We’re looking forward to introducing you to Krista Berardelli. Check out our conversation below.
Krista, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I recently started a nonprofit organization 3 months ago in honor of my father who passed away from brain cancer. My dad was sick most of my life from the age of five so my mom often says I never really met the man she married. That aside, my dad battled some things most people don’t come across in their lifetime from diabetes, seizures and even strokes. So in July of this year Rock to Remember was born. Rock to Remember’s mission is to honor the legacy of Tony Berardelli by amplifying the power of music. We support research, assist families impacted by brain tumors, and ensure that the love of music lives on as a tribute to my dad, who truly rocked our world.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Krista Berardelli, though many know me as Krista in the Valley. Krista in the Valley began as a personal brand during my time with a local outdoor shopping center. What started as a creative outlet quickly took on a life of its own, evolving into a platform that highlights everything I do and experience throughout Lehigh Valley, PA. When I first launched the account, I had no idea it would grow the way it has. My original goal was simply to showcase the different advertising opportunities, event sponsorships, and available storefronts at the outdoor shopping center where I worked. Since that content didn’t quite fit the center’s main feed, I decided to share it on my own—and that’s how Krista in the Valley was started. Fast forward to today, that same platform opened an unexpected door. I was recruited by a local plumbing company, which might sound surprising—I had the same reaction at first! But it was through Krista in the Valley that the company’s owners discovered my work, ultimately creating a Director of Business Development position specifically for me.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I remember as a little girl being drawn to activities like gymnastics, baton twirling, and cheerleading—anything that allowed me to move, learn, and grow. I was always eager to perfect my skills and challenge myself to get better. When I look back at old home videos, I often see myself front and center, completely focused and full of energy. My mom later told me that my instructors noticed that same passion and drive in me. I didn’t realize it at the time, but being in that front spot wasn’t just about performing—it was the beginning of my understanding of leadership. I naturally found myself helping others learn the routines and cheering them on, stepping into a leadership role long before I even knew what that meant. Today, I use that same leadership mentality to feel powerful in my role, in my own skin and in the community. They often say if you don’t believe in yourself, who will? I think a lot of people feel that the word powerful comes off as a negative way to describe themselves, but I don’t. I believe that it is all about how you position your power to your peers and your surroundings to do what’s best for everyone.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
That’s such a great question. Honestly, the last time I truly changed my mind about something significant was when I decided to switch careers—from being a Marketing Director at an outdoor shopping center to becoming a Director of Business Development at a plumbing company. I took several weeks to think it through, even creating a pros and cons list and setting three nonnegotiables that would determine whether I stayed in my role at the shopping center. Ultimately, only one of those nonnegotiatbles were met, but at first, I still decided to stay because it felt safe and familiar. Then, I met with the owner of the plumbing company to share my decision, and during that single 45-minute conversation, everything changed. I realized the opportunity in front of me wasn’t just a new job—it was a chance to grow in ways I hadn’t even imagined. Right there, I completely changed my mind and decided to take the leap. Looking back, my original hesitation came from a place of comfort and fear of change, but that experience taught me that growth rarely happens when things are easy. Sometimes, you have to embrace discomfort to create something better for yourself—and that decision has truly been one of the best choices I’ve ever made.
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. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely — 1,000%! I say that all the time because it’s true. What you see is truly what you get. There’s no curated version or performance happening behind the scenes. I’ve always believed that authenticity is the key to real connection and growth. When I show up—whether it’s online, at an event, or in everyday life—it’s genuinely me. The way I speak, the things I care about, the energy I bring—it all comes from the same place. Of course, anyone can try to present a version of themselves that looks perfect or polished, but that never lasts. People can always sense when something isn’t real. For me, authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of everything I do. It’s how I build relationships, how I approach my work, and how I’ve been able to grow a community that trusts and supports me.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
This might sound like a long shot, but my lifelong dream has always been to become a late-night talk show host. I know—it sounds a bit far-fetched, but I’ve always believed that if your dreams don’t scare you, you’re not dreaming big enough. To me, life is about constantly striving for what excites you. If you’re too comfortable, you stop growing. I’ve hit certain milestones in my life and career where I’ve thought, “Okay, I did it!”—but almost immediately, another voice in my head asks, “Now what?” That question keeps me pushing forward. I have plenty of smaller goals and dreams I plan to accomplish along the way, but if we’re talking about the big, shoot-for-the-stars dream, the one I’d regret never pursuing would be hosting my own talk show. It combines everything I love—connecting with people, storytelling, humor, and creating genuine moments of joy and inspiration. Even if it never happens, it’s the dream that keeps me aiming higher.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristainthevalley/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-berardelli-61ab83a6/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090857785604
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kristainthevalley
Image Credits
Marco Calderon Photography
Elaine Zelker, LLC
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