Becoming a Mom of 4, Running for Office, and Growing a Business with Annie Harala
This week, hosts Mariah and Monique welcome Annie Harla, a pioneering leader in politics and community engagement. As the first female board chair for the St. Louis County Board in two decades, Annie's journey from Duluth to a significant political figure exemplifies resilience and leadership.
Her story is a powerful narrative of balancing life's complexities with grace and determination, touching on her experiences with AmeriCorps, health equity, and navigating sudden parenthood through fostering and adoption.
Annie emphasizes the importance of mental health, community support, and the Heart and Soul Mastermind in her journey. Her insights into women in politics reveal the challenges and rewards of serving a tight-knit community like Duluth.
"The real strength lies in listening and learning from those around us” - Annie Harala
In this episode, we discuss:
(00:00) Empowering Women Through Stories
(07:55) Community Engagement and Empowerment
(14:54) Navigating Local Politics and Relationships
(27:03) From Zero to Four Kids
(30:38) Navigating Public Service Challenges
(42:54) Building a Balanced Life and Community
(52:22) Inspiring Women in Community Engagement
Hey Heart & Soul Collective!
In this powerful episode of Heart & Soul, we're sitting down with Annie Harala, co-founder of Story North Productions, elected official, and mother of four, to talk about what it really looks like to lead with courage, vulnerability, and deep community care.
From her time in AmeriCorps and public health to being the first female chair of the St. Louis County Board in 20 years, Annie shares her story of showing up, saying yes, and building a life that reflects her values. She’s also a passionate advocate for women in politics and offers insight into balancing entrepreneurship, local leadership, and motherhood without losing yourself along the way.
Whether you’re dreaming of running for office, launching a business, or simply trying to stay grounded through life’s big shifts—this one is for you.
🔑 What You’ll Learn:
How Annie built a career rooted in community and service
The realities (and myths) of women in politics
Her story of going from 0 to 4 kids in 90 days—while launching a business
How to run for local office (and why it matters more than ever)
Advice for women entrepreneurs with political aspirations
The importance of therapy, support systems, and saying yes to help
📞 Connect with Annie
Website: Story North Productions Instagram: @annieharala Contact: Via DM or email (linked on her site)
💡 Get Involved
Want to run for office or support someone who is?
Check out Vote Run Lead for training and resources, or attend a local school board or city council meeting in your area to get a feel for the work being done behind the scenes.
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All Heart & Soul's Details:
Website: https://www.heartandsoulmastermind.com/
Join the mastermind program: https://www.heartandsoulmastermind.com/heartsoul
Say hi to Mariah on Instagram: @mariahmckechnie
Say hi to Monique on Instagram: @moniqueforcier
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