Rising ICON #32: Brittany Bell
What name do you prefer to be called?
Brittany or Brit
What are your pronouns?
She/Her
Where did you grow up?
Born in South Korea, was adopted and grew up in Lakeville, MN
What city are you currently based in?
Minneapolis, Seattle, Denver
How do you typically introduce yourself to new people?
Hi, I’m Brittany Bell – It’s a pleasure to meet you! I am a passionate advocate for empowering women and building engaging communities.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about you?
My entire life has been unconventional, starting with being adopted. I question life’s norms and think about things differently than most. I am most stressed when my mind isn’t moving, learning, and growing. Many people think I’m crazy for being involved in so many things, but exploring different passions, using multifaceted skills to empower women and BIPOC leaders, and fostering connections are most meaningful to me.
Who do you help?
Women, leaders, and adults looking to build community.
What are you building now?
We are currently about to launch Gametime Hero, a platform for adults looking to build community through sports and hobbies, creating a place where people can connect and grow.
What were you building ten years ago today?
I was learning, evolving, and laying the groundwork for where I am today, honing my leadership skills in senior living operations and exploring how best to serve my community.
What do you predict of yourself 10 years from now?
In the next decade, I see myself advocating, leading, and promoting a world where female and BIPOC leaders continue to be empowered to be brave and do hard things.
What’s a fact or statistic you wish everyone knew about your industry?
The senior living industry and community sports are not just about services; they are about creating moments of joy, belonging, and lifelong learning, all fundamental to well-being.
Why do you believe the work you do matters?
I believe in the transformative power of connections. Bringing people together can improve mental health, create support systems, and enhance the quality of life.
Who is your mentor and what is the best advice they’ve given you?
My mentor, Erin Hilligan, has helped me every step of the way. I learned early on that integrity is key to everything. Do what you say and say what you do. Be a servant leader. A people leader. And put your customer at the center of every decision you make. Be true to your values, and everything else will fall into place.
What piece of content about you or your company are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the content in my doctoral capstone project, which focused on mid-level leaders and how they can effectively improve retention and decrease turnover, focusing on positive culture, building trust, leadership development opportunities, and employee wellbeing.
What publication do you hope to appear in next?
I aspire to be featured in publications celebrating empowered women, BIPOC leaders, and sharing stories that inspire and motivate others to step outside their comfort zone, be brave, and do hard things.
Who would you love to be interviewed by?
Guy Raz - How I Built That, Oprah Winfrey
If you had to give a TEDTalk tomorrow, what would the title be?
The Art of Community Building: Weaving Connections in a Disconnected World.
What award would mean the most to win?
An award that recognizes exceptional leadership in community empowerment and innovation would be incredibly meaningful to me.
What makes zero sense to you?
When leaders don’t see people as their most valuable asset and contributors.
What’s a word in your industry you hope gets re-evaluated?
The term ‘networking’ often feels transactional; I prefer ‘community building’ which emphasizes genuine connections.
What game are you changing?
I’m changing the game of community and connection, making it more accessible and impactful for people of all ages and all income levels.
What’s the next thing you’re a part of that you want to invite more people to participate in?
I would love for more people to sign up for Gametime Hero and experience the joy of community through shared interests and passions. www.gametimehero.com
Where can we follow you online?
linkedin.com/in/brittany-bell1221
www.gametimehero.com
www.myeventhero.com
www.facebook.com/gametimehero
https://www.instagram.com/gametimehero
What’s one thing that makes every leader better?
Empathy.
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We’re grateful to each Rising ICON for their transformative work. Thank you, Brittany, for sharing your story!
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“I believe in the transformative power of connections. Bringing people together can improve mental health, create support systems, and enhance the quality of life.”
Notice: It’s important for our readers to understand the origin of the interview content. The featured ICON contributed responses that were not edited from the original submission. All claims are made solely by the contributor and do not reflect the views of LAUREL or its partners. Thank you for supporting rising leaders. The future is bold.
