Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianna Beard.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Brianna. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I like to say “it all started under an avocado tree.” I would retreat to my neighbors giant avocado tree when I was a little girl, it was my secret garden. It was there I felt deeply connected to the natural world. Eating in a way that naturally supports my health and the health of the planet has been an instinct since I was a child. While my brother demanded hot dogs and Doritos, I would snack on sprouts and beg my mom to make me mushrooms and brown rice. Around age 17, I discovered raw vegan cuisine through a close friend that opened a raw food restaurant in Encinitas. This way of honoring the food in its natural state intrigued me. I worked at several raw food restaurants with my talented, passionate friend Eric Ethans (who went on to create the juice company, SUJA) and learned so much along the way.
Now, at age 34, after many years of exploring different cooking positions on boats, in restaurants, eco-lodges, and yoga retreats, my deep appreciation for plant-based cuisine is a cornerstone of my lifestyle.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I can’t say there have been struggles, but I do admit that not every dream has come to fruition. I have had so many ideas to pursue that have slipped through the cracks. I think the most important thing I have learned is that if you enjoy something, just do it for joy, not the outcome or external success. Do “it” daily to become a master. Whatever “it” is, cooking, pottery, dance, music, etc… people, and opportunities will be attracted to that commitment you bring to your area of passion and expertise.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Seed Leaf Life – what should we know?
I create unique plant-based recipes with medicinal herbs. My Instagram page @seed.leaf.life allows my followers to learn how to infuse their food with adaptogenic and tonic herbs to soothe the nervous system, balance the glandular system, increase circulation and overall vitality of the body and mind. The page was created to document my journey of writing a cookbook (still a work in progress). As I began sharing recipes and my knowledge of herbs, I found a heartwarming community of people so grateful to learn about plant medicine. I get so filled up by my followers’ enthusiasm for a more genuine connection to their well being, which in turn creates a connection to the wellness of our planet and all that live and breath.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Become a master of your craft. I think it is human nature to get interested and excited about something, but if success doesn’t come quick enough, we tend to lose momentum. When I think of those that I am inspired by, they are masters at what they do. My advice would be to find mentors, work on your passion daily for the joy, don’t be concerned with the outcome and become a master.
Contact Info:
- Email: bribeard@hotmail.com
- Instagram: @seed.leaf.life
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