{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/62e074adb038a40013e0d7b6/6876608401becb6b3196d161?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"The Real Reason You’re Not Getting Referrals... And How to Fix It Fast with Devin Sizemore","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/62e074adb038a40013e0d7b6/1752587694473-67d3ddb1-791e-4867-b3df-49c96d67ecbe.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>&nbsp;You’ve been told networking is key to business growth—but if you're still relying on business cards and “just checking in” emails, you're doing it wrong.</p><p>In this episode, I sit down with <strong>Devin Sizemore</strong>, business strategist and creator of the Connection Expansion System, to break down:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Why your current network isn’t sending you leads</li><li>How to flip the script and actually enjoy networking</li><li>A five-step meeting framework that turns strangers into superfans</li><li>And the one mindset shift that will multiply your referrals (without selling)</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Whether you're new to networking or a seasoned relationship-builder, this episode will help you transform your connections into consistent, qualified opportunities.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul><li>Most referral advice is customer-focused and outdated. Connection-focused networking wins in 2025.</li><li>Asking for “ideal clients” adds friction. Instead, ask to be connected to strategic partners.</li><li>Follow-up is everything—use Devin’s template to instantly stand out and add value.</li><li>Networking meetings aren't for selling. They're for <em>listening, learning,</em> and <em>leveraging.</em></li><li>Real ROI in networking comes from consistency and controlling the flow of the conversation.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00 – Why traditional networking isn’t working</p><p>02:00 – Meet Devin Sizemore &amp; his connection-first mission</p><p>05:25 – The problem with referral marketing as you know it</p><p>08:00 – The wrong way (and right way) to follow up</p><p>12:00 – How to run a powerful 1:1 connection meeting</p><p>17:27 – Devin’s 4 go-to questions at every networking event</p><p>23:00 – How to know if your events are actually working</p><p>26:00 – Devin’s challenge: One message. One connection. One opportunity.</p><p><br></p><p>Like what you heard today? Share this episode with someone who's networking like it’s still 2015. And don’t forget to subscribe for more real-talk marketing conversations that drive real results. For Devin’s book + resources, head to<a href=\"https://www.connectionexpansion.com\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"> ConnectionExpansion.com</a>.</p><p><br></p><p>Visit Devin Sizemore online:</p><p>Website:<a href=\"https://devinsizemore.com/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">https://devinsizemore.com/</a></p><p>LinkedIn: <a href=\"https://www.linkedin.com/in/dpsizemore/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">https://www.linkedin.com/in/dpsizemore/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social &amp; Podcasting:</p><p>Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/</p><p>Website: https://yournextstep.agency/</p><p>Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley</p><p>YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab</p><p><br></p><p>#ReferralMarketing #NetworkingTips #ConnectionStrategy #MarketingMindset #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing #BusinessGrowth</p>","author_name":"Katie Brinkley"}