Who's walking toward change with you?

Do you feel called to make a difference but unsure where to begin? Are you searching for a supportive huddle of like-minded people whose values align with yours to create meaningful change together? You’re not alone. Some of the most powerful movements begin not with grand speeches or mass protests—but with a few people gathering in support of a shared hope.

"Sometimes it feels like we only have two options when it comes to activism or advocacy. You either vote or you can be in the streets protesting, but everything in between, nobody talks about," explained Sophia Fifner, president and CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Club, when we interviewed her for this podcast. "When women gather around the table to talk community, show up at meetings, volunteer, donate, write, or create—these are all powerful forms of advocacy."

Your path to change doesn’t have to be loud or look like anyone else’s. It starts with who you are and is sustained by a civic huddle that shares your values. Activism lives in kitchen-table conversations, community forums, creative projects, a quick “come with me?” text—and sometimes in the radical act of rest. When you’re held by people who care like you do, showing up feels less like pressure and more like belonging. Change takes root in acts that are honest, intentional, and shared.

To help you find your people and your place in that change, Sophia offers the L.E.A.D. framework—a way to engage that honors your strengths and your capacity:

• Learn: Begin with curiosity. Read articles, books, or listen to perspectives about issues that matter to you. This is the time to make space for exploration and learning.

• Engage: Show up where your energy naturally flows. Attend events, join public meetings, or connect with organizations doing work that inspires you.

• Act: Contribute your time, talent, treasure, or testimony. Volunteer, use your professional skills, make donations, or share your personal story - each approach creates meaningful impact.

• Develop community: Build relationships with others who share your concerns. Find or create groups that support collective action and bring people along on the journey.

What causes call to your heart? What forms of engagement feel most aligned with your strengths and values? How might you begin to take one small step toward using your civic voice?

Remember, as Sophia reminds us: "There's no action that's too small or too big. There's no need to do it perfectly. As long as you do it in the spirit of curiosity and lean into empathy... you can't do it wrong."

For more of Sophia's wonderful work, visit her website or subscribe to her Substack newsletter, The Advocate Next Door where she writes about civic wellness, community engagement, and how women can use their voices for good.