In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Brian Howe, internationally known DJ, music producer, entrepreneur, and longtime Northern Colorado connector.

Brian shares how he built and sold multiple businesses, including Howe Eventful, by focusing less on “networking” and more on creating real, organic relationships. From producing music behind the scenes for other artists and DJs to building event companies from the ground up, Brian’s story is packed with lessons for business owners who want to grow without forcing relationships, pitching too hard, or chasing every lead in the room.

Episode Highlights

🔹 Why Brian often avoids leading with what he does for a living.

🔹 How music production became the foundation of his career, with DJing as the visible byproduct.

🔹 The difference between delivering a song and delivering an experience.

🔹 Why business owners need to know their product, audience, and message.

🔹 How Brian built companies from $0 by identifying the right niche and the right relationships.

🔹 Why forced networking turns people off, and what to do instead.

🔹 The importance of surrounding yourself with people who know what you do not.

🔹 How Brian intentionally promoted his team so the business could thrive beyond him.

🔹 Why selling Howe Eventful felt like the right step at this stage of his life.

🔹 What Brian is looking forward to next: music production, selective events, and more personal freedom.

Why You Should Listen

🔹 Learn why real relationships outperform rehearsed elevator pitches.

🔹 Hear how Brian built multiple businesses through connection, trust, and reputation.

🔹 Discover how to approach networking in a way that feels more human and less transactional.

🔹 Get practical insight on building a business that is not completely dependent on you.

🔹 Be reminded that the strongest networks often come from showing up consistently and authentically.

Businesses Brian Recommends

Howe Eventful — Brian still fully endorses the company after selling it and highlights its strong reputation, service quality, and leadership under new owner John Ski.

Desk Chair Workspace — Brian credits Desk Chair as a major hub for meaningful Northern Colorado relationships and business connections.

The Rule Events / Jessie Rule — Brian mentions Jessie as a pivotal relationship and trusted event professional in the region.

Venu Hub / Dawn Williams — Brian credits Dawn with playing a major role in the growth of his previous company through authentic support, referrals, and belief in his team.

George Gintoli — Brian recommends George as someone he has known for many years through real estate and long-term relationship-building.

Blas Estrada — Brian highlights Blas as a trusted Northern Colorado mortgage professional and long-standing connection.

Timestamps

0:00 – Why Brian avoids leading with what he does.
0:43 – Brian’s background as a DJ, producer, and entrepreneur.
2:46 – What DJs hear versus what the crowd hears.
6:03 – Business lessons from building the right “playlist.”
7:55 – How networking helped Brian build multiple businesses.
8:32 – The right and wrong way to network.
10:28 – Key relationships that shaped Brian’s career.
12:08 – How to build real relationships without forcing business.
16:07 – Building a business versus owning a job.
18:00 – Why Brian chose to sell Howe Eventful.
20:00 – What retirement looks like for Brian now.
22:39 – Brian’s recommended businesses and trusted connections.