How to Build Life-Giving Communities with Jael Anker-Lagos (Ep 61)
Build or create a strong online or in-person Community
What does it take to build a life-giving community? For Jael Anker-Lagos, the answer lies in authenticity, love, and intentionality. Her remarkable journey from a shy introvert to a champion of connection and belonging is an inspiring blueprint for creating spaces where people can thrive together.
Let’s dive into Jael’s story, her insights on community building, and how her work is transforming lives through her platform, Rise to Realness.
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From Shy Beginnings to Passionate Community Builder
“We’re not meant to journey through life alone.”
This realization transformed Jael’s life. Growing up as an introvert, she struggled to connect with others. But everything changed when she became a mother. Parenthood showed her the profound importance of community—seeking advice, sharing struggles, and celebrating joys became her lifeline.
“As I connected with other mothers, I witnessed the power of shared experiences,” Jael recalls.
This newfound appreciation sparked her passion for creating spaces where people could come together, support one another, and find belonging.
Defining Community: More Than Just a Group
For Jael, community isn’t just about gathering people. It’s about building connection, collaboration, and growth.
“Community amplifies the human experience,” she explains. “It’s a space for belonging, empathy, and collective support.”
Jael’s mission is to move communities beyond surface-level connections into life-giving networks where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.
How to Create Safe and Nurturing Spaces
For Jael, community is the ultimate expression of love. “In community, we see love in action—connection, empathy, and mutual care come to life,” she says. Building a community starts with intentionality and Jael emphasizes the importance of setting a clear purpose and fostering an atmosphere of trust.
“It’s about empowering people to recognize the value of their stories,” Jael says. “When we lead with vulnerability, we create safe spaces where people feel comfortable sharing authentically.”
Her secret? Clear communication, active listening, and a commitment to nurturing trust among members.
The Four Archetypes of Community
Jael uses a unique framework to assess and grow communities, breaking them into four archetypes:
- The Sprinkle Community: Scattered and disconnected groups.
- The Giver Community: Content-driven but lacking deeper connection.
- The Network-Focused Community: Organized around professional or social ties.
- The Life-Giving Community: A cohesive, supportive network where love, collaboration, and belonging thrive.
By identifying where a community falls on this spectrum, Jael tailors strategies to deepen connections and foster transformation.
Rise to Realness: A Call to Authenticity
Jael’s business, Rise to Realness, is rooted in one simple truth: we are already whole.
“So many times, we’re bombarded with expectations from society, family, or even ourselves,” Jael explains. “But God created us whole. We don’t need to change or try to be different—we just need to be true to ourselves.”
Through her platform, Jael helps people shed those expectations and step into their God-given purpose.
“When we embrace authenticity, we can rise and create communities that reflect who we truly are,” she says.
WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:
Connect with Jael
Jael’s journey reminds us that community is more than just a group of people—it’s a space where love, authenticity, and purpose come together. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, building a business, or simply seeking connection, Jael’s story is proof that we’re stronger together.
If you’re ready to embrace authenticity and build your own life-giving community, you can connect with Jael at risetorealness.com.
She’s also active on Instagram @risetorealness, where she shares insights and inspiration for fostering connection and belonging.
So, are you ready to rise to realness? Let’s build communities together!
