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. 2D AGO

    We've Villainized Friendliness in the Workplace

    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 Villainization of Friendliness: Why Building Connections at Work Is Crucial In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson discusses the growing trend of villainizing friendliness in the workplace. She argues that advice discouraging interpersonal interactions, like stopping by a coworker's desk, ultimately fosters a cold and isolated work environment. The episode addresses three main areas—treatment of extroverts, prioritizing efficiency over humanity, and advice discouraging initiation—emphasizing that those who initiate connections are vital for a positive work culture. Cassandra also provides actionable steps for leaders to build a more friendly and connected workplace. 00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Modern Workplace Advice 00:59 The Stigma Around Friendliness at Work 02:02 Podcast Introduction and National Friendship Month 03:20 Villainizing Extroverts in the Workplace 06:16 Efficiency vs. Humanity 08:43 Discouraging Initiation and Connection 14:03 Creating a Culture of Friendliness 16:25 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics 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!

    19 min

  2. JAN 29

    The Hidden Cost of "Efficient" Workplaces

    Why Efficiency Might Be Ruining Your Work Relationships The WSJ Article: https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/the-downside-to-using-ai-for-all-those-boring-tasks-at-work-dab9d3c8?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink In this episode of 'Creating Opportunities,' Cassandra Thompson explores how the drive for efficiency in the workplace has compromised human connections and undermined team effectiveness. She discusses the loss of informal, trust-building moments in the workplace due to remote work, Slack messages, and AI, and explains the importance of reintegrating 'inconvenient' interactions to foster better relationships and team cohesion. Thompson also highlights research from Google's Project Aristotle and the Academy of Management Journal to substantiate her points. Key timestamps include discussions on psychological safety (15:25), the benefits of small talk (22:30), and the impact of AI on burnout (35:00). Tune in to learn practical ways to rebuild connections and enhance your work life. 00:00 Introduction: The Cost of Efficiency 00:15 Welcome to Creating Opportunities 00:36 The Downside of Removing Friction 02:48 The Importance of Informal Moments 03:48 Reintroducing Inconvenience for Connection 10:32 The Role of AI in Workplace Burnout 13:53 Conclusion: Balancing Efficiency and Connection

    16 min

  3. JAN 22

    Social Skills Are Decaying—Here's How to Change That

    Get the Confidently Connect Workshop Here: 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 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 addresses the growing issue of social rustiness that many of us are experiencing. Cassandra details how the pandemic and modern efficiency culture have eroded our social muscles, making even simple interactions feel awkward. She provides practical advice on how to rebuild these skills through small, consistent efforts and mindset shifts. The episode emphasizes the importance of micro-conversations and human connections, offering actionable steps to help listeners regain their social confidence and improve their workplace interactions. 00:00 Introduction: The Social Skills Decline 00:55 Understanding Social Rustiness 03:10 The Impact of Efficiency Culture 04:22 Overcoming Social Anxiety 07:18 Mindset Shifts for Social Confidence 10:23 Practical Steps to Rebuild Social Skills 16:58 Conclusion and Recap 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!

    19 min

  4. JAN 15

    The 3 Reasons Why Work Feels Lonely (Whether in-office or remote)

    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 Work has started feeling more disconnected and isolated, and it’s not all due to remote work. Even in-office employees report feeling lonely. In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson dives into what's truly driving workplace loneliness, the shift towards efficiency over humanity, and how micro-interactions are becoming villainized. She offers actionable insights on how to bring back meaningful connections and participation at work. Discover how to create low-stakes moments of connection to drive psychological safety and overall better work performance. 00:00 Introduction: The Growing Disconnect at Work 00:52 The Real Causes of Workplace Loneliness 02:36 Shift 1 04:43 Shift 2 09:51 Shift 3 14:06 Actionable Steps to Reconnect 15:19 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!

    16 min

  5. JAN 8

    I Failed My Networking Goals Last Year, What I'm Changing for 2026

    Hello to Hello Again templates: https://www.cassthompson.com/offers/YLHVXAPP Atomic Habits: https://amzn.to/3Nbij6D Workbook: https://amzn.to/49e5JMw Diary of a Ceo with James Clear: https://youtu.be/rtufWBLOXgw?si=gWTb1YmHkEKbctuu 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 reflects on her failed networking goals from the previous year and shares valuable lessons learned. She highlights the pitfalls of tackling too many new goals at once and the importance of building manageable micro habits. Cassandra introduces concepts from James Clear's 'Atomic Habits' and BJ Fogg's 'Tiny Habits' to create a practical strategy for effective goal setting and networking. Tune in for actionable tips on making consistent progress with realistic and sustainable habits to enhance your professional connections. 00:00 Introduction: My Networking Failure 01:10 The Overwhelm of Too Many Goals 03:44 The Shift to Micro Habits 06:38 Implementing Effective Networking Strategies 08:59 Practical Tips for Setting Micro Habits 14:38 Conclusion and Encouragement 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!

    16 min

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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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