Rob Balasabas

30/07/2025

One of the biggest unlocks I’ve seen lately:

Creators realizing they don’t need to pitch Netflix or Hulu.

They just need the right platform, the right format… and full ownership of the IP.

You can own your content.
You can own your apps.
You can own your audience relationships.

The monetization channels are there — memberships, licensing, sponsorships, even merchandise.

The big question is:

👉 Are you building your YouTube channel… or are you building a media company?

25/07/2025

Had a call with a potential partner this week — what started as a casual chat turned into real strategic alignment.

We talked about:
→ Sponsoring a virtual event focused on the influencer tech space
→ Co-hosting in-person panels with high-level talent managers
→ Collaborating on VIP dinners during our Uscreen Connect events
→ Becoming the membership tech powering their new creator offering

What made it work? We both showed up curious, not transactional.

I wasn’t there to sell. I was there to learn what they were building — and share what we’re working on. Turns out, those paths line up in more ways than we expected.

If you’re building partnerships right now:
— Start with alignment, not agenda
— Look for shared audiences and shared values
— Ask about what they’re building 12 months from now, not just next week

Best conversations often come from places of openness and long-term thinking.

28/05/2025

I'll be in Calgary with the Uscreen team for the IMPACT Conference & Gala. If you're attending or happen to be in Calgary, let's connect!

11/03/2025

Let’s talk on your podcast! 🎙️

I’m looking to jump on business-focused podcasts to chat about monetizing content, growing memberships, and building sustainable revenue as a creator. If you cover fitness, education, entertainment—or anything in business or the creator economy—I’m in!

✅ We can record remotely
✅ We can record in-person in Vancouver
✅ I’m traveling to several conferences, so if we’re in the same city, let’s set something up!

Got a podcast I should be on? Tag the host or DM me!

📩 [email protected]

20/01/2025

Imagine waking up one day to find that the platform where you’ve built your audience, your brand, and your business is suddenly inaccessible.

That’s exactly what thousands of creators in the U.S. felt today when TikTok became temporarily unavailable.

For many, it was a wake-up call.

As creators, you pour our time, energy, and passion into building communities online—but what happens when the platform we rely on is no longer there?

This is why owning your audience is critical. When you build solely on rented land (like social platforms), you’re vulnerable—not just to algorithm changes, but to policies and decisions entirely out of your control.

The solution? An email list.

It might not be the sexiest part of your business, but it’s powerful. An email list gives you direct access to your audience, no matter what happens with the platforms. It’s your safety net, your direct connection, and your best chance at long-term sustainability.

So here’s my hope: Let today be a reminder to future-proof your audience. Build in ways that put you in control. Start that email list, nurture it, and treat it like the invaluable asset it is.

Your audience isn’t just numbers—they’re people who want to hear from you. Make sure you can reach them, no matter what happens next.

What are your thoughts? How are you preparing for the unexpected as a creator?

05/01/2025

Monetizing your content doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. This cheat sheet is your shortcut to actionable strategies tailored to your stage on the Creator Success Map. Whether you're just starting or scaling big, pick a strategy, and take action!

Quick-Start Strategies to Monetize Your Content at Every Stage

02/01/2025

I’ve mapped out the 5 stages of a creator’s business in a guide I’m calling the Creator Success Map.

It includes insights on:
🔑 Key traits of each stage
⚡ Common challenges creators face
📈 Actionable steps to move to the next level

Curious about where you fit? 👀 Read through the guide here:

https://open.substack.com/pub/balasabas/p/the-creator-success-map

29/12/2024

I'd like to work closely with a handful of creators in my community to help them build sustainable revenue streams.

I'm thinking a weekly group call with monthly 1:1 calls.

Who'd be into this?

06/12/2024

Can you take a few minutes to give my talk at SXSW London 2025 a vote. Thanks in advance!

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03/12/2024

3 things you shouldn’t worry about when building a membership:

1. Having a massive audience.
2. Creating endless content.
3. Offering too many perks upfront.

Instead, focus on:

1. Consistently delivering value.
2. Building trust with your audience.
3. Engaging your true fans.

Here’s how to better focus on what really matters:
�1. Start small.
2. Keep it simple.
3. Grow as you learn what your audience needs.