losing his university IT assistant job when everything shut down, he needed another way to generate income.
Since he had been editing videos for years, he decided to turn that skill into a service. He created his first Fiverr gig and began offering video editing to customers.
Over time, he built an impressive profile with thousands of reviews and completed orders. Today, Fiverr generates approximately $20,000 to $30,000 per month for his business.
One reason Mark continues using Fiverr, even though he has his own website, is that the platform brings him customers who are already interested in purchasing editing services.
Having thousands of reviews also helps establish credibility. Instead of spending time convincing every potential customer that he's qualified, many people who contact him are already familiar with his reputation and ready to buy.
For someone just getting started, this demonstrates how freelance platforms can provide an opportunity to develop skills, build a portfolio, and generate income.
How to Transition From Fiverr to Getting Your Own Clients
Although Fiverr has been a major source of business for Mark, he also operates Mark Studios independently.
His website generates approximately $10,000 to $20,000 per month, giving him another significant source of revenue.
However, attracting customers independently requires a different approach. When someone finds Mark through Fiverr, they already have some trust in his services because of the platform's reviews and reputation system.
When someone discovers his business through his website, Mark has to establish that trust himself.
His recommendation for editors who want to move beyond freelance platforms is to become more visible. This includes:
Building a professional website.
Creating content on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms.
Appearing on podcasts and networking with other business owners.
Sending cold emails and making cold calls.
Running paid advertising campaigns through platforms like Meta, Google, and Bing.
Mark also recommends using AI to help with tasks like building websites and conducting outreach.
The important lesson is that getting clients outside of Fiverr requires becoming responsible for your own marketing and lead generation.
How to Turn One-Time Clients Into Recurring Revenue
One of the biggest challenges new video editors face is constantly having to find new customers.
They complete one project, get paid, and then have to start the entire process over again.
Mark explains that one solution is to develop service packages that make sense for businesses that need content consistently.
For example, instead of simply offering to edit one video, an editor could offer a monthly package that includes video editing, social media management, posting, and thumbnail design.
A business owner might be willing to pay $2,000 to $4,000 per month for someone to handle these responsibilities so they can focus on running their business.
However, the offer alone isn't enough. Mark emphasizes that editors need to provide actual value and help clients achieve results.
He also recommends looking for customers who already have a history of consistently publishing content. Someone who has never posted videos before may not understand the commitment involved, and many people eventually stop creating content.
Finding clients who are already committed to producing content can make it easier to establish long-term working relationships.
How Should Video Editors Price Their Services?
Another important discussion in this episode is how video editors should charge for their work.
There are several common approaches, including hourly pricing, per-project pricing, and monthly retainers.
Mark is not a fan of hourly pricing because it can penalize editors for becoming more efficient. As you gain experience, you naturally become faster at completing projects. Charging by the hour means you could actually earn less for delivering the same quality of work more efficiently.
His recommendation for newer editors is to start with project-based pricing.
One approach is to offer a potential client a test edit. When Mark was first getting started, he frequently offered free test edits to demonstrate his abilities and help close new customers.
Once a client sees the quality of the work, the editor has an opportunity to secure additional projects or transition into a recurring monthly arrangement.
The key is to deliver excellent work, communicate effectively, and demonstrate why the client should continue working with you.
Using AI to Grow Your Video Editing Business
AI was another major topic in this conversation. Mark believes freelancers and business owners should make an effort to stay current with the latest AI technology.
He even created a website called Artificial Watch, which notifies subscribers when new AI models are released.
Mark also discussed how he uses AI to handle tasks that previously required hiring virtual assistants. He explained that he had previously employed four virtual assistants but was able to replace many of those responsibilities with AI.
However, he doesn't believe AI can completely replace human editors.
He points out that video editing involves creative decisions that require human judgment, such as understanding the emotion of music, selecting the right moments, and making sure voiceovers sound natural.
AI can certainly improve productivity, but editors still need to provide the creative value that customers expect.
For new editors, the takeaway is to embrace AI as a tool that can make running a business easier without assuming it can replace the skills that make a good editor valuable.
When Is It Time to Build a Video Editing Team?
Eventually, a successful freelancer may reach a point where there simply isn't enough time to handle every project personally.
Mark believes this is when it's time to consider building a team.
Some signs include consistently turning down new work, working extremely long hours, or having more projects than one person can reasonably complete.
Mark has built a team of editors and still maintains human support for customer communication. He believes that certain aspects of customer service benefit from having a real person involved, especially when a client needs to discuss a project or work through a problem.
For editors who aren't ready to hire employees, Elijah also recommends building relationships with other freelancers and establishing referral arrangements.
That way, when an editor receives more work than they can handle, they can refer projects to other professionals and potentially earn a referral commission.
Mark shared that Mark Studios has an affiliate program that pays 20% of the payments generated by customers referred to the business.
This demonstrates another way video editors can generate income by developing relationships within their industry.
Who This Episode Is For
This episode is especially useful for:
New video editors: Learn how to turn editing skills into a profitable side hustle.
Fiverr and Upwork freelancers: Discover how to build a strong reputation and eventually attract clients outside freelance platforms.
Freelancers looking for recurring income: Learn how to develop monthly service packages and long-term client relationships.
Video editors struggling with lead generation: Explore websites, social media, cold outreach, advertising, and networking as ways to find customers.
Freelancers interested in AI: Understand how AI can help streamline business operations and improve productivity.
Editors ready to scale: Learn when to hire help, build a team, and transition from freelancing into running a production company.
Key Topics Covered
How Mark Santos started editing videos as a child
Turning video editing into a side hustle during the pandemic
How to build a successful Fiverr profile
The advantages of using Fiverr to generate leads
Building a video editing business outside freelance platforms
How to generate recurring revenue through monthly retainers
Hourly pricing versus project-based pricing
Using free test edits to acquire new clients
Lead generation through cold outreach and paid advertising
How AI can help video editors run their businesses
Knowing when to build a video editing team
Creating referral and affiliate programs for additional revenue
Watch the Podcast on YouTube!
SHS068: How Do You Get An ROI From A $1,000 Vidsummit Ticket? Lets Talk!
Intro
Attending a major creator conference like VidSummit can be a significant investment. Between the ticket, travel, lodging, and other expenses, you could easily spend thousands of dollars just to attend.
But how do you make sure that investment actually pays off?
In this episode of The Side Hustler’s Society, host Elijah Bilel brings together a panel of creators to discuss how they approached VidSummit, what they gained from attending, and how other creators can maximize their own experience.
If you've been thinking about attending VidSummit 2027, this conversation can help you approach the event with a plan instead of simply showing up and hoping for the best.
Thinking about attending VidSummit 2027? Get your ticket here and start planning how you'll make the most of the experience.
Panelists
Elijah Bilel – Panel Host and Founder of The Side Hustler's Society
👉 Check out The Side Hustler's Society YouTube channel hereJoe’s Phenomenal
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereGregory
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereMicheal
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereMetal For Breakfast
👉 Check out their YouTube channel hereRedRomina
👉 Check out her YouTube channel here
Episode Overview
In this panel discussion, the group explores what it actually means to get a return on investment from attending VidSummit.
Each panelist approaches the event differently. Some focus on generating business leads, others prioritize networking, brand partnerships, community building, or simply gaining the knowledge and motivation needed to grow their channels.
The discussion also covers how to prepare for a conference, why networking shouldn't stop when the event ends, how to negotiate better brand deals, and why creators should focus on serving their audiences instead of chasing views alone.
If you're planning to attend VidSummit 2027, this episode will give you several practical ideas to help make your investment worthwhile.
Listen to the Episode
Check us out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! While you’re there, hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episodes!
Quick Takeaways
Have a goal before attending. Decide whether you're looking for clients, brand deals, collaborations, knowledge, or new business opportunities.
Be intentional about networking. Reach out to people before the conference and make an effort to attend events where you can meet other creators.
Follow up after the conference. Building relationships between annual events can create more value than simply exchanging contact information.
Learn how to negotiate brand deals. Don't automatically accept the first offer a brand gives you. Understand your value and negotiate opportunities that can become long-term partnerships.
Know your audience. Understanding who you're creating content for makes it easier to develop videos that attract the right viewers and customers.
Don't let views define your success. Smaller audiences can still generate meaningful business opportunities when your content serves the right people.
How to Calculate Your VidSummit ROI
One of the biggest takeaways from this discussion is that there isn't one universal definition of a successful VidSummit experience.
For some creators, the return comes from landing a brand deal. For others, it might be finding new clients, generating leads, making valuable connections, or learning something that helps grow their business.
RedRomina and her team approached the event with a specific goal: bringing more creators into Create IRL and getting people involved in their events. They were able to generate hundreds of new members and host approximately 12 events during the conference week.
Other creators focused on different opportunities. One panelist discussed generating nearly 40 business leads by intentionally attending networking opportunities and making connections.
The important lesson is to determine what a successful conference looks like for you before you arrive. When you have a clear objective, it's easier to recognize opportunities and measure whether the investment was worthwhile.
Networking Doesn't Stop When VidSummit Ends
One of the challenges of attending a conference is maintaining the relationships you build once everyone goes home.
Gregory discussed how he wanted to change his approach this year by creating more opportunities to stay connected with the people he met. That led to the creation of a creator implementation club where attendees could continue sharing resources, discussing business strategies, and holding each other accountable.
RedRomina also discussed how Create IRL helps creators connect throughout the year instead of waiting for the next VidSummit.
Micheal took a different approach. By intentionally attending networking opportunities and looking for ways to connect with other creators, he generated nearly 40 business leads for hist new business launchProd.
The important lesson is to determine what a successful conference looks like for you before you arrive. When you have a clear objective, it's easier to recognize opportunities and measure whether the investment was worthwhile.
This is an important lesson for anyone attending a conference: exchanging contact information is only the beginning. The real value comes from continuing those relationships and finding ways to collaborate, support one another, and create opportunities together.
Ready to experience VidSummit for yourself? Don't wait until the last minute to start planning. Get your VidSummit 2027 ticket here.
Learn How to Negotiate Better Brand Deals
Brand sponsorships can be a major source of income for content creators, but knowing how to negotiate is an important part of maximizing those opportunities.
Joe discussed how brands may initially approach creators without offering payment. It's up to the creator to understand their value, communicate that value, and negotiate appropriate compensation.
The panel also discussed the importance of thinking beyond a single sponsored video. Instead of treating every opportunity as a one-time transaction, creators can look for ways to build longer-term relationships with brands.
The book The Sponsor Magnet was also mentioned during the conversation as a resource for learning how to approach sponsorships and negotiate better deals.
The bigger lesson is that creators shouldn't assume the first offer is the best offer. Learning how to communicate with brands and negotiate effectively can have a significant impact on their earning potential.
Stop Chasing Views and Start Serving Your Audience
Another major discussion centered on the pressure creators face to constantly generate more views and go viral.
Metal For Breakfast discussed how watching Jordan Matter present at VidSummit gave him a new appreciation for audience retention and the amount of thought that goes into keeping viewers engaged.
RedRomina shared an interesting approach to experimenting with content: testing new ideas through YouTube Shorts before investing the time and resources required to produce long-form videos.
Gregory emphasized the importance of understanding your ideal audience. Without knowing who you're trying to reach, you could spend a lot of time creating content that attracts the wrong people.
Elijah also shared his own experience with this. After producing a 10-part VidSummit series, he realized that even though the videos received relatively low views compared to his usual content, they had a significant impact on the people who watched them.
Those viewers were engaging with the content, attending VidSummit because of the information, and eventually supporting his business through consultations, affiliate marketing, and products.
The lesson is that views aren't the only measurement of success. Sometimes a smaller audience that genuinely values your content can create more meaningful business opportunities.
Want to be part of the next VidSummit? Grab your VidSummit 2027 ticket here.
Who This Episode Is For
This episode is especially useful for:
Creators considering VidSummit: Learn how to approach the event with a plan and make your ticket investment worthwhile.
Content creators looking for brand deals: Discover why negotiation skills and long-term brand relationships matter.
YouTubers struggling with networking: Learn how to approach other creators and build relationships that continue beyond conferences.
Creators looking to diversify their income: Explore opportunities beyond traditional advertising revenue.
Entrepreneurs building a personal brand: Understand how to turn content, networking, and community into business opportunities.
Creators feeling discouraged by views: Learn why serving the right audience can be more valuable than chasing viral content.
Key Topics Covered
How to calculate the return on investment of attending VidSummit
Setting goals before attending a creator conference
Networking and generating business leads
How Create IRL used VidSummit to grow its creator community
Building relationships that last beyond the conference
The importance of brand sponsorship negotiations
How to approach content experiments using YouTube Shorts
Understanding your ideal audience and customer avatar
Managing the mental challenges of being a content creator
Why quality of views can matter more than quantity
Creating revenue opportunities beyond YouTube advertising
Watch the Podcast on YouTube!
SHS049: VidSummit Review 2025: Is It Improving Each Time Or Getting Worse? Lets Talk!
Intro
VidSummit 2025 is officially in the books…
And as someone who has now attended multiple times, Elijah Bilel is back with another breakdown—this time with a panel and direct insight from speakers and long-time attendees.
This was Elijah’s third VidSummit, and instead of just reviewing the event, this episode goes deeper:
👉 How do you actually leverage VidSummit to grow your business?
Because attending is one thing…
👉 But maximizing it is something completely different
Going to this year's vidsummit? Click here to get your ticket and be part of Elijah's vidsummit crew during the event!
Commentary From Speakers & VidSummit Vets
Before diving into the panel, Elijah gathered insights from experienced creators and keynote speakers on one key question:
👉 How should someone leverage VidSummit for the first time?
Roberto Blake
Roberto makes something very clear:
👉 VidSummit is for people who are serious about content creation
His Key Advice
Prioritize community over sessions
You’ll get access to recordings anyway
Focus on meeting people and building relationships
Big Insight
👉 You can’t attend every session
But you CAN:
👉 Maximize your time with people
Hidden Opportunity
Smaller meetups within the event
Creator groups (vloggers, short-form creators, niche communities)
Organic conversations with high-level creators
👉 Learn more about Roberto Blake and his work here
Nick Nimmin
Nick reinforces that VidSummit is different from other events:
👉 It’s designed for creators who are actually serious
His Key Advice
Bring a notepad
Capture ideas constantly
Take advantage of both sessions AND conversations
Key Insight
👉 Learning doesn’t stop when sessions end
Even late at night:
Creators are still talking
Sharing ideas
Giving feedback
👉 Follow Nick Nimmin here
Andrew Kan
Andrew, a long-time attendee, highlights something simple but powerful:
His Advice
👉 Talk to people
Why This Matters
Everyone is there for a reason
There’s very little ego
Even top creators are accessible
Real Insight
👉 Opportunities often come from conversations people are too afraid to start
👉 Follow Andrew Kan here
Elijah’s Personal Strategy (And What Actually Works)
After hearing from the speakers, Elijah shares his own approach:
👉 Network FIRST, consume content SECOND
His Recommendation
Attend 20–30% of sessions
Spend 70–80% of time networking
Why
Because:
👉 The real value is in the relationships
Real Example from the Event
Elijah hosted a DFW creator meetup using the event app:
Started with ~12 people
More creators kept joining
Eventually took over an entire area
The Lesson
👉 Opportunities compound when you engage
If you’re looking to build your content, expand into multiple channels, and actually turn your ideas into income-producing platforms like Elijah did, you can learn the same systems inside Awesome Creator Academy Here .
Panel Cast
Host:
Elijah Bilel – Founder of The Side Hustler’s Society
Panelists:
Joe’s Phenomenal
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereAshia
👉 Check out her YouTube channel hereDelo
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereMatthew
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereRebecca
👉 Check out her YouTube channel hereGregory
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereYuly
👉 Check out her YouTube channel hereBranko
👉 Learn more about his work here
Episode Overview
In this panel discussion, we break down:
Overall impressions of VidSummit 2025
Whether the event is improving or changing
How creators are leveraging the experience
The importance of networking vs learning
What attendees should do differently next time
Listen to the Episode
Check us out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! While you’re there, hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episodes!
The Real Value of VidSummit (From the Panel)
A consistent theme throughout the discussion:
👉 VidSummit is not just about information
It’s About Environment
Being around serious creators
Sharing ideas in real time
Getting feedback instantly
Why This Matters
You can learn online…
But you can’t replicate:
👉 Real-time collaboration
The App Advantage (Underrated Strategy)
One thing highlighted in this episode:
👉 Using the event app (Hoova) strategically
What It Allows You To Do
Discover meetups
Ask speakers questions
Find niche communities
Key Insight
👉 The event is bigger than the schedule
What Most People Do Wrong
The panel makes this clear:
👉 People try to attend everything
The Problem
They miss conversations
They miss opportunities
They overwhelm themselves
The Better Approach
👉 Be selective
👉 Be intentional
The Bigger Takeaway
This episode reinforces a powerful idea:
👉 VidSummit rewards action
Not Just Attendance
Talk to people
Join conversations
Create opportunities
Because at the end of the day
👉 Access is given
👉 Results are earned
If you’re serious about building a creator-based business and want a structured way to grow, monetize, and expand like Elijah did—from one channel to multiple income streams—you can get started inside Awesome Creator Academy Here .
Final Thoughts
VidSummit 2025 delivered on one key principle:
👉 The value is there—but only if you use it
Best Way to Approach It
Focus on people
Leverage the environment
Follow up after
Because ultimately
👉 The biggest opportunities don’t come from watching
👉 They come from engaging
Watch The Podcast On Youtube!
SHS030: VidSummit Review 2024: Was It Yay Or Nay?
Intro
What is VidSummit actually like?
Is it worth going?
And more importantly…
👉 Can it actually change your trajectory as a content creator?
In this bonus panel episode, Elijah Bilel brings together a group of creators to break down their real experiences at VidSummit 2024—from networking and opportunities to what most people get wrong when attending events like this.
Going to this year's vidsummit? Click here to get your ticket and be part of Elijah's vidsummit crew during the event!
Panel Cast
Host:
Elijah Bilel – Founder of The Side Hustler’s Society
Panelists:
Gregory Rutledge – Creator behind Question Everything
👉 Check out his YouTube channel hereDejion – Sound Engineer & Creative
👉 Connect with him on Instagram hereYuly Torres – Creator behind Engineer Your Fleet
👉 Check out her YouTube channel hereKelly Harada – Creator behind My Love Letter To Books
👉 Check out her YouTube channel hereDavid Gaines – Creator behind Applied Ascension
👉 Check out his YouTube channel here
Episode Overview
In this panel discussion, we break down:
What VidSummit is really like behind the scenes
Why networking is more valuable than the presentations
The unexpected opportunities that come from showing up
How content can influence people in ways you don’t see
The importance of owning your audience (email lists, platforms, etc.)
What creators should do differently when attending events
Listen to the Episode
Check us out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! While you’re there, hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episodes!
The Power of Content (Real Proof from VidSummit)
One of the most impactful moments from this episode comes directly from Elijah’s experience at the event.
👉 People recognized him from his VidSummit video
👉 And showed up because of it
As shared in the episode, someone literally watched his video multiple times—and even had it sent to them again by a friend before attending
The Bigger Lesson
👉 You don’t always see the impact of your content
But that doesn’t mean it’s not happening
Key Takeaway
Content can:
Influence decisions
Bring people into rooms
Create opportunities before you even arrive
Why VidSummit Is Really About Networking
While VidSummit is known for its presentations…
The panel reinforces something important:
👉 The REAL value is in the hallways
Elijah’s Strategy
Elijah Bilel intentionally spent most of his time:
Networking
Having conversations
Building relationships
The Result
Multiple podcast guests secured
New business opportunities
Sponsorship conversations
Key Insight
👉 Events don’t pay off because you attend
👉 They pay off because of how you show up
The Hidden Opportunity Most Creators Miss
A major theme throughout the discussion:
👉 Most creators attend events passively
What That Looks Like
Sitting in sessions all day
Not talking to people
Not building relationships
What Actually Works
Being intentional
Starting conversations
Following up
Because at the end of the day
👉 Relationships = opportunities
Owning Your Audience (A Critical Lesson)
Another key takeaway from the episode:
👉 You don’t own your audience on platforms
Why This Matters
If something happens to:
Your YouTube channel
Your social media
👉 You lose access instantly
The Solution
👉 Build an email list
👉 Own the relationship
If you’re serious about building a sustainable content business and learning how to grow, monetize, and protect your platform long-term, you can join Roberto Blake's Awesome Creator Academy Here . Elijah has been a member for years and the system he uses to launch ad sustain all of his youtube channels, he learned in this academy
Pros of VidSummit (From the Discussion)
Across the panel, several benefits stood out:
1. Networking Opportunities
High-level creators in one place
Easy access to conversations
Organic collaboration potential
2. Business Opportunities
Sponsorships
Partnerships
Client relationships
3. Exposure
People recognizing your content
Building credibility in real life
Cons of VidSummit
The panel also highlights a few drawbacks:
1. Scheduling Conflicts
👉 You often have to choose between:
Networking
Presentations
2. Limited Time
Not enough breaks for networking
Packed schedule
3. Missing Key Creators
Some expected creators weren’t present, which can impact:
Networking expectations
Value perception
The Biggest Takeaway from This Panel
If there’s one thing this episode makes clear:
👉 Content + proximity = opportunity
Breakdown
Content gets you recognized
Proximity turns that recognition into opportunity
And When You Combine Both
👉 That’s where real growth happens
Why You Should Be Creating Content (Even If You’re Hesitant)
This episode reinforces something critical:
👉 You never know who’s watching
And More Importantly
👉 You don’t know how your content is influencing decisions
So Instead of Waiting
👉 Hit record
👉 Share your thoughts
👉 Build your presence
If you want to take your content seriously and learn how to turn it into real income, opportunities, and long-term growth, you can get access to the Awesome Creator Academy that Elijah is a part o by clicking Here .
Final Thoughts
This panel highlights a powerful reality:
👉 Events like VidSummit are multipliers
But Only If You Use Them Right
Talk to people
Build relationships
Create content consistently
Because at the end of the day
👉 Opportunities don’t come from watching
👉 They come from participating
Watch The Podcast On Youtube!
SHS017: How Public Speaking Boosts Your Business In 2026 With Brenden Kumarasamy From Mastertalk
Intro
Public speaking is one of the most overlooked skills in business today.
With the rise of social media, livestreaming, and digital content, many people assume that traditional communication skills aren’t as important anymore.
But in this episode of The Side Hustler’s Society, Elijah Bilel breaks down why that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Whether you’re building a side hustle, freelancing, or scaling a full-time business, your ability to communicate effectively can directly impact your income, relationships, and opportunities.
Subscribe To Elijah's New Youtube Channel, Social Dynamics
Find out the different ways that Elijah teaches to grow your network, plan events with big turnouts and advance in your career by cultivating the right relationships. Click here to join out newsletter and get started!
Intro to Brenden Kumarasamy From MasterTalk
Founder of MasterTalk, a platform focused on improving communication and public speaking
Coaches executives and entrepreneurs to become top-tier communicators
Built a successful coaching business centered around communication skills
Known for simplifying public speaking strategies for everyday professionals
Runs the YouTube channel MasterTalk where he shares free communication training
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBYFP4mZLQovr7W6Si6sueA
Episode Overview
This episode dives deep into how communication—and specifically public speaking—can:
Increase your income
Improve your ability to sell
Help you build stronger relationships
Position you as an authority in your space
Brendan shares how he went from competing in presentation competitions to building a full business around communication—and why this skill is essential for anyone serious about success.
Listen to the Episode
Check us out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! While you’re there, hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episodes!
Side Hustler’s Society Resources
Side Hustle to Full-Time Strategy Session
Financial Personality Success Bundle
Quick Takeaways
Elijah Bilel emphasizes communication as a key business skill
Public speaking is a powerful tool for lead generation
Brendan explains how communication accelerates success in any field
Sales and communication are directly connected
Entrepreneurs must improve communication as they scale
Strong communication improves both business and personal relationships
Public speaking can be monetized as its own income stream
Many entrepreneurs are “made,” not born
Side hustles can evolve into full-time businesses over time
High-income skills create flexibility and freedom
Why Public Speaking Matters in Business
1. Communication Drives Income
At the core of every business:
👉 Sales = Income
And sales depend heavily on:
How clearly you explain your offer
How well you connect with your audience
How confidently you present value
Public speaking enhances all of these.
2. It Builds Authority
When you can:
Speak confidently
Present ideas clearly
Educate an audience
You naturally position yourself as:
👉 An expert
And that leads to:
More trust
More opportunities
Higher-paying clients
3. It Improves Every Area of Life
Brendan makes a key point:
👉 Communication impacts everything
Business
Relationships
Networking
Leadership
This isn’t just a business skill—it’s a life skill.
Brendan’s Journey Into Entrepreneurship
1. It Didn’t Start With Business
Brendan didn’t initially plan to become an entrepreneur.
He:
Studied business
Wanted a corporate career
Competed in “case competitions” (presentation-based business challenges)
These competitions helped him:
Develop elite communication skills
Present ideas under pressure
Learn how to persuade decision-makers
2. MasterTalk Was Built From Passion
He started creating content simply to:
Help others improve communication
Share knowledge that wasn’t easily accessible
Over time:
The content gained traction
He met the right business partner
He learned how to monetize his expertise
And eventually:
👉 It became a full business
3. Entrepreneurs Are Often Made, Not Born
Brendan highlights an important distinction:
Some people are naturally entrepreneurial
Others become entrepreneurs through experience
His journey shows that:
👉 You don’t need to start as an entrepreneur to become one
Public Speaking as a Business Growth Tool
1. Lead Generation
Speaking allows you to:
Build trust quickly
Showcase expertise
Connect with audiences at scale
That’s why Elijah Bilel points out:
👉 Public speaking can be one of the strongest lead generation tools available
2. Scaling Your Business
As your business grows:
You hire employees
You manage teams
You delegate tasks
If your communication isn’t strong:
Things get misunderstood
Execution suffers
Growth slows down
Strong communication = smoother scaling
3. Relationship Building
Success is heavily tied to:
👉 The quality of your relationships
Public speaking improves your ability to:
Connect with people
Build trust
Communicate vision
Side Hustles, Skills & Communication
A major theme in this episode:
👉 Skills create opportunity
Whether it’s:
Video editing
Accounting
Public speaking
A strong skill set allows you to:
Get a job
Freelance
Start a business
Scale into an agency
But communication is the multiplier.
Key Lessons from the Episode
1. Communication Is a Force Multiplier
No matter what you do:
👉 Better communication = better results
2. Start With a Skill
High-income skills give you:
Stability
Flexibility
Options
3. Build Before You Leap
Brendan spent years:
Building content
Testing ideas
Growing his platform
Before going full-time.
4. Public Speaking Is a High-Leverage Skill
It helps you:
Sell
Lead
Influence
Scale
Who This Episode Is For
Side hustlers looking to grow income
Freelancers wanting more clients
Entrepreneurs scaling their business
Anyone looking to improve communication skills
Key Topics Covered
Public speaking strategies from Brendan from MasterTalk
Business insights from Elijah Bilel
How communication impacts income and growth
Turning a skill into a business
Scaling through better communication
Watch The Podcast On Youtube!
SHS014: How Omari Harebin Grew His Affiliate Marketing Business To $4000 A Month!
Intro
Affiliate marketing is one of the most misunderstood ways to make money online.
Some people think it’s a scam. Others think it’s passive income with no work.
So what’s the truth?
In this episode of The Side Hustler’s Society, Elijah Bilel sits down with a seasoned expert to break it all down—from beginner strategies to advanced insights.
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Intro to Omari Harebin
Founder of sqspthemes.com (a leading directory of Squarespace templates)
Digital entrepreneur who has generated over $1M in digital product sales
Specialist in affiliate marketing and digital products
Creator of the Digital Alchemy Lab community
Has been building online income streams since 2014
👉 Website: https://sqspthemes.com
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/OmariHarebin
Episode Overview
The conversation starts with a simple but important question:
👉 Is affiliate marketing a scam?
Both Elijah and Omari agree:
No—it’s not a scam. But it is misunderstood.
Affiliate marketing is simply:
Promoting a product or service
Earning a commission when someone buys through your link
Companies already have advertising budgets—they’re just choosing to pay based on results instead of upfront.
And that shift creates a huge opportunity.
🚀 Want to Become a Content Creator the Right Way?
If you’re serious about building a brand and making money as a creator:
👉 Join Awesome Creator Academy today!
This is one of the best places to learn:
How to grow your audience
How to monetize your content
How to build a real business as a creator
Click here to get started!
Listen to the Episode
Check us out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! While you’re there, hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest episodes!
Side Hustler’s Society Resources
Financial Personality Success Bundle
Quick Takeaways
Affiliate marketing is performance-based income—not a scam
Elijah explains how referral income outperformed AdSense early on
You don’t need a huge audience to get started
Trust with your audience is your biggest asset
Content acts like a long-term income-producing asset
You can create affiliate partnerships—even if they don’t exist yet
Freelancing can fund your transition into affiliate income
SEO + content marketing are powerful for long-term growth
Passive income takes time—it’s not instant
Your everyday purchases can become income opportunities
Affiliate Marketing vs Traditional Work
One of the most important distinctions discussed:
👉 Traditional jobs pay you for time
👉 Affiliate marketing pays you for results
As Elijah explains, in a typical job:
You can generate sales
But your pay doesn’t change
With affiliate marketing:
If you drive a sale, you get paid
Why Affiliate Marketing Feels “Shady” to Some People
Omari shares an interesting perspective:
Many people dismiss affiliate marketing early because:
It sounds too good to be true
It doesn’t fit the “work → paycheck” model
Some promoters make unrealistic claims
He even admits he ignored it for years before taking it seriously.
The Turning Point: Passive Income Is Real
At one point, Omari logged into an old affiliate account and found:
👉 $444 waiting for him
He didn’t even remember placing the link.
That moment validated the model:
👉 Content + links = income over time
The Real Strategy: Content as an Asset
One of the most powerful ideas from this episode:
👉 Every piece of content is a seed
You create it once
It lives online forever
It can generate income years later
This is where affiliate marketing becomes powerful.
How to Get Started with Affiliate Marketing
Omari breaks it down into two key steps:
1. Build a Marketing Channel
You need a platform where people can find you:
YouTube
Blog
TikTok
Instagram
Consistency is key.
2. Promote What You Already Use
Instead of chasing random products:
👉 Start with what you already use and recommend
Ask yourself:
What do people ask you about?
What tools do you use daily?
What do you naturally recommend?
Then:
Join their affiliate programs
Share your real experience
Advanced Insight: Creating Your Own Affiliate Deals
Omari didn’t just join affiliate programs…
👉 He helped create them
He would:
Identify products his audience needed
Reach out to creators
Set up affiliate partnerships
Sometimes those programs didn’t even exist yet.
Affiliate Marketing vs Freelancing
A key comparison in the episode:
Freelancing
Faster income
Active work
Requires client interaction
Affiliate Marketing
Slower to start
Passive over time
Scales with content
Elijah Bilel shares that freelancing helped fund his transition into:
YouTube
Affiliate income
Multiple income streams
The Biggest Mistake Beginners Make
👉 Expecting quick results
Affiliate marketing is:
A long-term strategy
A content-driven model
A patience game
The “Consumption → Production” Mindset
One of the strongest concepts from the episode:
👉 Turn everything you consume into something that pays you
Use a tool → get the affiliate link
Recommend it → earn commissions
Create content → scale it
Who This Episode Is For
Beginners curious about affiliate marketing
Content creators not making money yet
Freelancers looking to scale income
Anyone who wants passive income online
Key Topics Covered
Affiliate marketing myths vs reality
Building passive income with content
How Omari Harebin approaches partnerships
Transitioning from freelancing to scalable income
How Elijah Bilel builds income streams