More than you might think.

In this solo episode, Faithann Basore explores how seasonal themes can make your networking introductions more memorable, more relevant, and easier for others to act on. Rather than giving a generic description of your business, you'll learn how to connect your referral ask to situations people are already thinking about and discussing.

You'll hear practical examples for service-based businesses, home services, virtual assistants, health and wellness professionals, and more. Faithann also shares two simple referral-seeding questions that help your network bring you up naturally in conversations without sounding salesy.

When you've ever struggled to help people remember who to refer to you, this episode will give you a fresh approach that aligns your message with what's already happening in your prospects' lives.

• Why seasonal relevance increases attention during networking introductions
• How to use graduation and moving season in your referral ask
• Creative ways to connect your business to kids being home for the summer
• Fourth of July networking pitch ideas and referral opportunities
• Using holidays and seasonal events as metaphors in testimonials
• How to position your service as a "vacation from" a common problem
• Why people refer friends, not salespeople
• Two referral-seeding questions that make introductions feel natural:
  • "What would it be like if...?"
  • "Have you considered...?"

The best networking pitches don't simply describe what you do. They help people recognize a situation, hear the words a prospect might say, and know exactly how to introduce the idea of working with you. Seasonal themes give you a ready-made way to create relevance and increase referrals.

What would it be like to walk into your next networking meeting confident that your pitch is clear, memorable, and easy for others to refer?

Book a free 15-minute discovery call to see if a Pitch Strategy Session is the right next step for you.

Faithann Basore is the founder of The Networker's Tour Guide and Premium OKC Networking. She helps business owners create stronger networking conversations, clearer referral asks, and elevator pitches that make it easier for others to send referrals.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

"The best pitches paint a picture of who you're looking for, and the best pitches put the actual words your clients are saying into the pitch."

In this episode of Business Networking and Referrals, host Faithann Basore sits down with Kelly Burton, owner of Boards by Kelly, to tackle one of the most common fears networkers face: how to confidently enter conversations when you're attending an event alone.

Kelly shares a real-life experience from a recent networking event where the friends she expected to see never showed up, leaving her to navigate a room full of strangers. Together, Faithann and Kelly discuss practical networking strategies that help turn awkward moments into meaningful connections.

You'll learn how to identify approachable groups, use curiosity to overcome self-consciousness, give genuine compliments that spark conversation, and gracefully exit conversations when it's time to meet new people. They also discuss the importance of building authentic relationships, networking with competitors, and creating positive interactions that lead to referrals over time.

Whether you're brand new to networking or simply looking to feel more confident in unfamiliar rooms, this episode offers actionable advice you can put to work at your very next event.

• What to do when you arrive at a networking event and don't know anyone
• How the "Three Question Reset" can help calm networking anxiety
• How to identify "open twos" and "open threes" and confidently join conversations already in progress
• How to enter existing conversations without feeling intrusive
• Why curiosity is one of the most powerful networking tools
• Conversation starters that create genuine connection
• How to gracefully leave a conversation and meet new people
• Why networking is about positive interactions, not immediate referrals
• The value of building relationships with competitors

Kelly Burton is the owner of Boards by Kelly, an Oklahoma-based charcuterie board business that creates memorable food experiences for weddings, corporate events, graduations, engagement parties, and special celebrations. Alongside her sister Abby, Kelly has built a thriving business focused on making the event planning process effortless for clients while delivering beautiful, customized charcuterie displays.

• Boards by Kelly: Boards by Kelly Website
• Instagram: @boardsbykelly.okc
• Subscribe to Kelly's newsletter, The Gouda Life
• Listen to Faithann's episode: The Three Question Reset
• Learn more about the We Rise Conference: We Rise Conference

Interested in personalized networking support? Schedule a discovery call with Faithann to explore ways to make networking easier, more enjoyable, and more effective for your business.

If you're ready to become more confident in networking rooms, strengthen your referral strategy, or develop a memorable introduction that opens doors, connect with Faithann Basore through The Networker's Tour Guide.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

In this solo episode of the Business Networking & Referrals Podcast, Faithann Basore breaks down how to make the most of those longer networking presentations that happen inside referral groups, networking organizations, chambers, and industry-exclusive meetings.

Whether you’re giving a 5-minute feature presentation in a weekly networking group or paying for extra speaking time at a monthly mixer, this episode will help you stop blending in and start creating real excitement around your business.

Faithann shares:

• the biggest mistakes networkers make during feature presentations,
• why preparation matters more than people realize,
• how audience engagement changes everything,
• and why your energy sets the ceiling for the entire room.

You’ll also hear a powerful story from Faithann’s time teaching Zumba that completely changed the way she thinks about speaking to groups.

• How to make your networking presentations more engaging
• Why your audience mirrors your energy
• The danger of relying too heavily on slides
• How to prepare so you stay within your time limit
• Creative ways to involve your audience during presentations
• Why storytelling is one of the most powerful networking tools
• How to describe an ideal referral during a feature presentation
• Why self-deprecating humor hurts your credibility

• BNI members
• Chamber members
• Weekly networking groups
• Referral-based business owners
• Entrepreneurs who get nervous speaking in front of groups
• Anyone giving 5–10 minute feature presentations

Thinking about improving your next networking presentation?

If you’d like support creating a specific plan based on your industry, your ideal referrals, and how much time you have to speak, hop on a discovery call with Faithann.

This call is designed to help you explore whether a deeper strategy session would be a good fit for your goals and networking style.

Whether you’re preparing for a 5-minute feature presentation, a networking spotlight, or a longer referral talk, Faithann can help you determine what kind of support would best help you feel more confident, more prepared, and more engaging when it’s your turn to speak.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

In this honest solo episode, Faithann Basore shares the story behind a production mistake in Episode 78—and the important networking lessons it revealed about trust, relationships, and laying a strong foundation over time.

If you’ve ever:

• forgotten to reply to an email
• stepped on someone’s toes in a networking room
• or felt embarrassed after making a mistake…

this episode will help you move forward with more confidence and grace.

Faithann walks through practical ways to build strong networking relationships that can withstand human mistakes—and how generosity, humility, and consistency create trust over time.

• Why strong relationships can survive small mistakes
• How to build a networking foundation rooted in trust and generosity
• The importance of mentors and accountability in business networking
• Why specific feedback is more helpful than vague advice
• How to apologize well without becoming defensive
• When to move on after a mistake—and how to take your cues from others
• A courageous question to ask when a referral doesn’t come your way

Mistakes don’t destroy relationships overnight.

As Faithann shares:

“Mistakes are okay, as long as you have a solid foundation and you own up to them.”

The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is building relationships strong enough to handle imperfection.

How to gradually build mentor relationships through specific, low-pressure requests.

Why every business owner needs people who can offer honest feedback and perspective.

How small acts of grace strengthen your networking foundation over time.

How to let people fully express hurt feelings instead of rushing them to move on.

A respectful question you can ask when you thought a referral would come your way.

Resources & Next Steps

If networking feels overwhelming and you’d like support building a clear networking strategy:

👉 Book a discovery call 

Want stronger one-to-one conversations?

👉 Download 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

It’s usually not the person with the most polished elevator pitch. It’s the person who makes others feel comfortable, included, and genuinely heard.

In this solo episode, Faithann Basore shares 4 simple ways to bring more delight to your networking conversations so people naturally want to talk with you again, remember you later, and eventually trust you enough to refer you.

You’ll learn how small conversational habits—many of them almost invisible—can completely change the way people experience you in networking rooms.

• How to make people feel more comfortable in conversations
• Why being a “tour guide” in group conversations builds trust quickly
• Why bringing interrupted people back into the conversation matters
• How storytelling makes you more memorable and magnetic
• A simple phrase that invites deeper, richer conversations
• How analogies make your stories easier to remember

Catch people up when they join late, reduce confusion, and help everyone feel included.

When someone gets talked over, help them finish their thought.

Use phrases like:

“I feel like there’s a story there.”

Stories naturally create deeper and more memorable conversations.

Use analogies and relatable comparisons to make your stories easier to understand and remember.

When you’re ready to feel more confident in networking rooms and develop stories that create curiosity and connection:

👉 Book a discovery call 

Want better one-to-one conversations?

👉 Download 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources 

Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

In this episode, Faithann Basore sits down with Lizette Clouta for a live coaching session to build a clear, referral-driven 60-second presentation. Together, they move from a general introduction to a structured, story-based pitch that gives people in the room specific clues to listen for.

If you’ve ever felt unsure what to say during your weekly introduction—or like people still don’t “get” how to refer you—this episode walks you through exactly how to fix that.

• Why your 60-second presentation is not a commercial—it’s a clue-giving exercise
• How to use a recent client story to create clarity and relevance
• The importance of a specific referral ask (not “anyone who…”)
• How to give your network language they can actually use
• Why repeating the same message multiple weeks in a row increases referrals

Faithann walks Lizette through a simple framework:

1. Name + Business (clear and confident)
2. Recent client result (testimonial-style)
3. Specific referral ask (who exactly you’re looking for)
4. What they’re saying/feeling (recognition cues)
5. What to say (give your network a question to ask)
6. Clear next step (how to connect you)
7. Repeat your name + business

Most people struggle with their 60-second because they try to explain their business.

But your job in a networking room is different: 👉 Help others recognize when they’re standing in the middle of a referral for you

Clarity creates referrals. Specificity creates action. Repetition creates results.

When you’re in a networking group and want help crafting a 60-second presentation that actually drives referrals:

👉 Book a referral clarity session

When you want better one-to-one conversations:

👉 Download 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources 

Connect with Lizette: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/

If a friend or business connection came to mind while you were listening—someone you genuinely want to see thrive—send this episode their way.

In this episode, Faithann Basore shares her 3-Question Networking Reset—a simple, intentional way to shift your mindset before entering any networking meeting or one-to-one. Instead of walking in distracted or reactive, this reset helps you become more present, more curious, and more referable.

Faithann explains how a quick pause—right after you park your car or before you walk into a room—can completely change how you show up, what you notice, and the opportunities you create.

You’ll learn how to move from “just attending” networking events to walking in with clarity, purpose, and awareness.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why a mental reset before networking matters more than most people realize
• How to calm your nervous system and become more present before entering a room
• The 3 questions that help you become more referable in any networking environment
• How to recognize opportunities for yourself and others in real time
• Why small behaviors (like communication and follow-through) impact your referral reputation

The 3-Question Networking Reset

Before walking into your next networking meeting, ask yourself:

1. Will my behavior today reinforce to others that I’m referable?
2. What opportunities are here waiting for me?
3. What opportunities do I have for others in this room that I just don’t know about yet?

When you walk in with these questions in mind, you show up differently—and people feel that.

Hop on a discovery call when you’d like support finding more opportunities in the networking rooms you’re already in.

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 Premium OKC Networking — get access to Faithann’s curated networking calendar, community forum, and exclusive trainings.

Membership starts at $95/year.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

In this episode of the Business Networking & Referrals for Entrepreneurs | The Networker’s Tour Guide, host Faithann Basore shares a simple but powerful strategy to help you navigate networking rooms with clarity and intention.

This episode introduces the 1–2–3 Method, a practical framework for categorizing the people in the room so you can focus your time, build stronger relationships, and create more referral opportunities.

Instead of guessing who to talk to—or defaulting to the people you already know—this method helps you move people from unfamiliar to trusted connections over time.

• How to confidently navigate large networking events • The difference between your “ones,” “twos,” and “threes” • Where to spend the majority of your time in a networking room • How to build rapport and create curiosity in conversations • Why familiar faces can actually hold you back if you’re not intentional • How to make new people feel comfortable and create positive first interactions • When to ask deeper questions—and when it’s too early

Networking isn’t about talking to everyone—it’s about being intentional with who you talk to and how you spend your time.

When you understand how to move people from: 👉 unfamiliar (3s) → familiar (2s) → trusted (1s)

you create a natural path to stronger relationships and consistent referrals.

In this episode, Faithann mentions Sarah Golding, who is stepping in to support local business owners affected by the sudden closure of The Painted Tree.

If you or someone you know could use guidance, encouragement, or a place to connect with other makers, you can find Sarah here:

👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/makersinbusiness

✨ 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: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation wondering “Did I miss something?” — this episode is for you.

Nikki shares how small moments in conversation can lead to big opportunities… if you know what to listen for and what to say next.

• What a buying signal really is (and why most people miss them) • How to confidently respond when someone shows interest • Why asking simple questions can move conversations forward • The biggest mistake networkers make after someone shows curiosity • How to issue invitations without feeling pushy or salesy • Why “I’m not in sales” could be costing you opportunities

📚 About Nikki Rausch

Nikki Rausch is the CEO of Sales Maven, an organization dedicated to authentic selling. With more than 25 years of sales experience, she helps entrepreneurs and small business owners learn how to sell successfully—without feeling pushy or inauthentic.

She is the author of Buying Signals and works with clients through her SalesMaven Society to build confidence and close more business through relationship-based sales.

Nikki has generously shared her Sales Follow-Up Made Easy Guide with listeners of this episode.

If you’ve ever wondered what to say after a networking conversation or how to follow up without feeling awkward, this guide gives you:

• Proven follow-up strategies that increase conversions • Simple scripts to make follow-up conversations feel natural • Techniques to stay top-of-mind without being pushy

It’s a practical next step to help you turn great conversations into real business.

🔗 Connect with Nikki

🌐 https://yoursalesmaven.com/

📚 Buying Signals

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkirausch/

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The 3 biggest networking follow-up mistakes to avoid
• How to follow up without sounding awkward or pushy
• A simple technique to book more one-to-one meetings
• When to let go of a connection vs. when to re-engage
• How to turn one conversation into multiple referral opportunities
• Why active listening during the event determines your results after

Networking doesn’t end when the meeting is over—it’s just getting started. The more intentional and present you are during the event, the easier it becomes to follow up, build trust, and create opportunities afterward. As Faithann shares, listening actively in the room leads to meaningful follow-up conversations later.

Simple strategies Faithann has learned from Nikki Rausch—like clearly stating where you met someone and offering specific times to connect—can dramatically increase your response rate and help you build stronger business relationships.

Resources & Next Steps

When you want help improving your follow-up messages, networking strategy, or referral language, Faithann offers personalized coaching to help you turn conversations into real business growth.

👉 Book a discovery call

When you want help choosing the right rooms, clarifying your networking strategy, and building a personalized plan, Faithann offers a 30-minute strategy session to help you network with confidence and intention.

👉 Book your 30-minute strategy session

If you're in OKC and ready to take networking seriously, check out Premium OKC Networking—a curated calendar and community designed to help you find the right rooms, build relationships, and stay consistent.

Know someone who leaves networking events wondering what to do next? Share this episode with them.

Want even more networking resources?  Read The Networker's Tour Guide blog here.

In this episode of The Networker’s Tour Guide Podcast, host Faithann Basore sits down with Oklahoma City networking leader Sybil Hale, founder of Mix and Mingle Business Networking and owner of Pros Make Ready Sanitizing Services.

Sybil shares the story behind the rapid growth of Mix and Mingle—from a single lunch meeting to multiple business networking chapters across the Oklahoma City metro—and the core principles that make networking rooms welcoming, effective, and relationship-driven.

They discuss how strong networking communities help business owners build referrals, why collaboration beats competition, and how consistency and clarity make networking groups easier for new entrepreneurs to join.

If you’re a business owner looking to grow your network, build relationships, and create referral opportunities, this episode offers practical insights on what makes business networking actually work.

Key topics in this episode:

• Business networking strategies for entrepreneurs • How networking groups build relationships and referrals • The story behind Mix and Mingle Business Networking • Why collaboration beats competition in networking rooms • Tips for starting and leading a networking community • How consistency builds trust in networking groups

🌐 Mix & Mingle Business Networking (Find a Chapter) https://mnmbusinessnetworking.com/chapters

📘 Mix & Mingle Business Networking on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558392294037

🌐 Pros Make Ready Sanitizing Services https://www.prosmakeready.com/

📘 Pros Make Ready on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/prosmakeready 

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

This episode highlights the importance of trust, communication, and consistency when working alongside realtors and the professionals who support them. Candace and Jerica share practical insight into what makes someone referral-worthy, how relationships deepen over time, and what it really takes to earn a spot on a trusted referral list.

This conversation centers on character, follow-through, and how professionals show up when it matters most.

• What makes a professional easy to refer
• How real estate partnerships are built through consistency
• The role of communication in high-stakes transactions
• Why responsiveness and reliability matter more than perfection
• Practical ways to strengthen relationships with realtors and industry partners

Whether you’re a lender, contractor, title professional, inspector, photographer, or service provider, this episode will help you better understand how to show up in a way that builds confidence and long-term referral trust.

If you’re looking for guidance on homeowners, auto, life, or coverage advocacy in Oklahoma and beyond, you can connect with Candace here:

🌐 Website: https://www.shelterinsurance.com/CA/agent/CMCUNNINGHAM

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CandaceMCunninghamShelterInsurance

📞 Phone: 405-582-2209

Candace is licensed in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Indiana, Illinois, and Nebraska, and is passionate about helping clients understand their coverage and feel confident in their protection.

If you’re buying or selling in the Oklahoma City Metro — especially Norman, Moore, or South Oklahoma City — you can connect with Jerica here:

🌐 Website: https://www.jericapoundrealtygroup.com/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JericaPoundRealtyGroup

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fishingrealtor2.0

📞 Phone: (405) 317-7858

Jerica and her team specialize in residential real estate and are known for their strong client communication, market insight, and relationship-driven approach.

Looking for tools and practical resources to help you network with more clarity and confidence? Visit thenetworkerstourguide.net to explore articles, podcast episodes, and networking resources designed to help you grow your business through strong relationships.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Faithann opens the episode with a brief update on the Realtor-Ready conversations, sharing that there is one more dedicated Realtor-Ready episode coming next—and that additional Realtor-Ready discussions will be sprinkled throughout the year. These conversations are designed to help professionals who work alongside realtors better understand how to build trust, credibility, and long-term referral relationships.

From there, the focus shifts to one-to-one conversations and how to use them more intentionally—especially when meeting with realtors and professionals who support the real estate industry.

Rather than treating one-to-ones as casual coffee meetings or surface-level check-ins, Faithann breaks down how to approach these conversations with purpose, curiosity, and clarity so they lead to stronger relationships over time.

• Why one-to-one meetings matter more than most people realize
• How to approach one-to-ones with realtors and real-estate-adjacent professionals
• What kinds of questions lead to better understanding and stronger trust
• How to move beyond “what do you do?” conversations
• Why consistency and follow-through are key to becoming referral-worthy

This episode is especially helpful for business owners, sales professionals, and service providers who want to be more intentional in their networking—particularly when building relationships within the real estate ecosystem.

🎧 If you want your one-to-one meetings to feel more natural, more strategic, and more effective, this episode will give you practical insight you can use right away.

Looking for tools, guides, and additional resources to help you network with more clarity and confidence? Visit the networkerstourguide.net to explore articles, podcast episodes, and practical resources designed to support your networking journey.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Rather than focusing on polished pitches or self-promotion, this discussion highlights the relational behaviors and professional habits that build trust over time. JoAnne and Mona share real-world insight into how strong referral partnerships are formed, maintained, and strengthened through consistency, service, and a client-first mindset.

Listeners will gain clarity on how to show up in networking rooms with credibility, how to become someone others feel confident recommending, and why long-term relationships matter more than short-term wins.

• What professionals look for before recommending a referral partner

• How trust is built through consistency and follow-through

• The role of client care in sustaining strong referral relationships

• How networking with intention leads to better partnerships

This episode is especially valuable for business owners and service providers who work alongside realtors or want to become a trusted resource within the real estate community.

🎧 Listen in to learn what separates a good networker from a referral-worthy one.

Connect with JoAnne:

🌐 Website

📸 Instagram

📘 Facebook

Connect with Mona:

🌐 Website

📘 Facebook

▶️ YouTube

✨ 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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

This episode features guests Dyndi Gibson and Kim Case, who join the conversation to explore what it actually looks like to be “realtor-ready” in networking environments — beyond business cards, pitches, and surface-level conversations.

Together, they unpack how realtors evaluate potential referral partners, what builds trust over time, and how networkers can position themselves as professionals realtors feel confident referring their clients to.

• What “realtor-ready” really means from the perspective of professionals in the industry
• How trust and credibility are built before referrals ever happen
• Practical ways to show up prepared, relevant, and referral-worthy

This conversation is especially valuable for contractors, service providers, and real-estate-adjacent professionals who want to strengthen relationships with realtors and become a trusted resource — not just another name in the room.

The Realtor-Ready Networker Series is designed to help networkers understand how to communicate more effectively with realtors, recognize buying and referral signals, and build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships within the real estate ecosystem.

🎧 Listen in and learn how to move from being “present” in networking rooms to being genuinely referral-ready.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Connect With Dyndi - McGraw Realty:

🌐 Website 

📘 Facebook

📸 Instagram 

Connect With Kim - Smith Brothers Abstract:

🌐 Website

📘 Facebook

Networking in the real estate industry can feel especially overwhelming when you’re surrounded by others who offer the same services. Dirk shares what it really takes to build trust with realtors, why honesty and integrity matter, and how staying true to your values strengthens long-term relationships.

Together, Faithann and Dirk discuss common challenges trades professionals face when networking with realtors, including navigating competition, providing value beyond the sale, and earning trust over time. Dirk also explains why collaboration with others in your industry can lead to stronger relationships, increased confidence, and better referral opportunities.

This episode is a must-listen for home inspectors, roofers, lenders, and other real estate-adjacent professionals who want to become truly realtor-ready and build relationships that last.

Becoming realtor-ready means showing up with integrity, providing real value, and allowing trust to build over time. When you focus on honesty, collaboration, and service, strong and lasting realtor relationships naturally follow.

Listen to Dirk's first episode appearance on the podcast here.

Follow Dirk-

• 🔗 Website

• 📺 YouTube

• 👥 Facebook 

Follow Faithann-

Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Jackie shares a simple engagement strategy that takes just 15 minutes a day and helps business owners create visibility, trust, and connection before showing up to events.

When relationships are warmed up online, in-person introductions feel easier and more natural. Faithann explains that once trust is built digitally, you simply need to show up—without overthinking it.

Jackie introduces a repeatable way to engage genuinely on social media:

• A – Acknowledge the post with specificity

• T – Tip add a helpful insight from your expertise

• Q – Question invite conversation

This approach increases replies, visibility, and real connection.

This is not a “follow everyone” strategy. Jackie emphasizes focusing on:

• primary referral partners who serve the same clients

• secondary visibility partners whose audiences include homeowners

Consistent visibility builds familiarity—and familiarity builds trust.

If posting feels overwhelming:

• aim for one post per week

• spend 15 minutes a day engaging

With the right people in your feed, engagement becomes faster and more effective.

Download Jackie's 15 Minute Social Media Checklist here.

Faithann encourages professionals to stay aware of what’s happening in their partners’ industries. Understanding industry shifts builds credibility and leads to better conversations and stronger relationships.

• Jackie’s 15-minute daily engagement checklist  

Connect with Jackie

• Website - https://www.weassistbusiness.com/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/weassistmarketing
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiebenjamin/

Join Faithann's Buying Signals for Networkers Mastermind, designed to help networkers recognize buying signals and invite next steps with confidence—without sounding pushy. Both in-person and virtual options are available. The mastermind is 8 Weeks and begins in early Feb. 2026. 

Connect with Faithann:

• Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

• Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

• Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Rather than chasing new audiences from scratch, this conversation explores how collaboration, education, and thoughtful referrals can expand reach, build rapport, and bring the right people together in a natural, non-salesy way.

• Why collaborating with professionals who don’t compete but serve the same clients is one of the smartest ways to grow your network

• How Molly’s approach to eyewear begins with deep lifestyle questions, not products

• Why photographers, graphic designers, estheticians, and other creatives often have unique optical needs they don’t realize can be supported

• How education-based collaborations (webinars, lunch & learns, PDFs) build credibility and trust faster than traditional networking

• Why brick-and-mortar businesses should invite people into their space even when they don’t need the service yet

You don’t need more people—you need better alignment. When you collaborate with professionals who already have the trust of the audience you want to reach, everyone wins.

Molly Zang is the owner of Novel Optical, a woman-owned, independent optical shop in downtown Oklahoma City specializing in handcrafted, toxin-free eyewear. Novel Optical focuses exclusively on eyewear—offering highly personalized fittings, thoughtful recommendations, and a welcoming, colorful experience that feels anything but clinical.

• Website: noveloptical.com

• Instagram & Facebook: @NovelOptical

• Location: Corner of 9th & Hudson, Midtown Oklahoma City

Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Join Faithann's Buying Signals for Networkers Mastermind, designed to help networkers recognize buying signals and invite next steps with confidence—without sounding pushy. Both in-person and virtual options are available. The mastermind is 8 Weeks and begins in early Feb. 2026. 

Join the Buying Signals HERE.

As you listen, ask yourself: Who serves the same people I do—but in a different way? That might be your next best collaboration.

If you’d like help identifying or structuring collaborations like the ones discussed in this episode, Faithann invites you to reach out via email or message her on Facebook.  Email Faithann at faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

This episode is a best-of compilation featuring insights from the final ten guests, each answering one simple question:

What do you like to see when you network—and what do you not like to see?

Their answers reveal clear patterns about what makes networking feel welcoming, effective, and authentic—and what quietly pushes people away.

• Open, inclusive conversations

• Authentic, direct communication

• Hosts who actively welcome people

• Early arrivals and relaxed connections

• Education-driven events

• Vulnerability and real conversations

• Booking next steps while still in the room

• Closed circles and ignored newcomers

• Hidden agendas or forced “friendship”

• Being sold to instead of listened to

• Low energy or unwelcoming rooms

Find the Full Episodes from Each Guest Below:

Episode 31: Authenticity Across Platforms-Why Your Brand Voice Must Match with Patricia Viscount

Episode 33: Rewiring Your Brain for Confidence and Connection in Networking with Brandi Gilstrap 

Episode 34: Treat It Like a Business-MLM Success with Lupita Linda

Episode 35: Taking Care of the Underdogs-Building Lasting Relationships with Mendy from the Honey Do Checklist

Episode 37: Voice, Confidence, & Connection-How a Professional Voiceover Uses Networking with Connor Quin

Episode 38: Building Community & Following Up with Intention with Rodger Taylor

Episode 43: From Visibility to Profitability-Building Trust Through Referrals with Dirk Houglum

Episode 44: What's In Their Pockets? Stories, Scams, and Google Review Gold with Garrett and Nolan

Episode 45: Building Bold Businesses & Email Funnels That Convert with MacKenzie Morris

Episode 47: Creating Spaces That Last-Businesses, Retreats, and Community with Danielle Throckmorton

In the coming weeks, Faithann will be launching a special series within the podcast focused on networking in and around the real estate industry. You’ll hear from realtors and professionals who serve them, with insight into how relationships are built and referrals are earned across connected industries.

Featured Invitation

Faithann also shares details about her upcoming Buying Signals for Networkers Mastermind, designed to help networkers recognize buying signals and invite next steps with confidence—without sounding pushy. Both in-person and virtual options are available. The mastermind is 8 Weeks and begins in early Feb. 2026. 

Hop on the Buying Signals waitlist for first access + special pricing. https://thenetworkerstourguide.com/buyingsignals

Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Faithann reflects on two networking meetings she attended back-to-back—one where she had a full minute to speak, and another where she could only share her name and business. From those experiences, she breaks down how confident networkers tailor their words to fit the moment.

• Why your introduction should change based on whether you have 5 seconds, 30 seconds, or a full minute

• How to think of your intro like gift wrapping—matching the words to the size of the opportunity

• When a short descriptor or tagline can add clarity without breaking the rules

• Why visibility in the room still matters, even when you can’t say much

• Why networking during the holidays can actually create stronger referral opportunities

Faithann also shares details about her upcoming Buying Signals for Networkers Mastermind, designed to help networkers recognize buying signals and invite next steps with confidence—without sounding pushy. Both in-person and virtual options are available. The mastermind is 8 Weeks and begins in early Feb. 2026. 

Hop on the Buying Signals waitlist for first access + special pricing. 👉https://thenetworkerstourguide.com/buyingsignals

Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Previous Episodes Mentioned:

Episode 55: Networking in Unbridled Potential 

Episode 17: Your Perfect Elevator Pitch (Part 2) with Nate Howell

Go and network, my friend—and make every interaction count.

Faithann also shares why recognizing buying signals matters just as much as declining with grace. When you know how to listen for curiosity and readiness in conversation, you won’t miss natural opportunities to invite the right people to take the next step. Details about the upcoming Buying Signals for Networkers Mastermind—based on Nikki Rausch’s Buying Signals—are included for listeners who want guided practice and deeper confidence in these conversations.

Hop on the Buying Signals waitlist for first access + special pricing. 👉 https://thenetworkerstourguide.com/buyingsignals

Previous Episodes Mentioned in This Episode:

Episode 61: The Race to Positive Interactions- Networking When Others Do What You Do

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 Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

This week, a member asked:

“What should someone do when there are several people in their same industry at a networking meeting?”

That question sparked today’s episode.

To answer it, I walk through what I’d say to a coaching client facing that same frustration — someone like “Beth,” a photographer who feels overshadowed in rooms where two or three other photographers regularly show up. Before talking strategy, we start with mindset. And yes… that mindset comes with a very Faithann version of the Cinderella story — fairy godmother included — to help reframe the idea of “competition.”

Because here’s the truth: You’re not competing with the title on someone’s name tag. You’re building relationships through the kinds of positive interactions only you can create.

Your identity isn’t “photographer,” “planner,” “inspector,” or “agent.” Your value is your problem-solving perspective — the one thing that can’t be copied, xeroxed, or duplicated.

Networking isn’t about eliminating competition. It’s about stacking enough positive interactions that people begin to think: “I trust you with this referral.”

If everyone in the room has the same “blue eyes,” what truly sets you apart is everything else you bring into the room — your voice, your rapport, your curiosity, your generosity, your approach.

You’ll hear practical strategies including:

• Joining an industry-exclusive group (and the mindset required once you do)

• Starting your own group if no seat opens

• Using paid membership tiers within open groups to increase exposure

• Serving in leadership to create more natural interactions

• Building abundance-based relationships with others in your same industry

You’ll learn:

• Why badmouthing or subtly undercutting others will always backfire

• How scarcity energy repels referrals

• How to acknowledge peers with abundance and tact

• A simple seating strategy to make pitch time more comfortable

Join my Facebook community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook — I go live every week at 5 PM with networking tips and strategies.

Explore Premium OKC Networking: If you're local to Oklahoma City and want one trusted place to find vetted networking events, discussion threads, organizer videos, and networking courses — membership is just $65/year.

✨ 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

Previous Episodes Mentioned in the Episode:

Episode 53 with Leah Rose Tangren

Episode 43 with Dirk Houglum

✨ 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

In this episode, Faithann takes you behind the scenes of her Live at Five trainings inside The Networker’s Tour Guide Facebook group. You’ll hear a curated compilation of four short lives (from August–November 2025) all focused on one thing: helping you use your introduction time with confidence, clarity, and curiosity—without rambling or listing everything you do.

You’ll also hear Faithann reflect on why repeating powerful concepts matters. Just like the decision-making framework she learned from former guest Danielle Baily, some ideas need to be heard more than once before they show up in how we actually behave in the room.

If you’ve ever felt rushed, scattered, or apologetic during your pitch time, this episode will feel like a mini-workshop you can replay again and again.

• How to weave gratitude into your pitch Use one of your weekly pitches each year to publicly thank someone in your networking group—like the person who invited you, a member you look up to, or your leadership team—and why this “word hug” builds trust and goodwill in the room.

• Why going over your time hurts your credibility What really happens when you say, “Just one more thing…” after your time is clearly up—and how it impacts both your reputation and the leader’s ability to end the meeting on time.

• The “elevator” analogy for your elevator pitch How to take your listeners down into one clear scenario (who you’re looking for, what they’re saying/feeling/doing) and then gently bring them back up with a simple way to bring you up in conversation—instead of doing a sideways, “Tasmanian devil” list of everything you offer.

• What Sesame Street can teach you about your introduction Why you should skip caveats, apologies, and “I was going to talk about…” and jump straight into your name, your business, and the story or scenario you want people to remember.

• How to bring “fairy godmother energy” to your pitch A fresh way to see yourself as a powerful problem-solver—waving one clear magic wand to help clients get from stuck to the result they really want, instead of trying to cram tacos, Mustangs, and trips to Tahiti into one minute. 😉

• Five simple tweaks to make your pitch more memorable Including:

  • Saying your name and business twice (beginning and end)

  • Enunciating clearly if your name/business is uncommon

  • Using pauses to let important phrases land

  • Matching your tone to the emotion of your story

  • Focusing on one kind of referral per pitch, not all of them

• How repetition helps you actually use these ideas Why hearing these concepts multiple times makes it more likely they’ll come to mind in the moment—right before you stand up to speak.

• Danielle Baily – Decision-making framework that inspired Faithann’s reminder that some ideas need to be heard more than once

• Episode 27- The Experts We Meet Part 3 with Danielle Baily

• The Networker’s Tour Guide Facebook Group – Faithann’s free community where she hosts weekly Live at Five trainings, invites members to share offers and events, and helps you sharpen your pitch in real time

🎧 After you listen: Ask yourself, “What’s one small tweak I can make to my next pitch—this week?” Then try it at your next meeting and notice how the room responds.

✨ 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

As we head into Thanksgiving week, there’s no better time to pause and appreciate the business relationships that make our work meaningful. Whether you call them your business besties, referral partners, or the people who cheer you on behind the scenes, these connections deserve intentional care — not just during the holidays, but all year long.

In this solo episode, Faithann shares six practical ways (plus a bonus!) to nurture the relationships that already support you, refer to you, and make your business better. These are simple, thoughtful habits that deepen trust, strengthen rapport, and remind people that you see them — and value them.

If you’ve been focused on growing your network, this episode is a refreshing reminder: Sometimes the greatest opportunities come from the relationships you already have.

Faithann explains why the people already in your ecosystem — the supportive ones, the collaborative ones, the soul-feeding ones — should never be taken for granted. These relationships deserve ongoing attention.

Nothing communicates gratitude and professionalism more than following up quickly and personally when someone sends you an opportunity.

A quick check-in (“How did it go?”) can mean the world to someone hosting or organizing an event you had to miss.

A small message at the right time deepens bonds and reconnects you with people you care about.

Faithann shares why this question nourishes long-term partnerships and how to use it with both new and established connections.

Faithann shares a personal story about her daughter — and how understanding someone’s best day helps you recreate the essence of what matters most to them.

From a recent networking moment, Faithann shares a tiny phrase that lit her up — and how to use that insight to encourage others.

A simple, meaningful way to introduce two people who don’t know each other — and expand opportunities for everyone involved.

As you gather with family, friends, or your holiday tables this week, take a moment to appreciate the business people who’ve walked alongside you this year. A message, a check-in, or a thoughtful introduction might be the very thing that strengthens that relationship for years to come.

Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Previous Episodes Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode 41: How Do I Bring You Up and How Do I Support You-Answers Every Networker Needs

Ep 54: Zoo Keeping For Leaders-How To Build Stronger Networking Teams with Kristen Partridge

Vanessa Van Edwards (mentioned in this episode)

https://www.instagram.com/vvanedwards/

In this inspiring and practical episode, host Faithann Basore sits down with Sara Golding, a dual business owner who bridges the worlds of bookkeeping and handcrafted products. Sara shares insights that every maker, creator, and product-based business owner needs to hear—especially as the holiday season approaches.

Sara’s message is simple but powerful: your customers aren’t buying ingredients—they’re buying results and experiences. From dry skin to gift-giving anxiety, Sara shows how to shift your focus from product details to customer transformation.

You’ll learn how to talk about your products in ways that connect emotionally, stay compliant with industry regulations, and ultimately build customer trust that lasts. Plus, Faithann and Sara dive into one of Faithann’s favorite concepts—the Tasmanian Devil Pitch—and how simplifying your message helps people remember and refer you more easily.

This week, think about the makers and creators in your network. Reach out and ask them, “How can I bring you up at my Thanksgiving dinner table?” Be intentional about giving referrals that help handcrafted business owners thrive during the holidays.

Connect with Sara Golding

• 💼 Bookkeeping & Strategy: SunnyGirlBusinessSolutions.com

• 🕯️ Handcrafted Gifts & Wholesale: SunnyWishes.com

• 💬 Join her Facebook Group: Makers in Business — a community for product-based entrepreneurs 

Connect with Faithann:

Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

Join Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

Faithann and Sarah explore how to bridge the gap between specialized knowledge and everyday understanding, why respect is essential when communicating expertise, and how clear storytelling builds credibility and trust. Sarah also shares her journey from research communications at the University of Oklahoma to entrepreneurship, along with powerful lessons about curiosity, empathy, and simplifying without losing depth.

💡 You’ll learn:

• Why complicated doesn’t have to mean confusing

• The balance between clarity and respect when explaining your work

• How to “meet people where they are” in communication and networking

• Why authentic simplicity often outperforms trying to sound smart

Plus, you’ll hear practical takeaways for business owners, from explaining technical services to helping clients understand your value—without jargon.

Connect with Sarah:

Website: Serif+Sway

Linked IN: Sarah Warren, M.P. W.

Facebook: Serif + Sway

Instagram: @serifandsway

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 Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

In this solo episode, Faithann continues the conversation from Episode 55 (Networking in Unbridled Potential) by exploring how to bring just enough order to the chaos of networking — the kind that helps people feel safe, seen, and confident to connect.

You’ll learn how to:

• Build “fences” around your networking meetings that keep the energy high but focused.

• Create clear agendas that build trust and reduce confusion.

• Lead with clarity in your marketing, directions, and food choices so attendees feel cared for and come back again.

Because when leaders provide consistency and safety, conversations flow freely and connections grow stronger.

💻 Want to dive deeper? You can also read this episode’s topic in blog form on The Networker’s Tour Guide blog: 👉 Order in Networking: Creating Safety and Clarity for Connection

🎧 Tune in to discover why confusion repels and clarity attracts — and how to build a networking experience that invites real connection.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the private Facebook community, The Networker’s Tour Guide — it’s free to join!

Drawing from her blog post “Confidence Grows in the Chaos of Change,” Faithann reframes the nerves and unpredictability of networking as unbridled potential — the fertile ground where confidence, relationships, and opportunity are born.

If you’ve ever walked into a mixer or meeting feeling awkward, intimidated, or unsure, this episode will help you see that chaos isn’t confusion — it’s change waiting to happen.

• Chaos = Potential: Networking “chaos” isn’t disorder — it’s where new opportunities, collaborations, and referrals begin to take shape.

• The Two Questions to Ask Before You Walk In:

  1. What opportunities are in this room for me?

  2. What opportunities do I have for others that I just don’t know about yet?

• Networking Is Change: Every conversation moves your business — and someone else’s — forward. You’re always growing toward something new.

• The Sifter Analogy: Just like soil being sifted to make room for new roots, the uncomfortable moments in networking refine you for deeper relationships.

• Reframing Awkward Interactions: Even “bad” conversations teach resilience, self-awareness, and better questions to ask next time.

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 Premium OKC Networking for $65 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses.

Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

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.

• 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.

“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

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.

• 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

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. 🦁🐬🐨🦅

Together, they explore how posture, facial expression, and even hand placement influence how others perceive you, and how to use mirroring, humor, and curiosity to strengthen your presence and authenticity in any room.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How your posture and gestures can project confidence (or insecurity) before you speak.

• Why standing during your introduction instantly boosts credibility.

• Ways to “interrupt the program” and grab attention during your 60 seconds.

• The importance of reading the room and matching others’ energy without losing your own.

• What the Yes, And principle from improv can teach you about conversation and collaboration.

• How to recover gracefully when you don’t “get the joke.”

• Tips for listening with curiosity instead of judgment to build genuine rapport.

Memorable Quotes:

“Your arms are the gateway to you. If they’re crossed, you’re telling people, ‘I don’t really want to connect.’” – Leah Rose Tangren “You can’t borrow the room’s energy — you have to bring it. Then the exchange happens.” – Faithann Basore “Yes, And allows the other person to know that you heard them, that you believe them, and that you’re contributing to the connection.” – Leah Rose Tangren

Connect with Leah Rose Tangren: Instagram: @leahrosetangren Website: Leah Rose Tangren

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

Networking is more than just conversations and business cards; it’s about building relationships that lead to real results. In this episode, Faith Ann shares how to make sure the revenue you earn from referrals reflects integrity, gratitude, and strategy.

You’ll learn: 💡 Why truth and transparency in your estimates and proposals protect your reputation and your referrers 💡 How tracking your referral revenue helps you identify which connections bring the most value 💡 Practical ways to show appreciation to those who send you business — and how that deepens your relationships 💡 When and why offering a partial refund (or an extra service) can actually strengthen your reputation 💡 How each “floor” of your networking building supports the next — leading to long-term business growth

If you’ve followed along from Episode 48 through 52, this final “floor” ties it all together. You’ll walk away with actionable ways to turn your relationships and referrals into consistent, trustworthy revenue — while staying true to your values.

🎧 Listen now and take your networking to the top floor!

👉 Referenced episodes:

• Ep. 48 – The First Floor: Tact

• Ep. 50 – The Second & Third Floors: Rapport and Trust

• Ep. 51 – The Fourth Floor: Referrals

✨ Free Resource: Want your next one-to-one meeting to go beyond swapping business cards? Download Faith Ann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a free guide to help you build genuine connections. Click here to grab yours!

Referrals are the cornerstone of networking—and in this episode, you’ll discover how to handle them with the care they deserve. Faithann breaks down both sides of the referral process:

• Receiving Referrals: Why every referral is a treasure, how to follow up quickly, and how to keep your referral partners in the loop.

• Giving Referrals: The right way to identify referral opportunities, introduce the idea of someone before the introduction itself, and craft natural language that opens doors for others.

• Best Practices: From thanking your referral sources to smoothing over hiccups, Faithann shares practical steps to make sure your referrals build trust—not break it.

• The Power of Stories: How real-world referral examples can help others grasp the true value of networking.

Faithann also shares personal stories and proven strategies to help you strengthen your referral process so that your networking efforts translate into lasting business growth.

• 💡 Free Resource: 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a simple guide to deepen conversations and make your networking more meaningful.

• 🎧 Previous Episodes in the Networking Building Series:

  • Ep. 48: Tact – The First Floor of Networking Success

  • Ep. 50: Rapport & Trust – The Second and Third Floors

• 👉 Stay tuned for the next episode, where we’ll explore the fifth floor: revenue.

Referrals are powerful—sometimes even business-saving—and when handled with care, they strengthen every relationship in your network.

Go network, my friend, and congratulations if you’ve made it to the fourth floor!

Join Faithann's free Facebook Community here.

Do you network in OKC?  Join Faithann's Premium OKC Networking platform here.

📥 Free Download: 10 Questions to Ask in a 1-2-1

Are you ready to climb higher in your networking success? In this solo episode, host Faithann Basore continues building on the “networking building” model introduced in Episode 48. After establishing tact as the ground floor, today we’re stepping onto the second and third floors—rapport and trust.

Faithann explains why rapport is the foundation for meaningful connections and how simple shifts in your conversations can make people feel valued, heard, and open to future opportunities. From asking better questions to showing genuine curiosity, you’ll discover how rapport sets the stage for the deeper work of building trust and credibility.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why interruptions and assumptions shut down opportunities.

• How to ask thoughtful questions that reveal expertise and spark stories.

• Practical ways to build rapport that shows you are friendly, open, and interested.

• Simple steps for strengthening trust and credibility in networking meetings.

• How consistency, testimonials, and one-to-ones all contribute to being remembered—and referred.

Faithann also shares personal stories (including a misstep with a business card!) that bring these lessons to life and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• 🎧 Listen to Episode 48: Tact – The First Floor of Networking Success 

• 🎧 Listen to Episode 15: Think of Everything 
• 📖 Read Tour 17: Bring a Bucket to the Well

• 💬 Join the conversation inside the Networker’s Tour Guide Facebook Group 

• Join Premium OKC Networking and be a part of Faithann's online networking hub for all the great places to network in OKC.

In this episode of the Networker’s Tour Guide podcast, host Faithann Basore sits down with Dr. Jacob Rowe of J Rowe Chiropractic in Norman, Oklahoma. Jacob shares how he went from being a college music major to following in his family’s footsteps as a chiropractor—and how networking has played a vital role in building his practice.

You’ll hear:

• Jacob’s journey from doubting chiropractic to opening his own practice.

• Why patient trust and referrals are more powerful than any marketing tool.

• The surprising lessons Jacob has learned about confidence and presenting himself in a networking group.

• How BNI helped him plant roots in a new city and grow a referral-based business.

• Practical advice for new business owners considering a networking group (hint: it takes patience and consistency).

If you’ve ever wondered how networking can impact a local service-based business—or you’re just looking for inspiration to step more confidently into your own referral group—you’ll love Jacob’s story.

📌 Connect with Dr. Jacob Rowe:

• Website: www.jrochiro.com

• Instagram: jrowechiro

👉 Share this episode with a new business owner who’s considering joining a networking group.

Join Faithann's free Facebook group, The Networker's Tour Guide, here.  Faithann goes live weekly for networking tips and tricks in the facebook group.

Powerful First Impression Download

In this solo episode of the Networker’s Tour Guide Podcast, host Faithann Basore unpacks one of the most overlooked but essential elements of networking: tact.

Faithann uses the analogy of a five-story building to show how networking success builds step by step:

1. Tact – the ground floor

2. Rapport – building genuine connection

3. Trust & Credibility – becoming reliable and respected

4. Referrals – receiving introductions and opportunities

5. Profit – the rewards that flow from it all

But here’s the truth: without tact, you’ll never get off the ground floor.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why tact is less about what you do and more about what you avoid doing

• How small assumptions can quietly close doors before rapport even starts

• The importance of language—why vulgarity or careless complaints can cost you opportunities

• What to do when someone in your industry visits your networking group (and how not to panic about “seat protection”)

• How to be aware of your words during quiet moments when everyone in the room can suddenly hear you

Faithann offers practical examples, from introducing new guests to handling awkward situations, all with the goal of helping you stay tactful, approachable, and open to new opportunities.

Takeaway: Tact may seem small, but it’s the foundation for everything that follows in networking. Handle those first impressions well, and you’ll be on your way to rapport, trust, referrals, and ultimately profit.

Resources & Links:

• Join Premium OKC Networking and be a part of Faithann's online networking hub for all the great places to network in OKC.

• Read relevant networking articles at The Networker's Tour Guide blog.
• Join Faithann's private Facebook Group, The Networker's Tour Guide.

Powerful First Impression Download

In this episode of the Networker’s Tour Guide podcast, Faithann sits down with multi-passionate entrepreneur Danielle Throckmorton—business revenue strategist, retreat host, and co-owner of T5 Plumbing. Danielle shares her insights on networking, entrepreneurship, and building sustainable businesses through community.

✨ Key Quotes from Danielle:

“I am what you would call a multi-passionate entrepreneur. I wear several different hats... a strategist, a retreat host, and a co-owner of T5 Plumbing.”

“For myself, I’m naturally an introvert. So I can extrovert really hard and almost overcompensate for the nervousness I feel inside, and then I feel like I need to recharge my batteries.”

“Sustainability comes from the community that’s around you—that’s sharing your name in a room you’re not in.”

“The environment and the culture you create can make or break an event.”

🎧 Listen in as Danielle shares how she navigates her different business roles, the importance of authentic community, and her intentional approach to curating powerful retreat experiences.

• Website: Danielle Throckmorton
• Facebook: Ladies Conquering Goals
• Retreat: Reach Retreat

Join Premium OKC Networking and be a part of Faithann's online networking hub for all the great places to network in OKC.

This special “Best Of” episode is a compilation of the first 10 guests on The Networkers’ Tour Guide Podcast. Each guest answered the same two questions:

1. What do you like to see when you network?

2. What do you not like to see when you network?

You’ll hear a wide range of honest, practical answers—from the importance of authenticity and intentional conversations to the pitfalls of card-shoving, sitting on your phone, or making it all about yourself.

These insights highlight one powerful truth: networking is about generosity, connection, and creating opportunities for others. When done well, it builds relationships that can truly expand your business and career.

If you’re a local Oklahoma City networker, don’t forget to check out Premium OKC Networking—my curated calendar and community forum designed to help you find the best events and connections in town. Join for only $65 for an entire year membership.

✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why authenticity is one of the most important traits in networking

• Simple ways to make others feel welcome and included

• What behaviors leave a bad impression at events

• How to build deeper relationships through intentional follow-ups

• Why generosity and collaboration should guide your networking efforts

🎧 Listen in to hear the best networking wisdom from our first 10 guests—and see if you agree with their answers!

Featured Guests' Links to Their Full Episode

Episode 17 Your Perfect Elevator Pitch (Part 2) with JoAnne Stiles

Episode 18 Your Perfect Elevator Pitch (Part 3) with Nate Howell

Episode 22 The Experts We Meet Part 1 with Nikki Rausch

Episode 23 The Experts We Meet Part 2 with Amy Singleton

Episode 25 How to Set Your Employees Up for Networking Success with Tara Waddle

Episode 26 How to Successfully Network as an Employee with Debra Walker

Episode 27 The Experts We Meet Part 3 with Danielle Baily

Episode 28 The Experts We Meet Part 4 with Will Yarbrough

Episode 30 The Long Game of Networking: How Building Relationships Pays Off For Years with Evonne Barrier

Episode 20 Your Perfect Pitch ( Part 5) with Guest Amy Thurman

8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this jam-packed episode of The Networker’s Tour Guide, host Faithann Basore sits down with powerhouse marketer and business strategist MacKenzie Morris. From building a snack brand at age 12 to growing an international wedding business and now coaching others to elevate their marketing systems, MacKenzie shares both her entrepreneurial wins and the mindset that fuels them.

This episode is for anyone who wants to learn how to confidently sell, network intentionally, and turn content into cash flow. MacKenzie also drops a complete five-email funnel strategy that every business owner should steal immediately.

🧠 Whether you're struggling with visibility, feel misunderstood as an entrepreneur, or want to up your email game—this episode delivers.

🔥 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why talking about your goals in networking spaces can open surprising doors

• The origin story of Granana Bites and how early sales instincts shaped her path

• How MacKenzie grew a wedding product business from $125 orders to $1800 average orders using strategic partnerships

• What most people get wrong about webinars—and how to fix it

• A complete breakdown of a 5-email sequence every business should use after a lead magnet or webinar

• How to make your networking presence more approachable (even if you’re not an extrovert)

• Tips for uncovering client pain points through conversation—not pitches

• Her two powerful client transformation stories (including one that generated $20K in 5 days!)

💡 MacKenzie's Funnel Email Formula (Save this!):

1. Delivery Email – Send the lead magnet or freebie

2. About Me Email – Build authority and connection

3. Integration Email – Teach how to use what you gave them

4. Testimonial Email – Show real results and client wins

5. Offer Email – Share how to work with you (calls to action included)

👩‍💼 About MacKenzie Morris: MacKenzie is a visibility strategist and creative marketing expert who helps brands amplify their presence, generate leads, and get paid—without burning out. She's known for building systems that convert and teaching clients how to leverage long-form content like podcasts and webinars for massive business growth.

💻 Work with MacKenzie or Learn More: Instagram | Website | Blog 

📚 Resources Mentioned:

• Mendy’s Episode on Gift Giving & Vendor Relationships

• Mini Tour 6: Six Questions to Ask that Send Awkward Silence Packing

• Book: Worthy by Jamie Kern Lima

🧭 Faithann’s Takeaway Tip: 👉 When you meet someone new, don’t just compliment their outfit—ask them, “What’s the story behind that?” People are wired for story, and it’s an easy way to move a conversation from awkward to meaningful.

🗣️ Like this episode? Share it with a fellow entrepreneur or networking enthusiast. And don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this episode, Faithann is joined by two insightful guests—Garrett Hammonds, co-owner of Hammonds Media, and Nolan Clay Rogers, spiritual guide and storyteller—for a conversation about how storytelling, relationships, and even Google reviews are powerful tools in the world of networking.

This episode explores:

• The link between storytelling and better networking

• Why older generations get taken advantage of—and how better conversations can help

• How to turn small talk into meaningful story-sharing

• The psychology behind online reviews (and why present-tense language matters!)

• How to request and respond to Google reviews effectively to boost your business credibility

• The magic question: “What made you say yes to working with me?”

Whether you're a new networker or a seasoned connector, this episode is packed with perspective shifts you’ll want to apply at your very next event.

🎯 Spotlight: The Google Review Conversation Garrett offers a masterclass on how to leverage online reviews for marketing insights and business growth:

✅ Reviews = Stories: Every review is a story filled with emotion—positive or negative. Learn to mine them for language and sentiment. ✅ Respond with Purpose: Don't try to "win" a negative review. Instead, show other readers how you handle issues with grace and professionalism. ✅ Use Present-Tense: Encourage clients to write in the present tense (e.g. “I’m having an amazing time here”), which significantly boosts trust and engagement. ✅ Research Hack: Garrett explains how he uses AI to parse thousands of competitor reviews to extract what real people actually care about. ✅ Don’t Overwhelm: More isn’t always better. Your clients might only care about 20% of what you offer—find out what that 20% is.

🔦 Additional Highlights:

• Why Nolan encourages you to ask people “What do you want?” instead of “What do you do?”

• Faithann’s tip for skipping small talk: “Tell me the story of how that necklace ended up in your closet.”

• Nolan and Faithann's reminder: stop saying “I am not good at networking.” Instead, try “Networking has been a challenge for me—until now.”

💼 Who You’ll Meet: 👨‍💻 Garrett Hammonds Founder of Hammonds Media, a full-service digital agency specializing in SEO, website development, and digital advertising. 📍 hammondsmedia.com | nolanclayrogers.com

🎧 Tune in Now: Listen on your favorite podcast app and don’t forget to share this episode with a networking buddy who hates small talk but loves good stories.

📲 Let’s Connect: Email Faithann at faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com Join the free Facebook group: @ The Networker's Tour Guide

8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this engaging episode, host Faithann Basore welcomes Dirk Houglum, Certified Master Inspector and BNI mentor from Central Florida. Dirk shares his energetic, people-first approach to home inspections, mentorship, and networking. Together, they explore the difference between leads and true referrals, how to train clients to see you as a resource, and why BNI’s structure offers business owners a powerful launchpad for relationship-based growth.

Dirk also talks about his role mentoring new inspectors across the country and how he uses BNI’s systems—like the Passport to Success—to help others thrive. You’ll hear practical advice on what to do (and what not to do) when networking, and how generosity and education are central to Dirk’s referral philosophy.

• How Dirk discovered the Networker’s Tour Guide podcast through a chain of BNI-related content

• The importance of BNI's framework-visibility, credibility, and profitability (VCP)- in networking

• What truly makes a referral versus just a lead—and why the follow-up matters

• Dirk’s passion for mentoring new inspectors and creating accountability within BNI

• Why specificity matters in your 45–60 second BNI weekly presentation

• Strategies for becoming a trusted referral resource to your clients

• How to approach new members and help them understand that “networking is work”

• The importance of asking your fellow BNI members: What can I look for this week?

• The #1 thing Dirk loves to see at a networking event—and what he avoids

Dirk Houglum is the owner of D&P Home Inspection in Central Florida and a Certified Master Inspector. With over 1,000 home inspections under his belt, Dirk also trains and mentors inspectors nationwide. In his BNI chapter, he has served as mentor coordinator and is a strong advocate for building business through generosity, trust, and education.

“Networking is work. You have to show up, build visibility, and earn trust—then the referrals come.”

“If I’m not the right inspector for you, I’ll help you find someone who is. That’s what professionals do.”

“A referral isn’t just passing a name—it’s building a bridge between two people.”

• Business: D&P Home Inspection 

• Location: Central Florida

• Specialties: Home inspections, mentoring, and referral-based business building

• Dirk's Youtube Channel: Watch Here

Find this episode of The Networker’s Tour Guide on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen—and if you're in BNI or looking to build stronger referral relationships, don’t miss this conversation!

8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this solo episode, host Faithann Basore uses a morning of literal dusting as a metaphor for what often happens in our professional lives: the slow buildup of “relational dust” between us and our business contacts. Whether it’s unspoken frustrations or unexpressed appreciation, this episode encourages listeners to refresh and reconnect with those in their network.

Faithann explores:

• What “relationship dust” is and how it forms

• Why it’s worth saying the awkward but honest things

• How appreciation, when expressed, strengthens referral relationships

• The importance of reconnecting with contacts before you need something

• How to revive dormant relationships with intention and integrity

• Practical ways to systematically maintain your network

Whether you’ve lost touch with referral partners or just need to say, “thank you,” this episode will inspire you to dust off those connections and keep your relationships vibrant and valuable.

Key Quote:

“Let integrity and the desire to see others win be the force that guides you when you want to have weird and awkward conversations.”

Links Mentioned: 👉 Join The Networker’s Tour Guide Facebook Group – A free community where business owners share events, resources, and weekly networking plans.

Faithann’s Challenge for You: Look back at your calendar. Who did you meet with 3–6 months ago that you haven’t talked to since? Send them a message. Make the call. Dust off the relationship—you might be surprised what doors reopen.

Share This Episode With:

• A fellow business owner who’s in a weekly networking group

• A new entrepreneur asking, “Where should I be networking?"

8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this solo episode, Faithann tackles two powerful questions every networker should be prepared to answer: 👉 “How do I bring you up in conversation?” 👉 “How can I support you right now?”

These aren’t just nice questions—they're signals that you’re surrounded by the right people. Faithann dives deep into the kind of clear, specific language you need to equip your network with so they can refer you easily and naturally, even when a need isn’t obvious. She also shares a deeply relatable story about being caught off guard by kindness, and how every business owner can benefit from being ready when support is offered.

🧰 In This Episode You’ll Learn:

• Why vague answers like “I can help anyone” hurt your chances of being referred

• How to teach your network to spot subtle referral cues in everyday conversation

• Practical examples of what referral language actually sounds like

• Why it’s essential to have a go-to answer when someone asks how they can support you

📌 Related Episodes Mentioned:

• Ep. 36 – Help Your Clients Refer You

• Ep. 16–20 – A five-part series on crafting a powerful, specific introduction for networking

📤 Faithann’s Challenge to You: Next time someone asks how they can help, be ready. Don’t default to “buy my thing.” Instead, think about ways they can support you that match their willingness and influence—like sharing this podcast with a business owner who loves to learn or travels a lot for work.

📲 How You Can Support This Podcast: Share this episode with a business owner you admire—especially someone who loves learning or spends a lot of time driving between appointments. Just copy the link and send a quick text. You might make their day—and you’ll definitely support Faithann’s mission to make networking feel doable and human again.

Visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog for even more networking tips and tricks.

Join Faithann's free private facebook group for online networking support and weekly live educational videos here.

Which question do you already have an answer to?  Email your thoughts to faithann@theneworkerstourguide.com.

8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this special episode, Faithann invites her husband and business partner, Dave, to the mic for a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to grow a business through networking—together.

Dave shares his candid thoughts about the early days of Window Cleaning Plus, how he felt about Faithann joining BNI back in 2018, and the pressure of showing up to those first jobs that came from networking referrals. From tackling large residential jobs to learning how to stay professional even when a hose gets stuck, Dave offers real-world advice for anyone in the trades trying to grow their business with integrity and excellence.

You’ll hear how networking relationships formed by Faithann translate into customer loyalty, trust, and glowing testimonials—and how Dave and their team uphold that trust every time they step foot into a client’s home.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 💡 Why networking paid for itself before they even joined

• 🧼 What it’s like to walk into a client’s home as “the husband of Faithann”

• 💬 How one referral changed the trajectory of their business

• 📹 Why service professionals should always assume there are cameras (and microphones)

• 🧠 The mental shift from frustration to gratitude in the field

• 👥 How teamwork between the networker and the technician makes the whole operation stronger

• 🛠️ Practical advice for new tradespeople who want to build rapport and confidence

Memorable Quotes:

“If you’re in the trades and one of you networks while the other delivers the service—realize both roles affect the outcome. You’re building something together.”

“Just because you’re not the one networking doesn’t mean the relationship building stops when you get to the job.”

“They talk about Faithann like they’ve known her forever—and that trust gets extended to me when I show up.”

For Service-Based Business Owners: If you’ve ever wondered how networking could actually grow your business—and what happens after the referral—this episode is your roadmap. It’s honest, practical, and proof that showing up with professionalism, consistency, and care pays off in ways that go far beyond clean windows.

Resources & Links: 🪟 Learn more about Window Cleaning Plus 🤝 Discover more networking tips and tricks at the Networker's Tour Guide blog. 🎧 Catch past episodes of the Networker’s Tour Guide Podcast here

Thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another business owner who’s in the trenches building something great.

here.

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

In this solo episode, Faithann follows up on a powerful insight from last week's guest, Rodger Taylor, who reminded us not to write people off so quickly.

What do you do when you're invited to a one-to-one and your immediate thought is, “No thanks”? Maybe it’s someone whose industry doesn’t seem relevant, or maybe you feel too busy. Before you decline, Faithann shares four practical strategies that will help you say yes with purpose—or no with intention.

1. Question Your First Reaction: Don’t judge the value of a connection too quickly. People are more than their profession—they have networks, family, friends, and influence you may not realize. Keep an open mind.

2. Redefine the Meeting Terms: You don’t have to accept the meeting as requested. Offer a Zoom instead of an in-person coffee. Suggest a shorter meeting. You are in charge of your time and how you use it.

3. Delay Without Guilt: If now’s not a good time, that’s okay. Let them know you’re booked and suggest a time a few weeks out. A person willing to wait for a meeting often turns out to be a worthwhile connection.

4. Come Prepared: Do a little homework. Check out their social profiles, podcast, or business. Arrive with thoughtful questions and stories from your business that show what you do—without sounding salesy.

For more networking tips and tricks visit:

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog

In this episode, Faithann Basore welcomes Rodger Taylor, co-founder of Network Build Grow, a dynamic networking organization based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Rodger and his wife, Melissa, have spent the last eight years creating a space where business owners not only connect but grow—both professionally and personally.

Rodger shares how the group evolved from a local free meetup to a thriving membership-based community offering in-person and virtual events, including happy hours, strategic collaborations, book clubs, and what they call huddles—small mastermind-style sessions designed to help members tackle real-time challenges.

Later in the conversation, Rodger offers a thoughtful breakdown of why most people don’t follow up after networking—and how to overcome those barriers. He outlines a mindset shift that turns follow-up into something relational rather than transactional, and he offers practical strategies for making consistent, thoughtful connections after the first handshake.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Network Build Grow supports entrepreneurs beyond traditional networking

• The story behind how Rodger and Melissa started their own group to meet a real-time need

• What “huddles” are and how they provide real value through group problem-solving

• Why follow-up is the missing piece in many people’s networking strategy

• The real reasons people fail to follow up—and what to do about it

• How to shift your follow-up from obligation to opportunity

Notable Quotes:

“Most people say relationships matter—but their behavior tells a different story.” – Rodger Taylor “We wanted to bring value beyond business cards—and it turns out, that’s what people come back for.” – Rodger Taylor “Follow-up isn’t annoying if it’s done with care and intention. It’s where trust starts to build.” – Rodger Taylor

Resources & Mentions:

• Network Build Grow -Rodger's networking community website

• Sales Maven Society – where Faithann and Rodger’s connector, Jackie, first met

Connect with Rodger Taylor: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 NetEffect-Rodger's Exclusive Networking Follow Up System

Connect with Faithann Basore: 🌐 TheNetworkersTourGuide.com 📧 @thenetworkerstourguide

In this energizing episode of The Networker’s Tour Guide, Faithann welcomes the golden voice behind her podcast intro — Connor Quinn, founder of Connor Quinn Voices LLC. With decades of national voiceover experience and a heart for supporting local businesses, Connor shares how networking isn't just about selling services, but building real relationships that open surprising doors.

Together, they unpack:

• Why networking makes “unreachable” pros like voice talent suddenly feel accessible

• What most people get wrong (and right!) about their 60-second pitch

• How to deliver your message with confidence, clarity, and connection — even if you’re nervous

• The power of speaking slower (and how to not rush your name!)

• Connor’s journey from Hollywood-level voiceover to building a heart-centered business in Oklahoma

This episode is packed with tangible tips for making the most of your networking time — and a few heartfelt laughs about baked potatoes and branding blunders.

🎧 Whether you’re just starting to network or ready to fine-tune your presence, Connor’s insights will help you be heard — literally and figuratively.

🗣️ Guest: Connor Quinn Professional Voiceover Artist | Founder, Connor Quinn Voices LLC 🎙️ Heard nationally on brands like McDonald’s, Sandals Resorts, and more — but he loves helping local businesses amplify their message.

📍 Based in Oklahoma | Serving clients nationwide 🔗 Learn More About Connor Quinn

Find Connor on LinkedIN.

✨ Connect with Faithann: Host of The Networker’s Tour Guide Helping small biz pros perfect their pitch and own their confidence 📬 Grab Your Free Networking Resources

💡 Listener Takeaway: That “60 seconds” you get at a networking event? It’s your stage. Use it wisely. Speak clearly, be confident, and make sure they remember who you are and how you help.

Eight Ways To Make Your Introduction Stand Out

Are you doing great work for your clients but still not getting consistent referrals? In this solo episode, Faithann breaks down exactly how to help your clients help you—by giving them the right words, confidence, and cues to refer you effectively. Learn how to remove the mental barriers around asking for referrals, ditch assumptions, and take ownership of the referral process.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why clients often don’t refer—even when they want to

• How to gently bring up referrals without sounding pushy

• The two types of referral language every business owner should have ready

• Sample scripts you can customize and share with clients

• How to follow up in a way that keeps the process comfortable and respectful

Quote from Faithann:

“Let’s not be afraid to offer our clients the language to use. You’re not bragging—you’re making it easier for them to speak up on your behalf.”

🎁 Free Download: Grab Faithann’s “Eight Ways to Make Your Introduction Stand Out” — designed to help you confidently introduce yourself at your next networking event. 👉 Download here

Mentioned in this episode:

• Creating specific referral language

• What to say to a client after a project is complete

• Helping your clients know who to refer to you

• How to offer follow-up in a respectful way

🔗 Share this episode with someone who's ready to grow their business through networking the smart way.

FREE 8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, host Faithann welcomes long-time collaborator and friend, Mendy, the powerhouse behind The Honey Do Checklist. The two dive into the journey of their professional relationship—how it started at an Oklahoma City Mix and Mingle, and how Mendy’s trustworthy and consistent back-office support has helped Faithann’s business thrive.

They discuss what holds entrepreneurs back from outsourcing key tasks like bookkeeping and admin (spoiler: it’s about control, vulnerability, and trust). Mendy shares how she helps solo entrepreneurs and micro-businesses feel seen and supported—not just with services, but with small, meaningful gestures that build loyalty. From handwritten cards to themed mailers filled with gifts from fellow small businesses, she explains why intentional thoughtfulness is her secret to client retention.

Mendy also explains the challenges of hiring too many service providers at once and the importance of growing relationships over time, both in terms of communication style and expectations.

Key Topics:

• How Faithann and Mendy met through networking and built a working relationship over four years

• What inspired the launch of The Honey Do Checklist in 2020

• The emotional weight of outsourcing business finances

• Why client retention is rooted in visibility, not perfection

• The importance of making clients feel seen with intentional gifting

• How hiring too many providers at once can overwhelm new business owners

• The difference between vendors and partners—and why language matters

Takeaways:

✅ Trust takes time—especially when it comes to your business finances ✅ Small gestures (like a packet of seeds) can leave a lasting impression ✅ Be mindful of how many roles you outsource at once—build relationships gradually ✅ Supporting others starts with communication, consistency, and care

Connect with Mendy: 🌐 The Honey Do Checklist – Website  📷 On Facebook 

Mentioned in the Episode: 📝 Faithann’s blog post: Take Care of the Underdogs – Read Here

Join Faithann's private networking support facebook here.

Rate & Review! If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share it with a fellow business owner who needs to hear this message.

FREE 8 Ways to Stand Out in Your Introduction

In this episode of The Networker's Tour Guide Podcast, host Faithann sits down with the energetic and inspiring Lupita Linda, a successful entrepreneur with Park Lane Jewelry. Lupita shares her journey from being a lifelong saleswoman—starting at her family's restaurant at age 11—to building a full-time business in direct sales.

They dive into what it truly takes to treat an MLM like a real business, the value of consistency, and how networking fuels sustainable growth. Lupita gives practical, actionable advice on how to schedule income-producing activities, build loyalty with customers, and creatively engage your audience—plus a behind-the-scenes look at her signature “12 Square” promotion.

Whether you’re in MLM, direct sales, or any kind of small business, this episode is packed with motivation and tools to keep showing up and building relationships the right way.

What You'll Learn:

• Why consistency is the cornerstone of Lupita's success

• How to balance sales with customer care and admin work using the 80/20 rule

• The power of monthly promotions to keep momentum and visibility

• How in-person networking provides better business feedback than social media alone

• Tips for using simple systems to track follow-ups and customer engagement

• Why relationship-building is essential for any business—MLM or otherwise

• An inside look at Lupita’s creative “12 Squares” offer using hostess benefits

• How Park Lane’s top-notch training and tools help their sellers thrive

Quotable Moments:

“You have to treat it like a real business. That $250 kit doesn’t come with a ticket to Hawaii.” — Faithann

“My three keys to success are consistency, loyalty, and relationship-building.” — Lupita Linda

“Networking helps you fine-tune your message in real time. You can’t get that from just posting online.” — Faithann

“Make friends first. The sale will follow.” — Lupita Linda

👤 Guest: Lupita Linda Independent Partner with Park Lane Jewelry With over 40 years in direct sales, Lupita brings depth, warmth, and a business-savvy mindset to the MLM space. She treats her business like a career and shares her expertise to help others do the same.

📱 Follow Lupita: Facebook

🌐 Website: Park Lane

🎧 Subscribe to The Networker’s Tour Guide Never miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify and stay inspired to build relationships that build your business.

✳️ Grab More Networking Tips and Tricks at the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

✳️ Join Faithann's Private Facebook Group, The Networker's Tour Guide to connect with others who use networking as a tool to grow their businesses.

Ask Faithann a specific networking question by emailing faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Faithann and Brandi dive deep into how our mindset and nervous system affect the way we show up—especially in high-pressure situations like networking events. Brandi shares her process of helping clients use neuroplasticity to rewire their thoughts and improve their emotional resilience.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• The Unintentional vs. Intentional Thought Practice Brandi guides her clients to write down unintentional (negative) thoughts and intentionally reframe them into positive truths. From there, they explore the new feelings and actions those thoughts can create.

• How Long Does it Take to “Rewire” a Thought? On average, 21–30 days of consistent practice on one thought pattern helps weaken the emotional charge behind negative thoughts. Over time, this process becomes internalized, reducing the need to write it down—but starting with pen to paper is key.

• “New Levels, New Devils” Growth brings new challenges. As soon as one mindset block is cleared, a new one may surface. Recognizing this is part of the journey and not a sign of failure is essential.

• Faithann’s Vulnerable Story Faithann shares a personal moment from 2019, overwhelmed as a caregiver and business owner, when she cried over forgetting her bio at a BNI meeting. Brandi identifies this as “functional freeze”—you’re showing up physically, but emotionally and mentally frozen due to stress overload.

• Burnout Among Entrepreneurs Brandi reflects on her entrepreneurial family legacy and how neglecting emotional resilience can cause even successful businesses to crumble. Focusing only on strategy isn't enough—we must also prioritize mental and emotional health.

• Why Nervous System Regulation Matters at Networking Events When dysregulated, we show up inauthentically, act from survival mode, and focus only on what we can get. Regulated people give and grow, creating more genuine and effective connections.

• Showing Up as Yourself The best strategy in any networking space is to be your real self. That means understanding your own thoughts, emotions, and triggers—then entering rooms ready to contribute, not just to collect.

Brandy excels at online networking and offers three key strategies:

1. Storytelling That Connects People are 22x more likely to remember you when your content includes stories. Focus on the Hero’s Journey and include:

   • Credibility (Why you're the expert)

   • Authenticity (Relatable moments)

   • Vulnerability (Honest struggles)

2. Clear, Memorable Elevator Pitch Especially important online, where attention is scarce. Make it concise, clear, and compelling.

3. Facebook Groups Are Goldmines Don’t go in pitching. Go in building relationships, answering questions, offering value, and sharing helpful tools. These spaces are full of people actively seeking the solutions you provide.

Faithann shares the success of her Networker's Tour Guide Facebook Group and the popular weekly post: “Where are you networking this week?” This simple question sparks connection, accountability, and increased visibility within the group.

• Brandi’s Free Storytelling Guide 

• The Networker’s Tour Guide Facebook Group 

“New levels, new devils.” – Brandi

“The two greatest things we can do in life are to give and to grow.” – Brandi

“When we’re dysregulated, we show up as someone we’re not.” – Brandi

Brandi Gilstrap  [Instagram / Website / Free Story Telling Guide

Faithann Basore [Instagram / Free Networking Resources 

You'll learn:

• How to help your referral partners identify your ideal client by painting vivid, relatable pictures.
• Why the way you ask for referrals needs to feel natural, not salesy.
• Tips for making your networking introductions stand out using program interruptors—from quirky phrases like “tippity-top” to holding a microphone or even wearing your name tag upside down.
• Why inviting conversation after the meeting could be the most powerful part of your introduction.

💡 Plus: Don’t forget to grab your free download: 8 Ways to Make Your Introduction Stand Out

If you're ready to turn vague introductions into unforgettable impressions, and vague referrals into the perfect connections, this episode is your guide.

Visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog for even more networking tips and tricks.

Join Faithann's free private facebook group for online networking support and weekly live educational videos here.

Which tips stood out to you?  Email your thoughts to faithann@theneworkerstourguide.com.

Faithann and Patricia unpack how they connected through the Sales Maven Society (shoutout to Nikki Rausch!) and trace the threads of networking that brought them together.

Together, they discuss:

✅ Why consistent brand voice matters across your website, social, emails, and in-person networking

✅ How passion and energy help build stronger relationships and attract the right clients

✅ The magic of voice-of-customer research and why it’s key to differentiating yourself in a crowded market

✅ Why testimonials and “what made you say yes?” stories are gold in your networking pitches

✅ Tips for helping your referral partners know exactly when and how to refer you

You’ll leave this episode inspired to align your messaging, show up authentically, and fine-tune the way you describe your value, so your network can confidently advocate for you.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about Patricia here.

• Find out how well your voice and tone align with your audience's needs and expectations, take this quiz today.

• Nikki Rausch, Salesmaven Society 

• Faithann's “Referrals in 60 Seconds” manual 

• Grab your free "Impressions" guide from Faithann and stand out at your networking meetings.

Connect with Us:

• Gain more networking insight at the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

• Subscribe to Networker’s Tour Guide wherever you listen to podcasts

• Leave Faithann a review — we’d love to hear what topics help you the most!

Evonne shares a powerful analogy about SOPs being like scaffolding for a business, explains why they're critical even for solopreneurs, and highlights how strong documentation lays the foundation for scaling successfully.

The conversation turns to networking, where Evonne shares a heartfelt story about how her involvement in BNI (Business Networking International) helped her pivot careers and build a business that eventually allowed her family to achieve financial freedom. They discuss the long-term value of relationships, the patience required in networking, and how connections made years ago can still bear fruit today.

If you’ve ever doubted the lasting impact of genuine networking or wondered how to set your business up for sustainable growth, you won't want to miss this conversation!

• What Barrier Consulting offers: VA placement, operations support, SOP creation, and more.

• SOPs explained: Why documenting your processes is like building scaffolding around your business.

• Networking as a catalyst: How Evonne's BNI experience led to sustained business growth, even after she stopped active weekly networking.

• Long game of networking: Building trust and relationships can take years, but the investment pays off over time.

• Practical advice for new networkers: Your first year is about learning, not expecting immediate returns.

• Website: barriervirtualassistants.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barrierconsulting/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evonne-barrier-40627747/

• Website: www.thenetworkerstourguide.net

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenetworkerstourguide/

• Get Your Free "Impressions" Guide and start making confident, memorable connections at every networking event! 

She explores:

• What it really means to create opportunities for others — and why that gives us standing to ask for opportunities when we need them.

• How we can be intentional about lifting up and supporting those who lead networking organizations.

• Actionable ways leaders can prevent burnout and make sure members feel welcomed, recognized, and appreciated.

• The ripple effect of support: more connection, more referrals, more growth.

• Say thank you with intention: Go beyond a generic "thank you" — share specific reasons why their leadership matters to you.

• Be the person they can rely on: Show up early, anticipate needs, offer help without being asked, and bring guests.

• Make their life easier: Gift cards, thoughtful notes, or simply noticing what they do can go a long way.

• Offer feedback before you quit: If you're not seeing results, ask your leader for insight. Vulnerability opens doors.

• Clear communication is kindness: Always post accurate times, locations, parking details, and meeting lengths — no surprises.

• Respect attendees' time: Start and end on time to honor everyone's schedule.

• Public recognition builds culture: Celebrate the members who go above and beyond — the greeters, the helpers, the connectors. What gets recognized gets repeated.

• Why it's so important to ask for feedback from your members before making big changes to your group. Just because you’re the leader doesn’t mean you get to make changes “willy nilly” — like the day, time, or location of your meetings — without involving your members in the process.

• A personal story about how small, gradual tweaks to a meeting agenda made a big impact — and helped build trust and consistency.

• The #1 thing you can do to make your members feel supported: Create a culture where newcomers feel welcome.

• Download this free PDF to make a powerful First Impression.

• Here's another impactful resource for you: 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One

Loved this episode? Be sure to subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review. Got a question or a networking story to share? Email me at faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com or DM me on Instagram @thenetworkerstourguide.

• The evolution of Yarbrough & Sons and what it's like working with family

• Why tradespeople should make time for networking

• The return on relationships vs. just return on investment

• How trust is built through consistent presence in the community

• The value of laughter, recognition, and relational connection in business groups like BNI

• What to look for—and avoid—when entering a networking room

📍 Company: Yarbrough & Sons Heating & Air 🔧 Industry: HVAC, Family-Owned Trades Business 🌐 Website: https://yarbroughandsons.com/ 📱 Connect with Will/Yarbrough & Sons: YouTube Channel

Love the episode? Follow the journey, join the conversation, and learn how to build genuine business relationships that last.

LinkedIn: Faithann Basore Private Facebook Group: Join Here Email: faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com Newsletter Sign-Up: Join Here

Enjoying the podcast? Help us reach more people by leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. We appreciate your support and look forward to growing with you!

Together, they explore how understanding the brain—specifically the Reticular Activating System (RAS) and the Amygdala—can help you not only survive networking events but thrive in them.

What You’ll Learn:

• What the Reticular Activating System (RAS) is and how it affects your visibility and effectiveness in networking

•  How to leverage the RAS to stay top of mind when you're not in the room

•  The importance of specificity in your 60-second pitch to “train” other people’s brains to remember you

• How the Amygdala (the brain’s emotional alarm system) can sabotage your attempts to network before you even walk in the room

• Why you shouldn’t beat yourself up for feeling anxious before an event—it’s just your brain trying to protect you

• The value of persistence and familiarity in making networking feel more natural over time

Quotes to Remember:

“Your brain processes billions of bits of information—your job is to educate others' brains to notice you.” – Danielle Bailey “When you ask for anyone, you get no one.” – Faithann “The Amygdala is your ancestry brain—it’s there to keep you safe, not to help you network.” – Danielle Baily

Resources Mentioned:

• Danielle's Accountability Champions Program

• Faithann’s Referrals in 60 Seconds Manual

Connect with Danielle Bailey: Website | LinkedIn | Accountability Champions 

Connect with Faithann: Website | Blog | Free First Impressions Guide

Want more episodes like this? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Every review helps more people discover how to network with purpose and confidence.

Download Your FREE First Impressions Guide HERE.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Deborah & Armstrong Company:

  • How Debra got into networking.

  • Overview of Armstrong Company’s relocation services.

• The Power of Networking for Employees:

  • How networking benefits both employees and their companies.

  • The importance of intentionality in building professional relationships.

• Debra's Networking Journey:

  • How she transitioned from Ohio to Oklahoma City and built her network.

  • Her introduction to Business Networking International (BNI).

  • The impact of finding a community and establishing her own chapter.

• Employer Support & Permission for Networking:

  • How Debra approached her company for permission to join BNI.

  • The financial investment companies make in networking and its ROI.

  • Why Armstrong Company values employee networking.

• The Value of Exclusive Networking Groups:

  • How BNI’s seat-specific structure fosters strong professional relationships.

  • The difference between referrals and leads.

  • Why exclusivity in networking enhances credibility and trust.

• Networking Beyond BNI:

  • Other industry-specific networking groups Debra participates in.

  • The importance of continuous learning and connections within an industry.

• Tracking & Reporting Networking Results:

  • How Debra demonstrates ROI to her employer.

  • The value of tracking referrals, closed business, and engagement metrics.

  • How businesses can measure the effectiveness of employee networking efforts.

• Final Takeaways:

  • Why networking is a long-term investment.

  • The importance of tracking results and being proactive.

  • Encouragement for employees to seek employer support for networking.

Resources Mentioned:

• Armstrong Company OKC Website

• Business Networking International (BNI) 

• Debra on LinkedIN

Connect with The Networker's Tour Guide:

• Free First Impressions Guide

• @thenetworkerstourguide

• Faithann on LinkedIN

• Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more valuable networking insights to our listeners.

Key Takeaways:

• Networking Happens Over Time: Tara and Faithann met through a referral partner, showcasing the power of building relationships over time.

• The Role of a Fractional COO: Tara explains what a fractional COO is and how outsourcing operational support can benefit small businesses.

• Equipping Employees for Networking Success: Many employees struggle with networking because they lack clear goals and guidance. Employers must prepare them to effectively represent the company.

• Making Networking Less Intimidating: Tara shares her approach to overcoming networking fears, including gamification and confidence-building exercises.

• The Importance of Practice: Networking is a skill that improves with experience. Every event provides an opportunity to refine your message and build credibility.

Notable Quotes:

• "Networking is done right when you're intentionally building relationships and providing value over time."

• "A fractional COO is essentially an outsourced COO—providing strategy and operational support without the commitment of a full-time hire."

• "Employees should never walk into a networking event unsure of why they're there or what they should say. Employers must prepare them for success."

• "Every networking event is practice. Whether you find a client or not, you’re refining your ability to communicate your value."

More about Tara Waddle:

At the core of everything Tara does are three values: communication, community, and curiosity. She believes that clear communication builds strong business relationships, community fuels sustainable growth, and curiosity – the willingness to ask the right questions – opens doors to new opportunities.

Tara has spoken at OK Women in Technology events, DisruptHR, SHRM chapter events, and the National Native American HR Association annual conference, helping businesses at every stage rethink how they operate from the inside out.

Today, she’s here to share how the right workflows, mission alignment, and operational clarity aren’t just internal necessities; they’re the key to making networking truly work for your business.

Connect with Tara:

• Website: https://www.waddleitbe.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tararwaddle/

• Instagram: @waddleitbe.llc

Connect with Faithann:

• Free First Impressions Download: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithann-basore/

• Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Networker's True Guide Podcast and leave a review! Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur or business owner who could benefit from networking insights. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more tips on building meaningful connections!

Key Takeaways:

1. Arrive Early – The most committed members are there early, making it a great time to connect with engaged individuals in the group.

2. Have a Curiosity-Driving Introduction – Prepare a response that sparks interest when asked, “Who are you? What’s your business?”

3. Prepare a Strong 60-Second Presentation – Even as a visitor, be ready to clearly communicate who you are looking for in a referral.

4. Be Open About the Cost – Membership fees reflect the value these groups provide. Consider the return on investment before dismissing the cost.

5. Connect with Members Online – Use provided member lists or business cards to follow up via LinkedIn or email and schedule one-on-one meetings.

6. Engage with the Speaker on LinkedIn – If the meeting includes a speaker, endorse their skills on LinkedIn as a way to build rapport.

7. Offer to Be a Substitute – Many networking groups allow substitutes for absent members. Volunteering for this role can keep you involved and visible.

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode 22: The Experts We Meet Part 1 with Nikki Rausch

• Episode 21: The Fair Analogy – Who's in Your Network?

• Free Resource: Guide to Making a Great First Impression –Download today!

Final Thoughts: You don’t have to wait to start benefiting from networking groups. By using these strategies, you can build relationships, gain insights, and prepare yourself for membership when the time is right. Go network, my friend!

Connect With Me:

• Website: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenetworkerstourguide/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithann-basore/

• Networking as a Two-Way Street – True networking isn’t just about gaining clients; it’s about forming valuable connections and offering support.
• Business Growth through Messaging – Many businesses struggle not with marketing, but with unclear messaging and broken systems.
• Overcoming Fear in Networking – Amy shares how she went from being terrified of networking to becoming a sought-after speaker and mentor.
• The Importance of Finding the Right Room – If you’re the most knowledgeable person in the room, it might be time to find a new space for growth.
• Intentional Networking – Asking thoughtful, personal questions fosters deeper relationships and leads to more meaningful connections.

💡 “Growth does not happen when we’re comfortable. Forget your comfort zone—kick the door down and get uncomfortable.” – Amy Singleton

💡 “The more accomplished people become, the more they are willing to share. It's the people who haven't done much that are often the most guarded.” – Faithann Basore

• Connect with Amy Singleton: amysingleton.net
• Follow Amy on social media: @TheRealAmySingleton
• Faithann’s blog: The Networker’s Tour Guide
• Free Resource: First Impressions Download at networkerstourguide.net/resources

🎙 Subscribe to the Podcast – Never miss an episode! 📱 Follow on Social Media – @The Networker's Tour Guide

⬇️Download Your First Impressions Guide Below⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

Nikki Rausch is a sales expert, coach, and the creator of The Selling Staircase. She teaches business owners how to sell in a way that feels natural and comfortable. Nikki has helped many people, including our host, understand sales better and use it to grow their businesses.

Faithann first discovered Nikki through Business Networking International (BNI), an organization that helps people connect and learn about networking. After watching Nikki’s Selling Staircase training, she became a fan and later joined Nikki’s Sales Maven Society—a group that offers coaching and support for business owners who want to improve their sales skills.

Nikki created The Selling Staircase to help people understand how to have successful sales conversations. Just like you wouldn’t jump to the top of a staircase in one step, you shouldn’t rush into selling without taking the right steps first!

1. Introduction – Make a great first impression.

2. Create Curiosity – Get people interested in what you do.

3. Discovery – Have a conversation to understand their needs.

4. Proposal – Offer a solution that fits their needs.

5. Close – Confidently ask for the sale.

Many people make the mistake of skipping steps, but following this process makes selling feel more natural and effective!

• Networking isn’t just about meeting people—it’s about building relationships.

• Creating curiosity is key! Instead of overwhelming people with information, give short, interesting answers that make them want to learn more.

• Avoid "word vomiting"—talking too much without letting the other person engage.

• Think of conversations like a game of catch—both people should take turns asking and answering questions.

• Dog Calling (Too Pushy!) – Being overly excited and overwhelming people with information.

• Cat Calling (Creating Curiosity!) – Giving just enough information to make someone want to ask more.

• Sales and networking go hand in hand.

• Take your time and follow the steps of the Selling Staircase to build trust.

• Make networking conversations fun and engaging by creating curiosity.

• Anyone can learn how to sell with the right structure and approach.

• Get Nikki's free e-book, Closing the Sale here.

• Listen to The Sales Maven Podcast for more tips!

• Join the Sales Maven Society for coaching and support.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share it with someone who wants to improve their networking and sales skills!

Next, Faithann explores the concept of a business “fair”—how clients move from one service to the next and how you can position yourself as the natural next step in their journey. Whether you’re a real estate professional, contractor, or coach, understanding where your clients come from and where they go next can help you build strong referral partnerships and grow your business.

⬇️Download Your First Impressions Guide Below⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to structure a compelling elevator pitch (featuring Amy Thurman’s pitch from Episode 20)
• Why networking is more than just collecting business cards—it’s about strategic partnerships
• The concept of the “business fair” and how different service providers fit together
• How to identify who your clients see before and after you, and how to build relationships with them
• Smart questions to ask clients to uncover referral opportunities
• How to proactively create opportunities for others so they’ll return the favor

Key Takeaways:

• A well-structured elevator pitch makes it easy for people to refer you.
• Your clients don’t make purchases in isolation—each step leads to another.
• Identify businesses that naturally align with yours and form partnerships.
• Asking clients “What’s next?” helps you anticipate their needs and connect them with the right people.
• Providing referrals builds trust and increases the likelihood of receiving referrals in return.

Resources & Mentions:

• Episode 20: Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch with Amy Thurman
• Episode 3: Understanding Referral Partners

Connect With Me:

• https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithann-basore/
• Tour 53: At The Fair at The Networker’s Tour Guide blog

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more business owners looking to grow through strategic networking.

In this episode, Faithann talks with her special guest, Amy Thurman. Amy is a best-selling author, speaker, and transformation coach who helps people live more authentically and overcome fear. She also shares her personal journey of recovering from a traumatic neck injury.

⬇️Download your free Powerful First Impressions guide⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/questions

How Faithann and Amy Met

• Faithann and Amy met at a networking event.
• Faithann reached out to Amy before the event, making her feel welcomed.
• A great tip for networking leaders: Send a message to new attendees to make them feel comfortable before they arrive!

Amy’s Inspiring Story

• Amy lived with an undetected broken neck for six months.
• She turned her trauma into a message of empowerment.
• She wrote her book Finding My Hero Within to share her journey from pain to strength.
• She chose to publish her book on the anniversary of her accident to change the way she saw that day—from tragedy to victory.

Helping People Find Their Authentic Self

• Amy teaches people how to be their true selves.
• When you are authentic, life flows more easily, and you don’t have to try so hard to find joy and purpose.
• Her work helps people improve their relationships, careers, and overall happiness.

Making a Stronger Elevator Pitch

• Instead of just saying what you do, describe the kind of person you help.
• Use clear examples to make it easy for others to refer you to the right people.
• For example, Amy helps people who feel stuck in their roles and want to discover who they truly are.

Final Thoughts

• If you want to improve your elevator pitch, focus on who you help and how you help them.
• If you want to read Amy’s book, you can find it on Amazon and her website.
• Thanks for listening, and don’t forget to subscribe for more great networking tips!

Links:

• Amy’s book: Finding My Hero Within
• Amy's website: getamyshelp.com
• More resources at:thenetworkerstourguide.net

⬇️Download your free Powerful First Impressions guide⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/questions

📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ What an elevator pitch is and why it matters ✅ Three great examples of elevator pitches from different industries ✅ How to confidently tell people who you’re looking to meet ✅ Tips to make sure your pitch is memorable and effective

📝 Key Takeaways: 🔹 A great elevator pitch starts with a short success story 🔹 Be specific about the type of person you’re looking to meet 🔹 Give your listeners a clear action step (like introducing you to a friend!) 🔹 If you’re in a room with others in your same profession, make your pitch stand out!

💡 Bonus Tips for Networking Meetings: ✨ Pick a seat where you can see the whole room when speaking ✨ Stay focused—even if there’s a distraction, keep going ✨ If others in the room do the same job as you, sit separately and make your pitch unique

📚 Resources Mentioned: 📖 Referrals in 60 Seconds Playbook – Get it at networkerschewerguide.net/products

🎧 Missed the last episodes? Check out: 🔹 Episode 17 & 18 – Guest interviews on crafting great elevator pitches

🔗 Connect with Faithann & Learn More: 💻 networkerschewerguide.net

Take Action! Use these tips to improve your elevator pitch and stand out at your next networking event! 

❇️Grab your "First Impressions" Guide mentioned during the show here.❇️

What You’ll Learn:

• Friends Over Customers: In business, strong friendships lead to better opportunities.
• The Power of Testimonials: Sharing kind words about someone’s work can make their day and boost their confidence.
• The Magic of Stories: Using real-life stories helps people understand what you do and remember you better.
• Elevator Pitches: Learn how to make the most of your 60 seconds when introducing your business. Be specific, tell a story, and make it easy for people to connect with you.
• Knowing Your Audience: Adjust what you say depending on who’s listening. The more relatable your story, the more people will respond.

Key Tip: When sharing, use phrases like “for example” to grab attention. People love hearing stories that they can imagine themselves in.

Whether you’re new to networking or a pro, this episode will help you build stronger connections and feel more confident in any room.

Where to find Nathan from Advantec Solutions:

LInkedIN

Website

Youtube 

Purchase Faithann's "Referrals in 60 Seconds" playbook to create an impactful elevator pitch of your own that makes it easy for others to bring you referrals here.

❇️Powerful First Impression Download❇️

Welcome to Episode 17 of the podcast! This episode is extra special because Faithann welcomes her very first guest, JoAnne Stiles, from Stiles Realty Group. JoAnne has been in real estate for over 20 years, and she’s here to share her expertise about crafting the perfect elevator pitch to stand out in networking meetings.

1. What Makes a Great Elevator Pitch

• JoAnne explains why specificity is key. A great pitch should be clear and make it easy for others to help you.
• Learn how to avoid being too broad and how a specific request can lead to actionable referrals.

• Garage Sale Tip: JoAnne shares how she uses garage sales as a way to identify potential home sellers and why it works so well.
• Holiday Decorating Tip: Discover why decorating for Christmas might hurt your home sale and how JoAnne uses fun topics like Christmas trees to make her pitches memorable.

• Using fun and relatable questions to grab attention, like asking if people are on “Team Real Christmas Tree” or “Team Fake Christmas Tree.”
• Why participation and interaction make your pitch more memorable.

• DO: Be genuinely interested in others and mix up who you talk to at meetings.
• DON’T: Repeat the same pitch every time without adding something new or helpful.

• How to adapt your pitch on the fly based on who’s in the room.
• Tying your message to current events or shared experiences to make a lasting impression.

JoAnne Stiles is a real estate broker based in Norman, Oklahoma. She owns Stiles Realty Group and has six agents on her team. Joanne also manages Stiles on Gray, a beautifully renovated office and co-working space in a historic building. Her expertise in real estate and networking makes her a go-to resource for anyone looking to grow their business connections.

Read Tour 31: Trust in 60 Seconds? as a great compliment to this episode.

Your elevator pitch is not about impressing others; it’s about involving them. By being specific and fun, you make it easier for people to remember you and refer you.

Action Step: Next time you create a pitch, ask yourself: “Does this paint a clear picture? Will it stick in people’s minds?”

Thanks for tuning in to Episode 17! Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a friend who wants to improve their networking skills.

Grab your free "Powerful First Impressions" download here.

              ❇️ Grab Your FREE First Impressions Resource ❇️

An elevator pitch is a 30-60 second introduction where you share who you are, what you do, and who you help. Think of it as your chance to grab the room’s undivided attention and make a memorable first impression. But, there’s a right way—and a wrong way—to use this precious time.

Host Faithann shares the importance of painting a clear picture of your ideal client or referral. Using an analogy called "looking loud," she explains why you should describe your ideal client in specific, memorable terms. When you do this well, the people listening will know exactly who to refer to you—or even recognize themselves as your perfect client!

Key Takeaways:

• Paint a Clear Picture: Don’t just say what you do; describe the type of person you're looking to connect with. For example: “I’m looking for someone who’s struggling to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift.”
• Focus on One Thing: If you have multiple businesses, pick one to highlight during your pitch.
• Don’t Waste Time: Avoid buzzwords, acronyms, or unnecessary details (like how long you’ve been in business). Stay focused on what matters.
• Make It Easy to Refer You: Teach others how to bring you up in conversation by using specific examples and language.

Why It Matters: Your elevator pitch isn’t just about you—it’s about helping others see how they can help you. When you create curiosity and make it easy for people to connect you with your ideal clients, you’ll get better results from your networking efforts.

Tune in to learn how to master your 60 seconds and stand out in any room! Don’t miss the next episode in this series, where Faithann shares real-life examples and invites special guests to workshop their pitches live.

Free Resource: Want to make a great first impression? Faithann has a free guide to help you leave a lasting impact. Get it now.

Email Faithann at faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

Are you a business owner or professional struggling with networking? Does walking into a room full of strangers feel overwhelming? Faith Ann, your tour guide through the networking terrain, is here to help! In this episode, she shares tips to make networking easier and brings insights from the world of business success. Get ready to learn how to network like a pro and build meaningful relationships!

✳️ Grab your free "First Impressions" download here.

• Networking is about creating opportunities for others so they’ll feel empowered to return the favor when you need it. It’s about generosity and connection.
• Faithann emphasizes: Relationships are at the heart of networking, and generosity is the key to success.

 Lessons from Joe Rogan’s Comedy Club

• Joe Rogan’s "Mothership" comedy club was designed with the needs of comedians in mind. From the stage setup to backstage comforts, everything was intentional.
• Networking takeaway: Think of ways to prioritize the needs of those you’re connecting with. When you go the extra mile, you’ll earn respect and trust.

 Small Gestures Make a Big Impact

• Faithann shares relatable examples, like Sam’s Club providing convenient trash cans. Small details create memorable experiences.
• Networking tip: Pay attention to small gestures that show consideration, like confirming appointments or being mindful of time limits.

Appointments:

• Confirm appointments 24 hours in advance.
• If you need to reschedule, propose an alternative time right away.
• Respect others’ time by checking in at the start of a meeting about time constraints.

Conversations:

• Be the “tour guide” of group conversations. Fill in context so no one feels left out.
• Make introductions when people you know haven’t met.
• Compliment others sincerely, especially during introductions.

General Tips:

• Always carry useful items (gum, ibuprofen, pens) that others might need.
• Be mindful when sharing photos from events; ensure they’re flattering.
• Reflect on your interactions to identify areas for improvement. Small changes can make a big difference!

Read Tour 15 of The Networker's Tour Guide blog here.

In Episode 14, we’re diving into networking groups—what they are, how they work, and how to choose the right ones to help you grow your business.

Types of Networking Groups:

Membership-Based vs. Non-Membership Groups:

Membership groups often have a fee and require a commitment, which fosters consistency and trust.

Paid vs. Free Groups:

Paid groups encourage regular attendance and deeper connections.

Free groups are great for new business owners starting on a budget.

Learn how groups like BNI, Gold Star, and Centrasphere limit competition by allowing only one person per industry.

Discover the pros and cons of joining industry-exclusive groups.

Local vs. National/International Groups:

Local groups are easier to connect with but may lack larger referral networks.

National and international groups offer wide-reaching referrals but often have more rules.

What Makes a Good Networking Group?

Clear expectations and guidelines.

A welcoming atmosphere that fosters fun and growth.

Supportive members who encourage referrals and collaboration.

• Be intentional when choosing a networking group—ensure it aligns with your goals and values.
• Networking is about building genuine relationships. Look for groups that inspire gratitude, encouragement, and collaboration.
• Start with a mix of paid and free groups to find what works best for you.

Resources Mentioned:

• First Impressions Download-Grab this today to make a powerful first impression at your next networking meeting.
• Tour 11: Networking in OKC at a Glance 
• Visit The Networker’s Tour Guide Blog for tips and resources on building your network.

• Subscribe to the podcast for weekly tips on building your networking skills.
• Follow Us on social media for updates.
• Share Your Feedback: We’d love to hear about your favorite networking groups and tips!  Email faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

Remember, networking is all about helping others and finding joy in the process. If a group doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to explore new options.

Go network, my friend—your opportunities are waiting!

Want a list of engaging questions that lets the person you are having coffee with at your 1-2-1 meeting feel important

⬇️Get your complimentary download here.⬇️

You’ll learn how to avoid awkward moments, recognize opportunities around you, and become someone others naturally think of when referrals come up.

When you approach networking with awareness and intention, even casual interactions can turn into meaningful connections.

Want to feel more confident in your conversations? 👇 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One 👇

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

Want to go deeper on these ideas? 👉 Learn how small networking moments can lead to bigger opportunities: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog/b/mini-tour-eleven

👉 Discover simple ways to show up more confidently in everyday interactions: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog/b/mini-tour-nine-1847

For more networking insights and strategies, visit https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog.

Email Faithann at faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

You’ll learn how to look for alignment between people, make meaningful introductions, and position yourself as someone others trust to connect them.

When you consistently connect the right people, your network becomes stronger—and your value inside it grows.

Want to feel more confident leading one-to-one conversations? 👇 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One 👇 

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

Looking for more ways to strengthen your networking strategy? 👉 Explore additional insights and practical tips on the blog: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog

Want to go deeper on today’s concept? 👉 True Networking Inspires It — a look at how meaningful connections naturally lead to introductions and opportunities: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog/b/stack

Questions or want help refining your networking strategy? 📩 faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com

You’ll learn how to set expectations, reduce pressure, and help others feel more comfortable—so they can show up as their best selves and engage more meaningfully.

When you’re intentional about how you invite people into a room, you don’t just help them—you strengthen the entire network.

Want to feel more confident guiding your own networking conversations?

👇 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One 👇

Looking for more ways to strengthen your networking strategy? 👉 Explore additional insights and practical tips on the blog: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog

Want to go deeper on today’s concept? 👉 Give Directions Like a Superhero — learn how to guide others into networking spaces so they feel confident and ready to connect: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog/b/superhero

Have a question or want help refining your networking strategy? 📩 faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com

You’ll learn how to manage your mindset and show up more relaxed and present in networking environments.

When you want more structure in your conversations: 👇 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One 👇 https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

For more networking insights and strategies, visit https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog.

Read now

Join Faithann's Facebook community here.

You’ll learn how to evaluate networking opportunities and choose rooms that align with your goals.

When you’re ready to make the most of those rooms: 👇 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One 👇

     Get your download here.

For more networking insights and strategies, visit https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog.

Read Tour 49, “The Networking Sweet Spot” here.

Join Faithann's Facebook community here.

Email: faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com

You’ll learn how to reduce pressure, start conversations more easily, and build confidence over time.

Want a list of engaging questions that lets the person you are having coffee with feel important?

⬇️Get your list of questions here⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/questions

For more networking insights and strategies, visit https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/blog.

If shyness has ever held you back in a networking room, this will help: Read The Shyness Factor and discover how to move through it with confidence: here.

Email: faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com

You’ll learn how to recognize referral signals in real time and respond in a way that strengthens relationships.

Your efficiency and implementation coach Danielle Baily, which I referenced in the episode, is a great resource for time blocking and implementation strategies for your business.   Learn more about her here

"10 Questions to Ask in a 1-2-1" 

For more networking tips, visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

Generosity in networking can lead to powerful relationships—but only when it’s done with intention. Giving without clarity can leave you feeling overlooked instead of referred. In this episode, Faithann Basore breaks down how to use generosity in a way that builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates real referral opportunities.

You’ll hear how generosity becomes the engine that drives effective networking—and how to apply it in a way that actually leads to results.

You’ll also hear me reference sales expert Nikki Rausch in this episode—her work has strongly influenced how I approach conversations and referrals. Learn more about her here: https://yoursalesmaven.com/

Get your complimentary download:

👇"10 Questions to Ask in a 1-2-1" 👇

Questions 

For more networking tips, visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

You’ll hear me reference sales expert Nikki Rausch in this episode—her work has deeply shaped how I approach conversations and referrals. Learn more about her and her resources here: https://yoursalesmaven.com/

Get your complimentary

👇"10 Questions to Ask in a 1-2-1" 👇

Questions 

For more networking tips, visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

In this episode, Faithann Basore breaks down how to position yourself as a reliable referral partner so more opportunities naturally come your way.

Get your complimentary

👇"10 Questions to Ask in a 1-2-1" 👇

Questions 

For more networking tips, visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

Discover the right way to reach out to a person that gives you a greater chance of that meeting on the calendar.

Get your complimentary

👇"10 Questions to Ask in a 1-2-1" 👇

Questions 

For more networking tips, visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.

Get your complimentary

👇"10 Questions to Ask in a 1-2-1" 👇

Questions 

For more networking tips, visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog.

Articles referenced in the episode:

Tour 1: A Tourist

Tour 2: A Detective

Tour 3: A Judge

Tour 11: Networking in OKC at a Glance

Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com.