Harnessing the Power of Local Networks with Jen Maseda

Unapologetically Owning Your Space: A Conversation that Challenges the Status Quo

?? If you've ever felt that societal norms or outdated permissions are boxing you in, then buckle up because Jen Maseda is about to blow your mind with the bold inception of She's Local , a hyperlocal conference organization for women. In this episode of the "Stop Shoulding All Over Yourself," Jen shares how she grew into unapologetically owning her own space and is now creating opportunities for other women to do the same all across Massachusetts (and now Kansas City too!)

?? The Reality of Privilege and Responsibility

We covered a lot, because from the moment I attended my first South Shore Conference for Women event , I knew she had something special. There is something magical about people from a shared small geographical space that creates a momentum harder to find in bigger conferences. I was so curious to learn - how did this come to be? What inspired her to start doing this, in a world where everyone always wants go bigger, more expensive, and expansive, how did she come up with the revolutionary idea to ensure accessibility, maintain structure, and keep the mission of small, hyper-local events in mind?

I got those answers, and a whole lot more. Our conversation is far ranging, and one of my favourite elements was where we talk privilege, but not in the way you're used to. In this episode, we go beyond the usual conversation of understanding privilege to the next steps - exploring how those with privilege can use it to elevate and support others. Recently, I was talking to another guest, Dr. Sheva Guy, about her influence on me and how I view privilege - and she made this cute graphic to go along with it .

I feel like Jen Maseda truly embodies this belief as well, that privilege is to be shared, and she tirelessly works to create opportunities for exactly that.

?? Don't Ask, Just Do

One of my favourite parts of our conversation was when Jen shared about the birth of the Metro West conference, and how that was received by some pre-existing organizations. Her badass response to that whole scenario will inspire you forever and reminded me that the era of asking for permission is over. We're in the age of action, whether that's starting your business, advocating for social justice, or pushing boundaries that society has set for you. If you're mission-driven, let that fuel you to break barriers and rewrite the rulebook.

?? She's Local: Where Empowerment Happens

But at the heart of our discussion was the need that so many of us have to belong, and how if you're yearning for a community that empowers you, She's Local is the space to be. With dynamic conferences featuring inspiring speakers and actionable workshops, She's Local equips you with everything you need to succeed and be a force for change either in your own life, or someone else's.

Don't wait; be part of the She's Local experience! Attend one of their conferences to immerse yourself in an empowering community.

?? Find Your She's Local Event Here

South Shore Conference for Women

I'm on the board for this year's conference and would love to discuss how you can get involved. We're calling on all who identify as women to join us - my wife and I will both be there as well so many other women from our community! It's a great time to get to know each other in a different way.

You can participate as an attendee, board member, panelist, vendor, sponsor, or in any capacity that resonates with you. Each year, we aim to introduce fresh voices and perspectives to invigorate our discussions, so your participation and viewpoints are not only invited but warmly welcomed.

To learn more, join us in Braintree this Tuesday at 6:00 PM for an Open House where we want to hear what matters to you right now. Or, schedule a call with me to discuss the conference in detail —I'm eager to learn about your connections to the South Shore and explore how we can collaborate.