Connections That Matter

Business Networking Done Right
  • 5.0 (8)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Connections That Matter is a business networking podcast featuring real stories of growth through relationships. Host Andrew Johnson interviews Northern Colorado entrepreneurs and small business owners who share how strategic networking, trust, and referrals shaped their journeys. You’ll learn practical insights on networking, referral marketing, and relationship-based business growth—plus the mindsets and habits that help local leaders build communities and businesses that last. Connect with Andrew + Northern Colorado Networking Events Want to meet our guests (and maybe be a future guest yourself)? Upcoming Next Level Networking events: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

  1. Systems, Culture, and Freedom: Tim Jordan’s Playbook for Service Businesses

    20H AGO

    Systems, Culture, and Freedom: Tim Jordan’s Playbook for Service Businesses

    Serial entrepreneur Tim Jordan has bought six businesses, started three more, and sold five of them—most in the service space. In this episode, he shares how he went from a 21-year-old buying a small window tint shop to leading 100+ employees at Palmer Flowers and now building Service Catalyst, a national peer community for service-based business owners. Tim breaks down how he uses systems, scorecards, and culture to get himself out of day-to-day chaos and into true ownership—while staying intentionally accessible to help other entrepreneurs win. If you’re growing a service business and feeling stuck, this conversation will feel uncomfortably relatable in the best way. 🔹 Why Tim bought his first business at 21 (and how an early banker took a chance on him) 🔹 The systems shift that took him from “doer” to “leader” at 100+ employees 🔹 How one beer with a stranger (Michael from NOCO Pet Doors) sparked Service Catalyst 🔹 What early-stage service owners really need: community, scorecards, and clear next steps 🔹 Tim’s networking philosophy: show up helpful, energetic, and insightful—without expecting a return 🔹 How he sees Northern Colorado as a “big small town” and why that matters for relationships Guest Recommends (Connections Tim Highlights) 🔹 Michael Weant – NOCO Pet Doors (service entrepreneur Tim mentored from early stages) 🔹 Spiro Palmer – Palmer Flowers (foundational Northern Colorado business leader) 🔹 Chris Burns – Bank of Colorado (commercial banker who backed Tim’s first acquisition) Join Our In-Person Events Want to meet guests like Tim and other Northern Colorado business owners in person? 🔹 Check out our upcoming networking events: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909 About Connections That Matter Connections That Matter highlights Northern Colorado’s best networkers and the real relationships behind their success—so you can learn how to build a referral-driven business, one conversation at a time. Timestamps 0:00 – Why running a business is lonely (and why community matters) 0:51 – Tim’s journey: 9 businesses, 5 exits, and a flower shop powerhouse 3:30 – Getting people to believe in you: banks, sellers, and key advocates 4:26 – Giving value first as Tim’s core networking strategy 7:10 – Going from “doer” to leader: systems, SOPs, and empowering a team 9:02 – The Michael Went story and the birth of Service Catalyst 10:15 – Why community trumps courses for early-stage service owners 13:38 – Cross-selling, upselling, and building real revenue levers 19:47 – Breaking goals into weekly scorecards (and why most owners don’t) 22:33 – Intentional, targeted networking vs. random events 25:08 – Staying accessible even after success 29:18 – Northern Colorado as a “big small town” and how that shapes business

    34 min
  2. From Shy Cleaner to Power Connector with Ninoska Mallory of Cleanspot

    DEC 22

    From Shy Cleaner to Power Connector with Ninoska Mallory of Cleanspot

    What’s the difference between “pretty clean” and Cleanspot clean? In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Ninoska Mallory, owner of Cleanspot, to talk about top-to-bottom cleaning, unforgettable client experiences, and how she went from shy networker in the corner to one of Northern Colorado’s most generous referral givers. Ninoska shares how she built a reputation that gets her tagged in Facebook groups from every direction, the overlooked areas that are probably filthy in your home or office, and how she uses networking to create a whole ecosystem of trusted service providers for her clients. About Ninoska & Cleanspot 🔹 Owner of Cleanspot, providing thorough residential and commercial cleaning in Northern Colorado 🔹 Specializes in top-to-bottom deep cleans that can take 10–15+ hours per home 🔹 Uses certified 100% eco-friendly products for healthier homes and workplaces 🔹 Serves clients from Denver through Fort Collins with a trusted, background-checked team What We Cover 🔹 What “Cleanspot clean” really means and why clients say, “I didn’t know my house could look like this” 🔹 The most commonly missed dirty spots in homes and offices (and why they matter) 🔹 How Ninoska builds trust with walkthroughs, one-sheets, and clear expectations 🔹 Her journey from very shy to confident networker and prolific referral giver 🔹 How she builds strategic partnerships with organizers, realtors, and other cleaners statewide 🔹 Why your physical space impacts your stress, image, and even your brand Why You Should Listen 🔹 You own or manage a home, office, or rental and want it truly “show ready” 🔹 You’re a service-based business owner who wants to turn networking into real partnerships 🔹 You struggle with clutter, organization, or keeping up with cleaning and need a mindset shift 🔹 You want to see how a quiet, shy personality can still become a powerful connector in the community Guest Name Recommends 🔹 Tillie Peart – Desperado Realty Real Estate Partner  Connect with Ninoska & Cleanspot 🔹 Office: 970-535-8885 🔹 Direct: 970-672-6878 Come Network with Us (Be a Future Guest!) 🔹 See upcoming Next Level Networking / NIA events and workshops: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909 00:00 Intro – Meet Ninoska from Cleanspot 00:57 What “Cleanspot clean” really means 01:37 From Denver commercial cleaning to Northern Colorado 02:21 The most overlooked dirty spots in homes and offices 03:07 Night crews, early mornings, and ongoing commercial accounts 03:56 Building trust with walkthroughs, one-sheets, and eco-friendly products 05:11 Customizing every clean to each client’s needs 05:58 From very shy to confident networker 07:33 The kind of people who stand out at networking events 08:21 Partnering with organizers, realtors, and other cleaning companies 09:37 20+ years of cleaning in California and Colorado 09:54 Organization, planning your days, and feeling calmer at home 10:55 Clean spaces and your professional image 11:55 Recurring clients and long-term residential relationships 12:43 How Ninoska generates referrals for others in her network 14:15 Courage to stop hiding in the corner and start conversations 15:19 Who Cleanspot loves to partner with (service-based pros) 15:48 How to get on Ninoska’s schedule

    17 min
  3. Getting Your Team in Their Working Genius with Robin Baker of The People Factor

    DEC 15

    Getting Your Team in Their Working Genius with Robin Baker of The People Factor

    What if your team’s “people problems” are actually genius problems? In this episode, Andrew sits down with HR consultant and Working Genius facilitator Robin Baker of The People Factor to talk about building teams that actually work well together. Why You Should Listen 🔹 You lead (or want to lead) a small team and feel like things keep falling through the cracks. 🔹 You’re curious how the Working Genius model can improve hiring, delegation, and morale. 🔹 You’ve grown on “duct tape HR” and suspect there are compliance gaps you can’t see. In this episode we cover: 🔹 What the Working Genius assessment really measures (it’s more about energy than personality). 🔹 Common missing “geniuses” on teams—especially Galvanizing and Tenacity—and how that shows up day to day. 🔹 How to tell if you have a people problem, a role problem, or a process problem. 🔹 When to bring in HR support (ideally with your first hire) and the most common gaps Robin finds. 🔹 The explosion of Colorado employment-law changes and why “copy-paste” handbooks aren’t enough anymore. 🔹 Practical networking tips from an HR pro: turning one-on-ones into real referral partnerships. Guest Recommends 🔹 Kelly Vaughan – IT & security partner and co-networker (NOCO Connect / NIA) Want to meet more Northern Colorado business owners in person? Check out our upcoming Next Level Networking events: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909 0:00 Meet Robin Baker & The People Factor 0:52 What is the Working Genius model? 3:38 When your team is missing a “genius” (Galvanizing, Tenacity, etc.) 5:00 Spotting people vs. role vs. process problems 7:03 Why most clients find Robin through referrals 8:05 Partnering with Kelly Vaughn and NOCO Connect 10:00 How to network well inside a recurring group 11:30 People-first HR: advocating for your team and your business 12:40 When to bring in HR (and what most owners miss) 16:16 Colorado law changes and compliance landmines 18:22 What happens when everyone is in their Working Genius 18:51 How to connect with Robin & The People Factor

    20 min
  4. From Junk to Genuine Connections with Michael Kane of Rubbish Works

    DEC 8

    From Junk to Genuine Connections with Michael Kane of Rubbish Works

    When someone finally says “I can’t deal with this garage/estate/basement anymore,” Michael Kane is often the first call. In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Michael, owner of Rubbish Works of Northern Colorado, to talk about what really happens behind the scenes of “junk removal” — and how he’s built a five-star, relationship-driven business in a competitive market. Michael shares how compassion, professionalism, and follow-through turned a new franchise into a Best of NOCO winner with nearly 150 Google reviews in under a year. From hoarder-level cleanouts to last-minute commercial jobs where other vendors bailed, his story is all about showing up, doing what you say you’ll do, and asking for the review. ✨ In this episode, we talk about: ✨ What “full-service junk removal” really looks like for homes, estates, and businesses ✨ How Michael puts anxious or embarrassed clients at ease in tough situations ✨ The simple review strategy that helped Rubbish Works explode on Google ✨ Why networking has been crucial to growing a new service business in Northern Colorado ✨ What it’s really like competing with long-established national franchises ✨ How Michael thinks about persistence, market share, and adding a second truck and crew 💡 Why You Should Listen If you’re a service-based business owner, this episode is a playbook in how to launch in a crowded space, earn trust quickly, and turn happy customers into vocal fans. If you’re a realtor, property manager, or homeowner staring down an overwhelming cleanout, you’ll also get a clear picture of what a good junk removal partner can actually do for you — beyond “just hauling stuff away.” Connect with Michael Kane & Rubbish Works of Northern Colorado 📧 Email: mKane@rubbishworks.com 📞 Phone: 970-402-8879 🌐 Search: https://www.rubbishworks.com/northern-colorado/ Connect with Business Networking Done Right & Upcoming Events Want to meet more Northern Colorado entrepreneurs like Michael in person? Check out upcoming Next Level Networking and Business Labs here: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909 00:00 – Why junk removal is more emotional than you think 00:48 – What Rubbish Works actually does (and what they won’t touch) 02:16 – Putting clients at ease during estate and hoarder cleanouts 03:31 – How Michael hustled to nearly 150 Google reviews 05:12 – The exact follow-up system he uses to get more 5-star reviews 08:32 – Competing with big, established franchises in Northern Colorado 09:53 – Using networking groups to launch a new local brand 11:08 – Growth goals, second truck, and expanding the service area 12:02 – One-off jobs vs. repeat clients and realtor partnerships 13:25 – Helping clients let go of their “stuff” without judgment 14:37 – When “I just have a little” turns into five truckloads 15:27 – Serving people respectfully while you’re in their space 16:21 – Hidden treasures and memorable finds on cleanout jobs 17:56 – Real talk for new entrepreneurs entering crowded markets 19:30 – How to connect with Michael and Rubbish Works

    21 min
  5. Content, Community, Closings: How Austin Foss Grows His Mortgage Business

    DEC 1

    Content, Community, Closings: How Austin Foss Grows His Mortgage Business

    In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with mortgage advisor Austin Foss, who moved from the Texas heat to Northern Colorado—and brought his lending business with him. Austin specializes in helping veterans, first-time homebuyers, and relocating families actually understand the mortgage process so they feel confident instead of overwhelmed. From navigating two very different markets (Austin and Colorado) to using content and networking to build trust, he shows why great lending is more about relationship than interest rate. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How Austin relocated from Texas to Colorado and kept serving clients in both statesThe surprising similarities between the Austin and Denver marketsWhy he focuses on purchase loans instead of chasing every refi boomHow he serves veterans using the VA loan and better educationUsing social media content to “pre-introduce” himself to clients and partnersWhy he aims to be a great #2 lender (not rip existing relationships away)The “homebuying village” every buyer needs: agent, inspector, insurance, lenderWhat to look for when you’re choosing a loan officer (beyond just the rate)Why you should listen:  If you’re a realtor, home service pro, or business owner, you’ll hear how a relationship-driven mortgage advisor thinks, collaborates, and communicates—so you can better serve your own clients and partners. If you’re a future homebuyer, this will give you a clear picture of what a good lender should be doing for you and how to prepare for your next purchase. Connect with Austin Foss  Mortgage Advisor – Licensed in Colorado & Texas, serving Northern Colorado and beyond  Phone: 713-249-3470 Website: www.austinfoss.com Want to come network with us?  Come meet past podcast guests, Andrew, and other Northern Colorado business owners at our upcoming Next Level Networking events: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909 00:00 Meet Austin Foss – from Texas to Northern Colorado 01:00 Moving a mortgage business across state lines 02:55 Austin vs. Denver: how the markets really compare 05:00 Serving veterans and first-time buyers with better education 07:10 How networking helps Austin stand out from other lenders 08:24 Social media content as a “warm introduction” 10:09 Starting over in Northern Colorado and becoming the trusted “number two” lender 12:31 Refis vs. purchases: why Austin focuses on purchase loans 13:30 What changed when the refi boom ended 15:35 Building a smooth, repeatable mortgage process 18:00 The “homebuying village”: inspectors, insurance agents, and realtors 21:20 How to work with Austin and why his cell is the main line 23:00 Final thoughts and how to connect

    24 min
  6. How Community and Co-Working Fuel a Modern Financial Advisor – with Ben Voss

    NOV 24

    How Community and Co-Working Fuel a Modern Financial Advisor – with Ben Voss

    In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with independent financial advisor Ben Voss of Raymond James to talk about the human side of money: life transitions, trust, and the power of showing up in your community. Ben shares how he built his book of business the hard way—knocking on doors for three years—then rebuilt momentum after COVID by anchoring himself in co-working spaces like Desk Chair and getting back into intentional networking. From helping clients roll over old 401(k)s to walking with them through divorce, business sales, and retirement, Ben focuses on being a calm, consultative voice instead of a pushy salesperson. They also dig into how to make networking less dreadful and more meaningful: finding a “wingman,” choosing the right rooms, and going in with the mindset that you might meet a future best friend (or even your future spouse). What we cover in this episode: How Ben became an independent advisor with Raymond James and what that actually means for his clientsWhy consistent contact and simple explanations matter more than fancy jargonHow co-working at Desk Chair and hanging out at Sandoz turned into real friendships and client relationshipsThe role referrals play in Ben’s business—from realtors and divorce attorneys to DJs and brewery ownersPractical advice for people in transition (divorce, job change, selling a business, rolling over a 401(k))How to know if a financial advisor is a good fit for you—and what red flags to watch forNetworking mindset shifts: embracing discomfort, finding a wingman, and not treating events like a choreWhy you should listen:  This episode is for anyone who’s: An entrepreneur or professional who knows they should be networking more, but feels rusty or hesitantIn a life or career transition and wondering when and how to bring a financial advisor into the pictureCurious what a good advisor-client relationship really looks like (beyond product pitches and jargon)Looking for a real-world example of how genuine relationships and community can build a business over timeBen’s down-to-earth approach to money, relationships, and growth will give you both confidence and practical next steps—whether you’re starting with $50 a month or managing multiple retirement and business accounts. Connect with Ben Voss: Phone: 970-420-9051Email: ben.voss@raymondjames.comWebsite: https://www.raymondjames.com/benvoss Want to come network with us? Check out upcoming events and Next Level Networking sessions here: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

    22 min
  7. The Art of Confidence: Christina Gressianu on Portraits, Empowerment & Authentic Connection

    NOV 17

    The Art of Confidence: Christina Gressianu on Portraits, Empowerment & Authentic Connection

    In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Christina Gressianu, award-winning photographer and owner of Christina Gressianu Photo Studio in downtown Loveland. Christina is known for creating portraits that go far beyond the surface—images that help people feel confident, capable, and genuinely seen. Over her 25-year journey behind the camera, Christina has built a process that blends artistry with empathy. She shares the stories behind some of her most meaningful sessions, including the emotional moment when she helped a woman smile for the first time in 50 years. Her approach is rooted in connection, trust, and understanding each client’s unique story. In This Episode How Christina developed her signature “Lumira” processWhat she’s learned about confidence from photographing thousands of peopleWhy authentic photography matters more than ever, even in the age of AIThe importance of community, networking, and mentorship in growing a creative businessLessons from competing at the international ICON AwardsHow she helps clients who “hate having their picture taken” finally love the way they lookWhy This Conversation Matters If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or anyone whose work involves showing up publicly, this episode is a reminder that your image is not about perfection. It’s about presence. Christina offers practical insight into what makes a strong headshot, why authenticity builds trust, and how a great portrait can support your career, your confidence, and your personal brand. Connect with Christina Website: photocg.co Instagram: @photocg Studio: Downtown Loveland, Colorado Join Us at Upcoming Events If you’d like to meet other Northern Colorado business leaders—or even be featured on a future episode—you can find all upcoming events here:  https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

    23 min
  8. From Cringe to Clients: Jen Peterson on Showing Up & Selling on Social Media

    NOV 10

    From Cringe to Clients: Jen Peterson on Showing Up & Selling on Social Media

    In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Jen Peterson, founder of Slay Social with Jen, to talk about how business owners can stop hiding behind their logo and start showing up confidently on camera. Jen helps entrepreneurs figure out what to post, how to say it, and how to turn views into paying clients—without needing thousands of followers or fancy gear. She shares real, practical advice on pushing past the “this feels cringy” stage, using AI tools wisely, and creating content that actually leads to sales. 💡 In This Episode: ✨ Why social media for business is totally different than posting for fun ✨ How to get over being on camera when it feels awkward and scary ✨ “The price of entry is feeling stupid” — and why that’s actually freeing ✨ Why you don’t need a big audience to have a profitable business ✨ Simple ways to get more eyeballs through collaboration & tagging local spots ✨ How to create content throughout your day without a big production ✨ Using AI (ChatGPT, Claude, Opus Clip) to save time and create better content ✨ When it’s time to hire help or start running ads ✨ How in-person networking and online content work together for growth 💡 Why You Should Listen: If you’ve ever thought, “I know I should be posting more, but I hate being on camera and I don’t know what to say,” this episode is for you. Jen breaks down social media in a way that’s doable, human, and focused on what actually matters—clients and conversions, not just likes and views. You’ll walk away with practical ideas you can implement immediately, even if all you have is a phone, 20 spare minutes, and a willingness to be a beginner. 📣 People & Tools Jen Mentions: Local coffee shops & boutiques as easy collab partnersOpus Clip for repurposing long-form video into clipsChatGPT for copy and ideasClaude AI for marketing-focused content and strategy🌐 Connect with Jen Peterson: 💻 Website: slaysocialwithjen.com 📱 Instagram: Slay Social with Jen 🎟 Want to come network with us? Meet other Colorado business owners (and future podcast guests!) at our in-person events: 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

    20 min
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5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Connections That Matter is a business networking podcast featuring real stories of growth through relationships. Host Andrew Johnson interviews Northern Colorado entrepreneurs and small business owners who share how strategic networking, trust, and referrals shaped their journeys. You’ll learn practical insights on networking, referral marketing, and relationship-based business growth—plus the mindsets and habits that help local leaders build communities and businesses that last. Connect with Andrew + Northern Colorado Networking Events Want to meet our guests (and maybe be a future guest yourself)? Upcoming Next Level Networking events: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

Information

  • Creator
    Business Networking Done Right
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Connections That Matter
  • Show Website
    Connections That Matter