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tl;dr Avoid the weirdo salesy networking by thinking about connection and staying comfortable.

Networking Unplugged

Most of us dread networking—the awkward icebreakers, the forced sales pitches, and that nagging pressure to be someone we’re not. But in this episode of Business as UNusual, Aicila sits down with Melissa Snow, business relationship strategist and founder of Powerful Women Rising, to turn everything you thought you knew about networking on its head. Melissa reveals why traditional networking leaves so many of us cold, and how introverts, the anxious, and the neurodivergent can thrive by ditching the “salesy weirdo” tactics in favor of authenticity, curiosity, and real connection. It turns out, the secret isn’t about finding clients or perfecting your elevator pitch—it’s about building a network as genuine as it is effective.

What makes this conversation so refreshing is Melissa’s commitment to finding—and helping others find—the version of networking that actually feels good. From virtual speed networking events to building communities where women support and champion each other’s growth, she unpacks actionable strategies for anyone who’s felt left out by business-as-usual advice. If you’ve ever wondered whether you have to change who you are to succeed in business, Melissa’s story and frameworks might be exactly what you need to chart an authentic, fulfilling path forward—one where your quirks are your assets and your relationships are the real ROI.

Listen Here to Business as Unusual

And remember- stay unusual-- Aicila

PS Curious about how I can help you bring ease into your workflow? Stop in at my Plaza room to learn more.