Stronger Together: Reflections from the May StockBridge Business Association Meeting
Pictured is Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon and Dan Seaborn at The Shelley Irwin Show.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for the StockBridge Business Association's May 28 meeting at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
As I looked around the room, I was struck by the incredible mix of people who took time out of their busy schedules to be there. Business owners, nonprofit leaders, community advocates, entrepreneurs, elected & appointed officials and professionals from a variety of industries all gathered together with a shared desire to learn, connect, and strengthen our community. It was a lovely turnout and a wonderful reminder of why the StockBridge Business Association exists in the first place.
Our featured speaker, Dan Seaborn, delivered an engaging and thoughtful presentation on leadership, relationships, and the importance of remembering that who you are is not defined by what you do or the successes you've achieved. He shared openly about his own struggles with seeking validation, and as I paused to reflect on his message, I realized how much it applied to me personally.
I often find myself thinking, "Once I achieve X, then I'll be successful," or "Once I accomplish Y, then I'll feel fulfilled." But what usually happens is that I move the goal line farther away. Instead of appreciating where I am, I focus on what's next, rarely feeling satisfied with the progress already made. Can anyone else relate?
Whether you're managing a team, running a business, volunteering in the community, or simply interacting with family and friends, the way we treat others matters. Small acts of kindness, consistency, and intentionality can have a lasting impact. Dan reminded us that what matters most isn't what society thinks of us, but what our loved ones think of us. Every day, we have an opportunity to make a positive difference in someone's life.
In addition to Dan's presentation, attendees had the opportunity to network, reconnect with familiar faces, and meet new people. One of my favorite parts of every SBA meeting is watching conversations spark between people who may not have crossed paths otherwise. Some of the best ideas, partnerships, and friendships begin with a simple introduction.
We also shared updates on upcoming SBA activities (join us on 6.16 day at New Holland) and shared ways we can continue making our organization welcoming and valuable for both longtime members and first-time attendees. The strength of our business community comes from people who are willing to show up, share ideas, support one another, and work together toward common goals.
Thank you to Dale Robertson and the Grand Rapids Public Museum for hosting us in such a beautiful space. Thank you to Tyler Loftis for sharing about ArtPrize. Thank you to our volunteers and board members who helped make the event possible. And most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the positive energy in the room.
If you were unable to join us, we encourage you to watch the presentation and experience Dan's message for yourself. I've included the link below.
The StockBridge Business Association continues to grow because of people like you, and I am grateful to be part of a community that believes we are truly stronger together.
Fast forward to 20 minutes in to hear Dan Seaborn.
https://youtu.be/_bFRgQv9o68?si=UnhwL2JM_2XYbmX0&t=1246
The WestSide is made up of people from all walks of life, with different beliefs, backgrounds, and cultures. What makes this community so special is our ability to find common ground, celebrate what we share, and work together to make our corner of Grand Rapids a better place for everyone.
Dan Seaborn is the founder of Winning at Home.
Special thanks to El Granjero Mexican Grill for lunch.
