#252 Nicolas Cole - How To Make Your First $10K Writing Online

Kickoff Sessions

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Think writers can't make money with the rise of AI?
Nicolas Cole proves that profitable online writing is not only possible but scalable, and he’s sharing how on today’s episode of Kickoff Sessions
Nicolas, a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and the mastermind behind Ship 30 for 30, dives deep into the strategies that took his ghostwriting agency from $0 to $180K/month.
With nearly a decade of experience in digital writing and content creation, Nicolas reveals the mindset, systems, and tactical moves that helped him build a writing business online—and a brand that lasts.
He also shares actionable tips for writers and entrepreneurs, including how to dominate a niche, why self-publishing beats traditional deals, and how patience and specificity are the ultimate superpowers in the creator economy.
You’ll also learn how to avoid the burnout that comes with rapid growth, why AI is creating more opportunities for writers (not fewer), and the key to building a category of one in any industry.
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Connect with Nicolas Cole
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolascole77/
My Socials:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/darrenlee.ks
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-lee1
(00:00) Preview and Introduction
(01:11) The 10x Choice: Scaling or Balance
(04:18) The Reality of Scaling Too Fast
(08:14) The Benefits of a Hybrid Agency Model
(10:29) Why Small, Profitable Agencies Win
(12:04) How to Dominate a Niche as a Writer
(19:03) Creating a Category of One in Your Niche
(21:53) How to Monetize Content
(24:10) Repeating Core Ideas for Maximum Impact
(27:33) Why Competition Grows Your Category
(29:03) Ghostwriting in 2025
(31:39) AI’s Impact on Writing
(34:15) Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
(37:44) Understanding the Business of Writing
(42:13) Books as Part of a Bigger Ecosystem
(47:49) The Power of Long-Term Influence in Writing
(50:14) Approach to Creativity and Content Systems
(55:36) Turning Pro: Discipline and Life Choices
(59:01) Surrounding Yourself with The Right People
(01:03:08) Lessons for Writers and Entrepreneurs

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Κεφάλαια

1. Lessons Learned From Scaling a Business (00:00:00)

2. Scaling Agency With Digital Products (00:08:06)

3. Becoming a Category of One (00:18:58)

4. Evolving as a Writer (00:25:34)

5. Rethinking the Traditional Publishing Model (00:33:37)

6. The Art of Book Marketing (00:41:11)

7. Creative Process and Personal Development (00:50:14)

8. Comparing Lifestyles in Different Cities (01:02:06)