We had the good fortune of connecting with Brandi Voth and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brandi, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When starting a traditional business, a person knows WHAT they want to do; they just don’t know why. However, I knew WHY I wanted to do what I was doing; I just didn’t know WHAT the heck I was doing!

I wanted to build a business that would create economic empowerment for survivors of human trafficking. I sought ways to create entry-level employment opportunities that would provide gap income for individuals transitioning from a program back into mainstream life and, eventually, progressive positions for promotion within the company that would break cycles of poverty and exploitation by eliminating vulnerabilities.

What should our readers know about your business?
The Power Project began as an online community to inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and create impact within communities. It has since evolved into a global network of like-minded individuals seeking societal change through collaboration. I have witnessed individuals, businesses, ministries, and organizations worldwide working towards creating economic empowerment for vulnerable and exploited individuals.

With The Power Hat Co, we sought to create a trauma-informed holistic environment where individuals who have experienced exploitation and trafficking could gain hands-on work experience while pursuing vocational journeys.

I set out to create a high-quality fashion hat that provided gap income, raised awareness, and invited the consumer to take action. We call our customers The Power Squad, as they have been a driving factor in the success of our brand.

I believe I’ve made it this far on my journey because of sheer grit, grace, and God. I know WHY I am doing what I am and WHO has called me to the mission. That doesn’t mean it’s been easy. (We launched TPHC in 2020) But, when it gets hard, and I feel like giving up, I return to the purpose placed in my heart, hold on tight, and take the next step.

I hope that long after I’m gone when people think back to The Power Project or The Power Hat Co., they remember less of the brand and more of the power that was at work within: how they and those around them were called to stand up to injustice, love others well, and create impact within communities.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m an hour north of Dallas, up in Gainesville. When I have friends come to town, I love playing tour guide and curating a day of dining, shopping, and strolling our small town.

Start with coffee at Sweet Jayne’s and stroll into Morton Museum to learn about Camp Howze, the Gainesville Circus, and the stagecoach days of Gainesville.

Enjoy a day of shopping at
• Cahoots Handbags & Paige Davidson Studio-unique gifts from local artisans
• Infinity Raine -on trend apparel for fashionistas
• Kinne’s Jewelers – exquisite jewelry steeped in Gainesville history
• Bungalow 123 -selectively curated apparel, accessories, & decor
• Harper Jane Boutique -unique gifts, jewelry, & branded apparel

Stop for a fresh lunch from Sarah’s on the Square and splurge on chicken spaghetti with a sinful dessert.
Walk off dessert by visiting the downtown murals by
Katie Brinkley and Charlie Partin.

Take in the classic vibes and historical significance of the Gulf Station Museum & Gainesville Depot.

Make dinner reservations at Goodies on Commerce and enjoy Gainesville’s finest dining al fresco in the courtyard.
*Pro Tip* Stop in Landon Winery next door to pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal.

Top off the day with the best Espresso Martini in Texas at County Seat Kitchen & Cocktails! You might even get lucky and stumble on live music with your nightcap.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have so many mentors, both in real life and virtually, who have been pivotal parts of my journey. First and foremost, I am unapologetically a God girl, and he has aligned the key players in my life. I’m convinced that with God and Google, anything is possible!

Website: https://www.the-powerproject.com

Instagram: @brandivoth @thepowerhatco @the_powerproject

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandivoth

Facebook: www.facebook.com/brandivoth www.facebook.com/thepowerhatco www.facebook.com/thepowerproject

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@the_powerproject?si=ekTGFYIVBwH6wPos

Other: Apple Podcast: The Power Project
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-power-project-podcast/id1438323339

Spotify:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-power-project-podcast/id1438323339

Image Credits
Tiffany Scott Photography, Otim Gerald

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