Opportunity rarely announces itself. It shows up fast and it rewards the people who did the work before anyone was watching. From Hampton’s Tech Week, we sit down with Annette Parker, a Brooklyn-based brand consultant focused on small business growth and founder-led brands, and she brings a message we keep coming back to: research and preparation change everything.

Annette breaks down what “do your research” really means when you’re building a brand, finding clients, and trying to grow with intention. We talk about how founders can build a legacy while they’re still in the messy middle of building the business, and why authenticity is not a soft idea but a practical strategy. Annette also shares how her faith in Christ grounds her purpose and shapes the example she wants to set through her work.

And yes, we make space for a spicy take: Annette’s hill to die on is that audiobooks aren’t reading. It’s funny, but it also reveals something deeper about having a clear point of view and the confidence to stand by it, which matters more than ever for personal branding and modern marketing.

If you’re growing a consulting business, refining your brand strategy, or trying to lead with purpose without losing momentum, you’ll get practical reminders and real encouragement here. Subscribe for more conversations like this, share the episode with a founder who needs it, and leave a review telling us: what’s the one principle you’ll never compromise on?

Follow Annette on Instagram @Annettemarie31

Before you go - here are three ways to continue elevating your legacy & connect:

1. Follow @ElevateCollection.co on Instagram along with your host, @alexandriareed.co & @Jordanhawkins.co
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3. Share this trailer with three people who need to hear it

Remember: Your influence is just the beginning. Your legacy is the destination.

See you soon, where influence meets legacy.