These amazing people have some pretty interesting jobs, so we’re bringing you a fun peek into their work-world along with some of their personal facets. This series will be ongoing, so if you have anyone you’d like to nominate as a potential Spotlight feature, put it in the comments, or send us an email. Enjoy!
Spotlight on Lisa Bodine
Lisa has been president and partner of Giant Voices, a strategic marketing agency located in Duluth, for almost ten years.
What does a typical day look like in your job?
Our days at Giant Voices are always exciting for me. I lead several client engagements for our agency. Primarily, I help with stakeholder communications, sales and marketing alignment strategy, and staff augmentation.
What do you like best about your current job?
I like the variety; every day is different. I enjoy working with our clients to help solve complicated communication challenges. Hands down the best part of my day is working with our ambitious and talented clients and team—it’s the human connections that drive me.
What about your current job do you find most challenging?
The changing landscape is challenging. Much of the work we do revolves around regulatory and compliance industries. There’s no playbook for how to navigate stakeholder communications. We have to dive in, align ambitions, and map out a plan that’s embraced by all parties. Some instances are easier than others!
If you could snap your fingers and solve any problem facing our community, what would it be?
I would love to solve finding alignment around common good. Our region—and the world—seem more divisive than ever. Whether it’s politics, policy, community, or just about anything, the space in the middle appears to be growing—even though I believe there are so many more of us in the middle. I’d sure like to see our region rally for more common good. It’s has, and will, continue to take a village for us to thrive.
What is something (knowledge or a skill) you would like to learn?
A new language.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received that has helped you in your career?
Some advice I like is “keep your powder dry” and “talk less, smile more.” I like them both. In both my professional or personal life, I have realized I don’t need to win every battle. And it’s not necessarily a positive attribute to share my positions with everyone. Back to my notion about divisiveness—listen to one another. Even if you don’t agree, there’s still an opportunity to find common ground in a manner that benefits both parties. There’s no sense in burning a house—or a relationship—down to get your way.
Photo: Bodine with daughter, Izabella, and son, Samuel.