Joyfully Ambitious: Laura Zug

Laura Zug believes that together, we are more powerful — and that belief extends into the business realm, too. She works with founders, entrepreneurs and all-around hustlers to help strategize and build the community around their organizations. From virtual connections to IRL relationships, Laura works with clients to help clients learn, grow, and engage in an authentic way. In short: she has the skills and enthusiasm to turn a mission into a movement. 

In addition to connecting and helping entrepreneurs build their businesses, Laura also works to make things easier for business owners on the logistical end. For example: she’s currently working to launch a framework she created for evaluating onboarding, helping to streamline the process so clients can focus on creating their vision. And there’s much more to come. Visit her website to learn more, and subscribe to her newsletter for updates — and to learn more about connecting with smart, awesome people. 

Name: Laura Zug
Pronouns: She/her
Website: Laurazug.com
Social media: LinkedIn

Was there a moment when you knew you were absolutely on the right path?

Yes! I have essentially been a community builder my entire life. I've always loved bringing people together, particularly for the sake of a common purpose. I remember reading Malcolm Gladwell's book The Tipping Point way back in 2000 and identifying with the "connectors," or people who use social networks to help ideas spread far and wide. My early career was in advertising and PR, and I took a long hiatus to be at home with my two boys. All along, however, I was building communities like playgroups, supper clubs, advocacy groups, etc. These were in-person, real world, organic communities, and they inform so much of what I build and create now. 

I sort of stumbled into the field of community when I tip-toed back into the workforce as a part-time community manager. I loved the connection piece, but I also really enjoyed the more strategic aspects. It didn't take long before I started consulting, and I haven't looked back. I get really energized by helping entrepreneurs share their mission with a broader audience and build networks of people around a common vision.

How do you handle self-doubt?

I have yet to meet an entrepreneur who doesn't struggle with this! I think that realization alone is very liberating. Just acknowledging that self-doubt is part of the journey somehow makes it easier to accept. Two things really help me. First, I find it really important to work with a coach or a mentor. These outside voices can help reflect back what is so hard to see on our own. Second, there's nothing like just doing it. The process of thinking through ideas and writing them down really crystalizes them. And when we share our insights, people react. Often those reactions surprise me. Things I believe are so self-evident can be very valuable to others. No matter where you are on your journey, you have something to share. Beginner voices are equally as valid and can offer a fresh perspective. More seasoned professionals can share the light of their experiences. When we think about sharing as a way to serve and give, somehow the doubt fades a bit.

Is there a life or business mantra that you live by?

Yes! Here are a few:
There is always, always hope.
Never quit on a tough day.
Just do 1% better every day. (Baby steps add up!)

How do you find joy in moments of uncertainty?*

For me, it's key to remember that no one can steal your joy. I remind my kids all the time that the only way to lose our joy is to choose to set it down. It's our job to safeguard it, and for me that means just focusing on today. Try to make today the best day it can be. When I hit a roadblock, I find it helpful to reflect. Looking back, I see that I've always managed to find a solution. That's very encouraging in tough moments. So in moments of uncertainty, I choose to focus on what I DO know. I make the best guess and just get to work! That focus, determination, and persistence have always served me well.

Is there another woman in your field that you admire? 

There are so many! I especially admire Tatiana Figueiredo. We both see community as a way to change the world for the better. We share so many viewpoints, particularly the idea of starting small and iterating as you go. (And, she's just an all-around lovely person!)

What is your favorite part of your work?

I tend to think big picture, and love the idea of helping entrepreneurs launch their ideas into the world. There's something truly magical about the power of community. When you bring people together, they can accomplish remarkable things. Facilitating these connections and making such possibilities a reality is the absolute best part of what I do!

What is your favorite part of your day?

That's easy! I'm a morning bird. There's something so magical about waking up in the stillness — that first cup of coffee with the whole day ahead. Everything feels possible. Having an hour or so to myself to reflect and plan really starts my day on the right foot. Ideally, I love having at least one cup of coffee before the sun rises. And if I can get outside to see the sunrise that's even better!

What inspires you?

People. Big ideas. Kindness. Empathy. Bringing people together to achieve a common goal. Possibility.