In this episode of Making the Connection , we’re joined by Laura Hancock—attorney, entrepreneur, and most recently, the Senior Franchise Closing Specialist for Casago—for a candid and insightful conversation about what it really takes to build genuine professional relationships across industries. Laura walks us through how she’s built and maintained meaningful connections throughout her career: from practicing law to launching and selling a successful business, to now leading multiple teams at a national education company. With warmth and real-world wisdom, we’re talking about the power of showing up consistently, the value of reaching out “just because,” and how we can stay visible without feeling like we’re overselling ourselves. We discuss: Relationships take time and consistent effort, regardless of remote, hybrid, or in-person work environments The importance of doing what you say you’ll do and offering help—not just asking for it How to nurture relationships without needing to meet in person Staying in touch with a simple call, text, or message “just because” Using LinkedIn and social media to keep relationships warm Empowering team members to share ideas and shape strategy If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to keep our networks alive without a system, how to navigate big career shifts, or how to promote your work without the cringe, this episode provides relatable stories and practical strategies to move forward with confidence. To learn more about Laura’s business, visit https://casago.com/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Hani's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this episode of Making the Connection , we’re joined by Hani Gera, global marketing and business development partner with Synterica for a thoughtful conversation about building real, lasting relationships in the B2B space. Hani shares why being authentic, listening deeply, and respecting cultural nuances matter far more than scripts or shortcuts. We unpack why B2B should really be thought of as Business to Business to Person and how seeing the human behind the title is non-negotiable for meaningful connection. We discuss: The balance between patience and persistence in relationship-building Why an engaged audience of 200 beats an unengaged list of 1,000 How to adapt your approach across different global cultures The power of listening over pitching Why it’s better to walk away from the wrong client than close a bad-fit deal What “giving value” actually means on platforms like LinkedIn How webinars, podcasts, and panels can turn cold leads warm Why direct messages shouldn’t be your first move This conversation is a grounded reminder that long-term business success starts with respect, trust, and generosity, not manipulation or hustle culture. Tune in for practical insights that will shift how you think about connecting in business. To learn more about Hani’s business, visit https://synertica.com/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Marla's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this episode of Making the Connection , we’re joined by marketing expert and fractional CMO, Marla Malkin for a rich conversation about building professional relationships that go far beyond the surface. With over two decades of experience as a business owner and strategist, Marla shares how leading with authenticity, generosity, and long-term thinking has helped her form meaningful partnerships—both within organizations and across industries. From fostering collaboration across siloed departments to turning industry peers (yes, even competitors) into trusted allies, Marla offers practical, grounded advice for anyone navigating today’s fragmented, digital-first work environment. We discuss: What makes a strong strategic partnership Why you shouldn't be afraid to network within your own industry Simple ways to build connection with your team—even virtually How to choose the right networking groups without spreading yourself thin The launch of Marla’s new national networking organization for high-level professionals How to maintain lasting relationships across cities, roles, and decades Whether you're a team leader, entrepreneur, or independent consultant, this episode will inspire you to show up more meaningfully and collaborate more effectively. Tune in and learn how to build relationships that last—no sales pitch required. To learn more about Marla’s business, visit https://malkinmarketing.com/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Ike's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this episode of Making the Connection , we’re joined by Ike Ubasineke, Founder of the app, Growdie, and the Grow or Die Club. He fully understands that connection doesn’t just happen—it’s built, one intentional moment at a time. After launching his business and realizing that leadership can be a lonely road, he set out to create a space where authenticity, support, and consistency are the norm—not the exception. We explore how categorizing relationships into roles like mentor, mentee, and friend can help you manage your energy, why being yourself (online and off) builds trust faster than anything else, and what it really takes to lead with your team instead of above it. From navigating burnout to building emotional resilience, this conversation is full of heart, hard-won wisdom, and practical insights you can start using right away. Whether you're leading a team, growing a business, or just trying to build deeper connections in your work life—this one’s for you. To learn more about Ike’s business and app, check out his website: https://growordie.club/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Penny's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts—it’s about building real, meaningful connections that open doors in unexpected ways. In this episode of Making the Connection , host, Angela Chong, sits down with the dynamic Penny Rose (CPA), who has mastered the art of networking through conferences, online communities, and unexpected spaces. They discuss the power of showing up consistently, the impact of remembering names and personal details, and why leading with value is the best way to build lasting professional relationships. Remember, the best opportunities come from the strongest connections—so don’t be afraid to talk to that person next to you in line! To learn more about Penny Rose, CPA, check out her website at https://mombizkidstrategy.com/legacy-launchpad —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Teddy's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

What makes a truly connected, high-performing team? In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Teddy Cheek, Marketing Leader at The Escape Game. They sit down to explore how aligning teams around mission, vision, and values leads to deeper trust, better performance, and a more fulfilling workplace culture. Timestamps for your listening notes: [6:15] Why a strong mission matters more than perks [12:30] How hiring the right people creates natural team chemistry [18:45] The role of guest feedback in shaping company culture [25:10] Creating experiences that foster connection beyond the workplace [32:20] Lessons from immersive entertainment that apply to leadership Book Recs: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara Raving Fans by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles Setting the Table by Danny Meyer Good to Great by Jim Collins The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni To book your next Escape Game, visit their website at https://theescapegame.com/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Kelsey's turn! And don't forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Kelsey Ley, Leadership and Development Consultant at Kelsey Ley Consulting. They sit down to explore the power of self-reflection in building authentic workplace relationships. Kelsey shares how her own journey as a manager led her to discover the deep connection between leadership effectiveness and personal growth. Together, they dive into the challenges managers face in fostering strong team dynamics, from overcoming resistance to assessments to balancing boundaries and rapport. Kelsey offers actionable strategies for helping managers develop self-awareness, build trust, and create a culture where differences are honored and communication thrives. Timestamps for your listening notes: [1:00] The importance of self-reflection in building genuine connections [3:23] The role of assessments in management and team development [6:00] The misconception of quick relationship-building vs. the reality of consistent effort [9:12] Why managers should care about building relationships with their team [11:42] Perspectives on choosing to stay an individual contributor vs. pursuing management [12:30] The role of boundaries in leadership and how they serve different individuals [17:00] Avoiding black-and-white thinking in team dynamics [19:16] Having difficult conversations [26:51] Where to begin when something feels “off” To learn more about Kelsey, visit her website at https://www.kelseyley.com/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Isabel's turn! And dont forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Isabel Sterne, Founder of IsabelSterne.com Isabel shares her thoughts on the art of developing genuine professional relationships—on LinkedIn and beyond. She shares her journey of transitioning from traditional job networking to building meaningful connections as a solopreneur, and how showing up authentically transformed their professional brand. Whether you're new to LinkedIn or looking to elevate your engagement, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you connect with purpose, grow your network, and stay inspired. Timestamps for your listening notes: [2:37] Why LinkedIn is a powerful tool for solopreneurs [6:38] First step in connecting with others [9:47] Challenges of aligning brands with values [11:50] Infusing personalities [16:10] Giving away expertise To learn more about Isabel, visit her website at https://www.isabelsterne.com/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Danielle's turn! And dont forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this episode of Making the Connection, Angela is joined by Danielle Desir Corbett, an entrepreneur, Founder and Mom who has mastered the art of building genuine professional relationships. Danielle shares her expert insights on securing sponsorships, crafting compelling pitches, and fostering authentic connections with clients and collaborators. She also opens up about the importance of finding the right coach and balancing work with personal life. Timestamps for your listening notes: [1:00] Creating sponsorship relationships [3:00] Attending conferences [3:45] How to cold-pitch for sponsors [6:00] Becoming concise [7:10] Beginning the professional connection [8:50] How can I be of service? [10:12] Maintaining relationships [13:00] Finding a coach and mentor [15:00] Danielle’s coaching services To learn more about Danielle, visit her website at https://danielledesir.com/ —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Happy Shoutout FriYAY, where my guests have the opportunity to "shout-out" colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. This week is Betsy's turn! And dont forget to listen in to our awesome convo! Happy FriYAY!! —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this episode of Making the Connection , Angela is joined by Betsy Wallace, who brings a wealth of experience in balancing personal and professional lives, staying solution-oriented, and building authentic connections. Together, we explore the importance of “living in the solution” rather than getting stuck in workplace conflicts and drama. Timestamps for your listening notes: [2:55] Genuine connection with colleagues, and not over-sharing [8:40] Bringing your personality to work [11:55] First step in connecting with others [15:12] How to connect professionally with others online [19:12] Burning bridges vs. natural endings [23:00] Living in the Solution [28:42] Pro tip: Dont fight in the comments [35:50] What to do when someone isn't respectful —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Welcome to our first FriYAY Shoutout, where my guests have the opportunity to shoutout colleagues or bosses who have left a lasting impression on them in the way they genuinely connect with others. Mark went above and beyond and is shouting out 5 leaders! Happy FriYAY!! Learn more about Booster at www.choosebooster.com —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

In this inaugural episode of Making the Connection , host Angela Chong speaks with Mark Norman, Vice President of Sales at Booster, about the delicate balance between art and science in building genuine professional relationships. Mark shares his insights on the importance of empathy in leadership, navigating difficult colleagues, and how to keep personal emotions in check when dealing with negativity in the workplace. Mark stresses the value of having a "soft heart and thick skin," allowing you to maintain empathy without taking criticism too personally. Through candid stories, he reveals how journaling, waiting before reacting, and seeking advice from trusted colleagues have helped him improve his approach to conflict resolution and professional communication. The conversation also explores: the importance of motivation in networking and leadership, where Mark challenges the typical "what can I gain?" mindset, encouraging professionals to focus on serving others instead. the need to balance relational art—like effective storytelling and public speaking—with organizational science, such as structured systems that ensure consistency in professional success. Resources Mentioned: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie Learn more about Booster at www.choosebooster.com —------- Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships. Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram @ makingtheconnectionpodcast…

Welcome to Making the Connection! A podcast for the WFH and remote professionals who still want to develop genuine professional relationships (and for all the other professionals who strive to do so, as well)!