The Bubbles Effect: Wednesday Power Hour with Stefan Thomas

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of networking as a conversation starter rather than a sales pitch, featuring insights from expert Stefan Thomas.

What if networking isn’t about selling… but simply starting a conversation? In this week’s Power Hour, I’m joined by networking expert and author Stefan Thomas, and this conversation is such a refreshing reframe on something so many business owners overthink. 😫 From working in a shoe shop in the 80s to writing Business Networking for Dummies , Stefan shares how the most powerful business opportunities don’t come from pitching… they come from simple, human conversations. ❤️ We talk about why networking feels uncomfortable, what people get wrong, and how to approach it in a way that actually builds trust (and leads to real opportunities). If you’ve ever walked into a networking event thinking “what do I even say?” this episode is for you. ✨ This Week’s Focus: Networking doesn’t need to feel forced or salesy. It’s simply the start of a conversation. Why the word “networking” can instantly make us uncomfortable The real purpose of your 60-second introduction Why trying to sell too fast actually pushes people away How trust is built over time (not instantly) The “half-life of enthusiasm” and why timing matters in follow-up How modern tools (like social + automation) support…

People in this episode

Host: Nicole Bernard

Guest: Stefan Thomas

Topics covered

• networking
• business conversations
• trust building
• human connection
• sales approach

Keywords

• networking
• business opportunities
• human conversations
• trust
• 60-second introduction

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Business Networking for Dummies

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• The Bubbles Effect: Wednesday Power Hour with Jen Rulon · March 25, 2026 · 30 min
• The Bubbles Effect: Marketing + Mindset Monday 3/23 · March 23, 2026 · 5 min
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