If you are new here, than welcome!
I took a conscious summer pause from sharing about the Build Your Influence Ecosystem—and it was exactly what I needed.
On a personal note, I moved to a new state: New Mexico. I’m now living in Santa Fe, getting used to my new environment and building connections in the local community. At the same time, I was inspired to start writing my solo book, Sell Your Brilliance and giving this sacred creative process the focus it deserved. You can follow my book journey here.
Now I’m excited to return with weekly inspiration, that can help you navigate the world of influence, visibility, and impact. Whether it’s tools or concepts I discover, recommendations from others, or personal observations from my own journey, you’ll find them here.
If you missed the Summit in June, you can upgrade to access the full content, plus subscriber only articles moving forward. Check out all the themes here: https://www.multidleaders.org/public-agenda
This week, I’m shining a spotlight on a book that grabbed my attention and sharing some of my own takeaways on cultivating and managing a network. That book is Rich Relationships: How to Create a Million Dollar Network for Your Business by Selina Soo. Shout out to Shannon Hernandez for recommending it to me.
Some of the themes in this book tie directly into the pillars of the Nodes of an Influence Ecosystem. I hope it sparks inspiration for all of us to think bigger and take more intentional risks in building relationships that matter.
The Nodes of an Influence Ecosystem
In today’s digital landscape, true influence isn’t built on a single channel or isolated strategy. It’s cultivated through an interconnected, mutually supportive ecosystem – a living, breathing netwo…
Take Initiative to Find Rich Relationships
“When you take initiative, on a spiritual level you are signaling to the Universe - Okay, Im serious about this goal. I’ll make the first move. Let’s go!” (p. 303).
Set yourself the goal of scheduling intentional conversations with mentors, peers, or potential collaborators each week. This could mean reaching out directly or attending gatherings and mastermind groups that align with your values.
When evaluating whether someone is aligned, consider this lens:
Are you inspired by their growth (character)?
Do they know something you’d love to learn (knowledge)?
Have they achieved a goal you aspire to (accomplishment)?
Is there potential for collaboration (synergy)?
Has their content already enriched your life (richness)?
And just as important: ask yourself, What’s a goal they’re working on that I could help them achieve faster? How can I add value to their life and be a giver in their network?
Selina Soo goes into detail on the do’s and don’ts of reaching out, but my favorite takeaway is her concept of:
An Act of Breathtaking Generosity
Do a generous deed that connects directly to their dreams or priorities, and make sure it has a “wow” factor—with no strings attached.
She shares her example of hand-delivering Danielle LaPorte’s book to Oprah. While not all of us will have the chance to do something at that level, the principle still applies: there is always a creative, authentic way to add value.
The Litmus Test for New Collaborator Relationships
I’ve joined calls with people who, at first, seemed like ideal collaborators—their energy and expertise appeared to complement my work. But as the conversation unfolded, they pivoted into pitching their services or stepping into an unsolicited mentor role.
That’s why clarifying intentions at the start of a call is invaluable. Instead of saying, “let’s get to know each other,” share what you hope to achieve. If they steer the discussion elsewhere despite your clarity, that’s a strong signal they may not be the right fit.
Interestingly, some of my most generous collaborators on Substack have also had the largest audiences. While I never choose collaborators based on reach, I’ve noticed that those with larger platforms often intuitively understand the power of giving—knowing that generosity drives engagement and referrals.
By contrast, some smaller creators struggle with reciprocity, often because they haven’t yet built collaborative habits.
The Litmus Test for New Peer Relationships
Over the years, I’ve met peers whose expertise lies outside my immediate collaborations, but who I intentionally keep close—not because we directly co-create, but because I deeply admire their work, enjoy their energy, and want to champion them.
This group is highly curated. I choose peers who are building reciprocal, thriving networks themselves. Together, we amplify one another’s wins and share opportunities.
A key selection criterion for me is energy. I’ve cultivated the ability to sense frequency quickly. If someone operates from chronic low vibration—complaining, speaking negatively of others, or showing consistent depletion—that energy can drag both of us down.
If you’re not yet attuned to energy, pay attention over time. Listen to how they speak about themselves and others. These subtle cues reveal whether they’re aligned with your vision of co-creation.
The Litmus Test for New Mentor Relationships
Selina Soo notes that the best mentors are those who inspire, challenge, and genuinely want to see you grow. Recognition or experience alone isn’t enough.
My personal litmus test is whether they can offer guidance without judgment. If you feel unsafe, judged, or manipulated, it’s unlikely the relationship will allow your full expression.
Beware of early “love-bombing.” Excessive praise or painting a fantastical vision of who you’ll become (with their help, of course) can be a subtle form of manipulation. Genuine mentorship is grounded and supportive, not performative.
And remember, mentorship doesn’t need to be formal. It could be following an expert’s content, having occasional check-ins, or even an expertise exchange. In fact, some of my most meaningful mentor relationships started this way. These exchanges often create a more organic, mutual rhythm of growth.
At its core, building rich relationships is about discernment and generosity. It’s not about amassing contacts, but about weaving together connections that inspire growth, amplify one another’s brilliance, and expand what’s possible.
As you reflect this week, ask yourself:
✨ Which relationship type: collaborator, peer, or mentor—do I most need to initiate or deepen right now?
✨ What is one act of breathtaking generosity can I take to enrich someone else’s journey?
The relationships you choose to invest in will shape your future self. And remember, true networks aren't measured by size, they’re about depth.
As Selina beautifully sums up : “One rich relationship is more valuable than a hundred casual connections.”
I’d love to hear in the comments: Which litmus test resonated most with you? And what’s one intentional step you’ll take toward cultivating a “rich” relationship this season?
This is lovely - thank you so much for sharing!