In this insightful episode of the BNI San Diego Podcast, hosts Ed and Andy dive deep into one of the most challenging aspects of BNI membership: how to effectively generate referrals in industries where the ask isn't so straightforward. Whether you're in criminal defense, healthcare, finance, or any field where privacy, stigma, or complexity makes referrals tricky, this episode is for you.

👥 Topics Covered:
•Why certain classifications struggle with weekly presentations and asks
•Real-world examples (criminal defense, bail bonds, drug testing labs)
•How to use storytelling and specificity to craft memorable referral asks
•Maximizing your 1-2-1 worksheets to uncover referral opportunities
•Leveraging BNI Connect and AI tools like Higgins for creative outreach
•Why your BNI chapter members might pitch you better than you pitch yourself
•The power of vulnerability, creativity, and continuous adaptation

Plus, Ed and Andy share some laughs, AI tips, and even drop a “Magnum PI” reference while discussing BNI’s newest AI assistant, Higgins.

📺 Subscribe now and turn your toughest ask into your strongest opportunity.

Have a topic you’d like us to highlight? Please share with us via email at [email protected].  

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Abbie Wilson, a 13 - year - old powerhouse and the official Celebration Coordinator of BNI San Diego. Abbie, daughter of Executive Director Ed Wilson, shares her fresh and fearless perspective on attending her sixth National BNI Conference — and the unique experience of growing up immersed in the BNI community.  

From group Q&As with Dr. Ivan Misner to insightful takeaways about leadership, legacy, and the future of BNI, Abbie’s confidence and clarity leave a lasting impression on everyone in the room. Tune in to hear her reflections on conference highlights, generational impact, and what it means to “go big, go bold, and go beyond.”  

👀 Whether you’re a seasoned BNI member or just starting your journey, this episode offers inspiration and a glimpse into the next generation of leadership!  

👍🏻 Like, 💬 Comment, 🔔 Subscribe for more great stories from BNI San Diego.  

Please share with us via email at [email protected]. 

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

Welcome to the BNI San Diego Podcast! Our Guest this week is my long-time friend and colleague, Kevin Barber. Kevin is a 20-year ED in Germany South-West with 50 Chapters and over 1400 members, and his region has generated $1.2 billion in closed business. After 24 years working as a CPA in the audit industry and the services sector, he claims to have had “no idea” what networking was when he started his BNI career.  

Kevin has attended BNI meetings in 34 countries to establish a strong international network for his BNI customers, and in 2011, he initiated the project “BNI Connect-5”, in which he attended 5 BNI meetings on 5 continents in 5 working days! He has presented at numerous BNI Global Directors Conferences on “Connecting the World” and is regularly invited to speak internationally about “Changing the Way the World Does Business”. He is proud to be Chairman of the BNI Foundation Worldwide and is the founder of the BNI Foundation in Germany/Austria.  

Kevin is probably the only BNI director who has ever been inside the Big Brother House–twice!  

In this episode, we explore how the BNI Foundation is not only making a positive impact on communities but is also good for your business. Join us as we discuss how getting involved with the BNI Foundation’s initiatives can strengthen your connections, enhance your reputation, and open new opportunities for growth. We’ll share how supporting educational programs, and charitable causes can help build trust, expand your network, and create lasting goodwill for your business. Tune in to learn how giving back through the BNI Foundation can fuel both your business success and your personal fulfillment!  

Please share with us via email at [email protected]. 

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

In this powerful episode of the BNI San Diego Podcast, recorded live from Houston, Texas at the 2025 BNI National Conference, host Ed sits down with longtime friend and co - executive director of BNI San Francisco Bay Area, Mike Macedonio. Mike shares his incredible 28-year journey with BNI — from hustling through multiple jobs to achieving his ultimate goal of never working for anyone else again. Together, they dive deep into what it really means to build a life of prosperity, freedom, and wealth, touching on:  

• The importance of saving, investing, and recharging   
• Why collaboration and the "Givers Gain" philosophy are essential   
• Creating a legacy through gratitude, mentorship, and abundance mindset  
• Investing in yourself, others, your business, and the market 

Whether you’ re an entrepreneur, business leader, or aspiring change-maker, this conversation is packed with wisdom that will inspire you to define and pursue success on your own terms.  

Mike Macedonio is a New York Times Best Selling author, speaker, and Future Astronaut with Virgin Galactic. Mike is the Co-Founder of Asentiv®. By using the referral strategies that they teach, Mike has built Asentiv from a small training and consulting company to a franchised organization in 23 countries with over 60 locations. Mike is also an Executive Director for BNI in the Bay Area. In this role he helps thousands of local business owners build their businesses through structured business networking. 

📢 Remember to like, share, and subscribe for more real - world insights from business leaders who walk the walk.  

🎧 Listen now and start building your legacy today!  

#BNISanDiego #MikeMacedonia #BNIPodcast #ProsperityFreedomWealth #GiversGain #AbundanceMindset #BusinessNetworking #Entrepreneurship #LegacyBuilding #FinancialFreedom #BNI2025 #SmallBusinessTips #LeadershipDevelopment #MindsetMatters  

Have a topic you’d like us to highlight? Please share with us via email at [email protected]. 

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

Welcome to the BNI San Diego Podcast! Our Special Guest this week is my long-time friend and colleague, David Kauffman. David is the Managing Director for the BNI Delaware Valley Regions, which consist of three regions: Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Reading. BNIDVR has surpassed 80 chapters with 1700 members and continues to grow. He has been a member for over 25 years and is the last founding member of BNI Main Line I, having been thanked for over $8,400,000 in closed business and launched 52 chapters. One of his greatest achievements in BNI has been to sponsor over 300 members and is currently holding the number one Sponsor spot in the world. If you’d like to connect with David, you can email him at [email protected].  

In this episode, we explore the impactful work of the BNI Foundation and its initiative Business Voices. Join us as we dive into how the BNI Foundation is empowering local communities through educational programs and social impact projects. We’ll also discuss Business Voices, a program that allows BNI members to contribute their skills, time, and expertise to help local schools, non-profits, and charitable causes. Where can you make an Impact? Tune in to learn how you can get involved, give back, and make a lasting difference while building meaningful relationships within the BNI community! Please share with us via email at [email protected]. 

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

Welcome to the BNI San Diego Podcast!  Today’s Special Guest is my long-time friend and colleague, Mike Barbieri.  Mike is the BNI Executive Director for three regions in Georgia and a seasoned technology entrepreneur. With over 30 years of experience leading tech-driven businesses, over the past two years, Mike has focused on empowering professionals through AI innovation and referral networking. As a senior consultant with Higgins.ai and a leader of one of the largest and fastest-growing BNI regions in the country, he blends technology and human connection to help entrepreneurs generate more referrals, more success, and more time. Whether he's scaling AI platforms or building high-impact business communities, Michael is passionate about helping others grow smarter and faster. If you’d like to connect with Mike, he can be reached at [email protected].

In this episode, we explore how to "Accelerate Your BNI Membership with AI." Join us as we discuss the innovative ways artificial intelligence can enhance your networking efforts, streamline your processes, and help you build stronger connections within your BNI chapter. From optimizing follow-ups to identifying potential referrals, we’ll dive into practical AI tools and strategies that can give you an edge in your BNI journey. Tune in to discover how embracing AI can supercharge your BNI membership and take your business to new heights!

Please share with us via email at [email protected].  

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

Welcome to the BNI San Diego Podcast!  I am joined today by my Mentor and Friend, Dr. Ivan Misner, the Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of BNI, the world’s largest referral networking organization. With decades of experience in networking, Dr. Misner has helped millions of professionals build lasting relationships and grow their businesses globally. His innovative approach to networking has reshaped the way people connect, collaborate, and succeed.  I am truly honored to have Ivan on the podcast with us today.

In this special episode recorded live at the 2025 BNI National Conference in Houston, TX, we have the honor of speaking with Dr. Ivan Misner, the founder of BNI and author of “Infinite Legacy”. Join us as Dr. Misner shares insights from his book, exploring the concept of building a legacy that goes beyond business success. Discover the principles that can help you create an infinite legacy—one that positively impacts your relationships, community, and future generations. Tune in for a powerful conversation on the lasting impact of giving and building a legacy through BNI.

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

Welcome to the BNI San Diego Podcast! Today, we are joined by my long-time Friend/Colleague and Inspiring Mentor, Patti Salvucci. Patti was an Executive Director for BNI Massachusetts for 25 years. Upon retiring, Patti had 100 chapters and over 2700 members. Currently, she is the Board Chair for Friends of Thai Daughters. An organization that empowers young girls to keep them out of human trafficking in northern Thailand. Her secret to success has been a positive attitude, constant personal development, and a strong desire to help others achieve their personal and professional goals. In her spare time, Patti enjoys sailing, sea kayaking and salsa dancing with her husband. What's most important in her life is keeping strong relationships and a continual focus on contribution.

In this episode, we dive into the topic of "Maximizing Your Membership!" Join us as we explore how to maximize the value of your BNI membership, from fostering stronger relationships to generating more referrals. We'll share practical strategies on how to engage more effectively in your chapter, stay top of mind with fellow members, and leverage the full potential of the BNI system. Tune in for actionable tips that will help you take your BNI experience to the next level and accelerate your business growth!

Please share with us via email at [email protected].

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

Welcome to the BNI San Diego Podcast! My special guest today is Ina Masten, a Fractional CFO and Trusted Advisor with an extensive background as a Controller and CFO. With 55 years of experience in San Diego, Ina has spent her career helping businesses manage their finances with precision and insight. When she’s not working, Ina enjoys socializing with friends, reading, and exploring music across a variety of genres, as well as diving into streaming platforms. She shares her life with her husband Thomas and their fur babies Finn, the Accountant Corgi, and Mo, the rescue dog who serves as the "supervisor" of them all. Ina’s burning desire is to one day visit Africa, experience a safari, and stay at the hotel where the famous Rothschild giraffes reside. If you’d like to reach out to Ina, she can be reached at [email protected] and her website is www.mastensolutions.com.

Join us as we discuss the importance of "Instant Access: Your Business Docs, Anytime!" Join us as we explore how knowing what business documents you have and being able to access them at a moment's notice is crucial for smooth operations and decision-making. We’ll dive into the best practices for organizing, storing, and securing your important documents, ensuring you’re always prepared for meetings, audits, or unexpected situations. Tune in to learn how having instant access to your business docs can save you time, reduce stress, and help you stay on top of your game! Must Have Business Documents List.

Please share with us via email at [email protected].

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter

Welcome to the BNI San Diego Podcast!  I’m so excited about today's special guest, Dawn Lyons, who is also a great friend, mentor, and colleague with BNI in the San Francisco Bay area.  As a referral marketing expert, Dawn is the co-owner of 3 BNI franchises in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her regions have 60 chapters, with 48 Director Consultants on her team, and 1400 members! Dawn is in the Hall of Fame for BNI for opening 20 chapters in one calendar year – and is the only woman to ever do it! In 2024, her members generated over $103 Million in Thank You For Closed Business to each other! 

Join us for this take-action episode, as we dive into “Why Sponsoring = More Received Revenue for BNI Members!" We’ll explore how sponsoring new members not only strengthens your chapter but also boosts your bottom line. We’ll highlight the powerful benefits of bringing in new members, from expanding your network to increasing referrals, and how sponsoring can lead to tangible financial rewards. Tune in to discover how sponsoring can elevate your BNI experience, grow your business, and unlock a wealth of opportunities you might be missing out on!

Please share with us via email at [email protected].  

Visit us online: https://bnisd.com

BNI is the world's most successful organization of its type in the world. Members pass millions of referrals which translates to billions of dollars in business.

BNI San Diego
(619) 255-2620

Visit a chapter: https://bnisd.com/en-US/findachapter