#231: From Loss to LinkedIn: Deanna Russo's Journey from Personal Tragedy to Professional Triumph

Deanna Russo has been on a mission to keep the story of her sister alive after losing her to a drunk driving accident. Through her own physical challenges and the emotional toll of her sister's absence, somewhere along the way LinkedIn would enter into her transformational story!"I crashed into LinkedIn in 2018!"Deanna Russo shares her personal story of loss and resilience, starting with the tragic death of her sister in a drunk driving accident. She discusses the impact of the accident on her life and how it led her to become an advocate for drunk driving awareness. Deanna also opens up about her own experience with a car accident and subsequent lung cancer diagnosis, highlighting the importance of early detection and the power of positive thinking.In the second half of the interview, Deanna dives into the world of LinkedIn and explains why it is a powerful platform for networking and professional growth. She discusses the misconceptions about LinkedIn and shares her strategies for creating engaging content and building meaningful connections. Deanna emphasizes the importance of storytelling on LinkedIn and how it can help individuals and businesses stand out in a crowded digital landscape.EPISODE AT A GLANCE- "If someone hears something in my story that they can relate to, I can change their mindset."- "LinkedIn has the sanest of people. The crazy people don't seem to hang out as much." - "LinkedIn is a professional networking platform, but it's not just a bunch of CEOs and suits." - "LinkedIn allows you to tell stories and have meaningful conversations with others."LINKS & RESOURCESMENTIONED IN THE EPISODEFOLLOW YOUR HOST, KEVIN LOWE, ON LinkedInFOLLOW GUEST, DEANNA RUSSO ON LinkedInVISIT DEANNA'S WEBSITE: LeverageUpLLC.comBE IN THE KNOW!CLICK HERE to Get on The OFFICIAL Email List for the Podcast!TODAY'S AWESOME GUESTDEANNA RUSSODeanna Russo is a LinkedIn expert and the founder of Leverage Up LLC. She helps individuals and businesses leverage the power of LinkedIn to grow their networks, increase visibility, and achieve their goals.Hey, it's Kevin!I hope you enjoyed today's episode! If there is ever anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to reach out. Below, you will find ALL the places and ALL the ways to connect!I would LOVE to hear from you! Send me a Voice MessageWant to be a guest on GRIT, GRACE, & INSPIRATION? Send Kevin Lowe a message on PodMatch!Book Kevin to Speak at Your Next Event: CLICK to Learn More + Get In TouchHire Kevin to Create Your Own Custom Soundtrack!Or for 1 Place for Everything, CLICK to visit the website!Stay Awesome! Live Inspired!© 2026 Grit, Grace, & Inspiration