We’re looking forward to introducing you to Bernice Chao. Check out our conversation below.
Bernice, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
If it’s a great morning, I wake up around 6:00 a.m. — no alarm needed. I start the day with about 15 minutes of quiet scrolling in bed, catching up on the world before the house wakes up. Then I head downstairs for a 30-minute workout to get my body moving, followed by a quick 15-minute shower and getting ready.
By 7:00 a.m., the pace shifts into full parent mode — an hour of helping my kids get dressed, fed, lunches packed, and out the door for school. It’s a whirlwind, but it’s also a reminder of the balance I’m constantly navigating between family and career. It’s not always easy, but somehow, we make it happen every day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a values-driven creative leader and lifelong learner who’s passionate about making a difference in my community and the lives around me. For the past two decades, I’ve worked at the intersection of technology and creativity in the advertising world—helping brands connect with audiences in ways that feel human, thoughtful, and real.
I’m also the author of The Visibility Mindset, which shares lessons I’ve learned about learning to show up for myself and making peace with my awkward younger self—who’s probably still cringing somewhere, but cheering me on. Beyond my professional life, I founded Asians in Advertising, a global nonprofit that empowers the AAPI community through mentorship, education, and events. I also teach at Loyola Marymount University, where I’ve spent the past five years helping the next generation of creative thinkers find their voice and purpose.
At the heart of everything I do is a belief that creativity can be a force for good—bridging cultures, inspiring representation, and creating spaces where everyone can be seen, celebrated, and supported.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child of immigrants, I grew up believing that success meant doing everything on my own—that capable people had to figure out their own path without help. Over time, I’ve learned that true strength comes from humility and connection. It’s about recognizing both your strengths and your gaps, and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, challenge you, and make the journey more meaningful and joyful. I’m deeply grateful for those people in my life—they’re truly special.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “You did the best you could with what you knew then.” I sometimes catch myself living in the should’ve, would’ve, could’ve world, replaying old decisions and wondering what I might have done differently. But every choice came from the knowledge, experience, and heart I had at the time—and that was enough. You were doing your best, and that’s something to be proud of.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
It is and it isn’t. I’m actually an introvert—something that often surprises people because I come across as warm and open. The intention behind that warmth is always real; I genuinely love connecting with people and hearing their stories. But putting myself out there does take energy, and I’ve learned to honor that about myself. I’m most at ease in one-on-one conversations where real connection happens. Over time, I’ve realized being both introverted and outwardly open isn’t a contradiction—it’s just part of what makes me, me.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
I think about this often. In a career where there are still so few female—and even fewer Asian American—creative leaders, it can be challenging to have my perspective fully seen and heard. Burnout is real, and I’ve even joked with my parents about retiring early. There are moments when I wonder if the struggle is worth it. But then I remind myself—if I don’t keep going, who will? Representation matters, and every step forward makes it a little easier for the next person. That hope keeps me showing up, even on the hard days.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://bernicechao.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/hellobernice
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernicechao/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/bernicechao
