In this episode, host Michael Coombs talks with Sean Low, the founder and president of the Business of Being Creative. They discuss the importance of emotional connection, value, and alignment in running creative businesses. Sean emphasizes the pitfalls of using packages in luxury and creative businesses, advocating for a focus on personalized value instead. He explains how businesses can pivot from package-based models to valuing their unique talents and how to effectively structure pricing and contracts. Sean also touches on the significance of intellectual property provisions and the necessity of aligning business operations with creative goals. The conversation concludes with insights into the shifting landscape of creative industries and the importance of faith in one’s work.

00:00 Introduction and Importance of Emotional Connection
00:19 Guest Introduction: Sean Low
00:45 The Problem with Packages in Creative Businesses
01:37 Moving Beyond Packages: Defining Your Value
04:24 Revenue Goals and Business Strategy
07:17 Maximizing Value in Creative Work
12:45 Percentage vs. Flat Fees
18:23 Essential Contract Clauses for Creatives
26:33 Looking Ahead: Trends for 2026
30:28 Personal Philosophies and Closing Remarks