As Brené Brown says, “Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.” In that spirit, here are my clearly outlined work boundaries. I offer these to you so you feel confident reaching out to me for help or so you understand why I am unable to approve your request.

These boundaries align with my values of integrity, ingenuity, and equity. Without them, my work would be unsustainable.

Boundary 1: Calls & MEETINGS

So I remain focused on my team’s work, I am careful with whom I meet. I am happy to schedule a call or meeting with you if you are:

• A prospective client with a potential paid project to discuss

• A journalist or academic researcher seeking expertise in remote employee engagement, digital leadership, online communities, brand communities, or digital connection.

• A founder or creator with a product or service that relates to community building and that does not cause harm (intentionally or otherwise) via algorithmic bias, surveillance, or exploitation. My team reviews your inquiry and will offer resources if a personal call is impossible.

Boundary 2: Speaking Opportunities

I’ve been called the “Energizer Bunny of Online Communities”. I am ecstatic about speaking opportunities where I can share the lessons I’ve learned through my work with thousands of community builders as well as my academic research.

In most cases, investing in bringing me in as a speaker requires: 

1. An honorarium, or

2. A bulk purchase of copies of Building Brand Communities (the quantity is less important than the spirit in which you purchase them) 

I am happy to speak at your event without an honorarium or bulk book purchase if: 

• The event is for a small non-profit, foundation, or early-stage startup with a compelling social mission

• Your event serves human rights, social activism, local progressive politics, or labor organizing

• Your event is break-even (+ attendees are not being added into your sales funnel), and your purpose resonates with me

Boundary 3: Books

I wrote a book with Charles Vogl, distilling brand community expertise from across industries and contexts. I love it when people share the book and its principles. Any way you do that is A-OK with me. And I am happy to gift you a copy if: 

• You are an educator, academic, or student

• You’re a friend (if you’re my friend, you should probably support and buy a copy… but I’m not here to judge)

Just let me know how you plan to use it when you reach out! 

Boundary 4: Intellectual Property

Everything on this website and throughout my workshops, talks, and blogs is my intellectual property. Under certain circumstances and with trusted partners, I share this IP freely, but only with my written consent. You’re welcome to share anything with attribution. That said, I relish hearing how you use this work, so please contact me and let me know when you use it! 

If you are unsure about your specific ask, reach out via the contact page and expect a follow-up from my team!

Thank you for understanding and helping make my work sustainable. The more we watch out for each other, the more we all get free. 

In solidarity,