Ever wondered how meaningful relationships can a play a pivotal role in shaping our personal and professional life? We joined Susan McPherson, serial connector, founder of McPherson Strategies and author of The Lost Art of Connecting, in an intriguing conversation about the power of authentic connections. Susan shares her journey of becoming a connector and provides valuable insights on how to build these relationships in today’s digital era.
We further delved into the impact of businesses in addressing societal and environmental concerns. Susan highlighted how the advent of social media has changed the way companies interact with stakeholders and the potential corporations have in leading crucial initiatives. We also discussed the complexities of scaling a business, with Susan revealing her experiences as an "accidental entrepreneur" and imparting wisdom on overcoming these challenges.
Finally, we touched upon maintaining a healthy balance in life. With Susan emphasizing the importance of reading and prioritizing health, she imparts a simple yet powerful challenge for us all - reach out to two people tomorrow. As you tune into this episode, you'll gain a fresh perspective on connections and acquire practical tools to foster them effectively. So, are you ready to transform your approach to building relationships?
Bios and show notes for Susan and Erika can be found below.
Available on Spotify, Apple and Google Podcast.
This episode is sponsored by Audible ,the leading provider of audiobooks, podcasts, guided wellness programs, theatrical performances and more. They have over 1000 titles for you to choose from, including our Guest’s book - The Lost Art of Connecting. Click on this link (http://www.audibletrial.com/vesther) and get a 30 Day Free Trial plus a free credit to use on Susan's book!
About our Guest Susan McPherson
Susan McPherson is a serial connector, angel investor, and corporate responsibility expert. She is the founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies, a communications consultancy focused on the intersection of brands and social impact. She is the author ofThe Lost Art of Connecting: The Gather, Ask, Do Method for Building Meaningful Relationships (McGraw-Hill). Susan is also a regular contributor to the Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Forbes. She has appeared on NPR, CNN, USA Today, The New Yorker, New York Magazine and was recently named to Forbes 50 Over 50 Impact. Susan also serves as Board Director and Advisor to several organizations including USA for UNHCR, The 19th News, the Lower Eastside Girls Club, Girls Who Code, She’s The First, and The OpEd Project.
About Host Erika Lucas
Erika is the Founder of StitchCrew, an organization connecting women and BIPOC entrepreneurs with the capital, resources and networks they need to launch and scale companies. Since its launch, StitchCrew has partnered with brands like the NBA, the Oklahoma City Thunder, Google, BASF, and others to fund and support more than 130 startups led by women and BIPOC founders. Erika also founded VEST, an organization investing in women-led companies and connecting women professionals with extended networks. In this capacity she also manages VEST Her Ventures, an early stage Venture Capital Firm investing in women-led companies building in the intersection of the Future of Work and Care Economy. She is also the host of the VEST Her Podcast, a show exploring the barriers women face in the workplace and sharing stories of women building power collectively. Prior to StitchCrew and VEST, Erika was a partner at a Private Equity Firm with investments in the U.S. and Europe. Before that she was the Global Director at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, where she led the Global Division in charge of Foreign Direct Investment and Trade. Erika was named by LinkedIn as Top Voice on Venture Capital. She is also on the Board of Directors of Arvest, a privately owned bank, the Diversion Hub, and the Oklahoma City County Health Department. Erika is also a member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association, Familia VC and LatinxVC.
Show Notes:
The Lost Art of Connecting, The Gather, Ask, Do Method for Building Meaningful Business Relationships, Susan's book.
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