From sceptic to super-connector: what happens when someone, who once dismissed networking as a "waste of time", becomes one of its biggest champions? In this episode of New Business in Later Life, Ildikó Sealey sits down with David Brock - known as "Brock" - the founder of Your Partnerships, one of the UK's fastest-growing business networking communities. Discover how a simple idea in Cornwall evolved into a nationwide network, and gain insights into the mindset shifts, habits, and philosophies that drive meaningful connections and business growth.

   KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Networking as a Tool for Growth: Building connections through networking can significantly enhance personal and professional growth. The importance of networking is emphasised as a powerful tool that can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.
• Embracing Change and Adaptability: The conversation highlights the necessity of adapting to change, particularly in the context of evolving business landscapes and technologies, like AI. Being open to new ideas and willing to pivot is crucial for success.
• Mental Health and Self-Care: Prioritizing mental health through routines such as meditation and setting aside time for self-care is essential for maintaining productivity and well-being. Taking breaks and rewarding oneself can lead to better performance in business.
• The Value of Ideas and Reflection: Keeping an ideas book allows for the documentation and reflection of thoughts, which can lead to innovation. Reviewing past ideas can help identify what works and what doesn’t, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Community and Support Systems: Building a supportive community, whether through networking or personal relationships, can provide encouragement and motivation. Having a team of advisors or mentors can help navigate challenges and enhance decision-making.

   BEST MOMENTS
Brock: "I thought networking was a waste of time. My passion is to teach more people about why networking is important."

Ildiko: "I actually started running it exactly the same way as you mentioned. I went along to the Exeter one and thought, oh my goodness, this is amazing, we need to have one of these events in Plymouth."

Brock: "If I think something's a bad idea, it must be a good idea."

Brock: "I make friends for a living. It's just taking care of people."

   HOST BIO

Ildikó Sealey, the host of New Business in Later Life is also the founder of the Routine Club, helping Encorepreneurs build healthier, happier, wealthier lives and businesses.

A Routine Mentor, public speaker, property entrepreneur, and networking host, Ildikó champions the power of daily wellbeing habits - physical, mental, spiritual, and intellectual - as fuel for business success in later life.

With a background in social housing, creative practices, education and property business, she now mentors ambitious founders stepping into their next chapter with purpose and energy. Through her podcast, events, and group programmes, Ildikó proves that thriving doesn’t retire.

  CONTACTS

Host contacts:

My gift to you: my recommendation of services I use to save me time, money and enhance my life and business are on my contact page: https://www.encorepreneurs.club/contact-us/

Follow and get involved with the community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560556532561 

Guest contacts: 

If you wish to get involved with this ever growing network either as an ambassador or an attendee, check out the website: https://www.yourpartnerships.co.uk/ 

If it's Brock you would like to connect with, his link is https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourpartnerships/ 

Producer contact:

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/