Podcast Summary: This Can't Be That Hard - Episode 290: The Power of Community with Kim Box

Introduction and Host's Perspective [00:00–04:21]

In the opening segment, host Annemie Tonken shares a personal glimpse into her recording environment, humorously describing her son's former bedroom now transformed into her podcast studio. Despite the solitary setting, Annemie emphasizes the profound connection she feels with her global audience of photographers. She reflects on the challenges of running a creative business, highlighting the importance of building a supportive community. Annemie states, “It really just warms me from the inside out. It makes me feel like part of something bigger” (00:02).

Guest Introduction: Kim Box's Journey [04:21–08:15]

Annemie welcomes Kim Box, the founder of the Motherhood Anthology, to the podcast. Kim shares her extensive experience in the photography industry, spanning over two decades. She recounts her humble beginnings as a wedding photographer and the evolution of her career alongside her business partner, Josh Moats. Kim explains how their early adoption of digital photography set them apart in a town dominated by traditional film photographers. Over time, this venture expanded into Indie Film Lab and Indie Print Co., eventually leading to the creation of the Motherhood Anthology seven years ago. Kim remarks, “I think we have a really supportive group of people” (05:59), showcasing her commitment to fostering a nurturing community.

Filling a Gap: The Need for Authentic Community [08:15–12:00]

Annemie and Kim delve into the genesis of the Motherhood Anthology community. Kim identifies a significant gap in existing photography conferences and workshops— the lack of honest discussions about pricing and business strategies. She highlights the value of a space where photographers can candidly share their experiences and learn from one another. Kim explains, “If you're active in there and you can ask those kinds of questions and people are so quick to share what's working, what's not working” (08:46). This openness fosters a sense of belonging and mutual growth among members.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome through Community [10:38–12:13]

The conversation shifts to personal struggles, with Annemie discussing imposter syndrome and the psychological barriers photographers often face. She shares her strategy of looking to successful peers for inspiration, stating, “If that person can do it, why can't I?” (10:48). Kim echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with achievers to build confidence. She adds, “When someone says you win or you learn, you don't lose, you learn” (11:59), encouraging a mindset of continuous learning and resilience.

Building and Managing an Online Community [14:49–20:50]

Annemie inquires about the challenges and strategies involved in maintaining a positive online community. Kim outlines her approach to fostering a respectful and constructive environment. She stresses the necessity of setting clear boundaries against negativity, stating, “We just don’t tolerate that” (15:00). Kim details the role of mentors and community managers in upholding the group’s culture, ensuring that interactions remain supportive and that constructive criticism is encouraged without descending into drama. She mentions, “We have genuinely really supportive group of people” (20:42), highlighting the effectiveness of active moderation and leadership.

The Evolving Photography Industry and Future Trends [20:50–25:52]

Annemie and Kim explore the current state and future of the photography industry. They discuss the transition from the digital explosion, fueled by smartphones and social media, to a renewed appreciation for tangible, heirloom-quality photography. Kim observes, “More and more people are like wanting that heirloom” (22:05), indicating a shift towards valuing lasting memories over ephemeral digital images. Annemie concurs, emphasizing the role of education and community in helping photographers build sustainable businesses. She notes, “Having those communities and networks that are supportive and help you build a business that's sustainable” (25:20).

Closing and Resources [26:24–28:23]

In the closing segment, Annemie commends Kim for her contributions to the photography community and encourages listeners to explore the Motherhood Anthology. Kim provides details on how to join, mentioning, “There is a tab on our homepage. It's just a waitlist” (26:59). Annemie wraps up the episode by directing listeners to additional resources and inviting them to subscribe and leave reviews, ensuring that the conversation continues beyond the podcast.

Key Takeaways:

• Community Building: Authentic, supportive communities are crucial for personal and professional growth among photographers.

• Transparency: Open discussions about pricing and business strategies help demystify the photography industry and empower members.

• Overcoming Challenges: Sharing experiences and learning from peers can mitigate imposter syndrome and foster resilience.

• Managing Online Spaces: Clear guidelines and active moderation are essential to maintain a positive and constructive online community.

• Industry Trends: There is a growing demand for tangible, heirloom-quality photography as people seek lasting memories beyond digital images.

Resources Mentioned:

• Motherhood Anthology: themotherhoodanthology.com
• Motherhood Anthology Facebook Group: Available upon joining the community.

Notable Quotes:

• Annemie Tonken (00:02): “It really just warms me from the inside out. It makes me feel like part of something bigger.”

• Kim Box (08:46): “If you're active in there and you can ask those kinds of questions and people are so quick to share what's working, what's not working.”

• Annemie Tonken (10:48): “If that person can do it, why can't I?”

• Kim Box (11:59): “When someone says you win or you learn, you don't lose, you learn.”

• Kim Box (15:00): “We just don’t tolerate that.”

• Kim Box (22:05): “More and more people are like wanting that heirloom.”

• Annemie Tonken (25:20): “Having those communities and networks that are supportive and help you build a business that's sustainable.”

Conclusion:

Episode 290 of "This Can't Be That Hard" with Kim Box offers invaluable insights into the power of community in the photography industry. Through authentic conversations and shared experiences, photographers can navigate the challenges of running a sustainable business while fostering meaningful connections. Whether you're a budding photographer or a seasoned professional, the strategies and wisdom shared in this episode can help you build a thriving, supportive network that propels your business forward.