We had the good fortune of connecting with Shannon Siriano Greenwood and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shannon, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I am much more interested in my life than my work now that I understand the distinction between the two. When I was younger, so much of my identity was tied to my career and it’s success. Now that I am a grown up, I realize the relationships that I have, how I spend my days, and how I feel are more important that success at work. I still need to pay the bills and fund my creativity, but that is the purpose of my work, not proving anything to anyone.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My vision for creating the Rebelle Community was to have a safe space for women to share what was really going on. In today’s Instagram influenced version of sharing information, there is so much left unsaid about what challenges women face in the working world and beyond. Our mission is to support women leaders in defining and creating their own version of success.

What started as a single event has grown into so much more. The primary way we support women leaders is through our peer mentoring program, SWELL by Rebelle. We match members with a small cohort of their peers and facilitate monthly group sessions.

In addition to that, we publish a quarterly magazine, Rebelle Magazine and what we are primarily known for is our annual boutique conference, Rebelle Con, a two-day immersive event that brings leaders from a variety of industries to share their lessons learned.

Rebelle has grown over the years and adopted several different business models. We have changed as the world has changed and although it was needed, change is never easy. There were absolutely times when I wanted to give up, but my commitment to our mission, supporting women leaders in defining and creating our own version of success, is what kept me going.

Women represent 45% of the S&P 500 workforce, but only 21% of senior leadership positions. In other words, it is lonely at the top. By providing an opportunity for women leaders to connect and share with one another, we strive to create more fulfillment for those leaders so they can pave the way for the next generation to make bigger strides towards equity in the business world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We have an amazing small business and creative community here in Richmond, VA. Sites: VMFA (Virginia Museum of Fine Art) and small local galleries downtown Activities: walk the pipeline and other easy hikes with city views on Belle Isle
History: walking through Jackson Ward to the Maggie Walker statue and other historic spots in Shockoe Slip
Eat: Lehja my favorite Indian Restaurant, ice cream at Ruby Scoops owned by Food Network winner Rabia Kamara, dinner at Brennar Pass another award winning woman owned restaurant
Shopping at Someday and Dear Neighbor, boutiques owned by my friends
Drinks at LeMaire a The Jefferson Hotel

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Racheal Cook has been an inspiration, support, and friend who has helped me navigate the rocky waters of business ownership. She leads by amazing example to prove that you can build a successful sustainable business without sacrificing your health, happiness, and sanity.

Website: http://readytorebelle.com

Instagram: @readytorebelle

Linkedin: shannonsiriano

Image Credits
Nick Davis Sarah Der Jacqueline DePas

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