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Think you're bad at networking because you hate small talk and scripted elevator pitches? Think again.

In this episode, I’m joined by Matthew Pollard - author, speaker, and self-proclaimed Rapid Growth Guy - to discuss how to make networking easier and more effective by leaning into your natural strengths instead of trying to do things like everyone else.

Matthew breaks down a refreshingly strategic and human-centered approach to networking that’s tailor-made for introverts and extroverts alike.

In this conversation, we cover:

• How to ditch the elevator pitch and use a “unified message” to create curiosity and connection
• How storytelling makes your value crystal clear (without feeling salesy)
• Why trying to appeal to everyone actually waters down your impact
• Why you need both “momentum partners” and “champions” to succeed
• How to uniquely position yourself to build powerful, lasting business relationships

If traditional networking advice has ever made you want to hide in the bathroom - this episode is your permission slip to do things differently.

Links & References:

• Join us at our next PWR Virtual Speed Networking Event!
• For even deeper connections, check out the Powerful Women Rising Community!
• Connect with Matthew Pollard and learn more at https://matthewpollard.com or http://theintrovertsedge.com

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Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two dogs, her soul cat Giorgio and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

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Being your full, unapologetic self isn’t a liability - it’s a strategy.

What if everything you’ve been taught about how to be “professional” is actually holding you back?

In this episode, attorney Lauren Varner shares how she broke free from the outdated stereotypes that often demand women dim their light in order to be taken seriously.

From ponytails and pantyhose to sexy outfits and bold billboards, Lauren’s evolution is a masterclass in what happens when you stop trying to fit in - and start leading with your whole, authentic self.

Together, we unpack what it really means to be professional, why embracing your femininity gives you an advantage in business, and how to deal with the people who just don't get it.

In this episode, we cover:

• How traditional “professionalism” punishes self-expression - especially for women
• What happens when you stop trying to be palatable and allow yourself to be powerful
• The emotional toll of shrinking yourself to make other people more comfortable
• How to handle criticism from mentors, colleagues, or the internet with grace (and fire)
• How typically feminine traits like empathy, vulnerability, and style can be your business superpowers

If you’ve ever been told to tone it down, cover it up, or be less “you” in order to get ahead - this conversation will light a fire in you.

Links & References:

• Join us at our next PWR Virtual Speed Networking Event!
• For even deeper connections, check out the Powerful Women Rising Community!
• Learn more about Varner Faddis Elite Legal
• Follow Lauren and Varner Faddis Elite Legal on Instagram

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two dogs, her soul cat Giorgio and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

It’s not about going viral. It’s about going deeper.

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by my new business bestie, Alex Sanfilippo, founder of PodMatch - a platform that connects podcast hosts and guests, to talk about what it really takes to build a podcast that grows your business and your influence - without burning out or giving up.

Alex shares the truth that so many of us have learned the hard way - the best podcasts aren’t always the ones with the most downloads. They’re the ones that create real connection with the right people.

We also discuss:

• The most important questions to ask before starting a podcast
• The truth about vanity metrics - and how to grow without "going viral"
• How podcast hosts can create unique, one-on-one relationships with listeners that feel surprisingly personal despite being one-sided.
• How to simplify your workflow using the "automate, delegate, eliminate" rule

Whether you’re just starting out or feeling overwhelmed by all the “shoulds,” this conversation will help you simplify your approach and stay focused on what actually matters.

Links & References:

• Join us at our next PWR Virtual Speed Networking Event!
• For even deeper connections, check out the Powerful Women Rising Community!
• Whether you are a podcast guest/host or an aspiring guest/host, https://podmatch.com/free will give you some quick ideas to help you grow and improve in your podcasting efforts!
• Join PodMatch to find guests for your show or to find shows to be a guest on! It's an incredible resource!

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two dogs, her soul cat Giorgio and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.