In this episode, we’re cutting through the noise of running a micro or small business.
Ann Hawkins, founder of Drive, the Collaborative Network, joins us to share advice on simplifying the chaos and finding success by working together.
Ann believes running a business doesn’t have to be a lonely grind—collaborating with the right people can be clear, focused, and rewarding.
We cover everything from nailing down your personal 'why' to setting practical goals and how the right resources and skills can further your business without burning you out.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by running your own business, Ann’s insights will remind you that it doesn’t have to be complicated.
More importantly, collaboration—even with competitors—might be the best-kept secret to thriving in the coworking world.
Ann’s 'Work Smart, Not Hard' Checklist gets a spotlight here.
It offers sharp, actionable steps for anyone who wants to run a business without losing their mind.
Plus, we explore how partnerships within the coworking community can propel your business forward in unexpected and powerful ways.
Timeline Summary:
[00:33] – Meet Ann Hawkins, small business success and collaboration champion.
[01:45] – Why teaming up with your competitors can be a game-changer.
[03:03] – The importance of learning from others to avoid isolation in business.
[05:36] – Ann’s 'Work Smart, Not Hard' checklist kicks off with understanding your personal 'why'—the core reason that keeps you motivated in business, especially on tough days.
"So the first one is to have a very clear vision of why you're doing it, and this isn't the Simon Sinek thinking everybody needs to understand my why
They really don't care, but what you need to do is you need to understand your why..."[07:00] – No need for a grand business vision—sometimes, simple goals are what you need to stay grounded.
[10:52] – How a strong driving need keeps you focused and steers you clear of distractions.
[12:56] – Why outsourcing and collaboration are the antidotes to skill gaps and overwhelm.
[19:02] – How time and money are the real game-changers for sustaining your business.
[26:12] – The role of a flexible plan and how consistent action leads to long-term success.
[33:50] – How building a supportive community and collaborating with others keeps you accountable.
[40:38] – Creative community-building with Ann’s Drive network and groups like The Neotists.
Episode Breakdown:
Ann Hawkins cuts through the fluff with her six steps to small business success, starting with understanding your personal ‘why.’
It’s not about selling your purpose to the world but knowing precisely what drives you, especially when it gets tricky.
It could be as simple as wanting more control over your life, financial security, or finding work that truly matters to you.
From there, Ann makes it clear: you’ve got to have a genuine need driving your business.
Whether making enough to live well or doing work that aligns with your values, this need keeps you going.
We explore how outsourcing and working alongside others can fill skill gaps that otherwise leave people feeling stuck.
Ann is about strategic simplicity—handling time, money, and resources without overcomplicating things.
She advocates starting small, ideally alongside another job, to build financial stability before taking the full plunge.
Her advice on pricing confidently is a sharp reminder to never undervalue your work, even when you’re just starting.
One of the most potent takeaways is Ann’s emphasis on collaboration. In coworking, competition is often overrated.
Seeing each other as collaborators rather than competitors opens up growth opportunities you didn’t see coming.
It’s the core philosophy behind her Drive network, which is why it’s been such a game-changer for small business owners.
Finally, Ann reinforces the power of consistency.
Keep showing up and sharing what you do, even on the rough days.
You never know when someone will be ready to work with you, but they’ll only know about you if you keep getting yourself out there.
Links & Resources:
Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
Connect with Ann on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
Community is the Key: Working Smarter with Ann Hawkins