Sally Burns joins me for a conversation about The Portal — the online platform she founded to support course creators, community builders and educators that goes beyond the algorithm.
We talk about ecosystem thinking, decentralised business models and why so many creators are ready to throw out the rulebook and start again — this time, in community.
From permaculture thinking to collective ownership, Sally brings a fresh perspective to what it means to build an accessible, ethical and regenerative infrastructure for our creative work.
We also explore:
Why many existing platforms feel overwhelming
The practical impact of running offers across multiple tools
What it means to develop an alternative, nurturing ecosystem
The incredible community-led funding journey behind The Portal
How business can be a vehicle for systemic change
My highlights include:
The story of how a camping trip — and a dead phone — sparked the idea for The Portal
What permaculture principles can teach us about online learning and community
How silence, slowness and somatics are finding a home in this online space
Connect with Sally:
Visit The Portal to explore live and upcoming offers
Want to join the next wave? Sign up to Exploring our Edges
Follow the journey on Instagram
I enjoyed hearing Sally reflect on how we can build digital spaces that honour nuance with trust and care. Her approach to platform-building is such a hopeful example of what’s possible when our vision and values lead.
What landed most deeply for you? Share your reflections in the comments or come and say hello. And if you’re enjoying these conversations, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next.
If this episode resonated with you, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or a rating on Spotify would mean a lot and help others find their way here too.
Thanks to 91 Magazine for sponsoring this podcast episode.
This episode of the podcast is sponsored by 91 Magazine, an independent interiors and lifestyle publication telling the stories of small businesses and the creative people behind them.
This beautifully curated magazine is published in print twice a year, with free content available on their website, and some excellent online workshops to help small business owners thrive.
You can also subscribe to their email letters and receive a free quarterly mini e-zine called seek, inspire, create, as well as inspiring, personal emails direct from editor
.Buy the print publication on their website, 91magazine.co.uk, follow @91magazine on Instagram, or find it in many independent stores across the UK and around the world.
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