Brandi is photographed wearing our Montecito Classic Pullover Sweater in White and our Eamon Jogger Sweatpant in White.

FRANK & EILEEN: In On Thriving, you talk about the idea of "thriving" versus just surviving. Can you elaborate on what thriving means to you? How do you hope readers will take this message into their daily lives?

BRANDI: Thriving is the conscious choice to let the waves carry us forward. It’s a deep breath, a pause to ask ourselves, “What do I need right here, in this moment?” Thriving is knowing that the waves of life are here to carry us, not bury us. My hope is that readers will take a moment to breathe and ask themselves, “What do I need to thrive in the space I’m in?”
FRANK & EILEEN: In On Thriving, you talk about the idea of "thriving" versus just surviving. Can you elaborate on what thriving means to you? How do you hope readers will take this message into their daily lives?

BRANDI: Thriving is the conscious choice to let the waves carry us forward. It’s a deep breath, a pause to ask ourselves, “What do I need right here, in this moment?” Thriving is knowing that the waves of life are here to carry us, not bury us. My hope is that readers will take a moment to breathe and ask themselves, “What do I need to thrive in the space I’m in?”
F&E: You also talk about how self-compassion is foundational to the journey of thriving. What advice would you offer to women, especially when they feel they need to be constantly "on" for others?

BRANDI: Yes, those who love you need you. However, you need you. We can only extend the compassion and love for others that we first give to ourselves. We are our first love. I know it’s difficult at times to show self-grace and self-compassion, but it’s a muscle that grows stronger the more we access it.
F&E: You also talk about how self-compassion is foundational to the journey of thriving. What advice would you offer to women, especially when they feel they need to be constantly "on" for others?

BRANDI: Yes, those who love you need you. However, you need you. We can only extend the compassion and love for others that we first give to ourselves. We are our first love. I know it’s difficult at times to show self-grace and self-compassion, but it’s a muscle that grows stronger the more we access it.

Brandi is photographed wearing our Montecito Classic Pullover Sweater in White and our Eamon Jogger Sweatpant in White.

Brandi is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in Black Famous Denim and our Montecito Classic Pullover Sweater in Black.

F&E: Your work and words have helped so many women find their own paths toward resilience and self-care. What message do you hope women will take away from your journey?

BRANDI: I want women to know that we are worthy of all the good. I understand that trauma can rob us of that sense of worthiness. Thriving begins with the shift in truly believing that we are worthy. In fact, I say this because, despite our life experiences–and even our trauma–who else is more deserving of joy finding its way to our doorstep? You are not your trauma.
F&E: Your work and words have helped so many women find their own paths toward resilience and self-care. What message do you hope women will take away from your journey?

BRANDI: I want women to know that we are worthy of all the good. I understand that trauma can rob us of that sense of worthiness. Thriving begins with the shift in truly believing that we are worthy. In fact, I say this because, despite our life experiences–and even our trauma–who else is more deserving of joy finding its way to our doorstep? You are not your trauma.

F&E: At Frank & Eileen, we embrace the idea of 'Enter as Strangers, Leave as Friends' as a guiding value, which resonates deeply with your insights on the transformative power of community in On Thriving. How have you found and nurtured supportive communities in your own life, and what advice would you offer others on fostering genuine connections in today’s busy world?

BRANDI: I believe that community is key to our thriving. We are not meant to go through life alone. That being said, I know for certain that when we actively seek out authentic community, it will find its way to us. The same is true for kindness. In On Thriving, I recommend going “kindness watching”–actively seeking kindness out. You want community? Seek it. Look for it. And remember that it’s not about numbers. It’s not about whether your community is big or small–it’s about quality connections over quantity.

F&E: You radiate such incredible style and joy in everything you do. What role does style play in your overall sense of well-being and thriving, and how do you decide what to wear to feel your best?

BRANDI: I see getting dressed as a sort of ritual. I ask myself, “How would I like to show up?” (Note: This is different from asking, “How do I need to show up?”) My style is my way of reclaiming who I want to be and all that I am, freedom and all.

Brandi is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in Black Famous Denim, our Montecito Classic Pullover Sweater in Black, and our Bella Italian Sweatpant in Black.

F&E: How would you describe your personal style, and what are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?

BRANDI: I would describe my style as intentional. My style is uniquely my own. My favorite staple is Frank & Eileen’s Shirley button-up! It’s a classic and a repeat for sure!
F&E: How would you describe your personal style, and what are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe?

BRANDI: I would describe my style as intentional. My style is uniquely my own. My favorite staple is Frank & Eileen’s Shirley button-up! It’s a classic and a repeat for sure!
F&E: What’s one piece of advice you wish you had known earlier in your career, especially when it comes to maintaining balance and thriving in all aspects of life?

BRANDI: Thriving looks different from day to day. Some days, it’s as simple as getting my kids out the door in time for school, and other times it looks more momentous, like writing a book or hosting a retreat. Either way, it’s all thriving. It’s all a win. Thriving means gathering both the small and the significant, holding each with the same love, tenderness, and value it deserves. It all matters.
F&E: What’s one piece of advice you wish you had known earlier in your career, especially when it comes to maintaining balance and thriving in all aspects of life?

BRANDI: Thriving looks different from day to day. Some days, it’s as simple as getting my kids out the door in time for school, and other times it looks more momentous, like writing a book or hosting a retreat. Either way, it’s all thriving. It’s all a win. Thriving means gathering both the small and the significant, holding each with the same love, tenderness, and value it deserves. It all matters.

Brandi is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in Black Famous Denim, our Montecito Classic Pullover Sweater in Black, and our Bella Italian Sweatpant in Black.

Thanks for cozying up for 'a cuppa with' Brandi!

To keep up with Brandi and her latest work:
@bstereo

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