This Is Why We Show Up

Your voice is still your greatest tool

You won’t believe the weekend I just had. It was a masterclass in communication in action.

Picture this: two high-impact leadership trainings, two unforgettable nights of connection, one inspiring colleague and collaborator, and one ridiculously humbling reminder that the only way I get to keep doing this work is by showing up fully—human and all.

This weekend, I had the incredible honor of leading two sessions during the Women’s Final Four in Tampa. And not just any sessions—these were part of an elite leadership track curated for top women in college athletics. I’m talking trailblazers. Game-changers. People who have made history with their names etched in banners, trophies, and record books—and still somehow take the time to lift others up along the way.

Even better, by my side was one of my colleagues in the business, a top creative partner, and a business visionary in her own right. Someone who has lifted me up as a former client and who has become a great friend over many years. 

Basically, the time spent over Women's Final Four weekend was absolutely WINNING at work. 

One of the trainings was a version of my favorite keynote: Speaking Skills to Outshine AI—because, let’s face it, presence and influence are everything. The second was all about networking and leadership: The Ultimate Career Assist. It was packed. It was lively. And it was powerful in a way that’s hard to describe unless you were in the room.

But that’s not even the half of it.

There were parties. Plural. We’re talking behind-the-velvet-rope kind of energy, but still completely grounded. Imagine walking into a space where legends show up in high-top sneakers, where the DJ is spinning 90s hip-hop classics, everyone is in the vibe, and you’re catching up with someone you first worked with 12 years ago who still remembers your training like it was yesterday.

Honestly, I was so lifted up from it all. Not from caffeine or adrenaline or endless handshakes—but from the simplicity of being in the presence of people I respect, admire, and love. These were connections spanning decades, and I saw the power of networking, relationships, and professional friendships in action. It reminded me that even in a world that’s changing fast, human connection still matters most.

A quick sports backstory

I started my career at IMG Academy, and for eight years I lived and breathed elite performance culture. I worked with athletes, coaches, executives—you name it. I may have grown up more of a ballerina than a basketball player, but I’ve always understood what it means to grind for greatness.

The thing that always blew me away? These people—these leaders—show up. They keep showing up, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard. And now, over a decade into this work, being welcomed back into the Final Four space, not just as a guest, but as someone trusted to lead the room… it meant everything.

Because here’s the secret: I’ve been uplifted by these women long before I ever got the mic.

Why Your Network Matters More Than Ever 

This weekend reminded me that no matter how quickly the world moves or how sophisticated our tools become, it’s still people who change the game.

I saw this happen for my colleague as she reconnected with other leaders in the industry. She knew people in every room we entered and it was so great to see the joyful recognition, tremendous smiles, cheers, and hugs, and moments of fond memories and appreciation she shared with so many other trailblazers. I watched it unfold like dots connecting, and I'm one of the lucky dots, too.

At one of the panels we got to stick around for, I heard the brilliant moderator ask: who has been one of your silent mentors? And I instantly understood. It's easier to keep that inspiration in how we see others from afar, but it was also a great reminder to tell them. To reach out and let someone know their impact, and how you hope to pay it forward.

The women I stood alongside, the mentors I’ve learned from, the friends I’ve walked this road with—they’ve shaped who I am. And not just by cheering me on when things are going great, but by showing up consistently, quietly, and powerfully through every twist and turn.

Your network doesn’t have to be loud. It doesn’t need to be big. But it does need to be real. It needs to include people who see you, challenge you, support you, and remind you who you are on the days you start to forget.

OK, Let’s Play 

Reflecting on this weekend, I’m reminded of the profound impact that authentic connections have on our professional and personal growth. It’s these relationships that uplift us, open doors, and create opportunities we might not have envisioned alone.

Ready: Identify a person in your professional circle you’ve lost touch with or someone you’d like to know better.

Set: Reach out with a genuine message—perhaps recalling a shared experience or expressing interest in their current endeavors.

Go: 

 • Schedule a coffee chat or virtual meeting to catch up.

 • Attend an industry event with the intention of deepening existing relationships rather than just making new contacts.

 • Offer support or collaboration on a project where your skills align.

Building and nurturing your network isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about cultivating meaningful relationships that inspire and propel you forward. This week, take a step toward strengthening the bonds that make your professional journey richer and more fulfilling.

Here’s What I Hope You’ll Take With You 

As a founder, speaker, and woman navigating all the unknowns of growth and leadership, I’ve come to believe one truth above all else: none of us rise alone. This isn’t about popularity or proximity. It’s about intention. Are you building relationships that nourish your mission? Are you making time to stay in touch with the people who light your path?

If not, now’s the time to start.

Send the message. Make the call. Show up.

Because the power of your network isn’t measured in how many people know your name—it’s in how many people genuinely know you. And who you get to become when you’re surrounded by that kind of support? That’s the real win.

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Hey there! I’m Blair Bloomston, author of UPLIFTED WEEKLY and your friendly consultant, facilitator, and game-based educator on-call, bringing a passion and penchant for all things play (I’m also alliteratively all-in). As the founder of Leaders Uplifted, I help leaders like you tap into creativity, connection, and confidence to make work feel less like a grind and more like a game. Keep reading with me— I’m here to be your business best friend. Let's go!