The Thousand Solutions Blog

Cassey Ho of Blogilates shares strategies to be successful prior to SXSW

Feb 24, 2023

As the world grapples over the potential of a downturn, numerous are seeking strategies to protect their future, which includes the content creators. Some have come to the conclusion that making use of sponsorship contracts or brand agreements to earn income is not sustainable..

With the possibility of a recession Brand agreements and similar agreements aren't generally thought of as reliable, not even for artists that have built a huge following. Throw a recession into the mix, and the brand agreements may cease to be an effective source of income for musicians in a number of cases.

Solutions for this issue are being developed like the creation of funds from social media such as TikTok's. Although they may seem as if they could be an excellent idea, they've been criticised regarding the payouts they're not that significant due to the large number of creators seeking a portion of the limited funds. This is the reason TikTok has been working to test a new creator fund which would offer creators more cash payouts. It isn't yet known if this latest variant of the fund could achieve what the initial version from 2020 could not.

To get to the core of how entrepreneurs can create successful businesses not hampered by the restrictions that social media has upon them, we set up for conversation with the hero of entrepreneurship herself, business mogul Cassey Ho, aka Blogilates.

More than 12 years ago, an insignificant house pilates YouTube video earned Cassey's rise to the status of an influential person. Cassey has inspired over 14 million people through her YouTube content, which were viewed over 2 billion times.

At the end of the day, Cassey can be focusing on her passion for fashion. In the present, she has just 2 million dollars worth of portfolio brands like Blogilates as well as POPFLEX and also the collaboration with 24 Hour Fitness, where her unique style that she calls POP Pilates is taught at gyms all over all over the United States. Also included is her trademark POP Pilates online certification course and certification course, which Cassey manages on .

Thanks to her followersand adapting to the needs of her followers with various products, Cassey has created a firm that has been trending for over 10 years.

Take a look at this Q&A with Cassey to learn more about her methods for diversifying her sources of earnings through both physical and digital items and various other options.

Note: The responses are lightly edited to improve the clarity.

How do you pitch your elevator song that you decide to use?

It is possible to say that I am a fashion and fitness-related business owner. I began my career through YouTube as an instructor of pilates. All platforms I use, I am between 14-15 million users and have 2 billion views. I started out by providing my free workout videos for people however this wasn't my primary goal at all. I've always envisioned being at the forefront of fashion. Since the first time I started to teach workouts I created a community after which I found myself reunited to my initial love of fashion. My students were eager to buy yoga mats as well as clothing, so I decided to start dressing my clients. This has been an amazing journey in which social media has brought me to the first passion for yoga. Yoga mats are sold at Target under Blogilates. POPFLEX is my company to sell clothes.

Let's look at the social media aspects of your journey. What made you choose to create your YouTube channel?

I worked as a part-time instructor for pilates in my college years. I taught POP Pilates specifically. The method can be taught by using music. At the time, no one taught this type of Pilates. Pilates was practiced without any music or even traditional music. That's why I was the teacher of 24 Hour Fitness in Boston. I was about to graduate from college when I was offered an offer by a company situated in Boston and was aware that I'd have to travel around the United States and that nobody would be teaching the same style of pilates as I did. In this light, I decided to film a 10-minute workout and then posted the video to YouTube. YouTube website in 2009. The goal for the video was 40 participants at the gym. This was all it was. Once I uploaded it on YouTube but then removed the video, I didn't look at it again until just a few days later. It received many thousands of views, as as thousands of users requesting additional. That's the basis of Blogilates!

Have you formulated your approach to making use of social media improved your daily life since when you started Blogilates since the year 2009?

In 2009, it was YouTube which was the platform used to make video. Facebook was the place to create an online social network. It was an excellent spot to spend time back in the day. The past few years, we've watched different social media networks come into the future as well, which has been a lot of work. It is essential to capable of staying relevant in the face of new technology. It is essential to determine how to best reach the users who use them and also the best way to post content for each. It's essential to keep playing the gamebut bear your mind in the present that social media, at the end of the day is only a instrument. It is therefore subject to the eyes of those who watch you on that tool however for the main aspect, I believe it can be very beneficial since it may put hurdles between you and your goals, so that it isn't a barrier to your growth. You can keep exploring and testing until you find the kind of material which is efficient and then you can continue to improve it to make it better every single time.

What's changed since the initial launch in 2009? What's changed as an creator of YouTube?

There's been a while since there were significant changes! In 2009 , in 2009 the concept of being an influencer wasn't one was a huge hit; making the cash from deals with companies wasn't trending; AdSense wasn't even a idea at the time. Videos were uploaded on YouTube to serve the goal of providing users with a platform to show their talent and also to share funny instances, in addition to the content they created. That was it. It wasn't the goal to be popular or make YouTube famous. Then we come to 2023 and our world is different and different in numerous ways. It's likely that there's more authenticity.

There are many people who are looking to become influencers or creators because they're looking for recognition and fame. Their worth is determined by how much they make, which is a bit depressing to think about it since one of the initial creators in 2009 wanted to establish connections. So that's the reason I was there. I was there to with the teaching of POP Pilates. In my opinion, that is one of the main reasons Blogilates continued to run for 14 years. It didn't go out of its business, as is evident from the events happening a lot, especially for the younger entrepreneurs. It's a different market and is even more competitive. But, it's also an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs as it's not necessary to rely on traditional advertising and media to get your name noticed and you can make connections with your clients with only a couple of clicks on your smartphone and making an online video with TikTok as well as YouTube Short. Instagram Reel.

What was your experience in making money through YouTube? Did you have a system that could help you earn an ongoing amount of money? If yes, could you describe the method?

Actually, I'm not quite sure what the goal was. There was always an opportunity to be there. It was never my intention to make it a full-time contributor participant on YouTube. I was involved in something that was happening behind the scenes such as selling goods or at my first and final work position. That's why I did not have a strategy. In the beginning I realized that bloggers and YouTubers have been signing brand contracts but I wasn't convinced the thought that they would have an agent or a manager, were likely. One blogger friend of mine said "Don't worry about it; there's no reason to speak to anyone. Just build your fan base and they'll appear.' This is exactly what happened. that happened. I'm not certain if I would consider this to be an appropriate strategy However, I was focussed on my audience and helped by creating content that I believed in all of other aspects that resulted from that. AdSense, brand agreements and the like are a small portion of my source of income, but these days they are only an incredibly small percentage of my total income as my content is my primary element.

Was it always this method for you? Perhaps it began through social media?

The company was split at first because I was always designing yoga mats and bags that had brands. Brand-related deals were in the works and would rise in the beginning, however the rate of increase was too high that I became angry. I wasn't a fan of the idea of these deals because often they're tied to a business that doesn't trust in your idea. It is your responsibility to follow the points laid out in the brief but add your content and knock off every bullet points. In the future, they'll be seeking a change because they don't agree with it. This was an ongoing sensation of being told what I should or shouldn't do with my material and audience. I became so unhappy with these agreements that it's my aim over the last several years to let go off of these agreements and to focus on the promotion of my own brand.

We'll now discuss the algorithm. Are algorithms affecting your ability to earn money from social networks?

When I started making video designs a year two months ago, I was able to see how the TikTok algorithm, or YouTube algorithm performed, and maybe not so too much the Instagram algorithm. This could define the future of a product  as well as how quickly it's likely to be a hit. In the case of the leg-shaking video go through the roof and have at least 25 million views or more and sold out within a matter of days. Sometimes, however, things can become famous in one location but not be on the otherside, even though it's precisely the same thing. It's intriguing to know what is happening, but I'm not sure if it's because my followers differ across different platforms. It could be because, for instance, TikTok is more likely of becoming viral because it is able to serve a look-alike audience regardless of the type of audience which is fascinating. The algorithm plays a significant role in the efficiency of video with regard to performance thus, playing a big part in selling. However, the moment you're focussed on the superiority of your products and services and that's the way I and my team work everyday, there's no need for those popular videos. The videos are great, but our company isn't dependent on them getting viral. Instead, it relies on the quality of its product.

It is essential to provide something to the people that are watching your work. It is essential to produce something worthwhile, regardless of whether it's entertainment or educational. It isn't possible to increase the quantity of your clients through merely trying to take the money of your customers. So, whatever you're hearing to this moment: What is that thing you are able to convey to your customers that they'll be able to bring home with them and be able to remember? Just keep trying to aid your customers after which when you're getting ready to introduce your product and they'll be able to recall how you helped them. They'll want to be part of your story when you introduce your new products. For me, even while it wasn't what I had in mind it is what actually happened.

Videos on YouTube at no cost over a period of 10 years. During that time I'll create products in addition to people who know about how I make the product would like to take part in the creation process. Furthermore, by having people who are involved in the creation and creating this product I'm doing a true community.

A lot of creators think that their only way to make money is via the use of brands or affiliate contracts through social networks. Which are the top locations to recommend that creators diversify ways to earn revenue?

This article will examine the different ways that creators can diversify their sources of revenue. Naturally, there are brand-name deals, as well as AdSense on YouTube as well as the TikTok creator fund. Creators are also able to develop products and products, and digital goods such as services as well as an online course for training . When it comes to the final day, it's your job to decide what you're giving away. What are the things that customers would want to pay for? This is a crucial question to ask because you're in a situation to develop material that is free, however you can't offer everything in exchange for a fee. In the event that you do, you'll get exhausted. Additionally, it is known that when a person purchases something, they are more likely to stick with the way they're told to go as opposed to when the item is provided with a no-cost offer.

I think it's important to know what your worth is and wrap it into something that may be a product, service product or content.

Which strategies did you employ to boost your social media followers on your website to advertise POPFLEX in addition to the Blogilates catalog of products for sale on Target? How have you funneled your social media traffic to your website?

I'll be sharing with you the process I used to come up with this concept. If I show you my most stylish clothes, I'm not telling you "oh I have a great sweatshirt. The best thing to do is buy the item. This product isn't sold to those who are looking. The product is being taught to them. I design products to address these issues. I involve them during the design process and help to include them to the development process, and to also participate in the development process. Their design requests are taken into consideration for the creation of products, and we transform it into a reality. That's how I build confidence in my customers. It's not about treating as clients however, we treat them as part of the design process. This makes an experience that is enjoyable for everyone.

In the spirit that I am able to draw my viewers from my social media accounts to my website, I focus on the easy, for instance, putting a hyperlink on my Instagram. For example, the use of tags for promoting the products you sell. Links are a great way to redirect my users away from my accounts on social media to my site. Furthermore, I also use other content creators to display my items and also demonstrate how my clothing can be worn by women of all different sizes and shapes. Yeah, our content will attract customers to my site. Furthermore, I utilize newsletters to generate a lot of sales.

What was the first motivation for you to be involved with Pilates ? Why did you decide to create Pop Pilates? Pop Pilates courses on ?

I was desperately looking for websites that would allow me to provide my instructor training course, so in the middle of the list I spoke about how I could teach POP Pilates at 24 Hour Fitness. In the next few decades, POP Pilates becomes the official pilates of the 24 Hour Fitness locations across the US. This is the reason I sought an online platform or program that would house all the instructors as well as to demonstrate the choreography. I couldn't find anything. I was listening to Chalene Johnson's show. The host was talking casually regarding something, and then she brought up . Then I found out about the subject ! It's the only solution I could use to accomplish the task I had to complete with the size I needed to achieve and I'm ever grateful for it.

The creator landscape overall. What are some expensive mistakes that creators commit today?

Creators make many mistakes at present, however the most common issue I'm experiencing is when they gain an enormous amount of attention as well as a significant audience. This occurs when they get agreements with brand names and the material created by the creators begins looking extremely overloaded. It's no secret that it's necessary to earn an income as well as pay bills, but at the same time they're undermining the trust of their fans. I've seen this type of contentdegrade the brands of creators. In addition, I'm interested to learn how an artist's career built on a different career evolves. For instance teacher, they transform into an influencer. Their entire rise to fame is based on teaching, but what happens after they stop being a teacher since they've become successful [as an author]?

Here's a suggestion to the people who are reading this. Learn a class in .

What's not being accomplished by creators at the level that they could be of?

Every day , I hear customers would love what you have. They would like to have a product line in order to not be forced to talk about different brands all the time. But, I'm of my opinion that it is essential to have a desire for that. It's essential to imagine the possibility of running a business that is based on products. It is my opinion that every artist who has gained a following should be able to provide an product or service. It's the only place the creators and their followers should seek, but you have to be a believer and experience the product. If not, the product is going to be very difficult to sell.

Are you able to offer any advice you'd like to offer to someone who's just started on this journey and is looking to start their journey using digital tools?

It seems to be akin to what I mentioned earlier, determining the worth this product provides its audience in the first place, then determining how best to present the item in a way which allows it to be available for buy. You have to remain focused on what that is. If you're unsure, that it's ok. It is possible to test this idea by downloading the free material. It is the goal to determine your audience. Important to keep in mind that you should be cautious not to following your followers' lead in a direction that isn't something you feel confident in. If you don't pay at the numbers too carefully and you post numerous comments, you are unable to discern yourself. In turn, you are less motivated and aren't aware of the principles you adhere to. This is among the primary reasons creators get burnt out. People who create this way are unhappy because they aren't able to be a person who lives for themselves. They're living and creating to serve someone other that them. Pay attention to every sign and even your heart. At the final point, you need to create materials that are enjoyable to you, or it will end as a failing.

HTML0 Take control of your future by using digital products

It's evident that the future prosperity of the creator depends on diversifying their income streams to build sustainable enterprises exactly as Cassey has achieved.

With digital products, like online classes, as well as tangible and name-brand products, Cassey is able expand her reach throughout the globe and eventually be in control of her life.

When creators begin to follow suit how they make their use of social media is likely to shift. It will be used more a means of revenue generation as opposed to as a way to attract viewers to more reliable revenue sources including digital goods.

"The greatest role I have played has been helping me create an active community of instructors for Pop Pilates." -Cassey Ho Cassey Ho

It has already helped over 55,000 of the most creative entrepreneurs with a total of $4.9 billion. The beneficiaries are growing every day.

We're going to rid ourselves of middlemen, which means you'll be able to keep the entirety of your earnings as well as owning your business's design, your customers and your own brand.

If you're looking to learn more about how to own your future and become an entrepreneur or creator be sure to join Cassey along with Matt Steffanina, 's President/CPO Sean Kim, and Jim Louderback in the event they will take to the stage in support of sponsors at SXSW later this month..

If you're interested in growing your income through digital platforms, test them for yourself by registering for a the free trial of 14 days.

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