Leading Ladies: Brittany Murphy

Story by Amelia Bowen
Brittany Murphy does not subscribe to the idea that real leadership requires a corporate title or a traditional classroom textbook. A Warren East High School graduate raised in Smiths Grove, her true education came straight from years on the floor in customer service. Through hands-on experience, she learned how to read a room, manage personnel and handle high-pressure situations with steady confidence. Today, as manager of Purple Toad Winery’s Bowling Green tasting room, she sets the operational standard from the moment doors open. Before guests arrive to relax by the stone fireplace, Brittany is already managing fine details behind the scenes. She ensures the main floor looks crisp and welcoming, coordinates daily staffing and prepares the space for afternoon visits and busy evening gatherings. Once the room fills, her favorite place to be remains right on the floor, guiding visitors through the winery’s extensive selection of local wines and spirits. “Both personal and professional missions for my life are centered around being intentional, grounded and staying true to my authentic self,” Brittany says. “Accountability is going to either make you or break you. Always remain open to learning and stay humble. If you do these things, I see no reason why you shouldn’t flourish.” That drive for self-reliance was forged through real-life experience. Raising her two children, Layla and Ryder, as a single mother while maintaining a demanding full-time management career required thick skin, fierce independence and an unrelenting work ethic. Providing for her family independently remains her greatest personal victory. She credits much of her professional growth to her mentor, Cassie Saltsman, whose high standards pushed Brittany to step boldly into larger roles. In a fast-paced hospitality environment, Brittany defines true leadership by a single benchmark: remaining calm, focused and composed no matter how chaotic a situation becomes. “Never allow yourself to have to depend on anyone else in this life,” Brittany says. “Find your purpose and let that be the driving force in your life.” Outside the tasting room, the passionate animal advocate actively supports local pet adoption efforts, the Bowling Green/Warren County Humane Society and St. Vincent de Paul while prioritizing quality time with her children. “Don’t be sorry, just do better,” Brittany says. “Actions always prove why words mean nothing.”