Meet Paul Anderson of Southwest Lansing

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paul Anderson

Hi Paul , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Paul Anderson, a husband, father of two boys, and someone deeply committed to community and creativity. Thirteen years ago, I moved to Lansing from the south suburbs of Chicago. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the community here, and now I’m proud to call Lansing my home.

In August 2020, during the height of the pandemic, my wife and I started Stay Rooted Shop, an online plant business. I’ve always had a deep love for plants, and during that time, we saw how people were confined to their homes, adjusting to remote work, and feeling disconnected from the outside world. We wanted to help them bring nature into their spaces and experience the grounding, restorative power of plants. What made the journey even more special was the incredible community that grew around Stay Rooted. It became more than just a business it was a space where people connected over their shared love for plants, nature, and mindfulness.

Nearly three years later, in June 2023, I joined Southwest Action Group (SWAG) as a community development specialist. My passion for storytelling, societal function, and human connection naturally aligned with the work of fostering meaningful change in communities. Within a year, I stepped into the role of executive director, leading redevelopment projects, securing grants, and working to create spaces where people and neighborhoods can thrive.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. I’ve had to overcome a lot of challenges, starting with a felony I caught when I was 17 years old. That decision has cast a long shadow over my life, making it difficult to secure higher-paying jobs and often leaving me feeling dehumanized by society. I’ve even faced the heartbreak of not being able to coach my son’s basketball team because of it.

On top of that, I’ve struggled with an identity crisis, trying to figure out who I am and what my purpose is in life while wrestling with self-doubt and not believing in myself enough. Those moments of questioning and insecurity have been some of the toughest battles to face.

But, as hard as it’s been, I also know that no main character has an easy, smooth path to their goal. The struggles are part of the story, shaping who I am and pushing me to grow. Each challenge has taught me something valuable, and I’m still on the journey of becoming the person I want to be one moment at a time.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a community leader, my work is rooted in building meaningful connections and understanding the needs of the people around me. I engage in heart-to-heart conversations with community members to learn how I can support them. Sometimes, it’s as simple as responding to a phone call or email or meeting residents or business owners for coffee. Those moments of connection whether small or big are what build a sense of community.

I think my specialization lies in bringing people together by focusing on what we have in common and finding balance in our differences, with the ultimate goal of creating a thriving, inclusive community. I’m passionate about the human experience and storytelling, which influences how I approach my work. I’m not entirely sure what I’m known for, but I like to think it might be my endless curiosity and my desire to learn more about the world around me.

I’m incredibly proud of the work I contribute to the community through Southwest Action Group (SWAG). In 2024, SWAG received the Neighborhood Impact Award, which honors organizations that have a meaningful, positive effect on their neighborhoods. I was also honored as a 10 Over the Next Ten recipient in 2023, recognizing young professionals in Greater Lansing who are anticipated to make significant contributions over the next decade.

What sets me apart is my perspective on life. I see life as a story being written in real time, and I view it through a cinematic lens. That curiosity and appreciation for the richness of the human experience drive everything I do, both personally and professionally. It’s all about creating stories, ones that bring people together, spark growth, and leave a lasting impact.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Thank you for continuing to highlight individuals in the Lansing community and beyond who are making a meaningful impact in their neighborhoods and throughout the state of Michigan.