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💡 Meet Bryanna Samuels, Dynamic Financial and Fashion Powerhouse

Bryanna Samuels is a passionate venture capital investor and business owner. Bryanna started her career in investment banking and then transitioned to a career in late-stage venture capital investing where she deployed capital across a whole host of industries. In December 2023, Bryanna launched her own sustainable women’s workwear business called Good Rapport. Not only is Good Rapport a clothing brand, but it is also a community of empowered women empowering others to be agents of change, forces of progress, and beacons of light in and out of the workplace. Passionate about finance and making it more accessible, Bryanna mentors young women looking to gain internships on Wall Street through the non-profit, ibRecruit, and supports organizations such as Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (SEO).

💬 What does women empowerment mean to you? Why is it important?

Bryanna Samuels: To me, as the owner of Good Rapport New York, women empowerment means fostering an inclusive community where women are supported, celebrated, and given equal opportunities to thrive. It's important because empowering women not only drives social and economic progress but also enriches our collective creativity and innovation, which are vital for a sustainable and impactful future

💬 Tell us about a woman who has influenced your career and how their guidance has impacted your professional growth.

Bryanna Samuels: It’s hard to pick just woman that has influenced my career given my multi-faceted nature. I like to take qualities and characteristics from several inspirational woman to help chart my own path and inspiration bank. Here a couple of my influences by industry:

• Fashion Writing: Sophia Li

• Fashion Content: Shelcy & Christy (nycxclothes)

• Fashion Brand Owner: Negin Mirsalehi

• Finance - Venture Capital: Arianne Simone

• Finance - Financial Literacy: Jessica Inskip

• Professional and Personal Development: Jodi Glickman

Their guidance and examples have significantly impacted my professional growth, providing diverse insights and motivations that shape my journey.

💬 How do you handle work-related stress and pressure, and what techniques or practices do you use to maintain your well-being while pursuing a successful career?

Bryanna Samuels: Stress is inevitable, so it's crucial to understand what triggers your nervous system dysregulation. When I get stressed and notice my body reacting adversely, I rely on my core self-care principles: journaling, daily affirmations, eating three healthy meals or consistently snacking on nutrient-dense items, and moving my body through long walks or Pilates classes. These practices help me maintain my well-being and stay grounded while pursuing a successful career.

💬 Can you share any lessons or insights you have gained from failures or setbacks in your career, and how you have turned them into opportunities for growth and learning?

Bryanna Samuels: I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason and that our outlook plays a crucial role in shaping what happens next. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but developing resilience is essential. When faced with a setback, immediately identify the key lessons learned so you can improve in the future. This approach not only helps you let go of negative experiences but also prevents similar issues from arising again. Next, identify the new opportunity at hand. For example, if an event gets rescheduled, it might initially seem negative, but the extra time can lead to better planning and potentially a higher turnout.

💬 Can you share any strategies or tips for building a successful network and fostering meaningful professional relationships that have helped you in your career?

Bryanna Samuels: Networking is crucial because hard work alone will only get you part of the way, especially in business. To build a successful network and foster meaningful professional relationships, focus on three key aspects: authenticity, confidence, and clear communication.

Authenticity: Be genuine in your interactions. People can sense when you are being sincere, and building trust is the foundation of any strong relationship. Show a real interest in others and be yourself.

Confidence: Believe in your value and what you bring to the table. Confidence attracts others and helps establish your credibility. This doesn't mean being overbearing but rather showing that you are competent and sure of your abilities.

Clear Communication: Articulate your ideas and goals effectively. Clear communication ensures that your message is understood and appreciated. It also involves active listening, which demonstrates respect and fosters deeper connections.

Additionally, leverage social media and professional platforms like LinkedIn to maintain and expand your network. Attend industry events, join relevant groups, and seek opportunities to collaborate. Always follow up with contacts, showing appreciation for their time and insights, and look for ways to provide value to them as well. By focusing on these strategies, you can build a robust and supportive professional network that can significantly enhance your career.

💬 What strategies or tactics do you use for setting and achieving your career goals, and how do you stay motivated and focused on your objectives?

Bryanna Samuels: To be successful in goal setting, it's crucial to engage both your visual and auditory senses. Visualize your goals clearly, breaking them down into smaller milestones that lead to your ultimate objective. Additionally, reinforce these goals by hearing them daily, whether through affirmations, reminders, or discussions.

A key strategy is to develop and maintain a strong sense of self-trust. Trust yourself and your abilities to achieve your goals regardless of the circumstances or environment. This self-trust is foundational; it fuels your confidence and resilience, enabling you to stay motivated and focused.

Moreover, create a structured plan with specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Regularly review your progress and adjust your strategies as needed. Surround yourself with supportive and like-minded individuals who can provide encouragement and constructive feedback. Celebrate your successes along the way to maintain motivation and recognize your hard work and progress. By combining visualization, auditory reinforcement, self-trust, and a structured approach, you can effectively set and achieve your career goals.

💬 What motivated you to choose your current career field, and what do you find most fulfilling about your work?

Bryanna Samuels: I have always been interested in finance, dating back to high school where I took several business-related courses and participated in case competitions. My career on Wall Street crystallized during my sophomore year in university when I secured my first 10-week investment banking internship. This experience helped me discover my true passion for venture capital investing, which is what I do now.

When it comes to fashion, I was always the one experimenting with different styles and aesthetics in high school. I decided to fully embrace my creative side partway through my finance career, which led me to start my own brand.

In finance, the most rewarding aspect of my job is helping passionate people build impactful, industry-changing businesses. In fashion, I view clothing as a powerful way to unify people around a common cause. Through Good Rapport, I love uplifting women, forming a like-minded community, and making them feel their most confident.

💬 Can you discuss any specific trends or changes in your industry that you see impacting careers, and how you are preparing to adapt to these changes?

Bryanna Samuels: The venture capital ecosystem is normalizing from the peak observed in 2021 and early 2022. Private company valuations have been reset, making fundraising incredibly tough for both founders and general partners. Given this cyclical holding pattern, many companies unable to raise additional venture capital are going out of business, and venture capital teams are being highly selective in expanding their teams. We are currently in a wait-and-see period that will only improve with a significant increase in IPO and M&A market activity.

Investors are focused on building a resilient portfolio by investing in companies with strong fundamentals and sustainable growth strategies. Additionally, I am staying informed about market trends and maintaining a flexible approach to capitalize on emerging opportunities. In my fashion business, I am prioritizing sustainability and exclusivity, aligning with consumer demand for responsible and unique products. By staying agile and informed, I can navigate the evolving landscape and continue to thrive in both industries.

💬 What advice do you have for individuals who are starting their careers or looking to make a career change, based on your own experiences and lessons learned?

Bryanna Samuels: When starting your career or making a career change, it's crucial to understand the difference between a career sponsor and a mentor, and to seek out both. A career sponsor is someone within your organization who can vouch for your work and help you navigate the internal landscape. They can provide you with opportunities and advocate for your advancement. On the other hand, a mentor, often outside your firm, can offer broader guidance, helping you define your unique career path and providing insights from their own experiences. Both roles are essential for professional growth and success, so actively seek out and cultivate these relationships.

💬 How do you approach professional development and continuous learning to enhance your skills and stay relevant in your industry?

Bryanna Samuels: I approach professional development and continuous learning with a multifaceted strategy. Given my diverse interests in finance, fashion, and entrepreneurship, I stay relevant by actively engaging in industry-specific trends and updates. I regularly seek out opportunities such as industry conferences, webinars, and podcasts to gain new insights and perspectives.

In finance, I focus on understanding evolving market dynamics and adapting my strategies accordingly. For fashion, I stay updated on emerging trends and consumer preferences to keep my brand aligned with market demands. I also prioritize personal growth by practicing self-care and maintaining a balanced perspective on my career and personal life.

Additionally, I leverage my network of mentors and peers, learning from their experiences and advice. Embracing the intersection of my passions helps me continuously innovate and adapt, ensuring that I remain at the forefront of my industries. This holistic approach to professional development allows me to enhance my skills and stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.

💬 Can you discuss any significant achievements or accomplishments in your career that you are particularly proud of and what you learned from those experiences?

Bryanna Samuels: I was recently featured on the Yahoo Finance podcast, "Stocks in Translation," where I had the opportunity to discuss my passions: finance, fashion, and entrepreneurship. Public speaking and exploring the intersections of these three areas is something I deeply enjoy, making this experience perfectly aligned with my interests. Through this experience, it reinforced the importance of being a multifaceted professional. Embracing and integrating diverse passions not only broadens my perspective but also enhances my ability to innovate and connect with a wider audience. It reminded me that pursuing varied interests can lead to unique insights and opportunities, ultimately driving personal and professional growth.

💬 How do you balance your career ambitions with other aspects of your life, such as family, hobbies, and personal well-being?

Bryanna Samuels: Balancing career ambitions with other aspects of life involves understanding your priorities and setting clear boundaries. Currently, I am in a career-focused chapter of my life, which means my professional goals take top priority. To maintain this pace, I also prioritize self-care to ensure my well-being. As a result, my personal life, including social activities and time with friends, takes a backseat. I recognize that this is a temporary phase and that there will be opportunities in the future to spend more time with loved ones. Life is about making trade-offs and understanding what is best for you at each stage. By maintaining this perspective, I can stay focused on my goals while knowing that balance will shift as circumstances evolve.

💬 Are there any specific books, podcasts, email newsletters, thought leaders/influencers, or training courses/programs that you would recommend for personal or professional growth?

Bryanna Samuels: At this time I love listening to podcasts and reading newsletters. I recommend the following if you are interested in venture capital and the consumer space:

• Maggies Sellers - Hot Smart Rich

• Doone Roisin - Female Startup Club

• Jasmine Garnsworthy - Female Founder

• World Ruffin Mitchener - Brydge Club

Like this? For more personal and professional development tips follow Miss EmpowHer on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Want to learn more about Bryanna Samuels? Click here to connect with her on LinkedIn!

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