What if the key to unlocking your next level of impact, income, and influence wasn’t the perfect pitch, the polished funnel, or the “professional” mask… but simply showing the f* up**?

In this unapologetically raw and empowering episode of Communication Queens, host Kimberly Spencer sits down with networking queen Aria Leighty, whose superpower is building intentional, transformational connections. Together, they unpack why 80% of success really is just showing up, how our glitter, shoes, and statement pieces can be business cards, and why authenticity always beats the buttoned-up version of “professional.”

Aria shares her three golden principles—listen, give a shit, and follow through—and how these deceptively simple practices make you the richest person in the room. From redefining networking as relationship-building (not sales!) to breaking free from the toxic hustle of vanity metrics, Aria reveals how community—not just audience—creates sustainable success.

Whether you’re a podcaster, coach, entrepreneur, or visionary ready to disrupt the “quiet, good girl” conditioning, this conversation will light a fire under your stilettos and remind you that your story, your voice, and your presence are your most powerful assets.

This isn’t just a chat about networking—it’s a masterclass in owning your audacity and building a business rooted in authenticity, connection, and impact.

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Connect with Aria Leighty.

Website: https://showthefuckup.media

Instagram: https://instagram.com/arialeighty

Enjoy, sovereigns!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or your other favorite podcast listening platform. You can also watch the episode on Youtube.

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• Why 80% of success is just showing the f* up**—and how to make that less scary and more magnetic.


• The 3 Golden Rules of Networking that will instantly make you the most unforgettable person in the room.


• How to ditch the pitch and start building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships that actually fuel your business.


• The real difference between having an audience and creating a community that cheers for you, refers you, and buys from you.


• Why “professional” doesn’t have to mean buttoned-up, boring, or fake—and how to redefine it on your own terms.


• How intentional networking becomes the engine behind your visibility strategy, especially in podcasting.


• Practical ways to nurture connections without burning out—or turning networking into a one-night stand.

Moments of Note:

00:00 – Welcome to Communication Queens: Where Storytelling Meets Strategy

Kimberly Spencer sets the stage with a fiery reminder: your story isn’t just content, it’s your currency.

03:25 – Showing the F* Up: Why 80% of Success Starts with Presence**

Aria and Kimberly unpack the rebellious act of just showing up—and why it’s a revolutionary power move for women and disruptors.

09:40 – Glitter, Tulle, and Betsey Johnson: How Style Becomes a Networking Strategy

From pink tulle skirts to statement shoes, discover how your personal expression can double as your best business card.

15:55 – Redefining “Professional”: Authenticity Over Perfection

A raw convo on why “professional” doesn’t mean buttoned-up—and how to show up real without the mask.

21:30 – Intentional Networking Defined: Building Relationships, Not Sales Funnels

Aria shares her framework for networking that nurtures long-term, mutually beneficial relationships instead of one-off transactions.

27:15 – The 3 Golden Rules of Networking: Listen, Give a Shit, Follow Through

Aria breaks down her simple, powerful networking principles that make you the most memorable person in any room.

34:00 – Audience vs. Community: The Visibility Shift You Need to Make

Why communities create impact (and income) that audiences alone can’t sustain.

41:20 – Clarity Equals Speed: How to Enter Networking Spaces with Intention

From podcasts to conferences to Instagram DMs—learn how clear intentions magnetize aligned opportunities.

48:10 – Why Vanity Metrics Don’t Matter: Building Long-Term Impact Through Human Connection

A bold takedown of chasing likes, followers, and TV spots—and how true ROI lives in relationships.

55:45 – The Role of Community in Visibility and Business Growth

Aria reveals how community-centered strategies can outlive every algorithm, trend, and platform shift.

01:03:30 – How to Build Community Even If You’re Not a “Natural Connector”

Practical tips for doers, artists, and introverts who crave connection but don’t know where to start.

01:10:40 – Micro-Economies and Million-Dollar Referrals: The Power of Reciprocity

Aria shares how she built a thriving business ecosystem by focusing on community wealth and shared resources.

01:17:55 – Final Mic Drop: The Richest Person in the Room Gives a Shit

The episode closes with a powerful truth: showing up, listening, and caring aren’t just nice—they’re your most profitable business strategies.

Transcript:

For a full episode transcript, it can be found here.

Sharables:

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