Underline This Podcast

Building Real Relationships That Matter

Becoming a networking machine means creating authentic relationships at every opportunity—online, in person, and in the in-between moments.

Each of us builds our own community and network. Think of it like constructing a structure: every brick represents a relationship. Some bricks are inherited, like family. Others are ones we choose and cultivate. 

We decide who we attract, who we associate with, and who we let into our circle.

The quality of our network is like planting relationship seeds. If we put in fake effort, we get superficial results. But if we’re genuine, if we’re organic in how we build connections, we’ll grow something real—something strong and lasting.

So how do we actually grow a powerful network?

I can sum it up in one word:

EFFORT. 🏋️‍♀️

It’s effort—applied consistently across three key principles of becoming a networking machine:

• Building an online presence 💻
  
• Talking to strangers 🗣️
  
• Getting involved 🏃‍♂️
  

1. Build an Online Presence

Start by building your online presence—responsibly. Be strategic and thoughtful about what you post, what you follow, and how much time you spend on your device. Remember, technology is a great servant but a terrible master.

 Social media, Goodreads, LinkedIn… these are modern-day calling cards. They give others a peek into your interests, your values, and your life. And just as importantly, they give you a window into theirs. 🪟

Even if you’re not big on social media, you can still use these tools to uplift others, celebrate wins, and start conversations.

Ever run into someone you haven’t seen in a while, but you remember their recent vacation post? That moment creates the perfect icebreaker. It gives you a way to connect without awkward small talk.

2. Talk to Strangers

Be the first to speak up. That act alone shows confidence and gives you “home court advantage”—you’re setting the tone.

Become friends with the cashier at Publix (I’m looking at you, Floridians). Talk to people on the bus. While traveling, my wife and I sat next to a Chilean couple. I said hello, but she did most of the talking—Spanish is her strength, not mine. But from that one hello, we ended up having dinner with them twice. Now, we’ve got new friends in another country.

All because we made the first move. ♟️

3. Get Involved

Get involved in something—anything.

Napoleon Hill, in Think and Grow Rich, talks about mastermind groups. He defines them as:

“Two or more people actively engaged in the pursuit of a definite purpose with a positive mental attitude, constitute an unbeatable force.”

Years ago, I wanted to improve my personal finances. So I started a group iMessage chat with people I knew who were doing well. We’d share financial strategies, smart investments… and yes, occasionally joke about horses to bet on in races that had been rigged.

(Kidding about the horses.) 🐎

The point is: opportunities to network are everywhere—mastermind groups, running clubs, online forums. When you get involved, you expand your reach, grow your knowledge, and connect with like-minded people.

Final Thoughts

Your network is your net worth.

So here’s my call to action: let’s all become networking machines by

• Building an online presence
  
• Talking to strangers
  
• Getting involved
  

Do that, and you’ll open doors. You’ll make new friends, find mentors, and build true community.

Want wisdom that sticks? Follow this blog and the Underline This Podcast on YouTube and social media for short, impactful articles and videos that get straight to the point. Plus, explore curated tools, books, and resources on the Recommendations page—everything that’s brought real value to me, shared so it can do the same for you.