Looking Back to Move Forward: Del Harbeck on the What I Might Say Podcast

What would you tell your younger self if you could go back in time? And, just as importantly, what do you think your younger self might say to you now?

That’s the reflective (and slightly mind-bending) question our co-director Del Harbeck explored on the What I Might Say podcast with Ethan from NoisePilot — a conversation filled with honesty, insight, and a good dose of entrepreneurial wisdom.

From Freelancer to Founder

In the episode, Del opens up about her early career and the path that led her into business ownership. Like many entrepreneurs, she didn’t start out with a grand plan — instead, her freelance journey grew organically as she looked for flexible ways to build a meaningful career while juggling family life and regular moves as a military spouse.

What started as freelance copywriting and marketing work soon evolved into a full-fledged business. In 2018, she launched her own agency, CopyCat, helping small businesses find their voice and connect authentically with their audiences.

The Merge That Changed Everything

Fast forward a few years and Del’s working relationship with Meg Storey developed and Meg floated the idea of joining forces to create something truly special. In 2022, their two agencies merged to form Marketing Movement as it is today — a dynamic, purpose-driven agency that blends creativity, strategy, and integrity.

Today, Marketing Movement supports clients across Australia and beyond, helping them build ethical, effective marketing that feels true to who they are.

Lessons in Business and Self-Belief

Throughout the chat, Del shares the lessons she’s learned from building and growing businesses:

Trust your instincts – There’s no perfect roadmap, so learn to back yourself and make decisions with courage and clarity.
Stay consistent – Success rarely comes overnight. It’s built through showing up, even when it’s hard.
Lead with integrity – Doing right by people — whether they’re clients, collaborators, or team members — is the foundation of lasting success.

And of course, she reflects on what she’d say to her younger self: to back yourself and be your biggest cheerleader.

But perhaps the most interesting part of the episode is when the question is turned around — what would her younger self say to her now, taking a glimpse into her future? Del thinks to herself and says “the best is yet to come”. An interesting perspective from someone who has worked in many countries and industries and led a vibrant life full of exciting new changes. To not view your past as “the good years” but instead, continue building on them – to create excitement that continues well into the future.