The Power of Community: How the Right Investments Transform Your Business
When we talk about “investments” in business, our minds often jump to finances. But at the Rising Tide Society’s Q2 Webinar, our panelists reminded us that the most transformative investments are often made in people, community, and collaboration.
Watch the Webinar Replay on YouTube (and follow our channel):
This dynamic conversation brought together a panel of creative entrepreneurs and leaders who shared real, heartfelt stories about what happens when you choose to invest with intention. Whether you’re outsourcing, building partnerships, or simply showing up for your local chapter—these moments compound into powerful growth.
Community Isn’t Just a Buzzword
“Community is not just a buzzword—it’s the heartbeat of sustainable business growth.”
—Kayla Stinnet, @ironcitysocialbhm, Rising Tide Birmingham
This quote grounded the session in what RTS has always been about: connection. It’s easy to treat networking as transactional, but real transformation comes when community is seen as foundational, not optional.
Collaboration Over Isolation
Gia Ribando, RTS member since 2018 and the current San Diego Chapter Leader, shared how her journey from hairstylist to photographer was shaped by this community. “Being around supportive fellow business owners not only got me through it but helped build my new business faster than I ever could by myself.”
Outsourcing is an Act of Leadership
“Outsourcing isn’t giving up control—it’s giving yourself space to lead.”
—Maddy Mahairas, @maddness.photography, Rising Tide Tampa Bay, FL
Maddy reframed what many small business owners struggle with: the idea that outsourcing means losing ownership. Instead, she encouraged us to see it as a sign of growth and trust.
Saying Yes to Strategic Partnerships
“The most powerful shift in my business came from saying ‘yes’ to collaboration.”
—Caroline Lewis, @lawsonhouseagency, Rising Tide Chattanoga, TN
From co-hosting events to cross-promoting services, Caroline shared how intentional partnerships led to meaningful brand exposure and deeper impact.
The ROI of Showing Up
“Rising Tide gave me more than resources. It gave me people I can lean on.”
—Debby Cullum, @deborahmichellephotography, Rising Tide Birmingham, AL
Sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs come from simply being in the room. Whether virtual or in-person, being part of this community pays off in ways that numbers can’t always capture.
“We often undervalue the ROI of in-person connection. It’s where the magic happens.”
—Virginia Brown, @BeretandBrush, Rising Tide Hartford
Ashlee Weaver, Colorado Springs Chapter Leader, echoed this beautifully: “Rising Tide is where I found my people—a place that makes me feel truly connected to my city and surrounded by creatives who understand, encourage, and grow alongside me.”
She credits RTS with fostering deep relationships that extend far beyond business. Her friend Isabelle, for example, started as a chapter attendee and is now her teammate in both her photography and photobooth businesses.
The Big Takeaway
If you missed this session, the big takeaway is this: Intentional investment—whether it’s time, energy, or trust—is what takes a side hustle to a sustainable business.
We hope you’ll carry this message into your own journey: surround yourself with people who understand your mission, and don’t be afraid to invest in what (and who) helps you grow.
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