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Being a business owner can feel like you’re out there on your own, grinding away with no one to bounce ideas off of and no community to lean on. In this episode of The KeyHire Small Business Podcast, host Corey Harlock is joined by LaGina Harris, Founder and CXO of The Us Space, to explore why community is one of the most powerful resources an entrepreneur can build.

LaGina has firsthand experience creating spaces that help entrepreneurs combat the isolation of business ownership. Through The Us Space in Houston, she transforms underutilized work and meeting environments into ecosystems for growth, places where entrepreneurs not only find support but also discover opportunities to collaborate, learn, and thrive.

The conversation begins with the reality that entrepreneurship is often lonely. LaGina explains how intentional community-building can solve that problem, offering both social connection and professional validation. She highlights the difference between a personal community, friends and family who care about you, and a business community, which provides the unique understanding and feedback that only fellow entrepreneurs can give.

Together, Corey and LaGina dive into the practical and emotional benefits of surrounding yourself with the right people. From mentors who keep you grounded to peers who offer encouragement and perspective, community ensures that blind spots don’t stay blind. It is also an incredible source of free marketing, because when people know who you are, what you stand for, and what your business does, they become natural ambassadors for your brand.

LaGina also shares her philosophy on the importance of “showing up.” Whether that means stepping into a co-working space, attending a networking group, or simply putting yourself in environments where conversations can happen, showing up is the first step to building trust and finding your people. She reminds listeners that entrepreneurs don’t always need to hit home runs. Singles add up. Community provides the accountability and perspective to help small wins compound into lasting growth.

The discussion touches on common pitfalls too, like being defensive when receiving feedback or taking advice from people who don’t have skin in the game. Corey and LaGina stress the importance of discernment: knowing which voices to trust, building relationships before asking for guidance, and being open to perspectives that can make you better.

For solopreneurs especially, community is more than just a nice-to-have. It is a lifeline. It is the difference between being stuck in your head and finding clarity, between spinning your wheels and moving forward with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Community reduces isolation and provides both emotional support and practical business insight.
• The right mentors and peers can help uncover blind spots and act as trusted advisors.
• Showing up consistently is the first step to building trust, accountability, and long-term growth.

If you have ever felt alone in your business journey or wondered how to find the right people to support you, this episode will give you both the encouragement and the practical steps to start building your community today.

Connect with the Experts
Learn More about LaGina: https://theusspace.com
Follow Corey on LinkedIn @Corey Harlock
Be KeyHire's Next Success Story: https://bit.ly/KHSuccess
Follow us on YouTube @keyhir

KeyHire Solutions helps small business owners scale smarter, not harder. From hiring the right talent to building systems that work, we give you the strategies and support to grow your business without burning out.

Learn More at www.KeyHire.Solutions