by Marianne Biangardi and Jennifer Bardot
When you began your career did you ever imagine you would have a leadership role like you have now? What advice would you give your younger self?
Absolutely not. I grew up in rural Arkansas without a clear roadmap for college or career advancement, and leadership was never something that felt obvious or guaranteed. I didn’t have a defined path or a traditional starting point, but I was determined to create opportunities where they didn’t naturally exist. Over time, I learned that leadership isn’t something you wait to be given. It’s something you grow into by consistently showing up, staying curious, and being willing to take risks before you feel fully ready.
If I could give my younger self advice, it would be to believe in your ability sooner and not let circumstances define what is possible. Your background does not determine your ceiling. Trust your instincts, trust your resilience, and trust the unique perspective you bring to the table. Often, the very things that feel like disadvantages early on become the source of your greatest strength.
Who inspires you and why? What is your most valued attribute in the leaders you respect or mentors you have had?
I am inspired by people who build their own path and earn opportunities rather than wait for them to be given.
The attribute I value most in leaders and mentors is resilience paired with resourcefulness. The ability to adapt, solve problems, and keep moving forward even when the path is unclear is what separates good leaders from great ones.
What did it take in order to trust yourself to step into leadership?
It took having the courage to take the leap, even though I didn’t feel ready and accepting that I might never feel ready. I was driven by a genuine passion to help business owners grow, succeed, and build something meaningful. I firmly believe that when you put good things into the world, when you lead with intention, integrity, and a desire to truly help others, good things find their way back to you. That belief gave me the confidence to step into leadership and keep moving forward.
Have you experienced any hardships and how did you overcome the obstacles. When did you know, the business was going to make it?
Like most fast-growing businesses, there have been many challenges along the way. I have learned that the very things that feel like disadvantages early on often become your greatest strengths. Obstacles force you to become more resourceful, more resilient, and more clear on what truly matters.
I knew the business was going to make it when I saw the real impact we were having on the companies we serve. Helping business owners find better solutions, reduce costs, and create stronger foundations for their teams reinforced that we were building something meaningful and sustainable.
What do you attribute your success to? Secret to your success…
I attribute my success to a commitment to continuous growth and a willingness to challenge the status quo. I believe that if you continue doing the same things, you can expect the same results, so I am always looking for ways to improve, evolve, and create better outcomes for the businesses we serve. The real secret is staying curious, staying adaptable, and never becoming complacent.
What advice would you give other local women leaders?
Be bold and believe in yourself, even when others may not immediately see your vision. Don’t let anyone diminish your confidence or quiet what makes you unique. The qualities that make you different are often the very things that make you an exceptional leader. Protect your magic and use it to create impact.
Join the GRIT Community:
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8987243/
Jennifer Bardot (ownyourgrit@gmail.com, or 314-630-1451) is CEO and Founder of G.R.I.T. Community For Women.
Marianne Biangardi (mbiangardi@uhy-us.com or 314-322-4871) is Sr. Associate, Marketing and Business Development, at UHY LLP.