Andrea Hawkins, Leading Culture Solutions
Meet Andrea Hawkins, a dynamic entrepreneur and strategic thinker, seamlessly blending business acumen with a deep commitment to fostering inclusive communities. As the founder of Leading Culture Solutions and co-owner of Berkins Blend Cafe and Berkins on Main, she has made it her mission to create spaces - both physical and organizational - where people feel valued, connected, and empowered to thrive.
Andrea’s career spans executive leadership roles at Aetna, CIGNA Healthcare, and Prudential, where she honed her expertise in culture transformation. But her passion for fostering trust and engagement extends far beyond the boardroom - it’s about people. Through Leading Culture Solutions, she partners with organizations to cultivate cultures that prioritize relationships, equity, and meaningful leadership.
The Berkins cafés, built alongside her husband Doug Barber, were designed to be more than just coffee shops. They’re vibrant gathering places, where job seekers, entrepreneurs, and neighbors find community, encouragement, and opportunity over a cup of coffee.
Andrea’s leadership extends into community advocacy, having lent her expertise to organizations like the Amistad Center for Art & Culture and YWCA Hartford Region. Through every endeavor, her leadership remains deeply rooted in service. Because to Andrea, success isn’t just about achievement - it’s about impact.
We are honored to feature her in the Poise and Purpose portrait collective, which celebrates her leadership and amplifies her mission.
Andrea, who is impacted by the work that you do?
Organizations that choose to work with our firm experience a profound impact, as we help them align leadership, strengthen culture, and drive meaningful transformation. Our work influences CEOs, executive teams, and employees at all levels, fostering environments where leaders thrive, teams collaborate effectively, and organizations achieve sustainable success. Through our strategic guidance, we help shape workplaces that are more engaged, inclusive, and high performing.
Do you have a personal connection to this work?
Yes, my work is deeply personal. With years of experience in Strategic Planning, Culture Transformation, and Leadership Development, I’ve seen firsthand how strong leadership and intentional culture can drive lasting success. It’s important to me that every organization we work with emerges stronger, more aligned, and better positioned for the future, creating workplaces where leaders and teams can thrive.
While rewarding, purpose-driven work can also require significant energy from us. Do you have a self-care routine that helps you maintain balance?
Yes, I prioritize self-care to maintain balance and sustain the energy needed for purpose-driven work. Walking in nature helps me clear my mind, gain fresh perspectives, and stay grounded. Reading fuels my curiosity and broadens my understanding, while music serves as both a source of inspiration and relaxation. These practices allow me to recharge, stay present, and bring my best self to the work I do.
Has there been a particular challenge in your own life, where looking back now, you realize it was a pivotal moment in your own growth journey?
Yes, throughout my life and career, I’ve faced challenges—layoffs, toxic leaders, and unhealthy cultures—each shaping my resilience and perspective. The most pivotal challenge was trusting in my ability to thrive through the network I had built over the years. This belief was tested when I made the bold decision to start Leading Culture Solutions, leaving behind the security and benefits of a W-2 job that my family had relied on for so long.
Stepping into entrepreneurship required immense courage, but it has been one of the most rewarding and transformative journeys of my life. Looking back, I only wish I had taken the leap sooner. The experience has reinforced my conviction that when we trust in our own capabilities and surround ourselves with the right people, we can create opportunities beyond what we imagined possible.
Community and mentorship are so important. Is there a particular person or persons from whom you’ve drawn inspiration over the years?
I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors throughout my journey, but two who stand out are JoAnn Price and Mike Israelite. Their unwavering honesty, guidance, and wisdom have been invaluable. They’ve helped me identify blind spots, challenge my own thinking, and expand my vision for what’s possible. Their encouragement has not only shaped my leadership but also reinforced the importance of paying it forward in mentoring others.
What advice would you offer the woman with a whisper in her heart to lean deeper into her power?
I would say, be afraid—but move toward your dreams anyway! Fear is natural, but it should never be a barrier to stepping into your power. I had to live a lot of life to realize that growth happens on the other side of discomfort. Trust yourself, embrace the journey, and know that you are more capable than you imagine. Your voice, your vision, and your impact matter— step forward with confidence.
