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BAREFOOT BUSINESSWOMEN'S EVENTS

Connection Without The Overwhelm

Have you ever stood at the edge of a networking event, scanning a room full of strangers and thinking:

"Where do I even start? Who might understand my business? How do I join conversations that are already flowing? Why does this take so much emotional energy?"

Or maybe you've felt that knot in your stomach when asked to stand up and pitch yourself, trying to sound professional but not salesy, comprehensive but not rambling, authentic but not too vulnerable, and try not to feel so nervous or breathy?

I created the Barefoot Businesswomen's Network because I needed something different. A space where connections happen naturally, without depleting your emotional reserves or requiring you to perform.

This Is Not Just Conversation. This Is Facilitated Business Growth.

The Barefoot Businesswomen's Network is an intimate gathering limited to just 10 women per session who believe business can be both successful AND soulful. Led by me, Victoria Maxwell-Davis (formerly behind the successful Glen Eira businesswomen's community), each session is gently facilitated to ensure meaningful outcomes and opportunity for all to be included, with ease.

We meet monthly at Studio Croxton in Northcote to:

  • Share and solve real business challenges through structured, facilitated discussion

  • Gain fresh perspectives and actionable strategies from diverse business experiences

  • Celebrate wins and breakthroughs with people who truly understand the journey

  • Build genuine relationships that extend beyond superficial networking

  • Develop your own business thinking through guided collaborative problem-solving

No elevator pitches. No forced referrals. No 7am starts. Just real conversation around a table with women who get it.

Each month features a focused theme to guide our mastermind discussions while still leaving room for your specific business needs.

Victoria creates a space that’s somehow both structured and free-flowing at the same time. I came expecting networking and left with three actionable solutions to problems I’d been stuck on for months. This isn’t just conversation - it’s collaborative business development.
— Hana Shapira

Why Women Like You Are Finding Value Here:

  • Structured problem-solving, not just networking. Each session includes focused time to work through real business challenges with guided facilitation.

  • Expert leadership from an experienced facilitator. As your facilitator, I bring years of experience creating transformative spaces for businesswomen (including the much-loved Glen Eira community).

  • Meaningful outcomes, not just conversation. You'll walk away with actionable insights, new perspectives, and concrete next steps for your business.

  • Relationship-building that goes beyond small talk. The format naturally creates deeper connections than traditional networking ever could.

  • No more awkward pitches. Share your work authentically in context, when it feels right and serves the conversation.

  • No more exhaustion afterward. Many women tell me this is the only business gathering that leaves them energized rather than drained.

Why "Barefoot"?

Because when we remove the pressure to perform and present a polished professional image, we can finally relax into genuine connection. We can ask real questions, share actual challenges, and find the support we truly need—not just collect more business cards.

The women who thrive here are those who are tired of wearing uncomfortable "professional shoes" that pinch their authentic selves. (And yes, actual bare feet are optional, but showing up as your real self isn't.)

The Value Exchange:

For just $25 (less than a single cocktail in Melbourne, one-third the cost of a basic manicure, or half the price of a decent bottle of wine), you receive:

  • 2 hours of facilitated, meaningful conversation

  • Connections with like-minded businesswomen who understand your journey

  • A comfortable, welcoming environment designed for authentic exchange

  • Real solutions to business challenges from women who've been there

  • Delicious brunch refreshments, tea, and coffee

  • The emotional relief of not having to "network" in the traditional sense

When you consider that many business coaches charge $250+ per hour for advice in Australia, and traditional networking memberships can run hundreds of dollars for far less authentic connection, $25 is truly an investment in your business wellbeing.

Reserve Your Seat at the Table:

Our next gathering is Tuesday, March 11th, 10:00am-12:00pm at Studio Croxton, 15 Spencer Street, Northcote.

  • Standard Seat: $25

  • Directory Members $20

  • Pay-What-You-Can Seats: For those in transition or who want to top up to help sponsor someone else

While each circle is kept intentionally small, we can open additional circles if needed, so everyone who wants to connect finds a place.

The most valuable business resource isn't another strategy or system—it's finding the right people who understand your journey without you having to explain every step.

P.S. Ever notice how much energy it takes to "network properly"? Our mastermind-style gatherings eliminate that pressure while delivering more value. You don't have to figure out how to join the conversation. You're guided through a structured process designed to help everyone grow. And if our current session is full, don't worry, we'll open additional circles to ensure everyone who wants this experience has a space.

Claim Your Spot at the Table

click the event to register

Can’t make it to the next event and want to stay in the loop?

Register here to receive invitations to upcoming circles.

Join Our Next Gathering

Upcoming Theme:

August Theme: Ripple Effects - keeping your greater purpose in mind as you evolve.

When we make business decisions, we're creating ripples that extend far beyond our immediate circle. This month we'll explore how your choices today shape tomorrow's opportunities, relationships, and impact in ways you might never expect. It's about recognising that every decision sends waves through your community, industry, and the lives you touch.

When your business is about more than profit margins, those ripple effects become even more powerful. At our August table, we'll share stories about unexpected consequences (both challenging and wonderful), celebrate the surprising connections that emerged from single decisions, and explore how being intentional about the ripples you create can guide your business evolution in beautiful directions.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Next Date: Tuesday May 13th, 10am-12pm

Location: Studio Croxton (near Croxton Station)

15 Spencer Street, Northcote

Investment: $25 (includes refreshments) or Pay What You Can (For accessibility or to sponsor another attendee.)

Booking fee is in addition as 100% goes to charity via Humantix.

Space is limited to 10 participants to ensure everyone can meaningfully contribute.