If I’m being transparent, I’m not the most compassionate person or the most tolerant. Well, at least not when faced with creating meaningful relationships in a superficial world. Sometimes I find I’d rather not plug in than be in a situation where I feel I have to be somewhat fake or heaven forbid vulnerable. I was forged in the “get ‘er done,” “cowgirl up,” “no time for platitudes” realm of professionalism, and while I feel I’ve overthrown most of that old programming, I still face a few barriers to allowing my “real” me to connect with the “professional” me, even though I feel they are one and the same.

While I might be a hair older than most of this year’s Catalyst 20 Under 40 winners, I admire their generosity of spirit and passion for making each connection real and meaningful. Maybe I was born before my time, or maybe I still carry remnants of the “good old days” around with me, but these young professionals seem to be able to marry their “real” selves with their “professional” selves with grace and style. That’s why I so look forward to getting to know each of them more and celebrating their recognition as our region’s most impressive young leaders. You’ll see what I’m talking about when you meeth them in this issue.

While networking and building relationships are critical to marketing your business, service, or product, social media has been ranking higher on the mandatory marketing list every year. In this issue we share a couple of articles that offer insight into looking beyond the Search Engine Optimization (SEO) model and streamlining Facebook ad strategies. Also make sure to check out the news about things going on in our area and a new creative business co-op called The Local.

If you have a story idea or a company that rocks your world, I’d love to hear from you. Providing relevant content is what Catalyst strives to do. It is your regional business magazine.

As always, I hope you enjoy the people you meet and the things you might learn in this issue. Happy reading.

– Robin Bishop