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How She Built a National Network of Local Influencers

Chelsea Kopelman of Keeping Up in Carmel shares how she turned local storytelling into a full-time career. Hear her tips on content creation, brand building, and growing a hyperlocal network across Indiana.

Podcast Summary

On today’s show I sat down with Chelsea Kopelman, the founder of Keeping Up in Carmel and Keeping Up Local, to discuss her fascinating journey from working at Eli Lilly to becoming a successful content creator.

Chelsea shares insights on building a life and community in Carmel, Indiana, and the importance of creating valuable, hyperlocal content.

She also shares tips for aspiring content creators, the growth of her affiliate network, and how she balances her passions for health, fitness, and faith with her career.

Whether you're a local business owner or an aspiring influencer, you'll find valuable takeaways on building a personal brand and community engagement.

You are going to learn about:

  • Chelsea’s Journey from Eli Lilly to Content Creator

  • Tips on Becoming a Content Creator 

  • How to Build Your Personal Brand

Thank you to our partners:
Huse Culinary
Hope Plumbing

Check out these great clips from the show:
01:20 Guest Introduction: Chelsea Kopelman, Keeping Up in Carmel
02:43 Chelsea's Journey to Carmel
04:28 Starting 'Keeping Up in Carmel'
07:16 Building a Community and Content Creation
14:14 Expanding the Brand: Keeping Up Local
28:48 Starting the Journey: Early Challenges and Team Formation
29:50 Expanding the Network: Growth and Community Engagement
30:58 Scaling Up: Infrastructure and Strategic Planning
33:02 Launching the Affiliate Program: Unexpected Success
36:28 Navigating the Creator Landscape: Challenges and Insights
39:21 Content Creation: Strategies and Inspirations
42:16 The Power of Community: Collaboration and Support
52:45 Reflections and Future Vision
57:27 Reflecting on Unique Ideas and Entrepreneurship
57:56 Balancing Content Creation and Business
58:20 Navigating Personal and Professional Growth
01:00:10 The Vision for Keeping Up Local
01:07:45 Advice to Younger Self
01:13:49 Challenges and Rewards of Content Creation
01:22:25 Hidden Gems and Final Thoughts

Guest(s)

Chelsea Kopelman

Date Published

August 6, 2025

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.