Ep. 196 Building Real Connections in a Digital World: Networking with Cesar Barros

About this episode

Cesar Barros discusses the importance of authentic networking in a digital age and shares practical advice for building genuine relationships.

This week on Mission CTRL , Ramon and Jorge sit down with Cesar Barros, Founder and CEO of the Connecticut Business Networking Association (CBNA), to explore the power of authentic, in-person networking in an increasingly AI-driven world. Cesar shares why, despite the rise of automation and platforms designed to “connect” people, nothing replaces the trust and chemistry of a real human interaction. From handshakes to meaningful conversations, he breaks down how genuine relationships, not algorithms, drive long-term business success and high-value opportunities. Drawing from his own journey as a self-proclaimed introvert turned community builder, Cesar offers practical advice for anyone intimidated by networking. He explains how asking thoughtful questions, showing genuine interest, and focusing on giving rather than getting can completely transform how people connect - and be remembered. The conversation also dives into Cesar’s entrepreneurial path, from launching his first clothing brand out of a duffel bag, to mastering sales through hundreds of daily cold calls, and ultimately building CBNA from the ground up in just over a year. What started as a personal need to create…

People in this episode

Hosts: Ramon, Jorge

Guest: Cesar Barros

Topics covered

• networking
• business success
• authentic connections
• entrepreneurship
• AI impact
• community building

Keywords

• networking
• business
• authenticity
• relationships
• entrepreneurship
• AI
• community

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Connecticut Business Networking Association

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