Friendship Machines: Gina Phillips, Director of Operations, Pickle at the Palms

Gina Phillips grew up in a family of introverts. When they went out to eat, everyone brought a book. As a kid, she was shy and had hearing problems. Making friends didn't come naturally. But if she made the thing happen, she had a role to play. She still calls herself your friendly neighborhood introvert. Gina won't be the life of the party, but she'll make sure it happens.

That carried her from founding Seattle Startup Week to WeWork, where she led global member experience. Her training for community teams included a rule Chumstock fans will recognize: a line is an opportunity. If people are waiting in front of you, introduce them to each other.

Now she's bringing all of it to Pickle at the Palms, a 20-court indoor pickleball center in Seattle's Interbay neighborhood. She's hiring for warmth.

Gina's big goal for the decade isn't a full house. It's a wedding. She wants couples to meet at the Palms and she's gunning for the Best Matchmaker trophy!

At the Chamber, Charlotte closes out the summer, making noises at her baby niece at the Colorado cabin. Aaron pitches a quick pickling station at Pickle at the Palms, brine, jars and all.

00:00 Introduction

00:29 Catching Up

03:50 Meet Gina Phillips

08:47 Scaling Beyond Events

17:32 Gina's Origin Story

21:39 Community Building at WeWork

27:45 Inside Pickle at the Palms