Episode 65: Collaborating Without Competing with Molly Zang

In this episode, Faithann is joined by Molly Zang, owner of Novel Optical in downtown Oklahoma City, to talk about how business owners can collaborate with non-competing professionals who serve the same audience—and why those partnerships are one of the most overlooked networking opportunities. Rather than chasing new audiences from scratch, this conversation explores how collaboration, education, and thoughtful referrals can expand reach, build rapport, and bring the right people together in a natural, non-salesy way. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why collaborating with professionals who don’t compete but serve the same clients is one of the smartest ways to grow your network How Molly’s approach to eyewear begins with deep lifestyle questions, not products Why photographers, graphic designers, estheticians, and other creatives often have unique optical needs they don’t realize can be supported How education-based collaborations (webinars, lunch & learns, PDFs) build credibility and trust faster than traditional networking Why brick-and-mortar businesses should invite people into their space even when they don’t need the service yet Key Networking Takeaway You don’t need more people—you need better alignment. When you collaborate with professionals who already have the trust of the audience you want to reach, everyone wins. About the Guest Molly Zang is the owner of Novel Optical, a woman-owned, independent optical shop in downtown Oklahoma City specializing in handcrafted, toxin-free eyewear. Novel Optical focuses exclusively on eyewear—offering highly personalized fittings, thoughtful recommendations, and a welcoming, colorful experience that feels anything but clinical. Connect with Molly & Novel Optical Website: noveloptical.com Instagram & Facebook: @NovelOptical Location: Corner of 9th & Hudson, Midtown Oklahoma City Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook Join Faithann's Buying Signals for Networkers Mastermind, designed to help networkers recognize buying signals and invite next steps with confidence—without sounding pushy. Both in-person and virtual options are available. The mastermind is 8 Weeks and begins in early Feb. 2026.  Join the Buying Signals HERE. Final Thought As you listen, ask yourself: Who serves the same people I do—but in a different way? That might be your next best collaboration. If you’d like help identifying or structuring collaborations like the ones discussed in this episode, Faithann invites you to reach out via email or message her on Facebook.  Email Faithann at [email protected].