Podtalk - Craig Constantine

In a recent insightful episode of Podtalk, host Craig Constantine welcomes Robin Waite—business coach, author, and host of the Fearless Business Podcast—for a deep dive into how intentional relationship-building, generous networking, and well-sized asks can radically transform a business.

Robin’s journey from social media burnout to attracting thousands of leads by simply showing up, helping out, and asking smartly is not only compelling but replicable. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from their conversation.

Craig Constantine is a curious explorer of ideas whose life and work are defined by three powerful words: Discovery, Reflection, Efficacy. Best known for his influential presence in the podcasting space, Craig has published nearly 2,000 podcast episodes, interviewed hundreds of guests, and helped thousands launch their own shows through coaching and community. 

What We Discussed on Podtalk

1. Be intentional with relationships: Start by identifying 10 people or brands you’d genuinely love to work with and align your actions around that list.
2. Show up in the right places: Nothing beats in-person interaction. Sit in the front row, attend live events, and be ready to engage directly.
3. Give value without expectation: Offer your help generously, without expecting anything in return. People remember those who contribute meaningfully.
4. Have a right-sized ask: When opportunities arise, make small, thoughtful requests that feel natural, not entitled or transactional.
5. Build trust with their team: Sometimes the path to your dream collaboration is through the people around your target, not the person themselves.
6. Use the silver platter principle: Whether it’s a thoughtful gift, a referral, or even hiring a yacht—find ways to create memorable, value-rich moments.
7. Momentum comes from doing, not planning: Robin’s success wasn’t from grand strategies but consistent, aligned action over months of focused effort.

Rethinking the Podcasting and Marketing Game

Why Traditional Marketing Wasn’t Working

Robin described the fatigue he experienced in late 2022 after spending 25–30 hours a week on content creation and social media for his coaching business—only to see lacklustre results.

Typical tasks that led to burnout included:

• Endless blog writing and content production
• Daily social media engagement
• Following advice from "marketing gurus"

His conclusion? Marketing should be fun, not a grind.

The Spark: Starting with Intentionality

Step 1: Be Intentional

Robin’s turning point came on 1 January 2023, when he decided to reverse-engineer his marketing. Instead of pushing out content, he listed 10 people and brands he admired and wanted to partner with.

Criteria for his dream list:

• Shared values and audience overlap
• Inspirational content and messaging
• People he simply wanted to hang out with

Examples from his list:

• Chris Do (The Futur)
• Ali Abdaal
• Daniel Priestley

Step 2: Show Up Physically—Front Row, Not Back Row

Attending events in person proved to be a game-changer. Robin emphasised the power of proximity and energy in forming meaningful connections.

Pro Tips:

• Always sit in the front row
• Engage with speakers after their talk
• Give a small, memorable gift (e.g. a signed book)

Step 3: Add Value First, Always

One of Robin's standout moments came at an Ali Abdaal event, where he started helping lost attendees find their way—even though he was just a guest.

The result?
He was noticed by Ali’s MD, Angus, and later invited to advise the team on pricing strategy.

Why This Works:

• Non-transactional giving builds goodwill
• People remember authentic helpfulness
• It creates trust without expectation

Step 4: Find Your “Inside Person”

Knowing someone on the team often matters more than knowing the CEO. Robin formed a relationship with Ali’s team, which later led to his appearance on Ali’s podcast.

How it played out:

• He asked to be on the podcast “subs bench” in case a guest cancelled.
• One did, and he got the slot.

This simple ask resulted in:

• Over 3,000 inquiries
• More than $300,000 in business
• A game-changing new audience

Step 5: Bring the Silver Platter

Sometimes, it's worth going the extra mile—literally and figuratively. Robin shares his story of chartering a yacht in Dubai to thank Chris Do for a speaking opportunity.

Other Silver Platter Examples:

• Paying for someone's event membership
• Referring a client or partnership
• Giving a meaningful, thoughtful gift

Why it matters:

• These gestures build unforgettable moments
• People are more likely to reciprocate
• It fosters genuine, long-term partnerships

Coaching the Model: Can Anyone Do This?

Robin now teaches this five-step framework to his coaching clients. He stresses the need for:

• Belief: You deserve to sit at the table
• Patience: The long game matters
• Presence: Always be ready to give more than you ask

Summary: The 5-Step Framework to Create Momentum

1. Be Intentional: List the 10 people or brands you want to align with.
2. Get in the Room: Show up in person and sit in the front row.
3. Be Helpful: Offer value with no strings attached.
4. Find the Inside Person: Build relationships with the team, not just the face.
5. Use the Silver Platter: When appropriate, give memorably—gifts, referrals, time.

Final Thoughts: The Power of the Right-Sized Ask

Robin's journey is a masterclass in generosity, intentionality, and aligned action. His story reminds us that great opportunities often come not from asking for everything—but from asking for just enough at the right time.