Local Life Leaders: Building Connections Through Community Involvement and Volunteering

Board Applications- Are they really necessary

Don’t Forget to Enter Our 10th-episode Giveaway! https://connect.locallifeleaders.com/opt-in-page
In this episode of the Local Life Leaders podcast, host Janessa Storlie discusses the relevance of board applications in today's evolving landscape. With a focus on community engagement and in-person interaction, Janessa challenges the traditional reliance on resumes and applications, advocating for a more personalized approach to board recruitment and nonprofit growth.
Episode Highlights:
Celebrating Milestones: Janessa marks the 10th episode of the podcast and expresses gratitude for the growing audience. She announces a giveaway for email subscribers, offering a Starbucks gift card to a lucky winner on July 15th.
The Changing Landscape: The discussion shifts to the increasing reliance on digital communication and the impact it has on community building. Janessa emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions and questions the effectiveness of board applications for smaller nonprofits.
Board Applications vs. Community Engagement: Janessa outlines the scenarios where board applications might be useful, such as for large, well-known nonprofits with limited board seats. However, she argues that for smaller organizations, a more hands-on approach involving networking, community events, and direct conversations is far more effective.
Building a Strong Board Culture: The episode emphasizes the importance of a strong board culture that aligns with the organization's mission, vision, and values. Janessa suggests that a passionate and committed board will naturally attract like-minded individuals who can contribute to the nonprofit's growth.
The 90/10 Rule: Janessa introduces the concept that 90% of board work should happen outside of board meetings, within the community, while only 10% should occur during formal meetings.
Taking Action: The episode concludes with a call to action for nonprofit leaders and board members to step away from their computer screens and engage directly with their communities. Janessa encourages them to initiate conversations, attend networking events, and build authentic relationships to identify potential board members and foster growth.
 
Quotes from Janessa:
 
"I honestly, to be honest with you, I really do not like the fact that we are at a point in time to where you have to judge a person based off of what they include on a resume."
"The more within our organizations that you can implement those one on one policies, those conversations, those in person settings, the more that your organization is going to thrive."
"You have to be out in the community talking about what you do within your nonprofit. You do not want to be the best kept secret."
Key Takeaways:
Board applications might not be necessary for all nonprofits, especially smaller ones with local reach.
Face-to-face interactions and community engagement are crucial for building strong board culture and attracting the right people.
The 90/10 rule highlights the importance of board members actively participating in their communities.
Nonprofits should prioritize building relationships and having open conversations to identify potential board members.
By being present and engaged in the community, nonprofits can overcome the dehumanizing effects of digital communication and foster genuine connections that drive growth.
Conclusion:
Janessa Storlie delivers a thought-provoking discussion on the relevance of board applications in the modern nonprofit landscape. She encourages a shift towards a more personalized and community-centric approach to board recruitment and emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships. The episode offers valuable insights for nonprofit leaders and board members seeking to strengthen their organizations and create a lasting impact in their communities.
 
Want even more community involvement goodness?
Check out our website! https://www.locallifeleaders.com/
DM Janessa over on IG! https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders/

Simplifying Your Messaging for Greater Impact

In this episode of Local Life Leaders, host Janessa Storlie addresses a common mistake among nonprofits and small businesses—unclear messaging. Janessa shares a straightforward formula to help organizations clarify their message, ensuring they can effectively advocate for their cause and attract their ideal audience. Whether you're running a nonprofit, a small business, or a community project, this episode offers valuable insights to elevate your communication strategies.
 
Key Topics Covered:
The Importance of Clear Messaging:
   - Many organizations struggle with unclear messaging, impacting their social media presence and advocacy efforts.
   - Simplifying your message can significantly boost your reach and impact.
 
Three-Part Messaging Formula:
   - Who You Serve: Be specific about your target audience and region.
   - How You Serve Them: Clearly outline your methods and services.
   - The Results: Describe the tangible outcomes and emotional benefits for your audience.
 
Creating an FAQ or Living Document:
   - Equip board members and volunteers with clear, concise messaging to advocate effectively.
   - Ensure your mission and vision are easily understandable to the general public.
 
Notable Quotes from Janessa:
"Learning about messaging is the number one way to catapult results in your business, in your nonprofit, in absolutely everything that you do."
"The more specific and clear that you can get in your statements and in your messaging, the easier that you are going to spread your impact."
"The last thing that I want for you as a nonprofit is for you to be the best-kept secret within a local community."
 
Actionable Tips:
- Use the formula: Who you serve + How you serve them + The results they get.
- Avoid industry-specific jargon and overly complex language.
- Develop a living document with messaging strategies and FAQs for your team.
Resources:
- Downloadable PDF: https://connect.locallifeleaders.com/opt-in-1414-2088
- Contact Janessa: DM Janessa on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders for personalized messaging advice.
 
Share This Episode:
If you know a nonprofit or small business that could benefit from this episode, please share it with them. Spread the word about the importance of clear messaging and help make a greater impact in your community.
 
Follow Us:
Stay connected with Local Life Leaders:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
- Website: https://www.locallifeleaders.com
 
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Local Life Leaders. Let's simplify our messages and amplify our impact!

Mastering Local Marketing Strategies

In this episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, host Janessa Storlie dives into the essentials of local marketing and advertising. Janessa shares her journey of growing her platform, "What's Happening," organically and offers valuable insights into effective marketing strategies that can help small businesses and nonprofits connect with their communities. Learn about the "Core Four" focuses that can drive your marketing success and discover actionable tips to enhance your local presence both online and offline.
 
Want to become part of the Local Marketing Secrets Newsletter? Sign Up Here- https://connect.whathaps.com/lms
 
Key Topics Covered:
Introduction to Local Marketing and Advertising:
   - Janessa's fascination with how people connect and the inspiration behind starting "What's Happening."
   - The importance of connection in the digital age and how it has evolved.
 
The "Core Four" Marketing Focuses:
   - Home Base: The importance of having a website, an email service provider, and a Google My Business listing.
   - Social Media: Why Facebook and Instagram are crucial for local businesses and tips for organic growth.
   - Print and Swag: Utilizing printed materials and branded merchandise to promote your business.
   - Partnerships: Building relationships and collaborating with other local businesses and organizations.
 
Practical Advice for Small Business Owners and Nonprofits:
   - Strategies to connect with customers, clients, and volunteers.
   - The significance of authenticity in branding and marketing efforts.
   - Overcoming the fear of rejection and embracing courage in your marketing initiatives.
 
Want to become part of the Local Marketing Secrets Newsletter? Sign Up Here- https://connect.whathaps.com/lms
 
Memorable Quotes from Janessa:
On the Importance of Connection:
   - "The primary reason why I started What's Happening is for it to be a platform of connection for everyone. I want to be able to have small business owners, nonprofits, community leaders connect with the communities that they are trying to improve the quality of life in."
 
On Marketing and Branding:
   - "Everything with this is it all comes down to branding. And the biggest part of branding is that it is a big reflection of you. You have to be okay with showcasing who you are."
 
On Partnerships and Collaboration:
   - "There's this phrase that I hear all the time and it says, 'If you've made it to the top and you've done it alone, you've done it all wrong.' And I think that is so crucial because I think it is very important for everyone to help other people."
 
Additional Resources:
- Local Marketing Secrets Newsletter: Sign up for Janessa's newsletter, which provides actionable marketing strategies every Monday. [Subscribe Here](#)
 
Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the Local Life Leaders Podcast and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us bring more valuable content to help you thrive in your local community.
 
Want to keep the conversation going? Head on over to Instagram and DM @locallifeleaders 
 
Want to become part of the Local Marketing Secrets Newsletter? Sign Up Here- https://connect.whathaps.com/lms
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Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast! Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep making a positive impact in your community.

Embracing Community Involvement with John Geyerman

In this inspiring episode of Local Life Leaders, Janessa Storlie sits down with her husband, John Geyerman, to discuss his extensive journey in volunteering and community involvement. From his early days in Phoenix, Arizona, to his current roles in Williston, North Dakota, and the North Dakota Council on the Arts, John shares his insights on making a difference in the community, the importance of arts, and maintaining a balance to avoid burnout. This episode is filled with practical advice and motivational stories that will encourage you to take action and engage with your local community.
 
Key Topics:
Introduction to John Geyerman:
   - Co-owner of What’s Happening in Williston
   - Background in biochemistry and extensive experience in community involvement
 
John’s Volunteering Journey:
   - Transition from Phoenix to Williston
   - Initial inspiration from his grandfather
   - Experience with Stand Up for Kids in Phoenix
 
Community Involvement in Williston:
   - Involvement with Williston Camera Club, James Memorial Art Center, and Williston Downtowners Association
   - Role in the North Dakota Council on the Arts
   - The Arts Across the Prairie Project
 
Key Takeaways for Volunteers and Leaders:
   - The importance of setting boundaries and managing conflict
   - Following through on commitments
   - Understanding and leveraging community networks
 
Creating and Sustaining Community Culture:
   - Community Heroes, 
   - Rites and rituals
   - Shared networks
   - Values and Ideals
 
Quotes from John Geyerman:
"I think what it comes down to is that I'm willing to try, put myself out there, and have these experiences. I take the best lessons from them and apply what I learned to better myself and whatever I'm trying to accomplish."
"I wanted to show them that there are people out there that can help, that do care, and that if you're willing, you can change your circumstances."
"Being a leader is a privilege. It doesn't designate you above any work. Know yourself, be honest, and find balance in your commitments."
 
Engage with us! 
Share this episode with friends and family who are passionate about community involvement.
Follow John Geyerman on Facebook and Instagram (@JKGeyerman) to keep up with his community work and photography.
Visit the Local Life Leaders website https://locallifeleaders.com for more resources and inspiration on how to make a positive impact in your community.
 
Connect with Us:
- Host: @locallifeleaders on Instagram
- Guest: John Geyerman (@JKGeyerman on Facebook and Instagram)

The Essential Post-Event Checklist

In this episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, host Janessa Storlie shares her insights on the crucial steps to take after an event concludes. Drawing from her recent experience with two major events, Janessa discusses the importance of post-event activities to ensure a smooth transition and set the stage for future successes. Tune in for a detailed checklist, personal anecdotes, and actionable tips that every event planner should implement.
Download The Post Event Process Checklist! https://connect.locallifeleaders.com/opt-in-1414-3451
Main Topics Covered:
- Personal reflection and recovery after an event
- Organizing and inventory management
- Conducting after-action reports and SOAR analysis
- Gathering and utilizing feedback
- Sending personalized thank-you notes
 
Key Quotes:
"When you are able to enjoy the event, that just helps build up that motivation for you to continue on for the next year."
"Conducting a SOAR analysis with your team is extremely important as it connects you to the vision of what you actually want this event to be."
"Sending out thank you cards is a very huge and important step to show your appreciation to everyone involved."
 
Post-Event Checklist:
Rest and Recovery:
   - Take time to relax and heal after the event.
   - Reconnect with your routine and focus on self-care.
 
Inventory Management:
   - Take inventory of leftover supplies.
   - Store items appropriately for next year.
   - Use tools like Notion, Google Docs, or Excel to track inventory.
 
After-Action Report:
   - Journal your thoughts on what went well and areas for improvement.
   - Share your report with team members for a comprehensive review.
 
SOAR Analysis:
   - Conduct a SOAR (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, Results) analysis with your team.
   - Use this to align with the vision and goals for future events.
 
Feedback Collection:
   - Collect feedback from participants through surveys.
   - Note down verbal feedback received during and after the event.
 
Thank-You Notes:
   - Send personalized thank-you cards or gifts to volunteers, vendors, and sponsors.
   - Acknowledge everyone’s contribution to the event's success.
Don’t forget to download our free guides, including the post-event checklist, after-action report template, and SOAR analysis worksheet, at https://locallifeleaders.com. Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/LocalLifeLeaders for more updates, tips, and community stories. Share your biggest takeaways from this episode, and let us know how you handle post-event processes!

Navigating Event Week: Stress, Support, and Self-Care

In this impromptu and heartfelt episode, Janessa Storlie dives deep into the rollercoaster of emotions experienced during event week. With two major events on the horizon, Janessa shares her personal journey, the stress and anxiety involved, and offers valuable insights and strategies to manage the mental, emotional, and physical challenges that come with organizing events.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Reality of Event Week: Janessa shares the highs and lows of preparing for major events, including feelings of stress, anxiety, and the pressure to perform.
Managing Stress and Anxiety: Practical tips for dealing with the intense emotions of event planning, including the importance of self-care and setting boundaries.
Mental Health Strategies: Janessa discusses the value of meditation, breathwork, and using supportive apps and programs to maintain mental wellness.
Self-Worth and Success: Encouragement to recognize that your worth is not tied to the outcome of an event, and the importance of self-compassion during stressful times.
 
Notable Quotes:
"Event week is going to be a rollercoaster of emotions. You are going to have moments where you feel extremely grateful and joyful, and moments where you feel like you're gonna pull all of your hair out."
"You are your most valuable asset. You have to take care of you, even if it's event week."
"Your worth and your success is not based off of the outcome of an event."
Resources Mentioned:
- Headspace: A meditation and mindfulness app to help manage stress and anxiety. https://www.headspace.com/
- To Be Magnetic: A program focusing on deep self-work and journaling.https://tobemagnetic.com/
- Self Coaching Society by Susie Moore: Provides positive mentorship and masterclasses on overcoming mental blocks. Check out the link for 70% off! https://go.susie-moore.com/t?orid=229545&opid=91
 
Call to Action:
Feeling overwhelmed during event week? Remember, you are not alone. Connect with Janessa and the Local Life Leaders community for support and encouragement. Follow us on Instagram at @LocalLifeLeaders and share your thoughts on this episode. Download and keep this episode handy for those tough times when you need a reminder that you are enough.
 
Website: https://www.locallifeleaders.com/
 
Stay tuned for more episodes of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, where we continue to share stories, tips, and strategies to help you thrive in your community efforts. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast platform!

Embracing Leadership: Understanding Your Role and Impact

In the fourth episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, host Janessa Storlie dives deep into the topic of leadership. She challenges traditional notions of leadership, emphasizing the evolving nature of leadership roles and the importance of servant leadership. Janessa provides insights on how everyone can be a leader by leveraging their unique skills and serving others. She also discusses the connection between leadership and responsibility and how to navigate mistakes with honesty and solutions.
 
Key Topics:
Introduction to Leadership
   - Redefining leadership beyond the traditional leader-follower dynamic.
   - The evolution of leadership into a team-oriented and servant leadership model.
 
The Essence of Leadership
   - Emphasizing that leadership is about helping and serving others.
   - Encouraging listeners to recognize and utilize their unique skills.
 
Leadership and Responsibility
   - The importance of owning mistakes and being accountable.
   - Focusing on solutions rather than problems.
 
Examples and Practical Tips
   - Real-life examples of leadership in action within community settings.
   - Practical advice for embracing leadership roles and responsibilities.
 
Encouragement and Inspiration
   - Reframing the perception of leadership to alleviate fears.
   - Promoting a team-oriented mindset and consistent action for positive change.
 
Key Quotes from Janessa Storlie:
"Leadership is just about helping people. Leadership is about serving other people. That's it."
"Leadership is not some big broad aspect thing that you have to be a master at everything. Leadership is just understanding what you are great at and how it fits into the group setting."
"Change takes time. Change is not immediate. We have to get that instant gratification outside of our brain and really begin to understand that through consistent action, we can make long-lasting change and impact."
 
Resources and Links:
- Follow https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
- Visit https://locallifeleaders.com for more resources
Call to Action:
- Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes on community leadership.
- Share this episode with other local leaders who could benefit from these insights.
- Engage with us on social media and join the conversation about making a positive impact in your community.
 
Thank You Message:
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Local Life Leaders. We hope you feel inspired and empowered to make a difference in your community. Stay connected and keep the inspiration flowing by exploring our resources and sharing this podcast with others. Let's build a community of leaders dedicated to positive change!
 
Contact Information:
- Host: Janessa Storlie
- Email: janessa@whathaps.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
 
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Be sure to listen to the full episode to get all the insights and inspiration from Janessa's journey and learn how you can make a lasting impact in your local community!

What is Positive Change and Impact?

In the third episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, host Janessa Storlie explores the definition of positive change and how small, consistent actions can lead to significant impacts in our communities. She shares insights from her own journey, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, connection, and perseverance. Janessa provides practical tips for identifying and implementing actions that align with one's passions and skills, ultimately creating a lasting positive ripple effect.
 
Download The Volunteer Alginment Guide- https://connect.locallifeleaders.com/opt-in-1414
Key Topics:
Introduction to Positive Change
   - Understanding the concept of positive change as consistent action.
   - The importance of taking authentic steps to impact the community.
 
Janessa’s Personal Journey
   - Creating What's Happening in Williston and its growth.
   - The impact of consistent weekly posts on community engagement.
 
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
   - Using Maslow’s framework to identify areas for positive change.
   - Connecting people to activities that fulfill essential human needs.
 
Practical Tips for Positive Change
   - Analyzing personal skills and passions to find the best ways to contribute.
   - Importance of small, consistent actions in creating a significant impact.
   - Examples of how consistent actions lead to positive ripple effects.
 
Encouragement and Inspiration
   - Understanding that change takes time and perseverance.
   - Encouraging listeners to find their unique way of making a difference.
 
Key Quotes from Janessa Storlie:
"You are your most valuable asset and it is so important for you to take care of you and for you to put yourself into positions where you feel like you can succeed."
"Leadership is just about helping other people. The more you take aligned action towards whatever you are passionate about, the more you can help others and show up as an effective leader within your community."
"Change takes time. Change is not immediate. We have to get that instant gratification outside of our brain and really begin to understand that through consistent action, we can make long-lasting change and impact."
 
Resources and Links:
- Follow https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
- Visit https://locallifeleaders.com for more resources
Call to Action:
- Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes on community leadership.
- Share this episode with other local leaders who could benefit from these insights.
- Engage with us on social media and join the conversation about making a positive impact in your community.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Local Life Leaders. We hope you feel inspired and empowered to make a difference in your community. Stay connected and keep the inspiration flowing by exploring our resources and sharing this podcast with others. Let's build a community of leaders dedicated to positive change!
 
Contact Information:
- Host: Janessa Storlie
- Email: janessa@whathaps.com
- Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
 
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Be sure to listen to the full episode to get all the insights and inspiration from Janessa's journey and learn how you can make a lasting impact in your local community!

The Holistic Approach to Community Involvement

In the second episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, host Janessa Storlie delves into the concept of a holistic approach to community involvement. Drawing from her extensive experience in volunteering and community leadership, Janessa discusses the importance of self-care, aligning volunteer efforts with personal passions, and the benefits of efficiency. She provides actionable tips for both new and seasoned volunteers to help them make meaningful contributions to their communities without experiencing burnout.
 
Key Topics:
Introduction to Local Life Leaders Podcast
   - Mission: Equip listeners to positively impact their local communities while avoiding burnout.
   - Janessa’s goal: Share her experiences and interview community heroes from across the U.S.
 
The Holistic Approach to Community Involvement
   - Importance of self-care and avoiding burnout.
   - Aligning volunteer work with personal passions and skills.
 
Janessa’s Volunteering Journey
   - Experience in various community organizations.
   - Creation of What's Happening in Williston and its impact.
 
Practical Tips for Effective Volunteering
   - Be intentional about the missions you support.
   - Recognize and utilize your unique gifts and skills.
   - Experiment with different roles to find what you enjoy.
 
Learning from Community Leaders
   - Observing and emulating successful community leaders.
   - Understanding the culture, mission, and operations of organizations.
 
Creating Positive Change
   - Importance of collaboration over competition.
   - Embracing a structured and efficient approach to community work.
 
Key Quotes from Janessa Storlie:
"You are your most valuable asset and it is so important for you to take care of you and for you to put yourself into positions where you feel like you can succeed."
"Your time is so important. It is the most valuable asset. And when you are volunteering, you should be working with organizations that understand that and really want to take care of you."
"Leadership is just about helping other people. The more you take aligned action towards whatever you are passionate about, the more you can help others and show up as an effective leader within your community."
 
Resources and Links:
- Follow https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
- Visit https://locallifeleaders.com for more resources
- Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes on community leadership.
- Share this episode with other local leaders who could benefit from these insights.
- Engage with us on social media and join the conversation about making a positive impact in your community.
Thank you for tuning in to the first episode of Local Life Leaders. We hope you feel inspired and empowered to make a difference in your community. Stay connected and keep the inspiration flowing by exploring our resources and sharing this podcast with others. Let's build a community of leaders dedicated to positive change!
 
Contact Information:
- Host: Janessa Storlie
- Email: janessa@whathaps.com
- Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
 
 
Be sure to listen to the full episode to get all the insights and inspiration from Janessa's journey and learn how you can make a lasting impact in your local community!

Welcome to the Local Life Leaders Podcast

In the inaugural episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, host Janessa Storlie introduces the purpose and mission of the podcast: to equip listeners with the knowledge and tools needed to positively impact their local communities. Janessa shares her personal journey of community involvement, from the growing pains of Williston, North Dakota, to the establishment of her platform, What's Happening in Williston. She emphasizes the importance of authentic and structured community engagement, avoiding burnout, and taking aligned actions.
 
Key Topics:
Introduction to Local Life Leaders Podcast 
  - Mission: Equip listeners to make a positive impact on their local communities.
   - Holistic approach to community involvement to avoid burnout.
 
Janessa’s Background and Journey
   - Growing up in Williston, ND, and experiencing the oil boom.
   - Volunteering and involvement in various community organizations.
   - Challenges and frustrations with disorganized efforts and burnout.
 
Creating What's Happening in Williston
   - Starting a community platform to share information and connect residents.
   - Growth and impact of the platform on local engagement.
 
Authentic Community Involvement
   - Importance of showing up authentically and leveraging unique gifts.
   - Avoiding the "yes man" cycle and focusing on meaningful contributions.
 
Efficient and Effective Community Engagement
   - Need for structure, purpose, and ROI in community efforts.
   - Janessa's passion for efficiency and systems to enhance community work.
 
Future Episodes and Interviews
   - Highlighting change-makers and community heroes across the United States.
   - Sharing best practices, tools, and systems for effective community involvement.
 
Resources and Links:
- Follow https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders
- Visit locallifeleaders.com for more resources
Call to Action:
- Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes on community leadership.
- Share this episode with other local leaders who could benefit from these insights.
- Engage with us on social media and join the conversation about making a positive impact in your community.
 
Quote from the Episode:
"Leadership is just about helping other people. The more you take aligned action towards whatever you are passionate about, the more you can help others and show up as an effective leader within your community." - Janessa Storlie
 
Thank You Message:
Thank you for tuning in to the first episode of Local Life Leaders. We hope you feel inspired and empowered to make a difference in your community. Stay connected and keep the inspiration flowing by exploring our resources and sharing this podcast with others. Let's build a community of leaders dedicated to positive change!
 
Contact Information:
- Host: Janessa Storlie
- Email: info@locallifeleaders.com
- Instagram: [@locallifeleaders](https://www.instagram.com/locallifeleaders)