For many, one of the greatest enemies is systemic poverty; systems that make it incredibly difficult for those who are struggling financially to overcome that hurdle.
Those caught up in that system are not looking for wealth; they are looking for stability, if not even survival. They are willing to work, but can’t catch a break, or their past struggles are great to overcome.
For those of us concerned about people in our community beyond our own self, family, and friends, how do we help? Who is on that wall leading an active effort to provide social and economic support with tangible actions that help both now and into the future?
60 years ago, those in Stearns, Benton, and Sherburne counties in Minnesota decided to work together, to partner with existing organizations, and to be a voice and action group to fight this enemy known as poverty.
And for 60 years, they have been doing that through TRI-CAP, the Community Action Partnership of those three counties. Their work has been heroic, both individually and collectively, helping with transportation, guidance, economic support, and resources to improve the quality of life for those in their community.
In late February, the staff of TRI-CAP met to learn, laugh, network, and talk about the serious work ahead over the next 60 years. Armed with a refreshed vision and mission, and grounded in their core values, this gathering was a powerful reminder of good in our world.
It was a wonderful honor to be part of that gathering for the entire day.
Sure, I shared insights about navigating the adventure of life and working in such an important role in the community, but for most of it I was an observer—listening to the conversations, asking questions, and realizing (once again) how many unsung heroes we have in our world.
If you know anyone working at a Community Action Partnership, please thank them repeatedly.
Connecting with the Community
If you are a speaker or aspiring speaker, then this is for you. I’m thrilled to host another high-impact virtual session for our Ambitious Speaker Collective community this Thursday, March 5 at 10am (CST).
I’ve invited a fantastic guest speaker to pull back the curtain on how they successfully transitioned from a day job to a full-time professional speaking career—booking 71 events in 2025 alone! 🎤
Usually, these are closed sessions, but I’m opening this one up for free to anyone interested in professional speaking. If it’s not a fit, please pass this invite along to anyone in your network looking to take the stage!
THE DETAILS:
This is a live, 90-minute Zoom session. It is not being recorded—you have to be there to get the value. Send me an email and I’ll send you the link to join us.
What we’ll be covering:
- How you get on stages – “call for speakers” process
- Speaking bureaus and agencies, differences and how to get listed
- How to effectively get spin business following a talk
- Elements of a powerful talk and receiving speaking coaching
- How giving a TEDx literally could change the course of your life
- Speaking assets you must have- video, one sheets, website
- Plus names and resources of who to follow, who to watch, who to study to take your speaking to the next level.
- Open Q&A
February gave me a moment to breathe from speaking, but not for the business. I am busy working on a new leadership journal to be released soon (getting the Right Peeps in the Jeep), a new promotional video, creating a new talk (The Courage Advantage), and more!
It’s good I’m getting those things done now, because things are really going to ramp up in April and for the rest of the year. I have a lot in the works for the coming months, so stay tuned—and in the meantime, I hope to see you on Thursday!
To follow more of my speaking journey, let’s connect on social media. Follow me on LinkedIn or YouTube, or join the conversation on Facebook or TikTok.
Until next time,
Maisha ni safari
(Swahili… Life is a Safari)
Sincerely,
Steve Fredlund
You’ve Got This!Keynotes | Breakouts | Workshops | Retreats
(651) 587-5435 — SteveFredlund.com
About The Author
Steve Fredlund is an award-winning keynote speaker, two-time TEDx presenter, and bestselling author of Do the Unright Thing: Memoir of a People Pleaser. After decades as an actuary, executive, entrepreneur, and nonprofit founder—including leading humanitarian efforts in East Africa—Steve discovered that doing everything “right” doesn’t always lead to fulfillment or impact.
Drawing from that journey, he developed The Courage Advantage™ philosophy—centered on the everyday courage to move beyond expectation, lead with authenticity, and live in alignment with what truly matters. Through his engaging stories, humor, and practical insights, Steve inspires audiences to find greater clarity, connection, and fulfillment in both life and leadership.