PASSION to PROFIT (Philippa Craddock)

This week kicks off a special three-part series dedicated to the foundations of branding. Whether you're starting out or refining your brand, this series will provide you with essential insights and practical tips to establish a strong and resonant brand identity. Here’s what we cover:

Introduction

• Launching our three-part series on branding.

• The importance of a strong brand identity for business success.

• Overview of what’s in store for this episode.

Understanding Branding

• Defining branding beyond just logos and taglines.

• The holistic nature of branding: values, mission, visual elements, voice, and customer experience.

• Why a strong brand identity is crucial for standing out in a competitive market.

Elements of a Strong Brand Identity

• Logo Design

• Importance of a memorable and simple logo.

• Practical tips on creating a logo using free online tools.

• Resources like Canva, Hatchful, and Vectr for DIY logo design.

• Colour Scheme

• How colours evoke emotions and influence brand perception.

• Tips for choosing a colour palette that aligns with your brand values.

• Typography

• The role of fonts in reflecting your brand's personality.

• Strategies for selecting and maintaining consistent typography.

• Tone of Voice

• How to define and maintain a consistent brand voice.

• Aligning tone with your brand’s mission and audience expectations.

Working with a Professional Designer

• Steps to create an effective design brief.

• Finding the right designer through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Behance.

• Tips for ensuring a successful collaboration with a designer.

Resources:

• Recommended free online tools: Canva, Hatchful, LogoMakr, DesignEvo, Vectr.
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com

• Instagram

There's something powerful I've discovered about business resolutions - only 8% ever succeed, but there's a clear pattern behind the ones that do. What I've uncovered about setting genuinely meaningful goals might transform how you approach your business growth this year...

Key Moments:

• [00:00] The paradox of expertise: Why we often dismiss our most valuable expertise as "too basic"
• [01:35] The valuable down time processing between one year and the next 
• [03:19] A different approach to New Year goals, focusing on steady growth rather than dramatic changes 
• [03:55] Where so many business goals start to go wrong and recognising the signs you're undervaluing your expertise
• [05:18] The difference between what we think we should be doing and and what we generally care about
• [07:21] How to make sure the goals you set really matter
• [10:44] The steps you can take to make sure you are on track and can hold focus

Notable Quotes:

 "When we focus only on discipline and pushing ourselves harder, we miss something really important - whether these goals actually matter deeply to us and whether they make genuine sense for our business."

"Studies reveal that when people pursue goals they genuinely care about, that have clear purpose and meaning for them, they're not only more likely to achieve them but also find the whole process more rewarding."

"It's not about forcing ourselves into a new routine or pushing through with pure determination - it's about working towards something that truly matters to us."

Resources:

• Read This Week's Full Journal Post

Share Your Insights:

What goals feel genuinely meaningful for your business this year? I'd love to hear about the changes you're considering and how they align with what really matters to you. - Head over to Instagram - @philippacraddock for a chat. I'm always here and genuinely love to discuss your insights and experiences... 

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Have you ever wondered if there's a better way to run your creative business - one that feels less exhausting and more aligned with who you truly are? After speaking with hundreds of you creative entrepreneurs out there, in many different fields, I've noticed a very common thread: the most successful creative businesses aren't built on following industry rules or pushing through limitations. They're built around the owner's natural strengths. In this episode, I'm very excitingly unveiling a new comprehensive support system I've been developing behind the scenes to help creative business owners uncover their unique strengths and turn them into a profitable business that's authentically yours.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Introduction to finding out what I have been pouring my heart into for the last 12 months
• [01:58] Reflection on last week’s concept of building a business around your exceptional strengths
• [04:36] The common challenges faced by creative entrepreneurs who aren't aligned with their strengths
• [06:29] My personal journey from kitchen table to seven-figure creative business
• [10:38] Introduction to the three-tier support system launching in 2025
• [11:02] 1. The Value Pop: Day-to-Day Handbook for Today's Creative Entrepreneur
• [13:13] 2. The Bright Line: A program focusing on value-based pricing
• [14:57] 3. The Colour Lab: A fully comprehensive program with community support
• [18:43] Why this approach differs from other business programs
• [19:52] Real transformation stories from creative entrepreneurs
• [26:31] My personal mission and work with my own mentor
• [28:28] Plans for a potential YouTube channel
• [29:22] Closing thoughts and invitation to join the waitlist

Notable Quotes:

"When your business isn't aligned with what you do best, it feels like an uphill battle —long hours, pricing struggles, constantly looking at others for answers."

"Most business advice starts with strategies, tactics, or one-size-fits-all blueprints. But I've seen time and again that these approaches often fail creative entrepreneurs."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: This Week's Journal Post
• Last week's Episode:  082. Finding Your Exceptional Strength: The Key To An Unstoppable Creative Business
• Handbook: The Value Pop Handbook 
• Program: The Bright Line Program 
• Program: The Colour Lab Program
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I would genuinely love to hear your thoughts on this episode and the upcoming programes. What you have to say really matters as many of our conversations go on to shape future content, so please do pop over to Instagram and send me a DM.

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Today we are exploring the five essential, practical strategies that have helped me, and countless others, strike the perfect balance between creativity and growing a successful business. My hope is that by the end of our conversation, you will have new ideas ready to implement today. Whether you are in the early stages of a business idea or you are in the throes of growing your business, I would love to help you find that sweet spot between following your true creative vision and running a successful and profitable business.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Welcome and introduction to essential business balancing strategies
• [01:35] The myth of choosing between creativity and profitability
• [02:57] Strategy 1: Setting clear goals and priorities - My Selfridges goal 
• [07:39] Strategy 2: Organisation and efficiency secrets for creative minds 
• [09:45] Strategy 3: Strategic collaboration opportunities 
• [11:14] Strategy 4: Continuous growth mindset for creative businesses 
• [12:37] Strategy 5: Maintaining authentic creative vision 
• [13:10] Case Study: Patagonia's balance of creativity and commerce
• [14:41] Case Study: Little Seed Farm's artistic integrity in business
• [16:05] Practical implementation guidance and closing thoughts

Notable Quotes:

"Remember that your creativity is what sets you apart from others in your field, and it's what makes your work special and valuable."

"I believe it's so important that your goals must genuinely excite you, these are not labourous tasks, but a clear vision of something that will bring huge value and benefit into your life."

Resources Mentioned:

• Case Studies - Patagonia / Little Seed Farm
• Website Philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear which of these Five Strategies resonates most with your creative business journey. Share your thoughts or DM me on Instagram @philippacraddock - I very much try to read and respond to every message!

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Ready to boost your confidence?  In this episode, we look into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome, exploring how it impacts your work and self-worth.

Join me as I uncover practical strategies to recognise, reframe, and conquer these feelings of self-doubt. From personal anecdotes to actionable steps, learn how to turn imposter syndrome into a source of motivation and growth.

I discuss the importance of celebrating your achievements, seeking feedback and support, and embracing imperfection.

Whether you experience occasional self-doubt or chronic imposter syndrome, this episode provides valuable insights to help you transform your mindset and fuel your entrepreneurial journey with confidence and resilience. Listen to empower yourself and take the next step toward your business success.

• www.philippacraddock.com

In this week’s episode, where we’re exploring a challenge that so many creative business owners face. How to stay true to your artistic vision while also running a profitable business. It’s a delicate balance, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can absolutely achieve both. Whether you’ve struggled with maintaining your creative integrity or making smart business decisions, this episode offers practical advice to help you navigate both worlds.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Balancing Art and Business: We start by discussing what it really means to balance creativity with commerce. How can you protect your creative vision while ensuring your business thrives financially? I’ll share insights on finding that sweet spot where art and business complement each other.

• Maintaining Artistic Integrity: We talk about how to stay aligned with your values and creative vision, even when tempting financial opportunities arise. I’ll share strategies on setting boundaries and making sure your brand remains authentic and true to your core beliefs.

• Making Smart Business Decisions: Your business needs to be sustainable and profitable. We’ll discuss how to make decisions that support your long-term success, like pricing your work correctly, understanding your market, and making strategic choices without compromising your creative essence.

• Strategies for Balancing Creativity and Profit: I’ll walk you through practical tips for setting both creative and financial goals, managing your time, and making intentional decisions that allow your creativity and business to thrive side by side.

Key Takeaways:

• It is possible to balance your creative passion with the need to make smart, profitable business decisions.

• Protecting your artistic integrity is crucial for long-term success and brand authenticity.

• Knowing your numbers and making informed choices will help your business flourish without sacrificing your creative vision.

• Setting clear goals, both creative and financial, is key to maintaining this balance.

This episode is all about empowering you to build a business that honours both your creative vision and your financial needs.

Contact Us:

• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com 
• Instagram: @philippacraddock

Here's a counterintuitive truth about business growth that surprised me - the creative business owners seeing the strongest results aren't the ones constantly working. Instead, they're mastering the art and reaping the benefits of periodically stepping away entirely. I've noticed something remarkable in my own business too - our biggest breakthroughs and clearest strategic decisions have often emerged when i gave myself true permission to rest. Today I'm sharing the evidence and strategy behind this approach, and why it might transform how you think about success in your creative business.

Key Moments:

• [01:35] Welcome and personal festive reflections
• [04:31] Why breaks matter most when we feel we can't take them
• [06:47] The research behind rest and business clarity
• [07:26] How strategic pauses differ from simply stopping work
• [10:11] Practical preparation for taking proper breaks
• [11:45] Building client trust through clear boundaries
• [13:21] How natural clarity emerges during real rest
• [15:52] The importance of unstructured thinking time
• [18:00] Strategies for maintaining clarity upon return

Notable Quotes:

 "Strategic pauses help you recover and they create intentional space for growth. Those quiet moments, when we're not actively pushing forward, often become the foundation for our next phase of growth."

"When we're constantly in motion, constantly responding and doing, we're often working from habit rather than intention. A strategic pause gives us the chance to see if those habits are still serving us well."

Resources Mentioned:

• Related Episode: 023 - 'How to Unlock Your Best Ideas'
• Read This Week's Full Journal Post

Share Your Insights:

What has been your most powerful insight that came during a moment of rest? I'd love to hear your experience - Share your thoughts with me over on Instagram - @philippacraddock I'm always here and love to discuss your insights and experiences... 

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, first access to new offerings, and weekly doses of practical wisdom for growing your creative business.

Do you ever feel like you're "playing" at being a business owner, even while running a legitimate, successful creative business? In this episode, we delve into the entrepreneur identity crisis so many creatives face, that disconnect between doing the work and fully owning the title of business owner. We explore how creative entrepreneurs can bridge the gap between their craft and their CEO mindset, without compromising their values or individuality. You'll hear practical shifts around mindset, language, boundaries, systems, and environment that will help reinforce your identity as a confident, capable business owner. This episode isn't about becoming more corporate. it's about recognising that your creative approach is your biggest business asset. If you've ever struggled with imposter syndrome, undercharging, or hesitation around owning your success, this is the permission slip and strategy session you need.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Introduction to the entrepreneur identity crisis many creative business owners experience
• [01:45] The story of a brand designer who still feels like she's "playing at being a business owner"
• [03:08] Exploring the gap between what we're doing (running businesses) and how we see ourselves
• [04:22] The mental image of what a "proper" entrepreneur looks like and why it doesn't fit creatives
• [06:02] The hidden costs of the creative-business identity disconnect
• [07:36] Research from IBM and McKinsey on creativity as a key factor for business success - Creativity officially a superpower in business, not a disadvantage
• [08:26] How creative thinking provides unique advantages in business problem-solving
• [12:04] The importance of intentional language in how we describe ourselves and our work
• [14:45] Creating clear boundaries around your work while maintaining creative flexibility
• [16:57] Implementing simple systems that support creativity rather than hindering it 
• [18:15] How your physical workspace impacts your business identity
• [19:34] Why your business is legitimate regardless of its size or location
• [22:11] Creating a ‘professional container’ for your creative work that enhances rather than diminishes it
• [24:55] The confidence shift that happens when you fully embrace your creative business identity 

Notable Quotes:

"What if instead of trying to fit our creative businesses into traditional business models, we recognised that our creative approach is exactly what gives us an edge?"

"Your creative perspective isn't something to overcome – it's your greatest business strength. When you fully embrace that truth, the identity gap begins to close, not because you've changed who you are, but because you've recognised the value of who you've always been."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: The Full Journal post
• Ref: Creative Industries Federation research on creative business identities
• Ref: IBM global survey on creativity in business
• Ref: McKinsey research on creative capabilities and business performance
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear how you balance your creative and business identities. What has helped you embrace your role as a creative entrepreneur? Share your experiences with me over on Instagram – I'm genuinely interested in your journey and insights on this topic.

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights into running a creative business. Be the first to receive access to new content and resources. It's where I share my most thoughtful observations about building a business that feels naturally aligned with your expertise.

This episode explores why many business owners unknowingly compromise their expertise when trying to serve their clients well. If you've ever wondered whether you're truly going above and beyond or simply doing too much, this episode reveals the crucial differences.

Key Moments: 

• [] What going "above and beyond" really means in business
• [] Three clear signs you're being taken advantage of 
• [] Setting expectations that protect both you and your clients
• [] Why we often undervalue our expertise
• [] Professional ways to handle scope creep
• [] Creating sustainable systems for exceptional service
• [] When it's time to reassess client relationships

Notable Quotes:

"Those moments when you're handling complex situations with ease? That's not just getting the job done - that's expertise you've developed over years, even if it feels completely normal to you."

"Being generous with your service is admirable, but if it starts to impact your business's sustainability or your wellbeing, it's time to take a step back."

"Clients who understand and appreciate your value will respect your pricing. Those who push for discounts or try to undervalue your work are not the ideal clients you want in the long run."

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Guide: Fully Embrace Your Value - Download this guide to help you confidently communicate your worth
• Read this week's full journal post
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

What's your experience with maintaining professional boundaries while delivering exceptional service? Feel free to share your thoughts with me on Instagram @philippacraddock - I read every message and would love to hear your perspective!

Never Miss an Episode: 

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and first access to new offerings. Each week, I share additional thoughts and practical tips that don't make it into the podcast.

A concise 3-page Business Plan can be a game-changer! In today's episode, we dive into the world of business plans in a straightforward, inspiring, and exciting way. Whether you’re starting a new business or refining an existing one, this episode will help bring clarity and direction to your offering.

Here’s what we cover:

Introduction

• The importance of a simple and clear business plan.

• How a concise plan helped clarify our business direction after a major pivot.

Understanding the Purpose of a Business Plan

• Definition and significance of a business plan.

• The benefits of having a concise business plan for personal clarity and business refinement.

• A look back at Episode 038 on assessing the viability of business ideas.

• The role of a business plan in evaluating market demand and financial feasibility.

Key Components of a Three-Page Business Plan

1. Opening Summary: Overview of your business idea and goals.

2. Company Description: Your business concept, vision, and mission. Link to Episode 043

3. Market Analysis: Insights into your target market and competition.

4. Products or Services: Detailed descriptions and unique selling points.

5. Marketing and Sales Strategy: Plans for attracting and retaining customers.

6. Financial Overview: Basic financial projections and budgeting.

Drafting Your Business Plan

• Define your business goals and gather relevant information.

• Create a rough outline and draft each section, focusing on clarity and relevance.

• Keep your plan simple, concise, and aligned with your business goals and values.

• Practical tips and exercises for drafting each component.

Practical Exercises and Tips

• Writing a compelling Opening Summary.

• Crafting a clear and concise Company Description.

• Conducting Market Analysis and highlighting your competitive edge.

• Describing your Products or Services and their benefits.

• Planning your Marketing and Sales Strategy.

• Creating a basic Financial Overview.

Thank you for joining us today! I hope you feel motivated to write your 3-page business plan and transform your ideas into a clear, actionable roadmap.

• Instagram: @philippacraddock

Resources:

• Episode: 044. Crafting A Vision Starement
• Episode: 038. Is your Idea a Perfect Business Idea
• Email: hello@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com

Do you struggle to find budget for marketing?

Here we delve into effective, low-cost marketing strategies that are perfect for small creative business owners. I share practical steps and methods that can help you grow your brand without a significant financial outlay. Here’s what we cover:

Introduction

• The significance of marketing on a budget.

• Personal experience transitioning from a flower design business to supporting creative entrepreneurs.

• The effectiveness of practical, low-investment marketing strategies.

Understanding Budget Marketing

• Definition and importance of budget marketing.

• Benefits of cost-effective strategies for small businesses.

• The role of creativity and innovation in budget marketing.

Common Challenges Faced by Small Business Owners

• Financial constraints and resource allocation.

• Lack of expertise and time management.

• Measuring marketing effectiveness.

Practical Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Marketing:

• Tips for leveraging Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

• Best practices for creating engaging content.

• Engaging with your audience and building a community.

• Content Marketing:

• The importance of valuable, relevant content.

• Types of content: blogs, videos, social media posts, and podcasts.

• Creating content that attracts and retains customers.

• Email Marketing:

• Building and maintaining an email list.

• Benefits of email marketing for small businesses.

• Tips for creating effective email newsletters.

Leveraging Online Platforms and Tools

• Budget-friendly tools for marketing: Canva, Adobe Spark, and Google My Business.

• The importance of online reviews and encouraging positive feedback.

• Basic SEO practices to improve website visibility.

Strategic Partnerships

• Forming partnerships with complementary businesses.

• Tips for effective collaborations.

• The power of word-of-mouth and referral marketing.

Measuring and Adjusting Your Marketing Efforts

• Defining clear objectives and KPIs.

• Using analytics tools to track performance.

• Gathering qualitative feedback and adjusting strategies accordingly.
  
  

I hope you findd this episode helpful and inspiring. Remember, effective marketing doesn't require a huge budget. Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant results over time. Start with one or two strategies that resonate most with you and build from there.

Resources:

• Episode Link: 025. My Personal Guide To Instagram
• Episode Link: 040. Interview With Nick Jenkins (Part 1)
• Episode Link: 041. Interview With Nick Jenkins (Part 2)
• Email: hello@philippacraddock.com 
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Instagram: @philippacraddock

What if the industry 'shoulds' you've been following are actually holding you back? In this episode, we will explore how to distinguish between conventional business advice that genuinely fuels success and the practices that don’t align with your strengths. Through personal insights and real-world examples, I share how trusting your instincts and building a business around your natural working style can lead to greater profitability, sustainability, and long-term success.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Introduction to the perception of industry ’Shoulds’
• [01:50] Spotting the different types of business “Shoulds" and their impact on us and our businesses
• [07:42] The project management tool revelation - when industry standards don't serve us
• [14:45] Distinguishing between growth challenges and misaligned practices
• [17:34] How to transform perceived limitations into business strengths
• [19:20] Practical ways to build systems around your natural working style
• [21:42] Creating sustainable success by trusting your professional instinct

Notable Quotes:

"Our biggest successes often come precisely when we have the courage to step away from those misaligned 'shoulds' and trust our natural way of working."

"Sometimes the very best thing we can do for our businesses is to have the courage to say 'That might work brilliantly for others, but it's not right for me.'"

Resources Mentioned:

• Read this week's full journal post
• news@philippacraddock.com
• www.philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear about your experience with business "shoulds" - when have you trusted your instincts and found it led to something better? I always love to hear your thoughts and perspective, so please do drop me a line on Instagram,

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. Each week, I share practical strategies for building a sustainable, profitable business that aligns with your natural strengths.

Today we'll be exploring one of the key secrets that separates the most successful brands from the rest: crafting a powerful and engaging brand story.

Stories help us make sense of the world around us and connect with others on a deeper level. And that's why, in marketing, telling stories is a powerful way to engage with your audience, for them to relate and connect with your brand and to help them see the genuine value in all your offerings.

As humans, we will invest in things that make us feel something. It’s a noisy world out there, and it’s essential for the success of your brand, that you make people connect with your brand on a deeper level. People need to be able to relate to your story and link to your products or service, directly as a solution to something they want, desire and/or need. 

We'll discuss the importance of storytelling in marketing, the psychology behind why stories work, and how you can create a brand story that truly resonates with your target audience. With real-life examples and actionable tips, you'll learn how to elevate your brand and create lasting connections with your customers. 

I’ve included the eight key points, to help you craft your brand story in the show notes, so click below to help you to start crafting your own compelling brand story, plus you'll find a link to a brilliant free reference guide, full of prompts and more examples.

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If you have a product based business, this week’s episode might just be something you have dreamt about—getting your products into major retailers like Selfridges & Co., John Lewis, or Ocado. I’ve been there myself, and I know how it can feel like a big, distant goal. But today, I’m chatting with Nic Waller, a leading brand buyer who has worked with some of the biggest names in British retail and has helped countless brands, including mine.

Nic has worked with brands across the board at Selfridges, John Lewis, M&S, Waitrose and Ocado. She’s got a down-to-earth approach, and her advice is practical and easy to apply, no matter what stage your business is at. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to get your brand noticed by a big retailer, this episode is for you!

What We Cover in This Episode:

• What Retailers Really Look For in Small Brands: It’s not about how big your brand is or how many followers you have. Nic shares the key things that actually grab a buyer's attention—things like your story, your product’s uniqueness, and how well you align with the retailer's values.

• How to Approach Retailers Without Feeling Intimidated: I know reaching out to a big retailer can feel scary, but Nic walks us through how to approach them with confidence. From getting your pitch and emails right to knowing when to reach out, she shares the steps to make it easier and less overwhelming.

• The Importance of Persistence: Landing a deal doesn’t happen overnight, and Nic talks about why following up is so important. She also gives tips on how to stay in touch with buyers in a way that feels natural and not pushy.

• Why Your Size Doesn’t Matter as Much as You Think: This is one of my favourite takeaways. Nic reassures us that you don’t have to be a big name to get noticed by top retailers. If your product is great and you’re clear about what makes you different, you’ve got a solid chance!

Key Takeaways:

• Buyers are looking for authenticity, innovation, and a good fit with their customer base.

• Confidence in your pitch and preparation will go a long way when approaching retailers.

• Persistence is key—keep those relationships alive with consistent follow-ups.

• You don’t need to be a massive brand to land a deal; it’s about what you bring to the table.

Contact Us:

• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com 
• Instagram: @philippacraddock

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. Each week, you'll receive practical guidance and thoughtful strategies to help you build a sustainable and profitable creative business.

I was thinking the other day, how so often we come across incredible information that might make a difference to our lives and our businesses, that great feeling of what might be possible for us to achieve when we discover a brilliant and valuable resource. We are excited to implement the ideas and put them to use and then … 

… something distracts us, and the idea begins to fade into the background and can often be soon forgotten amidst the whirlwind of our busy schedules, leaving these opportunities unexplored and uncapitalised.

Now imagine this - what if there WAS a method that helped us to capture all those ideas easily and strategically, to help us make use of them and put them into action? Wouldn't that be amazing? Well, that's precisely what we're exploring today.

Guide

• Sorry but this guide is no longer available..
• www.philippacraddock.com

What is a Vision Statement and why is it so important?

Unlock the power of a compelling vision statement, Discover why it is more than just words. It's a guiding star that shapes your business's long-term goals and aspirations. 

Learn the differences between vision and mission statements and how a clear vision provides clarity, direction, and inspiration. Explore case studies from top brands like Patagonia, IKEA, and Nike, 

Listen and gain practical tips to craft an effective vision statement for your own business. 

• www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: hello@philippacraddock.com

Today we'll be discussing the benefits and challenges of working for yourself.

If you've ever dreamed of ditching the 9-to-5 and taking control of your own destiny, this episode is for you. We'll explore the freedom and flexibility that comes with being your own boss, as well as some of the hurdles you might face along the way. From setting your own hours to choosing the projects that align with your passions, we'll cover it all. 

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What I've discovered about networking completely changed my perspective - and if the word 'networking' makes you feel uncomfortable, this episode will show you how to transform those connections into something genuinely enjoyable and natural.

For many of us, networking conjures images of crowded rooms, awkward handshakes, and perfecting sales pitches. But what if we could reframe it entirely? Today, we're exploring how to make authentic connections that energise rather than exhaust you, with five practical strategies that feel natural and meaningful.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] A fresh Perspective On Networking For Those Who Typically Avoid It
• [01:39] Why Traditional Networking Often Feels Uncomfortable
• [02:35] The Two Natural Approaches To Making Connections
• [04:10 Personal Experience Examples - Being Proactive With Opportunities
• [06:45] Five practical strategies for genuine connections
• [07:23] Strategy 1: Being Authentically Yourself
• [07:41] Strategy 2: Making Industry Events Work For You
• [08:07] Strategy 3: Using Social Media Meaningfully
• [08:39] Strategy 4: Finding Collaborative Opportunities
• [09:09] Strategy 5: Creating Mutual Growth Experiences

Notable Quotes:

"Let's think about it as simply making positive connections with like-minded souls. For me, networking is meeting like-minded creatives, learning, sharing, embracing different perspectives and actively seeking different sources of inspiration."

"Each time you meet a new person, you are entering into a new world. This person has connections, relationships and contacts that are unique to them."

"None of these have involved any exchange in money, instead, we have all mutually gained rich experiences."

Resources Mentioned:

• 'LastPass' - password management system
• Read our journal 

Share Your Insights:

If you've found your own way to make genuine connections in business, I'd love to hear about it. Share your experience with me on Instagram @philippacraddock - where I personally read and respond to every message.

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and exclusive resources. Each week, I share additional thoughts that didn't make it into the episode, plus practical implementation tips you won't want to miss.

A while ago, I came across an article in the magazine Fast Company, that caught my attention - 5 RED FLAGS TO WATCH OUT FOR WHEN WORKING WITH START-UPS. The article was insightful, and from my personal experience over the last 14 years, it really did focus on the areas that matter the most, and it also highlighted the areas to avoid, the areas where we can easily waste our time and where we shouldn’t be focussed.

The concept of the article was to help investors make sensible decisions when investing with start-ups, but it was bigger than that, as it also offered superb insights for anyone who was thinking about starting their own business and business owners at all stages of start-up and growth.

In the busy-ness of our days, as we are juggling multiple roles, it can absolutely feel overwhelming when we try to figure what needs the most attention within our business, or for budding entrepreneurs, where should we be placing our focus in the future. What are the key aspects that will help us to refine and grow, and ultimately for us to really enjoy the day-to-day successful running of businesses.

I have definitely been there where things have felt messy, and it has taken me many years to streamline processes and understand where my attention should be placed. And I would love to fast-track that for you, to help you avoid some of the mistakes I have made and the detailed learnings I have gone through.

I hope you will be able to quickly identify the areas where you are already strong and the areas that might need a little attention, and you can then apply these quick and practical strategies to get you back on track, and into a wholly positive place.

I really hope this episode will help you enormously.

• ChatGPT copywriting guide
• www.philippacraddock.com

Exploring the transformative power of perseverance in business. Whether you're a creative entrepreneur just starting out or running an established business, every business owner faces moments of discomfort, uncertainty, and self-doubt. But what if that discomfort isn't a sign of failure? What if it's actually the key to your business's success?

Through my own personal experiences I'll guide you through practical strategies to embrace discomfort and turn it into your greatest business asset. We explore how challenges and setbacks are an inevitable part of all our entrepreneurial journies and how they can serve as stepping stones to greater growth, confidence, and sustainable success.

Key Moments:

• [02:15] The hidden reality behind social media content - why you rarely see the 'messy middle' of business growth
• [03:27] My personal experience of recording 50 podcast episodes before the fear subsided
• [06:03] Finding an approach that works for you versus following standard advice
• [07:34] The relationship between discomfort and meaningful business growth
• [10:23] My two-year journey to secure a Selfridges concession despite consistent rejection
• [15:40] Why many stop just before breakthrough happens - four common patterns
• [19:25] How asking for specific feedback turned rejection into a clear path forward to growth
• [22:10] The story of landing my first prestigious venue client through persistence
• [25:43] How to distinguish between productive discomfort and misalignment
• [30:23] Five practical ways to build persistence into your business framework
• [34:59] The natural progression from £1,000 to £500,000 projects through incremental growth
• [38:38] A message for both established and new business owners feeling deflated

Notable Quotes:

"The difference between those who eventually succeed and those who don't isn't talent or resources or luck – it's simply the willingness to continue slightly longer than seems reasonable. To push just a bit further when everything in you wants to stop."

"What looks like failure is actually just part of the process. Meaningful business success rarely happens overnight - it's built through consistent effort despite discomfort."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read This Week's Journal Post
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com
• Persistence framework checklist available on our website

Share Your Insights:

Have you pushed through something that initially terrified you in your business? Or perhaps you're in an uncomfortable chapter right now? I'd love to hear your experience. Pop over to Instagram for a chat - I will always help where i can and your questions and insights often shape future episodes.

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In today’s episode, we are getting into an essential topic for every creative entrepreneur—SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the technical side of SEO or wondered how to make your business more visible online, this episode is definitely for you. We’re breaking down SEO into simple, actionable steps that can help you improve your website’s ranking, attract the right customers, and grow your business.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Understanding SEO Basics: We kick things off by explaining what SEO really means and how it can help your business. Discover how search engines work and why optimising your website can increase your visibility in a crowded marketplace. Learn how SEO goes beyond keywords and plays a crucial role in your overall marketing strategy.

• Keyword Research Simplified: We walk through the process of finding the right keywords for your business. Learn how to put yourself in your customers' shoes, brainstorm effective keywords, and use tools like Google Keyword Planner to refine your search terms. Plus, we share tips on how to naturally incorporate those keywords into your website content.

• On-Page SEO Essentials: We cover some quick, easy wins for optimising your website pages, including title tags, meta descriptions, headers, and image optimisation. You’ll also learn about the importance of mobile-friendly design and how to ensure your website is accessible on any device.

• Creating Valuable Content for SEO: Discover how creating high-quality, valuable content is one of the most effective ways to boost your SEO. We explore how blogging, FAQs, and resource pages can attract more visitors to your site and keep them engaged. Plus, learn the importance of balancing keywords with meaningful, reader-focused content.

• Building Backlinks for Success: Backlinks are key to boosting your SEO ranking. We share practical strategies for building quality backlinks through guest blogging, partnerships, and social media sharing to amplify your content’s reach and establish your site as an authority in your niche.

• Tracking Your SEO Efforts: Finally, we discuss how to measure the success of your SEO strategy using tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Learn how to track your progress, analyse your traffic, and make adjustments to continuously improve your website’s visibility and performance.

Key Takeaways:

• SEO is all about making your business easier to find online by improving your website’s visibility in search results.

• Keyword research is the foundation of a good SEO strategy—choose words your audience is already searching for.

• Simple on-page SEO adjustments, like optimising title tags and meta descriptions, can have a big impact on your site’s performance.

• Creating valuable, relevant content keeps visitors engaged and signals to search engines that your site is worth ranking highly.

• Backlinks from reputable websites can greatly enhance your SEO ranking and online authority.

• Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to monitor your SEO performance and make data-driven improvements.

SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and by taking small, manageable steps, you’ll start to see the results in your business. Let me know how you’re implementing these strategies—I can’t wait to hear about your SEO success!

Resources:

• Google Keyword Planner / Google Planner / Google Search Console
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Instagram: @philippacraddock

What I've discovered about business planning for creative entrepreneurs is fascinating - In this episode I share why traditional rigid frameworks often work against creative entrepreneurs, and how a more flexible approach can lead to both better results and greater wellbeing...

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Philippa explains how creative entrepreneurs can benefit from adaptable planning while maintaining clear direction.
• [01:43] Challenge rigid frameworks: Explore the tension creative entrepreneurs face with structured planning methods that may not suit their style.
• [03:27] Transform self-doubt: Discover how rigid roadmaps can lead to feelings of failure and how flexibility can foster growth.
• [05:33] Validate with research: Philippa shares statistics on mental health in entrepreneurship, advocating for flexibility to combat burnout.
• [07:14] Enhance resilience: Understand how integrating adaptability can help businesses outperform competitors and sustain growth.
• [12:31] Align with natural rhythms: Recognise personal productivity patterns and plan work around them to boost creativity and satisfaction.
• [13:50] Implement review moments: Learn the importance of supportive review points for reflection and adjustment without pressure.
• [14:21] Leverage personal strengths: Emphasise aligning business strategies with personal strengths to achieve financial success.
• [16:01] Focus on key areas: Identify one or two significant areas for the upcoming quarter, allowing flexibility based on effectiveness.
• [18:09] Build a serving business: Philippa highlights the importance of a business model that aligns with personal values and strengths.

Notable Quotes:

"When we align our planning with our natural way of working, the results can be quite remarkable."

"Flexibility in business isn't about having no direction - it's about having a clear direction with the ability to adjust your course as needed."

"What makes this approach particularly powerful for creative businesses is how it supports both growth and innovation - being strategically adaptable in a way that supports both business growth and creative excellence."

Resources Mentioned:

• McKinsey Research on Flexible Planning
• PwC Business Leadership Study
• Deloitte Resilience Report
• Quarterly Planning Guide Waitlist
• The Week's Full Journal Post
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

What's your experience with business planning? Perhaps you've noticed certain approaches that naturally work better for you? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Head to Instagram for a chat. I’d love to hear your experiences or perhaps you have ideas for upcoming topics on the show...

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Over the last few weeks, I’ve been out and about quite a lot, at various industry events, and socially, where I’ve had the privilege of meeting numerous small business owners. One thing struck me in many of these interactions - despite having a brand, a customer base, and various marketing strategies in place, many were facing similar challenges. They enjoyed aspects of their business but were also dealing with many elements they didn’t enjoy as much. More importantly, they were making money, but not enough to feel it equated to the effort they were putting in. There was this sense of stress and uncertainty about how to move their business forward to a place where they felt rewarded and fulfilled.

This got me thinking. What if there was a simple yet powerful formula, a kind of guidance system, for business owners to follow? Something that could help them focus on what’s truly important to take their business to a healthier, more profitable place. I know it sounds incredibly simple, but often, the solution to complex problems lies in simplicity. So, I pondered over what makes a brand successful, the key attributes needed, and what entrepreneurs should really concentrate on.

And thus, the PRESS framework was born.

• Link to our Programmes.
• Link to Instagram @philippacraddock
• www.philippacraddock.com

Today’s episode is a special one. I’m incredibly excited to share something I’ve been working on so hard behind the scenes, it’s literally months in the making and a unique opportunity that has the potential to be a game-changer for so many of you.

Over the last few months, I have received literally hundreds of messages from our community, all with a similar theme, that you have huge amounts on your plate, you have this weighted feeling of not knowing where to start, how to define or prioritise your goals, many of you are feeling easily distracted and reactive, rather than being truly and positively proactive and you often finish the day feeling like you haven’t really moved forwards, you struggle to manage your time and often lose momentum and motivation, you struggle to balance your work and personal life and time management is an ongoing issue.

And this is exactly why I have created my masterclass, if you can relate to what I have said, it is so very much for you, to help you work through and overcome each of these barriers, to confidently define and prioritise your goals and then action them simply and efficiently, without stress, procrastination or overwhelm. And my aim, is for you to wake up each morning feeling motivated and inspired, calm and happy, taking confident steps forwards to achieve your goals and your dreams.

If you would love to hear more, alongside some personal stories from early in my business, grab a cosy spot and I can’t wait to share it all with you … let’s explore how this masterclass can be the catalyst for achieving the success you’ve been dreaming of.

• The Goal-Getters Masterclass is not presently being run: Please do though follow this link to see what courses are coming soon: Up and coming programmes

I’m excited to share this episode with you, it’s a real shorty, as I know we are all busy at this time of year. We're taking a step back to appreciate all that we have achieved and learnt this year. It's a moment to reflect on the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the victories celebrated.

When we talk about growing a business, we often focus on strategies, plans, and tangible goals. But there's a less discussed, yet equally powerful tool at our disposal – reflection. Reflection isn't just about reminiscing or dwelling on the past. It's a strategic exercise, a moment of pause to acknowledge our journey, learn from our experiences, and recalibrate ready for the next steps and goals that we would love to achieve.

Something incredible happened on a recent trip to Nashville where I caught up with thirty incredible female entrepreneurs. What I realised during this time has completely shifted how I see business growth - and it might well transform how you view your own path to success. It's not about adding more complexity; it's about recognising something you already have...

Key Moments

• [00:00] Reflections from Nashville - An incredible experience with thirty female entrepreneurs that changed my perspective
• [01:24] My lightbulb moment and why it matters for you: The power of building a business that feels completely natural
• [03:15] The truth about my seven-figure businesses - how quiet determination and natural instincts created more success than following rigid rules
• [04:29] Why complex business strategies often don't serve us well - what I've learned from years of working with creative business owners
• [05:32] The remarkable shift when business owners start trusting their instincts - real stories of transformation
• [06:52] Moving beyond traditional business advice - why simpler, more aligned approaches create stronger results
• [07:46] From department store contracts to a royal wedding - how trusting my instincts led to extraordinary opportunities
• [09:10] What this means for your business - embracing your natural strengths to create sustainable success
• [10:14] Your invitation to build something genuine - practical steps to trust your own path forward

Notable Quotes

"Every significant step forward in my business has happened when I've quietly trusted my instincts and focused on what felt natural to me."

"When we strip everything back and focus on what actually works for us individually, that's when things start to feel easier, clearer, and yes, more successful too."

"There's a real difference between doing something that feels challenging but right, and forcing yourself to use approaches that feel fundamentally wrong."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read This Week's Full Journal Post
• www.philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear your thoughts on building a business that feels natural to you. What approaches have you found work best? Share your experience with me over on Instagram 

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and early access to new content. Each week, I share additional thoughts and practical tips that don't make it into the podcast, plus exclusive resources to help you build a business that feels genuinely aligned with who you are.

This week I am looking at ways to help you break free from the limitations of your everyday life and transform your dreams into tangible outcomes. From research, I've discovered that it's thought only a staggering 8% of goals are ever achieved, which really blows my mind. In this episode I share the six crucial steps that have helped me consistently achieve my goals, making them something exciting to work towards rather than pipe dreams that never materialise.

Key Moments

• [00:00] Welcome and discovering how to break free from limitations
• [01:39] Understanding how to transform your dreams into tangible outcomes
• [02:40] Overview of the six essential steps for sustainable goal achievement
• [03:01] Step One - Purpose: Understanding your deeper motivation
• [05:08] Step Two - Steps: Creating achievable daily actions
• [07:23] Step Three - Consistency: Establishing your natural rhythm
• [08:52] Step Four - Growth: Embracing new skills and possibilities
• [09:54] Step Five - Support: Building your success network
• [10:59] Step Six - Measure: Setting meaningful targets that drive progress
• [12:55] Practical implementation: Bringing all steps together

Notable Quotes

"Don't just focus on the singularity of the goal itself, instead focus on how the goal will impact your life, your sense of self, your lifestyle, your family."

"We place targets and measurements on everything we do... If we simply just hoped for a little more than before, we wouldn't know whether we were achieving our goals, and it wouldn't drive us forward."

Share Your Insights

I'd love to hear which of the six steps resonates most with you - share your thoughts with me on Instagram, where I read every message personally.

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Join my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and exclusive resources that complement each episode

A few months ago, I wrote a journal post titled Embracing Fine, the antithesis to that feeling of perfectionism, and from receiving a bunch of messages on Instagram afterwards, it clearly resonated with so many people. I feel that as a community, perfectionism is a trait that often runs deep, and as wonderful as it initially sounds, it is huge obstacle that can slow and often even halt incredible, potential growth. So I am excited to bring this into a podcast episode and I hope it helps hugely!

I share a series of steps I’ve taken to fine-tune my need for perfection and to willingly embrace “fine”. I discuss how this concept has revolutionised my business and personal life and share stories that vividly illustrate the transformative power of how 'fine' has led to unexpected success, innovation, and personal growth.

Furthermore, i debunk the myth of perfection, revealing it as a hindrance rather than a beacon of progress. By shifting our focus from the quest for perfection to embracing the journey of creation itself, we allow ourselves the freedom to explore, grow, and make significant strides forward.

Ultimately, my hope is that you'll be inspired to adopt this mindset in your own life. To see 'fine' as not quite good enough, but as a testament to courage, authenticity, and the beauty of growth - the liberating power of embracing 'fine'!

• www.philippacraddock.com

Welcome back to our three-part series on building a robust brand identity! In this second episode, we dive deep into two critical aspects of branding: understanding your target audience and developing a unique brand voice. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your brand, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you create a brand that truly resonates with your audience.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Identifying Your Target Audience:
  We discuss the importance of knowing who your audience is, what they care about, and how to effectively tailor your branding efforts to speak directly to them. Learn how to conduct thorough research using tools like surveys, social media analytics, and customer feedback to gain valuable insights that will shape your brand strategy.

• Creating Customer Personas:
  Discover how to create detailed customer personas that represent different segments of your target audience. These personas will help guide your branding decisions and ensure your brand identity aligns with your audience's needs and desires.

• Developing Your Unique Brand Voice:
  Your brand voice is more than just the words you use—it's the personality and style behind your communication. We explore how to define a brand voice that aligns with your company’s mission and values, making your brand both authentic and memorable. Learn practical tips for maintaining consistency across all your platforms.

• Examples of Effective Brand Voices:
  We look at how different brands like Mailchimp, Lush Cosmetics, and Patagonia have successfully developed unique brand voices that connect with their audiences. These examples illustrate how a well-defined brand voice can set you apart and build stronger connections with your customers.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand your target audience by conducting research and creating customer personas.

• Develop a brand voice that reflects your company’s mission, values, and the emotions you want to evoke in your audience.

• Maintain consistency in your brand voice across all communication channels to reinforce your brand identity.

Next Episode Preview: In the final part of our 3 part mini series, we’ll be focusing on visual branding, crafting your brand story, and maintaining brand consistency. We’ll cover essential elements like logo design, choosing a colour palette, and communicating your brand story effectively. Don’t miss it!

Listen Now: Tune in to this episode to deepen your understanding of your audience and start crafting a brand voice that truly resonates.

Resources:

• Statista, IBISWorld, and Mintel: for market research reports and industry insights
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com

Instagram: @philippacraddock

In this episode we are exploring a topic that every entrepreneur faces—setbacks and self-doubt, especially when scaling your business. While growth is exciting, it can also bring unexpected challenges that make you question if you're ready for the next step. I’ve absolutely been there, and I know those feelings well.

In this episode, we’ll explore why setbacks are a natural part of the growth process and how they can actually be a catalyst for positive change. We’ll also discuss practical strategies to manage self-doubt and keep moving forward when things get tough.

What We Cover in This Episode:

Why Setbacks Are a Natural Part of Growth:
Setbacks don’t just mean something’s gone wrong—they’re an inevitable part of pushing your business beyond its comfort zone. We’ll talk about why they shouldn’t be viewed as failures but as markers of growth.

Reframing Your Mindset Around Setbacks:
We’ll discuss how changing your perspective can transform setbacks into opportunities for learning and improvement. Instead of viewing them as roadblocks, think of them as stepping stones toward your next breakthrough.

Practical Strategies to Manage Doubt During Growth:
Scaling often brings feelings of uncertainty and comparison. I’ll share tips on how to break your goals into smaller wins, seek the right support, and reflect on your progress to keep doubt from holding you back.

How to Avoid Decisions That Take You in Circles:
Learn how slowing down to reassess can help you avoid choices that cancel out your hard work. We’ll explore why thoughtful, methodical decision-making is crucial for long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Setbacks are part of the growth journey, signalling that you’re expanding your limits.

• Changing your mindset can turn setbacks into valuable learning experiences.

• Managing doubt involves focusing on small wins, seeking support, and reflecting on progress.

• Slowing down to reassess helps ensure decisions align with your long-term vision.

Setbacks and doubt don’t need to be setbacks forever. They can be exactly what you need to pause, reassess, and come back stronger. I hope this episode encourages you to see them as a natural and necessary part of your growth journey.

Contact Us:

• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com 
• Instagram: @philippacraddock

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. Each week, you'll receive practical guidance and thoughtful strategies to help you build a sustainable and profitable creative business.

In today’s episode, we continue our conversation with Nick Jenkins. If you missed last week's episode you can catch up HERE, where we discussed how Nick enabled Moonpig's extraordinary growth, his unique insights on customer service, building and trusting your team, and marketing.

In Part 2, Nick shares his thoughts on ways to help you overcome the discomfort of pitching by focusing on your passion and the problem your product solves. He shares common mistakes to avoid, and we explore the difference between stubbornness and tenacity, emphasising the importance of being open to feedback.

Nick also highlights the need to focus on your core business before diversifying and the value of simplicity in business communications. He talks about the power of organic growth and genuine customer referrals over gimmicky promotions, and hugely importantly, and my biggest takeaway, he shared his personal strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

My favourite part of the conversation and biggest takeaway was when Nick shared his personal strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. His approach to scheduling activities outside of work and avoiding unnecessary commitments is inspiring and practical; I hope you find the conversation helpful too.

• www.philippacraddock.com

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by our first guest, Nick Jenkins. Nick is the founder of Moonpig.com and many of you will know him as a former dragon on the BBC series 'Dragon's Den’.

Through our conversation, Nick shares his journey from his early career in Moscow to becoming one of the UK’s most successful entrepreneurs. We discuss the insights that led to the creation of the revolutionary online retailer that transformed the greeting card industry with its unique personalised cards. There was so much to discuss that we split the conversation into two parts to keep each one bite size and actionable, and so as not to lose any of his insights. In Part 1, we look at Nick’s entrepreneurial beginnings and how Moonpig was born, the criteria he set for his business, and how he enabled its extraordinary growth.

We explore customer service, discussing how technology can help, but every brand definitely needs the founder’s personality and care, and how it can be a real opportunity to develop a truly positive relationship with your customers. We also talk about failures, hiring, building and trusting your team, and marketing. And finally, in this first Part, I ask Nick about any standout moments for him on 'Dragon's Den,' which he shares both happily and amusingly.

I’m excited to share our conversation with you in the audio above and show notes below.

Looking back at a year that didn't go quite as planned? In this episode, we explore why those business 'setbacks' often hold our most valuable insights. Discover how unexpected turns and challenging moments aren't signs of failure, but powerful indicators of your natural path to success.

Key Moments:

• [02:13] The myth of the perfect business path and why it holds us back 
• [06:24] Two common scenarios we label as failures (but shouldn't)
• [12:45] How clarity often emerges from our most challenging moments 
• [18:32] The fascinating pattern in successful business pivots 
• [23:15] Introduction to the "This Is What Works" audit tool 
• [28:40] How to use perceived setbacks to strengthen your natural approach

Notable Quotes:

"Those unexpected turns and challenging moments aren't signs that you're doing something wrong - they're often showing you exactly what you need to know about building a business that truly works for you."

"When we're working in alignment with our natural strengths, everything flows more easily. We spend less time forcing ourselves to follow prescribed paths and more time creating genuine value in ways that feel natural to us."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read This Week's Full Journal Post 

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear what resonated with you from this episode. What unexpected turns in your business have led to greater clarity? Share your thoughts with me on Instagram, either in comments or head into my DMs - I try to read and reply to every message.

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings.

Today, we're exploring a topic that's close to the heart of every dreamer and doer out there: the balance between seeking support and fuelling your inner drive. It's about understanding when to share your dreams and when to guard them, how to embrace encouragement without losing your core motivation, and navigating all the external opinions we encounter and receive, whilst staying anchored in your own belief system.

I would love to start by sharing a thought-provoking question I received in my DMs from one of our podcast listeners, Justine. She writes, "I listened to a podcast by Andrew Huberman, which said that people who share their intentions, like running a marathon or starting a business, and get praised for it, rarely follow through. This sent me into a tailspin. How do we balance seeking guidance, understanding ourselves, controlling our excitement, and managing overwhelm and negativity?"

Let's remember one really important thing: while this phenomenon is real, it's not an absolute.
The impact of sharing goals is nuanced and deeply personal. It's about finding the balance between harnessing support and nurturing your inner feeling of motivation and commitment.

• www.philippacraddock.com

Today, I want to bring those steps to life through this Podcast episode, focussing on the crucial topic of pricing - a concept that, when thoroughly understood will transform your business. Some of the steps are common sense, but others might surprise you.

These nine steps were game changers for me. I believe they'll make a massive difference for you too. And it's not just about numbers. 

Effective pricing isn't simply a matter of maths, mark ups and margins. It's about aligning your prices with the value you provide, meeting your customers' expectations, and ensuring your business thrives - all while promoting a healthy work-life balance. I feel so strongly that a successful business is a combination of doing good, being highly profitable and helping you to live a healthy life/work balance, and I hope these nine steps will help you within your own business.

My mission as I am talking to you, is to empower entrepreneurs like you to build viable and sustainable ventures. So let's begin!

• Confidence with pricing guide
• www.philippacraddock.com

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What I've discovered about pricing your natural expertise is fascinating - here's why the work that feels easiest to you is often your most valuable offering, Listen in and find out how to confidently price these natural skills for what they're truly worth.

Key Moments: 

• [00:00] Introduction: The surprising truth about 'easy' work and value
• [01:40] Real example: The brand identity designer who transformed her pricing mindset
• [02:50] Personal insights from my past premium design projects
• [04:55] Understanding the real value of your natural abilities
• [06:23] How underpricing impacts your entire business
• [07:31] Announcement of upcoming pricing programme
• [09:27] Three powerful steps to recognise your value
• [11:02] Creating your 'Value Bridge' for aligned pricing
• [11:37] Case study: How a bespoke rug designer raised her value and increased her prices
• [16:55] Implementation of timeline and practical next steps to build a sustainable business through value-based pricing
• [19:19] Conclusion and your next steps
• [22:35] Sharing your thoughts is so valuable

Notable Quotes:

"When something flows easily for you, it's usually because you've developed such expertise that it's become second nature. It's not that it's simple - it's that you've mastered it so completely that it feels simple to you."

"Your natural expertise is not just a happy accident - it's the culmination of your experience, insight, and unique way of seeing the world. When you price your work in alignment with this truth, you create space for your best work to flourish."

Resources:

• This Week's Full Journal Post

Share Your Insights:

 I'd love to hear how this episode resonated with you. What abilities have you been undervaluing because they come so naturally? Share your thoughts with me on Instagram - @philippacraddock I'm always here and love to discuss your insights and experiences...

Never Miss an Episode:

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to receive early access to our upcoming pricing programme, plus behind-the-scenes insights and exclusive resources to help you build a sustainable creative business.

What if your most valuable business asset is something you're completely overlooking? In this episode we discover why the skills that often feel effortless to you might actually be your most profitable offering - and why most creative entrepreneurs are significantly undervaluing their natural abilities.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Why your easiest work is often your most valuable and why that matters
• [01:19] The surprising truth about our most valuable skills and why we overlook them
• [04:52] A personal perspective: Learning from past experiences in creative business
• [05:58] Examples: The hidden worth within creative businesses 
• [07:24] The ripple effect: How undervaluing natural expertise impacts your entire business
• [08:57] Recognising when you're overlooking your most valuable skills
• [09:47] Understanding the distinction between 'easy' and 'effortless'
• [10:23] Practical ways to recognise and value your natural expertise
• [12:50] From conscious thought to second nature: Understanding the expertise evolution
• [14:42] Building a business around genuine strengths: The path to authentic growth and profitability

Notable Quotes:

"The skills we've truly mastered, the ones that represent our deepest knowledge, are often the very ones we dismiss as 'just basic' or 'nothing special.'"

"When we consistently undervalue our work, we're not just affecting our own business - we're actually diminishing the perceived value of our entire industry."

"Understanding your natural expertise isn't just about charging more - it's about building a business that truly reflects the real value you're creating for your clients."

Resources:

• Read This Week's Full Journal Post

Share Your Insights:

What natural abilities do you catch yourself taking for granted in your business? I'd love to hear about the skills that you feel are almost too easy to charge for - Share your thoughts with me over on Instagram - @philippacraddock  I'm always here and genuinely love to discuss your insights and experiences... 

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We all live In a very noisy and fast paced world, where understanding your audience is becoming more important than ever. During this episode, I share why and how you should define and understand your audience, ultimately ensuring that your business offerings align with your audience's needs, desires, and lifestyle. 

I'll walk you through a series of practical and straightforward strategies to help you identify and connect with your ideal customer, giving you an insider's look into how having a comprehensive profile of your target market can drastically enhance your brand communication and product or service offerings. 

My goal is to equip you with the necessary tools and insights to make sure you have a loyal and strong brand community, one that resonates with your offerings, understands your brand's ethos, and remains engaged for the long haul, with the focus on increasing your revenue and profit, and ultimately to grow and ensure your business is highly viable.

FREE five step guide to create the foundations of a loyal and strong brand community: click HERE.

In today's episode, I share my thoughts and strategies to help you stay motivated and inspired as you are working towards achieving your goals. We'll be discussing a very relatable topic: what to do on days when you have lost your motivation. We've all been there, those days when we just can't seem to find the drive to get going on our to-do list.

We'll be exploring how to recognise that this is completely normal, I share some of my own recent examples and practical strategies for regaining your motivation and pushing forward, even when it feels a little impossible.

So, join me and learn how to overcome these motivation slumps.

We are a few months into the biggest change we have ever gone through within our business, moving from a flower design led business, to a brand fully focussed on supporting you within your own business, taking our years of experience in running a multi-level, 7 figure global business, and now sharing all our marketing and strategy insights. It’s a huge change, but it has also felt like the most natural change, because it came from a deep desire within me, and it comes with full support from everyone within my team! 

I would love to take you back a bit, to why I wanted to make this change so badly, to share how it has impacted our business in the first few months and our plans for the next year and beyond.

I hope this episode is a huge support for you, if you are looking to make a big change in your life. Perhaps you are currently in a corporate role and longing to set up your own business, to claim back your time and to be more of who you are, to do more of what truly inspires you and makes you happy. Perhaps you are a full-time carer for others, and you are now ready to do something that is truly your own, to claim financial independence and a new identity, that sits true with exactly who you are, to explore and strengthen those skills you believe are deep down. Or perhaps you have a thriving company, but you know in your heart that it is not what you most love doing, and you are desperate for a shift in direction, to move it closer to something you are truly passionate about, or a longing to grow exactly what you are doing right now, further and expand your offerings.

 To wake up in the morning, to feel excited to get started on new projects, willing to take risks, because you know you will pour your heart into it and you will work tirelessly until you make it a success. If you resonate with any of these, this episode is for you!

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I’m thrilled to bring you this conversation with Jamie Waller, an entrepreneur whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Jamie’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and redefining the narrative around dyslexia and adversity. From a tough childhood in East London, facing challenges like dyslexia, ADHD, poverty, and a turbulent home life, Jamie transformed these obstacles into the driving force behind his success. Today, he’s a multi-millionaire entrepreneur who has not only built successful businesses but also significantly changed the industries he’s worked in. 

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Jamie’s Remarkable Journey:
  We explore Jamie’s early life in Bethnal Green, where he grew up in challenging circumstances. Discover how he turned a childhood filled with adversity into a powerful story of success, starting from his first venture—a window cleaning business at 16—to selling a business for over £40 million.

• The Power of Dyslexia as a Strength:
  Jamie shares his unique perspective on dyslexia, which he views not as a disability but as a strength that has significantly contributed to his entrepreneurial success. Learn how embracing your own perceived weaknesses can become a pivotal factor in your growth and achievements.

• Challenging Norms and Creating Your Own Path:
  Jamie discusses how he has consistently challenged norms throughout his career, refusing to be limited by traditional expectations. Whether it’s changing the debt recovery industry or rethinking how we view dyslexia, Jamie’s story is a testament to the power of innovation and determination.

• Reshaping the Narrative Surrounding Dyslexia:
  During the conversation Philippa and Jamie dive into his groundbreaking book, The Dyslexic Edge. in which he and Dr. Helen Taylor, challenge conventional views of dyslexia, presenting it as a powerful asset in entrepreneurship rather than a limitation. Jamie and Dr. Taylor explore how dyslexia can enhance unique thinking and problem-solving abilities, providing actionable insights for both those with and without dyslexia. The book serves not just as a guide but as a call to action for rethinking education and business practices to be more inclusive and forward-thinking.

• Practical Takeaways for Creative Entrepreneurs:
  For those of you facing your own set of challenges, this episode is packed with insights that can help you rethink how you approach your business. We dive into how Jamie’s experiences can inspire you to embrace your strengths, navigate obstacles, and create your own path to success.

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience and Creativity:
  Jamie’s journey highlights the importance of resilience and creativity in overcoming adversity and achieving success.

• Dyslexia as a Strength:
  Rather than viewing dyslexia as a limitation, Jamie demonstrates how it can be a unique strength that fuels innovation and success.

• Challenging Traditional Paths:
  There is no single path to success—sometimes, the most successful paths are the ones we create ourselves.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, achieve a better work-life balance, or simply need a dose of inspiration, Jamie’s story offers valuable lessons for every creative entrepreneur. 

Rescources:

• Jamie Waller’s book: The Dyslexic Edge
• Learn more about Jamie Waller: jamiewaller.co.uk
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com

Since we shared our initial episode on Chat GPT, we’ve been flooded with questions and I would love to take you through all of these, sharing my answers.

The consensus is definitely that many think of ChatGPT as a dirty secret that few want to admit using, it’s almost like we are cheating and trying to pull the wool over our customer’s eyes, but I would love to reframe this idea and instead help you to see ChatGPT as a brilliant time saving and brainstorming partner within your business, one that helps you with the more mundane tasks, helping you to whizz through these and return your focus to nurturing your audience, building and growing your brand and evolving your incredible offerings.

But I have also heard from plenty that ChatGPT, like for me, has been an incredible game changer. It has seriously sped up my copywriting, it has led to far greater levels of creativity, I no longer feel intimated by blank pages when I am thinking of the next topic to write for our Journal posts or Newsletters, and it has seriously helped me to genuinely love writing, something that previously has never been a strength of mine, until now.

 I created a brilliant free guide that accompanies this and the previous episode, which includes everything I discuss in a neat and accessible PDF that you can keep by your side as a quick reference, to help you get the very most from ChatGPT - ChatGPT copywriting  guide

• www.philippacraddock.com

Let’s talk about AI, specifically ChatGPT and specifically from a small business owner's perspective.

For us, AI has been a game-changer. And my goal with this episode is to help you utilise ChatGPT effectively for your own business. I’ll share key insights I've gained whilst using AI effectively and I'll also provide additional tips that could benefit you.

We'll explore how it can be a game-changer for small business owners juggling multiple roles and projects, with the core takeaway being how powerful it is as a brainstorming ally. It's not about replacing your tasks, but progressing your initial ideas.

• ChatGPT copywriting guide
• www.philippacraddock.com

Welcome to the final episode of our three-part series on building a strong brand identity. In this episode, we dive into the steps of bringing your brand to life, focusing on visual branding, your brand story, and maintaining consistency across all platforms. Whether you're launching a new brand or refining an existing one, this episode is filled with actionable insights to help you create a cohesive and memorable brand identity.

What We Cover in This Episode:

Visual Branding Essentials: We discuss the importance of visual branding and how it serves as the cornerstone of your brand identity. Learn how to design a logo that truly represents your brand, choose a colour palette that conveys your brand’s message, and ensure consistency across all platforms and materials. Discover the impact of visual elements on your audience’s perception and how to use them effectively.

A Compelling Brand Story: Your brand story is a powerful tool for building emotional connections with your audience. We explore the key elements of a compelling brand story, including your brand’s origin, mission, values, and vision. Learn how to communicate your story across various channels, from your website to social media, to create a consistent and engaging narrative that resonates with your customers.

Implementing and Maintaining Brand Consistency: Consistency is key to building trust and recognition. We provide practical tips for launching your new brand identity, ensuring uniformity across all touchpoints, and regularly reviewing and updating your brand to stay relevant. Understand how to develop a brand style guide and the importance of maintaining a cohesive brand presence in every customer interaction.

Key Takeaways:

• Visual branding is crucial for creating a memorable and cohesive brand identity.

• A well-crafted brand story builds emotional connections and strengthens customer loyalty.

• Consistency across all platforms and materials reinforces your brand identity and builds trust.

Remember, building a strong brand identity is an ongoing process that requires attention to detail and consistency. I’m excited to see how you apply these insights to your own brand!

Resources:

Instagram: @philippacraddock

• Colour Palettes: Adobe Color, Coolors, Canva's Color Palette Generator, Paletton, and Color Hunt 
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com 
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com

Today we are looking at the power of a well-designed survey—one that will give you clear insight into the audience you are looking to support. 

This is not just about gathering data; it is about opening up a conversation with your audience, to understand how you can add more value and how you can help them succeed. 

Understanding exactly what your audience needs from you is crucial, no matter what your business offers. Whether you're changing lives with transformative offerings or brightening days with entertainment or something feel good, at the heart of it, you're solving a problem or fulfilling a need. This isn't just about improving customer satisfaction; it's about ensuring your offerings resonate deeply and effectively with your target audience.

A well-crafted survey opens the door to this understanding by providing direct insights into the challenges, desires, and priorities of your audience. By asking the right questions, you not only uncover how to enhance your current offerings but also how to innovate or introduce new solutions that align perfectly with your audience's expectations.

Essentially, it bridges the gap between guessing and knowing, allowing you to tailor your brand and offerings to become the key solution provider in your niche. This alignment is what sets successful businesses apart, turning casual customers into loyal fans and advocates.

Remember, every piece of feedback is an opportunity to improve, to innovate, and to better align with your customers' needs and expectations. It’s this cycle of listening, adapting, and improving that can set your business apart in a crowded market.

• Survey Analysis guide: Sorry this is no longer available, however our Journal page has plenty of other resources ready and waiting for you to feast on!

Sometimes your biggest achievements can guide you in very unexpected directions. When I found myself at what many considered to be the pinnacle of my industry, I learned that true success often looks remarkably different than we imagine. In this episode, I share how my journey of creating flowers for Harry and Meghan's wedding led to an unexpected revelation about building a sustainable business - and why your most natural path to success might not be the one you're currently pursuing.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Introducing our most read journal post: How building a luxury brand from my kitchen table challenged industry norms
• [01:33] Creating royal wedding flowers: The unexpected lessons about sustainable business growth
• [02:11] The journey before the royal wedding: Building relationships with prestigious brands
• [03:15] The reason for sharing this episode: To show you that our biggest achievements often teach us something totally different from what we expect. 
• [04:45] The unexpected advantage: How starting without industry knowledge made for a unique approach
• [06:58] Trusting my own intuition: The moment everything changed in my business
• [10:02] Behind the royal wedding designs: What truly mattered beyond the media spotlight
• [12:35] The pivotal moment: When florists sought business guidance over design expertise
• [13:44] Natural business evolution: Building around your core strengths
• [16:27]  Practical steps to align your business with your natural expertise

Notable Quotes:

"Sometimes not knowing the 'right' way to do things means you find your own way, one that actually works out better for you." 

"Success isn't about getting everything right from the start - it's about learning from what goes wrong and staying true to what you do best."

"We might be chasing one type of success while our natural talents are actually pulling us in a different, often more aligned direction."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: This Week's Full Journal Post
• Episode 058: How to Work with Department Stores with Nic Waller
• Email: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

Has your vision of success evolved as your business has grown? I'd love to hear your thoughts over on Instagram about how your own definition of success might be shifting...

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Subscribe to our newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and first access to new offerings. Each week, I share additional thoughts and practical tips that don't make it into the podcast.

This conversation has the potential to completely transform how you run your creative business. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by client demands, struggled to take proper breaks, or found yourself responding to emails at all hours, this episode will show you how to create the space you need to do your best work, while actually strengthening your client relationships. And all done in a very straightforward and completely positive way.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Welcome and introduction to professional boundaries in creative business
• [03:13] The Costa Rica story - learning about boundaries the hard way
• [06:57] Why boundaries are particularly challenging in creative businesses
• [09:42] The hidden costs of poor boundaries - from creative exhaustion to burnout
• [12:08] Essential areas for setting boundaries: time, project scope, communication, financial
• [15:41] How to implement boundaries while maintaining positive client relationships
• [18:53] Practical strategies for communicating boundaries effectively
• [21:42] Using AI to handle boundary-related client communications
• [22:43] Step-by-step guide to implementing your first boundary
• [24:50] Signs that your boundaries are working and how to adjust them

Notable Quotes:

"When we don't have clear boundaries, we're actually doing our clients a disservice. They don't get our best work, they don't get our full creative energy, and they don't get the clear, professional relationship they deserve."

"What's fascinating is that if I had simply set clear boundaries - an out-of-office message, a system for handling opportunities while I was away - everything would have been fine. The world wouldn't have stopped."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read this week's full journal post 
• Episode link: 074 Using AI to Make Customer Service More Personal
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: hello@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear where you are right now with boundaries in your business. Are you feeling frustrated, relieved, or excited about implementing changes? Share your thoughts with me on Instagram - I read every message and would love to hear your perspective.

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. Each week, I share additional thoughts and practical tips that complement the podcast episodes.

Today's topic might seem a little small, but it has the potential to be huge and it comes from one of the biggest mistakes I see small business owners make, the exact same mistake I was making and when I realised it, it was a proper a-ha moment. I am really excited to share it with you, as it’s something you can apply pretty much straightaway … it’s all about the transformative power of testimonials and I hope, I sincerely hope, that by the end of this episode, you’ll think completely differently about the way you use testimonials to promote your business and your incredible shout-worthy offerings.

 I’m excited to dive into why testimonials are a cornerstone of trust, how to gather them in a way that highlights your clients' stories, and how to share these in a manner that not only elevates your brand but also deeply connects with your community.

• www.philippacraddock.com

Today I’m going to share a recent challenge we faced – a mishap that occurred just a while ago. We learned some valuable lessons about the importance of resilience and agility in content creation. Whether like us you create weekly content, you are a business owner, or just someone who appreciates a look behind the scenes, I hope you’ll find this story hugely valuable....

To paint the picture, last Thursday, I woke up early, at about 5.30. I was the first up and it was still very dark outside. I sat in the kitchen, and I updated the website to add the links to our latest weekly podcast episode. It felt good to have that done early, before our newsletter went out, which is always scheduled for Thursdays at about 6.30am. 

Just after 8am, I received a WhatsApp message from a friend, which read “Listening to your podcast. Might you have uploaded a draft?”, I asked what she meant and then I listened to the morning’s podcast episode … and remember this is a globally listened to podcast of thousands each week … and it was clear, the original, unedited version had accidently been uploaded …

I hope you enjoy hearing how we failed fast and pivoted very quickly and I hope our journey and the ten steps we took to pivot help you hugely going forwards. 

• www.philippacraddock.com

Struggling with that constant urge to compare yourself to others in your industry? You’re not alone, that nagging sense of comparison doesn't just affect how you feel, it can fundamentally limit what you build. In this episode we explore why comparison is so persistent for creative entrepreneurs and reveal the subtle mindset shift to make it finally fade away. Discover how leading with your natural strengths, instead of chasing industry “shoulds,” can transform your business from the inside out. I share real stories from you, listeners who’ve broken free from the pressure to fit in, found their unique superpowers, and have started building businesses that feel energising, authentic, and impossible to replicate.

Key Moments:

• [02:13] The powerful responses from creative entrepreneurs who are embracing their unique strengths
• [04:32] Why so many creative entrepreneurs feel the weight of comparison and what's actually happening
• [06:28] How social media and standardised business advice create constant comparison
• [08:01] The additional ‘complication’ as a creative
• [10:24] The transformative power of leading with your exceptional strengths 
• [12:19] How focusing on your natural abilities creates distinctive positioning
• [13:34] The shift from convincing clients to connecting with the right ones 
• [16:23] Creating your own momentum and rhythm in business 
• [19:13] How building from strengths changes your relationship with challenges
• [22:39] Practical steps to move from comparison to confidence 
• [23:28] The importance of aligning strengths with what your audience values 
• [27:45] The broader movement toward more aligned ways of building creative businesses

Notable Quotes:

"When we're clear about our exceptional strengths, we naturally create more distinctive offerings. Instead of looking similar to everyone else in our field, we begin to stand out, not through gimmicks or clever marketing, but through the genuine uniqueness of what we offer."

"Comparison doesn't just fade when we lead with our strengths, it becomes largely irrelevant. Because when you're building something that's genuinely yours, something rooted in your exceptional strengths, you're no longer on the same path as everyone else. You're creating your own."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: This Week's Full Journal Post
• Episode:  082. Finding Your Exceptional Strength: The Key To An Unstoppable Creative Business
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

What strengths do you find yourself naturally using in your business, even when you don't recognise them as special? I'd love to hear how you're beginning to see your natural abilities in a new light. Send me a message on Instagram I personally read and reply to every DM, many of our conversations shape future episodes.

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Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, early access to new resources, and weekly guidance on building a business that feels genuinely yours. You'll be the first to know about new offerings and receive exclusive content not shared anywhere else.

How to pursue what you love without being derailed.

So often, we get caught up in the motions, following paths that might not truly resonate with who we are or what we desire most deeply.

In this episode we'll explore how to identify whether you’re on the path that’s right for you, how to realign if you’re not, and how to protect what you most would love to achieve from anything—or anyone—that might try to derail you.

We’re looking at why it’s so important to create your own direction and how doing so can prevent any kind of regrets. Whether you're feeling uncertain about your current business, thinking about a shift, or just need a little inspiration to reaffirm you're on the right track, this episode is for you.

• www.philippacraddock.com

I was recently asked a brilliant question, how do you know if your idea for a business will thrive in reality? So, in this episode, we’re exploring exactly that. What makes an idea viable and how you can assess its potential to become a successful enterprise. I’ll discuss the importance of market demand, the cost of bringing your idea to life, and the simplicity of the business model—essential elements that can make or break your entrepreneurial plans.

So whether you’re sketching ideas on a napkin, you've been nurturing a passion project on the side or you are looking to find ways to evolve your business, this episode is designed to give you insights and tools to evaluate and refine your concepts into business plans that succeed.

• www.philippacraddock.com

The Power of Collaboration in Creative Business

Welcome to this week’s episode, where we’re diving into a topic that has been a true game-changer for me—collaboration. Working with others has not only opened doors to incredible opportunities but has also been key to growing my creative business in ways I couldn’t have imagined. In this episode, I’m sharing personal stories from my own collaborations, along with practical tips on how you can make partnerships work for your business.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The Benefits of Collaboration: We explore why collaboration is so much more than just working together. It’s about combining different strengths and perspectives to create something bigger than what you could achieve alone. I share stories from my own experience, including how teaming up with the V&A and Selfridges transformed my brand.

• Finding the Right Partners: Not every partnership is the right one. I’ll explain how to identify collaborators who align with your values and vision, and how those are the partnerships that lead to the most impactful results.

• Managing Joint Projects: Collaborations can be tricky, so we’re discussing how to keep communication clear, define roles, and handle any challenges along the way to ensure a smooth partnership.

• Leveraging Collaboration for Growth: Once a collaboration is complete, there’s so much more you can do. I’ll share tips on how to leverage successful partnerships for even more opportunities and long-term growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Collaborating can open up new opportunities and bring fresh perspectives to your business.

• Finding partners who align with your values and vision is key to a successful collaboration.

• Clear communication and well-defined roles are crucial for managing joint projects.

• Successful collaborations can lead to future partnerships and continued growth.

Collaboration has been a major driver in my business, and I hope this episode inspires you to explore how working with others can unlock new possibilities for your own journey.

Resources:

• Episode: 044. Is It Possible To Balance Business And Life
• Episode: 042. Why Smart Goals Aren't Enough
• Episode: 033. Why Is Knowing Your Audience So Important
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com 
• Instagram: @philippacraddock

What if everything you've been told about Instagram strategy for the past year is actually wrong? In this episode, I share surprising new research that completely contradicts the "Reels and video first" approach many of us feel we should be focussed on. The data reveals a dramatic shift in what's now actually driving reach and engagement for creative businesses in 2025 - and it's not what most experts have been advising. This shift will come as a welcome relief to many creative entrepreneurs who've been struggling with constant video creation despite it not feeling natural to their business. If you've been feeling overwhelmed by making video content to feed the instgram algorithm, these evidence-based findings will help you develop a far more natural, sustainable and ultimately more enjoyable approach. I also share how niche focus, valuable content, and strategic calls to action can save you hours while improving your results... A must-hear podcast for creatives in 2025.

Key Moments:

• [04:16] The truth about Instagram's latest algorithm shift: Why everything you thought you knew about content performance is changing dramatically in 2025.
• [07:11] The secret to captivating your audience: How a recently expanded Instagram feature can transform your storytelling and boost engagement naturally.
• [13:38] Finding your niche focus: Discover how narrowing your target audience can speed up your account growth, regardless of your current follower numbers.
• [17:17] Cracking the content code: The "formula approach" used by top-performing accounts to create consistent engagement without constant reinvention.
• [21:37] How to conduct a quick content audit: Uncover what's truly working for your Instagram account and what may need a refresh.
• [23:15] Hook your audience from the start: Crafting compelling content that captures attention immediately and encourages meaningful interaction.
• [26:03] The power of small changes: How making subtle, sustainable adjustments to your Instagram strategy can lead to transformative results over time.

Notable Quotes:

"The platform seems to be rewarding different types of content again, which excitingly for us creatives, means we can focus more on the formats that align with our natural strengths and creative processes."

"Narrowing your focus always expands your impact. It's about finding a good balance between where you can provide exceptional value to a specific audience rather than general content."

Resources:

• Read: This Week's Journal Post
• Read: Metricool's 2024 Social Media Report
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear what's currently working for you on instagram. Has your experience matched what the data is showing? Please do send me a DM on Instagram - however old this episode is, I genuinely read every message and am curious about your experiences.

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, early access to new episodes, and exclusive resources to help you grow your creative business with less effort and more joy!

In this episode we tackle the hidden saboteurs of creative success: perfectionism, fear of judgment, and the nagging feeling your work isn't interesting enough. Inspired by conversations and DMs with so many of you, we explore how these barriers often masquerade as professionalism, preventing us from sharing the "ordinary" aspects of our creative process that our audience truly craves. What seems mundane to many of us holds truely impactful and unique value for others, showcasing our expertise and importantly justifying our pricing. I share practical tips on how to reframe your understanding of "professional," prioritise authenticity, and share your journey (imperfections and all!) to connect with your audience and unlock genuine business growth. It's time to stop striving for perfect and start embracing your authentic creative self!

Key Moments:

• [01:45] The unexpected insights from all the received messages to episode 081 about Instagram
• [03:24] The three common barriers consistently holding creative entrepreneurs back
• [05:10] How perfectionism masquerades as professional standards and attention to detail
• [06:39] My personal experience with podcast creation and moving towards YouTube
• [10:05] The hidden costs of perfectionism in your business beyond just social media
• [16:51] Research on authenticity and why 90% of consumers prioritise it when choosing brands
• [18:45] Why what seems ordinary to you is often fascinating to others
• [19:16] The "curse of knowledge" and how it affects our perception of our own expertise
• [23:27] Reframing what "professional" really means beyond perfection
• [27:18] Practical questions to ask instead of "Is this perfect enough?"
• [28:11] Using Instagram carousels to reduce the pressure of perfection
• [31:32] Strategies for sharing authentically even when feeling vulnerable
• [34:49] How showing up more authentically online translates to other areas of your business
• [36:59] Finding approaches that align with how you naturally work and communicate

Notable Quotes:

"The gap between what we're willing to share and what our audience actually wants to see – that's where these inner barriers are costing us the most."

"When we only share the most polished, perfect versions of our creative process, we're reinforcing to ourselves that only certain parts of our work and story are valuable."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: This Week's Journal Post 
• Read: Metricool's 2024 Social Media Report
• Ref: Stackla survey on consumer authenticity preferences
• Episode 081: What's Actually Working on Instagram in 2025
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear what's been holding you back from sharing more behind the scenes content, not just on Instagram but in your business as a whole. Share your thoughts with me over on Instagram – however old this episode, I read every message and love to continue conversations as many of these form the basis of new content...

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, be the first to know about new offerings, receive exclusive resources, and join a community of creative entrepreneurs building sustainable, profitable businesses without the burnout.

Welcome to 'Passion To Profit', a leading business podcast for creative entrepreneurs, professional service providers, and business owners ready to turn their expertise into a thriving, profitable business.

I'm Philippa Craddock, and I believe the most successful businesses are built on recognising and embracing what you’re naturally brilliant at. I grew my own design business from our family kitchen table to a seven-figure global brand, working with clients like Alexander McQueen, Vogue, and The British Royal Family. A few years ago, I shifted my focus to helping creative business owners build sustainable businesses that energise rather than exhaust them.

Each week, I share practical, implementable strategies to help you grow your creative business with confidence. From pricing your offerings and marketing in a way that feels natural and effective to staying motivated and strengthening your mindset, this podcast is here to help you charge what you're worth and build a business that reflects your unique strengths. If you're juggling multiple priorities, working harder without earning more, or simply ready to create a business that truly values your time and expertise - you’re in the right place!

Join me weekly for jargon-free, straightforward insights on building professional expertise, strategic growth, and measured progress. We’ll focus on clear, actionable steps that make a real difference - transforming your creative business into a profitable, sustainable success.

Let’s discover what’s possible when you build your business around your true strengths and charge properly for it. Welcome to Passion to Profit!

What if the solution to your business systems isn't about completely starting over, but rather about thoughtfully evolving what's already working? In this episode, I share fascinating insights about how creative entrepreneurs can identify and enhance their natural organizational patterns, rather than forcing themselves into systems that don't align with their strengths.

Key Moments:

Notable Quotes:

"When we're naturally good at something, we develop these wonderfully intuitive ways of working. They serve us perfectly when we start out. But then our business grows, opportunities expand, and suddenly these same approaches that helped us succeed start feeling like they're holding us back."

"The best systems will always support your natural way of working rather than forcing you to change it completely."

Resources:

• This Week's Full Journal Post

Share Your Insights:

 I'd love to hear how this episode resonated with you. What abilities have you been undervaluing because they come so naturally? Why not pop over onto Instagram - @philippacraddock for a chat, I'm always here and love to discuss your insights and experiences...

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You know when a slightly negative message from a customer lands in your inbox and your heart sinks a little - Today we're exploring exactly how to handle those tricky communications with grace, and perhaps even find something valuable in them along the way. What I've discovered about handling unexpected client messages is fascinating - particularly how even the most experienced creative entrepreneurs can feel that initial sting, and why that sensitivity might actually be one of our greatest strengths...

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Introduction: Receiving negative messages
•  [02:58] How digital communication changes the way we interpret messages
•  [04:59] How we can handle these messages with grace, and what they can teach us about ourselves and how we run our businesses
• [05:54] Analysing message content and how we can perceive them
•  [11:47] Why developing resilience doesn't mean becoming immune to feedback
•  [13:00] Strategies and practical steps to overcome difficult communications 
• [16:34] Understanding how we can utilise these messages to actually improve our businesses
• [19:04] Summary as Philippa reflects back on the original message she was sent that inspired the podcast episode.

Notable Quotes:

"Those challenging messages, while never enjoyable, can actually teach us something valuable. They can help us strengthen our businesses, refine our communications, and develop a more resilient approach."

"The very fact that these messages affect you shows just how much you care about what you do. That's not a weakness to overcome - it's a strength to work with."

Resources:

• Read This Week's Full Journal Post
• www.philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear about a time when you transformed a challenging communication into an opportunity for growth. Pop over and share your thoughts with me over on Instagram - @philippacraddock I'm always here and love to discuss your insights and experiences... 

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. Each week, you'll receive practical guidance and thoughtful strategies to help you build a sustainable and profitable creative business.

Welcome to this episode, where we’re looking into a challenge that so many creative business owners face—balancing content creation with CEO-level responsibilities. If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin by wearing all the hats in your business, this episode is for you.

We’ll explore how to manage the demands of content creation, which is essential for your marketing and brand visibility, while also focusing on those big-picture CEO tasks that drive your business forward. It’s all about finding a balance that allows you to stay creative and strategic without burning out.

What We Cover in This Episode:

What Content Creation Really Is: Content creation goes beyond social media. From blog posts and newsletters to podcasts and PR, your content forms the backbone of your marketing strategy. We’ll talk about how each touchpoint with your audience contributes to your brand and business growth.

Balancing Content Creation and CEO Responsibilities: As a business owner, you’re often managing multiple roles—content creator, marketer, CEO, and more. We’ll explore how to find the right balance so that you can stay consistent with content creation while also making time for the strategic tasks that ensure long-term growth.

Time Management and Prioritisation: With so much to do, prioritising your tasks is key. We’ll discuss time-blocking, batching content, and delegation—practical tools to help you manage your workload without feeling overwhelmed.

Embracing Systems and Automation: Systems and automation can free up your time and energy. We’ll cover how to create a content system that works for your business, and explore automation tools for scheduling and streamlining your content creation.

Shifting Your Mindset from Creativity to CEO: Switching between creative tasks and CEO-level responsibilities requires a shift in mindset. We’ll discuss how to make this transition smoothly, so you can be both the visionary and the hands-on creative in your business.

Key Takeaways:

• Content creation is essential for business growth, but it needs to be balanced with strategic CEO responsibilities.

• Time management techniques like batching, delegation, and automation can help streamline your workload.

• Shifting between creative and CEO roles requires a change in mindset, but both are crucial to the long-term success of your business.

• Building a sustainable content system allows you to stay consistent without burning out.

Finding the balance between content creation and CEO tasks is key to building a successful, sustainable business. I hope this episode gives you practical tips and encouragement to manage both roles with confidence.

Contact Us:

• Instagram: @philippacraddock

• Email: news@philippacraddock.com 

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. Each week, you'll receive practical guidance and thoughtful strategies to help you build a sustainable and profitable creative business.

I recently shared a journal post on the essential skills to start and grow your business, focussing on the importance of mindset and attitude, and today, I wanted to bring this to the Podcast and share a little more.

I remember before I started my business, wondering what the key skills that every successful entrepreneur had and wondering if they were skills that I could harness and learn.

Over the years, I began to realise that it’s not necessarily down to specific experience or knowledge, it’s definitely not something that you learn in traditional courses at school or indeed university, and to some extent even at business school, instead it’s so much more about mindset and attitude. I have heard so many people say, a successful business is 10% talent and 90% attitude, and to some extent I agree.

So, today, I will be sharing with you, the essential, foundational skills that I feel are required for all business founders, leading up to and during the start-up days and for growth, with a special focus on mindset and attitude, and their indispensable role in entrepreneurial success.

It’s important to note, that everyone has the potential and can learn these skills to start and grow their own business, and this episode is for you, whether you have a glimmer of a business idea or you have a fully-fledged business and would love to find ways to grow and expand, both personally and for your business.

Within the podcast I promised that I would share the following links:

• To contact me on Instagram @PhilippaCraddock, click HERE.
•  Breathwork coach - James Dowler: find him HERE 
• Podcast episode 049. THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF BREATHWORK WITH JAMES DOWLER

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In this special milestone episode, we’re celebrating our 50th podcast episode by revisiting the top five most downloaded episodes that have resonated deeply with you, our listeners. We’ll dive into key insights and practical strategies from each landmark episode to help you continue thriving in your creative business. Here’s what we cover:

Introduction

• Celebrating our 50th podcast episode.
• Heartfelt thanks to our listeners for their continuous support.
• A sneak peek at what’s in store for this special episode.

Confidence with Pricing

• Episode 005: Confidence with Pricing.
• Essential steps to feel confident about pricing your offerings.
• Understanding the crucial difference between price and value.
• Why you should avoid comparing your prices with competitors.
• Aligning your prices with the value you provide.
• Tips for calculating profit and developing a unique pricing strategy.

Defining Your Path

• Episode 037: Defining Your Path - How to pursue what you love without being derailed.
• The importance of aligning your life and work with your true vision.
• Overcoming societal expectations and external opinions that hold you back.
• Steps to create your own destiny and remain adaptable in your journey.
• Why stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for growth.

My Personal Guide to Instagram

• Episode 025: My Personal Guide to Instagram.
• The power of authenticity and vulnerability in your Instagram journey.
• Building meaningful relationships and engaging with your audience.
• Effective strategies for managing Instagram without feeling overwhelmed.
• Tips for content planning and maintaining consistency.
• Integrating Instagram as part of a broader marketing strategy.

How to Achieve Your Goals

• Episode 003: How to Achieve Your Goals.
• The importance of understanding the purpose behind your goals for sustained motivation.
• Breaking down your goals into manageable, actionable steps.
• Why consistency and a growth mindset are key to success.
• The value of seeking support and measuring progress for accountability.

Balancing Creativity with Business

• Episode 001: Balancing Creativity with Business.
• Setting clear goals and staying organized to manage both creativity and business growth.
• The power of collaboration and continuous learning in a creative business.
• Staying true to your artistic vision while achieving business success.
• Inspiring examples from successful brands that balance creativity and business.

Resources:

• Pricing Guide: Price with Confidence
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Instagram: @philippacraddock

Learn practical techniques you can implement right away to take Better Control Of Your Time. In this episode we explore how mastering time management can make a significant difference in achieving your business goals efficiently and effectively.

Introduction

• The value of time as a resource.

• A personal story of balancing new motherhood with starting a business.

• How effective time management helped achieve business success.

These, along with Time management strategies for entrepreneurs,

Understanding Time Management

• Definition and importance of time management.

• Benefits of effective time management for creative entrepreneurs.

• The impact of poor time management on business and personal well-being.

Practical Tools and Techniques

• Introduction to the Eisenhower Matrix for task prioritisation.

• Steps to categorise tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix.

• Overview of productivity tools: Trello, Asana, and Todoist.

• Methods for creating effective daily and weekly schedules.

• Continuous improvement and flexibility in time management.

Creating a Personalized Time Management Plan

• The importance of frequent review and adjustment of your plan.

• Self-assessment and identifying areas for improvement.

• Staying open to new techniques and tools for better time management.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to implement a robust time management strategy.

• Tips for maintaining a balance between work and personal life.

• Invitation to share your experiences and questions.

• Email: hello@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.phiippacraddock.com

I’m very excited about today’s topic, it’s something that means a huge amount to me and is massive in today’s world of business, yet it’s one that’s often misunderstood.

We’re looking at the strength of vulnerability and the power of distinction.

Embrace Vulnerability

When we embrace vulnerability, we create a culture of trust and innovation. We encourage risk-taking and foster true collaboration. We build businesses that resonate deeply with our customers because they can see the human heart behind the brand.

In the world of business, vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, something to be concealed behind a facade of unshakeable confidence and stoic professionalism. But what if I told you that the very heart of innovation, connection, and leadership lies in our willingness to be vulnerable?

Distinction - Become the Purple Cow

Let’s paint a picture. Imagine you’re driving through the countryside, and all you see are fields of very similar looking cows. And then suddenly, there’s a purple cow. Yes, a purple cow! It’s so unexpected, so different, that you can’t help but stop and take notice. This is the essence of Seth Godin’s 'Purple Cow' — the idea that being remarkable is no longer an option for your brand; it’s a necessity.

In today’s saturated market, being just another face in the crowd isn’t going to cut it. It’s the necessity of being distinct that sets successful businesses apart.

If you would love your business to be not only seen but also felt and remembered, then press play and let’s look at this in detail.

• www.philippacraddock.com
• Book ref: Seth Godin’s 'Purple Cow'

One of the questions I’m frequently asked, is how I manage Instagram for my business, so that’s exactly what we’re looking at in this episode.

Instagram definitely creates polar views, some love it, others loathe it and perhaps similarly to me, you sit somewhere in between. I think though wherever you sit, we can all recognise the feeling of slight overwhelm that can come with managing a business Instagram account.

I need to be absolute upfront and first and foremost say that I am not an Instagram expert, I’m far from it, but I do have a straightforward strategy that I use that works really well, for my business, without needing endless hours or resources, and working more as an additional tool, rather than a core focus, and I would love to share them with you today.

• How I manage Instagram for my business: Journal
• www.philippacradddock.com

As we are in the first month of the year, this is often the time when we hear the collective chorus of resolutions, when hope is fresh and aspirations are sky high. It’s that magical moment we all know so well, when we tell ourselves, “This year will be different.”

But let’s be honest—how often have these words truly heralded transformation? For many of us, this declaration is the first step on a familiar path. We start with a vision brimming with potential, only for the gritty realities of life to cloud that clarity. The job that demands too much, the unforeseen crises that drain our energy, the everyday tasks that nibble away at our time—these are the thieves of our grand plans.

But here’s the burning question, the one that this episode is devoted to unravelling: How do we break free from this cycle? How do we move beyond the wishful thinking of “this year will be different” to actually living it out? What does it truly take to embody the change we seek and turn it into our reality?

In today’s episode we’re exploring consistency—the quiet power behind any lasting change.

We’ll look at how to start small, stay steady, and rise above the noise of life. Because the secret to a transformative year, or indeed a transformative life, isn't in grand gestures but in the daily choices that become our stepping stones to greatness.

So, let’s get stuck into the art of consistent action and the science of turning 'New Year's resolution' from a cliché into a concrete reality.

Over the past six months, we've conducted extensive research, uniquely tailored to the creative industry, gathering insights from hundreds of small business owners who, like you, are passionate about turning their creative visions into thriving businesses.

In this episode, I’ll be sharing the findings of this research with you, revealing the top challenges and the underlying factors that can either stall or propel a creative business forward. Understanding these challenges is crucial for anyone looking to break through barriers and fully realise their potential in the world of creative entrepreneurship.

So, whether you’re just sketching out your ideas or already managing a growing venture, this episode will provide you with valuable perspectives and tools to help you get through the complexities and move your business towards greater success.

I’m excited to look at what holds us back, how we can thrive in all our creative markets and transform challenges into stepping stones for growth.

Resources:

• Top 5 Factors that impact creative business research
• Find Philippa on Substack
• www.philippacraddock.com

Have you ever noticed how bigger projects seem to take longer than they should? Those moments when you find yourself doing anything but the main task at hand? Research shows it takes our brain 23 minutes to fully refocus after each and every interruption. Through personal experience and scientific insights, this episode explores how creating space from distractions, during focused project work can help you complete substantial projects more efficiently .

Key Moments:

• [00:00] A More Relaxed Episode - Designed to get you thinking about how you operate when working on larger focused projects
• [01:33] When something needed to change - How building my new website revealed the need for new work strategies
• [03:27] How we approach our relationship with digital tools
• [05:55] Information Overload - What our minds have to cope with on a daily basis
• [06:48] What the research says - It takes 23-minutes to refocus every time we are distracted 
• [10:30] Being Realistic - Creating the right environment for completing bigger pieces of work
• [12:19] Learning to recognise digital distraction 
• [14:00] Managing Strategies - To create boundaries that stick
• [15:38] Study - Computors In Human Behaviour - The mear presence of a smart phone can...
• [17:20] Learning from how our children approach device boundaries
• [18:26] What works best for you - Building sustainable habits without relying on willpower

Notable Quotes:

"Research has found that just having our phones in the same room - even when we're not using them - can reduce our brain power and ability to focus, even if we're actively trying to ignore them."

"We need moments of what might feel like boredom almost, those times when our minds can wander and our creativity can breathe."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read: This Week's Full Journal Post
• Study Report: "Computers in Human Behavior" - Impact of smartphone presence
• Study Report: Professor Gloria Mark's research on task-switching
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: news@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

What's your biggest challenge when tackling larger projects?  I would genuinely love to hear from you on Instagram - to understand what's working for you right now.

Subscribe to our newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. Each week, you'll receive carefully curated content designed to help you build a stronger, more sustainable business.

Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re taking a bit of a different path. We are talking about what I would be doing inside my business, if I was to start all over again. 

I share strategies that you can apply straightaway. I’ll be talking about a list of crucial steps, some I managed to implement relatively quickly into my business, and some that took me several years to figure out. It has taken me years to get to where I am today, and I know that you can do it far quicker than me, and I hope these steps really help you to do exactly that.

I hope these strategies help you. Whether you're right at the start of your business idea or you would just love a fresh boost, these tips I hope will give you a clear focus. And if you are thinking you might be too late to apply any of these ideas, don’t worry. It’s never too late to adjust your approach, pick up new skills, or shift your focus. Honestly, every single day is a chance to refine your business and edge closer to what you really want from it.

• www.philippacraddock.com

Think for a moment... What is your greatest strength as a creative entrepreneur?
So many creative business owners unknowingly undervalue their natural abilities, often focusing instead on areas that overwhelm and drain them. However when you lean into what truly sets you apart, everything can shift - your confidence, your pricing, and your ability to attract the right clients. In this episode, I’ll help you identify your personal strengths, many of which hide in plain sight and share stories of creatives who’ve transformed their businesses by embracing what they do best. If you've ever felt stuck, wished you could charge more but didn’t feel you could justify it, or you’re just tired of constantly pushing against the tide, this episode will give you a whole new perspective.

Key Moments:

• [02:09] The mission behind my website strap-line "Build an exceptional creative business by doing what you do best"
• [03:53] Why most creative businesses aren't fully aligned with their genuine strengths
• [06:19] My experience rising to the top of my industry while being "pretty normal"
• [09:43] The textile artist who transformed her business by focusing on her natural strengths
• [11:43] How a brand designer overcame pricing difficulties by recognising her unique abilities
• [13:50] Our family's story of helping our daughter discover confidence through natural strengths
• [21:00] The transformative pattern seen in businesses built around exceptional strengths
• [31:37] Why we often overlook our most valuable natural abilities
• [36:25] How small shifts toward alignment can create unstoppable momentum

Notable Quotes:

"Success comes more easily when you build around what already comes naturally to you. It's not about forcing yourself to develop in areas where you're weak. It's about creating a business structure that amplifies what you're already naturally brilliant at."

"The things that come most naturally to us often feel too basic to value. This is one of the great paradoxes of exceptional strength – the easier something is for you, the more likely you are to dismiss its significance."

Resources Mentioned:

• Read :This Week's Journal Post
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com
• Email: News@philippacraddock.com

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to hear what insights this episode has sparked about your natural abilities. Please message me on Instagram - I genuinely read every response, and many of your comments and our subsequant conversations shape future episodes.

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for exclusive insights, early access to new offerings, and thoughtful approaches to building your creative business. Each week, I share practical ideas that help you recognise your expertise and build sustainable success.

Today we dive deeper into the subject of achieving your goals and, more importantly, how to stop worrying about what other people think.

In our previous episode, we discussed the importance of setting and working towards your goals. But what happens when the opinions of others start to creep in and affect your progress?

In this episode, we'll discuss why it's crucial to focus on your own vision and aspirations, share personal stories, and provide six practical steps to help you stay on track and overcome the fear of other people's judgments. 

 So, let's dive right in and learn how to build that resilience and confidence needed to make your dreams a reality.

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Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings.

Might you unknowingly be pushing away your ideal customers? In this episode, we explore the subtle shifts in your messaging that can transform who you work with. What I've discovered will fascinate you - being more selective with your client base actually leads to greater success, and the customers who value you most are often easier to find than you think. We uncover practical ways to attract the right clients, create clearer boundaries, and build a business that naturally draws in those who appreciate your expertise the most.

Key Moments:

• [00:00] Introduction: Are you working with clients who really value what you do?
• [02:30] How to identify what truly matters in your client relationships
• [04:00] Philippa reflects on her own personal journey - Getting specific about how she has worked with her clients, mistakes she has made and how things have evolved
• [05:57] 3 Practical steps to attract clients who value your expertise -When you work with the 'right people' they become your biggest supporters
• [13:46] The one action to take today to attract better clients
• [14:52] Why limiting your client pool actually grows your business

Notable Quotes:

 "Every time you say yes to a client who isn't quite right, you're potentially saying no to one who would be perfect for your business."

"Being specific about who you want to work with isn't limiting - it's actually the foundation of building a business you'll really enjoy running."

Resources:

• Read This Week's Full Journal Post

Share Your Insights:

I'd love to know - what qualities make your favourite clients stand out? Pop over and share your thoughts with me on Instagram - @philippacraddock I'm always here and love to discuss your insights and experiences...

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and to receive early access to new resources and offerings for creative business owners.

In this episode, I’m hugely excited to introduce you to a set of straightforward steps that will help transform feelings of overwhelm into clarity, purpose, and action.

It’s a culmination of everything I've learnt over the last fourteen years from a small start-up to a successful seven-figure brand. And I've distilled it down into simple, actionable steps that you can use to achieve your own goals.

The turning point for me came with a simple realisation: success is not about doing more; it's about doing what's right and strategic. It’s about finding simplicity in the complexity. 

I hope this episode encourages you to embrace and take action on each of the steps, and use them as a clear tool to help you cut through the noise, to find your focus, and to take those decisive steps towards your goals. It’s not just another endless stream of advice, it’s a clear, straightforward and brilliant blueprint for action.

www.philippacraddock.com/goals

I was recently asked inside the community group within our annual signature Masterclass, for a list of recommended books, and I thought it would make a great podcast episode where I share the most inspiring books that have helped me within my business and those that have helped me in some way to have a positive outlook on life in general. I hope they will have a hugely positive impact on you too. Some you may have heard off and read, and may feel inspired to read again, and some may be brand new to you.

Together, they cover all areas of business, from a fresh perspective on old problems to timeless principles applied in a new novel way, one or more of these books could be a significant catalyst for your business and personal transformation. I hope so, I would love that for you.

In the spirit of lifelong learning, I've handpicked a collection of reads that are not just informative but are transformative. These are some of the books that have shaped my thinking, and I believe they will ignite that spark of brilliance in you too.

 And once you reach the end, definitely listen to episode 009, where I share a series of top tips to help you gain the most from helpful resources, where I explore a series of methods that will help you put all the brilliant ideas you gather, into actionable steps, so you genuinely move forward and can genuinely benefit from them.

In this episode we're discussing how to communicate your worth and ways to really help you understand and confidently see the immense value of your offerings. It's more than just the exchange of services for payment; it's about establishing a connection with your target audience, ensuring they understand not just what you do, but why it matters and makes a difference to them. It's not just about the numbers; it’s about the stories, the relationships, and the transformative experiences we foster.

We'll look at how to effectively present your offerings, making sure your clients see the heart, the dedication, and the expertise you bring and deliver. From actionable strategies to mindset shifts, we're covering methods to help you confidently assert your worth. I very much hope this episode will affirm the value you bring to every project, customer and client you work with.

If you’ve been rethinking how you communicate your own value or are looking for new perspectives on validating your worth, I hope this conversation offers you both guidance and motivation.

• www.philippacraddock.com

What if AI could make your customer service more personal, not less? Building on your writing style guide from last week, I share two practical tools that help you handle everything from common queries to tricky client emails with authentic care and consistency. These approaches will free up your time and energy for the areas of your business you love, while ensuring every response sounds genuinely like you.

Key Moments: 

• [00:00] Introduction to AI in customer service
• [01:53] Reflecting on last weeks episode and your success with using the 'Writing Style Paragraph'
• [04:01] First Tool: Using AI for common email responses
• [05:24] Making your template personal
• [10:50] Second Tool: Handling challenging client messages with grace
• [14:42] Practical steps to start using these tools this week
• [17:00] Summary: Becoming more consistantly personal using AI

Notable Quotes:

"Think of it like adding any new tool to your business - you start with the basics, build your confidence, and gradually discover more ways it can support your work."

"This neat little method helps us step back and respond from a place of clarity rather than reaction. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a lengthy or emotional email, you can quickly identify the core issues that need addressing."

Resources Mentioned:

• Last week's episode: 'The Writing Style Secret'
• 'Writing Style Paragraph Generator Tool'
• Read This Week's Full Journal Post
• 2 Template prompts

Share Your Insights:

Have you tried either of these approaches to managing client communications? I'd love to hear how they work for you. Drop me a DM on Instagram I'm always here and genuinely love to discuss your insights and experiences... 

Never Miss an Episode:

Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and first access to all our new resources. 

SO HOW DO YOU BALANCE BUSINESS WITH YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

Today we dive deep into the art of balancing business growth with a fulfilling personal life, especially for those running service-based businesses. If you're striving for success without sacrificing your well-being, this is the podcast for you. Get ready to uncover powerful strategies that will help you manage your time, price your services right, and scale your business without compromising your personal happiness.

Like many of our episodes this one was sparked by a listener's email highlighting their challenge of balancing their business growth with parenting.

In the episode we explore...

• Common challenges faced by service-based business owners.

• The difference between service-based and product-based businesses.

• The impact of these challenges on personal life and business growth.

Time Management and Prioritisation

• The significance of effective time management.

• Practical tips for prioritising tasks and managing time efficiently.

• Techniques like time-blocking and goal setting to enhance productivity.

Pricing Your Services Profitably and Sustainably

• Strategies for pricing services based on value rather than time.

• Importance of market research and understanding costs.

• Steps to set and adjust prices effectively for profitability.

Scaling Your Business

• Building a supportive team and leveraging freelancers.

• Standardising processes and using technology for efficiency.

• The importance of client retention over constantly seeking new clients.

Balancing Parenting and Personal Life with Business Growth

• Creating boundaries between work and personal time.

• Involving family members in the business and understanding their support.

• Practical steps to find balance and manage expectations.

 I hope you find this episode insightful and helpful. Balancing business and personal life is crucial for long-term success and well-being. Implementing the strategies discussed today will create a more balanced approach to managing your service-based business...

Resources:

• Episode link: 046. Time Management Techniques
• Pricing guide: Price With Confidence
• Email: hello@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com 

Contact Us Instagram: @philippacraddock

This episode dives deep into the transformative power of breathwork with James Dowler. James shares his journey from enduring chronic fatigue and pain to discovering the life-changing benefits of breathwork.

He explains how breathwork differs from more traditional meditation and how it can actively shift both physiological and psychological states.

From improving oxygen delivery and promoting relaxation to enhancing mental clarity and overall well-being, breathwork offers a myriad of benefits.

A key insight James shares is how practicing breathwork not only moves one into a more relaxed and settled place but also invokes a profound feeling of safety. Neuroscience shows that when we feel safe, it activates the higher brain structures essential for creativity and generative thinking. For many of us with creative businesses, this means that breathwork has the ability to significantly enhance our ability to be more artistic, entrepreneurial, and innovative by fostering a sense of safety and mental calm.

James provides practical tips for seamlessly integrating breathwork into your daily routine, whether it’s to unwind before bed or to kickstart your morning with positivity and reduced stress. 

Don't miss out on the Free Tutorial James has kindly shared, where you can experience first hand the profound benefits of breathwork, and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced, and creatively inspired life...

If you know someone that might benefit from listening to this episode please do forward it on, and if you have a moment please do leave a review on the platform you listen on. It means so much and really helps with future contect. 

Resources:

• James Dowler's app: Breathe with James - App Store / Google Play.
• James Dowler: Free Tutorial
• Book: The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown
• Book: The Healing Power of Breath by Richard Brown and Patricia Gerbarg
• Email: hello@philippacraddock.com
• Website: www.philippacraddock.com