013: Grit, Glam, and Community: How Amy Sousa Built Eagan City Lifestyle

Описание: In this episode of the Power Lunch Podcast, hosts Tracie Munce and Lisa Carmichael sit down with Amy Sousa, magazine owner, community connector, and publisher of ⁠Eagan City Lifestyle .⁠

Amy shares the real story behind her leap from a 21-year corporate career into entrepreneurship — a decision sparked by a medical leave and health scare that forced her to reassess what truly mattered. What followed was a bold pivot: purchasing a magazine franchise in April 2022 and launching her first issue just five months later.

This conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to build a print-first brand in a digital world, and why trust, consistency, and community still win.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

-Why Amy left corporate after 21 years and chose entrepreneurship
-The realities of cold calling, networking, and building relationships locally
-How a print magazine remains trusted, tangible, and impactful in today’s world
-What it’s like working alongside her husband Matthew as editor and behind-the-scenes partner
-Balancing marriage, motherhood, a full-time publication, and two hair salons
-Why her word of the year is grit — and what that really looks like in action
-Advice for women who feel the pull to leap but are afraid to start

Amy also shares how she uses the magazine as a platform to give back to the community and spotlight local businesses in meaningful ways.

Community & Events Mentioned
The annual Eagan City Lifestyle Gala and community awards
Upcoming golf tournament at Brackett’s Country Club on August 31, 2026
-Local partnerships with business owners, nonprofits, and civic organizations
-The role of genuine connection in strengthening small businesses

Notable Quotes
“I realized I was just a number drinking the corporate Kool-Aid for 21 years, so I left corporate and purchased the franchise.”
“Print is more trusted in our community. The magazine is digestible in about 30 minutes.”
“I truly use the magazine to give back to the community.”
“You might not need a dentist or a florist today, but when you see them consistently, you know exactly where to go when you do.”
“My advice is simple: jump in. Don’t overthink it. Surround yourself with like-minded people.”
“Everybody needs a Matthew in their life.”

Notable Mentions
This episode is a reminder that courage doesn’t always show up loudly. Sometimes it looks like grit, consistency, and choosing yourself — even when the path forward isn’t perfectly clear. Whether you’re curious about entrepreneurship, community-based marketing, or redefining success on your own terms, this conversation will leave you encouraged and grounded.

Connect with Amy & Eagan City Lifestyle
Website: https://citylifestyle.com/eagan
Instagram:   / eagancitylifestyle  
Facebook:   / eagancitylifestyle  
LinkedIn:   / eagan-city-lifestyle  
Digital Magazine Archive: https://citylifestyle.com/eagan/issues

Call to Action:
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