The Interview: Deidre Bembry
This month, The Paper publishes a pair of Interviews with champions of two, big, local non-profits. They share some life history and lessons. The first of the two interviews is with Deidre Bembry of Keris Kares.
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.
I am a Lover of life, foodie, family over everything, entrepreneur, and a girl’s girl! I am a risk taker when it comes to fun and adventure and a risk manager in my profession. I love people, places, and things!
Best piece of business advice you’ve received.
Always keep the main thing the main thing! Simple but so profound and true at the same time!
If I had it to do over …
I would learn to not stress about the little stuff a whole lot sooner… Just about everything can be fixed anyway so save yourself the wrinkles and worry.
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
Music: Prince’s The Hits/The B-Sides, Frankie Beverly and Maze Anthology.
Books: The Noticer, The Bible, Eat, Pray, Love.
Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know.
I am a science nerd. I was a biology/pre-med major in college and really thought hard about going into the medical field.
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why.
1 and 2: My paternal and maternal grandmothers! They were great cooks and I always enjoyed being in their presence. Maybe Grandma Mattie would bring angel biscuits and Grandma Lillian would bring her famous peach cobbler
3. Prince- because after dinner I would love a live music set.
4. My oldest Daughter Denver. She is an old soul and would love every minute of it and always tells me she would have loved to meet her great grands.
5. Oprah- Because maybe she would bring some of her favorite things to dinner
Name an as yet unfulfilled dream.
To travel abroad for a year. Visiting, exploring, tasting, documenting.
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …
Acting for sure! I was a thespian in high school and college. I wish I would have pushed it further.
Your go-to food.
I love a well prepared, well-seasoned Ribeye medium please! Since it’s a meal I will take some sautéed spinach on the side.
Favorite movies(s).
The Godfather 1 and The Lion King (original).
Dogs or cats?
Dogs please.
Your favorite quote and why:
“Reputation is who people think your are, character is who people know you are.” My grandfather used to say this me and I never forgot it.
Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.
Starting a 501c3 Non Profit, Keris Kares and keeping my daughter’s legacy alive.
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own?
Be yourself always! There is no substitute for YOU!
