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As a creative, I’ve always been more motivated by the work than the money. But over a long career providing creative services to corporate clients, I’ve learned how much value creatives provide and should be compensated for. Today I use that knowledge to help creatives all over the world deal with difficult issues like negotiations.

  • Ted is a very important advisor to us, helping us navigate life’s dangerous terrains and influencing many triumphs. (When) Ted (explained) the nuances of how the Creative mind works for us, and often against us... I felt like somebody understood me, in a way that always existed, but I never fully understood myself.

    Khalid Mokhtarzada, CEO and Founding Partner, Pixel Dreams
  • While Ted wears his heart on his sleeve, he’s a force to reckon with. I admire his courageous vulnerability, unapologetic candor, and shrewd decisiveness. Ted has advised me through lows and highs, often with an interesting story from his life and an amusing reminder of the messiness of being human. His wisdom, advice, and encouragement have been tremendously valuable to me.

    Lannie Lee, Founding Partner, Pixel Dreams
  • Ted possesses a creative superpower that continually inspires and impresses me. Learning about Ted's underdog journey helped me find common ground and appreciate the depth of his experiences. Despite remarkable success, Ted remains grounded and humble, empathetic to the challenges faced by underdogs. This speaks volumes about his character and integrity. His story and creative genius make him an exceptional advisor.

    Trevor Landon, Founding Partner, Pixel Dreams
  • Ted’s life has made him keenly aware of the ugly parts of humanity (and himself). Yet, he remains an optimist. That sets the groundwork for what I value most in our conversations: we can discuss the ugly, uncomfortable truths while always circling back to what matters: the people, the underdogs, the work we get to do, and the magical existence we all get to share as creatives.

    Sarah Eskandarpour, Partner, Pixel Dreams
  • I can never predict how a talk with Ted will turn out. It’s always better than I expected! I’d bring up a topic, and... his take is comprehensive, sometimes broader, sometimes more nuanced, but most importantly, always human. He reminds me that we’re all messy human beings doing our best. After talking to Ted, I always feel energized and renewed. I’ve realized that chatting with him makes work anything but boring!

    Jenn Nguyen, Partner, Pixel Dreams
  • Thanks so much for a wonderful seminar. I left feeling not only generally more confident as a negotiator, but also specifically better-equipped with the strategies we’d spoken about — ‘Help me understand,’ changing the context, and issues vs. interests, to name a few.

    Kate Schenot, Producer
  • Ted -- my professional life feels better than ever this past year, and I credit your class and writings for being a significant influence on me. Thank you!

    Kevin Veatch
  • I love your stories and your writing.

    Melinda Hannah, Portrait Artist
  • Ted’s teaching about respect has helped me maintain and raise my pricing, without compromise. He’s right on target, helping me negotiate and land projects over and over again.

    John Granen, Photographer
  • Ted Leonhardt's "Changing the Context" seminar... was informative, fun, entertaining and... provided valuable information on negotiating, changing the context in a client/agency meeting and other insights. The... material crosses a wide variety of age categories and creative types and roles. I am convinced whatever your creative role you will learn or at the very least be reminded on how to move forward in stressful situations.

    Jacalyn H. Sr Account Executive, West Coast Agency
  • You never cease to amaze me with your willingness to make your life an open book – especially the more hurtful parts. But I’m also amazed by the lessons you draw – and share – from all of that. Thank you for making me one of those with whom you share.

    Larry Coffman, Publisher
  • You give the greatest advice on negotiating and very useful and brief stories from the creative world and how to overcome problems that we face every day!!

    Vuk Bojovic, MOX New Business NYC
  • Thank you Ted, for connecting with me. The seminar was great, and I’m gaining powerful techniques through the videos on your site, and I am already recognizing and avoiding bad situations.

    Bo Frank, Web Developer
  • Ted’s insights have helped us improve our pitches, presentations, and overall sales. We’ve closed more deals on our own terms in the last year than ever before.

    Brianna Home, Co-owner, Creative Agency
  • You are a source of inspiration both professionally and increasingly on a personal level, as your writing has revealed some very intimate, powerful lessons. I can’t wait to see where this leads.

    Rick Gore
  • I’ve used Ted’s ‘three-step close’ for years. It works every time.

    Emily Tennison, Account Executive
  • Ted’s whiteboard technique has been the single most effective closing method I’ve ever encountered. I use it weekly.

    Ross Beyeler, Owner, e-Commerce Design Consultancy
  • Thank you for being a source of encouragement and for sharing your journey so openly. Your words have not only motivated me but have also reminded me that with perseverance, we can overcome even the toughest beginnings. I’m very grateful for the impact you’ve had on my life and continue to be inspired by your writing and updates!

    Arianna O'Dell, Music and Tech Journalist
  • Ted, thanks - in a few short weeks we more than covered the cost of the seminar with new projects and better margins on existing business. Better still, the team feels much more comfortable talking about money with clients.

    Tim Perry, Managing Partner, London Design Firm
  • I would like to thank you again for a great coaching session. This was a huge breakthrough for us on so many levels. I am truly grateful to you for helping me frame this interview and focus on what mattered.

    Audrey West, Landscape Designer
  • Ted is an industry legend and has crafted his advice to be put to immediate use, and remain useful for the long game. I've used his coaching in the past, resulting in more valuable design for my clients, and getting paid what I'm worth.

    Bob Boulware
  • Your seminar energized me. In the past, money and asking for it has been an emotional, embarrassing topic for me. Now I know it's not personal and to how to combat my innate anxiety. I came away ready to tackle those formerly awkward conversations.

    Alicia B, Writer, NYC
  • I just had a phone interview with an agency, and of course the topic of salary came up. Because of all the tools you have provided, I was more than prepared to handle that part of the conversation.

    Scot Westwater

Mutual Mentors

I host these sessions from fall through spring on Saturdays, 10 to noon once a month, in our Bellingham home. The group is limited to 10. All you need to attend is $25 and a story related to the topic. Sign up below, for my emails to receive notifications, directions and to register for the next session.

Nail It

Nail It is a collection of stories about the struggles creatives face to get the money and respect they deserve. The stories all come from clients and students I’ve helped get what they need to succeed – for themselves, their clients and their employers. It’s a steal at $5… or, find out how you can get it for free!

“This little book packs a big wallop for job seekers. Finally, somebody is talking about money!”
— Ellen Shapiro

Communication Arts, September-October 2015