Episode 36

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Published on:

8th Jul 2025

Partnerships That Work: How to Build Creative Collaborations That Last

Partnering with another creative can open doors — but it can also bring drama if you’re not prepared. From clashing visions to financial headaches, not all partnerships are built to last. So, how do you protect yourself and give your collaboration the best chance of success?


In this episode:

“Partnerships That Work: How to Build Creative Collaborations That Last”

We walk through the key ingredients of a successful creative partnership — from shared values and clear communication to choosing the right legal structure. Whether you're thinking of teaming up with a friend, fellow freelancer, or forming a new business altogether, this episode will give you the tools to avoid common pitfalls and start strong.

With decades of experience supporting partnerships across the creative sector, I break down the practical steps you need to take before you shake hands and sign anything. Because great partnerships don’t happen by accident — they’re built with care.


Timestamped Summary:

[00:00:00] – Why partnerships are powerful — and risky

[00:01:00] – How the right partner can fuel your creativity and growth

[00:02:14] – Shared values: why they matter more than you think

[00:03:28] – Proven track record: how to assess someone’s reliability

[00:04:00] – Do a mini project first — test the waters before going all in

[00:04:41] – Complimentary skills vs. duplication: avoid stepping on toes

[00:05:00] – Define roles clearly and put it in writing — always

[00:06:34] – Choosing the right legal structure for your partnership

[00:07:40] – Have the hard conversations — money, exit plans, disputes

[00:08:35] – Friends in business: how to separate personal from professional

[00:09:23] – Why a written partnership agreement is non-negotiable

[00:10:46] – Planning for the “what ifs”: future-proof your partnership

[00:11:44] – Recap: what makes creative partnerships actually work

[00:12:00] – Taking a short podcast break — and how to stay connected


Thinking of launching a business with someone? Make this your checklist before you commit. Share it with a creative partner who needs to hear this.


If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love it if you could subscribe on Apple Podcasts — and leave a quick review. It really helps more people find these practical creative business tips.

Don’t forget to check out our website for free tools, resources, and support to help you grow a sustainable creative business.

Plan it. Do it. Profit.


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About the Podcast

From Creative Passion To Profit
From Creative Passion To Profit: the podcast dedicated to empowering individual artists and creatives with the financial and business knowhow needed to thrive
In the creative world, passion and talent are essential. But understanding the business side is fundamental for sustained success. "From Creative Passion To Profit" bridges the gap between creativity and commerce, providing you with the tools to manage your finances, develop marketing strategies, and grow your entrepreneurial mindset.
By focusing on practical financial and business advice, specifically for individual artists and creatives, this podcast will provide valuable and focused support.
Each episode delves into topics such as crafting a winning business plan, demystifying taxes, pricing your work confidently, and overcoming the starving artist mentality. Our goal is to equip you with actionable insights to make informed decisions, ensuring your creative practice not only survives but flourishes.
Join us as we explore the intersection of art and business, helping you turn your passion into a profitable and fulfilling career. Subscribe today and take the first step towards mastering your creative enterprise with From Creative Passion To Profit!

About your host

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Mahmood Reza

Hi, my name is Mahmood, accountant, educator and author of the book, I Hate Numbers !!
I actually love numbers and what they can do for my business – and every business - but I come across so many people who have a real fear of numbers/maths/accounts (and accountants), and therefore, their business struggles to survive, never mind thrive. If only they knew how to get a fondness and some kind of control of those numbers!
Why am I so passionate about all of this stuff I’m putting out into the public domain? It’s my belief that once you understand what your numbers are, where they come from, and what they mean, you can use them to make better decisions and ultimately make (or keep) more money. What every business owner wants, right?
The one thing I’ll always guarantee you, is that whether you’re the CEO of a global corporation, or a market stall trader in your local town, your numbers matter – and you simply can’t get away from them. This book is your chance to get them all in one place, face your fears, and start making those numbers work for you.