EP525: David Homan - Why Networking Feels Broken & What Actually Works - Part 1

In this first part of a two-part episode, Michael Palmer welcomes David Homan, community building strategist and author of 'Orchestrating Connection,' to dismantle the myth that networking is only accessible to those born with 'relationship privilege.' David shares his personal journey—from helping his mother with nonprofit bookkeeping as a child to becoming a composer and executive director in New York City—revealing how intentional relationship-building, vulnerability, and trust transformed his career. He challenges the transactional nature of traditional networking, arguing that true connection stems from curiosity, diversity, generosity, and gratitude. Rather than chasing opportunities, David advocates for building 'purposeful communities' where people support one another without immediate expectation of return. He emphasizes that meaningful connections are built through shared experiences, such as parenting struggles during daylight savings time, and that digital platforms like LinkedIn often distract from authentic human interaction. The episode ends with a powerful call to action: start by thanking those who helped you, honoring the 'chain of connections' that shaped your journey, and using that as a foundation to grow a resilient, trust-based network. Key takeaways include: 1) Networking isn’t about access—it’s about intentionality and vulnerability; 2) Trust is the ultimate currency in business and life; 3) Start small by thanking people who helped you, which builds gratitude and strengthens community; 4) Diverse networks are more strategic than homogeneous ones; 5) Real connection happens when you listen first and ask second; 6) Digital tools are useful but can’t replace human empathy; 7) Purposeful communities outlast transactional networks; 8) The best opportunities come not from asking, but from being someone others want to advocate for.