Your personal brand isn’t just about what you do; it’s about who you are and how you show up for others. Commissioner Sharon Bowen, Chair of the New York Stock Exchange, has built a career and reputation rooted in integrity, authenticity, passion, and purpose. Throughout her ceiling-shattering leadership journey, Sharon has used her platform to elevate others—myself included.

In this episode of Branding Room Only, Sharon shares insights from her trailblazing career, highlighting the impact of public service, personal relationships, and mentorship. She also unpacks what it truly means to live authentically in a world that often lacks it. Through Sharon’s story, you’ll gain a blueprint for not just achieving success, but making an impact, empowering others, and leaving a lasting legacy.

2:12 – How Sharon defines a personal brand, how she describes herself in three short phrases, the quote that keeps her humble, and one of her hype songs

5:11 – How growing up in segregated Virginia during the Civil Rights era shaped Sharon’s life and career decisions

7:22 – Highlights from Sharon’s career path, including her introduction to Wall Street and the pivotal moment that cemented her interest in the market

14:30 – How Sharon’s personal brand helped her navigate and succeed in barrier-breaking roles

19:47 – The role of public service in brand alignment and why volunteerism (when chosen thoughtfully) is so important

26:13 – The impact of personal relationships on career success and brand-building, plus the influential people who shaped Sharon’s journey

34:07 – Advice for professionals who aspire to follow a similarly groundbreaking path

38:17 – What Sharon hopes her legacy will be and what she does for fun

41:47 – Why Sharon will never compromise on her integrity, the unique energy she brings into a room, and a final heartfelt message

Mentioned In Trailblazing with Integrity: Creating a Powerful Personal Brand with Sharon Bowen

Corporate Counsel Women of Color 

New York Lawyers for the Public Interest

New York City Economic Development Corporation

Principal For a Day - Pencil.org

Practicing Attorneys for Law Students Program (PALS)

Personal Branding Strategy Sessions

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Sponsor for this episode

PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.

To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at [email protected], and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.