We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Aimee Brigham. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Aimee below.
Aimee, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Resilience is a word often tossed around, but for me, it’s embodied by one person: my mother. She’s a woman who has faced life’s challenges head-on, weathering storm after storm with grace, determination, and an unshakable strength.
Her journey hasn’t been easy. At just 16, she lost her father. Her mother, left to raise four children on a secretary’s salary, leaned heavily on her as the eldest daughter. My mom stepped up, balancing her responsibilities at school while helping her mother around the house.
Then came another trial. At 40, her world turned upside down when my father—her husband—left. Once again, she shouldered the weight of our family, this time as a single mother. Determined to keep us in our childhood home, she took on three jobs. Despite the grueling schedule, she never once let her struggles show. Around us, she was all smiles and warmth, shielding us from the heaviness of her burden.
And just when life could have offered her a break, it dealt her another blow. At 50, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Yet, even then, her toughness shone through. She powered through chemotherapy while continuing to work—and even found time for her beloved spinning classes. No complaints. No self-pity. Just unwavering resolve, one step at a time, day after day.
Through her actions, my mother taught me what resilience truly looks like. It’s about showing up, even when the odds are stacked against you. It’s about moving forward, no matter how slow or painful the steps might be. She didn’t just tell me to be strong; she showed me, every single day.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
One of the things I’m most excited about right now is working with Portland’s vibrant small business community. Small businesses are the backbone of America—they create spaces where people connect, learn, and share experiences. Whether shopping, receiving services, or seeking advice, small businesses bring communities together in a way that big corporations simply can’t replicate.
Portland’s neighborhoods take this connection to the next level. Many small businesses here are within walking distance of people’s homes, fostering a sense of locality and sustainability. This walkable culture not only reduces our environmental impact but also strengthens local economies by providing jobs and keeping money within the community.
What makes small businesses truly special, though, is their heart. Every small business owner I’ve met is deeply passionate about what they do. They are experts in their fields, offering personalized services and unique products that reflect their creativity and care. Unlike large companies, small businesses have the flexibility and intuition to meet individual needs effortlessly, making every customer feel valued.
Portland’s small business community isn’t just about commerce—it’s about connection, innovation, and identity. I’m inspired by the incredible people behind these businesses and grateful to contribute to a thriving local economy that brings so much joy to our city.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I’m deeply grateful for the education I’ve received and for my steadfast commitment to taking learning seriously. Education has shaped who I am, not just in terms of knowledge but also in how I approach life—with curiosity, determination, and a love for growth.
What I value most is that learning doesn’t end in the classroom. It’s a lifelong journey. I’m still just as eager to explore new ideas, challenge myself, and expand my horizons as I was during my formal studies. Keeping an open mind and embracing flexible thinking patterns have been invaluable tools in adapting to change, solving problems, and connecting with others.
In a constantly evolving world, the ability to keep learning is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Learning is not just about acquiring skills or knowledge—it’s about staying curious, resilient, and ready for whatever comes next.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When life feels overwhelming, I’ve learned that movement is my best medicine. Depending on the day, the time, or even the weather, I turn to different activities to release that pent-up energy. Sometimes, it’s a vigorous run to blow off steam—feeling the ground beneath my feet and letting the rhythm of the run clear my head. Other times, it’s a Qi Gong class, where I focus on gentle, mindful movements that help quiet my mind and recenter my energy.
For me, the key is consistency. Regular exercise and meditation are essential to keeping my body and mind in sync. They not only help me manage stress but also give me the clarity and perspective to navigate the small frustrations and challenges that daily life inevitably brings.
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