In this episode of Rising Tides Live, the community explores how to turn online relationships into real-life connections through intentional meetups. Angelo Esposito, CEO and Co-Founder of WISK.ai, joins the conversation to share how a spontaneous text about a Vegas happy hour turned into a full-scale Rising Tides in-real-life event. Alongside host Shawn Walchef and others from the community, Angelo dives into the importance of putting a flag in the ground, why smaller meetups often yield bigger impact, and how showing up in person adds depth to digital connections. This episode breaks down the mindset and strategy behind hosting meaningful in-person gatherings that grow community, strengthen partnerships, and fuel momentum.
Interview Takeaways:
- Just Start—Even If It Feels Last Minute – When Angelo first pitched the idea of a Rising Tides happy hour during the Vegas trade shows, he thought it might be too late to pull off. But the community said yes—and quickly. The result? A fully planned event with major industry names attending. Sometimes momentum starts with one message.
- IRL Events Don’t Need to Be Huge to Matter – While large trade shows have their place, Angelo emphasizes the value of smaller, more intimate gatherings. A 30-person happy hour can lead to deeper conversations, stronger connections, and more meaningful business opportunities than a packed party with hundreds of attendees.
- Be the One Who Puts the Flag in the Ground – Real-life meetups only happen when someone is bold enough to take the lead. Whether it’s a happy hour, coffee meetup, or trade show dinner, being the one to say “Let’s meet here at this time” sets everything in motion and creates space for community to grow.
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