Networking with Purpose and the Journey of Greg DeKalb
- Brainz Magazine
- May 21
- 4 min read
Born and raised in Chicagoland, Deanna Radulescu is a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in Business and Accounting. As the former VP of Key Accounts & Business Operations for a $20 million transmission remanufacturing facility, Deanna navigated complex contracts, doubling business size and earning stellar recommendations from major clients.
In the bustling world of networking, few names resonate as strongly as Greg DeKalb. As the founder of Appointments IQ and the renowned Tony P's Networking Events in Chicago, Greg has carved a niche for himself in the realm of business development and community building. With a passion for connecting people and fostering relationships, he has transformed the networking landscape in the Windy City.
A leap of faith
Greg's journey began eight years ago when he decided to leave the corporate world behind. With a background in sales and marketing, he took a bold step into entrepreneurship, launching Appointments IQ. This marketing agency specializes in outsourced business development, helping small and medium-sized companies fill their sales pipelines and leverage the latest technologies to secure appointments.
But Greg's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. Alongside his friend Tony P, he co-founded Tony P's Networking Events, a series of gatherings designed to bring entrepreneurs and business professionals together in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. "We realized that many networking events were held in bland conference rooms, lacking the energy and vibe that could truly inspire connections," Greg shared during a recent podcast interview.
The birth of Tony P's networking events
The inception of Tony P's Networking Events was a natural progression for Greg and Tony. After attending various networking events and noticing a growing demand for a more engaging experience, they decided to create their own. The name "Tony P's" emerged from Tony's long-standing reputation in the networking community, where he was affectionately known as "Tony P!" by his peers.
Their events quickly gained traction, attracting a diverse crowd of entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals eager to connect. "We wanted to humanize networking," Greg explained. "It's all about meeting people and building relationships."
Adapting to change
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many networking events were forced to shut down.
However, Greg and Tony demonstrated remarkable adaptability by pivoting to virtual networking. They hosted online events that connected people from across the country and even around the globe. "We realized that people still needed to connect, so we facilitated online networking sessions," Greg recalled. This initiative not only kept their community engaged but also expanded their reach significantly.
As the world began to reopen, Greg and Tony returned to in-person events, introducing new formats such as art exhibitions, fashion shows, and women's empowerment events. Their commitment to inclusivity and diversity has allowed them to cater to various audiences, ensuring that everyone has a space to network and thrive.
The secret to success
What sets Tony P's Networking Events apart from others? According to Greg, it's the personal touch. "Tony and I are at every event. We greet attendees, make introductions, and ensure that everyone feels welcome," he said. This hands-on approach fosters a sense of community and encourages attendees to return.
Greg emphasizes the importance of follow-up after events, encouraging participants to connect on social media and continue the conversations started during the gatherings. "Networking is not just about the event; it's about building lasting relationships," he noted.
Looking ahead
As Greg and Tony look to the future, they have ambitious plans to expand their model to other cities, including Nashville and Florida. "We want to take the energy and community we've built in Chicago and share it with other places," Greg shared. With a focus on creating unique experiences tailored to different audiences, the duo is poised to make a significant impact on the networking scene across the country.
In a world where connections are more important than ever, Greg DeKalb stands out as a beacon of inspiration. His journey from corporate employee to successful entrepreneur and community builder is a testament to the power of networking with purpose. As he often says, "Always be networking."
For those looking to connect with Greg and learn more about his ventures, visit here and follow Tony P's Networking Events on social media. Whether you're in Chicago or planning to visit, don't miss the opportunity to experience the vibrant networking community that Greg and Tony have created.
Deanna Radulescu, Founder & Host of Label Free Podcast
Born and raised in Chicagoland, Deanna Radulescu is a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in Business and Accounting. As the former VP of Key Accounts & Business Operations for a $20 million transmission remanufacturing facility, Deanna navigated complex contracts, doubling business size and earning stellar recommendations from major clients. After a life-changing event, Deanna pursued her passion for fashion, founding Deanna Marie Label and successfully launching three collections, including a Kickstarter campaign raising over $5k. A skincare line and a charity event against Human Trafficking rounded out her fashion journey. In 2019, Deanna ventured into podcasting with Label Free.
