Cassey Ho of Blogilates shares strategies for success prior to SXSW

Feb 25, 2023

With the threat of a recession, everyone is seeking solutions to secure their businesses, which includes the producers of content. This is why a lot of have realized the fact that using branding partnerships or sponsorship agreements to generate income isn't viable..

Potential recession aside brands, deals with brands or similar agreements aren't widely thought of as safe, even for musicians with large fan bases. Add a downturn into the mix, these agreements may cease to be the source of revenue for many performers.

Solutions to the issue are being considered for the ongoing issue, including the creation of social media funds like the TikTok's. Although these funds may be a bit flimsy, they've faced criticism for the small amount of money they pay out due to the large amount of users who want to share a part of the limited funds. To address the issue, TikTok is actively investigating a different model of the fund for creators with creators higher payouts. However, only time will reveal if this model is capable of exactly what the model of 2020 failed to achieve.

To get to the core of what entrepreneurs need to do to create sustainable businesses free of the limitations of social media For the purpose of answering this question, we set out to speak with Cassey Ho, the Queen of Entrepreneurship herself - the business maverick Cassey Ho, also known as Blogilates.

In the space of 12 years ago, a small Pilates at-home YouTube channel gained Cassey's acclaim for her status as an influential figure. Cassey has inspired more than 14 million people through her YouTube videos which have been seen more than 2 . billion times.

This was a good thing because it meant Cassey could focus on her passion for fashion. Now she has only two million-dollar portfolio brands, but Blogilates and POPFLEX also. Blogilates and POPFLEX as well as a partnership and 24 Hour Fitness, where her distinct approach to POP Pilates will be taught at fitness centers throughout the United States. Within the partnership is the renowned POP Pilates online certification course that Cassey is running through .

Through gaining the attention of her followers and adjusting to the needs of her audience through a range of services, Cassey has built a market that's been thriving for more than a decade.

Have a look at the Q&A interview with Cassey to get a deeper insight into the ways she's diversifying her sources of income through digital and physical items as well as other.

HTML0 Note: The answers were lightly edited to improve clarity.

How do you pitch the elevator's pitch?

It's possible to say I'm an entrepreneur within fitness and style. My initial venture was in my first venture into the YouTube universe of Pilates instructors. Every platform I'm on is averaged between 14 to 15 million users and 2 billion views. And I essentially got my career started with exercise videos which were available for free to people but this wasn't the main reason I wanted to do it. I've always wanted my life to be fashionable. When I started teaching yoga, I built the community, and due to that I could rekindle my dream to become a fashionable. People I taught were asking me for yoga mats and yoga attire and clothing, which is the reason I chose to dress up my students. It's been an amazing adventure, since the rise of social media allowed me to rekindle my initial fascination. My yoga mats can be purchased from Target under Blogilates, and POPFLEX is my brand for clothes.

Let's examine the lessons you have learned through your experience on social media. Why did you decide to create your YouTube channel?

I worked as a pilates instructor throughout the college years. My classes included POP Pilates specifically, which is done to music, and at the time nobody taught the format. Pilates was taught with no musical accompaniment or even just to tunes that were traditional. Therefore, I was teaching at the 24 Hour Fitness, and I completed my masters degree when I received an to instruct in Boston and I was conscious I was required to travel to another state and there was no way to teach this type of pilates later on. It was my choice to record a 10-minute exercise before uploading it onto YouTube YouTube website back in 2009. It was only for 40 people who attended the facility for training. That's it. Once the video was uploaded and removed, I did not review it until a month afterwards. The blog had thousands of users and hundreds of users looking for more information and this is what started Blogilates!

What has your approach to using social media changed from your experiences since you began Blogilates at the beginning of 2009?

The site was launched in 2009 and was YouTube as a form of video. Facebook was the place to start a virtual community. It was a fun site when it first launched. The past few years, we've witnessed a myriad of social media sites become available which has been extremely exhausting. However, it is essential to remain relevant in these ever-changing social media channels. It is essential to determine the best way to reach your target audience on every social media site as well as ways to create content for every one of them. It is important to remain on top of your game. social media at the conclusion of the day, is just an instrument. The answer is dependent on the people following you on the social platform However, for the primary factor, I think that it is a wonderful thing because it can break barriers and no stopping the success you have achieved. Continue to experiment until you discover the kind of content that can be effective. And continue to work at improving it continuously.

What's the most significant change since your first launch back in 2009 ? What's changed during the course of being a creator for YouTube?

It's been a while since we've witnessed any major shift! The year 2009 was it was decided that being an influencer not was an option. The idea of earning money from brand deals wasn't an option. AdSense was not even an idea in the past. YouTube was a site that allowed users to upload videos on YouTube to the point of being able to showcase their skills and knowledge, as well as show their humorous moments as well as the content they made. That was it. It was not about making it famous or becoming a YouTube superstar. Fast forward to 2023, and our life has changed dramatically, and, in many ways, I'm pretty sure that the authenticity of it is less.

People are often aspiring to become influencers or creators who are looking for recognition as well as recognition. Self-esteem for these individuals depends on their evaluations. I am irritated thinking about it since many of the early creators who began in 2009 were seeking connections. So that's the reason I was there. I wanted to teach POP Pilates. This is the reason Blogilates has existed since fourteen years. Blogilates didn't cease to exist from the mishaps which are common for young creatives. It's a different landscape and competitive. But, it's a fantastic business opportunity since there is no need for traditional media or advertising for making your brand known and prominent. It's simple to connect with your audience by turning to your mobile and making your own TikTok and YouTube video or the Instagram Reel.

Was it a positive experience first time you made some money through YouTube? Can you come up with a method for generating a regular income? If yes, could you elaborate what you plan to do?

In truth, I'm not certain whether this was a good idea or not. It was always a job as an occasional side-job. It was never my intention to turn it into part-time on YouTube. I was in the back of my mind regardless of what it was. This could have been selling items or doing my first and final work in a company. That's why I didn't make a strategic plan. In the beginning I started to notice YouTubers and bloggers signing brand agreements which I had no idea was even possible. I also didn't realize that having an agent and manager could be possible. One of my bloggers said to me : Do not be concerned about the process. There is no need to make contact with anyone. You just need to build an audience and then they will appear.' That's the exact scenario that happened. It's not clear if I you thought that was a good idea or not, however I was totally focussed on my audience and helped my readers by producing stunning content I was extremely passionate about. deeply about. Then everything else was born out of the same. AdSense, brand dealsand anything other than that constitute a significant portion of my income source however it's currently just a small portion of my earnings total as it's not my primary source of my income.

Has that been the norm with you? It all started with social media?

The first few months were more than a split as I created a variety of yoga bags or mats with brand names. There were brand deals and the number would rise, but the longer they went on and I became unsatisfied. I wasn't a fan of these deals since generally, in these contracts, you're tied together with a firm who doesn't understand or follow your instructions. This is like reading through the bullet points of the brief, and then adding your own content, and then knock off every single bullet points. And then they'd like to modify the way they do business because they're unhappy with it. The constant sensation of others giving me advice on what I could or should not be doing with my own content and my followers. I became so dissatisfied with my brand's agreement that I've decided for the past few years to stay clear of such deals and focus in analyzing my branding.

Let's take a look at the algorithm. Do you think algorithms have affected your capacity to make money from social media websites?

Since I began creating videos for designing around two months ago It was evident that the TikTok algorithm, also known as the YouTube algorithm performing, possibly but not nearly as effectively as Instagram's algorithm. Instagram algorithm. It can, however, determine the direction of a product and also the rate that it will be sold out. In one instance for one, we've seen the legging video we've made increase in popularity and reach greater than 25 million views in just a matter of minutes, and it sold out within a couple of hours. However, sometimes the same article may become popular in one place but not appear on the other in spite of being identical. It's intriguing to know the reasons behind this, but I'm not sure if it's because my audience is differs on different platforms I think it's because of the fact that, as an illustration, TikTok is a good possibility of becoming viral because there is a potential audience similar to the one you see on TikTok regardless of their size of the audience. It's an intriguing. The algorithm is an essential element to the success of videos in addition to playing an important role in the sale of. However, when you're focused on making an excellent product which me and my team try to develop each day, there's no need for viral videos. Although they're great, my company does not rely on their popularity to make them popular. Instead, it is based on the quality of its products.

As time passes as we progress, developers will recognize that they must utilize social media to create opportunities for increasing traffic and building an audience rather than something that is employed to direct monetize the content the way you've been able accomplish. What are your thoughts about this development?

It is important to offer the product that will be worthy of the attention of your viewers. It's essential to give value, whether it's for educational or entertainment. There is no way to boost the amount of viewers who watch your program when you only endeavor to make money out of them. This is why you should be communicating to people who are there in the morning: What is that aspect of your interaction with them who will carry back home with gratitude? Just keep trying to aid your audience until it's time to announce the product you'll remember them because of the times in which you assisted your audience. They'll be eager to become involved in the process when you release the product. As for me I was able to say that it didn't happen my idea of what really took place.

Videos are on YouTube and are free to use during the period of around 10 years, also to create items and customers who can see the progress of the service and wanting to become part of the process. In the end, by being able to incorporate their ideas in the process of design, This project is one I've developed making a real community.

Some creators believe the only method to make cash is through branding agreements or affiliation agreements on social media. What do you suggest to creators who want to diversify their online income sources?

We'll list all the ways that creators can diversify their revenue streams. There are definitely brands who have contracts that go beyond AdSense on YouTube and TikTok's Creator Fund. Creators can also think about developing products, items or digital services like services or online courses on . In at the end of the day it's important to determine the value you're offering. What is it that people would pay? You should be asking yourself this question as you're able to produce content at no charge, but you should not offer everything for free or without cost. If you don't, you'll end up being exhausted. Additionally, studies have revealed that when a person decides to buy an item, they're more likely to stick with it by completing the purchase than when the item is provided by way of a gift that is free.

HTML0 It is essential to understand what your project is for and wrap it in something else, like an item, a service or something else.

Which strategies have you employed to grow your followers on social media sites to promote POPFLEX and the Blogilates line of products available at Target? What strategies have you employed to dealt with the traffic generated through social media onto your site?

The viewers see exactly the thoughts I came up with while making the item. When I display a chic item I'm not saying to people that it's an excellent jacket. The most effective thing to do is buy it. It is not our intention to market products to consumers. We're educating them. I create products to address issues. I involve them with the design process. I help them be part of the process and take part in the design process. The design ideas they submit are then put to the development of products, after which we transform it into a real. happen, and through that we develop trust with my clients. It's not about treating them as clients, but treating them as partners during the process of designing. This is a great experience to everyone.

In regards to redirecting my followers on my social media accounts to my website, I focus on the obvious like including my Instagram URL. For example, making use of tags to promote your products. Links can be used to direct my followers away from apps on social media to my site. Also, I rely on other creators of content to showcase my merchandise and show how my clothes can be worn by women in all shapes and sizes. The content we provide is the reason why people are directed toward my website. Also, I use the newsletter as a way to make many sales.

What was your first idea ? What was the inspiration behind you designing Your Pop Pilates courses on ?

I had been searching for hours for a site that could allow me to offer the instructor-training program I have developed. At the very top of the podcast discussed possibilities of giving POP Pilates at 24 Hour Fitness. Within a few years, POP Pilates becomes the principal pilates class for each 24 Hour Fitness across the US. Therefore, I wanted an online platform, or software , that can accommodate all instructors , and disperse the choreography. I was unable to find anything. The incident occurred while I was watching Chalene Johnson's show. She was talking about something and she mentioned a reference to . That's when I realized the site ! It was really the only way for me to accomplish the things I needed to complete on the level I required and I'm grateful that it was there.

Examining the landscape of creators in general. Are there any frequent mistakes that you observe creators making in the current situation?

Creators have a number of errors in the present, however my main concern is when some creators can gain popularity and a large audience. At some point, they're offered brand agreements and the content begins to appear more as if it's considered to be standard. They're certain they'll require money to survive However, simultaneously they're destroying the faith of their fans. I've seen it happen to me. Of content] destroy the brand names of creators. Furthermore, I'm eager to know how an artist's job that's constructed on top of a career changes. For instance, a teacher becomes an influencer. Their entire rise to fame is because they're an educator. However, how can they get back their popularity after quitting teaching because they're famous for their work as creators?

The answer is simple: Start a class about .

What's something that creators of the game don't take sufficient care of?

Everyone says that everyone wants to know about the product or service you offer. They want to have an assortment of items so that they won't need to talk about different name brands constantly. It's important to me that you believe you are attracted by this. You should be motivated to run a product business. Any creator who is able to attract an audience must possess some type of product or. This is definitely the direction people [creators] should go However, you need to be a true believer, and trust the product in order to become a true believer. If not, it will be extremely difficult to sell your product.

Are there any tips you'd offer someone just starting out in this field who's looking to begin using digital products?

It's a good idea to go back to what I mentioned earlier about determining what value of the item you sell to your clients at the beginning, then finding ways to package the product in a manner that people can buy the product. You have to remain firm in what that is. If you're still unsure, that's fine. Try the idea with no-cost material. This is an opportunity to analyze your audience. In addition, I'd want to emphasize the need to be vigilant when letting your audience guide you into an area that you don't consider to be trustworthy. If you're following numbers and making excessive comments it can be a loss of your personal self-identity. You can lose your purpose and aren't aware of your values This is the main reason why creators get burned out. People who create this way are unhappy as they don't are able to lead the way they want to. They're creating, living as if they were someone else. Be attentive to every sign, including your heart. In the end, at the end of the day, you have to create content which make you happy or else it will end in failing.

Control your future by using digital tools

The growth of Cassey's business is dependent on diversifying income streams to build sustainable businesses similar to what Cassey has achieved.

Through the internet, online and offline courses , as well as physical products and brand collaborations, Cassey has been able to grow her influence across the globe , and finally have control over her future.

When creators begin to follow the same method of the method they use social media is set to change. Social media platforms will no longer be utilized as an instrument to accomplish the goal of monetization instead, as an opportunity to direct the audience to other opportunities for revenue, like digital goods.

"The greatest role I have played has been in helping me create an instructor community that is vibrant to Pop Pilates." -- Cassey Ho

Already, it has helped more than 55,000 entrepreneurs that have been able to earn around $4.9 billion. The number of entrepreneurs supported is increasing every minute.

We'll get rid of middlemen, so you can get all profits with your rights to the customers, the model you use for your company, and possibly even the name you own.

If you want to know more about ways you can control your destiny and succeed in your work as an entrepreneur or creator take a look at Cassey along with Matt Steffanina, 's President/CPO Sean Kim, and Jim Louderback on the stage sponsored by Jim Louderback at SXSW next month.

If you're thinking of increasing your income through selling digital products Try your hand at by attempting a fourteen-day free trial.

Tweet Share Twitter Twitter Share

This post was first seen here. this site

Article was posted on here