From the halls of the Philadelphia City Council to the challenges of single motherhood, Blondell Reynolds-Brown's memoir Walking a Tightrope Backward in High Heels offers an unflinching look at what it takes to succeed in the bruising arena of big-city politics. As one of Philadelphia's most influential councilwomen, Reynolds-Brown shattered glass ceilings and championed transformative legislation for women, children, and families during her remarkable twenty-year tenure.But behind the headlines and policy victories lay a more intimate story: that of a divorced, single mother navigating the delicate balance between personal ambition and family obligations. With remarkable candor, Reynolds-Brown reveals the storms she weathered, including a public campaign controversy that threatened to derail everything she'd built. Yet through it all, she demonstrates how to "adjust the sail" when the winds of change blow fierce. Part political memoir, part leadership manifesto, this powerful account from a pioneering public servant shows what's possible with equal measures of moxie and grace. Reynolds-Brown's journey from educator to accomplished legislator offers an inspiring blueprint for anyone who's ever had to fight twice as hard to get half as far—and emerged stronger for it.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Blondell Reynolds-Brown's commitment to public service began long before her twenty-year political career as a Philadelphia City Councilwoman at Large. A fierce legislator, she championed women's advancement, and opportunities for children, and families. Reynolds-Brown's impact extended to the arts, minorities, women-owned businesses, LGBTQIA rights, and environmental initiatives. During her tenure, she authored dozens of transformative bills that became law that created lasting changes across multiple sectors, from increasing women's representation on boards to strengthening leadership roles in non-profit and government spaces. Her passion for mentoring the next generation of leaders shines through her signature initiative,"The Celebration of Moxie Women," where she coaches young women and girls to reach their full potential. Currently, Reynolds-Brown serves as a Senior Advisor at Frank DiCicco Associates, where she continues to influence public policy. A proud Penn State alumna, Reynolds-Brown holds both bachelor's and master’s degrees in Elementary Education. She maintains deep roots in Philadelphia and remains an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Moxie Women
Chapter Two
Motherhood
Brielle Autumn Brown
The Dancer In City Hall
Chapter Four
Passing the Baton
Chapter Sixteen
REVIEWS
Walking a Tightrope Backward in High Heels is a must-read guide for every woman who is considering a career in politics. Ms. Reynolds-Brown’s story gives it to you straight—no chaser. From the smoke-filled back rooms packed with male party bosses dictating who gets to sit at the decision-making table; Reynolds-Brown broke down barriers by not only demanding a seat at the table but bringing other women along with her.
—Joann Bell, Chair of Black Women’s Leadership Council of Pennsylvania
Blondell Reynolds-Brown’s Walking a Tightrope Backwards in High Heels, Blindfolded is a testament to courage, perseverance, and purpose. Her story is both an unflinching account of the trials of political life and an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience, integrity, and heart. This book is not just a memoir—it is a masterclass in leadership, grit, and hope.
Susan Jacobson, President
Jacobson Strategic Communications,
Philadelphia, PA
You will be enlightened by Blondell’s transparency of her personal failure and career stumble that left her stronger and clear-eyed because of her faith. “Everyone has a copyright on their own life,” including Blondell.
— Sheryl Lee Ralph Hughes, Actress, Singer, Author, Soror & State Senator Vincent Hughes, Seventh Senatorial District, Philadelphia, PA
