We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Stefanie LaHart a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Stefanie, you’ve got such an interesting story, but before we jump into that, let’s first talk about a topic near and dear to us – generosity. We think success, happiness and wellbeing depends on authentic generosity and empathy and so we’d love to hear about how you become such a generous person – where do you think your generosity comes from?
The seeds of my generosity were sown early. Witnessing my mother’s dedication to helping others through the church’s Christmas Giving Tree instilled in me the joy of giving. Later, when a close friend battled breast cancer, her fight ignited a fire within me, leading to the birth of Busted Foundation. This wasn’t just about sympathy; it was about channeling the power of collective action to make a difference.
But generosity isn’t a solo act. I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by individuals who embody it – from my father mentoring young entrepreneurs to my sister rescuing animals. Witnessing their impact fueled my desire to pay it forward within my own agency, uplifting colleagues and empowering interns. It’s not just about business; it’s about recognizing the shared humanity that binds us and choosing to make the world a brighter place, one act of kindness at a time.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Forget nine-to-five, I built Boomtown Marketing to revolutionize digital marketing for businesses: fueling their growth and scaling their dreams. My mission? Craft online conversations that convert to real-world customers, both for myself and my clients.
Digital marketing strategist – isn’t that a sexy job title? I followed my passion, built a career I love, and embraced the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship. Throw in an ever-evolving creative industry, and you’ve got a recipe for pure career bliss.
But wait, it’s not all sunshine and engagement bars. The ever-changing landscape demands constant learning – new tools, new trends, or risk missing out on the next big social surge.
That’s where the reward kicks in. Every day, I flex my creative muscles and unleash my ingenuity: in my work, client strategies, attracting new partners, and yes, even finding new clients. It’s a constant thrill to connect brands with their audiences, spark conversations, and watch them bloom online and beyond.
The most rewarding thing I find in my business is that it involves a high amount of creativity and ingenuity on a daily basis.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Within the dynamic sphere of digital marketing, I’ve observed three essential qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that hold particular significance when working with ethical, sustainable, and compassionate brands. These are not mere trends, but fundamental pillars for impactful and purposeful work.
At the heart lies value alignment. Clearly define your personal values and the causes that ignite your passion. This unwavering clarity acts as a guiding light, shaping your client choices and attracting partners who resonate with your mission. It fosters authenticity and ensures your actions consistently amplify the values you espouse.
Building a multicultural and multi-industry network is paramount. Engaging with professionals from varied backgrounds unlocks a wealth of fresh ideas and unique insights. Diverse perspectives challenge assumptions, prevent echo chambers, and ultimately lead to more effective and inclusive marketing strategies.
Navigating the ethical landscape isn’t always smooth sailing. Be prepared to encounter challenges, setbacks, and even resistance. Persistence and unwavering resilience are crucial for long-term success. Remember, true impact often requires challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries, which can be met with initial opposition. Stay committed to your values, remain adaptable, and learn from every hurdle.
By embracing these key qualities and fostering a deep understanding of your chosen niche, you can navigate the world of ethical marketing with both effectiveness and purpose. Remember, it’s not just about generating clicks or conversions; it’s about contributing to a positive shift in the way brands connect with consumers and impact the world around them.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
“The Big Leap” by Gay Hendricks sparked a revelation in my journey. His concept of the “Upper Limit Problem” – those self-imposed barriers to happiness and success – resonated deeply. Recognizing and dismantling these walls became a cornerstone of my growth, both personally and professionally.
But the book didn’t just diagnose, it offered a cure: the “Zone of Genius.” This sweet spot, where talent, passion, and purpose converge, promises true fulfillment. Discovering and embracing mine has been transformative.
Hendricks’ words ignited a fire within, propelling me forward in business and life. It’s more than just a book; it’s a map to a more authentic, successful, and profoundly satisfying me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://boomtownmarketing.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socialmediaproacademy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boomtownmarketing
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanielahart/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/BoomTownBiz
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/boomtownmarketing
Image Credits
Credit: Stefanie LaHart
