"Don't be afraid to be vulnerable. Networking isn't transactional, it's about building genuine connections."

Mark Shepherd turned a LinkedIn post about mental health and meeting for drinks into Gathr, a 10,000-member community of VCs, founders, and PE investors. His biggest insight? Authentic relationships beat business card collecting every time.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Mark Shepherd, founder and CEO of Gathr, Europe's leading community for founders and investors. After starting his career in strategy consulting and venture capital, Mark built what began as "London Tech Drinks" into a carefully curated network that prioritises genuine peer connections over transactional networking. His journey includes an unexpected MasterChef appearance, battling OCD and anxiety, and discovering that the best business relationships are simply friendships with people who share your mission.

Together we unpack:

• Why networking as a word is "horrible" and what you should focus on instead
• How to identify the right rooms to be in and why curation matters more than size
• The power of reciprocity and giving before taking in building lasting relationships
• Why vulnerability and authenticity create stronger connections than any sales pitch
• The art of quality introductions and why one perfect intro beats five mediocre ones

👆 If you're a founder who finds networking uncomfortable or transactional, this conversation reframes it as building authentic peer relationships that support both your business and mental health.

About Mark Shepherd

Mark Shepherd is the founder and CEO of Gathr, Europe's leading community of VC investors, PE investors, founders, and advisors. What started as a LinkedIn post has grown into a 10,000-strong community with events ranging from intimate 12-person dinners to sector-specific breakfasts for senior investors. Mark's mission is simple: help founders and investors build genuine peer connections that transcend transactions.

Connect with Mark Shepherd on LinkedIn.

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