Your network often sees your magic before you do. J. Kelly Hoey, author of Build Your Dream Network, proved this when her colleagues had to convince her that networking was actually her superpower. As my very first podcast guest, Kelly set the tone for what Branding Room Only is all about: clarity, candor, and community-centered insight.

Kelly's brand is grounded in helping others succeed through meaningful connections. Her approach has transformed careers for countless entrepreneurs and leaders, and her journey from Big Law to entrepreneurship proves the power of strategic relationship building. In this special re-release, we dive deep into what personal branding really means, how your network reflects and reinforces your brand, and why your elevator pitch should be an invitation, not a monologue.

Whether this is your first time hearing this conversation or you're back for a refresher, get ready to take notes. This episode is packed with foundational wisdom that never goes out of style.

2:30 – What personal brand means to Kelly and why you need to listen to your network

5:04 – Kelly's approach to elevator pitches and networking your ambitions

11:11 – How Kelly describes herself and the Central Park analogy that changed everything

16:14 – The Oscar Wilde quote that guides Kelly when she feels off track

18:12 – Kelly's hype song from a Quincy Jones compilation

20:00 – How Kelly's network convinced her to write Build Your Dream Network

23:40 – Why personal branding became the confidence builder she needed

27:04 – Mentors who shaped Kelly's career (including some unexpected lessons)

31:45 – The pivotal career change that taught Kelly about plan B

35:00 – The best advice about having a plan B (spoiler: you shouldn't have one)

37:19 – The biggest networking mistake and why "don't be a jerk" is the real secret

41:41 – Kelly's best advice for building your brand through your network

43:25 – How to handle network feedback about your ambitions

45:04 – Kelly's "Stand By Your Brand" moment and her networking magic

Mentioned In Building Your Personal Brand Through Authentic Connections with J. Kelly Hoey

J. Kelly Hoey

Books by J. Kelly Hoey

“Carla Harris | The 2016 MAKERS Conference” - YouTube

“Rock With You” | Brandy and Heavy D | From Q. With Love - YouTube

New York City Bar Association

Pearls of Power: How to Use Authenticity, Boldness, and Intentionality with Carla Harris

Learn More About Paula's Personal Branding Strategy Session Offer

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Sponsor for this episode

PGE Consulting Group LLC empowers individuals and organizations to lead with purpose, presence, and impact. Specializing in leadership development and personal branding, we offer keynotes, custom programming, consulting, and strategic advising—all designed to elevate influence and performance at every level.

Founded and led by Paula Edgar, our work centers on practical strategies that enhance professional development, strengthen workplace culture, and drive meaningful, measurable change.

To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at [email protected], and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.