Episode Details

We share how a lonely season pushed Elizabeth Bethune to create Gathering AO, a warm, in-person community for female business owners in Auburn and Opelika. From free meetups to a sustainable model, we dig into hosting at women-owned venues, real connection, and why belonging beats business cards.

• origin of Gathering AO as an antidote to isolation
• early growth and the shift forced by the pandemic
• event format centered on the woman behind the business
• hosting at member venues to showcase local shops
• moving from free events to paid tickets and membership
• designing for commitment without losing accessibility
• redefining networking as belonging and support
• how to find the group on Instagram and Facebook

www.facebook.com/thegatheringao

instagram.com/thegathering_AO
theoagathering@gmail.com