Of Many, One: Anna R.
Tell us a bit about yourself:
I think life, especially military family life, is an adventure. It helps that I’m curious by nature and that I often express myself best through my writing – because that’s how I understand life’s experiences. I have six nieces who amaze me with their humor, creativity, excitement, and joy, and who I don’t get to see nearly enough. At one point in my life I served in the Australian Army, and after I was medically retired I went to law school. I later went on to graduate school in English Literature and have worked in public policy, law, higher education, and the non-profit sector. Now I’m married to a wonderful man, whose service in the US Air Force means I’m also a military spouse.
What is the best thing about your job?
Doing meaningful work. Seriously. The best thing is that I get to make legalese easier to understand, share meaningful stories, and empower those who are building communities.
What’s your office style?
Is professional, creative and comfortable a style? I’m a big fan of multi-seasonal pieces and layers. I live in flats but love a great pair of statement heels. My R.Riveter Otto goes almost everywhere with me – I love that I can take it from the courtroom, to the boardroom, to a casual bbq to a black tie affair and it looks great!
I have been traveling with my R.Riveter Grant more in 2018 and it is perfect for conference going and long haul flights. I also love my R.Riveter key chain – I used to lose my keys in the bottom of my purse! It keeps them easy to find.
How have you overcome challenges associated with being a military spouse?
I founded my company, Anna Blanch Rabe & Associates, in part because I couldn’t be licensed to practice law in New Mexico where my active duty service member spouse was stationed for two consecutive assignments. Being creative and taking the opportunity to take some risks is how I’ve been able to make this part of my career and our military family life be something I’m proud of, rather than something I’ve just survived.
Having accomplished so much - what would you consider the secret to your success?
For me, success is about helping our clients (both revenue generating and pro bono) build momentum toward sustainable social impact goals that are clearly defined. Personally, I would be unable to do the awesome things I get to do without the support of my team and my husband. Truly, not trying to do it all myself is about the only “secret” I know.
How does the #BagsonaMission Community fit into your mission?:
Like R.Riveter, I have chosen to build a business that has service woven into the very fabric of the company. I live #bagsonamission – I’m on the road and I’m working towards goals and projects that are so much greater than myself. I can’t speak highly enough of the products R.Riveter creates – they literally go everywhere with me – and the real solutions R.Riveter offers as a company in creating movement in military spouse employment.
When you’re not at the office, where can we find you?
On a plane or train. I travel about 50% of the time for work, so I am on the road a lot. My husband and I love to explore new places – he’s an ultramarathoner, so I’m almost as likely to be “crewing” him on weekends as visiting a farmers market and making something fresh and delicious from our discoveries. I love having a friend or two over and enjoying a homemade cocktail on the back porch
More about Anna:
An Air Force Spouse, Anna is a contender for Military Spouse of the Year, and has forged a path in entrepreneurship through her boutique communications consulting company. She has also participated as a TEDx speaker.
To learn more about Anna, follow her here:
Website: https://annablanch.net/
Instagram: Annie_rabe
