Reinventing Himself From Agency Owner to Productized Service
Download MP3In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt is joined by John Doherty, a seasoned entrepreneur who transitioned from running the SEO lead-generation agency Credo to launching and scaling a productized editing and content service, EditorNinja. John reflects on how burnout, shifting business economics, and a desire for more scalable operations led him to sell his agency and pursue a new venture focused on streamlined, high-volume content editing.
The conversation covers defining a productized service, navigating burnout, and embracing AI as a tool rather than a threat. John shares valuable lessons about aligning business models with personal goals, setting boundaries in client relationships, and strategically focusing on higher-value clients. EditorNinja, with its hybrid approach to human and AI-powered content production and editing, is positioned at the intersection of automation and quality. John believes it’s a key in the age of AI-saturated content.
The conversation covers defining a productized service, navigating burnout, and embracing AI as a tool rather than a threat. John shares valuable lessons about aligning business models with personal goals, setting boundaries in client relationships, and strategically focusing on higher-value clients. EditorNinja, with its hybrid approach to human and AI-powered content production and editing, is positioned at the intersection of automation and quality. John believes it’s a key in the age of AI-saturated content.
Key Takeaways
From Burnout to Breakthrough:
- John launched EditorNinja after hitting a plateau with his previous agency, Credo.
- Selling Credo allowed him to refocus on work aligned with his goals and energy.
What is EditorNinja?
- A content editing and writing service focused on helping content-heavy businesses scale.
- Offers human and AI-generated content, with a strong human editing layer.
- Positioned between freelancers and in-house editorial teams.
Defining Productized Services:
- Productization is about how services are delivered, not just pricing.
- Even “productized” businesses can accommodate custom, high-value deals with the right systems.
AI and Content Creation:
- AI generates 70–80% of the content EditorNinja edits.
- Human editing is essential for clarity, tone, and brand alignment.
- AI hasn’t replaced writing, but has shifted where value is created.
Targeting the Right Clients:
- EditorNinja focuses on businesses with $2+ million in revenue with dedicated content teams.
- Smaller companies often lack the consistency, budget, or infrastructure to sustain content programs.
- Strategic onboarding and custom quoting are crucial for long-term fit.
Important Links
- The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
- Visit the EditorNinja website: https://editorninja.com/
- Follow EditorNinja on YouTube for agency and content tips: https://www.youtube.com/@EditorNinja
- Connect with John Doherty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnfdoherty/
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