In this episode, we talk about showing up, over and over again. How expectations and the basic social dynamics change when you show up just as a person versus when you’re invited because of your professional role. It's only when you keep showing up that you begin to get to the root of the problem. Why? We have our guard up, we can be defensive. Especially when we're strangers and power and privilege isn't balanced. If you keep showing up it creates trust and a relationship gets defined. People know what you can and can't do as opposed to what they perceive your role to be in government. Nicole puts a face to the government positions. She asks, "how can I raise the economic prosperity of the community?" We discuss the duality of investing in the community’s revitalization (aka cultural prosperity, pride, etc) and investing in the neighborhood (aka, assets, things, places, services). With a long term view - what does it look like for children not born yet.

Lesson - Be vulnerable when having these conversations.

It’s uncomfortable. I don’t have the answer, but, I can help you find one

Nicole Travis has been with the City of Lakeland for 9½ years, during which time she was promoted from CRA Project Manager to the Community Redevelopment Agency’s Manager and most recently to Community & Economic Development Director. During her time at the city she used creativity and innovation in the way she managed multiple large complex projects to completion and significant development approvals. Nicole’s background in architecture and private sector experience gives her a unique understanding of how to consider all aspects of development projects.

Nicole is a graduate of Leadership Lakeland Class 34 and she is now Chair-Elect for Class 37. Nicole is a native of the US Virgin Islands and holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master of Business Administration. She has been married to her husband, Shawn, for 10 years and together they have two lovely daughters Jordin, 8, and Madison, 5.