Meet Desiree Ashe-Bradford | Event Producer, Business Owner, and Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Desiree Ashe-Bradford and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Desiree, how do you think about risk?
No risk, no reward. That’s the number one thing that has to be understood. Once you’ve accepted that, the next step is not to go crazy with it! I’m all about taking calculated risks. Anyone who knows me, knows I’m always going to make the leap if my mind is on it. However, what people don’t recognize is the tremendous amount of thought, research, and care I put into those decisions. The key is, once all the considerations have been taken, you have to just do it. There’s never a perfect time. I moved to NY at 18years old, then to LA five years later. I’ve spoken up in rooms, asked for raises and promotions, changed jobs, and much more. I was super nervous for all of it! But I did it and I’ve had amazing results. Even the not so great responses, have always been worth it.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At MEANT Consulting, our mission is to create more diverse, impactful, and effective leaders and creatives by aligning your brand in purpose. We step away from usual profit chasing techniques to bring mission and values to the forefront of brand. We work with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and artists/creatives, large and small.

The transition to starting my business happened over the pandemic. I was still in my Director position at Tao Group at the time but with everything closed and working from home I had more time on my hands. So I started reaching out to friends more and after hours long conversations, I was consistently getting the response of how helpful and insightful our conversations were. Leading me into learning about the coaching industry, falling in love with it, getting my certification, and launching. Since then I’ve helped people to move to new cities, make major career pivots, start businesses and more. Using my industry knowledge, my work with diversity and inclusion, and business experience, I was able to grow two additional platforms for businesses and creatives. Today, being considered a social impact entrepreneur.

In this company, I get to watch myself live in my purpose and that is what I want to share with the world. Everything happens for a reason. It is up to us to take those lessons and do something with it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In addition to my business, I’m also the VP of Events at PCN Entertainment and this is exactly what we’re able to do for people! We curate exclusive events and experiences at the best places in LA and all members get access to everything offered on the app. All members are in creative industries so you’re guaranteed like-minded people and great atmosphere. I’m also such a foodie and I’m blessed to have had such a long career in hospitality so the list of places I love is endless. Tao Group venues are my #1 (totally not being bias!). Or for something more light and lowkey, maybe Blue Plate Taco in Santa Monica. Other than that, I always make sure visitors get some nature in. Hiking, beach, or even taking a drive outside of LA if they have enough time. There is just so much to do.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d first have to shoutout my mom and brother. Having supportive family members is nothing to be taken for granted. Even when they think I’m making crazy decisions, they understand that my life is mine and are behind me all the way. I’d also have to shoutout my favorite boss lady Deb Fass who I formerly worked with at Tao Group. My corporate career has always been in nightlife and entertainment, very tough and male dominated industries. Deb is one of few female execs at a major company I know in general, but the first I met so strong, fearless, and unapologetically herself. She completely changed my view on accepting myself for me and how to lead with that. I’ll always appreciate her mentorship and the relationship I share with her.
Lastly, if you have a faith/religion, find the right place to worship! When you find the RIGHT place, it’s life changing. No explanation needed. Shoutout to West Angeles.

Website: desireeabradford.com, meantconsulting.com, pcnnightlife.com

Instagram: @desireeabradford , @meantconsulting , @pcnnightlife

Linkedin: linkedin.com/desireeabradford

Youtube: blackvoicesunscripted

Image Credits
@ninjaxfang