We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bariann Tuite Smith. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bariann below.
Bariann, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
Being surrounded by family and friends that have overcome so many obstacles, including discrimination based on ethnicity, sexuality, and gender, has me constantly reflecting on my privilege and how much they inspire me. Also having a past in the restaurant industry, the public relations sector and working in companion animal welfare has exposed me to the worst humanity has to offer – and despite that, the animals don’t give up, so neither should we!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I work in the animal rights sector full time for a large nonprofit in a social media capacity, which is my day job and first priority. I also run an antifascist record label out of my home called Fiadh Productions, which promotes music especially made by women and queer folks as well as supporting animal rights, rescue and welfare. You can see recent releases at fiadh.bandcamp.com and support the artists there!
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?
Honesty – be honest about what you can and can’t handle, and what you do and don’t know. Leaning on others for help, especially networking with folks who have specific expertise, not only puts the project in the best hands but allows you to build a community of like-minded individuals.
Selflessness – success isn’t individual, it’s community oriented. Your wins are their wins. Don’t keep anything for yourself that will benefit someone else, and this includes gatekeeping knowledge and resources.
Empathy – never forget what other people may be experiencing. Always keep in mind the bigger picture and contextualize situations that you may be taking personally. It’s never about you!
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
I have lots of anxiety, and while a good medication regime and therapy can be helpful, it’s important to reserve space for yourself to feel your feelings. Make sure you have an animal companion to care for, a friend to confide in, and a good book to lose yourself in when you feel stressed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fiadh.bandcamp.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/fiadhproductions
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/fiadhproductions
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barianntuite/
- Twitter: https://x.com/thefiadh
Image Credits
art: Will (instagram.com/grim.sigils)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
