Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in entertainment but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Laura Stotland, Founder of Local Anchor, located in Redondo Beach, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Local Anchor is the go-to destination for local parents. We offer families a one-stop shop for finding local events, things to do, places to go, things to eat, and ways to give back. We also promote buying local and giving back—two tenets that are essential for building strong communities.
Tell us about yourself
With a successful marketing career and extensive philanthropic experience, I knew I could make a difference in my community. I created South Bay Mommies & Daddies in 2017 with the purpose of supporting local families. As the administrator of a popular local Facebook group, I saw the same questions come up again and again, so I decided to launch a website.
In 2021, I was selected for the prestigious Facebook Accelerator Program, which included a grant. I used the resources from the grant to rebrand, establish Local Anchor as a full-service media company, and launch the website. It also allowed me to expand into the greater Los Angeles area. My goal was to create more than just a directory of local resources. I wanted to bring the community together by encouraging families and businesses to give back, lead with kindness, and support each other.
I also wanted to use her vast marketing and philanthropic expertise to support small businesses. Local Anchor has grown from just an idea into a successful media company that is making a difference. Families and businesses have come to regard it as a valuable and trusted community resource.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say one of my biggest accomplishments to date was definitely being honored and recognized by Facebook/ Meta as one of the best groups on the platform! Local Anchor founder, I was selected as one of 131 Facebook Community Accelerator program recipients globally, out of more than 13,000 applicants, based on demonstrated impact in the community and ability to scale to other markets. It was a true honor to be recognized.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things about being a business owner is wearing all the hats and doing all the things. Although I love what I do, I spend many hours every day doing tedious tasks to keep the business afloat.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a plan, be strategic, and you don't have to do everything on day 1.
- Find other business owners to connect and network with, so you can support each other through the journey.
- This is a must! You must have passion for what you are doing.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://localanchor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LocalAnchor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearelocalanchor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/local_anchor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/localanchor/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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