Meet Bridgette Lewis

We recently connected with Bridgette Lewis and have shared our conversation below.

Bridgette, 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?

Where does your resilience come from? That is a great question. I was raised by a single mother and am the youngest of two girls. Growing up, I watched my older sister, an introvert, quietly move in her purpose to become an international award-winning bridal designer. She is still going strong after 35 years in the business in the same location. Witnessing her manifest the dream life she imagined she has today inspired me deeply. Her determination taught me the value of and the importance of perseverance, even when my goals didn’t come to fruition immediately. I knew that if I just kept going, I would reach my objectives. My late mother, Sara, was an amazing educator who taught my sister and me more by her actions than by her words. Despite the challenges of being a special education teacher with no financial support from our father, she took on a second job and to creating additional income by sewing clothes for her friends and offering her services to community organizations. She never quit when times got tough; instead, she kept going. That is where my resilience comes from.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

As the Creative Director and Founder of CoffeeTalk Media Los Angeles, I am proud to share the journey of our company, which began 17 years ago. CoffeeTalk was conceptualized in 2007 during one of the lowest points in my life, when my mother suffered a life-threatening aneurysm. During this challenging time, I turned to music for solace, which ultimately led to the inception of the CoffeeTalk Jazz Network.

Today, CoffeeTalk stands as a top-rated podcast, interviewing book authors, indie artists, icons, and music legends. It has evolved into a full-service entertainment music marketing agency, supporting independent musicians in telling their stories and building their audiences through festivals, radio, television, and film partnerships. In 2013, we launched CoffeeTalk Magazine, marking a significant milestone in my journey as Editor-in-Chief.

CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine is the perfect destination for music lovers who want to stay up-to-date with their favorite recording artists. Our online publication offers exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and the latest news from the world of jazz and beyond. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary, modern, or classical jazz, we provide our readers with an intimate and engaging experience.

Through every obstacle and setback, I developed mental toughness and inner resilience, never backing down when faced with adversity. As a business coach and mentor, I specialize in empowering women to navigate life disruptions, conquer fears, and find hope to pursue their dreams. Traveling across the country, I share my story of resilience, inspiring women to persevere through challenges. My experience, coupled with 25 years in corporate America and caring for my late mother for a decade, has shaped me into a compassionate guide for others seeking transformation.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

I believe that the three most important qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge essential for success are the ability to push past pain, doubt, and failure to reach your end goal.

Courage:
Impact: Courage has been crucial in facing and overcoming obstacles and roadblocks. It allowed me to take risks and step into the unknown, despite the fear of failure or rejection.

Advice: To develop courage, start by taking small risks and gradually increase your comfort zone. Practice self-affirmation and surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you to take bold steps. Remember, courage is not the absence of fear but the determination to move forward despite it.

Perseverance: I made-up mind that I had nothing to lose after losing everything t I felt at the time of my late Mother’s illness was important. A resolute spirit are essential in staying the course, no matter what challenges come your way. This quality ensures that you do not quit when things get tough.

Advice: Build your resolve by setting clear, achievable goals and celebrating small victories along the way. Develop a routine that reinforces your commitment to your goals and remind yourself daily of your reasons for pursuing them. Perseverance can be strengthened by developing a resilient mindset, focusing on solutions rather than problems.

Adaptability and Growth Mindset:
Impact: Understanding that goals and benchmarks will change as you grow and scale your business is vital. Being adaptable allows you to pivot and adjust your strategies as needed, ensuring long-term success.

Advice: Cultivate a growth mindset by embracing challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Stay open to feedback and be willing to adjust your plans as circumstances evolve. Continuously seek knowledge and skills that will help you adapt to new situations and overcome unforeseen obstacles.

Final Thoughts:
You must look fear in the face and stand up to all the negative voices, self-doubt, and naysayers who tell you that you won’t make it or that you don’t have what it takes. Stand toe-to-toe with fear and do it afraid. Even with your knees shaking, forge ahead and pursue the things you know you were called to do. By developing courage, resolve, and adaptability, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate your journey and achieve your goals.

Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?

My biggest area of improvement over the past 12 months has been my physical transformation. The passing of my late mother, Sara, was incredibly difficult for me. After serving as her live-in caregiver for 10 years and starting my business because I couldn’t return to my corporate job, I gained a lot of weight. Being post-menopausal added to the challenge of losing the weight. However, I summoned my resolve and devised a plan that worked for me.

I’ve released 45 pounds over the past 8 months, going from a size 16/18 to a size 10. My approach included working out five days a week on my treadmill, taking walks around my neighborhood, and incorporating some strength training. I focused on eating lean protein and lots of vegetables, and I practiced intermittent fasting five days a week from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. Drinking a gallon of water a day also played a crucial role in my success.

With determination and persistence, I’ve finally reached my fitness goal. This physical transformation has not only improved my health but also reinforced my belief in the power of setting goals and staying committed to them.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Mario Panzarino Jr. Jazz-Up Photography and Damien Smith Photographer, Bettie Grace Miner

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