262804066 162. The Secret to Networking for Introvert Executives & Entrepreneurs (Without the Overwhelm) | Guest: Heather Nelson - Beyond Awareness: Closing the Gap Between Knowing and Doing

Episode 162

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Published on:

22nd Jul 2025

162. The Secret to Networking for Introvert Executives & Entrepreneurs (Without the Overwhelm) | Guest: Heather Nelson

I used to write my "elevator pitch" in my phone's notes app before networking events. Like, word-for-word what I'd say if someone asked what I do. Because the thought of blanking out and stumbling over my words while some extrovert waited for me to get to the point? Absolutely not.

Here's what my guest, Heather Nelson, taught me: the most successful business relationships aren't built by the person who talks the most.

Topics Covered:

  • Why traditional networking advice doesn't work for introverts
  • The biggest networking mistakes that actually repel potential connections
  • How to transition from online-only business building to in-person relationships
  • The mindset shift that makes networking feel like making friends instead of selling
  • Real examples of connections that led to business growth and lasting friendships
  • Why the events you don't want to attend often create the biggest opportunities

Your Top Takeaways:

Instead of dreading networking events and forcing yourself into uncomfortable situations that drain your energy for days...

You'll have a clear, sustainable system for building the professional relationships that actually matter. No more imposter syndrome. No more energy crashes. No more wondering if you're "doing it right."

This means: You can advance your career and grow your business while staying true to who you are - coming home energized instead of completely depleted, with genuine connections that lead to real opportunities.

Featured Guest:

Heather Nelson, founder of The Connection Hive and host of Life Conversations with a Twist podcast. Heather has spent over a decade mastering the art of authentic networking and helps business owners build relationships that drive real results.

Resources Mentioned:

Free Calm Mind Blueprint: www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind-pod

Connect with Heather Nelson:

Ways to work with Samantha:

1:1 coaching: Now accepting applications, 1 spot open. Learn More here: www.samanthapenkoff.com/working-together

Accepting applications for September: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/assessments/2148353310

Connect with Sam on IG: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.s.says

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About the Podcast

Beyond Awareness: Closing the Gap Between Knowing and Doing
Closing the Gap Between Knowing and Doing
Beyond Awareness (formerly Journal Entries) is for successful women in leadership and business who know exactly what they need to do but can't make themselves do it.

You know you need to prioritize yourself, delegate more, set boundaries, stop bringing work home. You've tried therapy, coaching, retreats. You know the solution - but you either can't follow through, or when you DO, it doesn't stick.

Host Samantha Hawley helps business owners and executives earning $100k+ excavate the root beliefs underneath the execution gap. Why do you keep not doing the thing? Why doesn't it feel better when you do? Using strategic journaling and emotional excavation, we go beyond awareness into why you're actually stuck in the pattern.

This isn't about more tactics or tips. This is about understanding why awareness isn't enough and what actually needs to shift for you to change.

You'll hear about: decision fatigue, why you can't prioritize yourself, nervous system regulation, being present with your kids, root cause of overwhelm, why boundaries don't stick, self-sabotage patterns, and how your internal state impacts everything.

Perfect for: Female CFOs, VPs, directors, executives, business owners, and women in leadership who are tired of knowing what's wrong but not being able to change it.
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Samantha Hawley