Towne Post Network has always billed itself as a “family-oriented company,” and few stories reflect that idea better than the journey of father-son publishers John and Dylan Lewandowski.
John and his wife, Mandi, started “The Lakes East” and “Lakes West Magazines” in 2019. Over the summer, Dylan purchased “Carmel Magazine” and is poised to make waves of his own in the community.
In many ways, Dylan grew up alongside The Lakes publications in Northern Indiana. Dylan was only 19 when the publications were first starting and John explains how his son would ride along and meet clients face-to-face.
“In just a matter of days, Dylan was going to business owners on his own and turning them into customers,” John says. Six years later, many of those business owners are still running ads in the Lakes publications.
“For most of his life, Dylan has overheard many conversations I have had with clients on the phone and in person,” John says. “He has seen and heard clients of mine talk about both positive and negative things and learned how I handle each situation. He has learned how to present himself in a very respectful manner and can talk with anyone.”
John says clients instantly felt a rapport with Dylan, even after he went back to school at Ball State University for the fall. “Just about every customer told me they were impressed by Dylan,” John says in a “proud papa” moment.
John’s influence rubbed off on Dylan and has stuck with him this whole time. ”It’s about connecting with people and engaging with them,” he says. “Understanding who they are and what they need has been a big theme in this business. No matter the size of the company or organization, getting their name out and promoting what they do has been incredibly beneficial.”
So, when “Carmel Magazine” came up for sale in the spring, it was a natural fit for 24-year-old Dylan to take the reins. “After working in corporate sales roles since earning my degree, I knew there was more I could do for myself and for my community,” Dylan says. “I’ve always wanted to go into business for myself, but as someone in my twenties, I didn’t know when the right time would be. I had connected with Towne Post CEO, Tom Britt. I already believed in the quality of the Towne Post magazines. I felt that this was an opportunity I could not pass up.”
Dylan has big plans for the future of “Carmel Magazine.”
“The idea that I can meet business owners and community leaders, learn their stories, and promote them is incredible,” he says. “I feel overjoyed that ‘Carmel Magazine’ has been able to bring much success to small business owners as well as spotlight folks who are doing great volunteer work in our community so far.”
As for John, he has advised his son not to let negative experiences rule the day. “Listen to them and learn, but do not let anyone take you off course,” John says. “Sometimes, dealing with a negative person or situation head-on is one of the best learning experiences you will ever have. You will find many positive people who will love the opportunity to be part of the ‘Carmel Magazine’ if you keep driving yourself forward. Do not let the potholes you hit on your way stop you from getting to those good people on the road to success.”
Wise words indeed.
Want to connect with Dylan? Contact him at dylan@townepost.com.
