I have a theory for you that I think we should test together.
Please allow me to describe where the idea came from before I introduce it -
So much of my research into experiences and what I call “the good life” has me diving into different aspects of community-building.
For a community you need trust. Camaraderie. Shared language and culture. Fun.
You also need people you can turn to for guidance.
In my own life I’ve witnessed that as I grow, life throws challenges that get increasingly more complex. Things get more tricky and grey, while simultaneously I have more confidence in myself than ever to handle them because of all that I overcame before.
I’ve asked so many of you who you look to for guidance these days. You shared that it was your therapist, coach, parent, former teacher, colleague, spiritual leader - the list goes on. Most of these relationships where 1:1 — very few people said that they had amazing people that they leaned on in group settings when solving big challenges.
In thinking about how I tackle the grit of life I turn to a cadre of dear friends — many who are much older than me. I’ll ask for a video call or coffee with them, and outright say “hey do you have ten minutes, I could really use your help thinking through ______.”
The kindness, patience, and amazing advice that I get in these conversations could fill a book - or two, or three. I’ve leaned on these friends across all aspects of my life - personal, professional, romantic, friendly, logical, heart-led.
And as someone who is trying to build a better world, I want to give you that. I so strongly believe that everyone needs that.
So my theory that I’d like for us to test together is this:
I’ve started a board, for all of us.
*Jenna's Board* is a place where wonderful, talented people can get the personal and professional mentorship-driven guidance that they need. It's where board members can meet each other, give back, and be inspired.
I’m building this as a public service that is entirely free for both sides, dealing in good karma and the joy of meeting new, cool people.
Board meetings (1hr zoom meetings) will feature no more than 5 board members each time, and one person who is "it" who is seeking their collective advice. This person will be selected and pre-screened by me. Advice sought and given can be personal or professional in nature. I will attend each board meeting to moderate the conversations and ensure success for all parties involved. The first ten minutes of each board meeting will feature just board members and me to establish group kismet, rapport, and ground rules before the person who is "it" joins.
The incredible people on the board meet the following criteria:
Have lived longer than 40 years on planet earth
Are confident in themselves and trust that they have something to give even if they are very different to someone
Can meet anyone with patience, vulnerability, and good listening skills
Ask questions before opining
Are skilled at giving thoughtful, careful nudges
Want to give what they may not have had enough of when they were younger/less experienced
Can keep conversations confidential and with care
Commit to this being fun, joyful, and meaningful
The people who are “it” and seeking advice from the board meet the following criteria:
Can be all ages
Are able to clearly present their idea, challenge, or quandary to the board within 10 minutes before group discussion
Recognize that magic happens when you’re vulnerable even if you’re massively talented and wonderful
Commit to respecting the time, attention, and professionalism of the board members
Regarding Jenna and the board as new friends, not therapists
Can keep conversations confidential and with care
Commit to this being fun, joyful, and meaningful
I think that’s it. How does that sound?
Do you want to try this with me? Why not right?
If you’d like to consult the board, please reply to this email with a description of your idea, challenge, or quandary. If I select you, we’ll have an initial 15 min call before we schedule your time with the board where I can help you plan out what you’ll present.
If you’re interested in joining the board and giving back to people in this way, please reply and tell me why.
Let’s try this.
Love,
Jenna