Fearless Connection: Building the First LGBTQ+ Social Network with Cat & Marianna

In this episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline Reeves sits down with Catherine Perez and Marianna Di Regolo, the queer married founders of FAMM. Together, they explore their professional journeys and their mission to build a thriving, inclusive queer economy that challenges traditional business networks.

Key themes include:

• The systemic barriers and funding challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals and entrepreneurs
• Their commitment to community-driven solutions and the creation of FAMM
• How intentional spending and mutual support can transform economic landscapes
• The launch of FAMM Connect - the first social network designed for LGBTQ+ professionals
• The vital importance of safety, visibility, and resilience in building inclusive platforms

00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless

00:38 Meet Catherine Perez & Marianna Di Regolo

03:14 Catherine & Marianna’s Professional Journeys

08:10 The Love Connection

15:09 Building FAMM: The Origin Story

19:32 The Power of Branding

23:40 Overcoming Barriers as LGBTQ+ Founders

30:25 The Power of Barter Systems

32:05 Networking vs. Genuine Connections

34:20 Navigating Visibility and Safety

39:00 Introducing FAMM Connect

42:36 Building a Community-Centered Platform

50:07 Future Vision and Impact

54:26 Event Announcements and Closing Remarks

Connect & Learn More

Here's how you can engage with Cat & Marianna’s work:

Website: heyfamm.com  

FAMM Connect: www.heyfamm.com/famm-connect 

Follow @hey_famm on Instagram, TikTok, and Threads

Connect with Fearless Foundry:

Fearless Foundry

Madeline Reeves

Finding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!

Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at [e-mail] if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry.

Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.