Life with Bria Jones

I've been living in Scandinavia for 10 years now, and since most of my adult life has been abroad, it's hard to compare as they represent such different chapters for me. Perhaps what stands out most is that Denmark is certainly more homogenous than the US, and while that comes with benefits (a strong sense of cohesion, shared values, and a well-functioning society), I definitely miss the cultural diversity I grew up in, especially as a woman of colour. There’s a richness that comes from a more diverse population, where people from different backgrounds and experiences naturally bring depth and perspective. Growing up, I was used to seeing myself reflected in different ways, and that sense of familiarity and belonging is something I've had to navigate. That said, I definitely appreciate the quality of life in Denmark. I think it's an easy place to live – I've been lucky to build a great community and would say I feel more at home here than I do when going back to the US, which I think speaks to how.

I've been at Tekla for nearly 4 years, leading customer growth and CRM, using data to optimise various initiatives and enhance customer journeys. Alongside this, I work across broader marketing campaigns and activations, in addition to collaborating with e-commerce and retail, to drive a consistent, impactful experience across all touchpoints. It’s a mix of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, which suits me well because  I’ve always thrived in roles where I can wear many hats. I get to think big picture,  while also getting into the details of how things perform and how we evolve.

Then I'd say what drives me most is growth – both personal and professional. I’m motivated by new challenges, continuous learning, and turning complex problems into opportunities. I'd also say I'm quite deeply motivated to build brands that resonate with people on a deeper level. I’m always looking for patterns (in data, culture, behaviour) and using those to inform my work. I love when something strategic and considered can also feel personally and culturally relevant. That balance keeps me curious.

Honestly, it’s a layered question. I’m not sure I have a clear or simple answer. I've been travelling a lot this year, a huge part of that has been about escapism, but it’s also made me think more about what kind of life I want to come home to. In a way, being away has inspired me to focus more on the everyday, how I live and how I feel about my life.

I’ve also been really inspired by people around me who are carving out their space in the world: starting businesses, following their passions, or just making bold choices. Seeing people pursue what gives them energy has encouraged me to think more about what that looks like in my own life. So maybe it’s not one big thing inspiring me right now, but a quiet shift – paying more attention to what feels real and energising for me.

I wouldn’t say I have one go-to outfit; it's all about the mood/occasion. I'm quite a simple girl, though, so the power players in my wardrobe are definitely a white tee, good denim, ballet flats, and a cashmere layer for the unpredictable Scandi weather. Simple, clean, and comfortable – it’s what makes me feel most like myself.

I’m currently reading "It Begins With You" by Jillian Turnecki, which focuses on understanding and taking accountability for your patterns and how they transform connections/relationships with others.

For my upcoming vacation, I'm planning to bring "Salt" (which explores the history and significance of salt). Lately, I’ve become more interested in global dynamics and world history. And as part of an effort to shift my focus from always looking ahead, I’m working my way through a reading list that dives into the past. It's a long list, but includes books like: "The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich", "Butler to the World: The Book the Oligarchs Don’t Want You to Read", "A People’s History of the United States", "Empireworld: How British Imperialism Has Shaped the Globe", "Nixonland".

I’ve also recently finished "Lessons in Chemistry", which was such an easy read – totally recommend it if you’re after something light but meaningful.

Content by: @bria.jo