This month marks six years since I started my business, Expand Coaching and Consulting, which has recently evolved into Expand with Libby.

In that time, I’ve coached hundreds of leaders, facilitated workshops with teams across industries, sat in the middle of difficult conversations, celebrated breakthroughs, and learned from thousands of people who have trusted me with their stories.

If you had asked me six years ago what I’d know by now, I probably would have listed frameworks, strategies, or leadership techniques.

Instead, the biggest thing I’ve gained is something much simpler.

I’ve changed my mind.

Not because I was wrong. Because I kept learning.

Leadership has a way of challenging the beliefs we hold most tightly. Every conversation, every success, every failure, every relationship has the opportunity to reshape how we see ourselves and others if we’re willing to stay curious.

Here are a few of the beliefs I’ve outgrown along the way.

I used to think the best leaders had all the answers.
Now I think the best leaders ask better questions.

I used to think conflict meant something was wrong.
Now I believe avoiding conflict is what keeps people, teams, and organizations stuck.

I used to think self-awareness was personal work.
Now I see it as one of the greatest gifts you can give the people around you.

I used to think people resisted change because they were difficult.
Now I realize they’re often protecting something that once helped them succeed.

I used to think communication was about saying the right thing.
Now I believe it’s about helping someone else feel understood.

I used to think leadership meant carrying more.
Now I think it often means creating space for others to carry it with you.

I used to think growth was about becoming someone different.
Now I believe it’s about becoming more fully yourself while letting go of the patterns that no longer serve you.

And maybe my favorite…

I used to think my job was to help people discover their Enneagram type.
Now I think my job is to help people understand themselves so deeply that they lead, communicate, collaborate, and care for others with greater intention.

At VIA, we talk often about empowering women, building community, and creating spaces where people can grow together.

None of those things happen because we have everything figured out.

They happen because we’re willing to listen, to question our assumptions, to learn from one another, and sometimes…to change our minds.

That’s not weakness.

That’s leadership.

As I celebrate six years of this work, I’m grateful not just for what I’ve learned, but for what I’ve been willing to unlearn.

So I’ll leave you with the same question I’ve been asking myself lately:

What belief are you holding onto simply because it’s familiar, not because it’s still serving you?

You might be surprised what changes when you’re willing to let the answer evolve.

Libby Cole

Not “busy day” hard. Not “long week” hard. I mean the kind of hard where everything feels like it’s all on your shoulders at once. You’re making decisions all day long, solving problems no one else sees, trying to hold it all together…when when you’re not totally sure what the right move is. And the truth is, nobody really prepares you for that part.

Our community thrives when we work together. Every day, we have a unique opportunity to break down existing silos and build a more connected and prosperous environment for all to thrive. Trust that women entrepreneurs are leading the way.

Above: VIA Connects 2024 Speakers and Team

Nationally, women-owned businesses are 1.7 times more likely than their male counterparts to prioritize community-oriented goals. This focus on collaboration and long-term solutions makes them powerful catalysts for positive change in the Golden Isles.

The Power of Reinvestment

The impact of women entrepreneurs extends beyond their businesses. Studies show they reinvest more of their income back into their communities, strengthening local economies and creating a positive ripple effect. This reinvestment is vital for the continued growth and prosperity of our region.

How We Can Support Women Entrepreneurs

What can we do to support these vital contributors to our community? We can:

• Promote networking and mentorship opportunities: Connecting women entrepreneurs and women in business fosters collaboration and growth.
• “Shop local”: Whether you are looking for groceries to buy, a gift, a class to take, a service, or an organization to support, think farmers’ markets, local stores, cafés, boutiques, or services.
• Support access to resources and funding: Ensuring women have the resources they need to start and grow their businesses is crucial.
• Celebrate successes: Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women entrepreneurs inspires others and reinforces their value to the community. Follow them on social media, stop by, or spread the word to support them.

By actively uplifting women entrepreneurs, we are investing in a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous Golden Isles for everyone.

For many of us, the world feels like it never stops. Endless obligations, constant notifications, and the pull to be everything to everyone can leave us feeling stretched thin. Even moments of rest can feel incomplete, as if we’re just waiting for the next demand to arrive.

But what if we gave ourselves permission to step out of the frenzy? What if we chose to honor our own need for stillness, a slower pace, creativity, and connection?

The Necessity of Nourishment
Nourishment for the soul isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. And yet, it’s one of the first things we overlook when life gets busy. True sustenance doesn’t just feed our bodies; it supports our spirits. It’s found in the quiet moments when we allow ourselves to simply be.

For women, especially, finding space for this kind of care can feel revolutionary. It means acknowledging that we deserve time for ourselves, that our worth is not tied to productivity, and that tending to our inner lives is a powerful act of self-love.

When we intentionally engage with soulful renewal, we honor the whole of who we are—our bodies, minds, and spirits. We create space for clarity, healing, and the creativity that so often gets buried beneath the noise of everyday life.

Creating Your Own Sacred Space
Reconnecting with yourself doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s about small, intentional acts that remind you of your worth for WHO YOU ARE and help you return to center.

• A Sacred Pause: Set aside five minutes each day to simply sit with your breath. Let the act of breathing in and out remind you that you are alive, present, and enough.
• A Moment Outdoors: Step outside, no matter the season. Feel the air on your skin, notice the light, and let the natural world grounds you.
• A Creative Spark: Give yourself permission to create without judgment. Sketch, journal, write a few words, or simply arrange objects in a way that feels beautiful to you.
• A Ritual of Care: Prepare a nourishing drink or meal, not out of obligation but as a way to honor yourself. Savor each sip or bite, feeling gratitude for the moment of care you’ve allowed yourself.

These practices may seem simple, but their impact can be profound. They remind us that we are sovereign beings, worthy of time, attention, and care.

The Power of Community
Being a part of VIA, you know that, sometimes, the most nourishing spaces are the ones we share. Gathering with like-minded women to explore creativity, connection, and self-discovery can be deeply healing. It reminds us that we are not alone in our desire for something more intentional, something sacred. By coming together, we create a circle of support—a place where we can rest, reflect, and rediscover the power within ourselves.

For those seeking to go deeper…
If you’re yearning for a meaningful way to reconnect with yourself and the rhythms of the natural world, I invite you to join me in Sacred Turning: A Creative Journey Through Nature’s Cycles. This year-long exploration is designed to help you slow down, ignite your creativity, and align with the Earth’s seasons in ways that nourish your soul. Because you deserve a space to breathe, a space to create, and a space to truly honor yourself.

In the spirit of vulnerability, I wanted to share a poem I wrote with you. As a female Enneagram 8, I tend to relate more to dark feminine traits rather than the lighter, more stereotypical traits of women. And this poem was born of a conversation around just that… Also an intentional lean toward tapping into my creativity.

Recently, Libby Cole, VIA’s Secretary, favorite Emcee, and all-around uplifting force, was interviewed by Joe Dimino. During their conversation, Libby was asked some thought-provoking questions. She found them so valuable that she shared them with her enneagram community. I have added Omkari Williams’ inspiring questions to micro-activists from her book Micro Activism.
These questions offer insights into self-reflection and help us understand our relationship with our community. Let’s see if you can give them a shot!

• How would you explain what you do to a 3rd grader?
• What did you want to be when you were a 3rd grader?
• What events in your childhood led you to where you are now?
• Who is your hero?
• If you could pick someone living to have a conversation with, who would it be?
• What gets you out of bed in the morning?
• What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
• What are you proudest of?
• What is your perception of yourself aside from what others think of you?

From Omkari Williams book Micro Activism, Storey Publishing:

• What goal are you working toward?
• What motivates you?
• How do you find and build community?
• Who are your role models?
• What keeps you going when things are hard?
• Do you have an intentional practice 0f self-care?

I encourage you to take a moment to answer these questions for yourself and share your own thought-provoking prompts here.

More about Expand, Libby’s Coaching & Consulting business here.
Find Libby’s interview with Joe Dimiro here.
Find Omkari Williams’ book here.

In our last VIA Entrepreneurs Circle, we asked attendees to share the three best tips they have received. Below are those gems.

• Allow yourself a day off at least every seven days, especially if your business is in your home!

• Always remember your “Why”!

• Ask for help and pay for experts in areas that are not your strength.

• Attend events and meetings even if you are not sure you belong.

• Be authentic!

• Be honest. Awkward conversations are better than passive aggressions.

• Be your biggest cheerleader.

• Breathe, it will work out.

• Build your support system.

• If it’s not broken, don’t fix it!

• Instead of always resorting to “crisis mode,” determine what “crisis” means to your business and then, only then, go into crisis mode.

• It’s all about creating systems and still not discounting your magic.

• Know your audience. Your product or service is not for everyone but it is for someone and that’s your audience.

• Love your field (skills, etc.) so you present with energy and light.

• Make time for play and creativity!

• No matter where you are, network, network, network, and do so happily, attitude is important.

• Say a daily affirmation every morning and post it near you.

• Stay current in your field.

• Stay positive to bring this energy into your life.

• Take notes on every conversation.

• Talk to similar businesses outside your city for ideas and help. This will feel less competitive and they may give you great ideas.

Thank you to all who attended and thank you Kathy for hosting at your beautiful Makers, 1214 Newcastle
Historic Downtown Brunswick. 

The Role of Community in Entrepreneurial Success.
Let’s face it: entrepreneurship can be a lonely road. You’re juggling a million tasks, facing countless uncertainties, and often feeling like you’re talking to yourself, your cat, or your plants. A strong community is essential to support your entrepreneurial journey.

Why Community Matters

Think of it this way: a supportive community is like your own personal cheering squad, sounding board, and brain trust all rolled into one. It’s where you can:

• Find your tribe: Connect with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and joys of entrepreneurship.
• Share the load: Get advice, feedback, and encouragement from people who’ve been there, done that.
• Celebrate wins (and learn from setbacks): Mark those milestones and gain valuable insights from others’ experiences.
• Collaborate and create: Spark new ideas and partnerships that can take your business to the next level.

How VIA Connects Fosters Community

At VIA Connects, we’re more than just a networking group; we’re a vibrant community of entrepreneurs who believe in the power of connection and collaboration. Here’s how we help foster a sense of belonging:

• VIA Entrepreneurs Network: We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of every month, September to May, unless otherwise indicated, from 5:15-6:30 p.m., to connect, celebrate each other’s successes, and lift each other.
• Meaningful Events: Check our calendar page to learn more about our next Leadership and Wellness Workshop.
• Mentorship: Pair up with experienced entrepreneurs who can provide guidance and support.

Are you a solopreneur feeling the weight of running your business alone? If you sometimes feel isolated, you’re not alone. Many women-owned businesses face the challenge of finding the support and the energy they need to continue the journey. Here are some practical tips for breaking free from the chains of solopreneurship.

1. Seek Out Networking Events
   These events provide valuable opportunities to share ideas, learn from others, and build meaningful relationships.
   Check Facebook events or sign up for local calendars such as discoverbrunswick.com

2. Join Online Communities: Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook Groups, and industry-specific forums offer resources, support, and networking opportunities, industry-specific or not.

3. Invest in Professional Development: Continue investing in your personal and professional development. Attend our Executive workshops (Calendar here), join The Lucas Center Acceler8 Program (The Lucas Center for Entrepreneurship), attend seminars, and online courses to meet your peers, enhance your skills, expand your knowledge, and stay ahead of industry trends.
   Some offer free courses: GoogleGrow, edx.org, udemy.com,  coursera.org

4. Seek Mentorship: Reach out to more experienced entrepreneurs or industry leaders for guidance and mentorship. A mentor can provide invaluable advice, support, and encouragement as you navigate the challenges of solopreneurship. 
   Contact us or reach out to Dr. Ande Notes, Executive Director of The Lucas Center for Entrepreneurship, and mention VIA Connects!

5. Join VIA Circles, our supportive community of women entrepreneurs: Held every third Wednesday at Makers (1214 Newcastle Street, 5-6 pm), our VIA Circles offer a welcoming space where solopreneurs come together to share their experiences, insights, and challenges.
   Check our calendar here.

Ready to break free from solopreneurship? Join us at our next VIA Circle and take the first step towards finding the support and community you need to thrive. We can’t wait to welcome you into our community.

As we gear up for VIA Connects Conference 2024, we’re thrilled to unveil the theme that will guide our journey: “Radiate.” This word encapsulates the very essence of what we aim to achieve—a celebration of brilliance, of empowerment, and a commitment to illuminate the extraordinary within each of us. Let’s fill up our cups.

Why “Radiate”?

In a world often bustling with noise and chaos, we believe it’s crucial to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the innate brilliance that resides within every individual. “Radiate” is not just a theme; it’s a call to action—an invitation to let your light shine, unapologetically and brilliantly.

Empowering Brilliance:

At our VIA Connects 2023 Conference, at our VIA Circles, our networking groups and workshops, then again at the Womxn of The Year Awards Celebration, we’ve witnessed the power that comes alive when individuals embrace their uniqueness and radiate their authentic selves. Each story shared, every moment of connection, and every spark of inspiration adds to the collective energy that defines our community.

Unity in Diversity:

“Radiate” is also a celebration of the diversity that makes our community vibrant and dynamic. Our differences create a beautiful tapestry when illuminated by the collective power of our community.

Why Now?

As we step into 2024, the theme “Radiate” serves as a guiding star, reminding us to amplify our strengths, embrace our authenticity, and collectively create a positive impact. In a world that can sometimes feel dim, we choose to radiate positivity, empowerment, and the unwavering belief that every individual has a unique voice to share.

Join us on March 9th, 2024, as we’ll come together to celebrate, inspire, and radiate brilliance. Your story, your journey, and your light—each one adds to the collective glow that makes VIA Connects also unique.

Let’s Radiate together!

Photo: Drew Coffman