SNACKING with BIANCA

Bianca Boyd

“Just hang in – life gets better and better.”

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?

I would like to say read more, but anytime I am up too late I am usually watching reality TV or Jeopardy re-runs…

What songs have you completely memorized?

Too many. I do know every Alanis Morissette song and once lost a Blackberry with a terrible voice recording of “You Oughta Know.” If you found it and you’re reading this please return to its rightful owner!

Who is your role model and why?

I’ve had incredible female role models in life, many who I am only just realizing now how much impact they had on me. My mom and her sisters have faced intense adversity in their life growing up in South Africa. They found strength in unexpected places and that is something I have tried to remember when things get hard.

Professionally I am inspired daily by the women I work with. My celeb role model is NYC relationship expert Esther Perel. She’s fearless and humble. I love her work and how she shows up in the world as a mental health leader.

Sorry – did you say one? 😊

What are the go-to snacks you like to eat?

A lot of things older British ladies like such as cucumber and cheese on toast, black licorice and chocolate coated anything.  

According to you, who is the best-dressed person in business?

My colleague Dana Singleton. Born with style. I also must admit I love Kendall Jenner’s style! All about the sneakers with suits.

What skill are you determined to master? 

The art of tidying up! AGH it’s not working.

What three films best describe your personality?

American Woman, Erin Brockovich, Brigitte Jones’ Diary.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Shut up! Seriously – talking less in meetings is so powerful. Forces you to let others lead if you have a natural tendency to take hold of a situation. I found it was easier to apply this feedback that its more positive twin, “listen harder.” It feels weird sharing this comment on International Women’s Day (today) when we recognize that so many women need an equal opportunity to speak up, but for me personally, this advice was really important to growing as a leader.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Hmm. Maybe just that what you’re feeling is normal. Everyone feels lost, sad and a bit confused at 18. Just hang in – life gets better and better. I wish I was more confident then, and above else, I wish I dreamed bigger. I am trying to correct for that now!

Where is your happy place?

Coffee in the morning. I love mornings. I like them alone or with @jakeryb.

What are the 3 Albums that soundtrack your life? 

Postal Service – Give Up, Tokyo Police Club – Champ, LCD Soundsystem – This is Happening

Which activities make you lose track of time?

Walking around the city. One of my all-time favourite things to do.

How many Gum Balls would it take to fill a Boeing 747 Airplane?

40 million!?

What three words would you use to describe your past three months of your life?

Moving.on.up. 😊

Name something you couldn’t go a day without. Why?

Coffee for sure but that’s a little cliché. Maybe Benefit Benetint? I love that stuff

List your top five favourite books.

Great Expectations – Charles Dickens, Less Than Zero – Bret Easton Ellis, Heartbreaker – Claudia Dey, The Story of a Marriage – Geir Gulliksen, An American Marriage – Tayari Jones

Dogs or Cats?

DOGS!!! But I also love cats, horses, etc. etc. 

Do you believe there is a way to turn your passions in to work, and if so, how?

Yes, for sure! Just don’t do it alone: pursue your passion(s) with people who you genuinely believe in. You need a community to succeed, and in turn, you need to support others’ communities. 

What’s the last item you purchased with cash?

A plant I think!

Indica or Sativa? 

Neither.. 

Read receipt or nah?

Nope.