Heather Renze: CTO at theDifference Consulting
Business conferences are everywhere, but very few make a lasting impact. PTTOW!, an exclusive event for CEOs, CMOs, creatives, and cultural icons, recently celebrated its 15th anniversary — proving its staying power. I attended and saw firsthand what makes this event so unique.
This is more than just an industry gathering; it’s a space where people form deep, lasting connections. Founded in 2009, the event started with only 24 members and now includes around 300 individuals from over 70 industries. It has even expanded worldwide with its PTTOW! Europe and Sports events.
As PTTOW! celebrates its milestone anniversary, its approach to business summits has set a new standard. Ryan Boughan, President & COO, explains that “PTTOW!‘s expertise is in curating the right group, at the right location, with the right topics to push people outside of their comfort zone. We’ve established an ethos of being radically inclusive and not allowing overt solicitation, which helps set the right tone.” It’s this ethos of inclusivity and genuine interaction that sets PTTOW! apart, creating an environment where people connect on a deeper level.
Samantha Rabstein, SVP of Programming and Talent at PTTOW!, adds, “It’s different because people are not coming here to sell to each other. They’re coming here to genuinely connect, not only with the rest of this community that’s been carefully curated, but back with themselves.” This focus on authenticity empowers participants to share impactful ideas in a secure environment.
PTTOW! members bond through shared experiences like hiking with endurance athlete Diana Nyad or participating in intimate fireside chats. These activities help members understand each other’s business strengths and weaknesses, sparking collaboration. For example, the 2023 summit featured a partnership between Slick Rick, Roblox, and PacSun forged during one of these “spark sessions.”
For entrepreneurs looking to replicate PTTOW!’s success in building community and innovation, here are some key takeaways that can be applied to any business, large or small:
1. Foster Genuine Connections
PTTOW! prioritizes long-term relationships over transactional networking. Entrepreneurs can do the same by investing time in getting to know their partners, clients, and team members. Building mutual respect and trust will lead to stronger business relationships.
Regularly engage with key stakeholders, focusing on relationship-building rather than mere transactions. Understanding their needs and motivations creates a more collaborative environment that benefits everyone involved.
2. Create Inclusive and Safe Spaces
PTTOW! is committed to inclusivity, creating a space where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves. This openness is key to fostering creativity and collaboration.
In your business, prioritizing diversity and inclusion can boost creativity and satisfaction within your team. Establish clear guidelines to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all. Encourage open dialogue and seek feedback on how to improve inclusivity. The more valued people feel, the more likely they are to contribute innovative ideas.
3. Leverage Shared Experiences
At PTTOW!, participants bond through shared activities that push them out of their comfort zones. You don’t need extravagant outings to foster this type of connection.
Simple, informal team-building exercises can strengthen bonds and improve team dynamics. The goal is to provide opportunities for your team to connect outside of the office environment. These experiences build trust, helping employees work better together in the long run.
4. Maintain Continuous Engagement
This is not just an annual event — it’s a year-round community. Maintaining continuous engagement with your team, clients, and partners is crucial for fostering ongoing collaboration.
Regular communication ensures alignment with goals and helps you stay adaptable in a changing business landscape. Implement strategies like newsletters, virtual meet-ups, or frequent updates to keep everyone engaged and informed. Tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams can facilitate ongoing conversations and strengthen your team’s connection.
5. Encourage Radical Innovation
One of PTTOW!’s strengths is its ability to inspire creativity and innovation across different industries. Entrepreneurs should create a similar environment by staying open to new ideas and encouraging experimentation. Don’t fear failure — see it as a learning opportunity.
Offer employees time and space to pitch new ideas or create an innovation lab within your business. By rewarding creativity and celebrating innovative thinking, you can foster a culture that thrives on fresh ideas.
6. Emphasize Authentic Leadership
Here, leaders are encouraged to show up as their true selves, fostering a more genuine and trustworthy environment. In your business, leading with authenticity is key. Be transparent with your team, admit mistakes, and show vulnerability when necessary.
This kind of leadership builds resilience and trust within your organization. Your team will appreciate your openness and will learn valuable lessons from your journey, including both successes and challenges. Give your employees the confidence to voice their ideas and concerns without hesitation.
7. Invest In Personal Development
PTTOW! emphasizes the importance of personal growth for its members, and entrepreneurs should do the same in their businesses. Investing in personal development helps create more fulfilled and motivated employees.
Offer workshops, courses, and mentorship opportunities to support your team’s growth, both personally and professionally. Encourage them to pursue passions and develop skills that will benefit not only their career but their overall well-being.
These strategies, inspired by the success of PTTOW!, can help entrepreneurs and business leaders create organizations that prioritize connection, inclusivity, and innovation.
By fostering authentic relationships, embracing diverse perspectives, and encouraging constant engagement, you can build a strong foundation for long-term success in today’s fast-evolving business world.
