“Keep learning—things change daily, and you never know how things unfold. Make yourself the “GO-To-Person.” Make yourself the expert.”
Kimberly A. Guedes shared that advice during our photo session before starting her own biotech consulting firm, GLIAL Consulting.
“When you’re in a startup, you need to be flexible and resilient. Everything becomes everyone’s responsibility if you want to succeed. Everyone has to chip in and get things done.”
“I want to bring that entrepreneurial spirit into my consulting firm, GLIAL Consulting. GLIAL cells are a type of cell in your nervous system that provide support and help. They keep everything (neurons) together. That’s what I like to do—I love moving all of the different pieces around, ensuring that research programs are moving forward. I also enjoy helping people get to their next milestone. It is important to take time to mentor and grow others.”
“GLIAL helps biotech companies with development strategy, CMC, Clinical Operations-IND enabling studies through NDA. We want to be a partner, the proverbial “ Right Arm.”
Something I’d tell my younger self (and that I tell my children): Don’t worry about people judging you. Go out and be you. You have to be authentic—people will love you for who and what you are, and If they don’t, move on. You are worth more.”
“Alissa’s in my core group with Chief, and I saw her photos’ amazingness. I loved the life she created after being let go from her job. I was also laid off and needed a new start. It was Alissa who helped inspire me to open my own LLC. It was such a wonderful experience, and I loved meeting someone from my core group face-to-face.”
Thank you, Kimberly, for sharing your advice with us.
About Alissa
Alissa Randall is a portrait photographer based in New Jersey and New York City, known for creating images that feel both elevated and deeply personal. While professional headshots remain a cornerstone of her work, her photography has grown to include personal branding, women’s empowerment, family connection sessions, and expressive portraits of dogs and the people who love them.
Her approach blends editorial artistry with empathy and guidance, helping people feel comfortable enough to be fully seen in front of the camera. Whether photographing an executive, an entrepreneur, a family, or a beloved dog, Alissa creates photographs that reflect more than appearance. They reflect presence, personality, connection, and story.
Alissa photographs in NJ, NYC, and on location beyond the tri-state area. Explore more of her work on the homepage and discover stories behind the images on the blog.