Welcome

to my journey of authenticity, resilience, and empowerment.

I’m Anna Crowe — a founder, speaker, author, and champion of living an authentic and extraordinary life. My journey has been anything but ordinary. From immigrating to the United States to building a career that fuses my love of storytelling, leadership, and personal growth, I’ve learned that life rewards those who show up with courage, vision, and heart.

Today, I stand on stages, write books, and work with individuals and organizations to inspire bold leadership and meaningful transformation. I believe that the most remarkable lives are built from the inside out — by embracing authenticity, overcoming challenges, and unlocking the superpowers we all possess.

A Little About My Journey

I was born and raised in Moscow, Russia, where my story began with lessons in resilience. As an immigrant, I quickly learned that resilience isn’t just a skill—it’s a mindset. Moving to the United States and navigating a new culture, language, and career taught me that growth comes from leaning into discomfort and believing in the possibilities that lie ahead.

My professional journey started in auditing, but my path soon took unexpected turns that enriched my life in profound ways. One of my first milestones was working on the launch of Jennifer Lopez’s first fragrance—a project that sparked my love for creativity and entrepreneurship.

Eager to expand my horizons, I pursued an MBA and moved to California, where I worked in the fast-paced world of entertainment at EMI Music/Capitol Records in Los Angeles. One unforgettable moment? Standing in during soundcheck for Ringo Starr—a surreal experience that reminded me of the magic of possibility.

In 2015, after years of building expertise and navigating life’s ups and downs, I started my own business, Crowe PR. The journey has been extraordinary. From being named one of the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies in America for three consecutive years to creating a company culture that earned us “Best Places to Work” accolades, I’m proud of the community and impact we’ve built.

My personal life has been just as defining. I’ve been married for 19 years to my incredible partner, and together, we’re raising two boys who continue to inspire me daily. Life has tested me, too. In 2019, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, undergoing surgery and a journey of healing that deepened my perspective. In 2023, I faced breast cancer, with multiple surgeries reinforcing my belief in the power of resilience and gratitude.

Amid all this, I’ve celebrated professional milestones I never imagined. In 2024, I became the first woman president of the San Diego Chapter of the global Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), a role that feels like the culmination of so many lessons in leadership, authenticity, and courage.

Through it all, my passion for storytelling and empowering others has only grown. Writing two books—Get Real and Lead Like a Woman—and building a speaking platform have allowed me to share my story in ways that inspire others to live and lead with purpose, bravery, and alignment.

Today, I speak on stages, work with individuals and organizations, and lead transformative conversations about embracing authenticity, overcoming challenges, and unlocking the superpowers we all possess. I believe that the most remarkable lives are built from the inside out—by celebrating who we truly are and daring to live boldly.

  • 1978

    Born in Moscow, Russia as Anya Checklina; oldest of two.

  • 1984

    First grade, first day of school – teacher picks me to ring the first day bell because I was "the lightest" child.

  • 1987

    My sister Katya joins the family.

  • 1989

    My family moves to America, to the Bronx, NY.

  • 1990

    My first business trip! Heading to the airport with my dad.

  • 1995

    Summer internship in Manhattan.

  • 2000

    Graduate Rutgers College, with Accounting degree.

  • 2000

    Started my professional journey in Manhattan, as a staff auditor at Deloitte; photo from training session (and early leadership inklings).

  • 2005

    Marry Wayne near San Diego Courthouse, weeks after moving there for grad school (Oct. 12).

  • 2007

    Head to Los Angeles, with MBA in hand, for a leadership role at the iconic Capitol Records building.

  • 2014

    Soaking up motherhood with my two boys.

  • 2015

    First day of operations at Crowe PR, an integrated PR firm I started out of a coffee shop; blank canvas.

  • 2019

    Launch of the debut book “Get Real. The Power of Genuine Leadership, a Transparent Culture, and an Authentic You.”

  • 2019

    Get diagnosed with stage 2 thyroid cancer two months after book launch; recovering beachside after surgery.

  • 2021

    Receive SDBJ woman of the year award.

  • 2023

    Early tests show a 5 cm cancerour tumor in m y breast; photo before 3 surgeries and treatments.

  • 2023

    Named to San Diego’s list of Most Influential People.

  • 2023

    First of several tennis matches and conversations with Sir Richard Branson on Necker Island.

  • 2024

    Crowe PR listed on Inc. 5000 for the third consecutive year.

  • 2024

    Embracing life as first female president of the San Diego Chapter of the Global Entrepreneurs Organization.

Thank you for reading my story. Learn more about my speaking engagements, books, and podcasts.