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. Lucas Gillis on Networking, Leadership, and Retirement Plan Blind Spots

    1D AGO

    Lucas Gillis on Networking, Leadership, and Retirement Plan Blind Spots

    Episode Description + Highlights Northern Colorado business networking is about more than handing out business cards. In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew Johnson sits down with Lucas Gillis of SRP to talk about how genuine curiosity, leadership, and long-term relationship building open doors in business. Lucas also shares why retirement plans are often full of hidden blind spots and how business owners can avoid costly mistakes by getting the right guidance in place. Episode Highlights 🔹 Lucas explains his niche as a retirement plan advisor who helps businesses design, administer, and improve employer-sponsored retirement plans. 🔹 He shares why many business owners do not realize there are compliance issues in their plans until those problems become expensive. 🔹 Andrew and Lucas discuss why being top of mind matters in long sales cycles. 🔹 Lucas breaks down how he networks without leading with a sales pitch. 🔹 They talk about the value of stepping into leadership roles within networking communities. 🔹 Lucas shares practical advice for people who feel awkward or inexperienced in networking settings. Why You Should Listen 🔹 You will get practical networking advice that feels approachable and actionable. 🔹 You will hear how curiosity and generosity can make you more memorable in business circles. 🔹 You will learn why retirement plans can create major liability for business owners if ignored. 🔹 You will discover how leadership positions can accelerate trust and visibility in the community. 🔹 You will get insight into Northern Colorado networking groups, chambers, and young professional spaces. Businesses “Lucas Gillis” Recommends  🔹 FUEL – A welcoming young professionals networking community that helps people build confidence, connection, and community.  🔹 Loveland Chamber of Commerce – A solid place to build relationships and plug into the local business ecosystem.  🔹 Fort Collins Chamber of Commerce – Another strong networking avenue for connecting with local professionals and business leaders.  🔹 NoCo Works Sector Partnerships – A useful way to connect with leaders and decision-makers in specific industries like construction, hospitality, nonprofit, and finance. How to Contact Lucas Gillis Business line: 970-225-2001 Cell: 970-818-1241 Email: lGillis@SRPretire.com Timestamps 0:00 Why curiosity is such an effective networking tool. 0:16 Intro to Lucas Gillis from SRP. 0:51 What Lucas actually does in the retirement plan space. 2:11 Who Lucas needs to meet inside a company. 3:24 What the sales cycle looks like for retirement plan work. 4:37 Why being top of mind matters over time. 6:58 Lucas shares how his family business and SRP work together. 8:21 Favorite places to network in Northern Colorado. 11:46 How sector partnerships help people meet different kinds of decision-makers. 12:55 The value of taking leadership roles in networking spaces. 14:39 What Lucas sees in young professionals through FUEL. 16:59 Practical networking tips for people who do not feel like natural networkers. 18:59 How to connect with Lucas. 20:35 Andrew and Lucas talk about reputation as a connector.

    22 min
  2. Dog Training, Community, and Relationship-Based Growth with Scott & Holly from Barkbusters

    MAR 9

    Dog Training, Community, and Relationship-Based Growth with Scott & Holly from Barkbusters

    Business networking and referrals aren’t just for “business people”—they’re how trust gets built when you’re entering someone’s home and working with their family (including the dog). In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Scott and Holly from Barkbusters to talk dog behavior, client trust, and how getting active in the Northern Colorado community can outwork pure digital marketing. Episode Highlights 🔹 Why “digital-only” makes trust harder—and how in-person community presence changes everything. 🔹 What Barkbusters actually does inside the home (from new puppies to last-straw behavior cases). 🔹 The real root issue behind most “bad dog” problems: communication breakdowns. 🔹 Their origin story: from desperate client situation to owning the Northern Colorado Barkbusters territory. 🔹 How their “life of dog support” model creates long-term client confidence and referrals. 🔹 Networking as a couple: playing to your strengths, then intentionally splitting up to expand relationships. Why You Should Listen 🔹 You want more referral-based growth and less “hope marketing” online. 🔹 You run a business that requires high trust (in-home services, family-facing work, sensitive client situations). 🔹 You’re a dog person—and you want practical insight into calm, confident ownership without gimmicks. 🔹 You believe community presence and partnerships beat algorithms over the long run. Businesses “Scott & Holly” Recommends (if applicable) 🔹 Peppy’s Pet Care (Ann) — A key connector who helped them plug into the NOCO community and relationships. 🔹 Colorado Promotional Supplies (Sandy) — Helped them get branded items that support visibility and credibility. 🔹 Poudre Pet and Feed — Strong staff guidance and a personal success story that helped their rescue Husky thrive. 🔹 Metric Motors (Matt Seiler) — Came through in a stressful real-time moment and delivered great service. How to contact “Scott & Holly” Scott: 970-846-4809 Holly: 970-291-1413 Website: barkbusters.com (use the contact form / quiz to get started) Timestamps 0:00 Trust is harder in digital spaces—why community presence matters 0:24 Welcome + meet Scott & Holly (Barkbusters) 0:58 What Barkbusters does: in-home coaching for the full spectrum of dog behavior 1:49 Puppies, panic calls, and the emotional side of dog training 3:25 Why every dog (and every home) is different 5:13 Origin story: from client to Northern Colorado territory owners 7:14 The real “after” results: calm, confidence, and relationship with your dog 8:18 Growing the business: moving from digital-first to community-first 11:16 Networking for animal-service pros: getting in front of people and partners 12:09 Networking as a couple (the “dynamic duo” effect) 14:59 Trust when you enter the home—how referrals really happen 16:50 “Life of dog support” guarantee and what it means 19:16 Partnership they want: Poudre Pet and Feed + their personal testimonial 21:45 Best ways to contact them + a real networking win (Metric Motors) 22:55 Who to call for what—puppies, tough cases, and team approach

    25 min
  3. Messy Books to Clear Strategy: Bookkeeping Insights with Miriam Molina

    MAR 2

    Messy Books to Clear Strategy: Bookkeeping Insights with Miriam Molina

    Clean books aren’t just about taxes—they’re about clarity, confidence, and better business decisions. In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew Johnson sits down with Miriam Molina of Molina Bookkeeping to talk about why organized financials are one of the most powerful tools a business owner can have. Miriam shares how she helps small business owners get their books organized, prepare for tax season, and gain real insight into how their business is performing. Miriam also shares her journey from growing up in Nicaragua to studying agronomy in Honduras, earning a graduate degree in Illinois, and ultimately building a bookkeeping business serving entrepreneurs across Northern Colorado. Along the way, she discovered that bookkeeping wasn’t just a skill—it was something that genuinely clicked for her. They also discuss the value of networking, why accountants are often a key referral partner for bookkeepers, and how her bilingual services allow her to serve and support the Spanish-speaking business community. Takeaways from this episode: 🔹 Why separating personal and business finances is step one for every entrepreneur.  🔹 What a professional bookkeeper actually does (and why it matters).  🔹 The hidden mistakes that messy books can create.  🔹 How clean financial reports help owners make smarter decisions.  🔹 Why networking has been the primary growth driver of Miriam’s business.  🔹 Serving the Spanish-speaking business community through bilingual bookkeeping. Why You Should Listen: 🔹 If you’re a small business owner doing your own books and wondering if you’re doing it right.  🔹 If you want to understand how clean financials can help you scale your business.  🔹 If tax season always feels stressful or confusing.  🔹 If you’re curious how networking can help grow a professional services business.  🔹 If you want to hear the entrepreneurial journey of a Northern Colorado business owner. How to Contact Miriam Molina: Website: https://molinabooks.com Free consultation available through the website. Miriam works with small business owners across the United States and offers services in both English and Spanish. Timestamps 0:00 Why business owners should focus on growth instead of bookkeeping  0:12 Introduction to Miriam Molina and Molina Bookkeeping  0:55 What a professional bookkeeper actually does  1:53 What it’s like working with a professional bookkeeper  3:05 Why every business has unique bookkeeping needs  4:34 Advice for new business owners starting their financial systems  5:51 Working on your business vs. working in your business  6:32 Why Miriam hires someone to review her own books  7:10 Common mistakes business owners make in their books  9:10 Serving the Spanish-speaking business community  10:18 Networking with bilingual professionals  10:57 Teaching bookkeeping through the Latino Chamber and SBDC  11:42 Miriam’s networking strategy for growing her business  13:38 Miriam’s journey from Nicaragua to Northern Colorado  15:41 Why messy books don’t scare professional bookkeepers  17:03 Miriam’s goals for growing her business in 2026  17:44 How to connect with Miriam Molina

    20 min
  4. Make Friends, Not Just Returns: Networking Lessons from Tax Pro Richard Ross

    FEB 23

    Make Friends, Not Just Returns: Networking Lessons from Tax Pro Richard Ross

    Richard Ross, Enrolled Agent and founder of Ross Professional Accounting & Tax, shares why relationships matter more than return on investment when it comes to business networking and referrals. From 41 years as a DJ to becoming a trusted tax professional in Northern Colorado, Richard explains how personality, accountability, and proactive tax strategy help entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes and grow with confidence. Here is what we talk about: 🔹 CPA vs Enrolled Agent vs Bookkeeper — what’s the difference and why it matters. 🔹 Why waiting until Q1 to think about taxes puts you behind. 🔹 The easiest tax wins for small business owners (mileage tracking + bookkeeping). 🔹 Extension to file does NOT mean extension to pay. 🔹 “It’s easier to keep up than catch up” — staying ahead all year. 🔹 Networking advice: walk in like you already know everyone. 🔹 Why friendships create stronger referral pipelines than chasing ROI. Why You Should Listen 🔹 Learn practical tax advice that saves time, money, and stress. 🔹 Understand how accountability and proactive planning protect your business. 🔹 Discover how real business networking builds long-term referral relationships. 🔹 Get insight into building a personality-driven brand in a compliance-heavy industry. Businesses Richard Ross Recommends: 🔹 Ninoska (Residential Cleaning Professional) — Strong advocate, referral partner, and trusted collaborator who consistently connects Richard with quality clients 🔹 Local Property Managers & Trades Professionals — Richard highlights how mechanics, cleaners, and service providers often become unexpected but powerful referral partners How to Contact Richard Ross: 🔹 Phone: 970-852-0990 🔹 Website: www.rossprofessionaltax.com 🔹 Instagram: @RossProTaxGuy 🔹 Facebook: Ross Professional Accounting & Tax Timestamps: 0:15 – From DJ to tax professional: the transition story 2:02 – CPA vs Enrolled Agent explained 4:07 – Why tax planning can’t wait until Q1 6:41 – Extensions, penalties, and common tax misunderstandings 8:09 – Quick wins for entrepreneurs (bookkeepers + mileage tracking) 10:14 – Networking mindset: overcome shyness immediately 12:49 – Why relationship-driven tax service beats big-box firms 15:58 – Building referral relationships (Nanaska story) 18:34 – Ideal clients: solopreneurs and growing businesses 20:21 – “Your taxes don’t have to be taxing”

    21 min
  5. 44 Years of Craft: The Referral Habits That Keep Thomas Kern Booked

    FEB 16

    44 Years of Craft: The Referral Habits That Keep Thomas Kern Booked

    Thomas Kern has been painting for decades and networking in Northern Colorado for 10–15 years. In this episode, we dig into why painting is really a people-and-prep business, how Thomas earns trust inside customers’ homes, and the relationship habits that keep referrals flowing from electricians, realtors, and property managers. Episode Highlights: 🔹 Thomas has been networking 10–15 years and has watched the trades networking scene evolve fast 🔹 Why painting is a people business + prep business (and why customers underestimate prep) 🔹 How he sets expectations on paint grades, sheen, durability, and what “scrubbable” actually means 🔹 What repeat clients value most: communication, consistency, and integrity 🔹 His networking “secret”: remember one personal detail and bring it up next time 🔹 Referral partners that drive real work: roofers, electricians, realtors, and property managers 🔹 A real story of how a paint job helped someone emotionally “move on” after loss Why You Should Listen 🔹 Learn how top trades pros win referrals through trust, follow-through, and clean execution 🔹 Get practical insight on paint quality, prep, and pricing conversations without sounding salesy 🔹 Steal Thomas’s relationship-building habits for networking events and 1:1s Businesses Thomas Kern Recommends 🔹 Dunham Electrical (Bob Dunham) — Professional crews, strong communication, clean work, reliable follow-through 🔹 Richard Ross (CPA) — Approachable, generous with answers, high trust and deep tax/payroll knowledge How to contact Thomas Kern 🔹 Call or text: 970-444-5003 🔹 Thomas prefers phone/text and is known for calling people back quickly. Timestamps 0:00 Connecting with customers 0:13 Intro + Thomas’s networking history 1:00 How he started painting at 14 (and why oil paint taught speed + cleanup) 2:20 How paint chemistry and techniques changed over decades 3:20 Painting = people + prep + education 6:27 How referral partners confidently recommend him 9:20 When homeowners usually paint (and why most wait too long) 11:03 Pricing, paint grades, and matching expectations 13:36 The emotional impact of a “fresh start” paint job 16:45 Bad paint stories + fixing rushed work 17:10 Networking groups he likes (NIA, Tabletop, Sure Networking, Level Up) 19:20 Speed networking approach + remembering details 21:05 Best referral sources + who he’s open to 24:16 Deep dive: Bob Dunham + how Thomas tests partners 26:46 Shoutout to Richard Ross (CPA) 27:10 Who he’s looking to meet: custom builders + property managers 28:02 How to connect with Thomas

    30 min
  6. Networking & Referrals: Jeremy Howe on Restoration and Trust

    FEB 9

    Networking & Referrals: Jeremy Howe on Restoration and Trust

    Jeremy Howe from Voda Cleaning & Restoration is only six months into launching in Northern Colorado, but he’s already building serious momentum through intentional networking, strong referral partnerships, and a “serve first” mindset—especially when clients are having one of the worst days of homeownership.  🔹 Why Jeremy treats his role like being “the mayor of the town”.  🔹 Building quality referral relationships (not just collecting business cards).  🔹 Real examples of collaboration with Red Rock Roofing + CleanSpot.  🔹 How Voda creates consistent business beyond emergency restoration calls.  🔹 Customer care in high-stress situations: trust, empathy, and process clarity.  🔹 Using newsletters + value-driven education to stay top-of-mind. Why You Should Listen If you’re building a service business (or referral network) in Northern Colorado, this episode is a practical look at how to create real referral partners, co-market with aligned businesses, and grow faster by focusing on relationship depth, not just networking volume. Businesses Jeremy Howe Recommends 🔹 Red Rock Roofing — values alignment (integrity, honesty), strong collaboration, and co-marketing that helps customers win 🔹 CleanSpot — complementary commercial cleaning partner; they handle janitorial/maid service while Voda supports deep cleaning + sanitization How to contact Jeremy Howe 🔹 Phone: 970-822-5300 🔹 Email: jeremy.howe@myvoda.com 🔹 Instagram: @vodafortcollinscheyenne

    22 min
  7. Networking, Referrals, and a Website That Converts with Matthew Regenie

    FEB 2

    Networking, Referrals, and a Website That Converts with Matthew Regenie

    Business networking works faster when your online presence matches your reputation. In this episode, Matthew Regenie (Prospect Future) breaks down practical digital marketing strategies that help Northern Colorado business owners turn networking and referrals into real revenue—without overcomplicating SEO or tech. In This Episode 🔹  Why proactive communication beats “set it and forget it” marketing 🔹 The #1 website mistake most business owners make (and how to fix it fast) 🔹 Simple website “human-first” improvements that build trust and drive conversions 🔹 Why video is still king heading into 2026—and how to get content without it becoming a chore 🔹 How to meet clients where they are (Zoom, text, email) and keep relationships strong Why You Should Listen 🔹 If your referrals Google you and your website doesn’t back up what people say, this episode will help you fix that disconnect 🔹 You’ll learn how to make your site clearer, easier to navigate, and more conversion-friendly—without marketing jargon 🔹 Matthew gives realistic advice for busy owners who want results, not a complicated “SEO checklist” 🔹 Strong takeaways for home service businesses that want more leads from their brand and online presence Businesses “Matthew Regenie” Recommends 🔹 CraftDigital.ai (Derek Brenner) — cutting-edge approach using dynamic fields and AI-driven content workflows 🔹 Level Up Concrete Repair — a strong example of a simple, clear one-page website that communicates services and drives action How to contact “Matthew Regenie” 🔹 Website: prospectfuture.com 🔹 Location: Fort Collins (in-person meetings available at their office / conference room) Timestamps 0:00 Time is your friend early on—build your brand when you’re new 0:18 Intro + Matthew’s work at Prospect Future 0:48 What Prospect Future does (digital marketing + strategic growth) 1:25 Why in-person meetings still matter (even in a Zoom world) 2:11 Proactive communication as a competitive advantage 3:04 Why Matthew built an office + creating a collaborative environment 4:04 Meeting clients where they are (text, email, Zoom) 5:00 How “optimized” most websites really are (spoiler: not very) 6:32 Why your website must match your networking reputation 7:29 The website is your “online salesperson” 8:39 The simple website test (3 questions) 9:34 Website examples + who’s doing it well 10:35 Intake process + building strategy through better questions 12:16 When to hire help vs DIY 13:24 Website tweaks that support networking 13:52 Social links, retargeting, and staying in front of the right people 15:36 About Us pages: why authenticity matters 16:50 How to get great content without making it a chore 17:44 What content is working in 2025–2026 (video) 18:51 How to source content locally or nationally 21:03 How networking has helped Matthew’s business 22:28 Who Matthew wants to connect with (home services) 23:12 Best way to reach him

    24 min
  8. Ask Boldly and Network Big with Dixie Daly of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce

    JAN 26

    Ask Boldly and Network Big with Dixie Daly of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce

    Business networking is easier—and more profitable—when you’re clear on what you want and confident enough to ask for it. In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Dixie Daly, Membership Director at the Loveland Chamber of Commerce and creator of the Tickled Pink Collection, to unpack how authentic relationships turn into real collaborations. Dixie shares how one “ask” became a pink beer, then snowballed into ciders, vodka, chocolate, candles, and purpose-driven partnerships—all powered by consistent networking, follow-up, and showing up where relationships happen. Why You Should Listen If you want better referrals, stronger partnerships, and a network that actually opens doors, Dixie gives a practical framework you can copy: how to ask, how to follow up, and how to create momentum without forcing outcomes. You’ll also hear how personal legacy, community involvement, and intentional relationship-building can turn networking into a long-term platform—not just another event on your calendar. Guest: Dixie Daly Dixie is the Membership Director at the Loveland Chamber of Commerce and the creator of the Tickled Pink Collection, a collaboration-driven brand built through networking and community partnerships. Contact Dixie / Links Mentioned 🔹 Loveland Chamber of Commerce: loveland.org 🔹Email: dixie@dixiedaly.com 🔹 Tickled Pink Collection: tickledpinkcollection.com Businesses Dixie Daly Recommends 🔹 Grimm Brothers Brewhouse — partnered with Dixie to bring the Tickled Pink beer to life through relationship-first collaboration. 🔹 Sweetheart Winery — sparked the Pink Dragonfly cider idea and helped turn a meaningful story into a product. 🔹 477 Distilling — collaborated with Dixie on a cotton-candy vodka concept born from a simple conversation and follow-through. 🔹 Adam’s Chocolate — created Dixie’s pink chocolate and even innovated additional product ideas using her vodka. 🔹 Hope Lives (Fort Collins) — supported through proceeds tied to Tap/Cro Hop & beer collaborations benefiting breast cancer initiatives. 🔹 Be The Gift — supports single moms with no-cost home repairs (Dixie serves on the board). 🔹 Colorado Women of Influence — helps women grow through networking and leadership. 🔹 CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) — supports scholarships and development for future real estate professionals. Timestamps 0:00 Intention, attention, no tension 0:52 Dixie’s roles: Chamber + Tickled Pink Collection 1:21 Why pink became a networking brand 2:28 How to ask for what you want 4:05 Why trust makes asking easier 7:02 The Pink Dragonfly cider story 9:02 The legacy Dixie wants to leave 9:37 How Dixie joined the Loveland Chamber 11:35 Board service and giving back 12:53 A simple networking system: 2 appointments/week 16:33 What “show up” really means 19:42 How the next “yes” gets easier 22:43 Partnerships that give back 23:19 The selfie strategy for staying visible

    26 min
See All (53)

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
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Connections That Matter
  • Show Website
    Connections That Matter