Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kelly Brouillet. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Kelly, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
One thing I wasn’t prepared for as I advanced in my career and grew my business was the rise of imposter syndrome. In my 20s, it was easier to be confident and ambitious, driven by the urgency to carve out a place in the world. But as I’ve gained more experience and success, I’ve found that doubt has an uncanny way of creeping in, even when you’re farther along the path.
To combat these feelings, the first step I take is to acknowledge the negative thoughts and consciously reframe them. Instead of dwelling on doubts, I tell myself the opposite. I lean on my professional community and a trusted circle of friends who provide valuable advice and reassurance when I need it. I’ve also learned to accept compliments with a simple “thank you” rather than brushing off kind words in an effort to be humble.
Admittedly, I don’t always have a sharp eye for detail, and when I make a mistake—whether it’s a typo or an oversight—I can be hard on myself. In those moments, I remind myself that growth, effort, and improvement are far more important and realistic than perfection. Mistakes happen to everyone, and acknowledging this helps me stay grounded.
Giving yourself grace is essential—it means forgiving yourself for the missteps and celebrating your successes, no matter how small they might seem. By embracing a mindset of self-compassion and growth, I’ve found it’s easier to navigate the challenges and uncertainties that come with success. It’s having pride and confidence in yourself and your successes that arm you to fight imposter syndrome.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am the proud owner of KBru Communications, a professional sports car racing public relations company. With a focus on connecting fans to the heart of the racing experience, KBru Communications provides media relations, compelling storytelling, and impactful content creation that drives engagement and amplifies team and brand visibility. Leveraging a deep understanding of motorsports and a passion for connecting communities, KBru Communications empowers clients to build lasting relationships with fans and partners. I started my motorsports journey as a race fan, and it brings me great joy to give today’s race fans experiences that they will always remember.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
When I started working in motorsport as a young teenager, I had to begin as a volunteer. I was thrilled just to be at the track and eagerly embraced every opportunity that came my way. That openness laid the foundation for me to explore different aspects of the sport, ultimately leading me to discover my passion for public relations.
In those early days, I worked tirelessly, often unpaid, and funded my weekends at the track through other jobs. It was my persistence and focus on my own journey—without comparing myself to others—that opened doors to new opportunities.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned along the way was how to navigate a professional field that often operates with an unprofessional undertone. Finding that delicate balance wasn’t easy, and I wish I’d figured it out sooner to avoid some of the embarrassing moments of my 20s and early 30s. But life is a constant journey of learning, and I think many of us look back on our younger selves with a mix of humor and cringe. Social media has only made that reflection more public and permanent.
For those starting out, I encourage you to set high standards for yourself and strive to be the best at what you do. Growth requires adaptability, openness to feedback, and a commitment to reliability and clear communication. Relationships matter more than you might realize—respecting others’ time and networking authentically are critical.
Remember, building a career takes thousands of thoughtful actions, but it only takes one misstep to undo years of progress. Approach every opportunity with care, and always act with integrity.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
Working in public relations, particularly in social media, one of the biggest challenges I face is navigating the current minefield that is today’s online landscape. It takes immense effort and patience to grow and foster a positive environment on platforms where outrage often seems to dominate. Statements are easily misconstrued, misinformation spreads quickly, and everyone is vying to be heard. It can feel like many individuals are looking to provoke and escalate conversations rather than contribute constructively. Even those with the best intentions can get caught up in the cycle—we’ve all been there.
Social media’s direct connection to brands and individuals has given us a sense of entitlement that didn’t exist before the mid-2000s. It’s become all too easy to dive into an online debate or publicly call out a brand for not meeting expectations.
To combat this, I focus on positive engagement, shining a spotlight on uplifting ideas, thoughtful comments, and encouraging content. I strive to create a space where followers feel encouraged to speak kindly and treat others with respect. Establishing boundaries and moderating extreme content is essential, though it’s not always a simple solution. Sometimes moderation itself can escalate tensions, leaving the person behind the account to bear the brunt of the fallout.
Maintaining a professional career in a climate of heightened tension and conflict-seeking behavior can be taxing on mental health. My ongoing challenge is to not only navigate this space more effectively for my own well-being but also to make a meaningful impact in the small corners of the world where my company’s voice can foster change and positivity.
Contact Info:
- Website: kbrucommunications.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/kbrucomm
- Facebook: facebook.com/kbrucomm
- BlueSky: KBruComm
- Reddit: KBruComm
