Prometheus Chats

Building Trust Through UGC: How Social Gem is Revolutionizing Digital Marketing

In this episode of Prometheus Chats, I sit down with Elliot Boudard, founder of Social Gem, a company specializing in user-generated content (UGC) marketing. Elliot shares the power of authentic, relatable content in today's digital marketing landscape and why traditional influencer marketing is quickly becoming obsolete.
Episode Highlights:
What makes UGC more effective than traditional advertising and celebrity endorsements
How Social Gem grew from a chance meeting in Mexico to handling over 10,000 ads last year
The science behind creating hooks that stop users from scrolling
Why watch time is the most important metric in social media marketing
How brands can leverage relatability to build trust with potential customers
The current state of AI in UGC marketing and why human connection still matters
Social Gem's unique approach to fully managed UGC campaigns
Elliot breaks down the psychology behind effective marketing content, explaining why people don't want to be "sold to" and how subconscious selling through entertainment and relatability leads to significantly better results. He also shares practical insights on what it takes to grow a successful marketing agency, emphasizing the importance of hiring the right people and creating a positive company culture.
Whether you're a business owner looking to understand the modern marketing landscape or a creator interested in UGC opportunities, this episode offers valuable insights into what actually works in today's saturated digital environment.
Find Social Gem at:
Website: socialgem.io
Instagram: @socialgem.io
Facebook Group: Social Gem's Daily Marketing Tips

JKS Manga: From Teacher to Renowned LitRPG Author

In this episode of Prometheus Chats, host Damion sits down with the celebrated web novel author, Jack Sherwin (a.k.a. JKS Manga), known for his hit series 'My Vampire System'. They discuss Jack's transition from being a music teacher to a full-time writer, the evolution of web novels, and how Jack garnered a massive following by publishing his works digitally. Dive deep into Jack's creative process, the impact of reader feedback, and the realities of monetizing web novels. This conversation offers insights into balancing commercial success with creative passions and navigating the unique challenges of the digital literary world. 
To learn more about JKS Manga or to read My Vampire System, check out his website or the My Vampire System page on WebNovel. 
https://www.jksmanga.com/my-vampire-system
https://www.webnovel.com/book/my-vampire-system_16709365405930105
 
CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Prometheus Chats 00:57 Meet JKS Manga: The Author Behind the Name 02:08 The Digital Revolution in Publishing 02:32 The Journey to Becoming a Writer 04:47 The Art of Web Novel Writing 07:48 Inspiration Behind the Series 11:32 From Musician to Full-Time Writer 18:47 The Challenges of Consistent Writing 23:53 Monetizing Web Novels 28:54 Experiencing Stories Together 30:04 Balancing Passion and Commercial Success 31:12 Understanding Market Trends 35:10 Reader Feedback and Story Development 36:28 Marketing and Promotion Strategies 38:40 Future of the Web Novel Industry 43:02 Building a True Following 48:04 Traditional vs. Digital Success 54:48 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

From Script to Screen: Mastering the Business of Filmmaking with Ray Ellingsen

Dive into the world of independent filmmaking with industry veteran Ray Ellingsen in this eye-opening episode of Prometheus Chats. With over three decades of experience as a writer, producer, and film financier, Ray pulls back the curtain on the often-overlooked business side of bringing movies to life. Discover why treating filmmaking as a business is crucial for success, learn the secrets of audience building and networking, and uncover the common pitfalls that trip up aspiring filmmakers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Ray's practical advice and insider knowledge will revolutionize your approach to the film industry. Don't miss this chance to gain invaluable insights that could make or break your next project!

Building a Gen Z Media Empire: Mara McCann's Vision for Zhive

Description: In this inspiring episode of Prometheus Chats, we sit down with Mara McCann, the visionary founder of Zhive Media. Mara shares her journey from small-town Iowa to creating a groundbreaking media and talent incubator for Gen Z creators and entrepreneurs.
Discover how Zhive is bridging the gap between intuition and action, empowering young voices, and revolutionizing the way we approach content creation and entrepreneurship. Mara offers invaluable insights on building a company with intention, the importance of mentorship, and the power of trusting your own voice in business.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a content creator, or simply curious about the future of media, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice. Don't miss Mara's powerful message: "Don't listen to anybody else but yourself."
Tune in to learn how Zhive is shaping the next generation of creators and leaders!
 
Connect with Mara and Zhive: You can find Mara McCann on LinkedIn @MaraMcCann | Follow @ZhiveMedia on social platforms | Visit Zhive.com/community for the blog | Check out Zhive's YouTube channel for interviews and content | Creators, entrepreneurs, mentors, and potential investors are encouraged to reach out!

From Idea to Launch: The Untold Story Behind the Podcast Analytics Startup Podder

In this episode of Prometheus Chats, Damion interviews Christian Sørensen, founder and CEO of Podder, a platform that provides analytics for podcasts.
Christian discusses starting Podder in late 2020 after initially wanting to build an advertising marketplace for podcasts. However, they soon realized there was a lack of reliable data in the podcasting industry to power something like that. So they pivoted to focus entirely on collecting and analyzing podcast data to provide insights to podcasters.
Some challenges Podder faced included the decentralized nature of podcast listening across many platforms, GDPR compliance as a European company, and gaining credibility as newcomers to the industry. But Christian says they overcame these by staying small and nimble as a team, ensuring their platform was privacy-compliant, and persistently engaging with podcasters to keep learning and improving.
Christian also reflects on the pivots and emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship and says the most exciting success so far has been recently feeling like they really “found their groove” in solving podcasters’ problems after talking to enough users and honing the product. 
Knowing that artificial intelligence is the clear topic du jour,  that Damion and Christian discuss how Podder is looking to leverage AI/ML to enhance their platform and workflows without aiming to replace human roles. 
Overall, an insightful look into Podder’s founding story and Christian’s entrepreneurial journey building a startup in the podcast analytics space. He shares the challenges they faced and the importance of continuously engaging with customers, learning, and adapting.

From Stylist to Salon Owner: Turning Passion into Purpose with Betty Taylor

Get inspired by the entrepreneurial journey of Betty Taylor, a successful hair stylist and salon owner - who also happens to be my mother. In this candid conversation, Betty shares how she built her business from the ground up, overcame challenges along the way, and empowered others to pursue their dreams.
Listen as Betty recounts starting out as an independent contractor before recently opening her own salon. She offers advice on being open to learning new skills, pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, and committing fully to your vision. Betty also discusses the motivation behind writing her book “Pastor of the Salon Chair”, which shares lessons from a 50-year career making clients feel beautiful inside and out.
Whether you want to start a new venture or are just looking for some motivation, Betty’s story of perseverance and caring for others will give you a burst of inspiration. Tune in for an uplifting chat with a woman who lives out her purpose daily.
 
If you would like to contact Betty or learn more about here salon or book, you can visit her website: https://bettyssalon.com/
 
Order Betty's book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BYB4K3WB

The Future is Now: Navigating the Path from Educators to Entrepreneurs with AI

Navigating the Path from Educators to Entrepreneurs with AI
In this Prometheus Chats episode, host Damien Martin speaks with former educators and co-founders of Alexandria’s Design, Dr. Charles and Marie Martin. They detail their journey shifting from teaching careers to launching their own instructional design company focused on corporate training.
A key part of their success has been strategically leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude. The Martins share how they use these technologies to analyze content, generate ideas, increase efficiency, and develop innovative learning experiences for clients. While not replacing human work, AI allows them to handle complex assignments and focus on high-value creative aspects of instructional design.
In addition, the conversation covers other topics including building remote teams, overcoming cash flow challenges, and maintaining work-life balance as a couple in business together. The Martins stress the importance of continually developing new skills and maintaining a future-focused mindset as entrepreneurs.
Listen to the full discussion of how this power couple has leveraged AI and their complementary skillsets to find success in corporate training at www.alexandriasdesign.com.

Redefining Corporate Culture: A Chat with Christian Ortiz

Redefining Corporate Culture: A Chat with Christian Ortiz
Have you been told that you need to fake it to make it in entrepreneurship? That being inauthentic can lead to success? It's time to ditch that outdated advice and embrace authenticity as a powerful tool for building a successful business. In this episode, we'll discuss how putting your mission first, establishing clear boundaries, and promoting diversity and inclusion can lead to greater success on social media and beyond. Don't let the drudgery of inauthenticity hold you back any longer. Join us and learn how to thrive as an authentic entrepreneur.
Get to know Christian Ortiz, a dedicated entrepreneur who seamlessly weaves his personal values and beliefs into his professional endeavors. As the CEO and founder of Mod Atlas Media, Christian is committed to transforming the landscape of entrepreneurship and corporate culture by championing equity, diversity, and inclusion. A self-taught artist, photographer, and musician, Christian's entrepreneurial journey serves as a shining example of the power of authenticity in the workplace, motivating others to embrace their true selves in their professional lives.
In this episode, we will cover:
Uncovering the advantages of focusing on your mission rather than monetary gains in entrepreneurship.
Bolstering authenticity at work and setting effective boundaries when dealing with clients.
Leveraging the potential of social media to champion diversity and inclusion in your online world.
Innovative and practical techniques for executing impactful social media marketing campaigns.
Tailoring your messaging to connect with distinct audiences across multiple social media platforms.
The importance of creativity on a zero-Dollar budget.
Bringing Your Authentic Self to WorkIn a world where professionalism is often associated with concealing personal beliefs, bringing your authentic self to work becomes a courageous act. Emphasizing authenticity in the workplace cultivates an environment of open communication, trust, and understanding among colleagues and clients. This, in turn, contributes to better team collaboration, increased job satisfaction, and ultimately, better overall performance. During our conversation, Christian Ortiz stresses the importance of showcasing one's true self to clients and colleagues. As a proponent of workplace authenticity, Ortiz encourages entrepreneurs to be transparent about their beliefs and values from the beginning, setting the tone for stronger relationships with clients and collaborators. By doing so, Ortiz sees a significant improvement in the work environment that benefits the well-being and success of everyone involved.
 
"If you're all about the money, that's going to be very prevalent to anybody who you're trying to do business with, and it's going to reduce the purpose and what you're trying to accomplish with them. But if you're able to say the money is going to come regardless and I'm just going to keep doing me and I'm going to do it the right way, then the money is going to always be there, period" - Christian Ortiz
 
If you would like to learn more about Christian and his work at Mod Atlas you can find all of his contact information through his Link Tree:
https://linktr.ee/OfficialChristianOrtiz

Behind the Scenes of Tech Witch: A Data-Informed Creative Process

Have you heard these common myths about using data to enhance creativity? Myth #1: Data stifles creativity. Myth #2: Data is only for analytical minds, not creatives. Myth #3: Data can't measure the intangible aspects of creativity. Well fear not, I'm here to share how data can actually fuel your creativity and lead to greater success. Are you ready to learn more?
If we're creating for an audience, we should know that audience, we should understand what they want, what their expectations are, if for nothing else so that we know how to deliver on the promise of what we said we were going to make, or to play with those expectations to delight and surprise audiences. -Damion Taylor
Data-Informed CreativityThe use of data-informed creativity emphasizes a strategic blend of data insights and firsthand experience, elevating the creative process to produce exceptional content. This technique involves evaluating audience preferences, testing content, and refining strategies accordingly. It fosters an understanding of the audience and enhances communication, resulting in content that resonates with viewers. Data-informed practices provide a solid foundation for high-quality, engaging creative work that appeals to diverse audiences. During this episode, host Damion Taylor demonstrates the application of data-informed creativity in the creation of the animated series Tech Witch. Collaborating with writer Trey Livingston, the team successfully developed characters and a storyline based on personal experiences as well as data insights.With these methods, Tech Witch exemplifies the potential benefits and achievements when implementing data-informed practices into the creative workflow.
If you would like to follow our creative journey, please follow us on social media or check out our Science Fiction and Fantasy scripted podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/ifprometheus/https://www.instagram.com/animatedprometheus/https://imaginationandfantasy.podbean.com/

Story Time: Chevy Nova Vs. Mercedes and The Power of Motivation

In this episode of Prometheus Chats, Damion shares a personal story of choosing between a flashy red convertible Mercedes and a practical brown Chevy Nova. But the decision is not just about the car itself, as he grapples with the balance between status and practicality. Will he make the right choice in the end? What is the right choice? Heck! Is there even a such thing as the right choice?
This may be an unconventional way to talk about motivation, but who ever said conventional is our thing?
Motivation is pivotal to company culture and decision making in business. So knowing and understanding motivations is obviously important. However, so often we don't take the time to question or even just check in with ourselves to understand the motivations for our own actions. Motivation can really drive outcomes. So be intentional about what you want to achieve, and let that drive your decisions.