A few Sundays ago (I’m working on consistency y’all), I had the awesome opportunity to attend the Boss Babe Brunch hosted by Mariah Oliver owner of Behind the Scenes Marketing. It was my first brunch event since the city had started opening up, and honestly it felt so good to be out again. I put on my new dress from my latest New York & Company clearance haul, co-washed my hair—I even wore heels, y’all! The purpose of this event was to bring together women entrepreneurs across Central Indiana to network and be inspired (plus the added bonus of bottomless mimosas). I had an opportunity to meet women who had blogs (Here and Here), were launching podcasts, starting nonprofits and a wonderful baker who established her business in honor of her mom. I even had the pleasure of attending with my own boss bestie, Brittany from SnapsxStyles Media. When I tell you there was nothing but good vibes swirling around the room from start to finish. We enjoyed being around one another to learn and affirm each others’ passions. There was even an enlightening moment where we caught ourselves playing small with our endeavors. It’s crazy how women can become conditioned to humble brag. It showed me I need to be more confident in telling folks I’m a blogger. I blog, so there you go.

BSquared

Brittany of SnapsxStyles and myself
at the photo booth.

One of my favorite elements of the event were the fabulous speakers that were there. They truly are phenomenal women in their own ways, and I appreciated them being vulnerable about their journeys and providing powerful advice to help us all continue forward as bosses. Jeannie Lee Lake is the only Black woman running for Congress in the state of Indiana. She shared the power of trusting God to provide for what He’s calling you too. He will blow your mind with the gifts He’ll give you to overcome the challenges you face. Shayla Pinner insight affirmed that it’s ok to walk away from the present work if you’re not passionate anymore and explore a career change, even if others don’t understand you journey. Angela Freeman is a powerhouse who you can tell lives freely as her authentic self in professional spaces, and I loved her energy. She was a microbiologist turned patent lawyer (wow), who is the epitome of what grind looks like, all the while emphasizing the power of networks. Last but surely not least was Sonal Sheth Zawahri. Through her life transitions and experiences she spoke the importance of standing on what you know is right, and not staying down when difficulties arise. She also introduced us to her framework of STRETCH (can’t wait to get her workbook). Plus, she’s a very energizing and motivational speaker. Long story short—these women had me in the feels, positively.

I know times are scary right now, but don’t close yourself off from networking with folks who could potentially put you in the position to live your dreams or better yet you provide a needed resource for someone else. I’m grateful that Mariah stayed with her vision and things calmed down just enough to make this event possible. It was definitely the encouragement I needed to keep up with my boss swag.