23: The System for Getting Involved in Your Community

What if the key to transforming your city was simply showing up? For many of us, local politics and civic engagement can feel like a world reserved for career politicians, polished extroverts, or people with endless free time. But what if I told you that you could make a meaningful impact in your community without quitting your day job or becoming someone you're not? In this episode, I spoke with Laura Vola, former candidate for city council in Carrollton, Texas, about what it really looks like to get involved locally. Laura stepped up with zero political experience. She simply had a fierce belief in showing up for her community. Whether you're thinking about running for office or just wondering what it means to engage more deeply, Laura’s story offers a roadmap that's equal parts inspiring and incredibly practical.This episode is brought to you by The Entrepreneur's Death Folder:If your business couldn’t run without you, that’s a problem—a haunting your assistant from the beyond kind of problem. That’s where the Entrepreneur’s Death Folder comes in. It’s your digital contingency plan: all your logins, contacts, workflows, and need-to-knows in one tidy, shareable place.Less spooky, more smart. Because peace of mind is the ultimate productivity tool.Buy Now >>In this episode:Getting on the ballot is easier than you think.Shared calendars, reminders, and support systems kept Laura’s campaign (and life) running.You don’t need experience to get involved. Start small and show up.Find It Quickly:00:17 - Meet Laura Vola: A Dynamic Community Leader01:17 - College Memories and Reconnecting01:58 - System Reboot: Quick Reset with Laura04:07 - Laura's Journey to Running for Office04:27 - Deciding to Run: The Moment of Truth06:44 - Navigating the Campaign Trail08:41 - Balancing Life and Campaigning13:12 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome17:21 - Getting Involved Locally: Practical Tips20:47 - Post-Campaign Reflections and Staying Involved24:46 - Lightning Round: Local Civic FavoritesConnect with Lauralauraforcarrollton.cominstagram.com/lauraforcarrolltonConnect with Julie:Website: dallasgirlfriday.comInstagram: @thesystemforeverything