Hey Luxe League!

From age 3, I was that kid with endless questions and zero filter about asking them to anyone breathing. Early lesson learned: people absolutely love talking about themselves but not listening to a 3 year old ramble. Plot twist? That ability to engage with strangers became my superpower that I learned (and still learning) to wield effectively.

Let's talk about something that completely shifted my trajectory: the art of intentional connection.

Forget desperate networking and surface-level small talk. This isn't about hoarding business cards and digital contacts—it's about curating a power circle that actually moves the needle.

I used to think networking meant awkward elevator pitches and stale conference room conversations. Completely wrong.

Here's what I discovered: Every connection should be a calculated move toward mutual elevation. We're building bonds that spark opportunities, share resources, and fuel each other's empires. Stop burning energy on weak ties that lead nowhere and start investing in relationships that deliver real ROI—in knowledge, access, and yes, cold hard cash.

This isn't just about who's in your contacts. It's about who you connect with on that deeper frequency. The ones who get your ambition, share your hunger, and understand we're all playing to win. When your network is bulletproof, your rise becomes inevitable.

The game-changer moment? When I flipped from "What can I extract?" to "What value can I bring?" Everything shifted. Opportunities started flowing like water. Doors didn't just open—they swung wide. My circle transformed from a contact list into my most valuable asset.

Your relationships are prime real estate in the success game. Time to start building your empire, one strategic connection at a time.

Ready to turn your network into your net worth? Keep reading and get your network to subscribe for more!

Keep connecting, Dana 💅🏾

This Week's Power Mantra: "I attract aligned connections who elevate my vision and amplify my impact." 💎

The Connection Revolution: From Transactional to Transformational. Here's what I've learned in my years building authentic professional relationships: the most powerful networkers aren't the loudest in the room—they're the most grounded. When you show up rooted in your own worth and clear on your values, you naturally attract the right people. It's magnetic, not manipulative.

Old Networking Mindset:

 Rich Bitch Networking Mindset:

 The Power of Intentional Follow-Up

Here's what I've observed separates the pros from the pretenders: how you follow up after making a connection. Most people exchange business cards (or LinkedIn info) and then... crickets. But those who truly understand relationship building? We turn every meaningful conversation into a lasting connection.

Speaking of meaningful connections—if this resonates with how you approach professional relationships and you're ready to connect with someone who gets the intersection of authentic networking and business growth, I'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn. I regularly share insights on building genuine professional relationships that actually move the needle in healthcare and beyond.

Here's exactly how you can connect with me—feel free to copy and paste this message:

"Hi Ebony! I just read your newsletter on networking mindset shifts and loved your approach to building authentic, value-first relationships. I'd love to connect and continue learning from your insights on healthcare leadership and genuine professional networking. Looking forward to connecting!"

This Week's Power Move: The Value-First Approach

Before your next networking opportunity, I encourage you to ground yourself with these questions:

The Follow-Up That Actually Follows Through

Consider elevating your follow-up game with handwritten notes using Be Rooted Co.'s inclusive stationery. There's something so powerful about taking the time to write a personal note that reflects both your values and theirs. When you choose stationery that celebrates diversity and inclusion, you're making a statement about the kind of connections you want to build—authentic, values-aligned, and genuinely supportive of everyone's success.

In a world of generic LinkedIn messages, a thoughtful handwritten note stands out like a diamond in a pile of rocks. And when you do connect with me on LinkedIn, know that I practice what I preach—every connection request I send comes with genuine intention to add value to your journey.

Action Step: Send one "no agenda" message to someone in your network this week. Share an article that made you think of them, make an introduction between two people who should know each other, or simply celebrate their recent win with genuine enthusiasm.

Watch how this shifts the energy around you. When you lead with generosity instead of need, the universe has a funny way of bringing exactly the right opportunities to your door.

Let's get real about the ROI of relationships:

The Numbers Don't Lie:

Your Relationship Portfolio Strategy:

Tier 1: Inner Circle (5-10 people)

Tier 2: Professional Network (20-50 people)

Tier 3: Broader Community (100+ people)

This Week's Money Move: Audit your relationship portfolio. Who's missing? Where are the gaps? Create a simple spreadsheet with three columns: Name, Last Contact, Next Action.

Rich Bitch Reality Check: Stop thinking networking is "using people." Strategic relationship building is about creating mutual value and lifting each other up. That's not using—that's winning together.

Because your network should match your net worth goals:

Professional Networks:

Industry-Specific:

Luxe Investment-Worthy:

Budget-Friendly Boss Moves: