Branding Room Only with Paula T. Edgar

1:06 - Why Rudhir sees personal branding like a storefront and how he identifies his mission5:07 - Rudhir’s favorite quote and the connection between self-expression and authenticity (particularly in relation to executive presence)7:48 - Rudhir’s hype songs and the impact that practicing gratitude can have on you and your brand11:53 - Rudhir’s background and how he transitioned from law firm partner to his current role15:20 - How Rudhir integrated mindfulness practices into his legal career and its impact on how he showed up as a professional24:17 - Why we lean into business development and the first step toward attaining future success for junior attorneys33:35 - The importance of investing in relationships in legal practice and building trust in business development43:20 - The hangup you might have about self-promotion and resources to help you start your mindfulness journey49:32 - Outer action you can take for business development that’ll make the marketing and branding work easier50:50 - What Rudhir does for fun, what he’ll never compromise on brand-wise, and what he offers others as a Branding Room Only experienceMentioned In Mindfulness, Leadership, and the Power of Authentic Branding with Rudhir KrishtelRudhir Krishtel | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Twitter/X“The New Rules of Executive Presence” by Sylvia Ann Hewlett | Harvard Business ReviewThe Artist’s Way by Julia CameronAccess Rudhir’s Guided MeditationsPaula’s Annual Intention and Goal Setting Webinar for 2025Personal Branding Strategy SessionsSubscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTubeSponsor for this episodeThis episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

In a world where success often feels scripted, Morenike Williams knows the power of rewriting your own story. As a seasoned executive turned CEO of Revision Coaching, she’s redefining what fulfillment means on her terms. As a coach, she helps others do the same by combining her real-world experience with intentional, personalized strategies.In this episode of Branding Room Only, Morenike and I dive into the importance of emotional intelligence, feedback, and authentic communication for building a personal brand that truly resonates. Together, we unpack how emotional intelligence goes beyond self-awareness, why feedback is an invaluable tool—even when it’s difficult to hear—and how clear, direct communication can elevate your professional impact. This conversation will inspire you to dig deeper into your personal brand and approach each step of your journey with authenticity and purpose.1:14 - What personal brand means to Morenike, how she defines herself in three words, the Dolly Parton quote she loves, and her go-to hype song(s)6:14 - How Morenike’s childhood as a Black girl in Tampa proper shaped her work ethic and the way she navigates spaces12:03 - How Morenike’s experiences as a kid in navigating spaces as “other” led to her college and career path17:48 - The importance of having emotional intelligence and how the lack of it can make or break your brand23:54 - Morenike’s advice for anyone struggling to do the emotional intelligence work needed to move forward32:10 - How the way you receive feedback (verbally and non-verbally) can impact others’ view of you and your brand38:01 - Why who you receive feedback from can be a challenge and how to apply filters to sift through the feedback you get42:57 - How passive-aggressiveness in your communication impacts your brand and ability to navigate the spaces you occupy49:11 - Two brand aspects that Morenike will always stand by and the unique sauce that is her Branding Room Only magicMentioned In Navigating Feedback, Branding, and EQ in Leadership with Morenike WilliamsRevision Coaching | LinkedIn | Instagram | FacebookPetty Branding Series:What It Is and How It Impacts Your LeadershipLessons from a Leadership MisstepNavigating Ego and Embracing Constructive FeedbackAccess Paula’s Recommended Coaches of ColorPersonal Branding Strategy SessionsSubscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTubeSponsor for this episodePGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

Do you ever feel like you’re holding back your voice to fit in, get along, or simply navigate your day? Silence can be an invisible barrier—one that affects us personally, professionally, and generationally, especially for those from marginalized communities. Elaine Lin Hering understands this deeply. As an immigrant, she’s navigated the unspoken expectations of silence and has learned to reclaim her voice. Now, as a USA Today best-selling author and expert on communication and conflict management, Elaine is helping others unlearn the silence that holds them back.In this episode of Branding Room Only, Elaine and I explore the costs of silence and how it shows up in marginalized communities, at work, and even in our closest relationships. She shares insights from her book Unlearning Silence, breaking down how silence can stifle not only our voices but also our personal brands. Together, we’ll discuss how to recognize and unlearn silence, embrace your inherent worth, and use your voice authentically to show up fully as yourself.1:01 - Elaine’s personal brand definition, how she’d describe herself, the mantra she currently holds onto, and her hype song4:11 - How Elaine’s upbringing and career path served as the inspiration behind Unlearning Silence8:50 - How silence shows up in women of color and other marginalized identities and what that might mean for their brands14:15 - The unintentional silencing of others that occurs and the difference between strategic versus oppressive silence19:42 - How to start owning your voice in spaces where you want to be heard and the importance of unlearning generational silence27:28 - The one question Elaine asks her clients that she wishes she didn’t have to and the issue with “imposter syndrome” framing32:16 - Self-silencing as a learned condition and trauma response35:14 - How silence can be very detrimental to your brand-building and personal relationships44:34 - Elaine’s message and advice for those with marginalized identities trying to be resilient in spaces contributing to their continued silence49:09 - What Elaine does for fun, the part of her brand she’ll always stand by, and the Branding Room Only experience she providesMentioned In How Unlearning Silence Saves Your Brand from Sabotage with Elaine Lin HeringElaine Lin Hering | LinkedIn | InstagramUnlearning Silence: How to Speak Your Mind, Unleash Talent, and Live More Fully by Elaine Lin Hering“Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter Syndrome” by Ruchika Tulshyan and Jodi-Ann Burey | Harvard Business ReviewSubscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTubeSponsor for this episodePGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

This year, we’ve been lucky to hear from some truly incredible guests on the show. Each conversation brought unique insights and thoughtful lessons about the power and nuances of personal branding. As we wind down 2024 and look toward the new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the moments that have stood out most.In this episode of Branding Room Only, I’m revisiting some of my favorite guest insights and the messages that inspired me most this year. From strategies to reimagine your brand to stories that challenged how I think about success, I’ll highlight the conversations that left a lasting impact—and I hope they’ll inspire you as much as they’ve inspired me.1:08 - Favorite guest insights on resilience, networking, and workplace communication2:48 - Guests with powerful insights on advocacy, managing, authentic storytelling, and navigating difficult conversations4:55 - Guests who best illustrate how creativity and the arts intersect with personal branding6:16 - Guests who brought their unique perspectives on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)8:57 - Reflections on two special episodes released this year that are close to my heartMentioned In Guests I'm Grateful For in 2024: Reflecting on Favorite Moments and MessagesLinks for Each Episode MentionedPersonal Branding Strategy SessionsSubscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTubeSponsor for this episodeThis episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

In a world where personal branding can shape our careers and amplify our voices, storytelling becomes a powerful tool for self-expression and impact. As a professional and advocate, I believe it's more important than ever to own and share our unique stories to connect, inspire, and lead with purpose.In this episode of Branding Room Only, I’m joined by Jerry Won, an inspiring storyteller, keynote speaker, and founder of World Class Speakers, the Asian Creator Awards, and the Dear Asian Americans podcast. Jerry’s work resonates with me as he focuses on making everyone feel seen and heard through storytelling, empowering others to take their place on the stage with confidence and authenticity.We discuss Jerry’s journey—from immigrating to the United States and navigating cultural expectations to breaking free from traditional paths and building platforms that amplify underrepresented voices. Join us as we explore the duty to “get loud” with our stories, the importance of embracing identity, and practical strategies for building a brand that’s both powerful and authentically you.1:12 - How Jerry defines personal branding 5:33 - The moment Jerry bet on himself and decided to anchor his career in his own story7:36 - Why context in advice matters, especially for marginalized communities who are often misled by one-size-fits-all success stories13:52 - Jerry's "duty to get loud"—why sharing your experiences helps others avoid struggling alone22:03 - Jerry’s experience emigrating from Korea to California at 8 years old and the impact it had on his choices as a parent35:23 - Building a business during the pandemic, the challenges Jerry faced, and how storytelling played a key role in his success47:27 - How the next generation is breaking racial barriers, and why supporting them is more important than ever52:47 - The one thing Jerry will never compromise on: staying true to himself, honoring his ancestors, and setting an example for future generationsMentioned In Building an Empowered Brand Through Storytelling with Jerry WonJerry Won | World Class Speakers | LinkedInDear Asian Americans PodcastAsian Creator AwardsThe Memo by Minda Harts Minda Harts on The Branding Room OnlyThe Anti-Ableist Manifesto by Tiffany YuSubscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTubeSponsor for this episodeThis episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

Grief and disappointment are inevitable parts of life, impacting us both personally and professionally. No matter what you're navigating, whether it's the grief of losing a loved one, the disappointment of a missed opportunity, not passing the bar, the end of a relationship, or even the outcomes of an election that feel disheartening, we all at some point have to face grief and disappointment. I believe it’s essential to acknowledge these challenges openly, especially in the context of personal branding. In this unique episode of Branding Room Only, I explore the influence of grief and setbacks on how we present ourselves to the world and I reflect on how handling grief and disappointment can impact our personal brand. Together, we’ll navigate the emotional toll of these experiences and explore strategies for moving forward authentically.1:04 – Understanding the importance of taking a pause and allowing oneself to process emotions2:04 – Balancing professionalism and vulnerability in times of personal difficulty3:36 – The power of transparency and how it builds trust4:23 – The role of a “personal board of directors” in navigating hard times6:09 – Viewing vulnerability as a strength and allowing it to evolve your brand7:15 – Realigning your goals and expectations after experiencing lossHow Navigating Grief Impacts Your Personal BrandHow to Assemble and Leverage Your Personal Board of DirectorsThe Life & Legacy of Joan Donna Griffith: A Conversation with Peter Griffith (Part 1)The Life & Legacy of Joan Donna Griffith: A Conversation with Peter Griffith (Part 2)Subscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTubeSponsor for this episodeThis episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

Elections shape the future of our democracy, and their impact on our lives is undeniable. As a Black woman, lawyer, leader, and mother, I see it not just as part of my brand but as my duty to bring essential conversations forward, especially as we approach this pivotal Election Day.In this episode of Branding Room Only, I’m joined by Alphonso David, a trailblazing civil rights and economic justice leader, and the president and CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum. Alphonso’s work and his powerful message resonate deeply at this crucial time. We explore his remarkable career advocating for Black and marginalized communities and discuss the significant issues at stake in this election.1:58 - Alphonso’s definition of a personal brand, himself in a single sentence, two quotes he often goes back to, and his hype songs5:54 - How a devastating childhood experience in Liberia shaped Alphonso’s brand and commitment to social justice10:44 - Alphonso’s through line and career path leading up to becoming president of the Global Black Economic Forum17:37 - The Fearless Fund court case and how it exposes ongoing systemic inequity in the U.S.26:39 - The singular concept that should be at the forefront for Black or Black-adjacent people this election32:54 - How the Forum’s work intercepts with priorities of greater equity and freedom for the Black community36:01 - Why it’s important to think through the lens of community (and history) rather than through the lens of the self41:19 - All the things Alphonso does for fun, what he will never compromise on, and the unique experience that he provides for othersMentioned In Why This Election Matters: A Conversation with Alphonso DavidAlphonso David | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | TwitterGlobal Black Economic ForumLambda LegalFearless FundSubscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTubeSponsor for this episodeThis episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

The clothes you wear aren’t just about style—they’re an extension of your personal brand. My guest, Naana Badu, firmly believes this, and I couldn’t agree more! Naana is an image consultant, speaker, and style coach with a unique ability to help women express their authentic selves through fashion. As the founder of Badu Basics, she works with high-achieving women of color to transform their wardrobes into powerful reflections of their personal brands.Naana’s approach focuses on helping her clients align their style with their personal brand in a way that feels intentional and authentic. She shares practical advice on how you can evaluate your own wardrobe and brand to make sure they’re working in harmony, offering tips you can implement right away to make impactful changes.In this episode of Branding Room Only, Naana dives deep into why it’s crucial to align your style with your brand and how doing so can influence the way you’re perceived, both personally and professionally. She walks us through the framework she uses with clients to ensure their style reflects their brand’s message, and shares her own journey of building an authentic personal brand.1:19 - What personal branding means to Naana, herself in three words, the quote resonating for her right now, and her hype music4:28 - The dual situation Naana faced growing up and learning to embrace the uniqueness of difference8:30 - Naana’s career transitions and how she has always seen style as a difference-maker15:32 - How Naana collaborates with others to help them find their authentic personal style in different areas of their lives21:25 - Working with men and the framework Naana uses to help clients transition their wardrobe24:54 - How Naana builds trust with her clients and her belief in women hyping each other up30:36 - How Naana has built her personal styling and image consultancy brand37:19 - How the pandemic shifted people’s view and sense of their personal style40:33 - Naana explains the ABCDs of image and how she teaches image consulting to FIT students45:39 - Naana’s advice for what you can do to build your brand right now48:50 - What Naana does for fun and her uncompromisable brand aspect and magicMentioned In How Your Personal Style Aligns With Your Brand with Naana BaduBadu Basics | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubePicture Perfect: Paula’s Rules for Capturing Your Personal Brand with the Right PhotosFashion Institute of Technology (FIT)Toastmasters InternationalSponsor for this episodePGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

Do you think that not focusing on building a brand means that someone doesn’t have one? You always have a personal brand, whether you realize it or not! So you must be intentional about yours.Many lawyers haven’t been taught about branding. Luckily, experts like my guest Elise Holtzman are dedicated to helping attorneys develop their businesses and brands.Elise is a former lawyer turned coach. As the CEO of The Lawyer’s Edge, she and her team have spent over 15 years working exclusively with lawyers and law firms to help them become better business developers and leaders and grow thriving practices.In this episode of the Branding Room Only podcast, you’ll hear about Elise’s journey from pre-med to lawyer to coach. You’ll also learn how effective communication through coaching, podcasting, and volunteerism has impacted her brand and business development. She also highlights the value and importance of understanding and adapting to different communication styles and personalities.00:55 - How Elise defines personal brand and describes herself and her favorite quote from Jack Canfield4:25 - Elise’s upbringing, why she pivoted from premed to law, and the rewards of practicing law11:58 - Why Elise left law, how doing so affected her brand, and how she transitioned into coaching19:45 - Elise’s passion for business development and how she started building her brand and business24:02 - How leadership and volunteerism have helped Elise build her brand (and can do the same for yours)27:27 - How the coaching process has influenced the way Elise has built her brand and helped her clients33:13 - The biggest lesson learned about branding and business development from hosting a podcast40:02 - The importance of effective communication, understanding personality types, and communication challenges that can crop up47:05 - Two uncompromisable core values of Elise’s brand and what nakedness has to do with her Branding Room Only superpower Mentioned In How Effective Communication Impacts Business and Brand Development with Elise HoltzmanThe Lawyer’s Edge Ignite Women’s Business Development AcceleratorPaula Edgar | How to Boldly Be YOU in Everything You Do - The Lawyer’s Edge PodcastThe Success Principles Workbook by Jack CanfieldGet Slightly Famous: Become a Celebrity in Your Field and Attract more Business With Less Effort by Steven Van YoderNew York City Bar AssociationLegal Marketing AssociationNew Jersey Women Lawyers AssociationTypeCoachSponsor for this episodePGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

If you want to leverage your skills for entrepreneurial success, Lauren Maillian’s story is a masterclass in turning opportunities into long-term growth. Starting at just 19, Lauren didn’t pursue modeling for fame; she used it as a springboard to invest in real estate and launch her career in business and investing.As the founder of LMB Group, a strategic advisory firm partnering with high-growth consumer brands, Lauren has built a career on innovation and leadership. From owning a vineyard to advising startups and writing a best-selling book, she has paved the way for women in business. Lauren’s journey highlights the importance of core values, confidence, and continuous learning for anyone aspiring to create lasting impact.In this episode of the Branding Room Only podcast, Lauren shares how to harness momentum and build confidence as an entrepreneur or investor. You'll hear her expert advice on breaking into entrepreneurship, navigating venture capital, and using your talent and expertise to fuel personal and professional growth.00:57 - Lauren’s personal brand definition, three words to describe her brand, and the importance of aligning your brand with your core values and life experiences4:21 - Lauren’s long-time mantras and the music she listens to when she needs to be innovative and channel her energy12:14 - How the influences of her grandmother and parents shaped Lauren growing up as an only child on the Upper East Side of Manhattan17:50 - How Lauren successfully got into real estate investment at a young age and used her capital to help other entrepreneurs build their brands and businesses23:48 - The importance of collaborating with founders and how Lauren’s experience influenced her model for providing value to companies28:58 - What has stayed consistent about Lauren’s brand throughout the different iterations of her firm and how she’s applied it to her personal life as well32:27 - How Lauren has leveraged volunteer leadership opportunities to continue to build her brand38:31 - Advice for brand-building through smart questions and business conversations as a woman of color looking to break into entrepreneurism or venture capitalism43:07 - How Lauren’s improvement in her tennis game translates to business and leadership growth and success48:38 - The importance of confidence and how Lauren learned to “go forth unafraid” and gain confidence in herselfMentioned In How Lauren Maillian Turned Personal Branding into a Strategic Career AssetLauren MaillianLMB Group on LinkedInThe Path Redefined by Lauren MaillianThe Apollo TheaterChildren’s Aid Society (NYC)This episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.