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“You could have the best product, book, service, whatever it is, but if you don't talk about it or anything, how will people know to buy it?”
Are you tired of obsessing over LinkedIn impressions and likes? In this episode of Startups in Stilettos, host Ingrid Zapata Read and co-host Carlyn Bushman sit down with Natasha Walstra, founder of NearPoint Strategies and a social selling coach, to discuss why real business growth happens off the platform.
Natasha shares how she transformed LinkedIn from a corporate networking tool into a powerful lead generation engine without resorting to spammy tactics. She breaks down the marketing psychology behind high-converting personal brands and explains why engagement metrics don’t always equal revenue. You’ll learn how to craft a content strategy that attracts ideal clients, nurture genuine relationships, and ultimately convert followers into paying customers, without sounding salesy.
What We Talked About:
How Natasha Found Her Passion [2:55]
How Natasha Finds Her Self-Confidence [10:45]
Why is Personal Branding So Important? [18:51]
Approach LinkedIn Like You Approach Real Life [28:25]
Connect with Natasha:
Natasha Walstra on LinkedIn
@nearpoint.strategies on Instagram
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Guests
Natasha Walstra
Natasha Walstra
Hosts
Carlyn Bushman
Carlyn Bushman is a seasoned business consultant, entrepreneur, and advocate for female founders. She founded POP Business Academy to empower women entrepreneurs with tools for building sustainable, profitable businesses. As CEO of Carlyn Bushman Consulting, she specializes in helping product- and service-based business owners navigate financials, marketing, and growth strategies. With extensive corporate experience, Carlyn, a mom in a blended family and lifelong learner, has been featured on Good Morning America and in Times Square. She's here to help you make money and stay in business.
Ingrid Zapata Read
Grow With Community
Ingrid Zapata Read is a community strategist and founder of Grow With Community. She helps businesses get closer to the people they serve and build stronger, more intentional relationships around their mission.
After building a global community for moms of over 200,000 members, and through her experience in sales, startups, and customer experience, Ingrid brings a people-first perspective to growth across industries. She’s known for her thoughtful, practical approach and believes community building should be a part of every business strategy.
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