Meet Bree

Bree Dodd brings extensive experience and expertise in the field of operational project management for many notable organizations across multiple industries. When not guiding projects towards successful completion, Bree teaches yoga in Richmond, VA, and dotes on her Bernese Mountain Dog.

This Q&A will help you get to know what experiences Bree Dodd brings to the Open Eye team.

We’ve all come to Open Eye from diverse backgrounds. What are some of your career or personal highlights to date?

Bree Dodd: My greatest highlight to date was my jump into entrepreneurship. Over a year ago I moved to Richmond, Virginia and promptly opened a yoga studio. Experiencing the different roles of being an entrepreneur and owner in the yoga industry was thrilling (and equally as terrifying!). I recently decided to close the studio and shift the yoga concept/brand, however, the experience of owning a brick and mortar business was invaluable for my personal and professional growth. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to build an inclusive and kind community; a community that has outlasted the physical studio space.

Outside feedback is enormously important for businesses. What’s some feedback that you’ve received personally that helped you grow?

BD: “If you’re not making mistakes, then you’re not making decisions.” I think a shared human experience is fear of failure, and that fear becoming a barrier to making decisions and taking risks. This is something I have struggled with in the past, but with the help of mentors + personal experience, it is just that, a thing of the past. Being willing to make mistakes is what will elevate your work and your life.

We all try to bring a lot to the table at Open Eye. On the Open Eye team, what’s your superpower?

BD: I always joke with people that my job as a project manager is herding cats, but what that really means is I have a knack for balancing the emotions and needs of a diverse team.

We’re fond of the saying, “If you can not measure it, you can not improve it.” What’s one thing you think an organization should immediately start measuring that they likely aren’t?

BD: Wellness! Most American adults spend half or more of their waking hours working. Where we work, how long we work, the conditions of our work and who we work with all impact our health. A wellness-focused culture makes a difference in improving productivity, eliminating burnout and decreasing turnover.

What do you love doing in your spare time?

BD: I teach yoga and love being active myself. Whether it’s a spin class, CrossFit, or hiking, I try to get a good sweat in once a day. I also have a Bernese Mountain Dog that I’m a little (ok, a lot) obsessed with. I spend a decent amount of time with her making sure she gets plenty of screen time on Instagram stories.