I’ve always believed that the most successful people—whether founders, investors, or community leaders—aren’t the ones who know the most or have the most. They’re the ones who give first. They show up, offer help, make introductions, and invest in others long before expecting anything in return. And over time, the universe has away of rewarding that generosity. How do I know this? I’ve seen it happen again and again.
Kansas City’s entrepreneurial ecosystem thrives because of this mindset. When you connect, share knowledge, and support others without asking, What’s in it for me? something incredible happens—you become a magnet for opportunity.
The strongest networks aren’t built by those with the best resumes or the biggest bank accounts. They’re built by those who consistently add value—by introducing a founder to an investor, offering advice, or opening doors for others. They show up with a mindset to give, not to gain.
Give First, Get Later
Too often, people approach networking with a transactional mindset: What can this person do for me? But real magic happens when you flip that question and ask: How can I help?
When you become known as someone who solves problems, makes meaningful connections, and genuinely wants others to succeed, people remember you. And when opportunity knocks—a business deal, a job, a game-changing intro—you’re top of mind. Why? Because people do business with those they like and trust.
Success isn’t just about personal performance. It’s about the impact you create for others. If you want to build a lasting, powerful network, don’t focus on extracting value—focus on providing it.
TRUST THE UNIVERSE
The truth is generosity always comes full circle. Maybe not right away, and perhaps not how you expect—but the energy you put into helping others inevitably finds its way back to you. The people who rise aren’t those who hoard knowledge or guard contacts. They’re the ones who give freely and trust that the return will come in unexpected ways.
If I’ve learned anything, it’s this: when you make yourself invaluable to others, opportunities become endless.
So, here’s my challenge: be the person who gives first. Build bridges. Make introductions. Offer help without hesitation. Because success isn’t just about climbing your own ladder—it’s about helping others climb theirs, too.
