Network = Networth

Dalene Allen

Join the "Network = Networth" podcast as The Networking Queen, Dalene Allen, interviews successful business professionals who share their stories of how chance encounters have led to meaningful relationships. Our aim is to highlight the importance of building connections and expanding your network, not only for business growth but also for personal fulfillment.  During each episode, our guests will discuss their background, what drew them to their careers, and the pivotal moments and connections that have shaped their success. We ask our guests to share their top tips for networking and building strong relationships to close each episode. Tune in to gain insights and inspiration for taking your own career and personal life to the next level!

  1. 1d ago

    When Life Changes, Are You Financially Ready? with Wendy Brookhouse

    In this episode of Network Equals Net Worth, Dalene sits down with Wendy Brookhouse, founder and Chief Strategist of Black Star Wealth, for an important conversation about being financially prepared when life doesn't go according to plan. With nearly two decades of experience, Wendy helps professionals and entrepreneurs take control of their financial lives, cut through complexity, and make more intentional decisions about their money. As a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Value Builder, she combines financial strategy with practical guidance to help people align their finances with what matters most to them. Dalene and Wendy talk about the financial conversations many families put off, including wills, power of attorney, insurance, estate planning, and what happens when one person in a relationship has always handled the finances. Wendy explains why both partners need to understand their financial picture and how planning ahead can make an incredibly difficult time a little easier. They also discuss preparing for illness and unexpected life changes, knowing your financial end goal, and the importance of building a plan before you actually need it. The conversation comes back to networking too. Wendy shares how meaningful connections have helped her grow personally and professionally, why she values reconnecting with people, and how finding the right people in the room can lead to unexpected opportunities and collaborations. Wendy is also the author of Burn Your Budget: How to Spend Your Way to Financial Freedom, host of The Number podcast, and is regularly featured in national media for her perspective on the financial decisions that shape careers, businesses, and lives. Whether you're a business owner, part of a couple, or simply wondering if your financial affairs are truly in order, this conversation is a reminder that being prepared isn't about expecting the worst. It's about making life easier when things change. Learn more about Wendy Brookhouse: 🔗 Black Star Wealth 🔗 LinkedIn Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Connect on  Linkedin

  2. Aug 10

    Building Networks That Create Opportunity with Ed Leach (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of this conversation, Ed Leach shares the lessons he's learned from a lifetime of building meaningful relationships, creating opportunities, and helping others succeed through the power of networking. Drawing on decades of experience as an educator, entrepreneur, and community builder, Ed explains why some of the best opportunities come from showing up, staying curious, volunteering with purpose, and surrounding yourself with people who genuinely want to make a difference. Through personal stories and practical examples, he demonstrates that strong networks are built through generosity, trust, and consistent effort over time.  Dalene and Ed also discuss the importance of maintaining relationships, becoming a connector, asking for help, and staying open to unexpected opportunities. Together, they explore how networking is about much more than growing your career. It's about building communities, connecting people with purpose, and creating possibilities that benefit everyone involved.  Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or simply someone looking to build stronger relationships, this episode offers practical reminders that meaningful connections don't happen by chance. They happen because we choose to invest in people. Learn more about Ed Leach: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 www.agingproactively.com  🔗 Top 7 Over 70 Atlantic Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Connect on  Linkedin

  3. Jul 28

    Building a Business That Gives You Freedom with Michelle Carter

    In this episode of Network Equals Net Worth, Dalene sits down with Michelle Carter, entrepreneur, business mentor, and owner of Sincerely, Skin, to talk about building a business that creates freedom, flexibility, and opportunity. Michelle shares her journey from registered social worker to beauty business owner, growing her skincare clinic into a thriving business while creating systems that gave her the freedom to pursue new opportunities. She also talks about launching the Beauty Business Start Up Academy and the Beauty Business Collective, where she helps aspiring beauty professionals turn their ideas into successful businesses.  The conversation also explores Michelle's newest venture as a Travel Advantage Ambassador with MWR Life, where she helps people save on travel, explore the world, and create an additional income stream through a membership-based travel platform. Along the way, she shares practical insights about customer service, building loyal clients through referrals, and why creating multiple income streams can open the door to greater flexibility and financial freedom.  Whether you're growing a business, dreaming of travelling more, or looking for ways to create a life that fits your goals, Michelle's story is a reminder that success doesn't have to follow just one path. Learn more about Michelle Carter: 🔗 Sincerely, Skin 🔗 LinkedIn Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Connect on  Linkedin

  4. Jul 21

    Changing the Way We Think About Aging with Ed Leach (Part 1)

    In this episode of Network Equals Net Worth, Dalene sits down with Ed Leach, educator, entrepreneur, and champion of purposeful aging, to discuss why we need to rethink the way we view aging and the opportunities that come with longer, healthier, and more purposeful lives. Drawing on more than five decades of experience connecting people, mentoring entrepreneurs, and leading innovation, Ed shares how meaningful relationships and strong networks have shaped his career and continue to drive positive change today. From honoring his late wife through the creation of the Top 7 Over 70 Atlantic Awards Gala to advocating for healthier aging and stronger communities, he reminds us that some of life's greatest contributions happen well beyond retirement.  Together, Dalene and Ed explore the importance of purposeful living, intentional listening, mentorship, and building connections across generations. They also discuss why older adults are one of society's greatest untapped resources, and how creating opportunities for people of every age benefits individuals, businesses, and communities alike.  Whether you're planning your next chapter, growing your professional network, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on aging, this conversation offers practical insights and plenty of inspiration. Learn more about Ed Leach: 🔗 Website: www.agingproactively.com  🔗 LinkedIn Learn more about Top 7 Over 70 Atlantic Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Connect on  Linkedin

  5. Jul 14

    From Worry Bunny to Wonder Bunny with Sahrit Weinstein

    In this episode of Network Equals Net Worth, Dalene sits down with Sahrit Weinstein, dance instructor, creative entrepreneur, author, and mom of three, to explore how courage is not about eliminating fear. It is about taking one small step at a time. Growing up in Jerusalem, Sahrit developed both a love for adventure and a deep sense of caution. Through personal stories of overcoming her fear of flying, publishing her first book, and eventually learning to love roller coasters she once swore she would never ride, she shares how those small moments of bravery created a lasting confidence that changed the way she lives.  Sahrit helps women go from "Worry Bunnies" to "Wonder Bunnies" by showing that confidence is not something you wait to feel. It is something you build through playful courage, self trust, and choosing curiosity over fear. Whether it is standing near the roller coaster instead of riding it, saying yes to a new opportunity, or simply taking one small step outside your comfort zone, every brave decision creates momentum for the next one.  If you have ever felt held back by fear, self doubt, or the belief that you have to be fearless before trying something new, this conversation will encourage you to take that next small step and discover what is possible on the other side. Learn more about Sahrit Weinstein: 📷 Instagram: @sahritweinstein 🔗 Website: Coming soon at sahrit.com Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Connect on  Linkedin

About

Join the "Network = Networth" podcast as The Networking Queen, Dalene Allen, interviews successful business professionals who share their stories of how chance encounters have led to meaningful relationships. Our aim is to highlight the importance of building connections and expanding your network, not only for business growth but also for personal fulfillment.  During each episode, our guests will discuss their background, what drew them to their careers, and the pivotal moments and connections that have shaped their success. We ask our guests to share their top tips for networking and building strong relationships to close each episode. Tune in to gain insights and inspiration for taking your own career and personal life to the next level!