How do you build real relationships that drive revenue and open doors to new opportunities? In this episode, I sit down with business development powerhouse Jim Ries to break down the art of strategic networking, collaboration, and event-driven growth. Jim isn’t just talking theory—he’s in the trenches, creating partnerships, hosting innovative events, and helping professionals develop a book of business that actually delivers results.

We dive into his top three strategies for making connections that matter. Jim also reveals the hidden power of event partnerships and why most networking efforts fall flat. If you’ve ever struggled to get a prospect to return your call or wondered how to stand out in a crowded market, this episode is packed with information you can put into action right away.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• A fresh approach to networking that eliminates awkward small talk

• The secret to creating events people actually want to attend

• How to turn casual connections into long-term business relationships

• The #1 mistake professionals make when trying to grow their network

• A simple strategy to get in front of more high-value prospects

• Why traditional networking fails—and what to do instead

• How to leverage partnerships to multiply your reach effortlessly

If you enjoyed this conversation and want to connect with Jim, reach out to him via email at jries@offitkurman.com or find him on LinkedIn. And if you found value in this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use these insights!

Resources Mentioned:

Connect with Jim on LinkedIn

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Think you’re either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you’re closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family.

This isn’t your standard “how-to” guide. Alison’s research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections

• The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate

• Why humor isn’t about being funny—but about finding the fun

• Alison’s favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat

• How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue

• Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities

Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you’ll want to try out immediately.

Resources Mentioned:

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Check out Alison’s website

Alison’s Book: Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves

What does it take to truly excel under pressure, build an unbeatable team, and achieve your goals?

In this episode, I sit down with Rich Diviney, retired Navy SEAL officer and author, to uncover the secrets behind human performance and team dynamics. Rich shares his insights on the attributes that determine success, how to identify them in ourselves and others, and what separates good performers from exceptional ones. We dive into the profound difference between skills and attributes, the power of humility, and how to leverage resilience and perseverance in both life and business.

Whether you're striving to grow your business, lead a high-performing team, or simply become the best version of yourself, this episode will keep you moving forward. Tune in and find out what it really takes to thrive in uncertain and challenging environments.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• The difference between skills and attributes—and why one matters more under pressure

• The essential attribute for bouncing back after setbacks

• Why humility is the secret weapon of high-performing teams

• How to focus only on what you can control and avoid the trap of overthinking

• The surprising link between your identity and your performance

• Why perseverance without resilience can lead to burnout

• The Navy SEAL approach to breaking down overwhelming challenges

• A quick tool to master compartmentalization and stay focused under stress

Resources Mentioned:

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Jonny Miller’s Episode on Nervous System Mastery

Henning Streubel’s Episode on Quickly Processing Setbacks

Check out Rich’s Company’s Website

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