Episode 54: Zoo Keeping for Leaders - How to Build Stronger Networking Teams with Kristen Partridge

In this episode, host Faithann Basore sits down with Kristen Partridge to unpack what it really means to lead well inside a networking group. Kristen introduces her unique, highly relatable U-Zoo Personality Framework — a tool she developed from years of leadership experience to help teams communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. Whether you’re starting a referral group, leading a chapter, or simply trying to connect better in a crowded room, this episode delivers practical wisdom you can use right away. What You’ll Learn The Four U-Zoo Animals and Their Core Questions: 🦁 The Lion: “What?” — goal-driven and visionary 🐬 The Porpoise: “Who?” — relational, inclusive, and community-focused 🐨 The Koala: “How?” — steady, process-oriented, and detail-loving 🦅 The Eagle: “Why?” — logical, organized, and values understanding before action How to read people quickly so you can build rapport faster in networking rooms. Why great teams are like zoos—they thrive when each “animal” has what they need to flourish. How to earn “drops of trust” in every conversation. Why alignment and communication—not just execution, are at the heart of every successful organization. 💬 Key Quotes “Trust is earned in drops but lost in buckets.” – Kristen Partridge “Leadership is really about zoo keeping—making sure every animal has what it needs to thrive.” – Kristen Partridge “If you go network but you don’t know how to build rapport, you’ll think networking doesn’t work.” – Faithann Basore “My younger self needed to hear: progress, not perfection. I wanted the microwave when I needed the crockpot.” – Kristen Partridge 💡 Networking Takeaway Before you start or grow your networking group, take time to understand the personalities around your leadership table. Lions lead with vision, eagles keep order, porpoises create connection, and koalas make sure everyone feels safe. When every type is represented and respected, your group can thrive long-term. 🔗 Resources Mentioned The Triumph Team: www.triumphteam.com (Contact Kristen to experience the U-Zoo Personality Exercise for your team or networking group.) Free Resource for Listeners: ✨ Download Faithann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a free guide to deepen your networking conversations and leave a lasting impression. Grab your copy here ➡️ https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook 🎧 Listen Now This episode is perfect for anyone who: Leads or wants to launch a networking or referral group Manages teams and wants better communication Feels overwhelmed by networking and wants to connect with confidence Go network, my friend — and remember: Every strong team starts with understanding the people (and animals) in your zoo. 🦁🐬🐨🦅