Sip, Laugh, Repeat - The Magic of Coffee, Laughs, and Chats

Since I love to talk, write and meet people, taking Coffee, Laughs, and Chats to the next level seemed like the way to go. I wanted to create a space where small businesses, nonprofits, hobbyists, musicians, artists, and writers could shine. Why? These groups are typically income-challenged and simply do not have the budget for elaborate advertising campaigns, networking dues, or big marketing pushes, and that is where I could help. I could share their stories by using my platform to help them reach a wider audience...without charge. I began with Panel Chats consisting of four to six people meeting at an area coffee spot and discussing specific topics. The inaugural story, Paychecks, Playdates and the Never-Ending Pile of Laundry showcased four women talking openly about the good, bad and ugly of working full time, raising children and keeping up with household responsibilities was not only a lot of fun, but it was genuine and, as it turned out, a great read. To my surprise, after posting on social media, spreading the word through networking and making a few videos, website views increased by 189%! Of course, Panel Chats remain at the heart of Coffee, Laughs and Chats, but growth and demand have now brought new features. 

• Brewed Awakenings: Shining the spotlight on everyone who keeps area businesses buzzing. From entrepreneurs, and visionary leaders, to hardworking employees in retail, factories and offices. Whether you’re leading the charge, or clocking in for your shift, Brewed Awakenings shares your stories, insights, and the real talk about work life.

• Nonprofit Niche: Nonprofit Niche highlights the inspiring work and authentic stories from people who contribute their time, talent, and treasure to create lasting change. This platform is about amplifying the voices of those working for the greater good and introducing you to the heroes behind the mission.

• Panel Chats: Panel Chats are a lively blend of laughter, learning, and real-life stories. Panelists entertain, inform and explore everyday adventures, workplace mishaps, practical tips and trending topics. Come for the laughs, stay for the insights. 
• From the Editor: My personal playground for fun, quirky, and everyday stories help remind me that we’re all in this universe together. Whether you’re here for a quick chuckle or a moment of reflection, grab a cup of your favorite brew and join us.

But then the unexpected...A huge hurdle. One I had not expected. Social media algorithms! Yikes! No matter how fun, informative, or downright awesome the articles are, algorithms limit who sees them. I assumed that if people liked a specific page, you would see the posts on your timeline; I was wrong. It’s Catch 22. The only way to see every post is to visit the website or social media page directly (seriously, who has time for that?). I have spent hours trying to bypass algorithms, a feat of great magnitude in itself. I’ve learned that LIKES alone, do not help; COMMENTS, and SHARES do. I am in the process of creating a monthly newsletter and the option to sign up for email notifications is now live. Here’s the secret sauce: Go to pages you have followed or liked, comment, and share their posts.

As for Coffee, Laughs, and Chats, I’m going to keep doing what I’m doing. Growing one step at a time. For me, it is about sharing real stories and real laughter from real people. So, whether you’re an entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, artist, musician, writer, or just someone who loves a good story, you’ll find your place here. Some stories will make you laugh; others will tug at your heartstrings. Together, we can get the message out. I believe we could all use a little less drama and anger, and more laughter and community. 

Coffee, Laughs, and Chats has a social media presence on Facebook, LinkedIN, Tik Tok, YouTube and X, and is a legit online publication (coffeelaughsandchats.com). So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, pull up a chair, and join the conversation. Because every story matters, and every share helps can help someone shine.