Business by Referral Podcast

Welcome to the Business by Referral podcast, where 6-figure solopreneurs discover the must-know secrets for getting off the revenue roller-coaster and building a business that fuels their passions, funds their dreams and leaves a legacy! Each week the Referral Diva herself, Virginia Muzquiz, will be bringing you how-to tips, tactics, and strategies to put you on the path to building the kind of business relationships that lead to revenue AND results!

Episode 190: Courage, Healing & Self-Love with Erin Jean 11/17/2025

Episode 189: The Reinvention Mindset with Lori McDowell 11/10/2025

Episode 188: Entrepreneurship, Grit and Growth with Harvey Mitchell 11/03/2025

Episode 187: Money Mindset & Financial Clarity with Melissa Miranda 10/27/2025

Episode 186: Transforming Trauma into Thought Leadership with Deidre Sirianni 10/20/2025

Episode 185: From Tragedy to Triumph with Wendy Melrose 10/13/2025

Episode 185: From Tragedy to Triumph with Wendy Melrose Wendy Melrose's BIO: Wendy Melrose is the founder of Resilience Press, an innovative publishing company dedicated to empowering survivors to share their powerful stories of triumph and victory. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience and a deep passion for storytelling, Wendy specializes in guiding authors from initial concept to published book, enabling them to make a meaningful impact in the lives of readers. Wendy’s journey began when the Lord reignited her gift for writing after years of self-doubt. Her personal experiences overcoming significant obstacles fueled her mission to support others in finding clarity, courage, and purpose through writing. Known for her warm, faith-driven approach, Wendy’s guidance has helped numerous authors release transformational books that inspire healing and resilience. Committed to expanding her impact, Wendy recently launched her podcast, Healed. Whole. Called., a vibrant platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of victorious women who have overcome trauma and tragedy. Each episode highlights authentic conversations, practical wisdom, and powerful testimonies designed to uplift listeners and affirm their own journeys toward wholeness. Grounded in Proverbs 16:3, Wendy daily dedicates her work to the Lord, trusting Him to guide each project and conversation. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Wendy’s greatest joy comes from her family and her unwavering faith. Her compassionate spirit, coupled with her professional expertise, positions Wendy as a trusted facilitator and mentor, passionately committed to illuminating the strength and beauty in every survivor’s story. In this episode, Virginia and Wendy talked about: Wendy’s leap from insurance to Resilience Press Storytelling as healing and opportunity Legacy writing vs. business goals Wendy’s process with authors Faith, referrals, and community in business Takeaways: Your story saves lives. Healing happens when you share. Let your mess become your message Turn pain into purpose. Write it. Heal from it. Share it. Connect with Wendy on her social media accounts to learn more about her work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn URL : https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendymelrose/ Facebook URL : https://www.facebook.com/wendycmelrose/ Instagram URL : https://www.instagram.com/wendy_melrose/ Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/38024905

Episode 184: Build your Business Foundations with Nikki Green 10/06/2025

Episode 183: Making Accounting Approachable with Steve Koch 09/29/2025

Episode 182: The Business of Future You with Shelby Hansen 09/22/2025

Episode 181: The Power of Perception with Christian Hansen 09/15/2025

Episode 180: The Three Reasons You Don’t Get Referrals with Frank Agin 09/08/2025

Episode 179: Reclaim Your Dreams Through Play with S. S. Coulter 09/01/2025

Episode 178: Taking the Leap with Lana Manikowski 08/25/2025

Episode 177: How Strategic Relationships Drive Business Growth with Lyndsay Mitcheson 08/18/2025

Episode 177: How Strategic Relationships Drive Business Growth with Lyndsay Mitcheson Lyndsay Mitcheson's BIO: Lyndsay’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and transformation. After losing her leg to an MRSA infection, she set out to design a walking stick she could feel proud to use. What began in her kitchen became Neo Walk, a bold brand of stylish, colourful acrylic walking sticks that empower people living with disabilities to embrace their mobility with confidence and pride. Neo Walk now ships to over 28 countries and offers a wide range of designs—from sleek classics to light-up statement pieces—redefining what mobility aids can look and feel like. Lyndsay’s mission is simple but powerful: to make walking sticks that people want to use. In 2023, Neo Walk received both a National Diversity Award and a Women in Business Award, and its unique designs have even appeared on red carpets through collaborations with Hollywood stylists. Lyndsay’s story is a powerful reminder that personal challenges can spark meaningful change—and that mobility aids can be more than functional; they can be beautiful, bold, and proudly carried. In this episode, Virginia and Lyndsay talked about: How Lyndsay turned personal adversity into a thriving global brand The power of word-of-mouth and networking in building a business Why brand credibility starts with authentic relationships Leveraging strategic partnerships to reach new markets Balancing purpose, service, and profitability in entrepreneurship Takeaway: Your challenges don’t define you, your response does. Strategic relationships can open doors, marketing can’t. Word-of-mouth is still one of the most powerful growth tools. Your brand’s credibility is built through connection not just promotion. Visibility creates possibility. Be seen to inspire the next generation. Connect with Lyndsay on his social media accounts to learn more about his work and insights into networking effectively: Facebook URL: Instagram URL: Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/37781085

Episode 176: The Success Trifecta: Business, Family and Fitness with Brian Parana 08/11/2025

Episode 176: The Success Trifecta: Business, Family and Fitness with Brian Parana Brian Parana's BIO: Brian Parana is not merely a health coach; he is a transformative catalyst who comprehends the intricate balance between professional achievement, personal well-being, and family responsibilities. Brian’s over two decades of helping 1,000’s of clients0 in the nutrition and fitness industry serve as a testament to the importance of consistency and dedication in impacting individuals’ lives. His experience comes from owning 2 CrossFit gyms for years, online speaking opportunities, and serving busy professionals globally as a health & lifestyle coach. Weight loss and improving poor health situations are just the start of his coaching. Notably, he has had the privilege of coaching a 2-time Olympian and CrossFit World Champion. With 15+ years of entrepreneurship, while raising a young family, Brian blends using science-back strategies to empower his clients to regain control and confidence through building a sustainable lifestyle with the relentless demands of managing a successful business and, more importantly, supporting a family. He married his high school sweetheart, Amber, for nearly two decades, while raising 4 children, ranging in age from 15-9: 3 boys and 1 girl. The Paranas share a passion for travel, exploring all 50 states and 3 continents. Their next BIG goal is to visit all 7 continents! In this episode, Virginia and Brian talked about: How Brian started his fitness journey How to balance business, family and fitness Motivation vs. Will Power Why AI might be ruining your referrability Why it’s so hard to get results Takeaway: -If your body wears out, who will run your business? -Who’s in your “Me Team” -In the absence of structure, habit always wins (Jay Fiset) -People helping other people..that’s just business. -We are in a trust recession - slow down and build relationships. Connect with Brian on his social media accounts to learn more about his work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn URL https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachbrianparana/ Facebook URL https://www.facebook.com/coachbrianparana Instagram URL https://www.instagram.com/coachbrianparana/ Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/37690185

Episode 175: Turning Networking into a Marketing System with Tim Hyde 08/04/2025

Episode 174: Raising Leaders at Home and in Business with Janet Krebs 07/21/2025

Episode 173: Human Design in Business with Candy Barone 07/14/2025

Episode 173: Human Design in Business with Candy Barone Candy Barone's BIO: Candy Barone is a Leadership Alchemist and Human Design Guide, empowering visionary leaders and changemakers to unlock their true leadership potential and lead with clarity, purpose, and alignment. With over 30 years of experience in leadership and business strategy, Candy specializes in helping leaders break free from outdated paradigms, reconnect with their soul’s blueprint, and create transformative impact that lasts. Through her work, Candy blends the power of Human Design and Gene Keys with relational intelligence to guide clients in activating their unique leadership voice. She believes leadership isn’t just about strategy; it’s about cultivating heart-centered connections, fostering deep relationships, and leading with authenticity. Candy’s approach goes beyond conventional leadership. She helps clients shed limiting beliefs and step into bold, unapologetic leadership that aligns with their core essence, allowing them to make lasting, aligned impact in their businesses and beyond. Candy has helped countless leaders tap into their full potential and create a Living Legacy that reflects their deepest values and vision. Whether through 1:1 mentoring, Human Design readings, Gene Keys insights, or strategic frameworks, Candy offers a unique, soul-led approach to leadership that’s both transformational and sustainable. When she’s not guiding visionary leaders, Candy is dedicated to igniting a leadership revolution that’s deeply connected, empowering, and purpose-driven. In this episode, Virginia and Candy talked about: How Candy blended her engineering background with Quantum energetics Why human design helps us understand how we operate in the world Candy’s non-traditional way of building business and transforming her clients Divine feminine and Divine masculine How to create more functional partnerships in business Takeaways: Let your clients learn from your experiences What is your living legacy? Leadership is a team sport Focus on Return on Impact The best relationship helps you grow. Connect with Candy on her social media accounts to learn more about her work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn URL - Facebook URL - Instagram URL - Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/37324985

Episode 172: The Power of Trust in Financial Planning And Networking with Mason Brunsmann 07/07/2025

Episode 172: The Power of Trust in Financial Planning And Networking with Mason Brunsmann Mason Brunsmann's BIO: Mason Brunsmann is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® with Sirius Wealth Management, known for delivering comprehensive financial planning and investment management strategies tailored to the unique needs of business owners and families. His specialties include comprehensive financial planning, investment management, risk management, and income & tax planning. Mason is dedicated to helping clients work toward their financial goals through personalized, strategic guidance. Mason holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Business Administration with a finance emphasis from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. He also earned a graduate certificate in Financial Technology from the same institution, as well as a graduate certificate in Financial Planning through Kaplan College of Financial Education. Mason maintains FINRA Series 7, 9, 10, 63, and 66 licenses, equipping him with a deep understanding of the financial services landscape. With over a decade of experience, Mason is committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of building and protecting wealth across every stage of life. In this episode, Virginia and Mason talked about: How Mason uses social media to create visibility Mason’s journey to financial planning Mason’s unique take on building wealth Mason’s financial planning pet peeves The value of networking for improving client retention Takeaways: You need to always “Know a guy who” It’s better to create a network that is an inch wide and a mile deep, than a mile wide and an inch deep Focus on building trust and the money will follow Don’t chase 1,000 connections—nurture the right 10. Reciprocity isn’t always instant, but it’s always real. Connect with Mason on his LinkedIn account to learn more about his work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mason-brunsmann-cfp-financialadvisor/ Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/37205370

Episode 171: Conversations From The Green Velvet Chair with Laura Ballerini 06/30/2025

Episode 171: Conversations From The Green Velvet Chair with Laura Ballerini Laura Ballerini's BIO: Perspective shifter, Laura Ballerini is an accomplished designer who has been running a thriving communications firm for over 25 years. She started her creative journey in the Advertising Department of The Calgary Herald—during the heyday of newspapers. Ballerini has a degree in Visual Communications from The Alberta University of the Arts and is a recipient of numerous awards. While she’s a quiet and introverted creative, Laura has recently found her inner badass and radiates her “quietly fierce” disposition in her work and in her personal life. As author of The Green Velvet Chair, Laura gathered a collection of heartfelt stories depicting how art and design influence us and spur creativity in our everyday lives. The essays are viewed through her unique creative lens. Running her own design boutique over many decades has enabled Laura to work with a variety of clients from many industries. She deliberately chose to ensure her client base was diverse and sees this as her strength. Laura comes to the table with fresh eyes and approaches every project with unique interest and expertise. Ballerini lives in Calgary, Alberta, with her husband, children, and a pretentious cat named Gooey. In this episode, Virginia and Laura talked about: Laura’s background as a designer The transition from print to digital media Networking as an introvert Laura’s new book The Green Velvet Chair The Power of Thought leadership Takeaways: Know Your Audience Learn to tell your story Flip the networking narrative Ask great questions and listen intensely for networking success. Commit to your vision even when no one else see it Connect with Laura on her LinkedIn account to learn more about her work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraballerini/ Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/37204840

Episode 170: When You Know You Are Made For More with Alison Jones 05/28/2025

Episode 169: Your Body In Your Business with Lila Veronica 05/07/2025

Episode 168: Priorities, Networking and Peace with Sophie Anderson 04/30/2025

Episode 167: Building Genuine Connections for Business Success with Alex Aanderud 04/23/2025

Episode 167: Building Genuine Connections for Business Success with Alex Aanderud Alex Aanderud's Bio: Alex Aanderud, world renowned leadership, communication and human behavior expert, has been brought in by some of the top coaching companies, organizations and teams around the world to train their people on new and innovative perspectives of human performance, leadership and communication. Alex combines his background as an engineer supporting experimental flight test for Boeing and the US Military with his advanced certifications in integrative psychology and behavioral analysis to apply systems thinking and analytics to the human capital of organizations. Utilizing various psychometric assessments to improve team dynamics, retention, integrative leadership and profitability, Alex has helped teams and organizations create massive growth, increased retention, productivity and engagement Alex's mission is to create a world where leaders promote authenticity by adapting their communication and leadership to the needs of their people, creating and cultivating the highest potential for success. In this episode, Virginia and Alex talked about: How Alex’s resilience made him a perfect candidate for entrepreneurship The power of forgiveness for success The psychology of networking Setting networking boundaries and finding Golden Geese Takeaways: You aren’t broken, you are just unique in your own way Their business card is a bid for connection Become a hunter for someone’s Golden Goose Make sure your networking expectations are clear Be clear about who you want in your world Connect with Alex on these platforms to learn more about his work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn.com/in/Alexaanderud Instagram.com/AlexAanderud Facebook.com/Alexaanderud YouTube.com/@AlexAanderud Vitalspark.ai: LinkedIn.com/company/vitalsparkllc Instagram.com/ Facebook.com/AILifeCoach Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/36252370

Episode 166: No Bro Selling with Kirstin Carey 04/16/2025

Episode 166: No Bro Selling with Kirstin Carey Kirstin Carey Bio: I’m a serial entrepreneur. I started my first business in college. I’ve built multiple 6- and 7-figure businesses that were brick-and-mortar as well as online virtual companies. I’ve been in business consulting, sales, health coaching, restaurants, and professional speaking, to name a few. I’m also a holistic practitioner littered with certifications in neuroresilience, nutrition, and emotional wellness. I became a practitioner because I needed a solution to heal from two autoimmune conditions - which I did. So I not only understand what it feels like to be a successful business owner, I also understand what it’s like when your body stops you in your tracks because you are grinding, forcing, and not being authentic to yourself. I also understand the psychological components to becoming successful and what is needed to avoid burnout. (Or what to do if you already have.) I’ve served on the National Board of the National Speakers Association, am a board member for Energetic Health Institute, and have served as faculty for functional medicine and nutrition programs. I’ve had as many as 28 people on payroll and as little as 1 and have personally sold millions of dollars of products, services, catering, online courses, retreats, and high ticket coaching… What I learned over the past 30+ years, running companies, working with top executives, speaking all over the country to business owners and entrepreneurs is this: you cannot build a successful business without being effective at selling. Period. Though you can have a little hobby on the side that never really takes off, or a business that might look good from the outside, but will suck the life out of you, if you don't stay in balance. And no matter the industry or business, there’s a basic process that is important to understand when it comes to sales - and much of it probably goes against everything you’ve probably ever heard about being successful. Selling should feel fluid, simple, and easy. If it doesn’t, then you need a better way. In this episode, Virginia and Kirstin talked about: Kirstin entrepreneurial journey from the age of 18 The importance of resilience in building business The problem with “traditional sales process” How to live (and sell) in the now Takeaways: If you are pushing to convince someone to buy, you aren’t selling well Your job is to help your prospect to a Clear Yes or No. Most people aren’t aware of their real issue We see people as WE ARE! If you are excited about something, you can sell it! Connect with Kirstin on these platforms to learn more about her work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn - Facebook - Youtube - Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/36033175

Episode 165: Survive, Thrive and Give with Georges Cordoba 04/09/2025

Episode 165: Survive, Thrive and Give with Georges Cordoba Georges Cordoba Bio: My life purpose is to help people live their best lives. I am a stage IV melanoma with metastasis in the brain cancer survivor. I fought the disease for ten years and had ten surgeries. Pharmaceuticals nearly destroyed my body, so with a leap of faith I took the natural holistic route to heal, and here I am, on my twelfth year free of cancer. I became a Holistic Health and Life coach, Holistic Mastery of Transformational coaching, Functional Nutritionist, Professional Speaker, Reiki Teacher and Practitioner, and Hypnotherapist. All these to provide more value for my clients. “I now see my survival experience as a blessing because God gave me a chance to sing the song I was born to sing, which is helping people live in wellness and purpose.” Seven years ago, with a leap of faith, I transitioned from being a Chief Technology Officer to working with people who are dealing with cancer or want to prevent the disease. I help them transform their health and vitality. I became an Amazon best-selling author for my book Beating the Odds, which is about my holistic journey to conquer advanced cancer. As an athlete, I played NCAA Division 1 Tennis for New Mexico State University, enjoy competing in 10K and Half-Marathon races, and am a piano player and music lover. I invest in planting trees worldwide and feeding America’s less fortunate population. I would love to share with you and your audience how I moved my steepest mountain, and how you and your audience can move yours too. In this episode, Virginia and Georges talked about: Georges’ journey to entrepreneurship How your emotions affect your health and your wealth 2 leaps of faith that changed Georges' faith How Georges is using podcast guesting to grow his business Building powerful partnerships Takeaways: Open your heart to receiving Healing happens from the inside out 4 legs of success: spiritual, physical, emotional, mental Be a student of your weaknesses Intention without action is an illusion Connect with Georges on these platforms: LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website: Schedule a Clarity call: Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/36032235

Episode 164: Speaking, Networking and Creating Success with Jasmine Rice 04/02/2025

Episode 164: Speaking, Networking and Creating Success with Jasmine Rice Jasmine Rice is a visionary confidence coach, transformational strategist, and architect of impactful experiences. Through her integrated work in Good Things coaching, Pinnacle Event Planning, and VoiceQuest, Jasmine combines deep psychological insight, strategic event design, and a commitment to amplifying authentic voices, creating pathways for both individuals and organizations to thrive. With a foundation rooted in psychology, nonprofit leadership and enhanced by numerous certifications, Jasmine brings a rare depth of understanding to personal and professional transformation. Her unique blend of expertise enables her to craft experiences that resonate on multiple levels—whether guiding clients to overcome personal obstacles, designing events that inspire connection, or empowering emerging speakers to share their message with confidence. Jasmine’s holistic approach ensures that each project, from coaching sessions to large-scale events, embodies a dedication to meaningful growth and impact. Her work stands at the intersection of resilience, confidence, and the power of shared stories, setting a new standard for transformative experiences. In this episode, Virginia and Jasmine talked about: Jasmine’s multi-preneurial history Jasmine’s networking journey Jasmine’s mindset shift that made networking work Jasmine’s newest project and how networking is building it Why networking and referral marketing beat digital for newer entrepreneurs What you need to prepare to be paid to speak Takeaways: Just because your networking isn’t working doesn’t mean it’s not for you 90% of what you SEE when you are networking ISN’T what you should be doing! Networking…More than just exchanging business cards Master Your Message Feel the feels - then shift to the positive Connect with Jasmine on LinkedIn Find Jasmine on his LinkedIn to learn more about his work and insights into networking effectively: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmin-rice-co/ Connect with Virginia: /episode/index/show/passionpurposeimpact/id/35959525

Episode 163: How to Become a World Class Networker with Robert Butwin 03/19/2025

Episode 162: Networking Doesn’t Always Come Naturally with Sue Coleman 03/12/2025

Episode 161: The Power of Storytelling and Networking with JB Braden 03/05/2025

Business by Referral Podcast

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