The Joy of Connecting

Maria Doughty has spent nearly five decades' worth of institutional wisdom at her fingertips — and she uses every bit of it to do one thing: bring people together who never would have found each other otherwise. As President & CEO of The Chicago Network, a 50-year-old invitation-only community of the city's most powerful senior executive women, Maria has turned the art of connection into a leadership philosophy.In this warm and wonderfully candid episode, Maria shares how a leap of faith (signed in February 2020, with an April start date — yes, that April) led her to the role she was meant for, and what she's learned about building community that actually holds — across industries, decades, and more than 70 events a year.✨ Highlights from this episode:Why the most powerful communities are built on threads, not topics — and what that difference means for how you connectThe two founding rules of The Chicago Network that have held for nearly 50 years (no guilt + the 24-hour rule)How Maria plays the role of connector-in-chief — and why stepping away is often the most important move she makesWhat high-achieving women get wrong about giving — and the one question that stopped a member in her tracksWhy Maria believes there's no such thing as a coincidence when it comes to connectionWhether you lead a community, build one, or simply want to show up better in the ones you belong to — this one will stay with you.👉 What connection in your life is quietly waiting to become something more — if only someone nudged it forward?SHOW LINKS:The Chicago Network: https://www.thechicagonetwork.org/Maria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-doughty/

Meg McWilliams knows the sting of networking gone wrong—and she’s building a better way. As the co-founder of Gobby Goblin, an AI-powered event networking tool, Meg is on a mission to make large-scale events more human, one meaningful intro at a time.In this refreshingly honest episode, Meg shares her founder journey, lessons learned from gaming and immersive tech, and what it really takes to create connection at scale without losing the personal touch.✨ Highlights from this episode:Why most event apps fail at real connection—and what to do insteadHow Gobby's text-based AI mimics the intuition of a great friendWhat founders need to know about timing, ROI, and meaningful growthDesigning tech that meets people where they are—no downloads requiredThe magic of asking surprising questions (like someone’s favorite smell)Whether you’re building a product, attending your next conference, or just tired of small talk that goes nowhere—this one’s for you.👉 What would change if your next event intro felt like it came from a friend?SHOW LINKS: https://gobbygoblin.com/Meg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-mcwilliams-b1669976/

“Human connection isn’t instant—rapport might be, but trust takes time.” — Orlaith Brogan, Co-Founder of Wing PeopleWhat if networking wasn’t awkward, aimless, or based on chance? What if connection at events was designed—with intention, warmth, and actual follow-through?Shaena Harrison and Orlaith Brogan are the co-founders of Wing People, a company that places trained "wing people" inside events to make meaningful, real-time introductions. In this episode, they share the origin of their mission, the power of serendipity, and what it means to connect without agenda.✨ Highlights from this episode:How to make people feel safe enough to open upThe problem with pitch-slapping—and what to do insteadWhy event ROI needs more human design, not just better logisticsReal stories of connections that changed lives (years later)The magic of noticing who’s standing alone—and doing something about itWhether you’re an event organizer, a reluctant networker, or a lifelong connector, this episode will remind you that the best outcomes often come when we stop chasing them.👉 Who’s someone you could introduce—just because?SHOW LINKS: https://www.wingpeople.io/Shaena: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaena-harrison-professional-wing-woman/Orlaith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlaith-brogan-professional-wing-woman/

Connection is not a credit card swipe.  It's an investment.In this heartfelt and energizing conversation, we’re joined by Alli Kushner, Global Operations Lead at LinkedIn and founder of BeeKyn, a startup helping working parents find meaningful playdate connections for their kids and themselves.We dive deep into how modern life complicates authentic connection and how Alli is tackling that challenge head-on. From the emotional toll of postpartum depression to the triumph of building something that brings people together offline, Alli shares her story with grace, wisdom, and warmth.We discuss:Why connecting as a parent is a logistical and emotional challengeThe surprising Venn diagram of building genuine friendships as a caregiverHow postpartum depression inspired Alli to create a solution for real-life connectionThe difference between networking and investing in relationshipsWhat it takes to show up, reach out, and build community without an agendaThis episode is a beautiful, honest reminder of why human connection matters and how it can shape us in life-changing ways. Enjoy! __________👉 Find Alli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonkushner/👉 Learn more about BeeKyn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beekynco/👉 Follow Joy of Connecting Show on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-joy-of-connecting-show/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://thejoyofconnectingshow.substack.com/

We’re pumped to welcome Scott Tran, Founder at Support Driven, a community serving customer support and customer experience professionals, to our show.Scott has built a thriving online community of more than 13,000 members who care deeply about support. In this episode, he shares how the art of listening shaped every stage of growth, why people stay for friendship (not only answers), and what it really takes to scale a community without losing its soul. We discuss the importance of serving your community and Scott’s journey of growing Support Driven from a small Slack group to a full-fledged organization hosting conferences. Tune in to hear:How Scott built a global community from scratchWhy emotional stickiness matters in community buildingThe surprising signals that show your community is thrivingThe power of listening and adaptingIf you're growing a community of your own, you’ll love this episode. Plus, it will inspire you to ask yourself: What’s one small signal that tells you your people feel connected? Enjoy!__________👉 Find Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-tran-188815a3/👉 Learn more about Support Driven: https://www.supportdriven.com/👉 Follow Joy of Connecting Show on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-joy-of-connecting-show/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://thejoyofconnectingshow.substack.com/

What a treat we have for you today. We’re thrilled to welcome Yuval Yarden, a connector at heart and Founder of Pollinate, to the show. She’s a champion in building spaces where founders can thrive, crafting programming across VCs, corporates, government initiatives, and her own non-profit. She created Pollinate because she deeply believes in the magic that happens when CEOs step out of the day-to-day chaos and see their challenges through fresh eyes.In this episode, Yuval shares how she’s reshaped her work to stay close to what she loves: real, honest connection. We talk about:How she rebuilt her business from the ground up in a new countryThe cultural shifts between building community in the U.S. vs. IsraelWhy founders & CEOs need each other more than they need another expertWhat not to do when trying to help someone (& why listening is the most underrated skill in business)We also get personal and cover what happens when you lose touch with the work you love and how to get it back. Whether you build communities, lead a team, or just believe in the power of people helping people, this one’s for you. Enjoy!__________👉 Find Yuval on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yyarden/👉 Learn more about Pollinate: https://pollinate.lovable.app/👉 Follow Joy of Connecting Show on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-joy-of-connecting-show/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://thejoyofconnectingshow.substack.com/

We’re excited to welcome Jason Yarborough, Co-Founder of Arcadia, co-host of Friends With Benefits Podcast, and partnerships thought leader, to our show. He’s passionate about bringing humanity back into business and harmony into the lives of go-to-market leaders. Jason joins us for a conversation full of wisdom, warmth, and practical insight on building relationships that go far beyond the transaction. From launching “Coffee with Yarby” and helping hundreds of people land jobs or find direction, to founding Arcadia, Jason has made helping people his calling.We discuss:How purposeful connection can lead to personal fulfillment and professional successThe importance of human element in networking and why it's the heart of Arcadia Leadership ExperienceHow to show up as your full, authentic self and build a lasting communityThe simple question that sparks deeper, human-centered conversationThe origin story of “Coffee with Yarby” and the wonderful ripple effect it hadEnjoy!__________👉 Find Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yarby/👉 Learn more about Arcadia: https://www.bearcadia.com/👉 Learn more about Arcadia Leadership Experience: https://www.arcadialeadershipexperience.com/👉 Check out Friends With Benefits Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/friends-with-benefits-podcast/👉 Follow Joy of Connecting Show on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-joy-of-connecting-show/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://thejoyofconnectingshow.substack.com/

In this Joy of Connecting episode, we sit down with the brilliant Marion Siboni, Founder & CEO, La Creme de la STEM™, the only global, private network for early-stage female founders in tech and science. With deep roots in partnerships and a career spanning Cisco, MongoDB, and Techstars, Marion shares how she has leveraged connection as her greatest asset. We discuss:How Marion built a thriving community for early-stage female founders from scratchThe importance of building your network before you need itWhy you should always connect with people on personal mattersA powerful story about what happens when just one person believes in youWays a community can accelerate your personal and business growthWhether you’re a founder, a connector, or someone trying to figure out your next big move, this episode is for you. And it will make you wonder, what kind of community do you want to build, and how will you show up in it? Tune in and enjoy!__________👉 Find Marion on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionsiboni/👉 Learn more about La Creme de la STEM™: https://www.lacremedelastem.com/👉 Follow Joy of Connecting Show on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-joy-of-connecting-show/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://thejoyofconnectingshow.substack.com/

As a sought-after LinkedIn Coach & ghostwriter, podcast host, and Founder of Composure Digital, Ashley Laabs helps founders and executives show up with clarity and confidence. In this deeply personal and insightful conversation, she talks about courage and why it’s essential to stop performing and start showing up as your full self.She talks about what it means to build meaningful relationships, especially in professional spaces that often prioritize polish over realness. Ashley shares a beautifully human story about how one small act at the dinner table reframed her entire understanding of connection, and how you can apply that same insight in your work, networking, and everyday conversations.We discuss:How to make networking real and humanThe surprising act of kindness that shifted how Ashley connects with othersWhy giving without an agenda is the most generous and effective way to networkHow to build a community on LinkedIn without losing yourself in the scrollHer simple go-to question that sparks more honest conversationsWhether you're building a brand, growing a business, or just trying to find your people, this Joy of Connecting episode is your permission slip to do it differently. It’s a warm reminder to always lead with humanity. And ask yourself, what are you holding back that might actually help you find your people? Tune in and enjoy!__________👉 Find Ashley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freelance-content-strategist-copywriter-ashley-laabs/👉 Learn more about Composure Digital: https://www.composuredigital.com/👉 Follow Joy of Connecting Show on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-joy-of-connecting-show/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribe

In this Joy of Connecting episode, Antonio Caridad, Head of Global Partner Operations at Tricentis, shares how the Arcadia Leadership Experience influenced some of the best career opportunities, partnerships, and friendships. He also talked about how being in the moment and off-the-grid at the leadership retreat changed his approach to connection and business forever.We dive into:The #1 mistake people make in networking (and how to fix it)Why business partnerships fall apart (and how to build ones that last)How Antonio’s “Friday Lift-off” is helping job seekers land opportunities through real connectionWhy ditching your phone might be the best networking move you ever makeThe power of human connection in career growthReady to build better partnerships and deeper connections? Buckle up and hit play!__________👉 Find Antonio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniocaridad/overlay/about-this-profile/👉 Learn more about Tricentis: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tricentis/👉 Learn more about the Arcadia Leadership Experience: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bearcadia/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Rachel Rozen, is the Founder and driving force behind Connection Catalyst, a facilitation-based learning company dedicated to helping people master the art of networking and relationship-building. She empowers individuals and teams to conquer fears, sow their seeds, and nurture a network that significantly boosts their "net worth."In this Joy of Connecting episode, Rachel breaks down what networking really means—and why it’s so much more than schmoozing at industry events. From big events to one-on-ones and small group gatherings, there are countless ways to build meaningful connections. We discuss:Rachel’s networking framework of 3 P’s: Personal, Passion, and ProblemWays to make networking a lifelong skillDifferent ways to build connections (without awkward small talk!)How to turn “icky” networking into authentic, lasting relationshipsThe unexpected networking lesson Rachel learned from her father’s legacy The power of showing up as a giver—not just a takerOne big takeaway? Do what works for you. So if you’re just getting started, ease into it. Before you push outside your comfort zone, find a way to network that feels authentic to you. And if you’re not sure how to start, tune in to this episode. It's jam-packed with actionable tips just for YOU.__________👉 Find Rachel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-rozen/👉 Learn more about Connection Catalyst, and learn how to overcome networking anxiety, make relationship-building a habit, and turn contacts into connections: https://www.connectioncatalyst.me/👉 Join Rachel’s FREE workshop that helps professionals create a networking habit: https://www.connectioncatalyst.me/freewebinar👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://www.connectioncatalyst.me/freewebinar

Marija Skobe-Pilley, the Founder & CEO of Women in Customer Success, started a podcast with the desire to feature remarkable women in customer success and amplify their voices. What began as a passion project grew into a powerful network of over 130 women who became each other's mentors and champions. She didn’t plan it. She didn’t have a secret agenda. She didn’t set out to build a massive network. She just kept having conversations, showing up, and looking for ways to help. Today, WiCS is a go-to hub, community, and thriving ecosystem for Customer Success professionals, built on the power of peer learning, visibility, and genuine connections. In this Joy of Connecting episode, Marija shares a personal story about how one conversation changed everything and how focusing on giving first has shaped her career journey and life.We discuss:How Podcasts catalyze connectionHow a simple idea turned into a 300-person mentorship programWhy traditional networking often fails (& advice that actually work)Conversation starters that reveal people's true passionsWays mentorship can transform careersIf networking has ever felt awkward or transactional, this episode will help you flip the script. And inspire you to approach it the right way. Tune in!__________👉 Find Marija on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mspilley/overlay/about-this-profile/👉 Learn more about Women in Customer Success, a go-to platform for connecting, inspiring and showcasing women in the Customer Success industry: https://www.womenincs.co/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribeLinks from the episode: Wednesday Women - movement on a mission is to increase visibility of executive women leaders you should know, learn from, and be inspired by: https://www.wednesdaywomen.org/Women in Customer Success Power Up - the first women-only mentoring program within the Customer Success industry: https://www.womenincs.co/mentoringWomen in Customer Success Podcast: https://www.womenincs.co/podcast

"Say the quiet part out loud." Taina Palombo-Price, Director of Product Marketing at Cisco,  lives by this mantra. It’s helped her build meaningful connections in both her career and personal life. As an expert product marketing leader with experience at industry giants like Meta and LinkedIn, she knows a thing or two about networking, authenticity, and building community. In this episode of The Joy of Connecting show, she shares how one simple compliment sparked a decade-long friendship and why saying what you’re thinking (yes, even at daycare pickup) can shift the course of your life - personally and professionally.We discuss:How a spontaneous compliment can be the start of a life-changing connectionWhy small, authentic moments are the building blocks of real communityWhy connecting over personal experiences lasts longer than career tiesPractical tips for building community and finding your voiceSo, when was the last time a small compliment led to something big? Tune in, get inspired, and maybe even try out Taina’s go-to icebreaker (hint: emojis are involved). 😉__________👉 Find Taina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tainapalomboprice/👉 Learn more about Cisco, the worldwide technology leader that is revolutionizing the way organizations connect and protect in the AI era: https://www.cisco.com/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribe

In this Joy of Connecting episode, we welcome Hansen Hunt, Head of Community at Covve (where he leads the Connection Crew) and the Founder of Certified Mastery. He joins us to share his journey of becoming an invaluable expert in building meaningful communities. He explains how his quest for sobriety and emotional health formed the undercurrents of his current professional endeavors. Hansen inspires us to believe that our life's trials can and will steer us toward our true calling.We discuss:The difference between networking and belonging—and why it mattersHow Hansen turned his own loneliness into a thriving communityThe underrated habit that will make you a much better connectorWhy “connecting the connectors” is the key to stronger, more supportive relationshipsThe power of risk-taking—how one ‘yes’ changed Hansen’s personal and professional lifeIf you’re asking yourself now “Am I truly building relationships that matter, or just collecting contacts?” This absolute gem of an episode with a true connection designer will give you the answers you need to thrive. Dig in!__________👉 Find Hansen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hansenhunt/👉 Learn more about Covve: https://covve.com/👉 Learn more about Certified Mastery: https://www.certifiedmastery.com/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribeLinks from the episode: Connection Crew by Covve - the Olympic training team for connection professionals: https://covve.com/connectioncrew/The Mankind Project – A global organization supporting men in personal growth and authentic connection: mankindproject.orgKevin Monroe, The World’s Gratitude Coach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinmonroe/Taylor Harrington - Head of Community at Groove: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heytayhar/overlay/about-this-profile/Groove - The coworking app for business owners and creatives working from home: https://www.groove.ooo/

With AI and automation looming behind every corner, human connection is more valuable than ever. Enter Lauren Gibson, Founder of Connections, a newsletter and online event company that aims to inspire the future of work through professional networking, human connection, and community building.Lauren’s passion is helping professionals forge meaningful, intentional relationships, especially on LinkedIn. She joins us on The Joy of Connecting show to share the lessons she learned from hosting Connection Power Hours, which united hundreds of professionals in different industries and helped them unlock unexpected career opportunities.In this episode, we dive into:How strategic networking can open doors in ways you never imaginedThe two types of connections you need in your network—and how to nurture bothWhy a little vulnerability can help build deeper professional relationshipsA simple yet powerful question that sparks a genuine connection in any conversationIf you’re out there thinking “I don’t have a network” or aren’t sure how to start building one, Lauren’s story and insights will show you exactly where (& how) to begin.__________👉 Find Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laur3n-gibson/overlay/about-this-profile/👉 Learn more about Connections: https://joinconnections.co/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribeLinks from the episode: Joseph Lubin - a leader in the blockchain space: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-lubin-48406489/Ethereum - The leading platform for innovative apps and blockchain networks: https://ethereum.org/en/Selena Coles - an expert in funding and scaling social impact networks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/selena-coles-ab12a5100/overlay/about-this-profile/Georgetown University – Lauren’s alma mater, where she first started making key industry connections: https://www.georgetown.edu/

We’re pumped to welcome Laurel Farrer, an internationally-renowned thought leader and expert on the topic of remote work, to The Joy of Connecting. She’s the Founder & CEO of Distribute Consulting, a virtual organizational development think tank and consulting firm.Laurel joins us to share her wisdom on building authentic relationships and creating a more diverse workforce. In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of remote work, the art of networking as an introvert, and why connection starts with generosity.We discuss:Networking tips for introverts (spoiler: Compliment. Never. Fails.)How remote work can unlock workforce diversity and innovationWhy Laurel’s top networking advice is: "Share a personality, not a pitch"The power (& impact) of generosity in building lifelong professional connectionsWhether you're navigating remote work, building your network, or seeking inspiration for deeper human connections, this episode is packed with actionable insights you want to hear. Dig in!__________👉 Find Laurel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-farrer/👉 Learn more about Distribute Consulting: https://www.distributeconsulting.com/👉 And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribeLinks from the episode: "How to Win Friends & Influence People" book by Dale Carnegie: https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/Distribute Consulting: https://www.distributeconsulting.com/

We’re excited to welcome a prolific entrepreneur, writer, podcaster, and all-around creative soul Alex Searle to our Joy of Connecting podcast. He’s the Founder of Humble Mind, a social learning & community-building company that’s helping professionals solve real-world challenges & transform insight into action. In this episode, we peel back the layers and dive into what being authentic really means, and why the real you matters more than any performance. Alex shares insights on building trust, fostering vulnerability, and the unspoken "language" of connection that shapes everything from leadership to community-building.We discuss:Why authenticity is about subtracting the layers instead of adding moreThe importance of trust and vulnerability in building meaningful connectionsHow storytelling shapes human connection and drives business successThe role of chemistry, vibe and attention in creating deeper relationshipsHow great leaders connect on a personal level to inspire actionThis episode is such a treat so dig in!______________Find Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexsearle1/Learn more about Humble Mind: https://humblemind.co/And get bi-weekly, actionable tips for building your network and connecting with meaning: https://joyofconnecting.beehiiv.com/subscribeLinks from the episode: Humble Mind, a social learning & community building company: https://humblemind.co/Conscious Marketing Movement, a global movement shaping the future of marketing for a better tomorrow: https://conscious-marketing-movement.com/Simon Sinek, best-selling author, thought leader and inspirational speaker on business leadership: https://simonsinek.com/Books mentioned: “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek: https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/

In this episode of The Joy of Connecting, we welcome MK Getler-Porizkova, CMO of Loop & Tie, a sustainable gifting platform, and Founder of Branded Inferior. MK champions inclusion and passionately advocates for intentional, human-centered connection and networking. They join us on the show to reveal how connection starts with self-awareness and ripples outward to forge stronger, more meaningful relationships. From rethinking corporate gifting to fostering communities built on relatability, MK shares insights for professionals, leaders, and anyone looking to deepen their connections. This heartfelt episode will inspire you to reevaluate the way you relate (& connect) to the world around you. Enjoy!🍵 Find MK on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkgetler/🍵 Learn more about Loop & Tie: https://www.loopandtie.com/Links from the episode: Branded Inferior, a company that exists to help you reclaim the power and potency of this phase - and to inspire those around us to action: https://brandedinferior.com/We Create Space, a global organization supporting LGBTQ+ leaders through leadership development and personal growth programs: https://www.wecreatespace.co/San Francisco 49ers community (mentioned in relation to gifting and community building through season ticket holder appreciation programs): https://www.49ers.com/community/Natasha Getler-Porizkova, Co-Founder of Branded Inferior: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashaporizkova/

In our newest episode of The Joy of Connecting, we welcome Jenny Kay Pollock, Founder of Women and AI, a community hub for women in all stages of their AI journey.From building vibrant communities to driving innovation in AI, Jenny is a super-connector who lives her mission to empower women in tech. She joins us to share the story of how meaningful connections have propelled her career and enriched her life. And remind us that real growth happens when we focus on who we’re working with, not just what we’re working on. So whether you’re just starting to navigate your career in tech, interested in community-building, or want practical networking tips, this episode is for you.______________🍵 Find Jenny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennykaypollock/🍵 Learn more about Women and AI, a community hub for women in all stages of their AI journey: https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-and-ai/Links from the episode: TechWalk, weekly networking walks in the park for Tech and SaaS professionals: https://www.techwalk.co/How Women Inspire podcast: https://www.howwomenlead.com/podcast Dabbl, AI-powered College Admissions Counselor: https://go-dabbl.ai/TechCrunch, a news website dedicated to the tech scene: https://techcrunch.com/How Women Lead, a platform for women to connect, learn, find purpose and make an impact: https://www.howwomenlead.com/Julie Castro Abrams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-castro-abrams/overlay/about-this-profile/Rupa Bhagwat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupabhagwat/overlay/about-this-profile/Christine Farrier Rosemin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinefarrierrosemin/overlay/about-this-profile/Sirisha Kaipa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sirisha-kaipa-ba157b/overlay/about-this-profile/

Kaivona Parker, the Unboring Sales Specialist and the Founder of Kaivona Parker Agency, Inc, is a powerhouse known for her ability to create world-class sales teams and deliver unboring, transformational training experiences. And she knows that networking isn’t just about transactions but transformation and growth. She joins us on The Joy of Connecting show to unpack the art of building authentic, life-changing relationships. In this episode, we discuss everything, from building meaningful connections to fostering community and empowering underserved professionals—and then some!Tune in to this jam-packed episode that will inspire you and challenge your thoughts about connection, authenticity, and what it means to truly thrive. Enjoy!🍵 Find Kaivona on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaivona-parker/🍵 Learn more about Kaivona Parker Agency, Inc: https://kaipagency.com/Links from the episode: BLK Men in Tech, a community for black men in the tech industry: https://www.blkmenintech.com/Francis Aremo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisaremo/Khambrel (Kham) Ward: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khambrel-kham-ward-11451153/Ty Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyrellsmith/

Our host Melissa Moody sits down with  Eric Harrison, founder of Thrive, to chat about how fostering meaningful connections in your community supports business growth and mental well-being. Eric shares his journey of founding Thrive, his experience with early struggles in business, and the pivotal moments of connection that shaped his entrepreneurial path.He also discusses the importance of being vulnerable and honest in networking, offering a practical story about how a single meeting propelled him to new business relationships and opportunities. Tune in for his advice on making genuine connections and thoughts on hyper-local networking and intentional community-building.Find Eric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericsharrison/Learn more about Thrive, a community for bootstrapped entrepreneurs at: https://www.thriveforbootstrappers.com/Links from the episode: Philly Startup Leaders - a startup-focused community in Philadelphia: https://www.phillystartupleaders.org/Hustle and Grow - a curated, intimate networking group in Philadelphia: https://www.hustleandgrowpa.com/Notice Media - agency specializing in LinkedIn ghostwriting: https://noticemedia.xyz/Haven - Accounting and tax software company: https://www.usehaven.com/Dan Ritterman https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritterman/Stephen Cassano linkedin.com/in/stephen-cassano-5a657720Josh Cons https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-cons-453993204/Michael Brod https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brod/

Welcome to the Joy of Connecting - where modern professionals share stories of meaningful connection and how it can increase business success, unlock career growth, and create personal happiness.    Hear from the host, Melissa Moody, on the purpose of the show and what you can expect this season.