Rachel Cross shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Rachel, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Who are you learning from right now?
I’m currently in two peer groups – one that is strictly business-focused (Conscious Constellations through Business For Good) and one that covers all areas of personal development (Forum). We have specific learning topics each month, and I learn a ton from each individual and their wealth of experiences.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Rachel K. Cross. I’m a business consultant with a specialty at the intersection of brand, marketing communications, and culture. I LOVE my business and feel so lucky to serve the clients I work with!
I also serve as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Business For Good San Diego, a nonprofit, justice-oriented chamber of commerce, and on the board for the UCLA San Diego Network (a UCLA Alumni chapter).
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As an immigrant from India who grew up in southern Orange County (between LA and San Diego), I rarely felt I belonged. I looked different, I had different clothes that weren’t as fancy as my classmates, my house smelled different, my parents had accents, and more. Today, I have done enough work to belong to myself, which means I know I belong wherever I am.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering – specifically loss in my life – has taught me about the impermanent nature of everything. I try so hard to control the outcome of situations, from my personal life to work projects, but as the saying goes, “the only constant is change.” The more adaptable I can be, the more comfortable with discomfort, the more I can enjoy the journey.
I get to infuse this learning throughout my consulting work and board service. From helping clients keep up with the evolving needs of an industry to being open to change how things are done on the boards I serve, adaptability is a skill everyone can benefit from.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
In today’s crazy political climate, I am committed to the rejection of dualistic (aka black and white) thinking, AND also believe it’s important to take a stand for your values. It’s why I’m so passionate about the work that Business For Good San Diego does around advocacy to create a San Diego region that’s more sustainable and equitable for everyone who lives here. When I feel overwhelmed by what’s going on at the national level, it feels empowering to be part of a group using our collective voices to make a positive difference in our local community.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
I will regret not taking a stand for what I believe in – the value of every human, equitable, sustainable policies, and frankly, kindness! As an immigrant with a certain level of privilege based on my education and socio-economic status, I want to use my voice to speak up for those who aren’t able or allowed to. In doing so, I am also standing up for my own rights as a woman, a business owner, and a citizen. Again, it’s why being a member of Business For Good has been so encouraging – to find other values-aligned small business owners who believe in fairness and decency for all people, regardless of sex, race, ethnicity, sexual preference, immigration status, and more. We uphold the idea that “everyone is created equally” and it gives me hope to be surrounded by this community of people!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rachelkgroup.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelkcross/
- Other: https://businessforgoodsd.org/
Image Credits
Chris Wojdak Photography
