Content Creator Bootcamp: Monetize Your Passion

Content Creator Bootcamp: Monetize Your Passion

ABOUT | LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

The Leadership Institute’s (LI) mission is to increase the number and effectiveness of conservative activists and leaders in the public policy process. The Institute identifies, recruits, trains, and places conservatives in government, politics, and the media.

ABOUT | Content Creator Bootcamp: Monetize Your Passion

The media world has changed, and there has never been a better time for independent creators to turn passion into impact. Content Creator Bootcamp: Monetize Your Passion is a one-day intensive training designed for aspiring writers, podcasters, video creators, advocates, and entrepreneurs who want to learn how to thrive outside traditional media institutions.

Agenda

9:05 – 9:20 AM | Why You’re Here: The Rise of the Independent Creator

 Matt Lewis, Contributing Columnist at The Hill and The Los Angeles Times

• Meet the instructors & get an overview of the day
• How this bootcamp came to be — and why it matters now
• What success looks like in 2026 for independent voices

9:20 – 10:00 AM | Writing and Journalism Still Matter

Carl Cannon, Washington Bureau Chief, RealClearPolitics

• The enduring power of storytelling in the digital age
• Trust, authenticity, and community in a post-mainstream media world
• What audiences want in an age of overload

10:15 – 11:30 AM | Lights, Camera, Impact: Interview & Presentation

Colm Flynn, International Correspondent, EWTN News

• Creating a simple, professional home video/audio setup
• Budget-friendly gear recommendations
• Tools and platforms for video production and distribution
• Tips for conducting interviews and getting booked

11:45 – 12:30 PM | From Mic to Inbox: The Complete YouTube & Podcast Process

Matt Lewis

• Editing Essentials: Clean up audio and video quickly — perfection not required
• Thumbnails That Click: How to design scroll-stopping YouTube visuals
• Publishing Workflow: A streamlined process for posting across platform
• Using short video content for reach

1:00 - 2:00 PM | From MSM Journalist to Substack: How to Grow, Engage, and Monetize with Integrity

Chris Cillizza, Independent Journalist and Substacker (formerly of CNN and The Washington Post)

• Chris’s personal journey 
• Growing a loyal audience from zero
• Collaborations and cross-promotion
• Tips for headlines, tone, and serial content
• Using Substack Live to build community
• Turning readers into paid subscribers — without losing trust

2:15 – 3:00 PM | From Student to Teacher: How One Dad Found His Platform — and His Power

Jeff Mayhugh, Founder of Politics & Parenting, President of No Cap Fund

• How Jeff went from attendee to public thinker, writer, and podcast host — without traditional credentials.
• Championing a Cause: Using Substack to champion “Uncap the House” and bring attention to overlooked political issues.
• Lessons in Voice & Growth: What worked, what didn’t, and how he stays consistent without burning out
• Encouragement for Beginners: Why you don’t need permission to start writing, podcasting, or advocating — just a mission and a message.

3:00 – 3:30 PM | Monetization: From Passion to Paycheck

Matt Lewis

• The “1,000 True Fans” model — and how to reach it
• Monetizing tips for Substack, Patreon, and YouTube
• Revenue beyond the platforms: merch, fellowships, speaking, and more

3:45 – 4:30 PM | Make Noise, Advance Your Cause: Strategies for Growth

Lisa Britton, advocate for fathers and men, frequent contributor to Evie Magazine

• Growing your presence on X/Twitter and other social platforms
• The power of direct messaging
• Pitching opinion editors and outlets
• Sustainability Tips: How to avoid burnout

4:30 – 5:00 PM | Wrap-Up & Next Steps

Matt Lewis

• Key takeaways and big-picture reminders
• Tools and resources for your creator journey
• Staying visible — without burning out. 
• Final Q&A and closing thoughts

This is an in-person only training.

Breakfast and lunch are included with registration.