In this space, nothing moves without exchange. When I show up, I'm not here out of charity—I'm here because there's something worth my time. Information, insight, perspective, experience. That's the currency.

People think differently these days, but let's be real: if you're reaching out, someone's expecting a deal. Could be obvious, could be hidden, but it's there. Your tears? That's on you to handle. When someone leans in to help, they've already calculated what's in it for them. Maybe it's reputation, maybe it's connection, maybe it's just being in your debt later.

That's not cynicism. That's just how the world works. Every transaction—every single one—is a two-way street. Knowing that? It changes how you move.