What if the platform you've been using casually is actually your most powerful growth engine? In this episode, Mike sits down with Eli Igra Serfaty, co-founder and CEO of MAIA Digital, one of the world's leading LinkedIn growth agencies. MAIA helps B2B founders and executives turn visibility into real trust, relationships, and revenue. With a background in venture capital and deep roots in Israel's startup ecosystem, Eli brings a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective on how influence is actually built in today's professional world. Eli walks through his journey from venture capital at iAngels to founding MAIA Digital after spotting a critical gap: brilliant founders and executives were on LinkedIn, but they weren't truly using it. What began as a job-hunting platform has quietly evolved into one of the most powerful tools for credibility, connection, and long-term business growth, especially following Microsoft's acquisition, which fundamentally reshaped the ecosystem. This conversation goes far beyond tactics. Eli breaks down why visibility matters, why most people overthink posting, and how consistent, authentic engagement turns cold audiences into warm conversations. He explains what actually works on LinkedIn today, from content formats and storytelling to outreach strategies that build trust rather than burn bridges. You'll also hear practical guidance on using LinkedIn without letting it consume your life: what to do daily, weekly, and monthly to generate real returns. Eli shares why authenticity beats automation, why vulnerability builds stronger communities, and why playing the long game on LinkedIn pays off in ways most people underestimate. IN THIS EPISODE: ➡️LINKEDIN REIMAGINED: How the platform evolved from job board to trust-building growth engine ➡️VISIBILITY WITHOUT PERFECTION: Why consistency beats overthinking and polished personas ➡️OUTREACH THAT ACTUALLY WORKS: Turning cold connections into warm, human conversations ➡️AUTHENTICITY THAT COMPOUNDS: Building long-term influence through real engagement and community 📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY: LinkedIn success isn't about hacking the algorithm or posting more than everyone else; it's about showing up as a real human, consistently. When you stop treating LinkedIn like a sales tool and start using it as a relationship-building platform, trust compounds quietly, opportunities find you faster, and growth becomes a byproduct rather than the goal. 🚀 PERFECT FOR: Founders, executives, or professionals who know that LinkedIn works but aren't fully utilizing it yet. This episode offers a clear and grounded roadmap for building influence that actually lasts. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future Connect with Eli & MAIA Digital: Eli's LinkedIn MAIA Digital MAIA LinkedIn MAIA YouTube Connect with Mike: Linktree SPONSORS: Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast AFFILIATES: Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? Email [email protected] Copyright © 2026 Mike'D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]