We’re back with another My BNI Story. This time from the BNI Global Convention in Sydney, Australia! 

Meet Faarooq Dean, a BNI member from Sydney’s Northwest Pendris region, who went from joining BNI just one year ago… to being selected to design and print ALL the signage and branding for the Global Convention at ICC Sydney 😮 

💡 In this powerful member spotlight, you’ll learn:
✅ How one referral changed the course of his business
✅ The role BNI played in launching and scaling his print company
✅ What “Givers Gain” looks like in action across borders
✅ How BNI has impacted his business, family, and life
✅ Why he says, “I’m in BNI until I drop dead!”
✅ His dream to open a chapter in his home country of Fiji 

Whether you're a brand new member or a BNI veteran, Faarooq’s story is a reminder that the size of your results is only limited by the size of your belief. 

🎧 Tune in now to hear how belief, consistency, and the BNI system created a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

📬 Want to share your BNI story? Email: [email protected] 
👍 Like this episode 
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring member spotlights 
💬 Comment below: What’s the biggest door BNI has opened for YOU? 

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

We’re coming to you from the BNI Global Convention in Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺 — and this episode is packed with energy, laughter, and global insight. Ed Wilson is joined by Chrisie & Bill Ballard, Executive Directors of BNI Sozona (Southern Arizona) to talk about what happens when you take your BNI experience beyond your chapter and out into the world.

🎯 In this episode, you’ll discover:
✅ Why attending a BNI Global or National Convention is a game-changer
✅ How to build genuine friendships & partnerships across 76+ countries
✅ Why your next big referral might be sitting halfway around the world
✅ Why BNI is “your chapter on steroids”
✅ The “Next Play” mindset for bouncing back from business or personal setbacks
✅ And yes... Elvis makes a surprise appearance 🎸

Whether you’ve been to every convention or are just learning about BNI’s global reach, this episode reminds us that BNI is as big—or as small—as you want it to be.

🌏 Make BNI your passport to international connection, lasting friendships, and unstoppable growth.

🎧 Listen now for stories, laughs, and takeaways that go far beyond the referral.

📬 Want to share your BNI story? Email: [email protected]

👍 Like + Subscribe to support more episodes like this
💬 Comment below: What’s the furthest place BNI has taken YOU?

#BNISanDiego #BNIGlobalConvention #BNIPodcast #BNISuccess #GiversGain #BNISozona #BusinessNetworking #InternationalNetworking #BNIConnections #ReferralMarketing #NextPlayMindset #BNIFamily #BNIElvis

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

We’re coming to you LIVE from the BNI Global Convention in Sydney, Australia 🌏 — where BNI leaders from over 70 countries gather to sharpen skills, share ideas, and grow together.

This episode features a powerful conversation between Ed Wilson (BNI San Diego) and Spencer Reynolds (BNI Tampa) as they break down the real answer to one big question:

👉 Why Be a Leader in BNI?

🚀 In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ How chapter leadership accelerates your visibility and influence
✅ The real value of taking on roles like President, DC, AD, or Ambassador
✅ What “leading with training wheels” means (and why BNI won’t let you fail)
✅ The difference between coasting downhill vs. climbing with purpose
✅ Why leadership in BNI directly multiplies your business results
✅ The power of ROTI: Return on Time Invested

Whether you're a BNI member thinking about taking on a role or already leading and wondering what's next — this episode will help you see how influence, growth, and legacy all start with one decision: Step Up.

🎧 Tune in and be reminded why leadership isn’t just a title—it’s a tool to transform your business, your region, and yourself.

👇 Comment below: What’s one leadership role that helped you grow the most?
📩 Want to tell your story? Email: [email protected]

#BNISanDiego #BNIGlobalConvention #BNIPodcast #BNILeadership #WhyBeALeader #BNISuccess #ReturnOnTime #ROTI #ChapterPresident #DirectorConsultant #GiversGain #BNIWorldwide #EntrepreneurLeadership #BusinessNetworking

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 heartfelt episode of My BNI Story, we sit down with Jenn Edwards — real estate professional, long-time BNI leader, and living proof that consistency, community, and a givers-gain mindset can transform your business and your life. 

Jenn shares her journey of:

 
✅ Starting over in a new city (with no network) and building from scratch
✅ Going all-in on BNI — even when it meant saving up for 6 months to join
✅ The power of referrals, systems, and structure in scaling your brand
✅ How to earn your seat at the table and become truly referable
✅ Letting go of what’s not working and finding the right opportunity 
✅ Why BNI is a business system, not just a weekly meeting 
✅ Becoming the “go-to” person for trusted connections in her network 

🎯 “BNI changed our business. But more than that, it changed who we get to be in the world.” 

Whether you’re brand new to BNI, thinking of joining, or a long-time member looking to refocus—Jenn’s story is a reminder that when you invest in others, your business always grows in return. 

🎧 Tune in and hear how one decision to show up differently changed everything. 

👇 Drop a comment if you’ve had a moment in BNI that transformed your business.
📬 Want to share your BNI story? Email: [email protected] 

👍 Like this episode 
🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes 
📤 Share it with someone who’s considering joining BNI 

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 electric episode of our “My BNI Story” series, Executive Director Ed Wilson sits down with Gavin Ha — videographer, president of BNI Growth Unlimited, and passionate advocate for authentic networking.

Gavin shares how walking into his first BNI meeting felt like coming home—and how in less than a year, he went from visitor to chapter president, building real relationships, closing business, and launching entirely new ventures through BNI.

🎯 You’ll learn:
✅ Why BNI isn’t just a referral group—it’s a business blueprint
✅ How accountability & structure create more freedom
✅ Why authenticity is the greatest branding tool you have
✅ How to surround yourself with people who inspire, elevate & grow with you
✅ What happens when you show up to give first
✅ How weekly connection builds lifelong opportunity

If you’ve ever wondered “Does BNI work?” — Gavin’s story will give you the answer. This episode is an inspiring reminder that your next opportunity might just walk into the room… if you do first.

🎧 Tune in and rediscover the power of community, structure, and showing up fully.

👇 Drop a comment below if BNI has impacted YOUR business or life!

📩 Want to be featured in a future My BNI Story? Email: [email protected]

👍 Like this video

🔔 Subscribe for new episodes every week

📤 Share this with a new member or a guest on the fence

#BNISanDiego #BNIPodcast #MyBNIStory #GiversGain #BNIGrowthUnlimited #BusinessNetworking #BNISuccess #LeadershipJourney #AuthenticBranding #EntrepreneurCommunity #ReferralMarketing #RelationshipDrivenBusiness #BNILife

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 energizing episode, Executive Director Ed Wilson sits down with Kamryn Reynolds — a rising leader, businessman, and the brand-new president of his BNI chapter. Kamryn opens up about his journey from hesitation to full commitment, and the doors that opened when he finally asked himself: 

👉 “What if it works?” 

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ How a single invite to BNI sparked a total mindset shift
✅ Why leaning into the unknown can lead to massive opportunity
✅ How Kamryn went from new member to chapter President in just months
✅ The power of showing up authentically and taking imperfect action 
✅ Why BNI isn’t just networking — it’s a system that creates transformation 

🎯 Whether you’re considering BNI, brand new, or feeling stuck — Kamryn’s story is a reminder that when you commit fully and serve generously, BNI gives back tenfold. 

🎧 Tune in now to discover how showing up and saying “yes” can change everything. 

📬 Want to share your BNI story? Email: [email protected] 
👍 Like this episode 
💬 Comment: What’s YOUR “what if it works” moment? 
🔔 Subscribe for more BNI stories and strategies 

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 heartfelt and wisdom-packed episode, Executive Director Ed Wilson sits down with Mike & Jenn Edwards, the powerhouse couple behind The Real Mike & Jenn, to talk all things brand, business evolution, and leading with authenticity. 

🔥 Whether it’s photography, real estate, or any business they touch—Mike and Jenn bring the same energy, values, and client-first mindset. And that, they say, IS the brand. 

You’ll learn:
✅ Why your brand is not your logo—it’s the experience people have with you
✅ How to stay true to your brand while pivoting into new industries
✅ The importance of being relational, not transactional
✅ Tips for showing up with service, consistency, and authenticity
✅ Why the pie is plentiful (and how to stop acting from scarcity) 
✅ How to build a brand that works across any platform or profession 

Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, this episode is your permission to stop chasing flashy branding—and start being your brand. 

🎧 Tune in and experience the difference that authenticity makes. 

📩 Want to work with Mike & Jenn? Follow them @TheRealMikeAndJenn 
📬 Email the show: [email protected] 

👍 Like this video
💬 Drop a comment: What’s the real story behind your brand?
⭐️ And remember to subscribe and leave a 5-star review 

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 episode, we welcome back Matt Gardner, known across San Diego as the "Networking Guy," for an authentic and energetic conversation on how BNI strategies translate into massive success outside the chapter.

Topics Covered:

• Turning networking into a lifestyle (not just a task)
• The power of intentionality in every room you walk into How "showing up to give" creates momentum and trust The difference between hunters vs. farmers in networking
• How to network as yourself (authenticity always wins)
• Tips for introverts on stepping outside your comfort zone
• Using BNI values to stand out in any room or event
• Why VCP (Visibility - Credibility → Profitability) is a universal formula
• A Sneak peek at Matt's multi-network Business Expo (and why BNI will be there!)

Whether you're an extrovert who thrives in crowds or an introvert figuring it out, this episode will show you how to approach networking with purpose, strategy, and heart — in BNI and beyond.

•  Tune in and learn how to become a trusted, sought-after connector in any space you enter.

Special Mention:

Matt's Multi-Network Business Expo is happening October 9 @ Legacy Center, San Diego Come meet 30+ exhibitors, attend workshops, and make real connections.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to evaluate, adjust, and finish strong

👉🏻 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@BNISanDiego

💬 Tell us in the comments: What's YOUR best networking tip?

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 episode, Executive Director Ed Wilson is joined by Andy Cruz of Cruz Productions for a deep dive into finishing the year strong - in BNI, in business, and in life.

Ed and Andy discuss:

Why the fundamentals of BNI are the key to results (and why the "fun is in the fundamentals")

•  How to align your BNI goals with your business goals for measurable success
•  The importance of the Power of One Report (and how to use it to course-correct now)

Why the 4th quarter should be treated as a launchpad for the new year

The mindset shift from "I have to go to BNI" — "I GET to go to BNI"

Why you should always run through the tape, not to it

Whether you're a new BNI member trying to establish traction, or a seasoned member working to aximize your results, this episode will help you identify where to focus in Q4 to set yourself up for success in 2026.

🎧 Listen now and learn how to evaluate, adjust, and finish strong.

👉🏻 Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@BNISanDiego

👍🏻 Like this episode if it gave you tools for finishing strong!

💬 Comment below: What's YOUR top strategy for ending the year on a high note?

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

We made it! This is our 100th episode of the BNI San Diego Podcast — and we're taking a moment to celebrate, reflect, and share what we've learned from our amazing journey so far.

Hosted by Executive Director Ed Wilson, this solo episode dives into:
✨ Behind-the-scenes stories from launching the podcast
🎙 Favorite guest moments (Dr. Ivan Misner, Abigail Wilson, and more)
📚 Business lessons from 100 episodes of interviews
🌎 How the podcast grew from a local idea to a global audience
🚀 What’s next as we head toward episode 200... and beyond!

💡 Whether you’ve been listening since episode 1, or just found us today, THANK YOU. We’re here to help business professionals grow, make smarter connections, and become stronger referral partners.

🎧 Tune in to hear highlights, surprises, and the biggest lessons learned in 100 episodes of business conversations.

📩 Want to suggest a topic or guest? Email: [email protected]

👉 Remember to subscribe, like, and comment — and help us grow the impact even further.

#BNISanDiego #BNIPodcast #BNI100 #BusinessNetworking #GiversGain #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipPodcast #SmallBusinessGrowth #NetworkingTips #ReferralMarketing #EntrepreneurPodcast #BNIGlobal #LegacyLeadership

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