Living Transformed

Built to Rise Together: Why Community is Essential to ASCEND

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Episode Summary

In this meaningful and encouraging episode of The Living Transformed Podcast, Caroline sits down with Lesley Platek - storyteller, legacy keeper, and host of Classic City Rewind, to explore the power of community and why no one is meant to rise alone.

As part of the Season 5 theme ASCEND, this conversation highlights how true growth is not just personal, it is deeply relational. Lesley shares her journey of moving to Athens, navigating seasons of loneliness and transition, and ultimately discovering the life-changing impact of intentional community.

Together, Caroline and Lesley unpack how community shapes who we become, supports us in both joy and hardship, and helps anchor us in seasons of change. They discuss the courage it takes to step out, build relationships, and lean into uncomfortable spaces in order to experience connection.

Lesley also shares her heart behind preserving stories and building legacy, reminding listeners that the seeds we plant today - through relationships, service, and presence - can impact generations to come.

This episode is a powerful reminder that ascending isn’t about going higher alone, it’s about rising together, rooted in connection, supported by others, and committed to building a life that lasts. Whether you’re new to a city, feeling disconnected, or longing for deeper relationships, this conversation will encourage you to take the first step toward community, and not retreat.

What to Expect in This Episode
  • Lesley’s journey of moving to Athens and finding community
  • Why community is essential for growth, healing, and belonging
  • How seasons of loneliness can lead to deeper connection
  • The idea that “community models what matters”
  • Why we are not meant to rise alone
  • How life transitions impact identity and connection
  • The role of community in both joyful and difficult seasons
  • Why building community requires intentional action
  • The importance of stepping out of your comfort zone
  • How preserving stories creates lasting legacy
  • What it means to be a “legacy keeper”
  • How small acts of connection can shape a meaningful life
  • Why serving others helps build stronger community
  • Encouragement for women who feel hesitant to put themselves out there
    • Key Takeaways
    • No one is meant to ascend alone—community is essential.
    • Community shapes who we become and what we value.
    • Building meaningful relationships requires intentional action.
    • Growth and comfort do not exist together.
    • Small steps of connection can lead to lasting belonging.
    • Your legacy is built through the people you love and invest in.
    • Serving others is a powerful way to find purpose and community.
    • Stepping out of fear and choosing not to retreat leads to growth.
      • Scripture Anchors

      Philippians 3:14 — “Press on toward the goal…”

      Genesis 2:18 — “It is not good for man to be alone.”
      Hebrews 10:24–25 — “Let us consider how we may spur one another on…”

      Practical Ways to Build Community

      Don’t Retreat

      Lean into hard conversations, new environments, and opportunities to connect.

      Take the First Step

      Join a group, introduce yourself, or show up consistently—action builds connection.

      Embrace Discomfort

      Growth happens when you step outside of what feels easy or familiar.

      Invest in Relationships

      Be present, follow up, and intentionally pour into the people around you.

      Serve Others

      Find a local organization or need—serving creates shared purpose and connection.

      Final Encouragement

      You don’t have to do life alone.

      Even if stepping into community feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar, you are not meant to retreat.

      Start small. Show up. Stay consistent.

      Because on the other side of connection… is the life you’ve been longing for.

      Connect with Lesley

      Podcast: Classic City Rewind

      Website: https://classiccityrewind.com/

      Instagram: @platekles

      Connect with Caroline

      Instagram: @carolineharrisward

      Email: [email protected]
      Website: www.transfitathens.com
      App: TransFit Personal Training App

      Connect with Caroline

      Instagram: @carolineharrisward
      Email: [email protected]
      Website: www.transfitathens.com
      App: TransFit Personal Training App

      Train with Caroline & the TransFit Team

      TransFit offers personal training, group training, yoga, HIIT, Bible study, corporate events, nutrition consulting, and Zoom coaching.

      For more information, email: [email protected]

      Let’s live transformed together, friend — this is your season to grow in faith, strengthen your family, and honor your body as God’s temple.

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      Living TransformedBy Caroline Ward
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