Keepin’ on the blog-post-a-day for the month of February trail with my pals Amanda, Ami, and Monica!
So…
See this woman? Do not be fooled by her seemingly cool, calm exterior.
Do not be mislead by her petite stature.
Do not be mislead by her friendly Midwestern demeanor.
Because she will cut you.
I mean that more in the figurative sense than the literal sense, but I’d suggest you not push your luck to be on the safe side.
In point of fact, this woman is one of the sharpest, most creative and strategic minds I’ve ever had the pleasure to know. In point of fact, when this woman interviewed me for a writer position for an incredible little Charleston-based agency back in 2004, she dropped the F-bomb during our conversation and quickly apologized. Little did she know, I was forever bound to her in that moment. (Do not underestimate my love and admiration for a perfectly-placed and timed cuss.)
Please note: this woman, who is not ever to be trifled with, is among my favorite people for more reasons than I can name, not the least of which is that she hired an amazing assortment of creative minds. Under her direction and through her love of the craft, we had the opportunity to create some truly amazing, award-winning, money-making work.
It also bears mentioning that she throws incredible parties, is indispensable in times of crisis, is gracious, graceful, whip smart, and carries a sense of beauty and humor in everything she does.
She is responsible for bringing together this beautifully, insanely creative cast of characters.
Years later, we have all moved on to different experiences, jobs, cities, coworkers, Halloween outfits. But the truth is, gather any of us back together and we will say that we’ve never since worked in an environment quite like the one that sassy lady above built.
So, thank you, Bruner. It was a gift, a blast, a learning experience, and a novel still to be written.
jennybadman.com 
7 responses to “An agency story”
You know my daughter once said to me…Sharon Bruner is my idol, she is who I want to be when I grow up. At the time it made me jealous because I thought a mother was suppose to be their daughter’s idol. Then I realized in life all mother’s need to be thankful for those who come along and help make your daughter an even better person. I would like to say to Sharon Bruner, “Thank you for being there for my daughter…Kim Singleton”.
Oh, Pam, that’s so beautiful! Thank you for sharing that. Kim is lucky to have such a wonderful Mom who understands that everyone who helps them take a step toward being a better person is important. And, by the way, Kim is amazing: kind, creative, smart, and hilarious. You have so much to be proud of!
Oh you guys! You are making me blush! 🙂
The tip of the iceberg… Ironically, our logo was a tree.
Sharon Bruner is a cornerstone in the foundation of my career. The day I met her, was the day my life turned from good to great. She provided countless opportunities for me in the most interesting arenas, and for that, I am indebted to her.
As for you Jenny, I have always enjoyed your words, but much more your person. Thanks for creating this forum.
Richie, thanks so much for your sweet words about Bruner and me. I miss you much!
I am very proud of everyone’s accomplishments and am so fortunate to have worked with such a group of talented people. The best part is that we might not see each other for extended periods of time but can still pick up our conversation as though it was yesterday. Thank you for your wonderful energy.
Thank you, Bruner! xo