6: Why I Left My 17-Year Advertising Career: How a Layoff Led Me to My True Purpose

After 17 years in advertising, working with brands like Uber, Samsung, AT&T, Toyota, and Bank of America, I thought I had seen it all. I climbed the ranks, led major campaigns, and built a name for myself in an industry that often made me feel like the only one in the room. But when I was unexpectedly laid off, everything changed. It forced me to ask myself: do I jump back in—or do I finally build something of my own? That’s when my purpose became clear. In this episode, I share my journey—from being a Black woman in an overwhelmingly white industry to creating a space where we don’t just survive, but thrive. I talk about the lessons, the struggles, and the moment I decided to take control of my own agency—literally and figuratively. If you’ve ever felt lost in advertising space or find yourself craving a community that you were never able to find, this one’s for you. KEY POINTS - Brandi’s 17-year journey in the advertising world - The main purpose of Her Agency podcast  - Early years with local businesses and real estate executives - On transitioning to PR and account manager roles  - Sense of belongingness at work with impactful campaigns  - Challenges and transition to Her Agency to support black women  - Vision for Her Agency: provide tools, knowledge, and safe spaces  - Own your voice: Taking charge of own agencies together  QUOTABLES  "Energy is everything, and if I meet someone who doesn't have the right energy, I can tell instantly, and I just don't continue to allow myself to be in that space." – Brandi Rand  "I knew that there needed to be an opportunity for people to really have a safe space, have a connection, have community, and learn from each other." – Brandi Rand  "If you are ready to thrive and not just survive in this male-dominated space, if you want to lock arms, build community and culture with others that look like you, join her agency, the collective, a place where we're having real conversations, doing the work, building our brands, taking up space and owning our agency." – Brandi Rand  Get In Touch with Brandi Rand! IG | https://www.instagram.com/brandi_rand/  LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandirand/  HER Agency, The Collective Are you a Black woman thriving in advertising or ready to start? Join HER Agency, The Collective—a community designed for you to build, connect, and own your agency with women who share your journey. Let’s have real conversations, elevate our brands, and make space where we belong. Join The Collective Today! Follow Us on IG:  instagram.com/heragencypod/  Her Agency is produced by EPYC Media Network