CURRENT MISSION

Connecting people, places, and things - because networking doesn't have to suck ;)

ABOUT ME

Hey there! My name is Sam Popp and I'm a freelance event producer living in New York City. I'm the creator of Networking Sucks, a monthly networking party in NYC and NJ, and I also lead a Meetup community of over 3500 entrepreneurs in the tri-state area. I specialize in creating events where attendees connect, learn, and walk away feeling empowered about their future.

I'm spending this year exploring some new cities to scope out their events market and entrepreneur scene - Philly, Austin, LA... I'm coming for you in 2017!

In my free time you'll find me hiking or out for super long walks, browsing thru art galleries or bookstores, checking out live music, discovering vegan-friendly spots to eat or booze-friendly spots to drink. I'm the kind of person that can walk into a bar by myself and leave with many new friends.

You can check out my IG for more pics of my exploits... @sampoppnyc

PHILOSOPHY

Everything and everyone you encounter has some kind of lesson or tidbit for you to learn. I keep my eyes and ears open at all times to receive what they might be.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

One of my favorite things about traveling is the ability to connect with new people. Couchsurfing is a way to combine my love of travel and connection. I often travel alone, so I enjoy the opportunity to connect with locals and spend time with new people.

We have some long term family guests in our apartment so we can no longer host, but looking forward to welcoming folks back in the Fall.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

I couch surfed for 3 days in Albuquerque with a wonderful young girl and her family back in 2014 - we unfortunately lost contact in the weeks after I left so I was never able to secure a recommendation... but her father suggested an awesome place to hike in southern New Mexico that wound up being one of my favorite parts of my trip!! I would not have ever known about this place had it not been for my host.

Interests

• animals
• culture
• writing
• wine
• music
• live music
• hiking
• entrepreneurship
• networking

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Before getting into this whole event production thing, I worked as a behavioral therapist for kids with autism and as a group home manager for adults with disabilities. I personally don't find it "amazing" because to me it was just my work, but it was incredible to be a support in the lives of these people. This work made me everything I am today.

What I Can Share with Hosts

What can I share? Always good conversation and huge amounts of positive energy. A home cooked vegan meal if you let me into your kitchen. Feedback on your presentation if you're a public speaker or event production/marketing advice if you're into that sort of thing!