AI isn’t replacing creatives, those who embrace AI are. In this eye‑opening episode of Minding My Creative Business, hosts Ron “iRonic” Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks chat with Kierra Dotson, an AI engineer, data conversationalist and entrepreneur. They explore how creative business owners can leverage data and AI to work smarter, not harder. A 2025 survey found that AI adoption among small businesses jumped from 39 % to 55 % in a year, with 80 % of users saying AI is essential for reaching new customers. Kierra explains why now is the time to join that movement and build AI into your workflow.

You’ll learn how both product and service‑based businesses can collect, analyze and act on data to boost sales and customer engagement. Kierra shares her favorite AI tools—from generative design platforms like Adobe Express and Descript to customer‑service bots like Freshdesk and CRM assistants like Salesforce’s Agentforce Assistant—that make marketing, inventory management and video editing easier. She also highlights ethical challenges such as algorithmic bias—like how past AI systems have favored male résumés or misidentified women of color and offers strategies to ensure fairness through diverse data and oversight.

The conversation covers advanced topics like generative AI SEO and “AI Overviews,” which now appear in nearly half of search results, why only a few companies are realizing extraordinary value from AI and how a disciplined, top‑down strategy can unlock transformation; and how to adopt a CEO mindset by reviewing your metrics, systematizing creativity, and embracing PGR (Purpose, Growth, Rest). Whether you’re a boutique owner or a videographer, this episode will help you harness AI and data while staying human at the core.

🕒 Episode Chapters

0:00 – Empowering early AI adoption

4:49 – Everyday AI applications explained

9:18 – AI ethics: inclusion and bias

12:55 – Data drives business success

14:56 – Leveraging data for business insights

16:43 – AI for R&D and growth

22:29 – Optimize captions & analyze insights

26:20 – Optimizing service businesses with data

29:09 – Creative event planning tips

32:46 – Understanding metrics and traffic insights

34:27 – AI‑adapting job descriptions

39:18 – Using AI for trend analysis

41:08 – Creative ideation and event planning

45:24 – “Loable”: fast, secure startup tool

48:49 – Personalized shopping simplified

50:40 – Strategic AI development framework

53:54 – AI, business, and transformation

🔑 Key Points

• Why AI matters now: A 2025 survey found AI usage among small businesses surged 41 % in a year, and 80 % of users say it’s essential for customer growth. Companies implementing AI wisely are seeing savings of 20 + hours per month and $500–$2,000 monthly

• Make AI work for you: Tools like Adobe Express, Descript, Freshdesk Freddy AI Copilot, Salesforce Agentforce Assistant and Microsoft 365 Copilot help creatives design marketing assets, edit videos, automate customer service, and analyze data without technical expertise

• Data ethics and inclusivity: Past AI systems have reinforced bias (e.g., Amazon’s hiring algorithm favoring male résumés and image recognition misidentifying women of color). Kiara discusses building inclusive data sets, diverse teams, and responsible AI frameworks.

• AI‑driven search & SEO: AI Overviews appear in nearly half of search results. Optimize content for conversational queries and generative engine optimization.

• CEO mindset: Move from creator to CEO by setting clear goals, measuring what matters, and adopting a PGR framework (Purpose, Growth, Rest). A top‑down, disciplined AI strategy and focused workflows are key to transformative value.

🔗 Links & Resources:

• Creative to CEO...

Talent alone won’t build a thriving business—you must value yourself and your craft. In this episode of Minding My Creative Business, hosts Ron “iRonic” Lee Jr. and ShySpeaks sit down with acclaimed photographer Tolulope Berry (T Berry Pictures) to explore how he turned a gift from his mother into a flourishing photography empire. The conversation covers valuing your work, building sustainable systems, and adopting a CEO mindset. In today’s creative economy, passion isn’t enough: a 2025 report notes that design services remain in high demand but that agencies must embrace new tools and strategic pricing to stay competitive. Another 2025 article warns that designers often underprice their services and need business literacy to defend their worth.

You’ll hear how Tolulope transitioned from hobbyist to professional by investing in his skills, pricing based on value, and creating clear client processes. He shares systems for client on-boarding, contracts, and file delivery that help maintain integrity and reliability. The hosts also discuss why “slow motion is better than no motion,” how networking and signature edits attract premium clients, and why building a team (re-toucher, manager, assistant, lawyer) is essential for scaling. The conversation highlights the broader industry context: as digital transformation opens doors, competition intensifies and creatives must balance artistry with business strategy. Studies show that 36 % of businesses hired freelance designers in the past year and that thriving agencies integrate strategy consulting (81 %), copy writing (77 %) and AI tools to remain relevant. Embracing this mindset will help you build a sustainable, scalable and enjoyable creative career.

🕒 Episode Chapters

0:00 – From hobby to photography business

4:44 – Learning photography through experimentation

8:38 – Valuing myself and my craft

11:22 – Reaching a sustainable salary

15:59 – AI revolutionizes networking efficiency 1

9:20 – Client experience and workflow process

21:42 – Photo rights and editing process

23:23 – Integrity in client experience

26:32 – Favorite editing & upload tools

30:29 – Talent vs. intangibles balance

33:04 – Vibes matter in creative work

37:31 – Teamwork gets the job done

39:48 – Creative to CEO challenge

44:56 – Embracing growth through discomfort

49:39 – Training & duplication insights

52:03 – Creative to CEO challenge

53:22 – End with self and mantra

🔑 Key Points

1. Value and pricing: Too many designers undercharge for their services, undermining themselves and the industry. Tolu shares how valuing your time, skill and learning lets you attract higher-paying clients and why value‑based pricing beats hourly rates.
2. Business literacy and mindset: In 2025’s digital landscape, creative professionals need business skills to survive. Tolu emphasizes systems—contracts, SOPs, clear communication—and the importance of treating your craft like a business.
3. Industry trends: The creative economy is dynamic and competitive; 36 % of businesses hired freelance designers in the past year, and agencies are adding strategy consulting and copy writing to meet demand. Embracing AI and efficient tools is essential, though 35 % of agencies worry about AI compromising creative quality.
4. Balancing talent with intangibles: Technical skill matters, but so do communication, reliability and positive energy. Building a team and investing in relationships turns good work into great business.

🔗 Links & Resources:...

In this podcast episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Shadira Nesmith, co-founder of Stacked Up Academy, who passionately advocates for early exposure of youth to technology and essential skills such as financial literacy and coding. With a wealth of experience in the educational technology sector, Shadira articulates her commitment to bridging the gap for students, ensuring they acquire relevant skills that will empower them in their future endeavors. We explore the innovative initiatives she has introduced, including engaging products designed for young learners, and her vision for the upcoming Stacked Up Con, a conference aimed at immersing children in the world of technology. Through her insights, we aim to highlight the importance of nurturing confidence in both young learners and adult professionals as they navigate the evolving landscape of technology. Join us as we unpack the significance of intentionality, community engagement, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a tech-driven world.

Takeaways:

1. The significance of early exposure to technology is paramount for children's future success.
2. Building confidence in students is essential for their development in tech-related fields.
3. Stacked Up Academy provides engaging learning experiences for youth, integrating coding and financial literacy.
4. Creativity in teaching methods, such as nursery rhymes, fosters a deeper understanding of complex terms.
5. Networking and outreach are vital for expanding opportunities within educational programs.
6. Focusing on specific age groups allows for the development of tailored educational materials and experiences.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. credit Savant I.O
2. stackedupacademy.com
3. stackedupcon.com
4. blackgirlscode.com

Additional Links & Resources:

• Creative to CEO Challenge: https://creativetoceochallenge.com/ – gain clarity, confidence & strategy to turn your creative gifts into consistent income.

• Business Funding: https://creditsavant.io/ – secure funding for your creative business.

• Creativepreneur Gear: https://whatstheirony.com/ – apparel for the creative entrepreneur.

• Creative’s Corner Newsletter: Sign up at https://mmcbpodcast.com/ for monthly tips & mindset shifts in under 5 minutes.

👥 Connect with Shadeira

• Facebook: @StackedUpAcademy

• Instagram: @StackedUpAcademy

• TikTok: @StackedUpAcademy

• Website: StackedUpAcademy.com

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