In this episode of Connections That Matter, we sit down with Paul Rodriguez, founder of Krownz&Kickz, to talk about what happens when you go all in on your dream. Paul shares how a face tattoo, a grill, and a passion for fashion turned into a thriving creative business specializing in custom hats, streetwear, and wearable brand stories.

Why You Should Listen:
If you’ve ever wanted to turn your side hustle into your full-time gig—or just need a reminder to bet on yourself—this episode delivers. Paul’s bold, no-apologies journey is packed with creative energy, entrepreneurial grit, and a whole lot of heart.

In This Episode:

• The leap of faith that launched Krownz&Kickz.
• Designing fictional minor league baseball teams like the Downtown Clowns and Palisade Screaming Peaches.
• Turning custom hats into conversation starters and brand-builders.
• How his mechanic sparked a breakthrough connection.
• The difference between hustling and grinding—and why it matters.

Business Recommendations:

• Baldo from Honest Mobile Mechanic.
• Blackafornia / Mr. Plugs (fashion creator + host of The Drip Show).

Connections Paul is Looking For:

• Small businesses wanting to turn their brand into wearable art.
• Creatives looking to collaborate on streetwear or design.
• Entrepreneurs who value originality and bold storytelling.

Connect with Paul:
🌐 https://www.krownzandkickz.shop/
📱 IG + TikTok: @krownzandkickz

Want to come network with us?
Check out upcoming events here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this high-energy episode of Connections That Matter, we sit down with Aaron Stenson, Sales Manager at Main Event – Windsor, to talk about how he's turning birthday parties, corporate outings, and even networking events into unforgettable experiences.

Aaron shares how he's helping local professionals rethink what networking can look like—by combining fun, creativity, and genuine relationship-building in a venue that brings people together from all over Northern Colorado.

🎉 In this episode:

• How Main Event makes hosting seamless—from small parties to full facility buyouts.
• Tips for entrepreneurs planning impactful networking events.
• Why building partnerships like those with the Colorado Eagles creates momentum for community engagement.
• How Aaron’s attention to detail and hospitality mindset make him a go-to resource for local business leaders.

💡 Why You Should Listen:

If you're tired of boring hotel ballrooms and want to spark meaningful connections in a fun, memorable environment—this episode is for you. Learn how event-based networking can supercharge your business growth, and why Aaron is one of the most community-minded leaders in Northern Colorado.

🤝 Connections Aaron Recommends:

• The Hach Company – A longtime partner known for team events and summer celebrations.
• Colorado Eagles – A valued community partner for meet-the-player nights and local engagement.

📣 Aaron is looking to connect with:

• Corporate event planners.
• Local business owners planning team outings.
• Nonprofit organizers or networking groups looking for a venue with energy and personality.

📍 Want to host your next event at Main Event?

📧 Reach out to Aaron directly: aaron.stenson@mainevent.com
📞 Call: 970-663-6363
📍 Visit: Main Event – Windsor, CO

🎟️ Want to come network with us? Check out our next events here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909

In this episode of Connections That Matter, I sit down with Tillie Peart, Managing Broker at Desperado Realty, who brings a people-first, fiercely loyal approach to property management in Northern Colorado.

Tillie shares her transition from corporate retail to real estate, how she builds trust with tenants and investors, and why she personally vets every vendor before referring them. Her blend of action, integrity, and hustle makes her a standout in a high-turnover industry—and a connector in every sense of the word.

🎧 Why You Should Listen:
If you're in real estate, investing, or work with renters, this episode will show you how to lead with trust, build loyalty through service, and turn your network into a true community. Tillie offers a refreshing, relational approach to a traditionally transactional business.

✅ Professionals Tillie Recommends:

• Chad Phyle – Financial Advisor
• Louis Gartrell / Gart’s Plumbing – Responsive and reliable plumber
• Jalen Perez / White Castle Roofing – Honest, professional roofing partner

🤝 Connections Tillie Is Looking For:

• Ethical tradespeople and contractors
• Real estate agents who value long-term client care
• Vendors who want to grow through relationships, not just sales
• Agents or property managers who want to join her growing team

📞 Contact Tillie: 970-219-1633 (Text preferred)
🌐 Google: Tillie Peart or Desperado Realty

🎉 Want to come network with us?
Meet Tillie and other inspiring Northern Colorado leaders at our next event:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nia-next-level-networking-3697909