Today we’d like to introduce you to Augusta Gibbons.
Hi Augusta, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In September of 2022, I launched a short-term rental in downtown Troy titled “That Corner Lot.” Since my home is nestled a block behind all of the downtown stores in the walkable city of Troy, it was important for me to give my guests what I consider “The True Troy Experience,” which is in the heart of downtown. I used my Instagram account to create videos and reels of local businesses and areas of interest as a visual guidebook for my guests. I began building relationships with many of the local business owners and learned that we were all going scared, and following our passions, and figuring out small business ownership as we went.
I wanted to find a way to honor that, and I felt like the best way was to give everyone an opportunity to tell their story in their own time, using their own voice. That’s how the podcast was born.
Stay Local Troy is about the stores, the town, and the people who live in and around Troy, Ohio. The podcast is a space for local business owners & historians to tell the stories of the brave men and women who have created the shops and businesses in Troy. The hope is to show that when we each embrace our own unique gifts, we can create something beautiful and impact not only our own lives but the lives of those around us.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t think any road is ever completely smooth, but rather, we have to learn to adapt along the way. As my vision for my home in downtown Troy grew, so did my responsibility. I had to learn new skills and platforms, I had to invest in myself and my business, and I had to learn how to let go and prioritize. I don’t claim to be a master of any of these skills, however I do my best to show up and grow a little every day.
We’ve been impressed with Stay Local Troy, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Stay Local Troy is a podcast, website, & local stay (think Airbnb). We also have an active Facebook & Instagram account.
Stay Local Troy is about the stores, the town, and the people who live in and around Troy, Ohio. The podcast is a space for local business owners & historians to tell the stories of the brave men and women who have created the shops and businesses in Troy. The hope is to show that when we each embrace our own unique gifts, we can create something beautiful and impact not only our own lives but the lives of those around us.
Not only do I work as a local small business supporter, but I am also a local realtor. My goal is to not only help others buy and sale homes but to help them learn how to invest in real estate. My long-term goal is to help new small business owners find their ideal spaces for their businesses and to help revitalize other downtowns throughout Ohio, just as Troy has. I believe all small towns have unique offerings, and if I can help perpetuate that, it would be a dream.
Any big plans?
Looking forward, we are wanting to continue to collaborate with local small business owners. We are planning some small events that will double as givebacks to local nonprofits. We are also looking to expand into more small towns, and to help grow and revitalize downtown areas. We know small businesses play a key role in our communities, so helping to partner with them and their ideal spaces is my overall dream.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.staylocaltroy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stay_local_troy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thatcornerlot
- Other: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/staylocaltroy
Image Credits
Michelle Walker
