Ep 132: An Introvert's Guide to Building Career Connections Artwork

When Mommy Grows Up

As moms, we love to inspire our kids to dream big dreams about who they’ll be as they grow up. But when is the last time you stopped to ask yourself, "Who am I going to be (next) as I grow up?"

The When Mommy Grows Up Podcast is the motherhood and career podcast for moms who need help defining what success looks like to them as mid-career professionals and parents, along with the support they need to go after it.

Hear real stories from real moms facing the same challenges you are. Finding flexible jobs, crafting a job you love, discovering your passions, crushing it at work, and getting kids off the bus! We’ll talk through it all.

Hosts (and fellow mom) Becca Carnahan of Next Chapter Careers takes your questions and provides practical step-by-step advice to help you move forward. All served up with a virtual mom hug and lots of laughs!

Send your stories and questions to podcast@nextchaptercareers.us.

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When Mommy Grows Up

Ep 132: An Introvert's Guide to Building Career Connections

July 07, 2026 • Becca Carnahan | Next Chapter Careers

0:00 | 17:51

Does the thought of networking make you want to hide in the bathroom... or skip the event altogether?

If you're an introvert (or just someone who dreads awkward small talk), this episode is for you.

In today's episode of When Mommy Grows Up, Becca shares why networking doesn't have to mean working the room, collecting business cards, or pretending to be the loudest person there. Instead, you'll learn how to build meaningful professional relationships in a way that feels authentic, and even plays to your strengths.

You'll learn:

Why introverts often make excellent networkers
How to reframe networking as relationship-building
Five practical strategies to make networking events less intimidating
Simple conversation starters that go beyond awkward small talk
Why following up is where the real networking magic happens
How to rebuild your professional network after a career break, relocation, or becoming a mom

Whether you're returning to work, changing careers, growing your business, or simply looking to expand your professional circle, this episode will help you network with more confidence, and a lot less anxiety.

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You are one click away from boosting your career clarity and confidence!

Head over to whenmommygrowsup.com where you’ll find the free Career Clarity Kickstart. With this free on-the-go guide, we'll walk you through 5 clear action steps you can take to go from confused about next steps to confident about what you want and need from your career.

Get started today!