PASSION to PROFIT

This episode is a deeply personal one. I'm sharing why the last episode about 'expensive hobbies' was quite difficult for me to create, and why the work that I do matters so much to me. Key Moments: [01:45] Philippa's childhood experiences and understanding of financial independence [03:50] Learning about entrepreneurship through a transformative family in London [09:13] The importance of supportive partnerships and personal financial independence [15:30] Two types of creative entrepreneurs Philippa serves [21:18] Why viability and alignment matter beyond business metrics   Notable Quotes: "Financial independence isn't a luxury. It's not about being ambitious or wanting more. It's about having choices. It's about safety. It's about being able to leave a situation. "When you build something that's genuinely yours, that uses your natural strengths, that creates real value for people, and that rewards you properly for it, that pride in your work transforms how you show up in every part of your life."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Listen Episode 115:  "An Expensive Hobby Versus A Viable Business" Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: What does financial independence mean to you? How has your creative business journey been shaped by your desire for personal and professional freedom? Share your thoughts and experiences through DMs over on Instagram   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter to receive exclusive insights into what's coming, behind-the-scenes content, and additional support for creative entrepreneurs wherever you are in your business.

"My husband has called what I do the most expensive hobby." That comment from a member of our recent live session, followed by a casual "LOL," broke my heart a little bit. Because behind that seemingly lighthearted laugh is something so many creative business owners are sitting with, the uncomfortable question about whether what they're building is actually viable. In this episode, I walk through the very specific difference between an expensive hobby and a viable business and share a straightforward method to help you move from one to the other.   Key Moments [00:00] Introduction: The uncomfortable truth about "expensive hobbies" [08:11] Defining the difference between a hobby and a business [11:23] The three-step framework for moving from hobby to viable business [17:18] Why charging properly is actually more generous [21:16] How to know if you're running a business or funding a hobby [26:09] The work required to shift from hobby to business   Quotes: "If you're feeling guilty about charging, that guilt is actually keeping you from helping and providing to as many people as you can." "When you build something that genuinely works for your life, instead of something your life works around."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Listen Episode 107: "Why There's never been a better time to build a creative business" Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: What stage is your creative business in right now? Are you struggling with seeing it as a viable business over an expensive hobby? Share your thoughts and experiences on Instagram  and let's continue the conversation...   Never Miss an Episode Join our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and be the first to hear what is coming next!  

What if the secret to unsticking your business isn't about complex strategies, but about changing a single fundamental question? In this powerful episode, we explore how one simple shift can transform your entire business approach, create more meaningful client connections, and reignite your entrepreneurial excitement.   Key Moments: [01:37] The story of Kate and how changing one business question transformed her entire team's approach [05:30] Why creative entrepreneurs are often measuring the wrong things in their businesses [08:02] The real cost of the wrong questions [13:20] Identifying the questions that might be keeping you stuck in your business [17:36] Practical steps to recognise and shift your business questioning approach   Notable Quotes: "When you focus on 'when did a client call?' you're focused on timing and mechanics. But when you ask 'what is the client getting from this interaction?' you're focused on value, on relationship, on the human element that actually drives creative business forward."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Philippa Craddock Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: What questions are you currently asking in your business that might be holding you back? Please do DM me on Instagram and share your insights! I'd love to hear how this episode resonates with your creative entrepreneurial journey.   Never Miss an Episode: Want to dive deeper into the foundations of building a creative business that truly reflects who you are? Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive insights, and weekly guidance to help you turn your creative passion into a thriving, aligned business.

Over the last few weeks, we've explored what makes you a creative business owner, why your creativity is your most valuable asset, what's working right now for creative businesses, why 26 Pinterest visitors matter more than a million views, and ways to generate revenue that feel aligned with how you work best. I've been getting messages from so many of you saying, "This all makes complete sense. I can see how my creativity is valuable. I understand I need to position myself differently, but how do I actually make this shift? How do I go from understanding these ideas to genuinely embodying them?" This episode looks at the foundational work to make this happen...   Key Moments: [00:00] The gap between understanding business concepts and genuinely implementing them [02:05] Why creativity is your greatest business advantage [04:20:] The Missing Piece: Stories of transformation  [07:05:] Building on what we have discussed [09:50] The realistic timeline that actually works  [14:01] Introduction to The Base Notes Experience and its approach [19:02] What this prepares you for and why now [24:15] Understanding to transformation: Justine explains what happens when you finally make this shift   Notable Quotes: "There's a gap between knowing you're valuable, knowing you have so much value to offer others, and actually showing up with that confidence."  "It's not about learning to do these things despite being creative. It's all about celebrating and realising these things work better because you're creative, and thenbuilding your entire business from that foundation."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Philippa Craddock Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: What's your biggest challenge in truly embodying your creative business identity? Are you struggling to see your unique strengths or feeling stuck between understanding and implementing? I want to hear your story. Send me a direct message on Instagram  your journey matters, and you might just be on the brink of your own transformation!   Never Miss an Episode: Want to dive deeper into the foundations of building a creative business that truly reflects who you are? Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes stories and weekly guidance to help you turn your creative passion into a thriving, aligned business.

Today's episode is different. I'm in conversation with Vicky Hagen, founder of Hattie & Vic, a personal styling business that empowers women through beautifully considered clothing. What makes this conversation special is that Vicky participated in The Base Notes first cohort earlier this year, and you'll hear how understanding her exceptional strengths has transformed not just her business clarity and confidence, but how she shows up for her clients every single day.   Key Moments: [02:57] Vicky's origin story: Transforming personal styling to be more accessible and emotionally supportive [08:54] The transformative power of styling: Understanding women's life stages and personal empowerment [19:34] Choosing reflection over fear: Discovering the Base Notes as a method for business realignment [22:36] Finding the permission slip to turn up as you are [32:14] The challenges of running a business before finding a clear method [43:41] The power of finding your own business answers through guided reflection [51:24] Experiencing growth through intentional foundational work [105:55] The podcast as a supportive resource for creative entrepreneurs [112:30] Envisioning the future of Hattie & Vic   Notable Quotes: "The Base Notes is a method, not a formula. It doesn't tell you what the answer should be - that's your decision. It gives you the opportunity to consider all aspects of your business in a comprehensive way." - Vicky Hagen "What makes the Base Notes so powerful is that it allows you to dip back into it in a non-linear fashion. After the initial deep dive, it becomes a resource that shines a spotlight on opportunities to do things differently." - Vicky Hagen   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Philippa Craddock Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com  Hattie & Vic Website: www.hattie&vic.com Hattie & Vic Instagram @hattieandvic   Share Your Insights: Are you feeling the tension between your creative passion and business identity? What holds you back from fully embracing your role as a creative business owner? Share your thoughts with me over on Instagram i read every message   Never Miss an Episode: Join our  weekly newsletter  to receive exclusive insights, behind-the-scenes content, and support for creative entrepreneurs straight to your inbox.  

In the final months of the year, many creative entrepreneurs feel pressure to "finish strong" by launching something new, addind yet another service or completely reinventing what they are doing.. But what if the most straightforward path to additional revenue is already sitting right in your existing work and relationships? In this episode I share five practical approaches specifically designed for creative minds to generate income that aligns with your natural working style.   Key Moments: [00:00] Challenging the pressure to "finish strong"  [04:26] Why traditional business advice often fails creative entrepreneurs [05:37] First approach: Creating simple, focused solution-based services [09:29] Second approach: Authentically reconnecting with existing network [10:56] Third approach: Identifying overlooked opportunities people already ask about [12:06] Fourth approach: Collaborative partnerships that complement your work [14:56] Fifth approach: 30-day commitment to a new communication strategy [15:50] Importance of confidence and clarity in implementing these approaches   Notable Quotes: "Your creative business doesn't need to become something completely different to be more profitable. You need to get better at recognising and valuing what you already do brilliantly."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: What revenue approach resonates most with you? Share a strategy you're excited to explore in your creative business. Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know!   Never Miss an Episode: Join our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes resources and exclusive content that will help you build a business that feels authentically yours

After watching Pinterest webinars promising millions of views and instant success, I uncover the game-changing truth about sustainable marketing for creative entrepreneurs. Discover why 26 strategic website visitors matter infinitely more than vanity metrics, and how authentic, strengths-led marketing can transform your business growth.   Key Moments: [02:27] The problem with Pinterest webinars promising instant success [04:43] September's Pinterest metrics: 14,905 impressions, 26 unique website visitors [06:26] Why 26 real people matter more than millions of views [10:30] Creating a simple, 30-minute weekly Pinterest routine [12:48] The importance of having a website that supports visitors [14:34] Building marketing strategies around personal strengths [20:20] October's Pinterest strategy: increasing to 5 pins per week [22:36] The bigger picture: sustainable business growth through authentic marketing   Notable Quotes: "Twenty-six people finding your perfect-for-them website is worth more than a million views that lead nowhere!" "Your creative business doesn't need millions of anything to succeed. It needs the right people to find you, and it needs you to be ready to look after them really well when they do."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Pinterest Experiment Guide:  Follow Along with My Pinterest Experiment  Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Link: My Story Page Podcast Episode: 106. My Pinterest Experiment: Month 1 Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: I'd love to hear if you're testing Pinterest in your own business or considering it after hearing about my experiment. What resonated most with your approach to sustainable marketing? Send me an email at news@philippacraddock.com with your discoveries or DM me on Instagram. I'm genuinely curious about what works for others too.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. You'll get practical guidance delivered straight to your inbox, plus monthly Pinterest experiment updates as my six-month journey unfolds.

"What actually makes you a creative business owner?" Last week, I was asked this brilliant question at a creative business event and it made me think deeply: While it sounds simple, how you answer this question could fundamentally change everything about how you see your entrepreneurial capabilities.   Key Moments: [02:05] A transformative conversation at LineUp, London [04:22] Defining what truly makes a creative business owner [09:30] Why creativity drives business success and why traditional advice falls short for creative entrepreneurs [12:40] How creativity fuels problem-solving, differentiation, and business resilience [17:02] The power of understanding and building around your individual strengths [20:05] How to stand out in a saturated market by embracing your unique approach     Notable Quotes: "The most memorable creative businesses aren't the ones following industry norms or copying what everyone else does. They're built on the unique talents of their founders."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: What's your exceptional creative strength? How could you build your business more intentionally around what you naturally do best? DM me on Instagram and share your thoughts! I'd love to hear your unique perspective.   Never Miss an Episode: Join my weekly newsletter for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, early access to resources, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday.

Last week, I had dinner with a brand strategist named Sarah who was completely deflated. She'd just lost a potential client to someone charging half her rates. But here's the fascinating part: that client had spent twenty minutes explaining why Sarah's approach felt so different, so thoughtful, and exactly what they needed. They praised her insights, described her process in detail, even said they felt confident she could transform their business. And then they chose someone else purely on price. Sarah thought this was evidence she needed to lower her rates. I saw something completely different... a pattern I've seen across many creative businesses that, once you understand it, changes everything about how you position your work...   Key Moments: [00:00] The dinner conversation with Sarah that sparked a critical business insight [03:14] Why price isn't the ultimate deciding factor for clients [06:17] The real value of understanding your unique business approach [10:03] How to communicate your exceptional strengths [16:10] Strategies for attracting clients who value expertise [21:55] Breaking the cycle of underpricing and overdelivering [28:24] Transforming consultations into value-demonstration opportunities   Notable Quotes: "When you price based on the outcomes you create rather than competing on cost, you attract clients who are looking to invest in what you deliver and what they want to achieve." "Quality has become non-negotiable, but it's no longer enough on its own. Beautiful work is expected. What makes you stand out now is how you think, how you solve problems, and how the experience of working with you feels from the very first interaction."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: Have you experienced a moment when a client recognised your unique value but chose a cheaper alternative? Share your story and insights with me over on Instagram. DM me and let's discuss how we can better communicate our exceptional strengths.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, early access to new resources, and weekly inspiration for creative entrepreneurs. Get the first look at upcoming programs and special offers

The combined creative economies of Western Europe, US, Australia, New Zealand and Canada are now valued at over $1 trillion - driven primarily by solo entrepreneurs and small teams. So why in these seemingly booming times do many creative entrepreneurs still feel like they are struggling? Today we explore the disconnect between this massive opportunity and the way most creative entrepreneurs are trying to build their businesses - and reveal the three key shifts that are making all the difference for those who are succeeding. You will discover you are more ready than you think...   Key Moments: [00:00] Challenging conventional wisdom about creative businesses [02:00] The incredible scale of the creative economy - UK and global figures [05:53] Why creative businesses still struggle despite market strength  [08:58] The three real reasons creative entrepreneurs get stuck [11:44] Why now is actually the perfect time for creative businesses  [17:33] What's working now - key shifts for success [17:50] First shift: Identity over tactics [19:33] Second shift: Building around your natural strengths [20:59] Third shift: Sustainable systems that support creativity  [23:45] Your place in the creative economy and next steps   Notable Quotes: "What's easy for you is often impossible for your clients - that's exactly why they need you." "The creative entrepreneurs who are succeeding aren't starting with marketing strategies or business plans. They're starting with a fundamental shift in how they see themselves."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Pinterest Experiment Guide:  Follow Along with My Pinterest Experiment  Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: How has your perspective on your creative business changed after hearing these market insights? I'd love to hear what resonated most with you - send me a DM on Instagram. I really do read and respond to every message, however old the episode - your insights often inspire future episodes.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights from each episode, plus exclusive resources and first access to new offerings. You'll get the deeper context that makes each episode even more valuable.  

One month into my Pinterest experiment and I've discovered that everything I'd heard about Pinterest was wrong. Everyone says post daily (some say 30 times a day!). But three strategic pins per week actually works better than seven rushed ones. The results? 11,000 impressions in month one and people clicking through to my website. Sometimes the sustainable approach beats the overwhelming one!   Key Moments: [05:52] Why this Pinterest Experiment matters [10:32] The big revelation [17:55] The sustainability reality check [26:05] Surprising technical discoveries [30:24] The numbers from month one and what they actually mean [32:36] The Strategic shift - What's coming next with AI agents [35:52] Overview and my hypothesis [37:28] My practical take aways and the deeper lesson [44:17] What to expect next   Notable Quotes: "Pinterest success isn't about posting more - it's all about posting strategically. I always prefer careful and practical strategy over sheer numbers for the sake of it." "You need enough time to get past the initial excitement and see how something feels when it becomes routine. So much business advice focuses on the first week or two, but sustainability shows up in week three and beyond."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Pinterest Experiment Guide:  Follow Along with My Pinterest Experiment  Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: hello@philippacraddock.com    Share Your Insights: I'd love to hear if you're testing Pinterest in your own business or considering it after hearing about my experiment. What resonated most with your approach to sustainable marketing? Send me an email at hello@philippacraddock.com with your discoveries or DM me on Instagram. I'm genuinely curious about what works for others too.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. You'll get practical guidance delivered straight to your inbox, plus monthly Pinterest experiment updates as my six-month journey unfolds.

An Instagram post about spending eight weeks in Greece with my family has so far generated over 165,000 views and revealed something profound... creative entrepreneurs yearning for freedom but unsure how to get there. This week, I'm answering the five questions myself and showing you exactly what your answers reveal about building the business and life you actually want.   Key Moments: [00:00] The Instagram post that has now generated 165,000 views and what it revealed about creative entrepreneurs [04:46] Why traditional business advice fails creative minds and the breakthrough that changed everything [07:22] The question that reveals your true business vision (and why most people get this completely wrong) [13:11] The natural ability you're probably undervaluing that could transform your income [18:16] How to identify the part of your business where you feel most authentically yourself [22:53] The permission question that could eliminate half your current stress immediately [26:38] The vulnerable truth most entrepreneurs won't admit (but must address to move forward) [30:24] What your answers reveal about your path to genuine freedom and success [32:37] One simple step to start building your ideal Tuesday this week   Notable Quotes: "The gap between where you are and where you want to be is almost never about working harder or learning more tactics - it's about recognising what you naturally do brilliantly and building everything around that." "Your impossible dream? It starts with believing it's possible."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Coffee invitation: 5 Questions to Create Your Next Chapter Pinterest experiment: Follow Along with My Pinterest Experiment Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: I'd love to hear which of these five questions resonated most with you! What came up when you imagined your ideal ordinary Tuesday? Share your insights with me on Instagram - I read every message and love hearing about your discoveries. Please know your reflections often inspire future episodes and help our entire community grow.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. You'll also receive practical guidance for building a creative business that aligns with your natural strengths whilst creating genuine freedom.  

Last week, a simple Instagram post about our family summers in Greece generated over 110,000 views and more responses than anything I've shared in a while. But it wasn't the Greece part that resonated, it was the underlying message about designing your business around the life you actually want to live. The messages revealed the same question: "I can see what I want, but I don't know how to bridge the gap." Here are the five questions that will help you find that bridge.   Key Moments: [01:37] The Instagram post that reached over 110,000 people and what it revealed [03:04] Why the gap isn't about lacking skills or strategies  [03:36] Introducing "The 5 Questions to Create Your Next Chapter" [10:05] How to use these questions this week and what's coming next   Notable Quotes: "Most of us are so busy following generic business advice that we've never stopped to ask ourselves the fundamental questions about what we truly want our business to make possible in our lives." "The clarity you're seeking is already inside you. You just need the right questions to access it."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Coffee invitation: 5 Questions to Create Your Next Chapter Pinterest experiment: Follow Along with My Pinterest Experiment Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: I'd love to hear which of these five questions immediately sparked something for you. Sometimes just hearing the right question can shift everything about how we see our business possibilities. Send me a message on Instagram - I read every single one and your insights often inspire future episodes.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new programmes and community launches. Plus, you'll be the first to know when The Base Notes community opens again    

There's an invisible line that many creative entrepreneurs struggle to cross, from seeing yourself as a creative person who happens to sell their offerings, to stepping fully into being a creative business owner. It sounds like a small difference, but it changes absolutely everything about how you operate. This final episode of our summer series is about making that shift and owning your identity as a professional creative business owner. Your creativity doesn't diminish, it becomes your unique business advantage when treated with the professional respect it deserves.   Key Moments: [02:01] The invisible line: creative person vs. creative business owner [04:21] Why "humility" about your work actually holds everyone back [06:45] Simple systems that signal professional seriousness [08:35] You're not becoming a business owner, you already are one!   Notable Quotes: "When you show up as a confident business owner, you give your clients permission to see you that way too. They trust you more, they value your input more, they're happier to pay your prices, and they refer you to others with confidence." "You're not just creative. You're a creative business owner. Own it, because the world needs what you have to offer."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's   Full Journal Post Pinterest experiment: Follow Along with My Pinterest Experiment Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: What resonated most with you about stepping into your identity as a creative business owner? I'd love to hear about your own identity shifts or the small professional systems you're implementing this week. Share your thoughts with me on Instagram, I read every message however old the podcast and love connecting with you.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new programmes and community launches. Plus, you'll be the first to know when The Base Notes community opens again.

As creatives we often think perfectionism makes our work better, but it's actually costing us clients, opportunities and genuine connections with our audience. While you're perfecting, polishing, and waiting for everything to be "ready," your ideal clients are working with someone else - someone who showed up, shared their work, and made that human connection. In this episode we explore why "good enough, shared" always beats "perfect, hidden."   Key Moments: [02:19] The real cost of perfectionism: missing clients while you perfect your work [03:57] Why people hire you, not just your skills - the power of authentic connection [05:57] The ceramicist story: how perfectionism was blocking growth and visibility [08:58] Behind-the-scenes content gets more engagement than polished perfection [11:52] This week's experiment: sharing "good enough" instead of perfect   Notable Quotes: "People don't just hire your skills. They hire you. And perfectionism often hides the very personality and authenticity that makes you memorable and trustworthy." "Your clients want to work with someone they trust, someone they feel comfortable with, someone who feels real and approachable. And perfectionism actually works against all of those things."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's   Full Journal Post Previous Episode Mentioned: 101. Why Your Natural Skills Are Your Biggest Asset Previous Episode Mentioned: 100. The One Thing Holding Back Your Creative Business Pinterest experiment: Follow Along with My Pinterest Experiment Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: What's one thing you've been holding back from sharing because it wasn't "perfect" yet? I'd love to hear about your experiment with "good enough" content - send me a message on Instagram and let me know what you discover when you share something genuine rather than polished.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter  for behind-the-scenes insights, including my current Pinterest experiment where I'm sharing both the wins and frustrations as I test what works. You'll get first access to new resources and exclusive content that doesn't appear anywhere else.  

"It's just something I'm naturally good at." "It feels too easy to charge for." "Anyone could do that." I hear these phrases constantly from creative entrepreneurs who are unknowingly dismissing their most valuable business assets. What feels effortless to you is often exactly what clients will pay premium prices for. In this episode, I'll show you how to spot your undervalued strengths and turn them into your most profitable offerings.   Key Moments: [01:53] The problem: Why "it feels too easy" is costing you money [02:53] Real examples of natural skills being undervalued by their owners [03:52] The weird guilt about charging for things that come naturally [05:31] The reframe: Easy for you doesn't mean easy for everyone else [06:50] How to recognise when ease actually indicates expertise [07:31] This week's action: Start tracking your "no big deal" moments   Notable Quotes: "What feels effortless to you is often what clients and customers will pay premium prices for. The skill that comes naturally, that you barely have to think about, that you assume everyone can do - that's probably your most valuable part of your offerings." "Your clients aren't just paying for your time. They're paying for your perspective, your expertise, your ability to see solutions they can't see. They're paying for the years of experience that allow you to make something look effortless."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: What natural skill do you find yourself dismissing as "no big deal" that others consistently compliment you on? I'd love to hear about those abilities you take for granted that might actually be your biggest business assets. Send me a DM on Instagram, I read every message and love helping you recognise your genuine value.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. You'll get thoughtful business guidance that supports your creative entrepreneural journey.

"I'm not a real business owner yet." "I'm just starting out." "I don't have enough experience." I hear these types of phrases constantly from creative entrepreneurs - even ones who've been successfully running businesses for years. This single limiting belief is costing you money, opportunities, and confidence, but the good news is it's completely fixable. As we reach our 100th podcast episode, here's the mindset shift that changes everything about how you see yourself and your creative business. This belief shows up in how you price your services, communicate your value, and the growth opportunities you don't pursue because you assume you're not ready. If you've ever downplayed your expertise or waited for permission to call yourself a legitimate business owner, this episode will help you step fully into your professional identity and unlock the sustainable business growth you've been working towards.   Key Moments: [02:29] Celebrating 100 episodes and the collaborative nature of this podcast [04:47] The one belief sabotaging creative businesses more than anything else [06:01] How this self-doubt manifests - even in successful creative entrepreneurs [09:03] The uncomfortable but powerful exercise to shift this belief [11:36] The truth about becoming "legitimate" as a business owner   Notable Quotes: "The creative entrepreneurs who thrive aren't necessarily the most experienced or the most qualified. They're the ones who recognise their own value and own it confidently." "There's no magic moment when you suddenly become 'legitimate.' There's no external validation that makes you a 'real' business owner. It's a decision you make about how you see yourself and your work."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: I'd love to hear how this resonates with you! Have you caught yourself saying "I'm not a real business owner yet" despite all the evidence to the contrary? What shift in language feels most powerful for you? Send me a message on Instagram, I genuinely love hearing from you, however old the episode!   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and be the first to know about new programme launches and exclusive resources.

That email you've been staring at for twenty minutes, trying to sound "professional" but ending up sounding like a robot?! I've been there. For years, I thought being professional meant hiding my personality behind formal language and corporate-speak. Then I met Elisa, a Sardinian event planner who was completely herself in every interaction... warm, direct, enthusiastic, while running a hugely successful international business. She taught me that authenticity doesn't make you less professional; it makes you more effective. This episode explores how to find that balance between being genuinely yourself and being professional, and why your real voice is actually your greatest business asset.   Key Moments: [03:40] The professional mask we think we need and why formal language often backfires [05:31] My turning point: learning from Elisa Mocci and discovering authentic professionalism [09:21] The cost of hiding behind formality  [10:32] What authentic professionalism actually looks like in practice [13:00] Finding your boundaries: what to share and what to keep private [13:43] Overcoming the fear that authenticity will turn off serious clients [14:58] How dyslexia taught me that vulnerability can become strength [15:48] Why your real voice matters more than ever in an AI-generated world   Notable Quotes: "When you're hiding behind overly formal language, you're not building genuine connections. And business, especially creative business, is fundamentally about relationships." "Your unique voice, your particular way of seeing things, your specific experiences - these are your competitive advantages. When you try to sound like everyone else, you're giving up the very thing that makes you irreplaceable."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Free Persistence Guide:  Thoughtful Persistence: Why Silence Doesn't Mean No Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: I'd love to hear about your experience with finding the balance between authenticity and professionalism. Have you noticed a difference in client responses when you've communicated more naturally? What barriers have you faced in letting your real voice come through in your business communications? Send me a DM on Instagram - I read every message and love connecting with you about these topics.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, exclusive resources, and first access to new offerings. You'll get thoughtful business guidance that supports your creative entrepreneurship journey.

That beautiful pitch you sent months ago? The one that never received a response and left you feeling completely rejected? This silence almost never means what you think it means. After two years of rejection from Selfridges, I was told I "wasn't fashionable enough." Instead of giving up, I created fashion-inspired flower arrangements and turned up at their offices. That persistence became the foundation of one of my most important business relationships. Here's what I've learnt about the difference between thoughtful persistence and being pushy, and why your gentle nature is actually your biggest business strength when building a creative business.   Key Moments: [02:30] Why persistence only got 12% of votes despite being what holds people back most [03:58] The story of 20 beautifully crafted cards that received zero responses [05:37] What silence really means (and why our minds jump to rejection) [07:15] My Selfridges story: two years of "no" becoming my most important business relationship [11:44] The truth about creative professionals and why your "too much" probably isn't [12:53] When persistence works and when it becomes problematic  [17:31] The golden rule of follow-up: adding value rather than adding to to-do lists [18:25] Five practical strategies for thoughtful persistence [20:34] About the Free Guide and how it can help you.   Notable Quotes: "Your version of 'rude or pushy or annoying' is probably most people's version of 'thoughtfully persistent.'" "Most of the time, when we think we're hearing 'not ever,' we're actually hearing 'not right now.'"   Resources Mentioned: Free Persistence Guide: Thoughtful Persistence: Why Silence Doesn't Mean No Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: If today's episode gave you the courage to send that follow-up message you've been putting off, I'd love to hear about it. Have you experienced a situation where persistence paid off in ways you didn't expect? Share your experience with me over on Instagram or through DM's. I always read all your thoughts and comments however old the episode!   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter  for behind-the-scenes insights and be the first to know about new episodes. You'll also get exclusive resources and first access to new offerings.  

That dream you haven't dared say out loud? The one that feels embarrassingly unrealistic? It might be exactly what your creative business needs. I started my flower business delivering bud vases to rural pubs, secretly dreaming of working with luxury brands and venues. That impossible vision didn't make building my business harder, it made everything clearer. When you aim for something extraordinary, project decisions become far more obvious. In this episode we look at how thinking on a scale of 10x instead of 2x can transform everything from your daily choices to the opportunities you attract, and how to hold massive dreams without losing your mind! Whether you're dreaming of premium clients, luxury brand partnerships, or building a seven figure creative business, this strategic approach to ambitious goal setting will revolutionise how you grow your creative business. Key Moments [04:18] The secret dream I didn't dare share - from kitchen table to luxury brands [06:23] Why small dreams keep you small and thinking in incremental improvements [09:21] The strategic power of impossible goals and how they force innovation [11:30] Dreams creative entrepreneurs whisper and why they're not as impossible as they seem [14:54] How to hold big dreams without losing your mind - the private vision strategy [19:07] When dreams change entire industries and create space for others to follow [20:44] The permission you've been waiting for - why your biggest dreams aren't big enough   Notable Quotes: "When you allow yourself to dream impossibly big, you can't just do more of the same. You have to completely reimagine what's possible." "The difference between creative entrepreneurs who build extraordinary businesses and those who stay stuck isn't talent, luck, or connections. It's the willingness to envision something so compelling that it pulls them forwards through every obstacle."   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's  Full Journal Post Read: 10x is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Dr Benjamin Hardy Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com   Share Your Insights: What's the dream you haven't dared to say out loud? I'd love to hear about it. DM me on Instagram i'm genuinely excited to hear it, These impossible dreams are what transform not just your business, but entire industries.   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to my weekly newsletter for insights on building your creative business around what you naturally do best. Next week, we're exploring persistence - how to handle rejection and keep moving towards those ambitious goals in a way that feels comfortable rather than pushy.