We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Brandon Gates a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Brandon, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is building Podcasters United a community and platform designed to bring podcasters, creators, and storytellers together.
The idea came from a gap I kept seeing. As a podcast host, I realized a lot of creators were operating in isolation talented people with great voices, but no real community, collaboration, or guidance. I’d been through that myself, trying to figure things out alone, and I knew there had to be a better way.
So I created Podcasters United not just as an event, but as an ecosystem. We started hosting meetups where podcasters, videographers, editors, and creatives could connect, share knowledge, and even build together in real time. One of the most powerful moments was watching complete strangers come into a room and leave with a podcast concept, a partnership, or even a renewed sense of confidence to finally start.
What makes this project meaningful to me is the ripple effect. It’s not just about me growing a platform it’s about helping other people find their voice, build something they’re proud of, and realize they don’t have to do it alone.
It also challenged me as a leader. I had to shift from just being a creator to being a community builder creating experiences, fostering trust, and making sure people felt seen and supported.
At the end of the day, Podcasters United represents something bigger than content it’s about connection, empowerment, and creating opportunities for people who just needed a room, a push, and a network to grow.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Brandon Gates, and I’m the Founder & Host of The Pull Up Experience Cleveland’s #1 entrepreneurship and culture podcast as well as the creator of Podcasters United, a growing community designed to connect and empower creators.
I got into this space because I saw a gap. There were incredible entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators in my city and beyond who had powerful stories but not enough platforms that truly highlighted them in an authentic way. At the same time, I noticed a lot of podcasters and creators were trying to figure everything out alone. I was one of them early on.
So I started The Pull Up Experience to spotlight voices that deserved to be heard and that quickly grew into something bigger than just a podcast. It became a platform for storytelling, connection, and community.
From there, I built Podcasters United, which focuses on bringing creators together through live events, workshops, and collaborations. We’ve created spaces where people can network, launch ideas, learn the craft, and build real relationships not just online, but in person.
In terms of services, I work across content creation, podcast production, brand partnerships, live event hosting, and community building. I also help individuals and brands grow their platforms, increase visibility, and monetize their voice especially through podcasting and digital media.
The main problem I solve is helping people turn ideas into platforms and platforms into opportunities. A lot of people have the vision, but they lack the structure, strategy, or support system to execute. I bridge that gap.
What sets me apart is that I don’t just create content I create ecosystems. I understand both the creative side and the business side, and I’ve built something that not only grows my platform but also helps others grow theirs alongside me. Everything I do is rooted in community, consistency, and impact.
What I’m most proud of is the impact we’ve been able to create over 300+ episodes, millions of views, and a growing audience across the world but more importantly, the real-life connections, collaborations, and opportunities that have come from it. Seeing people start their podcast, grow their brand, or change their life because of something we built that’s what matters most.
If there’s one thing I want people to know about me and my brand, it’s that I’m intentional about building platforms that empower people. This isn’t just content it’s a movement centered around giving people access, visibility, and the confidence to step into their purpose.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
I think what helped me build my reputation within my market is a combination of consistency, authenticity, and a genuine commitment to community.
From the beginning, I showed up consistently. I didn’t just post when it was convenient I committed to building The Pull Up Experience week after week, episode after episode. That consistency built trust. People knew I was serious, and they knew I wasn’t going anywhere.
Second, I focused on being authentic. I wasn’t trying to copy what other platforms were doing I leaned into real conversations, real stories, and real people. That allowed guests and audiences to connect with the content on a deeper level, which helped the platform grow organically.
Another major factor was how intentional I’ve been about building relationships. I didn’t just interview people I built connections with them. That turned into referrals, collaborations, and a strong network that continues to expand.
And beyond the content, I took it offline. Through Podcasters United and other events, I created real spaces for people to connect in person. That helped solidify my presence not just as a content creator, but as someone contributing to the culture and ecosystem.
I also focus on delivering value. Whether it’s highlighting entrepreneurs, educating people on business and real estate, or helping creators grow their platforms, everything I do is centered around impact. Over time, that consistency in value is what builds reputation.
At the end of the day, my reputation wasn’t built overnight it was built through showing up, staying true to the mission, and genuinely pouring into people.
Any advice for managing a team?
My advice for managing a team and maintaining high morale starts with leadership, not management. People don’t stay motivated because of titles they stay motivated because they feel valued, heard, and part of something meaningful.
The first thing is clear vision. Your team has to understand why they’re doing what they’re doing. When people feel like they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves, their level of engagement naturally increases.
Second is communication. I’ve learned that consistent, honest communication builds trust. That means not just giving direction, but also listening understanding your team’s challenges, ideas, and perspectives. When people feel heard, morale improves.
Another key is leading by example. You can’t expect energy, accountability, or consistency from your team if you’re not showing it yourself. I make it a point to show up, stay consistent, and handle challenges with the same mindset I expect from others.
Recognition also plays a big role. A lot of leaders overlook how far simple acknowledgment can go. Celebrating wins big or small keeps people motivated and reinforces a positive culture.
At the same time, you have to create an environment where growth is encouraged. That means coaching, giving constructive feedback, and helping people develop not just focusing on results, but on who they’re becoming in the process.
And lastly, I focus on culture. Whether it’s in business, podcasting, or events like Podcasters United, I try to build environments where people feel connected, supported, and inspired. When culture is strong, morale takes care of itself.
At the end of the day, managing a team isn’t about control it’s about creating an environment where people can perform at their best and actually enjoy being part of the journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/notyouravgagent?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=4cc51279-6cf1-4c14-ad6b-f4e5e5349e32
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notyouravgagent?igsh=MXh0MTRhcmhyZjhmaA==
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-gates-48b622b3?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thepullupexp?si=WN_xPvTY4bZIoaJN
