In this special 150th episode of the Grow Your Local Business Podcast, I’m doing something different. I originally planned to record an Ask Me Anything episode, but after seeing how many of your questions were really about me and my story, I decided to take this episode in a different direction. So today, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the full journey... from growing up in North Louisiana, to dreaming of working for a fashion magazine in New York City, to becoming a teacher, blogger, event host, social media manager and eventually the local marketing coach I am today. This episode is personal, but it’s also a lesson for you: your audience wants to know you. They don’t just want your tips, your strategy or your how-to content. They want your story, your personality, your life and the things that make you you. That connection is what builds trust, relationships and real demand over time. Inside this episode, I’m sharing how I built a name for myself locally in Baton Rouge, how my local blog turned into sold-out events and a thriving community, how I left teaching, found coaching, launched The Localpreneur Academy, and why I eventually let go of one business to fully go all in on the one I have now. If you’ve ever wondered where I started, how I got here, or what this whole business journey has really looked like behind the scenes, this is it. Tune into this episode to learn: How my career evolved from magazine editor to teacher, blogger, event host, social media manager and coachThe pivot that helped me stand out locally and become known in my cityHow letting go of old identities, offers and distractions helped me focus and grow faster Mentioned in this episode: Work with me inside The Localpreneur AcademyFollow me on Instagram @lesliepresnallDownload my Free Guide: How To Grow Your Local Instagram FollowingEpisode #63: Leaving My Full-time Job and Facing My Worst Case Scenario If you’re ready to grow your local business and bring in a steady stream of clients, you need to check out The Localpreneur Academy. Click here to join me inside. Rate, Review & Follow: “I LOVE listening to the episodes, especially since they’re focused on local businesses and it’s not just generic marketing advice.” If you love the show too, please leave a rating and review. This helps me reach more people just like you who want to reach more local people and create a business they love.