In episode 73 of the Buying Local podcast, host Mike Nelson sits down with Bethanie Lawrence to explore how the World Awareness Children’s Museum is bringing global culture and creativity to kids in the local community. They dive into nonprofit leadership, navigating challenges like the pandemic, and the importance of arts education in childhood development.

Learn more about Bethanie Lawrence and the World Awareness Children’s Museum on their website at worldchildrensmuseum.org. You can also find them on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn by searching for the World Awareness Children’s Museum.

0:00 Intro and guest welcome

2:00 History and mission of the museum

4:00 What makes the museum unique (arts vs STEM focus)

6:00 Age ranges and who the museum serves

8:00 Bethanie’s background and move to the area

10:00 Becoming executive director

12:00 Leading through the pandemic

14:00 Running a nonprofit like a business

16:00 Revenue streams and community support

18:00 Leadership style and managing teams

20:00 School partnerships and outreach programs

22:00 Annual gala and fundraising efforts

24:00 How local businesses can contribute

26:00 Summer hours and tourism impact

28:00 Summer camps and youth programs

30:00 Final thoughts and how to get involved