Brandi Sykes is a dynamic coach, HR consultant, and visionary founder of Light and Ladder Coaching and E3 HR Consulting. With a deep passion for service, Brandi transitioned from decades in corporate HR to dedicating her life to helping others—especially women in confidential leadership roles—unlock their full potential. Her story is one of faith, transformation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Brandi as a shining example of resilience and leadership. Her journey will inspire our 5-million-strong global community that believes in uplifting each other—He for She and She for She.
Q: What inspired you to start something of your own after working in the corporate space for so long?
I’ve always loved serving others. That’s what drew me to HR in the first place. Over the years, I realized that I wanted to use the skills and talents God blessed me with to empower others more personally. I live by letting my light shine and helping others do the same. Starting my own business was about giving back, equipping people, and helping them step into their own purpose.
Q: You mentioned having two businesses—can you tell us more about them and your target audiences?
Yes! I run E3 HR Consulting, which supports business owners and leaders in understanding the human side of their organization. I help them train, develop, and retain talent through intentional people practices.
My heart, though, is Light and Ladder Coaching. That’s where I work with individuals in transition—especially those in quiet leadership roles like HR professionals or pastors’ wives. These are people who support others from the shadows and often neglect their own dreams. I help them get unstuck and take steps toward the goals they’ve buried for too long.
Q: What transformation have you seen in your clients through your coaching?
The messages I receive are powerful—text messages saying “I can’t believe it worked!” or clients calling just to thank me. One woman told me, “You heard me and helped me—and I can’t wait to show you what you’ve done.” It’s not about me; it’s about asking the right questions and helping people uncover what’s already inside of them. When they discover that clarity, it’s magical.
Q: Did you experience imposter syndrome when you started your entrepreneurial journey?
Absolutely. I was the one laying off employees at my company—including myself—and I didn’t even update my resume for months. I felt stuck. But Light and Ladder was born out of prayer and faith. I met a life coach certifier by chance at an airport, and that led to everything falling into place. Every time I’ve doubted myself, something has happened to reaffirm my path. Fear still creeps in, but I choose to see it as a challenge—to rise above and walk in faith.
Q: If you could go back and do anything differently, what would it be?
Honestly, I was lucky. I joined a mastermind group at the very beginning that taught me what not to do. That saved me from making big mistakes. One thing I am learning, though, is the importance of outsourcing. You have to work on your business, not in it. That’s a mindset shift I’m grateful for.
Q: What are you currently working on?
I’m creating a workshop for women on time and communication—specifically around the theme: “Does your time represent your purpose?” It’s all about time allocation. I’m also building my client base, which takes patience, trust, and marketing—something I’m learning to embrace, even though it’s not my favorite!
“Every time I hear doubt in my head, I choose faith. Your fears are not your destiny—they’re just opportunities to rise higher.”
Connect with Brandi Sykes:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandi-c-sykes/
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