Building your Brand

I'm welcoming friend of the podcast Alice Benham back for the fourth time, because we always have such brilliant chats. Alice is a business strategist, speaker, author and the founder of ON IT. While we do completely different things, our businesses overlap more than you might expect, from how we've diversified to the values behind our decisions. In this episode, we get into what diversification really looks like behind the scenes. Alice shares how she went from over 15 offers to one core programme that brings in around 80% of her revenue, and what it feels like to earn most of your income in Q4. We also dig into brand partnerships: being managed (or not), protecting your audience's trust, and how to decide which opportunities earn a place in your business. We even talk numbers, which I always love. Key Takeaways You don't have to find your "one thing" upfront. Alice never planned for ON IT to become her core offer. Experimenting and following the data showed her what to build around. Focus is mostly about saying no. Ask yourself, "What am I saying no to so I can say yes to this?" Then trust yourself to work out plan B, C or D if things don't go to plan. Make every income stream earn its place. Ask what each one brings to the table, and rate them on profit, energy, enjoyment and scalability. Enjoyment isn't a nice-to-have. Brand partnerships run on trust. Only promote what you'd genuinely use, get your audience used to ads early, and remember that paid work can fund more free content. Being managed isn't a badge of success. Work out what you need (admin support or a growth partner), prove your concept first, and make sure you have the capacity to run with it. Episode Highlights 02:39: Alice breaks down her income streams, from one-to-one strategy and ON IT to brand partnerships, retreats, book royalties and speaking, and we compare notes on how similar our businesses are. 05:16: How Alice went from over 15 offers to five main income streams, with 80% of her revenue coming from one, and why she says she's "diversified backwards". 08:13: What it feels like to make most of your income in Q4, and why Alice's advice is to experiment rather than hunt for your one thing. 16:01: How brand partnerships fit into Alice's business, from her first deal with Penfold to the idea of "monetising downwards" so you can give more away for free. 18:44: The pros and cons of being managed, Alice's honest experience, and what good management should actually bring. 28:43: Why I put ads in my podcast from the start, how to train your audience to expect them, and how to filter partnerships through trust, values and creativity. 38:34: Rating everything in your business on energy, enjoyment, profit and scalability, and why saying yes to everything isn't as generous as it looks. About the Guest Alice Benham is a business strategist, speaker, author and the founder of ON IT, a year-long programme that helps business owners connect their big vision to their daily action. Website: AliceBenham.co.uk Instagram: @alice_benham ON IT (with discount code LIZ10): On It Mentioned in the Episode Alice's Notes app screenshot post about doing more ads Free Vision prompts Penfold (Aff link - get £25 when you sign up) , the pensions company CreatorFest , the creator conference Ola Pelo, creator and guest at my live podcast event in London Paul Ince , my coach, and his exercise for rating your offers Alice's previous episodes on the podcast https://buildingyourbrand.net/episode/alice-benham/ and https://buildingyourbrand.net/episode/10-boring-things-that-create-exciting-growth-with-alice-benham/ and https://buildingyourbrand.net/episode/the-honest-truth-about-writing-a-business-book-with-alice-benham/ Come and say hello I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! End Credits This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

In this episode, I'm sharing six honest reasons I might say no to a podcast guest pitch. I currently receive more pitches than ever, and while I still want to discover brilliant guests I may not already know, I need a clearer process for deciding which conversations are the right fit. Think of this as a practical, behind-the-scenes guide to pitching thoughtfully, making a host's job easier, and giving your idea the best possible chance. Key Takeaways A thoughtful pitch goes a long way Taking a little time to understand a podcast and its audience shows that you value the host, their listeners and the opportunity to contribute. Experience helps you show up with confidence Guesting on other podcasts first can help you feel more comfortable with the format, refine your message and make the conversation stronger for everyone listening. Specific ideas are more compelling than broad expertise Do not just say what you do. Offer a clear topic, a distinctive angle and a sense of what listeners will take away from the conversation. Make it easy for people to say yes Include direct links to your website, social channels and previous interviews. The less detective work a host has to do, the more likely they are to explore your pitch. Confidence does not mean entitlement You can be clear and enthusiastic without assuming you have already been booked. A good pitch invites a conversation rather than demanding a slot. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Why I'm receiving more podcast pitches than ever and changing my pitching process 01:18 – Why previous podcast guest experience has become an important consideration 02:30 – The value of pitching a clear topic and helping a host imagine the conversation 04:22 – Why links to your website, social media and past interviews matter 05:19 – The problem with assuming a host will say yes before they have considered your pitch 06:52 – Why inaccurate flattery and unverified AI-generated details undermine a pitch 08:58 – How to make an initial DM or email feel considered, relevant and easy to respond to 10:29 – The bigger aim: creating a clearer, more manageable guest-pitching system I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

In this episode, I'm joined by money coach and return guest Talia Loderick to talk about the emotional side of money, as well as the practical habits that can help us feel more in control. We explore the stories we tell ourselves about being "bad with money," how our upbringing shapes our financial behaviour, and why creating a system that works for your brain matters more than following someone else's rules. If money feels overwhelming, this conversation is a supportive reminder that confidence comes from small, consistent actions. I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and edited by me, recorded and produced at Kingsbane Studios If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review! Key Takeaways You are not "bad with money" — you may just need more time with it Avoidance can make finances feel more intimidating. Getting familiar with your numbers, little by little, helps replace anxiety with clarity. Your money habits are shaped by stories, not just spreadsheets The beliefs you absorbed growing up, the messages you hear online and the expectations around you can all influence your financial decisions. Naming those stories gives you more choice over what comes next. Define financial success on your own terms Your priorities might be family holidays, flexibility, security, creativity or adventure. There is no universal "right" way to spend, save or invest; the aim is to make your money support what matters to you. Small actions build real confidence You do not need a perfect plan before you begin. Saving a small amount, checking your accounts regularly or separating your business and personal finances creates evidence that you can handle your money. Know how much it costs to be you Understanding your genuine monthly outgoings — including essentials, enjoyment, savings and future goals — gives you the information you need to make informed decisions without guesswork. Give your business finances a clear structure Separate accounts, a regular pay date and a realistic view of cash flow can make self-employment feel less chaotic and help you pay yourself with more consistency. Episode Highlights 01:45 – What a money coach does and why mindset matters alongside practical financial skills 07:14 – Letting go of the story that you are "bad with money" 12:05 – Defining what financial success and a good life look like for you 20:22 – How relationships, upbringing and household circumstances shape money decisions 27:14 – Practical foundations for self-employed people: separate accounts, cash flow and paying yourself regularly 40:17 – Building financial confidence through action, habits and small achievable goals 48:14 – Starting a pension or savings habit before you feel completely ready 52:34 – Two helpful starting points: identify your values and understand your real monthly costs Mentioned in the Episode Talia Loderick's newsletter - https://www.talialoderick.co.uk/newsletter About the Guest Talia Loderick is a Money Coach who helps women understand and take control of their behaviour with money so they can stop stressing about money and start ensuring they have enough to live well – now and in future. Talia's website and money coaching – https://www.talialoderick.co.uk/

In this episode, I'm sharing the content-repurposing habits that have helped me show up more consistently without feeling like I'm constantly creating from scratch. I definitely don't have a perfect system, but I've found a few simple ways to reuse evergreen posts, turn long-form content into smaller pieces, and make the most of the work I've already done. If creating content feels overwhelming, I hope this gives you permission to make it easier. Key Takeaways Your existing content is full of possibility A useful post does not have to be used just once. If it is still relevant, sharing it again gives it another chance to reach the people who need it. Consistency does not require constant reinvention Scheduling and revisiting evergreen content can help you keep showing up, especially during busy periods when creating something new feels difficult. Long-form content can work harder for you A podcast transcript, blog post or video script can become a carousel, LinkedIn post, Reel, email or a collection of future content ideas. Use tools to support your creativity, not replace it Assistive tools can help you identify key points, organise ideas and create a first draft, while your voice, judgement and creative direction remain central. Repetition helps people remember what you stand for Re-sharing core ideas is not boring. It reinforces the topics you want to be known for and helps new followers discover your work. Small systems create more breathing room Saving drafts, batching simple formats and planning future reposts can reduce pressure and make visibility feel much more manageable. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Why I'm learning to repurpose content instead of always creating from scratch 00:45 – My simple scheduling habit for reusing evergreen posts in three to six months 04:17 – Turning podcast transcripts and long-form content into carousels and social posts 07:50 – Using past content to spot recurring themes and generate fresh ideas 08:15 – Re-recording older video scripts to refresh content quickly 09:16 – How other creators reuse Reels multiple times in different formats 10:46 – Why repurposing has helped me stay visible and build steady growth Mentioned in the Episode Adobe Express (aff link) Adobe Acrobat Brock Johnson Post it Five Times post I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

In this episode, I chat with Morin Glimmer, a feminist brand strategist who works at the intersection of business, brand and body. Drawing on 15 years of shaping brands and 30 years of living with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), Morin shares her journey of building identity-led brand foundations and cycle-aware businesses. We dig into what working cyclically actually looks like in practice, why rest isn't a productivity hack, and how letting our physical realities inform our business strategy can lead to a far more sustainable, aligned way of working. Key Takeaways Your business strategy is missing a piece: your body. As solopreneurs especially, our physical capacity is our "capacity reservoir" — and ignoring it systematically is often at the root of burnout. Rest isn't something you earn. We need to unlearn the conditioning that ties our worth to productivity and instead rest simply because we're human beings, not because we've "earned" it. Map your phases to the seasons. Tracking how you feel over roughly three months reveals patterns you can map to the four seasons of nature, so you can lean into your strengths at each phase. Boundaries build trust — in yourself and with others. A simple move like a cycle-aware out-of-office message protects your energy and quietly gives others permission to rest too. Honouring your cycle can transform your health. Since fully integrating cycle awareness into her work, Morin says her PMDD symptoms have been virtually non-existent. Episode Highlights 01:00: Morin introduces herself as a feminist brand strategist building identity-led, cycle-aware businesses. 02:00: Her untraditional start in design — including designing backstage passes for a founding member of the Velvet Underground — and burning out within 10 months at a big branding agency. 07:00: The "penny drop" moment: realising the four phases of the menstrual cycle mirror the four seasons of nature. 09:00: Why rest shouldn't be treated as a productivity hack — we deserve it simply for being human. 15:00: The boundary that changed everything: Morin's cycle-aware out-of-office reply and blocking out "bleed" days in her calendar. 21:00: How honouring her cycle made Morin's PMDD symptoms virtually disappear, plus the "spoons" model for thinking about finite energy. 32:00: The story behind the name Rosie Futures, and how embodying her cyclical brand transformed her business. About the Guest Website: rosyfutures.com — sign up for her newsletter, Rosy Letters Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosy.futures/ Mentioned in the Episode Spoon theory – the concept Morin references for thinking about finite daily energy, popular within neurodivergent communities. Meg Lewis – a designer I've had on the podcast before, referenced in our chat about breaking industry "rules" around how designers are supposed to work and present themselves. Hannah and Lois – friends of the podcast, mentioned in relation to a past episode on redefining success and unpicking the fear of growth. I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

In today's solo episode, I'm reflecting on the role joy plays in building a business that actually feels sustainable. I share why it is so important to notice the work, marketing and opportunities that genuinely light you up, rather than forcing yourself into someone else's version of success. This is your reminder that you can build a business around your strengths, your energy and the things you truly enjoy. I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review! Key Takeaways Joy is useful information The parts of your business that energise you can reveal where your strengths, interests and best opportunities lie. You do not have to market like everyone else Podcasting, video, writing, LinkedIn or something else entirely can be the right fit. Choose the channel that helps you show up with enthusiasm. Knowing yourself creates a more sustainable business The clearer you are on what you enjoy, what drains you and what matters to you, the easier it is to make decisions that feel aligned. Permission to do things differently is powerful There will always be opinions about the "right" way to run a business. You can take what helps and leave the rest. Alignment makes consistency easier Going all in on work you genuinely enjoy is more likely to feel sustainable than forcing yourself to follow strategies you resent. Episode Highlights 00:10 – Why joy has become an important lens for how I approach my business 02:20 – Recognising the difference between what you think you should do and what you genuinely enjoy 05:00 – Finding marketing methods that suit your personality and strengths 08:00 – Letting go of outside opinions and choosing what works for you 10:55 – Permission to pursue the parts of business that light you up 12:01 – Reflections on being a podcast guest and how conversation can bring clarity Mentioned In The Episode A Thought I Kept "Should is the Killer of Joy." — Liz Mosley podcast episode Sophie Cliff Building you Brand Episode

Recorded Live at The St Bride Foundation in London, on today's special podcast episode I chat to Mr Bingo . Illustrator-turned-Artist and self-described "silly man" Mr Bingo and I talk about building a creative career on your own terms. We chat about the life-changing Kickstarter and his offensive postcards, opening a one-day-a-week shop in London. We chat about making work people genuinely connect with, marketing without the cringe, and why following your own curiosity can lead to the most unexpected opportunities. If you missed out on being in the room for this one I really hope you enjoy it and if you're interested in being there for the next live podcast recording sign up to the waitlist to be the first to hear all about it! The event was sponsored by Adobe Express . I've been working with Adobe for over 5 years now and I use their tools every single day. Adobe Express has become an integral tool that I use as a small business owner and as a branding designer it's brilliant for setting up the branding I create for my clients! If you haven't tried it yet check out this link to give it a ago and I would love to hear how you get on! Key Takeaways Make the work only you can make Mr Bingo's career grew when he stopped trying to fit a conventional creative path and leaned into ideas that were distinctly his. The thing that feels unusual or niche may be exactly what makes people pay attention. Build an audience before you need one Years of sharing work online, staying connected through social media and growing an email list gave Mr Bingo a direct relationship with the people who value his work. That community made it possible to move away from client work and sell directly. Marketing can simply be an invitation Talking regularly about what you have made is not necessarily pushy. When you are genuinely excited about your work, sharing it becomes a way to invite the right people in. Let your values shape your business model By keeping his work accessible, Mr Bingo has made it possible for more people to own it. Success does not have to mean exclusivity; you can build a sustainable business around the kind of access and impact that matters to you. Make room for curiosity and play Many of Mr Bingo's projects begin with a strange thought, a joke or an observation. Following those ideas, rather than only pursuing the most obvious commercial route, keeps the work fresh and creates unexpected possibilities. You do not need to have every answer before you begin From opening a shop to taking a year away from work, Mr Bingo shows that big choices can start with a small experiment. You can learn what works by trying it, noticing what happens and adapting as you go. Creativity needs both effort and rest Taking time away from work did not erase Mr Bingo's drive, but it gave him space to experience life differently. When ideas feel stuck, stepping away and trusting the process can be as valuable as pushing harder. Episode Highlights 00:58 – From freelance illustration to building an audience online 02:30 – The Kickstarter that changed everything: offensive postcards, creative risk and going independent 03:57 – The reality of being a full-time artist: administration, products and running a business 08:01 – The accidental origins and lasting power of the Mr Bingo name 12:32 – Personal projects, following curiosity and making ideas that feel true to you 14:36 – Why Mr Bingo opened a shop in London and runs it just one day a week 19:03 – Taking a year off, travelling without a plan and learning to step away from work 25:15 – Keeping art accessible and building a business outside the traditional art world 28:12 – Public speaking, creative confidence and letting projects grow organically 36:58 – Audience Q&A: creative slumps, marketing, AI and caring less about what others think About The Guest Mr Bingo's website and online shop Mr Bingo on Instagram Mr Bingo's newsletter I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and edited by me, recorded and produced by Kingsbane Studios If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes and a few in person episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

In this solo episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of my second live podcast recording event. I'm sharing what it was really like to sell tickets, coordinate all the moving parts, host two very different guests, and navigate the inevitable last-minute chaos. It was a brilliant night and I'm so proud of how it came together, but there were plenty of lessons along the way too. The event was sponsored by Adobe Express . I've been working with Adobe for over 5 years now and I use their tools every single day. Adobe Express has become an integral tool that I use as a small business owner and as a branding designer it's brilliant for setting up the branding I create for my clients! If you haven't tried it yet check out this link to give it a ago and I would love to hear how you get on! Key Takeaways You can feel nervous and still create something brilliant Selling tickets and putting your name to an event can feel deeply vulnerable, but nerves do not mean you have made the wrong choice. Atmosphere matters more than hitting a perfect number Around 85 people created a room that felt both lively and intimate, proving that the quality of connection matters more than a specific attendance target. Different perspectives can create a stronger conversation Although the guests had very different stories and experiences, their conversations revealed shared themes around creativity, self-doubt and moving through challenges. Good events are built through many small details From ticketing and tech to photography, goodie bags and audience questions, thoughtful planning helps create an experience people remember. Community turns a podcast into something bigger Bringing listeners together transformed what is usually a solitary experience into a warm, collective one—and the audience's encouragement shaped the whole evening. Reflection helps each event become better than the last Every event brings lessons, from allowing enough time for technical set-up and pack-down to choosing tools that make check-in smoother. Progress comes from noticing what worked and refining what did not. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Why I wanted to debrief my second live podcast event while it was still fresh 01:05 – Launching tickets, setting a goal and the emotional reality of selling seats 04:01 – Choosing the venue and inviting two very different guests 06:17 – How the conversations came together through shared human themes 08:35 – Behind the scenes: tech, photography, video, scheduling and logistics 11:37 – The final lead-up: client deadlines, a sick child and finding the energy to host 13:25 – What made the event meaningful: audience connection, goodie bags and lessons for next time I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

Recorded Live at The St Bride Foundation in London, on today's special podcast episode I chat to Ola Pelovangu . Ola is a return guest and was first on the podcast all the way at the beginning for episode 7! She is a full time content creator and (soon to be) mum of 6 and wife. Ola has a background in brand partnerships and media; previously global brand partnerships manager at TikTok and prior to that Head of beauty, fashion and media brand partnerships at global media and entertainment. She has been a full time content creator along side her family aka The Pelo Fam for over 5 years now. This converstation is full of candid insight into what goes into being a full time content creator, facilitating home education for their children and how Ola and her husband Darcy manage their lives together. If you missed out on being in the room for this one I really hope you enjoy it and if you're interested in being there for the next live podcast recording sign up to the waitlist to be the first to hear all about it! The event was sponsored by Adobe Express . I've been working with Adobe for over 5 years now and I use their tools every single day. Adobe Express has become an integral tool that I use as a small business owner and as a branding designer it's brilliant for setting up the branding I create for my clients! If you haven't tried it yet check out this link to give it a ago and I would love to hear how you get on! Key Takeaways Build from what is already true The Pelo family's public presence grew from values and routines already lived at home, rather than creating a persona for social media. A sustainable brand does not require you to perform; it can be an extension of who you already are. Let values guide your decisions Kindness, responsibility and effort shape how the family works together, makes content and approaches opportunities. Clear values make it easier to grow without losing sight of what matters. Create with people, not just around them The Pelo Fam's product development includes the children's ideas and gives them visibility of the business behind it, including profit and planning. Meaningful collaboration helps everyone feel ownership and learn along the way. Listen for ideas already gaining momentum Pelo Pac grew from a practical solution the family had used for years and a recurring response from their audience. Paying attention to the problems people repeatedly mention can reveal an opportunity worth developing. Make room for individuality within community Being part of a close family or team does not mean everyone has to be heard in the same way. Solo time, check-ins and one-to-one conversations can protect each person's voice. Intentionality is a daily practice From financial literacy to family check-ins, the conversation shows that long-term impact comes from small, considered choices repeated consistently—not from getting everything perfect at once. Episode Highlights 02:07 – Ola Pelovangu's career journey: from brand partnerships and TikTok to full-time family content creation 06:03 – The reality of creating content alongside homeschooling and raising a large family 07:52 – Involving children in content with intention, consent and long-term care in mind 10:46 – Building a family-led brand from values already lived at home 12:05 – The story behind Pelo Pac: turning a practical family packing system into a product 15:10 – Making space for each child's individuality within a busy family business 18:13 – Sharing difficult experiences online with purpose, practical support and boundaries 35:24 – Audience Q&A begins: Liz opens the floor for questions, with Hannah bringing over the roving microphone. 35:45 – How loss reshaped Ola's approach to risk, legacy and living intentionally Mentioned in the Episode The Pelo Pac; a door-hanging family organisation system with 22 compartments. https://pelopackit.com/ I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and edited by me, recorded and produced by Kingsbane Studios If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes and a few in person episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

In this episode, I chat about how my definition of success has changed over time. I used to think that chasing other people's goals would be my idea of success but then I realised I needed to find out what truly matters to me. I share the lessons I've learned about contentment, ambition, and building a life and business that feel right for me. I hope this encourages you to define success on your own terms. Episode Highlights 00:00:30 – Rethinking success: how my perspective has changed over time 00:03:00 – Letting go of other people's goals and finding my own definition 00:06:00 – Balancing ambition, family, and lifestyle choices 00:09:00 – Celebrating contentment, everyday wins, and modeling success for my kids 00:12:00 – Embracing bravery, growth, and inviting listeners to reflect on their own version of success Key Takeaways Define Success for Yourself Don't let others' expectations dictate your goals; find what truly matters to you. Contentment is Powerful Success isn't just about big achievements; it's about feeling proud and satisfied with your journey. Balance Ambition with Joy It's okay to want more, but remember to enjoy what you have and celebrate the small wins. Bravery is Success Pushing yourself to try new things and step outside your comfort zone is a win in itself. Your Version of Success Will Evolve Allow your definition of success to change as you grow and your life circumstances shift. I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

Today on the podcast, I'm chatting with Dominique van Werkhoven about the deep identity work that comes hand-in-hand with building a personal brand . Dominique shares her non-linear career path, from studying law to living in France, working in international development, running nonprofits, and eventually co-founding her web copywriting and development business, The Werks, with her husband in Austria and the Netherlands . We talk about the complexities of building a brand across cultures and languages, navigating multiple career identity shifts, shutting out external opinions, and why showing up fully as yourself is the ultimate key to attracting the right clients . Key Takeaways Identity Drives Action: How you view yourself directly dictates the risks you take and the actions you pursue in your business . True Belonging Requires Authenticity: Hiding unique parts of your background or personality to "fit in" deprives you of genuine connection; those exact traits might be what draw your ideal clients in . Navigating Multi-Cultural Branding: Building an international brand requires finding a common communication language while providing helpful context for cultural nuances and colloquialisms . Embracing Career Identity Shifts: Transitioning between sectors (like moving from non-profit work to entrepreneurship) requires intentional mindset shifts to value your time and price your services confidently . Visibility Creates Evidence for Others: Showing up authentically provides crucial representation and evidence to others that success is possible for people with similar backgrounds . Episode Highlights 00:58 - Dominique's journey: moving internationally four times, raising three boys, and co-founding The Werks. 07:22 - Navigating the identity and mindset shifts required when transitioning from the non-profit sector to commercial business . 20:56 - Why hiding parts of your identity to fit in prevents true belonging and connection . 26:55 - Managing visibility, setting personal boundaries online, and navigating the risks of public exposure. 36:25 - The practical challenges and rewards of building an international brand across languages and cultural communication styles . About the Guest Dominique van Werkhoven is a copywriter and co-founder of The Werks, a studio she runs with her husband offering website development and copywriting for small businesses and freelancers . Website: thewerks.nl Instagram: @thewerks.nl I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

In this episode, I share the story of my early career; navigating internships, first jobs, and the uncertainty that comes with starting out in the creative industry. I hope my journey encourages you to embrace the unknown and trust that every step, even the messy ones, can lead to something meaningful. Episode Highlights 00:00:10 – Leaving university and facing the job market 00:03:10 – My first internship and what I learned 00:06:45 – Taking on freelance projects and building confidence 00:10:20 – Landing my first full-time role 00:13:30 – Reflecting on early lessons and growth Key Takeaways Embrace Uncertainty The early stages of your career are full of unknowns; lean into them and trust the process. Every Experience Counts Internships, side projects, and even setbacks all contribute to your growth and skillset. Say Yes to Opportunities Taking on new challenges, even when you feel unprepared, can open doors you never expected. Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone The moments that feel the scariest often lead to the most valuable lessons. Reflect and Celebrate Progress Take time to look back and appreciate how far you've come, even if you're still figuring things out. I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

Today on the podcast, I'm chatting with photographer and podcast host Victoria Phipps, who also happens to be a previous client of mine! Victoria shares her journey from starting out as a self-taught wedding photographer in 2009 to navigating major career pivots, becoming a mum of two, launching her podcast Mum Means Business , and expanding into online courses and personal branding photography . We dive deep into the messy reality of running multiple business fractions, letting go of rigid perfectionism, using AI to organize complex ideas into a design brief, and how investing in a cohesive visual identity completely changes how confidently you show up in your business . Key Takeaways Authentic Branding Builds Real Confidence: A cohesive visual identity is so much more than colours and fonts; it provides the grounding and confidence you need to put yourself out there and take new leaps . Using AI as a Practical Structuring Tool: AI can be an incredible sounding board to help turn a brain dump into a clear, structured creative brief without losing your own voice or opinions . Consistency Flourishes from Joy: It is infinitely easier to stay consistent with projects that bring you genuine joy rather than simply checking off boxes of what you "should" be doing . Over-Communication Elevates the Client Experience: Being proactive, setting clear expectations, and adding thoughtful touches build deep trust and long-lasting professional relationships . Embracing the "Messy Middle": You don't always have to force yourself into a single, narrow niche; unifying your distinct business offerings under one cohesive visual language allows all your passions to thrive together . Episode Highlights 02:00 – Victoria's evolution from wedding photography to navigating COVID, motherhood, and business pivots. 06:15 – Launching the Mum Means Business podcast to connect with other female founders balancing ambition and family. 09:10 – Resisting the pressure to niche down and learning to bridge different business "fractions." 26:15 – How Victoria used Claude AI to dictate and structure a comprehensive creative brief for her rebrand. 33:00 – What makes an unforgettable client experience: communication, clear steps, and thoughtful details. 40:00 – Finding the visual thread that weaves distinct business strands together. 43:15 – How a brand identity that brings you joy transforms your confidence and how you market yourself. About the Guest Victoria Phipps is a UK-based photographer, host of the Mum Means Business podcast, and creator of the Print Over Pixels course for photographers . Website: mummeansbusinesspodcast.com Instagram: @mummeansbusinesspodcast | @victoriaphipps_mbe Mentioned in the Episode Events & Concepts: Atomic Con (aff link) Software & Tools: Claude AI , Canva , Adobe Express (Aff link) I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

I've been having a think about the sort of content I want to create at the moment and 'positive' and 'up lifting' was what was requested when I asked my followers on instagram. The news from the design industry and the world in general has been very negative recently. While I was researching what I could talk about I came across this really interesting effect called 'The Curb Cut Effect'. It's all about how solving a problem for a smaller group of people who have a specific accessibility need actually helps everyone. In this episode I chat through the effect and how it got it's name and also give other examples, and ideas of how you could use this improve your own brand and it's accessibility. Key Takeaways 1. Designing for the edges lifts the middle. Every time someone has built for a group that was being left out, the whole world has quietly benefited. Your business is no different; the change you make for one person rarely stops with them. 2. Small, imperfect steps still count. You won't get accessibility right first time, and you don't have to. Alt text, better colour contrast, left-aligned copy; these are afternoon jobs, not year-long projects. Start where you are. 3. If it's hard work to read, it's hard work to buy. A brain that has to strain will give up, and it won't even know why. Make it easy to read, easy to follow, easy to purchase - and you stop losing people you never knew you'd lost. 4. Do it because it's right, and let it pay you back anyway. Accessibility is the rare decision where doing the decent thing and doing the smart thing point in exactly the same direction. You don't have to choose. Episode Highlights 00:00: Where this episode came from: an Instagram story asking what people wanted, and the repeated request for something positive in a design industry that's feeling bleak 01:13: The kerb cut effect explained: 1970s activists with sledgehammers and cement, building ramps at night so wheelchair users could cross the road independently 02:47: Closed captions, voice assistants and automatic doors: how a fix designed for one group quietly ends up serving everybody 04:21: Why accessibility gets shelved by small business owners, and the commercial and legal case for stopping putting it off 05:34: The centred text problem: why the brain can't find the next line, gives up without realising it, and what that means for your emails and website 08:13: The question to take away: what have you been holding off fixing because you assumed it would only help a handful of people? I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

Your business evolves over time, so why shouldn't your branding? In this episode of Building Your Brand , I chat with brand designer and self-styled "brand chef" Aiza Cheung of Studio Coya. We dive deep into why small business owners and service providers should stop flattening their services into generic lists and instead embrace the power of branding their signature offers. Aiza breaks down her signature food analogies to explain how your business brand acts as the restaurant, while your signature offer is that one distinctive dish everyone comes back for. We also talk about the brilliant concept of "themed branding," using pattern disruptions, and how you can steal clever campaign strategies from corporate giants to stand out in your own industry. Key Takeaways The Restaurant vs. The Signature Dish : Your overarching business brand is there to nurture your audience and build general trust . Your signature offer branding is the entry point that shows clients exactly what specific solution you provide. Pattern Disruption via Campaigns : Consistency builds trust, but audiences can become blind to the same visuals over time. Launching a dedicated campaign or signature offer provides a temporary window to play with new visual elements to peak curiosity. Theming Grounds Your Messaging : Choosing an anchor or theme (like Aiza's food concept or Rachel Emma Wearing's space aesthetic) makes it exponentially easier to write copy, devise analogies, and feel creatively aligned. Borrow from Other Industries : Instead of mimicking direct competitors, look outside your niche. Aiza looks to product-based food brands and hospitality to discover fresh ways to market online services. Strategic Disruption vs. Trust : Standing out with an unusual industry colour palette is highly effective, but you must ensure your visual pattern disruption doesn't undermine the core trust required for your profession. Episode Highlights 01:45 : Aiza's journey from a linear design career to handling an unexpected redundancy that pushed her into running her studio 04:20 : What exactly defines a signature offer and how service providers can apply the SaaS model to their programs 08:35 : Pulling visual levers: Deciding how visually similar or distinct a sub-brand should be from your main parent brand 18:25 : How Aiza stumbled across her food theme by mistake and how it transformed into her biggest marketing asset 20:15 : Designing a theme that isn't loud: The story of The Two Lauras and their internal "comfy jumper and jeans" anchor 28:30 : Why it is okay to play with visual trends in short-term marketing blocks rather than a permanent rebrand About the Guest Aiza Cheung is a brand designer, strategist, and the founder of Studio Coya . Known as the "brand chef," she helps online service-based businesses differentiate their primary brands and structure unique visual worlds around their signature offers. Website : studiocoya.com Instagram : @studiocoya Podcast : Nourish Your Brand Aiza's Free Theming Masterclass I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

I've got a lot coming up in the final few months of the year, so in this episode I'm sharing what I'm looking forward to, what's making me nervous and what I still have capacity to add in. I love the variety of the work I do so am excited that I have some great clients, my own event, speaking at other peoples events and few other things in between to keep things interesting. If you would like to join me for the live Building Your Brand podcast event in London use the code EARLYBIRD and get your ticket here: Building Your Brand Live podcast event To sign up for Adobe MAX Miami (you can sign up to watch online for free if you can't make it in person) head here: Adobe MAX Miami Episode Highlights 00:10 – Kicking off Q4: personal and business reflections 02:30 – Preparing for major speaking events and managing nerves 05:00 – Achieving milestones and celebrating progress 08:00 – Looking ahead: new opportunities and future plans 11:00 – Inviting connections, collaborations, and new clients Key Takeaways Celebrate Your Milestones Recognize and honour the big achievements on your journey; they're proof of your growth and dedication. Growth Comes with Nerves Embracing new challenges often means stepping outside your comfort zone, but that's where real progress happens. Balance Ambition with Self-Care Pursue your goals, but remember to protect your time and energy so you can enjoy the journey. Stay Open to Connection Building relationships and sharing your expertise can lead to exciting new opportunities and collaborations. I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

Today on the podcast, I'm chatting with Suz Chadwick, an expert who is brilliant at helping business owners navigate their personal branding. One of the things I love about these conversations is when unexpected themes and patterns appear. In this chat, we focus heavily on the importance of aligning your goals and your "why" when you are intentionally building a personal brand. We debate if everyone actually needs a personal brand, what the process of growing one looks like in practice, and the uncomfortable parts of running a business that people rarely talk about. Suz shares incredibly helpful frameworks, including her "sandwich" concept, to help you figure out exactly where you want to go. If you need clarity and a confidence boost this is the episode for you! Key Takeaways Your Personal Brand is Your Reputation : At its simplest, your personal brand is just your reputation and the very first thing people think about when your name comes up. Building one is about intentionally crafting that image in a way that feels natural and entirely true to who you are. The Strategic Brand Sandwich : Suz shares her framework for evaluating your business and brand alignment. It requires balancing three core elements: your professional expertise, your personal values, and your overarching mission. Entrepreneurship is Often Oversold : The 'glamorous' side of running a business and the day to day reality which, often, involves living in discomfort. Intention Drives Content : You don't need to post everything on social media to have a strong personal brand! Accepting Continuous Learning : Business success is not a fixed destination where everything remains perfect. It's an ongoing journey of adjusting your strategies, learning new skills, and evolving alongside your industry. Episode Highlights 01:12 : Defining a personal brand as a natural, intentional extension of your reputation. 08:45 : Why entrepreneurship is frequently glamorised and the parts of the journey we do not talk about enough. 15:30 : A deep dive into the "sandwich" framework to clarify your professional, personal, and mission goals. 24:10 : How to set healthy boundaries between what is public, what is personal, and what stays private. 33:15 : Overcoming the fear of visibility and stepping out from behind your business logo. 40:55 : Embracing the discomfort of running a business in a constantly shifting market. About the Guest Suz Chadwick is a brand consultant, business coach, and speaker who helps entrepreneurs build powerful personal brands and profitable businesses. She is also the host of the Brand Builders Lab podcast. Website : suzchadwick.com Instagram : @suzchadwick Podcast : Brand Builders Lab End Credits I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

After a summer break I'm back with my solo episodes. In today's episode I reflect on my month-long challenge of sharing my work online every day. I chat about the vulnerability, confidence struggles, and the surprising lessons I learned along the way. If you've ever hesitated to put yourself out there or worried about what others might think, I hope my story encourages you to take that leap and embrace the growth that comes from showing up consistently. Key Takeways Consistency Builds Confidence Showing up every day, even when it feels uncomfortable, is the fastest way to grow your self-belief and creative skills. Vulnerability is a Strength Sharing your work openly, flaws and all, can be scary, but it's also the key to authentic connection and personal growth. Let Go of Perfectionism Progress matters more than perfection. Each post is a step forward, not a final destination. Your Work Matters You never know who you might inspire or encourage by sharing your journey, even if it feels small or imperfect. Reflection Fuels Growth Taking time to look back on your creative process helps you see how far you've come and what you want to try next. Episode Highlights 00:04 – Why I started a daily sharing challenge and what I hoped to learn 02:15 – The emotional rollercoaster: vulnerability, fear, and unexpected support 05:30 – Lessons in consistency, confidence, and letting go of perfection 08:10 – The impact of sharing: feedback, connection, and creative breakthroughs 10:45 – Reflecting on the journey and advice for anyone wanting to share more I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written, recorded and produced by me If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

This week I'm joined by my good friend and long-time collaborator Matt Joyce, an illustrator and mural artist based in Cardiff whose work brings brands to life in bold, playful ways. We dig into how illustration can elevate branding and marketing for independent businesses, why having a distinct style attracts the right clients, and how illustration can communicate values, culture and personality in a way words sometimes can't. We also get into the big topic of the moment; AI and how it's shaping (and not shaping) the creative industry. Plus, Matt shares his process, and how he does and doesn't market himself. Whether you're a business owner, creative, or just curious about the art behind the visuals, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration. Key Takeaways Your Path Can Evolve Matt's journey from agency designer to full-time illustrator shows that it's never too late to pivot and follow your creative passions. Authenticity Builds Strong Brands Infusing personal touches and storytelling into your visuals makes brands more memorable and meaningful. Embrace Your Unique Style Finding and refining your own style helps clients know what to expect; and makes your work stand out in a crowded market. Community Fuels Growth Word of mouth, collaboration, and showing up at creative events are powerful ways to build a sustainable freelance career. Balance Consistency and Evolution Your style and process will naturally evolve; embrace change while staying true to your core strengths. Storytelling Through Illustration Thoughtful, bespoke visuals can communicate brand values and connect with audiences on a deeper level. AI is a Tool, Not a Replacement While AI is changing the creative landscape, Matt believes the human touch and creative intuition remain irreplaceable. Celebrate the Wins, Big and Small From dream clients to seeing your work in the wild, take time to acknowledge your achievements before moving on to the next goal. Episode Highlights 01:07 – Matt's creative journey: from design for media to illustration and murals 02:49 – Transitioning from agency work to freelance and building a career in illustration 07:22 – Developing a signature style, client expectations, and the evolution of personal style 08:35 – The importance of authenticity and balancing niche with versatility 17:42 – Storytelling through illustration: adding personal touches and building brand worlds 38:24 – Repurposing creative assets and working smarter, not harder 38:57 – The impact of AI on illustration, contracts, and client relationships 40:09 – Client attitudes toward AI, copyright, and adapting to industry changes About The Guest Matt Joyce on Instagram Matt Joyce Portfolio I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and edited by me, recorded and produced at Kingsbane Studios If you like to watch your podcasts you can watch all of my solo episodes and a few intewview episodes including this one on YouTube. If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

Over the Summer I've curated a mini series of some of my favourite episodes from the podcast so far. We revisit old episodes that have stayed rent-free in my brain! So whether this episode ends up being new for you or you get to enjoy it again years later, I hope you find it helpful. In this episode, I chat with the incredibly talented illustrator Kyle T Webster about the power of being a generalist, building a creative career, and the value of authentic relationships. Kyle's journey; from experimenting with different creative paths to selling his company to Adobe; offers so many lessons for anyone navigating the ups and downs of creative business. I left this conversation feeling energized and inspired, and I hope you do too. Key Takeaways Embrace Being a Generalist You don't have to niche down to succeed; exploring different styles and skills can open unexpected doors and keep your work exciting. See Everything as an Experiment Treat your creative journey as a series of experiments. Success and failure are both valuable teachers, and trying new things leads to growth. Build Genuine Relationships Opportunities often come from authentic connections, not just networking for the sake of it. Be yourself and nurture real friendships in your industry. Redefine Success on Your Terms Success isn't always a straight line. Stay curious, keep learning, and let your own values guide your path. Persevere Through Rejection Every creative faces setbacks; what matters is getting back up, learning from criticism, and continuing to move forward. Stay Open to Unexpected Paths Sometimes the most rewarding opportunities come from zigzagging journeys and saying yes to new adventures. Episode Highlight 01:44 – How Kyle's zigzag career path led to Adobe and creative freedom 03:37 – The value of being a generalist vs. niching down 06:03 – Social media, style, and the myth of the "one true niche" 10:17 – Boredom, experimentation, and keeping creativity alive 12:28 – Learning from failure and treating everything as an experiment 19:25 – The power of authentic relationships and unexpected opportunities 21:06 – Stories of career breakthroughs and saying yes to new experiences 50:09 – Kyle's current projects, future dreams, and final inspiration Referenced in the episode: Sign up for Kyle's newsletter The Accidental Expert Kyle's website Instagram I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @‌lizmmosley or @‌buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!