We had the good fortune of connecting with Brittany Beans and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brittany, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risks are hard to take because there is an element of fear and at times, complete uncertainty. Because of internal and external negativity that can really play on a person’s mind, it is challenging to get through those moments of doubt and begin to action our goals. But I realized that I must move forward and strive toward my purpose using the talents I have been gifted. Recently, I took a major risk by exiting my full time job, and deciding to focus on growing my business singularly. This shift has allowed me to reassess how I want to live personally, while providing the time to focus and build the components of my business thoroughly.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I believe that above all, I am a Creative. I strive to express myself artistically, while monetizing those outlets to support myself. My road has not been an easy path, because while famous artists are praised, striving artists are derided and told to be “realistic” and get a “real job”. I struggled with that concept for some time, because those who were telling me to conform to the Corporate American lifestyle were from my personal village. So I had to make a decision. Was I going to allow others to tell me which path to go down? Or was I going to listen to the light within me. I eventually chose to listen to myself and I am so grateful that I made my own choice.

As a Creative I have six outlets of expression; 1) Intentional Twenties (podcast for young adults wanting to live more intentionally), 2) Color Burst (fabric collage series), 3) My Bald Is Beautiful (subscription box specifically catered to women with smooth scalps due to illness or alopecia), 4) Singing While Quirky (original and cover songs), 5) When Did I Stop Turning Cartwheels? (new book written to help young adults challenge personal complacency), and 6) Creative Collective (space for fellow Creatives to be interviewed and featured).

I am grateful for all that has been invested in me. Therefore, because of the seeds sown within, I am excited for the bounty of harvest that is on its way. I cannot fail. I can only fly.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love nature. Being surrounded by the handiwork of our Creator is humbling and grounding. If I were to recommend top places in Jacksonville to commune with our natural surroundings, The Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens, and our local Jacksonville Beach would rise to the top of my list. As a self proclaimed foodie, I know good food and some hidden gems in our city include; Taste of Miami, Umami, The French Bistro and the Green Tree Cuisine food truck. Those eateries are unsung heroes to my taste buds!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have been nurtured by a powerful village. There are so many people and organizations that have been integral to my growth, but I will do my best to itemize them below;

1. My parents; Lester and Simone Beans
2. My twin sister; Brandy Beans
3. My personal & professional development; The Jackie Robinson Foundation
4. My home away from home; Fisk University
5. My C-suite pathway; The Bluford Healthcare Leadership Institute
6. My mentor and personal cheerleader; Judge Allegra Walker-Birdine
7. My Business Coaches; Nedra & Norman Ali
8. My Intention Circle; you all know who you are

There many, many others, but here is at least a starting list of those who have helped mold me to be who I am today. I am forever grateful to be connected to you.

Website: www.whippedsheanm.com

Instagram: whippedsheanm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhippedShea17

Image Credits
Brittany Beans Nedra Ali

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