The Power of Real Conversations with David Homan

What if networking wasn’t about schmoozing but about being seen? David Homan joins me to unlearn the myths of traditional networking and share how vulnerability, deep listening, and small group connection can foster truly meaningful relationships. As a master connector, classical composer, and co-author of Orchestrating Connection, David breaks down the silent skills that build trust, activate communities, and transform the way we gather.

David Homan is the founder and CEO of Orchestrated Connecting, a global community of connectors; Orchestrated Opportunities, an impact-focused advisory firm; and SOAR CONNECT, a start-up focused on the strength of authentic relationships. He hosts the Orchestrated Relationships podcast on developing relationship value, is an active classical composer, and a proud father of two. From middle-class beginnings as the son of a college professor and nonprofit-focused mother, he has built a network that reaches into the most private and powerful circles globally, all while honoring a code of purposeful community building.

Key Takeaways

• Small Groups Create Big Impact: Starting events with curated small groups breaks social barriers and sets the stage for authentic connection.
• Vulnerability Builds Real Relationships: Opening up—even subtly—invites empathy and depth that surface-level networking can't achieve.
• Help Without Keeping Score: Giving without expecting reciprocity strengthens your reputation and extends your reach.
• Design Moments That Resonate: Successful events don’t depend on cocktails or keynote speeches—they’re built on meaningful first impressions.
• Asking Is a Skill, Not a Weakness: Givers often struggle to ask for support—David’s Impact Ask framework helps mission-driven people share their needs with clarity.
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Additional Insights

• Most Networking Events Are Designed to Fail: Traditional formats emphasize aesthetics over connection—David redesigns them to foster immediate, meaningful dialogue.
• Shared Vulnerability Activates Group Trust: Structured conversations with depth-based prompts unlock faster bonding and community-building.
• Music as a Metaphor for Human Connection: David draws from his training as a classical composer to illustrate how relationships, like instruments, must resonate and harmonize.
• Clarity Makes Asking Easier: The “Impact Ask” framework simplifies how to articulate passion, purpose, and the kind of help you need.
• Your Reputation Travels Faster Than You Do: David’s work shows that investing in authentic relationships amplifies your presence—even when you're not in the room.
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Episode Highlights

00:00 – Episode Recap

David Homan reveals how he had to unlearn everything he thought he knew about networking—discovering instead that vulnerability, deep listening, and structured intimacy were the keys to building purposeful community.

01:50 – Guest Introduction: David Homan

Barry introduces David Homan, master connector, startup founder, and co-author of Orchestrating Connection, whose work helps leaders create impact-driven relationships through authentic connection.

02:52 – Why Most Events Miss the Mark

David shares why traditional networking events feel awkward—and how his approach to curated small groups flips the script to create meaningful experiences.

04:49 – Start Small, Go Deep

Barry reflects on the power of small group interactions and how vulnerability accelerates meaningful connections.

08:01 – Sharing Real, Not Polished

David explains the importance