In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, Michelle Frechette and June Lui introduce Speed Network Online, a new virtual networking initiative for the WordPress community and beyond. They discuss the origins of the idea, event logistics, and the benefits of relaxed, pressure-free networking. The hosts explain how the event will operate, including registration, costs, and future dates, emphasizing the importance of building genuine connections and fostering collaboration in a supportive environment.

Top Takeaways:

• Speed Network Online Was Born from a Real Networking Challenge: The idea originated during a casual conversation where June expressed her struggles expanding her network at large events like WordCamps. Michelle immediately acted on the concept, purchasing a domain and jumpstarting the project. This quick collaboration shows the power of shared vision and execution between community members.
• The Format Focuses on Accessibility and Practicality: Speed Network Online is designed to be a virtual, low-pressure alternative to traditional networking events. It uses Zoom breakout rooms for one-on-one chats and provides participants with a spreadsheet of contact info afterward, eliminating the need for frantic note-taking. The event is purposefully inclusive, affordable at $20, and structured to reduce anxiety and improve accessibility.
• The Platform Encourages Relationship-Building, Not Just Pitching: Unlike speed dating or surface-level interactions, the goal is not to “close deals” or just market yourself but to build a lasting network of complementary professionals. The event supports deeper connections that may evolve into partnerships, project collaborations, or referrals over time.
• Speed Network Online Is Community-Driven and Evolving: June built the website from scratch, and they’ve begun promoting the project through a new Twitter (X) account: @SpeedNetOnline. They also encourage participants to create WP World profiles to make it easier to stay connected post-event. Michelle emphasizes that these types of grassroots initiatives are powered by genuine collaboration and shared community goals.

Mentioned In The Show:

• Backpocket Ace
• WP Accessibility day
• Speed Network Online
• The WP World
• Zoom
• Mark Westguard 
• WS Form
• Nathan Tyler
• N Squared
• Meet Michelle.online

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🐦 You can follow Post Status and our guests online:

• June Liu (Marketing Consultant, backpocket ACE)
• Michelle Frechette (Director of Community Relations, Post Status)
• Olivia Bisset (Intern, Post Status)

The Post Status  podcast is geared toward WordPress professionals, with interviews, news, and deep analysis. 📝

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