Badassery Magazine August 2018 Issue 27 | Page 35

I needed to know their secrets… and it all seemed to be happening for them at lightning speed. DAMN YOU INSTAGRAM for constantly reminding me! I stopped. Reflected. Got Over Myself. Hired a Web Developer. From that experience, I knew one of BRA’s core values needed to be to encourage entrepreneurs in the same field to look at each other as resources, experts and their new BFFs. A lot of networking groups I had joined before I founded BRA only allowed one person in that particular field into their group. Only one photographer, copywriter or interior designer. No, thank you. That’s so elitist and small-minded. I’m way more about inclusion and growing with each other. I do really believe we’re better together. BRA facilitates “mastermind sessions” where we bring a group of professionals in the same field together at a dinner party, similar to how BRA began, to really talk about their professional experiences. And we dive deep; we talk about everything from best practices, not undercharging or undervaluing our work, and advice and support from our varied experience levels on how to grow a profitable business. BM: What is your “big vision” for BRA Network and where do you see it going? CM: World Domination. Ok, maybe that is a little broad or BRAd ;) Honestly, I would love for the BRA community to take the form of a physical space. A place for ladies seeking all types of community. Bigger and more robust than your average co-working space, the BRA Campus would be a one stop shop for all things “Supportive”. Need some wifi and work space? Got you. Business Growth Workshops? Child care? Yup, got that on the second floor. A Pump Station? Nipples up and sponsored by Medela (I have a love/hate relationship with Medela, but I’d be into considering a sponsorship if they’re listening!) Yoga/Mediation/Boxing... Health Care - Need a pap and a mamo, let’s offer a BOGO... Taxes, Financial Planning… Massage, acupuncture, chiropractic work... All of these services and much more, ideally operated and run by BRA Members. That plan is definitely my “big vision” and won’t take shape for a little longer, but it’s something I’m completely committed to for the long-term future of BRA. These women have surprised each other, themselves, and me with what they’re capable of and it’s an idea that their work ethic and badassness inspired in me. It’s something that I feel would truly honor not only the spirit of the principles BRA was founded on, but also what these women are shaping it to become.  A haircut or a blow out... Connect with Carrie at bra-network.com    AUGUST 2018 • 35