rConnect is Spokane’s homegrown events platform dedicated to strengthening our local business community. We bring together entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals through thoughtfully curated programs that blend networking, education, and mentorship.
r Story
Born from the belief that Spokane’s best ideas happen when people connect face-to-face, rConnect launched as a series of small meetups in 2024. After seeing how these gatherings sparked collaborations and growth, we expanded into five flagship programs—Journey to Growth, Learn to Grow, Mastermind Connect, Business Spotlight, and the Spokane Professional Network. Today, we host in-person events across the city, always with the goal of fueling local success.
Meet rTeam
Founder / rConnector
rConnect
Shawn Lloyd is the driving force behind rConnect and a seasoned mortgage professional with over 15 years of experience in client advocacy, program matching, and team leadership. A graduate of Barrett Financial Group’s rigorous training pipeline, he’s held roles ranging from teller to team leader, advising families across all 50 states on tailored financing solutions. Known for his integrity-driven approach and passion for community-building, Shawn launched rConnect to create a space where Spokane’s entrepreneurs and professionals can learn from one another, forge genuine relationships, and accelerate their growth.
Co-founder / rConnector
rConnect
Nicholas Allard is a filmmaker-turned-community builder who founded Theta State Studios in 2016 after earning his film degree. Inspired by early creative experiments and the rise of digital storytelling, he pivoted to strategic video content—producing everything from commercials to long-form brand narratives. As rConnect’s co-founder, Nick leverages his expertise in multimedia and events to craft engaging experiences that spark collaboration and spotlight local innovators. His philosophy—“clear is better than clever, and done is better than perfect”—underpins every rConnect program, ensuring each gathering delivers practical insights and lasting connections.
rConnector
Barry Fresh Designs
Lindsey Barry is the creative force behind Barry Fresh Designs and a skilled branding professional with a background in both graphic design and marketing. With an A.A.S. in Graphic Design and a B.A. in Marketing, she blends artistic talent with strategic thinking to help businesses craft clear, cohesive brand identities. At rConnect, Lindsey plays a key role in elevating the visual presence of the community—designing customized branding, unique promotional products, and marketing materials that reflect the spirit and professionalism of its members. Known for her eye for detail and passion for helping others stand out, Lindsey ensures that everything from rConnect’s print materials to its digital presence makes a strong and lasting impression.
rConnector
Prima Vista Solutions
Geremy Kniffen is the Marketing Specialist and Business Spotlight Director at rConnect. He brings nearly two decades of experience in marketing, operations, and business development. As the founder of Prima Vista Solutions, he helps small businesses grow through targeted direct mail and strategic outreach. At rConnect, Geremy leads member features through the Business Spotlight program and supports community growth with thoughtful, results-driven marketing that reflects his commitment to helping others succeed.
rConnector
Success Without Sacrifice
Cheree Sauer is a national speaker, CEO of Success Without Sacrifice, and creator of the RAMP Method™—a proven system that helps high-performing entrepreneurs and leaders achieve sustainable success without burnout. With a Master’s in Sports Psychology and over two decades working with high performing athletes and entrepreneurs, Cheree brings a rare blend of performance science and real-life wisdom to the stage. Her background as a career woman, business owner, and mom who overcame burnout fuels her passion for helping others find peace, purpose, and performance—without the pressure.
rConnector
delvechio designs.
Patrick Delvechio is the founder of Delvechio Designs and a hybrid designer-developer and marketer with an A.A.S. in Graphic Design and dual certificates in Web Development and UX/UI. Over five years in B2B marketing, he has paired clean code with clear visuals to launch high-performing websites, brand systems, and automated workflows for Fortune 500 teams and emerging ventures alike. Within rConnect, Patrick brings end-to-end digital know-how—shaping brand standards, refining the online experience, and advising on technology so the community’s voice stays consistent, professional, and easy to find. His focus on practical solutions and measurable impact helps rConnect members showcase their work with confidence across every touchpoint.
