In this episode, Stephanie shares how she went from running an online membership community to becoming a “Community Steward” at Exchange, and why she chose that title instead of the traditional “community manager.” She explains Exchange’s community-centered framework, where the wisdom is in the room, and how appreciative inquiry and intentional questions unlock the collective intelligence of a group. Stephanie and the hosts unpack what community really means and why it is more than social media followers or a big email list. They explore community as a space of giving and receiving, where people consistently come together, support each other, and experience genuine connection, whether in a neighborhood, a book club, a team, or a small, intimate circle. The conversation dives into conscious leadership and stewardship, emphasizing that everyone in a community; team, members, and leaders, is responsible for the space they co-create. Stephanie offers simple, practical ways leaders can protect their energy, avoid burnout, and show up more intentionally, such as taking small pauses between meetings, noticing their own state, and even naming their exhaustion or stress in front of a group to create safety and authenticity. Stephanie also shares how becoming a mother and now preparing for her second child has shifted her relationship with work, pace, and the feminine, inviting her into deeper slowness, sensitivity, and trust in the unknown. She talks about “mastering presence in a group environment” as one of her core skills, including sensing the energy of the room, slowing down an agenda when needed, and asking, “What is the question we’re really trying to answer right now?” to bring conversations back to what matters most. Listeners will walk away with: A clearer, more grounded definition of community and how to build it intentionally. Practical ideas to steward energy, prevent burnout, and practice conscious leadership in everyday interactions. Simple presence practices to use in workshops, meetings, coaching sessions, and group programs. Connect with Stephanie LinkedIn: Stephanie Courtillier Work: XChange Website
