In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Sondra Harper—coach, speaker, and now two-time published author—to talk about mastering your pitch, owning your value, and connecting with clients through powerful communication.

Sondra shares how the right pitch can instantly build rapport and why so many business owners struggle to articulate their value. We unpack how sales is really about solving problems, not pushing services, and how coaching can help entrepreneurs realign their communication with the outcomes they actually want.

We also dive into her journey as an author, the support system that helped her finish her latest book, and the difference between giving advice and coaching someone through meaningful change.

🎧 Why You Should Listen:
If you've ever stumbled through explaining what you do—or felt like your message isn't landing—this episode will help you clarify your pitch, boost your confidence, and improve how you connect with the people you're meant to serve. Whether you're in trades, wellness, or coaching, this is a masterclass in clear, compelling communication.

✅ Professionals Sondra Recommends:

• Alicia Beeson / XSeed Design – collaborator and creative partner during her book-writing journey
• Alex Tanner – former client and high-performing landscaper (and fellow podcast guest!)
• Mary Lucivi – her long-time mentor and leadership coach
• Perry Belcher – marketing strategist and online product coach

🤝 Connections Sondra Is Looking For:

• Trades professionals (roofers, landscapers, builders) who are great at what they do but struggle to close sales
• Wellness providers (acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists) who need help articulating their value
• Entrepreneurs feeling stuck in their communication or sales process
• Business owners curious about coaching but unsure where to start

📘 Keep an eye out for Sondra’s newest book (pre-launch now, coming to Amazon soon!)
📧 Connect with Sondra or book a discovery call: sondraharper.com

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Check out our upcoming events here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Paul Foote, Project Manager at Roof Source, to talk about building a roofing business rooted in integrity, relationships, and education—not door knocking.

Paul shares how he stands out in a competitive industry by educating homeowners, focusing on long-term solutions like proper ventilation, and leading with value through consistent community involvement. His networking mindset and faith-forward approach have helped him become a true connector in Northern Colorado.

Why You Should Listen: Learn how to build a referral-based service business by educating clients, showing up consistently, and focusing on relationships over high-pressure sales—especially in competitive industries like roofing.

✅ Businesses Paul Recommends:

• Melissa Foote / Step by Step Photo Organizing – for preserving memories and managing digital clutter
• Georgia Boys BBQ – a local favorite and a proud family connection
• Morgan Parker / State Farm Agent – trusted insurance partner
• Alicia Beeson / XSeed Design – interior designer known for creative and client-focused work

🤝 Connections Paul Is Looking For:

• Real Estate Agents & Property Managers – who need reliable, client-first roofing partners
• Insurance Agents – looking for roofers who prioritize education and ethics
• HOA Board Members – seeking a proactive, professional roofing relationship
• Homeowners in Barefoot Lakes & beyond – who want expert inspections without pressure

📞 Call Paul: 303-827-1139📧 Email: ⁠paul@coloradoroofsource.com⁠🌐 Learn more: ⁠coloradoroofsource.com⁠

🎉 Want to come network with us? Check out our upcoming events here:👉 ⁠https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this special episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with the guy usually behind the mic—Brian Lam of Lam Creative Solutions—the mastermind producer helping Northern Colorado business owners build their brand through podcasts, video, and social content.

Brian shares how he helps clients overcome perfectionism, take action, and grow their presence with content that connects. We talk about what it takes to launch a podcast, how content creates credibility, and why starting imperfectly is better than not starting at all.

✅ Businesses Brian Recommends:

• Chris Parks – personal injury attorney in Boulder and long-time video content client
• Flatirons Community Church – where Brian volunteers and built lasting relationships
• Studio partners who provide high-end podcast production space (shoutout to Scott Severin)

🤝 Connections Brian Is Looking For:

• Professional service providers (attorneys, coaches, consultants, etc.) who are their brand
• Business owners who understand the value of social media but don’t have time to do it themselves
• People new to podcasting or video marketing looking for practical guidance or full-service production

📧 Contact Brian: brian@lamcreativesolutions.com
📞 Call/Text: 269-216-1474
🌐 Learn more: lamcreativesolutions.com

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Join us at an upcoming event:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, I welcome Nima Mousavizadeh, one of Northern Colorado’s most trusted voices in small business support and a relationship-driven leader at Journey Payroll & HR.

Nima shares why “just helping people” is more than a networking strategy—it’s his entire approach to life and business. We discuss how Journey's homegrown roots and people-first service model help over 2,300 businesses nationwide while staying deeply connected to the Northern Colorado community.

He also shares practical insights on how payroll can actually help small businesses save money, the myths he regularly busts about his industry, and how to build a referral network through consistency, value, and genuine service.

🤝 Connections Nima Is Looking For:

• Business Consultants & Coaches – especially those working with growing teams
• Financial Advisors & Retirement Planners – where payroll and planning intersect
• Workman's Comp Providers & Benefits Professionals – for shared client strategy
• Elite Professionals in any field focused on small business consulting and support

📞 Contact Nima: 720-261-9499
📧 Email: nimam@journeypayroll.com
🌐 Learn more: journeypayroll.com

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Check out our upcoming events here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Chelsea Zimmerman, founder of Back Pocket Assistants, to explore how strategic support can help business owners grow without burning out.

Chelsea talks about the power of delegation, the role of AI in her systems, and how she’s built a team to serve overwhelmed entrepreneurs who are ready to scale with intention.

🤝 Connections Chelsea Is Looking For:

• Time-strapped entrepreneurs who need VA or fractional team support
• Marketing strategists open to collaboration
• Business coaches or consultants looking to extend client implementation support

📧 Contact Chelsea: chelsea@backpocketassistants.com
🌐 Learn more: backpocketassistants.com

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Join an upcoming event:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Matt Seiler, General Manager of Metric Motors in Loveland, CO—a trusted, family-run shop serving the community for over 40 years.

Matt shares how Metric Motors has built its reputation on honesty, education, and long-term relationships, not gimmicks or pressure. We talk about what it means to lead a legacy business, build a values-driven team, and stay connected in a fast-moving industry.

✅ Businesses Matt Recommends:

• Right Ride – a trusted used car dealer he confidently refers clients to

🤝 Connections Matt Is Looking For:

• Fleet Service Clients – business owners who need consistent, dependable vehicle maintenance
• Referral-Focused Insurance Agents – to better serve shared customers after accidents or claims
• Customer-Centric Professionals – in any industry who share the “relationship over transaction” mindset

📞 Call Metric Motors: 970-667-2044
🌐 Learn more: metricmotorsloveland.com

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Join us at an upcoming event:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Ann Coughlan, founder of Peppy’s Pets, to talk about turning a love for animals into a trusted in-home pet care business.

Ann shares how she built a company based on consistency, compassion, and client trust—and how she’s scaling through community referrals, local collaboration, and her vision for Peppy’s Pet Shop.

✅ Businesses Ann Recommends:

• Crossroads Animal Hospital – for veterinary care in Windsor
• Tails Animal Chiropractic – animal chiropractic and wellness
• CSU Small Animal Rehab – for specialized recovery support

🤝 Connections Ann Is Looking For:

• Vets and Groomers open to cross-referrals
• Pet supply vendors for her upcoming retail location
• Local home service professionals for shared clients and collaborations

📧 Contact Ann: woof@peppyspets.com
📞 Call: 720-232-2068
🌐 Website: peppyspets.com

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Join an upcoming event:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Cliff Cullen, COO of the Longmont Humane Society, to explore how authentic relationship-building powers both business and community impact.

Cliff shares how the organization cares for over 4,000 animals each year, maintains a 98% save rate (far above national averages), and actively collaborates with local businesses and nonprofits. We discuss how he's grown community sponsorships, mobilized over 400 volunteers, and leveraged his networking skills to keep the mission thriving through community support and collaboration.

🛠 Cliff also highlights standout community partners:

• Valley Subaru – event sponsor & custom brewery experience partner
• Quarters Bar + Arcade – creative kennel sponsor
• Althaus Law – estate planning referrals
• Camp Bow Wow – short-term dog care partner
• Colorado Pet Pantry – food assistance for struggling pet owners
• OUR Center – support for families in transition

📧 Want to partner, sponsor, or take a tour?
Contact Cliff: cullen@longmonthumane.org
📱 Call/text: 720-323-5615
🌐 Learn more: longmonthumane.org

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Check out our upcoming events here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909