In this episode of Connections That Matter, Andrew sits down with Desiree Gustafson, publisher of Loveland + South City Lifestyle Magazine. Desiree shares how she uses storytelling, intentional networking, and authentic relationships to spotlight the people, businesses, and nonprofits making Loveland, Berthoud, and Johnstown stronger.

From helping business owners clarify their “why” to bringing partners into the right rooms, Desiree offers practical insight on building a recognizable brand and becoming meaningfully connected in your community.

Episode Highlights

🔹 How Loveland + South City Lifestyle tells hyper-local stories across Loveland, Berthoud, and Johnstown.
🔹 Why consistency and relationship-building matter more than a one-time networking appearance.
🔹 The importance of building marketing around your authentic “why.”
🔹 How Desiree supports magazine partners through introductions, events, social media, and personal follow-up.
🔹 Why showing up in person can be more powerful than relying only on paid advertising.
🔹 A success story of helping a local entrepreneur grow a side business into a full-time passion.
🔹 Tips for attending networking events when you are new, introverted, or do not know anyone in the room.
🔹 How a wiener dog event can become a meaningful community-building opportunity.

Why You Should Listen

🔹 Learn how to make your marketing feel more personal, memorable, and authentic.
🔹 Get practical advice for networking beyond simply handing out business cards.
🔹 Hear how community involvement can create lasting brand trust.
🔹 Find encouragement to show up consistently, build real relationships, and take opportunities outside your comfort zone.
🔹 Discover why the strongest business connections often happen outside traditional networking events.

How to Contact Desiree

To learn more about Loveland + South City Lifestyle Magazine, advertising opportunities, community stories, or upcoming events, connect with Desiree through the publication’s website or social-media channels.
https://citylifestyle.com/lovelandandsouth
desiree.gustafson@citylifestyle.com | (970) 690-1419

Timestamps

0:48 – What Loveland + South City Lifestyle Magazine is all about.
2:15 – A month in the life of a local magazine publisher.
5:00 – Keeping business partnerships personal and relational.
7:07 – Why authenticity matters in marketing and networking.
10:41 – Bringing business partners into the right rooms.
11:44 – A local-business success story: From Scratch Farm.
14:17 – Building trust through consistent Chamber involvement.
16:04 – Networking tips for people who do not know anyone in the room.
17:28 – The possible Loveland wiener dog event.
20:58 – Sharing the stories that matter most in the community.