Last week, I found myself interviewing Cath Kidston in front of 50 creative entrepreneurs, and whilst I could tell you all about her incredible journey, what's more valuable is understanding how I came to be on that stage in the first place.

The truth is, you cannot build a creative business in isolation. Behind every successful creative entrepreneur I know is a network of genuine relationships that have amplified their voice and opened doors to opportunities they never could have created alone. This isn't about becoming a networking machine - it's about being intentional with your connections whilst staying true to your values.

Key Moments:

• [03:07] The foundation of business growth - why clear messaging comes before everything else
• [05:47] Meeting Sophie Perkins and how genuine relationships develop naturally over time
• [07:22] The internal battle between fear and opportunity - why I nearly said no
• [08:12] The extensive preparation behind a 30-minute interview and why it matters
• [09:29] The real return on investment from collaborative opportunities
• [11:15] Why viral moments aren't the goal - understanding what actually builds your business
• [12:34] The five-part framework for authentic networking and collaboration
• [14:40] How comfort zones limit business growth and why fear often signals opportunity
• [15:59] Practical next steps for building meaningful professional relationships

Notable Quotes:

"Comfort zones are not where businesses grow. They're where businesses stay exactly the same."

"You cannot build a creative business in isolation. Behind every successful creative entrepreneur is a network of genuine relationships that have amplified their voice."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: This Week's Full Journal Post
• Link: The Base Notes handbook
• Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: [email protected]

I'd love to hear about a time when you stepped outside your comfort zone for your business - what happened, and what did you learn? Perhaps you're considering an opportunity right now that feels a bit scary but aligned with your values. Send me a DM on Instagram - I read every message and genuinely love hearing about your experiences with putting yourself out there.

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