BOSS Spotlight: Meet The "Leadership Advisor" Brandi Baldwin-Rana, PhD

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Dr. Brandi, CEO of You Advise Me, Helps millennial professionals increase their performance by teaching and inspiring them to become leaders whether they have the title or not. She's witty, high energy, and authentically "real" in her delivery of motivational and practical strategies to help professionals increase their impact. 

 TheBOSSNetwork:  What were some obstacles that you faced in the beginning process of starting your business or career?

BR: When I first branched out as an entrepreneur I really struggled with the loneliness of working from home. It's important to network and stay as connected as possible to real people. That's how business deals get made-- in person! 

BN: What inspired you to break into your particular industry?

BR: I was promoted to my first leadership position at 21 years old and was in charge of a 749-bed student housing facility. That's when I got the "bug" for leadership. Now, I teach new leaders how to succeed in their careers. 


 BN: How do you balance your personal and professional life or have you been able to find a balance?

 BR: I'm a wife and a mother of two... I never quit get "balanced". However, I do have specific days and times each week that are for the family. It doesn't matter what deadlines are coming up, or how much work I have to do, I never miss my family time. 

BN: What is an inspirational quote that you live by?

BR: "Change is the essence of life. Be willing to surrender what you are for what you could become."  

BN:Who were some influential people or mentors that helped or encouraged you  along the way?

BR: It sounds cliche, but my mother is probably the only person who has consistently told me that I am great and worthy of success. She never said it as a compliment, she said it as a declaration over my life. That unyielding support and encouragement has helped me remain successful during the tough times of business. 

BN: What are your "must-haves" to keep your career or business going strong?

BR: I read 6 magazines every month that I attribute to my success as an entrepreneur: Black Enterprise, Success, Inc. Magazine, Fast Company, Forbes, Entrepreneur It's like getting an MBA without the cost!

BN: What is your definition of a BOSS?

 BR: A BOSS is someone who is unapologetic about who they are. It's someone who shines their light on the world and perseveres in the face of obstacles. Someone who never gives up. 


 To connect with Brandi Baldwin-Rana follow her on Twitter at  @doctorbrandi
and visit her website at www.doctorbrandi.com



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