How to Be “In the Know” in Your Own City

Being “in the know” isn’t about exclusivity – it’s about relationships. It’s about showing up consistently, supporting others and building a network rooted in trust and shared investment in your community. Every city has its own rhythm, and you begin to understand it when you invest in the people and spaces shaping it.

In my experience working in community events while also exploring Reno’s food and nonprofit landscape, the most connected individuals aren’t chasing visibility; they’re building relationships. They support local restaurants regularly, attend events even when they’re not headline attractions and follow emerging creators who are shaping culture from the ground up. Over time, this consistent engagement creates awareness of what’s gaining momentum before it becomes widely known.

Relationships matter more than algorithms. Introduce yourself to organizers. Thank a chef for a thoughtful menu. Volunteer for causes aligned with your values. Ask about the mission behind an event instead of just capturing the aesthetic. When you show genuine curiosity and support, people remember you. And when you consistently show up, you naturally become part of the community’s ecosystem.

Being “in the know” also carries responsibility. It means using your platform, whether large or small, to amplify meaningful work and celebrate the people building your city. But it also means maintaining the relationships you form along the way. Stay connected to the people you meet at events. Follow up. Support their next project. Turn introductions into friendships and collaborations. Seek mentors in the spaces you admire, and be willing to learn from those who have been building long before you arrived. Culture isn’t something we consume passively; it’s something we shape through participation and long-term investment in one another. When you approach your city with intention, curiosity and genuine care, you don’t just stay informed, you contribute to its growth.

If you want to feel more connected to where you live, start small. Attend something new this month. Support a local business. Introduce yourself to someone doing meaningful work.

What’s one way you plan to engage more intentionally in your city?