Cath Brown

Tell us about your first Freshwalks.

I can remember being very nervous I think because, although I like both networking and walking, I thought a whole day might be a bit of a challenge. But it wasn’t – it was easy, apart from the hills. The people were brilliant and I was an instant convert.

How many have you attended up until now, April 2019?

I have no clue! If I’m free and it’s not too icy I’ll be there.

Why do you come back?

For inspiration mostly. Also the exercise, but I have lost count of the times that I have come up with a new idea or received a useful piece of advice whilst still on the train home, or when I’ve been able to work out a problem with one or more Freshwalkers on the hills.

What’s your favourite route?

Probably the circular one out of Marsden. A great pub at the end of that one too.

The something you always bring?

Water, snacks, sweets and waterproofs.

Favourite Freshwalks memory?

Probably the first trip out to Hilbre Island, or the more recent trip there. It’s a really special place and I didn’t know it existed.

How has Freshwalks helped your business?

In so many ways that I didn’t expect. I hadn’t even really started my business when I first went on a Freshwalk so from there I got the recommendation for the coaching qualification I did (John Shinnick), the encouragement to do it (Katya Willems, Michelle Pratt and many others), an accountant (Andy Fleet), friends and collaborators (too many to mention). I have also found clients either amongst the walkers or through recommendations but that is only part of it.

Recommend three people you have met on Freshwalks.

My now accountant, Andy Fleet – straightforward, easy to understand, and really efficient. Jill Jennings – a great photographer and friend. Katya Willems – Instagram whizz and enthusiastic support.

How does Freshwalks challenge typical networking formats?

It’s much more relaxed and much more beneficial than a 1 or 2 hour meeting in the middle of town. You get headspace and exercise as well as the chance to really get to know people. There’s no selling or pressure but there is the opportunity to genuinely build a network. Also, magically, it attracts great people and there are always new people alongside the regulars.

Freshwalks is a combination of exercise, networking, sharing knowledge and thinking time. How do you balance those components?

There’s something about Freshwalks that brings about a natural balance so that I don’t have to think about it. The combination of the components just works.

Suggest one new place for us to go.

Maybe some more Lancashire walks.

Sum up Freshwalks in three words.

Genuinely life-changing stuff.

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