Guest Blog From Jessica Wernli
I’ve always believed in the mantra “the revolution starts within.” It’s a principle rooted in my work as a Vision Coach, facili-trainer, and entrepreneur. Yet, while I’ve poured my energy into helping others uncover, affirm, and manifest their vision, I’ll admit I’ve often overlooked one key component of self-expression: style.
That is, until Kim Franks of Liberated Roots gave me a transformative lesson in audacity—through fashion.
A Playful Invitation to Reimagine Myself
One day, I stopped by Liberated Roots to drop off copies of my workbooks, which I sell at Kim’s shop. As we chatted, Kim casually asked, “Do you want to play dress-up?” It was an invitation that turned into a fun and reflective experience.
Kim styled me in several outfits centered around my “She had the audacity” sweatshirt. Before that day, I’d only ever worn it plainly with jeans 🤦🏽♀️. Kim’s styling expertise showed me how to elevate the look and make that statement really stand out. She didn’t just put together outfits; she taught me how to wear them—how to carry myself with confidence and embrace the power of my own audacious energy.
Why Style Matters for Women in Leadership
As a facilitator and trainer, my focus has always been on making the participants and the discussion the primary focus. My background in community organizing ingrained in me the habit of working in the background and allowing others to take the spotlight. This approach, while valuable, often left me neglecting my own presence and the power of my personal expression.
Like many organizers in St. Louis, as I’ve grappled with feelings of burnout and exhaustion, I’ve decided to lean into creativity for personal liberation.
Working with Kim reminded me that personal style is freeing– and looking audacious is an essential part of being audacious. For women in leadership, especially change-making Black and Brown women, style can be a subtle yet powerful form of freedom. It’s about owning and taking up our space unapologetically.
The Connection Between Style and Freedom
As Black and Brown women, we are often the first to raise our hands to lead. We organize campaigns, champion DEI initiatives, educate our communities, and take on the heavy load of fighting for freedom. Yet, in doing so, we sometimes lose sight of our own health, happiness, and personal freedom.
Prioritizing our style and self-expression is a radical act of self-care. It’s a declaration that our joy, confidence, and individuality matter. When we embrace our audacity in every aspect of our lives—from our leadership to our wardrobe—we inspire others to do the same. Freedom isn’t just something we fight for externally; it’s something we claim internally, too.
Photo of Kim and Jessica outside of Roots Oasis, the Liberated Roots Co storefront. Both women are wearing items from Jessica's branded clothing line, "She had the audacity" which can be found in Roots Oasis.
A Shoutout to Kim Franks & Liberated Roots
Kim’s playful approach to styling made the experience fun and uplifting. She reminded me that audacity isn’t just about the bold steps we take in our work; it’s also about how we show up in the world. If you’re a woman in leadership who’s ready to step more fully into your audacity, I wholeheartedly recommend her services.
She Had the Audacity: A Vision for Change-Making Women
For those who don’t know, She had the audacity is my brand designed to inspire change-making Black and Brown women to uncover, affirm, and manifest their vision. I believe that our internal revolution is the key to achieving freedom for all. When we give ourselves permission to follow our passions, protect our peace, and embrace abundance, we set a powerful example for others.
Kim Franks and Liberated Roots have reminded me that audacity starts with how we see and present ourselves. When we look audacious, we feel audacious. And when we feel audacious, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
So here’s my message to all the HBIC’s (Head Bosses in Change 😉) out there: Give yourself permission to prioritize your own freedom, starting with how you show up. Let’s lead boldly, live freely, and, of course, dress audaciously 💁🏽♀️.
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