Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandi Russell.
Hi Brandi, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Shea’s journey as a photographer revealed something surprising: after delivering headshots, many clients were left uncertain about how to leverage those images to grow their presence or attract new opportunities. This sparked the concept of The Personal Brand Studio—a space designed not just for expert portraits, but for launching polished, cohesive personal brands using those powerful images and additional brand photography.
Brandi’s story intertwines perfectly with Shea’s. As an entrepreneur and website designer, Brandi first met Shea while collaborating on the launch of a yoga retreat business. Their partnership began there, rooted in creativity and shared vision. Years later, we reconnected with a mission: to combine Shea’s idea for the studio with Brandi’s talent for digital strategy and website development. Together, we built The Personal Brand Studio, helping founders, executives, and entrepreneurs transform their expertise and vision into unforgettable digital brands.
Shea brings the inspired strategy—the insight to see people’s potential and the practical experience to capture it through photography. Brandi brings the tools—website design, brand development, and technical know-how—to translate those assets into genuine online authority. This unique synergy allows clients to move beyond brilliant headshots, launching personal brands that truly reflect their professional value and attract the recognition they deserve.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but every challenge has refined our process and elevated the experience clients receive today. In our early days, launching personal brands meant navigating bumps—finding the right systems, balancing multiple projects at once, and learning how strategic focus could turn complexity into clarity.
We set out to deliver a true white glove experience, and that commitment led us to streamline not just our timelines, but our entire approach. By focusing on one client at a time, we channel all our energy and expertise into making each project seamless, professional, and tailored. This shift has allowed us to create personal brands that launch quickly, radiate confidence, and are delivered with the level of clarity and polish our clients deserve.
Those early struggles shaped us into the team we are now—relentlessly committed to making every client feel supported, seen, and set up for real growth online.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At The Personal Brand Studio, our passion is helping entrepreneurs, executives, and industry leaders transform their expertise into lasting influence through expert photography, brand strategy, and polished websites. We specialize in guiding clients through every step—from discovery to launch—so they feel truly seen, valued, and equipped to stand out in their field.
What sets us apart is our holistic, hands-on approach: Shea captures authentic brand images that tell your story, while Brandi designs digital brands and websites that bring your vision to life online. This synergy lets us build magnetic, recognizable identities that reflect the whole person—your challenges, motivations, and strengths.
We’re most proud of providing a white-glove experience that evolves with each client. Our commitment to strategic focus means every project receives our full attention and creative energy, ensuring your personal brand launches quickly and seamlessly, and sets you up as the confident, go-to expert in your industry. This tailored process, grounded in empathy and creative problem-solving, is the foundation that helps our clients gain recognition, attract opportunities, and become unforgettable in their space.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Kansas City is truly a mecca for entrepreneurs, and that energy lifts our work every day. What we love most is the abundance of support—both formal and informal—for small business development. The entrepreneurial ecosystem here is rich with organizations, grants, accelerators, and events, but the real magic is in the people. Kansas City’s culture is built on collaboration and generosity; everyone is invested in connecting, sharing, and celebrating each other’s journeys.
One of our favorite aspects of our job is the connections we foster among clients. When we spot an opportunity to help our clients grow their business or voice by making an introduction, we jump in. These supportive networks are why the city remains an inspiring place to build and launch a personal brand.
Honestly, it’s hard to pinpoint something we don’t love. The people are wonderful, traffic is manageable, cost of living is great, and the opportunities for growth seem endless. If we had to choose one thing, it would be the winters—they’re definitely bracing at times! Still, even that challenges us to create new experiences indoors, and keeps us excited to support clients all year round.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thepersonalbrandstudio.com
- Instagram: @thepersonalbrandstudiokc
- LinkedIn: @brandirussellkc / @sheaswinford
- Other: www.sheaphotography.com www.theheadshotstudiokc.com
