Billy Jennings

Billy Jennings is the Founder of AudEarn. His journey is a testament to the organic growth that arises from diverse skill sets, expansive networks, and a commitment to excellence. Triggered by a surge in inquiries from contacts in the music and television industry seeking assistance with diverse aspects, such as running ads or creating marketing funnels, Billy found himself in a role akin to a middleman and point guard. His career trajectory unfolded organically, driven by the increasing demand for his consultancy in the entertainment industry. While his initial intent did not involve the establishment of a structured venture, the recognition of the value in his expertise led to the launch of AudEarn.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

One of the intriguing aspects of my job is the flexibility it offers; there’s no set clock-in time, and no one hovering over me. However, being my own boss presents its challenges, especially on days when the temptation to indulge in leisure activities is strong. The key lesson from entrepreneurship for me has been recognizing that no one is coming to save me, and there’s never a perfect time to start. To navigate this, I make a habit of listing the four or five most crucial tasks each morning, treating everything else as a bonus. Some days, I work long hours, while others may be shorter. The night before, I identify my priorities, ensuring I tackle them first thing in the morning to avoid complacency or fatigue. This routine helps me stay focused and maintain productivity in the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I’ve been immersed in the realm of AI for about five or six years now, leveraging various software tools obtained from platforms like AppSumo. This website allowed me to access cost-effective solutions that significantly streamlined my work. Embracing the efficiency of AI, I also tapped into virtual assistance from other countries, a practice I initiated during my college and grad school days. Even then, I recognized the value of maximizing time in the real world, outsourcing tasks like paper writing and math homework to individuals in India. The core of my approach involves using AI tools, consulting with others, and seeking honest opinions to refine my work. I believe in the importance of constructive criticism and having people in my circle who won’t hesitate to tell me when my ideas may need improvement.

What’s one trend that excites you?

It would be AI. While some aspects of AI can feel like junk generation, it has proven to be incredibly beneficial in various ways. I foresee a future where traditional assistants might be replaced by AI counterparts, as applications are being developed to complete tasks autonomously. For instance, there’s already AI software capable of booking flights and handling transactions seamlessly. This shift is not only practical but also holds creative potential. In my work with an artist, we created 15 lyric videos entirely through AI, sparking fascination with the eerie yet entirely artificial vibe. The range of possibilities with AI is truly diverse, offering something for everyone.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

I resonate with the idea of being an avid learner, having delved into self-help books and a plethora of creativity and productivity hacks. However, I’ve come to realize that success isn’t about secrets or fluff but rather a matter of creating momentum. No one is coming to hand you success; you have to forge your path. Acknowledging this, I steer clear of excuses or feelings of unfairness in my career progression. While I still indulge in video games and other entertainment, I consciously balance it by surrounding myself with productive content, whether it’s YouTube channels or podcasts.

What advice would you give your younger self?

If I could advise my younger self, I would emphasize the reality that a significant portion of the journey will be challenging. Working in silence without immediate recognition or financial gain will be a part of the process. It’s essential to understand that degrees, past affiliations, or other credentials won’t automatically garner attention or success. I’d tell myself that the need to showcase achievements to others won’t lead to fulfillment; true happiness comes from serving others and witnessing positive impact. The key is to focus on personal growth, maximize potential, stay positive, and persist even when faced with challenges. It may sound cliché, but these principles hold true in the pursuit of meaningful success.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

The realization that a college degree doesn’t automatically translate into success or recognition is crucial. It’s something that becomes more apparent as you navigate through your career. Similarly, the notion that your opinions may not carry as much weight until around the age of 30 is a common observation. Despite teaching public speaking at the University of Alabama as a teaching assistant and interacting with numerous students, the frustration arises when the expectation is that a degree will lead to an immediate six-figure job and the start of a fulfilling life. The reality is that meaningful experiences and a sense of purpose often come from paying your dues, enduring challenges, and putting in the effort to create a meaningful impact.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Implementing systems and maintaining organization have proven to be crucial elements of my approach. While some may find success in elaborate morning routines, I’ve found simplicity to be more effective for me. Using a basic notebook and pen, I outline what needs to be done and focus on achieving those tasks. There’s no room for ambiguity—either I complete the tasks and move forward, or I don’t. This straightforward approach, devoid of unnecessary complexity, ensures clarity and productivity in my workflow.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

For every mindless consumption, I make an effort to engage with one or two insightful resources. This habit has allowed me to absorb valuable information from various sources, turning them into mentors in a way. Yet, I don’t stop at being a sponge—I transition from absorbing to taking action and doing.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

The core of my approach is centered on over-delivering and ensuring accessibility. I believe in the principle of not over-promising and under-delivering, as it tarnishes one’s reputation. My strategy revolves around seizing even the smallest opportunities and making myself indispensable. If given a chance, I aim to excel to the point that the decision not to continue working with me seems illogical. I see every opportunity as a pathway to establish a long-term relationship. I aspire to be the go-to person in times of crisis or when rolling out significant projects. I want to eliminate any doubt about who should be called, solidifying my position by going above and beyond and delivering exceptional results.

What is one failure in your career,  how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

I faced a significant period of self-doubt where I stepped away from the entertainment industry, distancing myself from influencers and musicians for about a year. During that time, I took on a role at a video game company, which, although cool, had me back in an office setting doing mundane tasks. I felt disappointed in myself for shifting gears, driven partly by a desire for financial security and external expectations. The pressure from family and my significant other, coupled with the burden of student debt from grad school, fueled my uncertainty. It led me to question if their concerns were valid or if I should continue pursuing my passion. Eventually, I overcame this period of doubt by diving back into the industry with full force, going as hard as possible. Looking back, the specifics of those concerns no longer matter, and I’ve emerged stronger and more determined.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Drop servicing is a concept I find intriguing, especially as an alternative to traditional drop shipping, which I’m not fond of. While drop shipping works for many, I prefer the adjacent model of drop servicing. Essentially, you can scout services on platforms like Fiverr, where freelancers offer various skills for $20 to $100. With drop servicing, you build an agency around these services, already having a team of freelancers on Fiverr. The idea is to approach them and establish an agency offering graphic design, SEO, or any other service they provide. This approach allows you to charge a higher rate for the same service, providing a margin while you act as the face of the agency. I’ve personally found success with this model, especially during tight financial times, and have seen it work for many other agencies as well.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Personally, I find myself engaging with tools like Chat GPT until the wee hours of the morning, exploring different ideas and ways to monetize audiences. The consistency AI offers is remarkable. On the flip side, AI is still evolving, and there are areas where it hasn’t reached its full potential. However, it’s an exciting field that’s progressing rapidly.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

One book that I highly recommend to listeners right now is “100 Million Dollar Offers” by Alex Hermosey. It’s a quick read, taking only a day or two, and the principles outlined in it can be directly applied to drop servicing. The brilliance of the book lies in its simplicity, making complex concepts accessible even at a ninth-grade level. It’s beginner-friendly yet filled with genius ideas that can significantly impact entrepreneurs, making it a must-read.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I’m not much of a Netflix person; my go-to for content consumption is YouTube. When it comes to mindset content, I frequently watch Aaron Doughty. His videos offer excellent insights into mindset matters. Whenever I find myself in a rut or having a challenging day, his content proves to be a valuable resource. Aaron Doughty excels in simplifying complex concepts and providing a broader perspective, making it easier to see the bigger picture—a crucial aspect of navigating challenges and maintaining a positive mindset.

Key learnings

• Surround yourself with a supportive network of people who genuinely want you to succeed, as this provides essential encouragement and understanding, especially when others might not fully grasp your ambitions.
• Be mindful of your media consumption, transitioning from entertainment that acts as “junk food” to content aligned with your goals. This shift can significantly boost motivation and focus on your journey.
• Seek mentorship, whether through formal arrangements or by learning from those you admire. Having a mentor can provide valuable guidance, help navigate challenges, and accelerate your path to success.