Discover the heartfelt journey of Brandy Laree', a writer who infuses love into every creative endeavor, from crafting children's books inspired by her beloved pets to sharing cherished family recipes, all while celebrating authentic storytelling and meaningful connections.
“
I've been in rooms where I felt invisible, where my ideas went unheard. But I remembered who I was raised to be. I spoke with clarity and purpose, and slowly the room began to shift.
Brandy L. Mcauley · In Her Own Words
In Conversation
Bold. Brilliant. Unstoppable.
Read the transcript
Brandy L. Mcauley: Speaker: Brandy McAuley, MBA, Project Manager & Published Author What does being an Influential Woman mean to you?Brandy McAuley, MBA: What does it mean to me to be an influential woman? Um, I think it's to lead with a purpose, compassion, and an unwavering authenticity. Um, it means using your voice not to just be heard, but also to elevate others. Influence isn't measured by titles or accolades. It's found in quiet moments of courage. The resilience to, you know, rise after setbacks, and the grace to extend kindness when it's needed most. An influential woman inspires change by living truth, nurturing those around you, um, and creating a space for others to grow. She doesn't just walk her path, she lights it for those to follow. A piece of advice I'd give a younger woman chasing her dreams is to protect, um, your passion fiercely. Never apologize for dreaming boldly. The road may twist and challenge you, um, but your vision is worth the journey. Surround yourself with people who celebrate your light, not dim it. Trust your instincts, honor your values, um, and remember that your story, every chapter, you don't need permission to begin. You just need the courage to believe that you're already enough. Always keep going. The world needs what only you can give.
Full transcript available
Her Story
About Brandy
Brandy McAuley, MBA, is a seasoned project management professional and published author, known for her ability to drive results across complex business environments. With over 25 years at Nationwide Insurance, Brandy has held several leadership roles, most recently serving as a Business Process Management Specialist. In this capacity, she led hundreds of projects and initiatives—from system enhancements and telematics to Smart Home technology—resulting in measurable gains in efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Her track record reflects a strategic mindset, clear communication, and an unwavering commitment to both people and process excellence.
In addition to her corporate success, Brandy has embraced her passion for storytelling and entrepreneurship as a published author through Page Publishing. Her recently released cookbook, Eat-In with a Girl Who Loves Simple, Delicious, Home-Cooked Meals, showcases her creative side and dedication to connecting with others through food and shared experience. Holding an MBA from Ashford University and a BA from Simpson College, Brandy seamlessly blends analytical acumen with creative flair—making her a dynamic force in both the business and publishing worlds.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Brandy
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being a life learner, curious of all things while having a passion of continuous improvement. I have also had the opportunity to work with many people who supported me and devoted their time to investing in me that has fostered my success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received was never stop investing in yourself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Advise I would share is to face your fears and go for it! You will learn something about yourself pass or fail that will help you move forward even stronger than you were before.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges or opportunities would be the competition. It keeps getting stronger and stronger so you must invest in yourself to stay alongside everyone else.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My most important and favorite value is discipline. It truly takes discipline to hold many of the other values together such as trust, respect, courage, compassion, accountability, honesty, balance, etc.
Her Content Hub
Articles by Brandy
From Garden to Gratitude: Sharing the Stories That Shape Us
Embracing Authentic Creativity: A Journey Through Love, Writing, and Personal Growth
In a world that often celebrates speed and perfection, I’ve found meaning in something slower, deeper, and far more nourishing: the art of creating with love. Whether I’m crafting a heartfelt dedication, stirring a pot of homemade soup, or writing a children’s book inspired by my puppy Ezekiel, I believe that the most powerful stories come from a place of sincerity.
The Heart Behind the Work
My journey has never been about chasing trends. It’s been about honoring the people and animals who’ve shaped me. My mother, J. Rouse, taught me the value of kindness and gratitude — lessons I carry into every word I write and every treat I bake for Ezekiel and Curry. Their joy, their bond, and their unconditional love have inspired entire chapters of my life, including my recently published children’s books. “A Puppy Named Ezekiel” and “Ezekiel’s Camping Adventures”. As well as my past down recipes in my cookbook “Eat-In with a Girl Who Loves Delicious Home-Cooked Meals”.
I’ve learned that creativity isn’t just a skill — it’s a way of connecting. Whether I’m experimenting with homegrown peppers in a new recipe or writing a review that celebrates someone’s impact, I aim to infuse every project with emotional sincerity and professional polish.
Why I’m Sharing My Story
Being featured in the media — especially under a respected, empowering brand like Influential Women — is more than a milestone. It’s a chance to:
- Strengthen my personal brand by aligning with a platform that values authenticity and impact.
- Gain visibility as a thought leader whose work bridges creativity, compassion, and professionalism.
- Inspire and influence other high-level professionals who are seeking meaning, not just metrics.
I believe that when we share our stories — the real ones, the ones with heart — we create ripples. We remind others that success can be rooted in love, that leadership can be gentle, and that influence begins with intention.
A Personal Invitation
If my story resonates with you — if you’ve ever found healing in a garden, joy in a kitchen, or purpose in the quiet moments with those you love — I invite you to share your own. Influential Women is a space where our voices matter, where our experiences become bridges, and where our truths can uplift someone else’s tomorrow.
Let’s raise the bar together — not by being louder, but by being more intentional, more compassionate, and more real.
About the Author
Brandy Laree’ is a writer, gardener, and culinary creative whose work blends emotional sincerity with professional polish. Inspired by her mothers’s wisdom and the joyful companionship of her pets Ezekiel and Curry, Brandy crafts children’s books, heartfelt dedications, and nourishing recipes that celebrate love, gratitude, and growth. Her mission is simple: to uplift others through storytelling, creativity, and kindness.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.