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Client: Molly Mahar, Founder of Stratejoy
Project: Creating an Independent Community Platform for Deeper Member Connection
Platform: Heartbeat
Key Outcomes: 140 engaged members, self-sustaining subgroups, empowered member-led initiatives
“I feel a tremendous sense of confidence in what we’ve built here. Tapestry has become more than just a community—it’s a place of connection, learning, and shared experiences.”
The Challenge
After 10 years of using Facebook to host Stratejoy’s groups, Molly Mahar knew it was time for a change. "It just wasn’t a sustainable place for me anymore.”
When a security breach locked her out of her own groups, the urgency to find a healthier, more intentional space grew.
“I wasn’t sure where to go next. I’d never really been part of other online groups myself.”
Searching for guidance, Molly discovered Bri’s blog comparing community platforms, describing it as “the exact thing I was looking for.” Bri’s deep knowledge of platform options and her straightforward approach reassured her.
Bri quickly became her go-to expert for not only moving the community off Facebook but also reimagining what Stratejoy’s community could be.
Bri’s Approach: Creating Freedom and Flexibility
Molly didn’t want to feel locked into creating endless content.
“Consistency isn’t my thing."
Bri designed Tapestry with a flexible structure, freeing Molly from the pressure to create content constantly while still building a vibrant, engaged community.
Key Steps:
Platform Transition: Bri guided Molly’s team through Heartbeat, handling the technical setup to ensure a seamless transition. “I was completely swamped in selling and executing my December program. Knowing Bri was handling the build-out was a relief—I don’t think it would’ve gotten done without her.”
Empowering Members: Rather than leading everything herself, Bri helped Molly shift ownership to the members. They called it “running experiments.”
“People could run their own gatherings or groups, which took the pressure off me and let members bring their own value.”
Thoughtful Launch Design: Recognizing Molly’s preference for a time-limited commitment, Bri designed a one-year, low-cost membership model that aligned with Molly’s needs and allowed for future flexibility. “I’m not one to sign on forever,” Molly said, appreciating the freedom this structure provided.
Results: A Community That Thrives on Connection
In less than a year, Tapestry transformed into a self-sustaining, engaged community—one where members feel empowered and connected in meaningful ways. Here are some of the highlights:
Strong Member Buy-In: From the initial 600 Holiday Council participants (a program that runs for just 1 month in December ), 140 chose to join the community for the year.” That felt good, especially since I was still figuring out exactly what it would look like.”
Significant Revenue Growth: The Holiday Council program generated $60,000, while Tapestry memberships brought in an additional $49,000—proving that the new community model wasn’t just engaging but also financially sustainable.
Lasting Connections: The small groups flourished. "I rarely see some of these people in the main feed, but they’re meeting on their own, in small groups I didn’t even need to manage." A few members even met in person, forming connections beyond the virtual community.
Engagement Without Burnout: Molly noted that she could remain deeply involved without getting overwhelmed. "Knowing I didn’t have to show up every single day, that members were engaging with each other, made it feel manageable."
One of Molly’s favorite examples of Tapestry’s organic success was the “harder-to-kill” wellness subgroup, where members set goals together and celebrated victories.
“They’ve created something that’s their own. I’m just thrilled they’re getting that much value out of it.”
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Community-Led Engagement: By creating a community that wasn’t solely dependent on Molly, Tapestry became self-sustaining, with members running their own small groups and initiatives. As Molly put it, “It was a relief to know I didn’t have to create constant content for it to thrive.”
Flexibility with Structure: Bri’s approach allowed Molly to experiment without locking her into a strict schedule.
“It’s been a really fun experiment.
Bri's approach helped me find a way to structure this community without feeling trapped.”
Adapting to Natural Flows: “Summer came, and naturally, engagement dipped. But Bri reminded me it’s part of the cycle." By leaning into these seasonal ebbs and flows, Tapestry could maintain an authentic rhythm that resonated with members.
Connections that Matter: Tapestry turned into a space for genuine connection, something Molly had hoped for but hadn’t expected to see so soon.
“People are helping each other in ways I hadn’t imagined. It’s not just a community; it’s become a place for growth and real support.”
A Platform Shift Worth Making: Though there were challenges moving off Facebook, Molly sees the long-term value: “Facebook wasn’t the right place for what we’re building. With Heartbeat, Tapestry is now a space where members feel at home and valued.”
Why Bri’s Approach Worked (Molly's words)
Bri doesn’t just build communities—she empowers leaders. Her guidance helped us create a sustainable model that reflects Stratejoy’s values, and her emphasis on letting members take charge turned Tapestry into a space that truly thrives.
"Bri understood our needs and showed me that community doesn’t have to be all-consuming—it can be a shared, empowering experience."
Ready to Create Your Own Community Transformation?
Bri’s approach made Tapestry into the supportive, empowered space I’d always dreamed of. If you’re ready to build a community that resonates, I can’t recommend her enough. Take the leap and watch your community come alive. Set up a free Discovery Call today to see if her services could be a good fit for you.
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