Dining with Strangers in All 50 States: Shari Leid on Building Connection Through Events

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BEATS WORKING: Winning The Game of Events

WORKP2P

178 episodes

1 day ago

Welcome to BEATS WORKING: Winning the Game of Events, where party people Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren uncover the magic of creating meaningful experiences. From global conferences to local gatherings, we share stories and strategies to turn any event—or life moment—into something unforgettable. Packed with humor, resilience, and a little event-planner grit, this podcast proves there are no small events, only small invoices. Join us as we explore why getting paid to practice truly beats working to get paid.

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Dining with Strangers in All 50 States: Shari Leid on Building Connection Through Events

BEATS WORKING: Winning The Game of Events

44 minutes 51 seconds

2 months ago

Dining with Strangers in All 50 States: Shari Leid on Building Connection Through Events

Hosts Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren welcome Shari Leid — connection creator, friendship expert and author of "Table for 51" — to explore the art of creating authentic connections at events and in life. Shari shares stories from her project dining with strangers in all 50 states, the philosophy behind her Flip the Box movement, and tangible strategies for designing intentional communities that go beyond small talk. From courageous conversations to thoughtful event planning tips and the value of starting “ugly,” this episode is a masterclass in meaningful moments.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Shari’s 50-state dinner journey & memorable meals

[02:15] - How the project was organized: logistics, finding strangers, and event planning insights

[06:16] - Overcoming social anxiety: sparking deep conversations with new people

[09:23] - Most surprising foods and standout state experiences

[11:00] - Staying connected & building bridges across divides

[13:31] - Event planner takeaways: designing intentional, welcoming communities

[20:05] - Tips for maximizing connection and inclusion at events

[24:13] - Generational shifts: teaching connection in the age of screens

[26:36] - Keeping the magic (and community) going post-event

[28:03] - Most memorable swag—and the power of a simple cookie

[29:32] - Flip the Box: turning a personal story into a national movement

[32:10] - Planning an unforgettable book launch in NYC

[37:24] - What’s next for Shari: professional speaking, retreats, and connection projects

[42:17] - Closing thoughts on courage, connection, favorite party songs, and putting yourself back on the dance floor

Resources & Links:

-Shari Leid: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X

-More from Shari

-"Table for 51" Launch Party Planner: Lee Ramsay Events

-"Table for 51": Book & Launch Party

-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

-Facebook: @Beats Working Show

-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

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If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.

BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.