In this reflective episode, Karine shares a personal story about being declined a speaking opportunity due to overlapping messaging and uses it as a jumping-off point to explore a deeper truth: the fear of collaboration. If you’ve ever worried that working with others will water down your message or steal your spotlight, this one’s for you. Karine unpacks how that fear holds us back, why aligned collaboration can actually amplify your voice, and how to discern the difference between protecting your work and isolating yourself. This episode is an invitation to take the fear of collaboration off your plate and start building bigger, bolder, more connected things.

Takeaways:

• Fear of collaboration often stems from the belief that others’ success threatens our own.
• Saying no out of fear — rather than discernment — keeps us isolated and stuck.
• Aligned partnerships don’t dilute your message; they strengthen it.
• Not every opportunity is the right fit, but fear should never be the deciding factor.
• Collaboration can sharpen your voice, expand your reach, and deepen your impact.
• You are not your niche — your value isn’t diminished by being near someone with similar ideas.
• The right partnerships don’t compete — they co-create.