It takes a strong, smart, and feisty woman to keep up with Sarah, Schmidt Associates’ CEO. But, have no doubt, Patricia Brant is definitely up for the task!

 

 

 

 

Let’s start with your background
Well, I come from a family of six, so I am used to having constant motion around me. After high school, I started as a customer service representative, moved on to become a receptionist, an administrative assistant, and eventually worked my way up through the ranks to become an Executive Assistant. I’ve been serving C-suite execs for approximately 15 years now, and I really do enjoy it. One of my favorite quotes is from the late author and psychotherapist, Alan Loy McGinnis, who said, “There is no more noble occupation in the world than to assist another human being – to help someone succeed.” I do that every day, and I’m proud of the work I do “behind the scenes”.

On a personal level, I am a single mother to Meg, a graduate student at Ball State, studying sociology. In the Summer of 2014 I purchased my first home, in Speedway. It was originally built in 1929 to house the construction workers building the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It needs some renovations, but generally speaking, it has “good bones”.

What inspires you?
My daughter inspires me. She inspires me to be a better person. It’s funny, even if I wasn’t her mom, I would still like her! I love how she sees the good in everything and everyone. And, no one makes me laugh as hard as she does. Our laugh-fests are epic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What do you do in your free time?
I love to read (currently reading “My Life on the Road”, by Gloria Steinem). I also enjoying going to outdoor concerts and flea markets. I don’t buy a lot, but I enjoy looking. I think the flea markets draw me in with “old” things. I have a thing for old pitchers and chairs—even ones that aren’t functional. Maybe it is the story that they carry that I don’t know? I have never really thought about that.

What’s your favorite movie?
My favorite movie is The Thorn Birds (1983)—a made-for-TV mini-series starring, Richard Chamberlain and Rachel Ward. I loved the movie so much, I named my daughter after the main female character.

Do you have any hidden talents?
I can touch my nose with my tongue.

Working on Mass Ave, what is your favorite food down here?
Of course I love The Flying Cupcake. The strawberry one, “Pretty in Pink”, is my favorite. But Bazbeaux is still one of my favs!

So next time you call or stop by the office and you find yourself talking to Patricia, say hello and introduce yourself. Her infectious smile, bubbly personality, and catchy laugh is sure to lift your mood.

 

Also learn about Sarah Hempstead, Tricia Smith, Charlie Wilson, Tom Neff, Joe Redar, and Dave Jones