Creating Opportunities

Cassandra Thompson
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the Creating Opportunities Podcast! The place where we help smart, ambitious professionals build authentic relationships for success in all areas of their lives. Why? Because people make work and life better.

  1. 12/18/2025

    Workplace Connection is Changing Forever | 2026 Predictions

    Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of 'Creating Opportunities,' host Cassandra Thompson examines the significant shifts in workplace connection in 2025 and offers insightful predictions for 2026. Key trends include recognizing loneliness as a workplace issue, the impact of remote and hybrid work on friendships, the importance of in-person connections, and the problems posed by digital communication. Cassandra also shares her hopes for a future where businesses prioritize human connection and social well-being. Join the conversation about how to foster a more connected and productive work environment. 00:00 Introduction: The Business of Loneliness 00:18 Year-End Review: Trends and Predictions 00:33 Welcome to Creating Opportunities 01:52 Trend 1 03:56 Trend 2 07:18 Trend 3 11:40 Trend 4 15:56 Trend 5 17:48 Predictions for 2026 24:28 Conclusion: Reflecting on 2025 SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: Cass@cassthompson.com https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

    27 min

  2. 12/11/2025

    5 Connection Habits That Changed My Life

    Get the Hello to Hello Again templates to automate your first messages: https://www.cassthompson.com/offers/YLHVXAPP/checkout Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Creating a standing lunch date: https://youtu.be/T8A7yRGlTmw Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 5 Connection Habits That Transformed My Relationship Building In this episode of 'Creating Opportunities,' Cassandra Thompson discusses the importance of intentional relationship building both personally and professionally. She shares five key habits that have improved her connections, such as maintaining regular phone calls, organizing social gatherings, and scheduling post-event follow-ups. These habits, ranging from simple to more involved, have helped her to foster strong and meaningful relationships. Cassandra also emphasizes the importance of putting people first on your calendar and using templated messages to streamline initial communications. 00:00 Reflecting on Relationships for the Year Ahead 01:15 Introduction to Creating Opportunities Podcast 01:36 The Importance of Intentional Relationship Building 01:57 Personal Connection Habits 03:54 Creating Gatherings to Strengthen Bonds 05:34 Professional Connection Habits 08:27 Using Templated Messages Effectively 10:22 Conclusion and Call to Action SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: Cass@cassthompson.com https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

    12 min

  3. 12/04/2025

    Rebuild Your Social Confidence in 2026 | Practical Steps to Connect Again

    In this episode of the Creating Opportunities Podcast, Cassandra Thompson shares her personal experience of losing social confidence after moving to a new state, facing a friendship breakup, and dealing with a family emergency. Cassandra outlines practical steps for regaining social fluency, treating it like a muscle that needs to be rebuilt. She recommends starting with familiar people, getting out of the house, joining activities, and even trying new facilitated friendship groups. The episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to improve their social skills whether they are new to a city, struggling with isolation, or finding it challenging to make new connections. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Story 01:02 Welcome to Creating Opportunities Podcast 01:23 Rebuilding Social Confidence: The Basics 03:19 Starting with Familiar Faces 06:46 Getting Out of the House 08:03 Joining Activities and Groups 14:16 Facilitated Friendship Groups 16:55 Mindset and Final Tips 19:03 Conclusion and Call to Action

    20 min

  4. 11/20/2025

    How to Use Holiday Parties to Your Advantage

    Get the Confidently Connect workshop to be confidently YOU walking into any networking event: https://www.cassthompson.com/connectworkshop Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson discusses the untapped networking potential of holiday parties, transforming them from casual gatherings into meaningful relationship-building opportunities. Learn the essential strategies for prepping before the event, navigating social interactions during the party, and the critical art of follow-up. Cassandra underscores the importance of intentionality and provides actionable tips to ensure you make the most of these festive occasions. Tune in to discover how simple adjustments in your approach can yield lasting professional connections. 00:00 Introduction: The Hidden Potential of Holiday Parties 01:22 Why Holiday Parties Are Networking Gold Mines 04:30 Preparing for the Party: Setting Yourself Up for Success 08:44 At the Party: Making the Most of Your Interactions 12:20 Following Up: Turning Connections into Opportunities 15:29 Conclusion: Embrace the Magic of Holiday Networking SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: Cass@cassthompson.com https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

    17 min

  5. 11/13/2025

    Avoid These 4 Networking Mistakes to Boost Your Career

    SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: Cass@cassthompson.com https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection The STOP Giving Value episode: https://youtu.be/6Zp7yJz5K-M LinkedIn Career Show: https://www.linkedin.com/events/successfulnetworkingstrategies-7037135168289050625/ Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson discusses common networking mistakes that professionals often make and how these errors can hinder career growth. The episode covers critical points such as the importance of connecting when you don’t need anything, approaching networking naturally, and maintaining relationships over time. Cassandra also provides practical tips on how to network effectively, keep relationships alive, and avoid actions that can come off as self-serving or premature. Finally, listeners are encouraged to view networking as a practice of genuine relationship building that can create mutual opportunities. 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Networking 01:58 Why Networking Matters 02:54 Common Networking Mistakes 06:28 Networking Styles: Find What Works for You 08:42 The Right Way to Ask for Help 12:10 Practical Networking Tips 16:40 Conclusion: Building Genuine Relationships SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

    18 min

  6. 11/06/2025

    Master Networking in Under 10 Minutes

    Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson delves into the essentials of mastering networking in under 10 minutes. Highlighting the importance of building genuine relationships rather than merely exchanging business cards, she explains how consistent follow-up is key to creating opportunities. Cassandra shares her 'relationship runway' strategy and underscores the need to prioritize people over tasks. To stand out, she recommends using old-school techniques like handwritten notes and in-person meetings. She also advises against keeping score in professional relationships, emphasizing the ebbs and flows of networking. Tune in for actionable tips to enhance your networking skills and create meaningful connections in your professional life. 00:00 Introduction to Mastering Networking 00:23 The True Purpose of Networking 00:52 The Importance of Follow-Up 02:21 Prioritizing People Over Productivity 03:09 Old School Techniques for Modern Networking 05:37 Don't Keep Score in Networking 07:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: Cass@cassthompson.com https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

    8 min

  7. 10/20/2025

    5 Questions to Ask When You Have Nothing in Common

    Get the Confidently Connect Workshop! https://www.cassthompson.com/connectworkshop Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson addresses the decline in social curiosity due to hyper-personalization. She shares practical ways to reignite curiosity and improve relationship-building by asking simple questions based on the five Ws and one H (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How). Through examples, such as discussing pickleball, she demonstrates how to engage in conversations about interests you may not share and underscores the importance of showing genuine interest in others. Cassandra also advises on overcoming the fear of looking uninformed when asking questions in professional settings and suggests daily practices for strengthening the social muscle of curiosity. 00:00 Introduction: The Decline of Curiosity 00:30 Welcome to Creating Opportunities 00:50 The Impact of Hyper-Personalization 03:16 Reviving the Social Muscle of Curiosity 03:44 Elementary School Fundamentals: The 5 Ws and 1 H 04:12 Practical Example: Getting Interested in Pickleball 08:32 Overcoming the Fear of Asking Questions 10:20 Practicing Curiosity in Daily Life 13:11 Conclusion and Next Steps 13:59 Outro: Stay Connected Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: Cass@cassthompson.com https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!

    15 min

  8. 10/13/2025

    The Most Overlooked Way to Build Professional Relationships

    SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: Cass@cassthompson.com https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker Maximizing Your Network: The Simple Power of 'See Something, Say Something' In this episode of the Creating Opportunities Podcast, Cassandra Thompson shares her favorite tactic for maintaining personal and professional relationships—'See Something, Say Something.' She debunks the myth that attending events and meeting new people is the hardest part of networking, emphasizing that following up and staying in touch is the real challenge. Through practical examples and personal anecdotes, Cassandra explains how this organic, low-effort method of reaching out whenever something reminds you of someone can significantly strengthen your connections. She also addresses common concerns such as feeling awkward or worrying about time gaps since last contact. This tactic is presented as an effective way to spark dormant relationships and stay top of mind with your network. Tune in for actionable advice and motivation to incorporate this simple yet impactful habit into your routine. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:32 The Hardest Part of Networking: Following Up 01:21 Introducing the 'See Something, Say Something' Method 03:50 Practical Examples and Personal Stories 04:35 Overcoming Common Concerns 15:38 Mistakes to Avoid and Final Tips 19:36 Conclusion and Call to Action Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

    22 min
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5
out of 5
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About

Welcome to the Creating Opportunities Podcast! The place where we help smart, ambitious professionals build authentic relationships for success in all areas of their lives. Why? Because people make work and life better.

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