In this episode of Rising Tides Live, the conversation dives into the high-stakes world of industry trade shows and strategic networking. Featured guests Laura Wilber, Restaurant Guest Acquisition & Retention Expert with Dinova, and Mark Hatch, VP of Trade Relations and Events at Informa, share their insights on how to maximize opportunities at conferences, build meaningful connections, and create lasting business impact. Laura and Mark join host Shawn Walchef to explore the art of preparation, the importance of showing up with intention, and the best ways to navigate events for long-term success. Together, they break down the strategies that turn trade shows from an expense into an investment, leaving listeners with actionable takeaways to elevate their networking game and grow their brands.

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• Preparation Defines Success – The best trade show experiences start before you even step on the floor. Research the speaker lineup, set reminders for key sessions, and engage with attendees on LinkedIn ahead of time. Knowing who you want to meet and why ensures every interaction is intentional.
  
• Show Up With Purpose – Walking the floor aimlessly or sticking with familiar faces won’t drive results. Prioritize attending sessions where your target connections are speaking, engage in meaningful conversations, and avoid the trap of staying in your comfort zone. Trade shows are about making new connections, not just reinforcing old ones.
  
• Follow-Up is the Long Game – Trade show connections don’t turn into business overnight. Many operators get overwhelmed with post-show outreach, so persistence matters. Continue engaging on social media, reinforce the relationship through thoughtful follow-ups, and play the long game—success comes from consistency, not a single conversation.
  

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• Cali BBQ Media: https://content.calibbq.media/
  
• Join Our Next Show: https://betheshow.media/rising-tides/
  
• Shawn Walchef on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpwalchef/
  
• Laura Wilber On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauramwilber/
  
• Mark Hatch On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hatch-a4382a2b/
  

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