Cléo Nash
What makes Cléo Wildly Capable?
Cléo is like a stealth jet. She is quiet and humble and oftentimes goes unnoticed by those around her. But behind the scenes, she’s the badass Executive Director of ISA (Independent Shopkeepers Association) and the backbone of the Holiday Pop-Up Shops. She’s the woman getting the real work done!” RACHAEL GRUNTMEIR
What makes you feel proud?
I’m proud that I don’t let obstacles get in the way or dwell on the negatives. No matter what I encounter, I always focus on the silver linings or possible solutions. Even when objectively bad things happen to me, I take it with humor and positivity. It may sometimes look like I’m not taking things seriously, but I see it as a strength.
Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?
My husband is my biggest influence, without a doubt. His work ethic and desire to make Oklahoma City a better place are unrivaled. I’ve never met anyone as passionate as he is about taking on big projects and bringing ideas to life with the only goal of making things better for people. He’s the best person to brainstorm with and has inspired me since day one.
What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?
I’ve faced a few challenges over the years but the most surprising one so far was finding out I had a brain tumor last fall. It wasn’t something I had expected to hear at 32 but I was lucky enough to meet with the best doctors and quickly put a plan of action together. Like I’ve said, I don’t tend to let obstacles get in the way... even brain surgery! Temporarily losing vision in one eye and the overall unknowns of recovery were an interesting new experience but my bad jokes and positivity got me back on my feet in record time.
One year from today, how do you hope you’re different?
I don’t necessarily hope to be different. I just hope I keep bettering myself instead – master new skills, see more of the world, maybe learn a new language, and continue to find new ways to support local retail.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Listen more than you speak. I’m a woman of few words so this isn’t a hard practice to implement but it has turned out to be so true. Listening is an essential first step in any conversation, professional or personal, and it’s unfortunately too often skipped. No problem has ever been efficiently solved by assuming we already know the answer.
