What’s up ya’ll?!? Last week was pretty damn productive and interesting. I finally kicked off our NetWORKED series and secured 2 interviews, we pivoted to a summit, and we finally got a first look at how leaving the process of networking in the hands of AI can go wrong.

Now, most of you probably don’t know what’s going on behind the scenes with BLKBOOK or what I’m trying to build and that’s totally intentional. What I will say, is that last weeks drama put us in a very unique position that is pushing me to go harder than ever before on fundraising.

But enough Monday motivation vomit from me, I’ll let you get back to your unpaid programming…

Here’s whats poppin:

• BLKBOOK’s New Game Plan 👀

• 13 other net-fests you might be interested in 🤝

• Apply to be an alpha tester! 🐺

• Some interesting news headlines 🗞

• The most controversial networking AI story yet 🤖

• A little photo op of me from Friday night 📸

• And of course, how I can help you grow 🚀

🚨 Change of Plans! 🚨

The bad news - I decided to cancel the Startup 2 Startup event. The good news - we’re building something WAY better!

Originally, I planned on organizing a series of hyper-targeted matchmaking events until we launch BLKBOOK. However, a lot things transpired last week which got me thinking… Instead of hosting these events individually, why not just do them all at once and call it a summit?!? 🚀

So, that’s what we’re doing but I need your help! In order for The Startup Speed Networking Summit to be super valuable and filled with high quality opportunities, we need to get the right people in the room. So, I’m looking for 20-30 incredible influencers and community organizers to partner with to make it an unforgettable experience.

If you’re an engaged community leader with at least 50k+ or more followers or members, have a strong presence in the startup ecosystem, and a passion for networking and innovation, we want to hear from you! As a partner, you’ll benefit from complimentary tickets, affiliate revenue, co-branding opportunities and exclusive discounts to share with your audience.

If you or someone you know fits this description, reach out to me directly at [email protected] or send me a DM on LinkedIn!

It’s Alpha Time Baby!!! 🐺

The moment we’ve all been waiting for is here—our day-one’s finally get to experience the raw, unfiltered version of BLKBOOK! It’s buggy, it’s imperfect, and that’s exactly why we need YOU. We’re looking for alpha testers who are ready to dive in, embrace the rough edges, and provide honest, actionable feedback. Yes, my friends, it’s testing time—and we can’t do it without your help! Apply now. 👇

Don’t wanna be THAT involved but want to give it a shot when we launch our public beta? Get on the waitlist here.

True Story 📖

Last week in my Fresh Finds section, I listed a new networking tool I was experimenting with called Boardy. Later that day, I came upon a post of someone else who tried it and let’s just say her experience was well…controversial. I posted about it, heard back from the CEO then Forbes wrote about it. Watch the full story below👇

@chelseymoter

This is the perfect example of why the creator of an AI tool matters and why AI cannot fully replace the traditional process of networking... See more

Share your Networking Success Story! 🌟

Did someone in your network hook you up with your dream job, land you that big client, or make the intro that changed everything? We want the juicy details!

We’re on the hunt for inspiring, funny, or downright surprising stories about how networking opened doors and catapulted you to success. Think of it as your chance to brag—humbly, of course. 😉

What’s in it for you?
✔️ Showcase your story to a professional audience.
✔️ Build your personal brand and credibility.
✔️ Inspire others to invest in their networking efforts.
✔️ Free BLKBOOK event ticket.

How to Apply?
• Share a brief overview of your story.
• Include how your network played a key role.
• Submit your story here.

We’ll feature select stories in our newsletter and upcoming events. This is your chance to highlight the connections that made a difference and inspire others to start building their own.

Don’t be shy—your story could inspire someone else to make their next big move (and let’s be honest, we all love a good success story). 🚀