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Networking Without Pretending: Real Connections for Autistic Entrepreneurs
If the idea of “working the room” makes you want to run the other way, you’re not alone. Discover how networking can feel genuine—without draining the life out of you.

Episode Summary
Networking doesn’t have to mean faking confidence or pushing through sensory overload—especially if you’re autistic or ADHD. In this first episode, Brad Hauck gets real about why traditional networking used to feel like torture, and how he found a way to make it work without pretending to be someone he’s not. You’ll hear what actually happens when you focus on building one meaningful connection at a time, and why being a good listener can trump being outgoing. There are practical tips for finding events that won’t fry your brain, how to recover from social hangovers, and what it takes to build relationships that turn into real business (and real friendship). This show’s about creating a business that fits your brain—and connecting with a community that gets it, too.

Key Topics Covered

  • How to show up at networking events without masking or burning out

  • Making consistent connections, not just quick sales or contact lists

  • Using conversation starters that feel natural (even if you hate small talk)

  • Finding quieter, smaller networking events that actually work for you

  • How to recover after networking and avoid social overload

Memorable Quotes

  • “Networking is not about you. It’s really about other people.”

  • “When I understood their problems, that’s when networking started to work for me.”

  • “Being consistent is more powerful than being outgoing.”

Timestamps

00:00 — Why networking felt overwhelming (and how that changed)
04:00 — Finding events that suit your style
08:00 — Starter questions when small talk feels fake
13:00 — Managing overwhelm and building in recovery time

Resources Mentioned

  • LinkedIn, Slack, Discord, Reddit (for online networking)

  • Chambers of Commerce, industry meetups (for in-person events)

Subscribe to In Business with Autism wherever you listen to podcasts. Join Brad for honest conversations about building a business that works with your brain, not against it. Learn more at www.mrwebmarketing.com

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2 episodes