2025 Highlights: The Doctor of Connections & Building Momentum for 2026

Join Julie Riga as she sits down with Theresa Benvenuto, the "Doctor of Connections," for a special holiday edition reflecting on an extraordinary year of growth, transformation, and meaningful relationships. Discover how authentic networking, accountability, and intentional action can unlock opportunities and create lasting impact in your leadership journey.

In This Episode:
✨ How Theresa evolved from Doctor of Pharmacy to Doctor of Connections in 2025
✨ Why the "sweetness of business" lies in the relationships you build, not just the tasks you complete
✨ The power of accountability in accelerating leadership growth and transformation
✨ How the 30-Day Prospecting Rule creates measurable results through consistent action
✨ Behind-the-scenes stories from the Vault Conference and building the Before I Lead program
✨ Why challenging your stories unlocks doors to opportunities waiting for you

Key Takeaways:
📌 Relationships are the sweetness of business—prioritize authentic connection over endless tasks
📌 Accountability accelerates growth—join groups that challenge your limiting beliefs
📌 The 30-Day Rule works—prospecting and relationship building today shows results in 30 days
📌 Challenge your stories—the narratives you tell yourself either open doors or keep them closed
📌 Invest in yourself first—make your growth a non-negotiable investment
📌 Network with purpose—show up authentically everywhere, from conferences to elevators
📌 Aha moments change everything—stay open to transformation and breakthrough realizations
📌 LinkedIn is a relationship tool—use it for authentic engagement, not just connection requests

Memorable Quotes:
"We planted a lot of seeds this year, and our plants and roses and beautiful flowers are gonna grow in 2026." – Theresa Benvenuto

"We get lost in the flurry of all the work that we have to do that we forget the sweetness of business. And the sweetness of business is the relationships that we build." – Julie Riga

"If I can help you change the way you're doing something that is plaguing you, that is frustrating you, then I've done my job." – Julie Riga

"The work I did 30 days prior paid off. Prospecting, putting the time in, engaging, connecting. It all matters." – Before I Lead Member

"Put your investments in yourself. Join a group that keeps you accountable and helps you grow." – Theresa Benvenuto

Perfect for leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to build authentic connections, accelerate their growth through accountability, and step into 2026 with intentional momentum.

Connect with Theresa:
💼 Doctor of Connections (DOC) - Directly On Calendar
🌐 Business Development, LinkedIn Strategy, Networking
📱 Connect on LinkedIn to experience her gift for meaningful connection

Connect with Julie:
🌐 julieriga.com
🎧 Stay On Course Podcast
💼 Before I Lead | Before I Speak | Before I Serve | Before I Jump
📱 LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Holiday Wishes:
Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year! Here's to a healthy, purposeful, and transformational 2026. Stay on course! 🌟

🎧 Subscribe for more leadership growth and authentic connection insights!
💡 Share this episode with someone ready to make 2026 their breakthrough year.

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