Navigating partnership collapse, the Disney/Pixar learning loop and the Morning Brew formula
In partnership with GREENSPAN
Welcome to Partnership Wednesday! Here are 3 ideas from me and 1 question for you to consider this week to create partnerships you never thought possible!
3 IDEAS FROM ME
I.
Flexibility is an asset. Great partnerships grow and adapt, becoming stronger through shared learning. When Disney first partnered with Pixar, both companies brought different strengths—Disney’s distribution expertise and Pixar’s pioneering animation technology. They established an adaptive feedback loop, allowing both sides to learn and refine their collaboration over time. This openness to adaptation became especially important when Disney later acquired Pixar, creating a new model for how the companies would work together in film development.
Start by creating a learning-focused fortnightly meeting cadence.
II.
Culture fit isn’t just a soft measure—it’s a determinant of resilience and the gravitational pull that holds partnerships together. Beyond the numbers, the partnership’s durability often hinges on culture and values alignment.
III.
Your key stakeholder exits the partnership unexpectedly. How will you steer the project towards success? I was asked this question from the crowd this week. Here’s my answer:
Start a scenario planning conversation. Immediately.
Scenarios help leaders and teams understand a range of possible next steps and reduce our human tendency to focus on a worst case scenario.
Scenario planning has two other powerful benefits. First, it demonstrates considered action in the face of uncertainty. Second, and when done well, scenario planning helps surface the possibility of concluding a partnership, particularly if it's not playing out as expected. This can bring relief of those involved and help the organisation refocus resources to higher value partnerships.
1 QUESTION FOR YOU
Who in your supply chain could you geek out with to accelerate the development of your next product?
PARTNERSHIP+ MOMENT
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KNOW PEOPLE WHO NEED THIS?
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Until next week,
Phil Hayes-St Clair - Partnership Expert and Host of Partnership+
FROM OUR PARTNER gREENSPAN
Every time I step into ‘The Lab’, my 5x2m home podcast studio, beautifully designed by Greenspan, I’m reminded of the power of great design. Since 1976, Greenspan has been transforming lives, crafting everything from garden rooms and studios to rural barns and cottages, all while ensuring top-quality construction and council compliance.
Now, I’m excited to partner with Greenspan to offer new customers $500 off their next project! If you're interested, reach out to me here.
In the meantime, check out the team that sets the standard for customer success at Greenspan.
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The Wednesday Partnership Newsletter includes 3 ideas and 1 question for you to create business partnerships that you never thought possible.
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