LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Dr. Ivan Misner

The Power of Networking and Leadership with Dr. Ivan Misner

Guest: Dr. Ivan Misner

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Podcast: How to Live a Fantastic Life

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dr. Ivan Misner, the founder and Chief Visionary Officer of BNI (Business Network International), the world's largest business networking organization. With over 11,200 chapters in 76 countries, BNI has generated billions in business referrals. Dr. Misner, often called the "Father of Modern Networking" by Forbes and CNN, is also a New York Times best-selling author with over 30 books to his name.

How BNI Became a Global Networking Powerhouse

Dr. Misner started BNI in 1985 as a way to get referrals for his consulting business. What began as a small initiative quickly expanded due to demand. Within a year, BNI had 20 chapters, and Dr. Misner realized he had tapped into a crucial need: structured networking.

Key success factors included:

• Consistency – Following a structured and repeatable networking process.
• Focus on a Few Key Practices – Doing six things a thousand times instead of a thousand things six times.
• Written Systems – Documenting processes to ensure sustainable growth.

The Secret to Business Success: Six Things a Thousand Times

One of Dr. Misner’s key principles is avoiding the "shiny object syndrome." Instead of jumping from one idea to another, successful business leaders focus on a handful of strategies and execute them consistently.

• Education is a "leaky bucket" process, meaning information gets lost if not reinforced.
• Training and repetition are essential to success.
• Learn from mentors and proven methodologies.

The Power of the Givers Gain Philosophy

Dr. Misner’s networking philosophy, Givers Gain, is based on the idea that helping others succeed leads to personal and business success. Networking should be about building relationships rather than quick transactions.

BNI’s impact:

• 16 million referrals passed in 2024.
• $25 billion in business generated for members.
• BNI’s economic output exceeds the GDP of 100 countries.

Lessons from a Best-Selling Author

Dr. Misner has authored over 30 books and believes that writing establishes authority and credibility. Key insights from his writing journey:

• Consistency is key – Set aside dedicated writing time (e.g., weekly or daily writing sessions).
• Leverage tools – Grammarly and AI can assist but should not replace original thought.
• Books act as marketing tools – A published book positions you as an expert and opens doors to media opportunities.

BIO:

Dr. Ivan Misner is the Founder & Chief Visionary Officer of BNI (Business Network International), the world’s largest business networking organization. Founded in 1985, the organization now has over 11,200 chapters in 76 countries throughout every populated continent of the world. He is a New York Times Bestselling author who has written 30+ books, is also a columnist for Entrepreneur.com and has been a university professor at several universities.

Called the “Father of Modern Networking” by both Forbes and CNN, Dr. Misner is considered to be one of the world’s leading experts on business networking and has been featured in the L.A. Times, Wall Street Journal, and New York Times, as well as numerous TV and radio shows including CNN, the BBC, and The Today Show on NBC.

Social Media:

Website: www.ivanmisner.com

BNI Podcast: https://www.bnipodcast.com/

Facebook: @IvanMisner.BNIFounder, https://www.facebook.com/IvanMisner.BNIFounder

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drivanmisner/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanmisner

X (Twitter): @IvanMisner

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEq8rtIgxbwhCQ2OEkFQUGw

#ivanmisner