Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Brandie Janow. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Brandie , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
Currently, I find myself at the heart of a significant transition. I am no longer in the cozy 9-to-5 job that I once had. Now, I am pouring my heart into cultivating something really unique, something that has been missing. Each day is like a brand new adventure. One second, I am learning and growing, the next, I am freaking out, then suddenly, I am filled with so much energy and excitement. It feels like I am on a roller coaster that is both exhilarating and intimidating.
I have been nurturing this venture from its roots, bootstrapping every aspect, and fully investing my savings in both the business and living this past year. There are nights – so many nights – when I cannot sleep. I am up thinking, worrying, planning, and wondering if I have made the right decisions. It is not just a passing thought; it is more like a constant buzz that never leaves.
Yet amidst the crazy whirl of thoughts and sleepless nights, there are tiny bits of confirmation that keep me going. A compliment from a friend, a vote of confidence from a mentor, and a positive reaction from the market. They are like tiny beacons of hope that tell me that I am on the right path. I will not lie; fear and uncertainty are real. However, every time I stumble, every time I doubt, every time I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself of why I took this plunge. It was never about playing it safe, but about making a difference and shaping a space that had been waiting to be filled.
I cannot precisely tell how it will turn out, but one thing is sure: I will not stop chasing this dream. If you are sitting on an idea and fearing the plunge, I say, go for it. Yes, fear is real, and the journey is hard. However, within that fear is a strength you did not know you had and one that hopes to shape me into a better woman.
So, chase that dream, dare to paint those vibrant brushstrokes on your canvas. Do not let your life be filled with ‘what ifs.’
Brandie , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I have been captivated by the world of business and creativity for as long as I remember. This led me to study Design Strategy at a private university in Chicago. Since my graduation, I have been completely immersed in the design and business industries. I have identified a significant gap in this industry over the years, especially in my work in Saudi Arabia. People often overlook the depth of design in terms of its value, and the numerous disciplines it encompasses. Everything is a product of design, and I firmly believe that creativity holds the transformative power to reshape our world. However, creativity alone is insufficient. Understanding business acumen and communicating effectively within the corporate world are essential components of success in this industry.
This year, I felt like I was finally ready to take the next step, that is, when I started Kingdom Creatives, a threefold business model: a digital advisory, a knowledge vault, and the community. All separate, yet undoubtedly are linked. We address the much-overdue gap by providing a unique approach to the entire sector.
We forge new directions with thoroughly tailored memberships for comprehensive and fully digital advisory services. With an adaptable model that allows members to cancel at any time, we eliminate the need for expensive and often inconsistent outside consulting. What sets us apart is our commitment to sustainable business practices in a circular economy. I am keen to shape the digital landscape while remaining ethically and environmentally conscious. Our Knowledge Vault is a significant asset, with research, resources, and indicators centered specifically on the Saudi market. This Vault will be invaluable to both local and global stakeholders. One of the things that brings me the most joy is the opportunity to upset traditional norms and replace them with something sustainable, enhancing the quality of life for people, I believe in a life centric approach after all.
We are also proud to be the gatekeepers of the largest community of creative professionals in Saudi, encompassing a broad network of over 450 members. This close-knit community, paired with our transparent and ethical approaches, provides a reliable guide for success. We have invigorated innovation and cultivated growth. We created an environment in which exceptional discussions could unfold, accumulating an immense wealth of insights and research.
I guess in the end of everything I have achieved; I perhaps take the most pride in the role of mentorship. Sharing what I have learned from my own journey and making someone else a little smoother is incredibly fulfilling.
I hope to instill every innovator with an understanding of their power and the need for continuous learning, collaboration, and transformation. It is essential to never let anyone diminish your unique shine.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
In my journey as an entrepreneur, I have learned a tough but important lesson: Sometimes, I need to put my own feelings aside to help the business grow. My research helped me understand that what I think or feel may not always matter. The facts that the research shows are what truly count. It has been a journey of threading the needle between personal instincts and business needs, a delicate balance that has taught me about strength and determination.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Several years ago, I was part of a team that consulted with “The Saudi Cup”. The entire ethos of this horserace had just undergone a shift. For the first time, the event became a vibrant showcase of community, culture, and fashion. As part of this change, attendees were encouraged to wear Saudi cultural clothing. Being the only American who dressed up was quite a sight, especially with the red hair that I had at that time. My unique appearance caught some attention, and I soon found myself featured in numerous magazines and news channels.
At that moment, I understood that this was an opportunity. Although I had never planned to be very active on social media, I wanted to make my mark as a businesswoman. My advice on building a social media presence would be to always be ready to seize opportunities. Do not wait for them to come to you; instead, carve your path out. Be genuine, roll up your sleeves, and put in the hard work—it truly goes a long way.
Contact Info:
- Website: kingdomcreatives.io
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/___smuug/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandiejanow/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/iambrandieleigh