#102: Stop Forcing “Traditional” Networking (Do This Instead)

In this debrief episode, Ashlan and Tory reflect on their recent conversation with Nedra and pull out the real-life business lessons that stuck–especially around pivoting, boundaries, and relationship-based networking. They talk candidly about end-of-year chaos, the pressure to do “all the things,” and what it looks like to build a business that actually fits your energy, life stage, and brain wiring. Listen if you’re heading into a new year wanting more sustainability, better systems, and a networking approach that doesn’t make you want to fake your own death.Special note: We recorded this episode in December and reference Mary Williams of Sensible Woo’s CEO Winter Rebellion. The challenge has passed by the time we’re publishing the episode, and we recommend you join Mary’s list to join us for the next CEO Summer Rebellion: https://sensiblewoo.com/ceo-summer-rebellion/ What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Why Nedra’s “quiet networking” model works (especially for introverts, neurodivergent folks, and anyone who hates forced small talk)How Ashlan and Tory are rethinking offers, scope creep, and people-pleasingPractical boundary shifts that protect your time, energy, and attention—without tanking client relationshipsA reminder that pivoting isn’t failure…it’s business ownershipKey Takeaways: Networking should match your energy (not drain it). Structured, one-on-one style networking can create real relationships without the “schmooze the room” nightmare.Boundaries aren’t mean, they’re how you stay in business. Time-blocking, better scope control, and not over-delivering “just because” keeps your work sustainable.People-pleasing shows up as scope creep. Even with a strong contract, it’s easy to start saying yes to extras once you like a client–notice it early and course-correct.Pivoting is normal and necessary. The more flexible you are, the more resilient you become, especially when you can’t control the economy, trends, or life seasons.If you’d like to listen to Nedra’s episode, you can find it at the links below: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/permission-to-market-authentically-stop-forcing-what/id1735641469?i=1000743982343 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/52G1UZfquhYdMlztHtMxV9?si=DsYYt2cBSJqoQWzX1N4gog YouTube: https://youtu.be/4sgG0PvvEEs?si=K97iVBH2rKZPlzgi Host information:Co-Host, Ashlan Glazier-Anderson, Owner of AshbeanPDX MarketingCo-Host, Victoria (Tory) Proppe, Owner of Imagine Marketing StrategiesThe Course: The Take the Leap course contains everything you need to know to successfully launch your business now. Sign up today to join the course and get support from Ashlan & Tory who will guide you through your journey as a new entrepreneur.Sign up here: https://www.taketheleap-today.com/the-course Like our content? Be sure to subscribe and review! Want to keep in touch? Find us on:YoutubeInstagram