Episode 324
Chelsea Kowalski
Creator of @lakenormanexploring & @followourcompass

In this episode of The Best of LKN, Jeff Hamm chats with Chelsea Kowalski, the creative force behind two standout Instagram accounts: @LakeNormanExploring and @FollowOurCompass.
Chelsea shares how she transitioned from a career in accounting to content creation, her journey into social media management, and the growth of her local and travel brands.
Topics Covered:
- Chelsea’s move from upstate NY to Lake Norman
- The evolution from wedding videographer to full-time content creator
- Growing @LakeNormanExploring from food-focused to full lifestyle
- Behind the scenes of her travel account, @FollowOurCompass (72K+ followers)
- Working with brands like Sandals Resorts and local Lake Norman businesses
- Social media strategy tips for small businesses
- Favorite tools: iPhone, drone, CapCut, and more
- Building community through content and collaborations
- The power of providing value and information in your posts
Local Businesses Mentioned:
- King Canary Brewing Co.
- Palm Berries
- Carolina Destinations
- Sully Steamer’s
Connect with Chelsea:
- Instagram: @LakeNormanExploring | @FollowOurCompass
- Email: lakenormanfood@gmail.com

About the Host:
Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN. He’s a local real estate agent and digital marketing professional.
Since 2020, Jeff has been sharing the stories of Lake Norman’s most inspiring small businesses and nonprofits.
When he isn’t working, you can usually find Jeff boating, playing pickleball, cycling local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.
Jeff Hamm
NC Real Estate Broker
Lake Norman | High Country
www.LKNreal.com
Photo credit: LKN Images by Kathleen Martin
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