#63: If you’ve ever had to introduce yourself at a networking event and suddenly forgot everything you’ve ever done in your life, same. Networking is weird, small talk is painful, and yet… building real connections is kind of essential.
But this episode isn’t just about networking—it’s about owning your story, taking big risks, and embracing the wild twists that got you here. Like, for example, the time I worked at a strip club, got raided by SWAT, and then had to casually drop that into conversation at a networking event. Yeah.
In this episode, I’m talking about:
→ The real key to making connections that don’t feel forced
→ How I went from bartending at a strip club to running my own business (plot twist: those skills transferred)
→ The one question I ask at networking events that actually sparks a conversation
→ My SWAT raid story (because obviously)
→ Why it’s so important to acknowledge your progress instead of always chasing the next thing
Success isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about recognizing how far you’ve come. So if you need a reminder that your past (no matter how wild) is shaping your future in ways you don’t even realize yet, hit play on this one.
LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:
The standing desk I was raving about.
Want to come network with me? Learn about Texas Young Professionals.
LET'S STAY CONNECTED:
Is video more your thing? Watch this episode on YouTube.
Join 1k others in my weekly unhinged newsletter where I get honest about entrepreneurship.
Learn more about the Ironically Serious podcast at www.ironicallyserious.com
Submit a guest or topic for the podcast here.
Follow the podcast on Instagram @ironicallyseriouspod
Stay connected with Taylor @tay.hedden @chanelandlee
Submit your SOS to be featured on an episode here.
Leave Taylor a voicemail here.
Popular Podcasts
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com