We recently had the chance to connect with Megan Blaising and have shared our conversation below.
Megan , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Imposter Syndrome. I often struggle with the idea of “why” I am sitting at tables. I learned that focusing too much on the “why” makes you miss out on the “what.” So, forget why the seat was offered and start ensuring they remember who filled it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I serve as a State Government Capture Manager for Optum where I leverage strategic insight and policy expertise to drive innovative solutions for public-sector partnerships and contracts. I am also the author of the memoir Blunts, Bullets, and Belligerence – a candid exploration of resilience and the systemic chaos within our education system. Additionally, I actively contribute to community advancement by holding seats on three organizational boards working diligently to generate visibility and impact. I am also a doctoral candidate positioned to defend my dissertation on women in formal authority positions this fall.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Good question, deep question. So, I realized at a young age that I didn’t like seeing people feel small or invisible. I never understood the whole “bully” ideology. That said, I would mightily advocate for others and not as much for myself. I spoke boldly and loudly for others but spoke softly, if at all, for myself. I realized that advocacy for self mattered just as much. I have fully owned this – call it healing, call it fed up… call it what you will.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell her that she is more than enough and she is going do achieve every single thing she decided to pursue – and that is an incredible thing to be able to definitively say.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Spend time with those you love, and most importantly, be present while doing it. You don’t get time back. We get one life to live here so make it everything you want it to be. Also, I would say to always move in a way that you would make you proud when you look back. Integrity over ease.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I am doing what I was born to do. And that is such a blessing to say out loud. I started in direct care as a clinician in the school systems, to school reform work, to advancement and development work… all to end up using that experience to continue to generating impact on a macro-level. I believe I was called to work with and for people.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @megan.blaising
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/meganeblaising
Image Credits
Photo Credit: Nick Blaising Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
