Getting your innovative ideas to market is tricky and overwhelming when you don’t have a solid strategy or connections with the right people. While more than 95% of product innovations likely fail, 92% of startups also fail. So how do you successfully get products to market?  Rache Brand is a woman of many hats, but more importantly, she is an innovative brand expert when it comes to commercializing big ideas and getting products to market. She is also a self-proclaimed ‘human collector’ and has honed in on the value of promoting a robust community.  Not only is Rache’s resume impressive from her vital role with Chobani seeing the company revenue grow from $23 million to $880 million in four years to running her own business as well as being the Innovation Lead as part of CT Next in Hartford, CT. Rache has also lived in several amazing places with unique experiences leading to her specialty in connecting with people and creating communities.   Key Highlights to Help You Rethink Getting Your Ideas to Market:  Building an ecosystem around innovation  Creating a robust community  Commercializing big ideas   Consulting to solve big problems for a path forward  “I really try hard not to just make assumptions or share my specific ideas, right out of the gate without knowing all the information, because the reality is, there are many ways to slice and dice the opportunity to get you where you want to go.” - Rache Brand  Rache also takes the high-level approach to seemingly complex problems. She takes several steps back to see the bigger community picture first. Once she knows what is being done well and the options available, then she determines the best path forward. Regardless of your product or service, thinking with an eye on innovation is a great way to implement as you grow your business.  Connect with Rache Brand:  Website  Instagram  Connect with Nancy:  NancySheed.com  

As we are all completely reliant on computers and technology to operate and grow our business, tech guru Linda Kuppersmith is back for the fourth episode in the “All Things IT” series to discuss everything you need to know about purchasing computers for your business and personal needs. Linda is not only the President and Chief Technology Advisor of CMIT Solutions, but she is also on the HAYVN board of advisors.   Whether you are business owner or an employee, in this post-covid era, you are likely working remotely and have needed to set up your computers, online access points and all its related technology in a different fashion. Making these computer decisions can be overwhelming, confusing and tedious – and frustrating given supply chain challenges in our post covid world.   In 2021, roughly 340 million PCs and 277 million laptops were shipped around the world.  What you should know to be safe, be smart, and be productive when buying business computers:  Commit to invest in computer best for your business needs  Decide if a laptop is best for you versus a desktop computer  Go with a minimum of 8 gigabytes of memory  Consider a strategy for business tech upgrades and new computers  Linda takes the complication out of technology so you can have a clear understanding and vision of how all technologies work for you and against you.   3 Takeaway Tips from Linda  TIP #1 Buy directly from the manufacturer for the best quality  TIP #2 A business-class computer will last longer  TIP #3 Cloud programs push code through browsers back to your hard drive affecting processing and storage  “If you're spending six-plus hours a day on your computer, you're going to benefit by having a second monitor…” - Linda Kuppersmith  Deciding on the right computer to build your business on is not easy. With Linda breaking down these industry terms you are able to access where you are, what you have, and strategize when and how to upgrade the technology for your business.   Connect with Linda Kuppersmith:  Website  Linda’s Tech Tips  Email: Linda@CMITstamford.com   Connect with Nancy:  NancySheed.com  

As of 2021, 94% of enterprises are using cloud services worldwide! According to Cloudsward, the cloud storage market is projected to increase to $832 billion by 2025. Clearly, cloud storage is a major concern for large enterprises, small businesses, and individuals.  Linda Kuppersmith is joining host Nancy Sheed for a third “All Things IT” episode to discuss cloud storage and what you need to know to be better informed and prepared to take the next step today.   Over 92% of people are using cloud storage in some capacity  4 Things You Must Know About Cloud Storage:  Using cloud storage is like using someone else’s hard drive  Your data should be organized and categorized on the cloud  Certain clouds are better for certain data usage  When the best time is to bring an IT advisor on board   “The rule of thumb is, if it's free, it’s probably not going have too much security.” - Linda Kuppersmith  Linda is very thorough in explaining the nuances of cloud storage, and why it matters to your online security. Once you have a working knowledge of these technology options you can make better decisions in how you build out your business.   Knowing where to start and what to ask about will help you avoid unnecessary and painful expenses later down the road when you are ready to scale and take your business to the next level.  Connect with Linda Kuppersmith:  Website  Linda’s Tech Tips  Email: Linda@CMITstamford.com   Connect with Nancy:  NancySheed.com  

It’s been reported that over 85% of data breaches that happen are due to weak passwords. The usual signs of a weak password are using your pet’s name, recycling the same few passwords repeatedly, or using your date of birth and any family or friend names. Linda Kuppersmith is not only the President and Chief Technology Advisor of CMIT Solutions, but she is also on the HAYVN board of advisors. She’s joining us in the second part of this “All Things IT” series to address what best practices you should follow for more secure password management. Cybercriminals are making $4 trillion globally Key highlights: Password theft is a problem for everyone How a password vault works Why to use second factor authentication When to get IT support  “I'm looking to be able to save the world one password at a time.” Password Tips: Get your passwords into one place and categorize Select 4 random words connected with numbers and symbols in between. Change your passwords frequently Check out more Tech Tips here. Connect with IT expert Linda Kuppersmith: Website Email Connect with Nancy: NancySheed.com  

Technology is evolving faster and faster as more and more solutions and innovations come to the marketplace. Information security, compliance, automation, and integrations are just part of the problems and concerns facing small business owners and entrepreneurs. Knowing what to give your attention to, how to implement, and what to implement can feel overwhelming.  HAYVN Hubcast is bringing you a mini-series on “All Things IT: Keeping You Safe, Smart, and Productive.” In this first episode, Linda Kuppersmith, President and Chief Technology Advisor at CMIT Solutions, joins Nancy to discuss technology trends affecting you and your business.   Trends to Be Aware of:  Speed of technology innovation is like never before  Wi-Fi use at home is increasing and demands your attention  Artificial Intelligence is creating more tailored experiences  Virtual reality is more than gaming & movies, it’s interactive education  Linda’s Tech Tips:  TIP #1 Check your internet bill yearly and replace outdated Wi-Fi  TIP #2 Be strategic about wiring and setting home for technology  Check out more for Linda’s Tech Tips here.  Connect with IT expert Linda Kuppersmith:  Website  Email  Connect with Nancy:  NancySheed.com  

Pre-Covid, working from home sounded like a dream come true for some. Post-Covid, many of us have found out that it’s not all we dreamed it would be. Navigating constant distractions and needing someone to engage with besides your toddler or dog has become essential. HAYVN founder, Felicia Rubinstein, started the HAYVN community in 2019, anticipating that nearly 30% of the workforce would be working remotely by 2030. The women-centric business community and hybrid workspace she’s created is providing so much more than an escape from home. HAYVN Highlights Being Discussed: 3 Pillars of Focus How HAYVN is propelling women-led businesses forward The magic of the HAYVN community Various ways HAYVN is providing support, growth, and community “I'm just trying to create the platform to find the magic, not force it.” - Felicia Rubinstein, Havyn Founder The strength and magic behind HAYVN’s success and the HAYVN experience for so many women is Felicia’s ability to pivot quickly and remain open to the voices of the women in the community.  This hybrid workspace has moved beyond the physical space and exists virtually. Women are making connections and supporting one another in ways that Felicia had no way to plan for or expect. From sustainability groups to masterminds and educational programs to advance women entrepreneurs, HAYVN is evidence of what is possible when you set the table and allow the incredible to join you. Check out the two episodes mentioned featuring Galia Gichon and Heather Terry. Connect with Felicia Rubinstein: Website Instagram Email: hello@havyn.com  Connect with Nancy: NancySheed.com 

Starting a business can be a dream come true that turns into an overwhelming situation quickly. You may have started your business thinking about your product or services, marketing, sales, social media strategies, accounting, and business coaches, but what is the one thing you left out and needed just as much, if not more?  Legal guidance from an attorney.  Alexis Brooks is an attorney specializing in women-owned small businesses. She provides legal advice and support that keeps businesses thriving.  In this episode you will learn the critical infrastructure and organization that business attorneys like Alexis brings to the table. From registering your business to protecting your business, and resolving issues with current, former, or prospective employees, business attorneys play a vital role in expanding, protecting, and handling your business.  Key topics unpacked:  Establishing legal practices that protect the business  Post-COVID reality for small businesses surviving Newer hiring practices  “Employers need to be up on what is happening from a legislative standpoint” -Alexis Brooks  Alexis also shares how her journey led to the experience and exposure she needed to eventually found Brooks Law PLLC. An incredible fact about Alexis is that she graduated from law school with a 10 day old newborn. She’s pursued practicing law and finds satisfaction in being part of Havyn’s amazing business community. Sharing her legal knowledge with others is how Alexis continues to grow and impact women-owned businesses.  Connect with Alexis Brooks:  Website  LinkedIn  Email: ACB@brooks-lawpllc.com   Connect with Nancy:  NancySheed.com  

How many times in your career have you felt your levels of motivation waning off after days and weeks of not connecting to your work and its meaningfulness? Feeling burned out from years of climbing the corporate ladder takes a toll on many of us. Eileen Springer, is the founder of Central Park Executive Coaching. She decided to make a major pivot in her own career in the course of one day while attending a certification and executive coaching program at Columbia University. Eileen provides executive coaching formulated from years of experience with the HR advisory board specializing in leadership development. Key topics discussed: How a sudden pivot leads to running her own business and consulting Effects of a post-pandemic introspection How the Great Resignation has impacted employers Questions to yourself if you’re considering giving your notice Eileen’s experience networking and building relationships in Havyn If you decide to make a career change, Eileen shares wisdom backed by experience on ways to better transition and show up in the next phase of your career. “It's very important to prepare for the first few months of a job and to be deliberate about how you're going to be planful in settling in into a new role.” -Eileen Springer Connect with Eileen Springer: Website Instagram Email: Eileen@CentralParkExecutivecoaching.com  Connect with Nancy: NancySheed.com 

Today Nancy is talking with Dr. Katherine Saunders. She is an obesity medicine physician at Weill Cornell Medicine. She specializes in the care of patients with obesity and weight-related medical complications. Dr. Saunders is also a co-founder of Intellihealth, a healthcare technology company whose mission is to scale and democratize access to effective obesity treatment. Her husband brings his tech and entrepreneurial experience to the team. Katherine shares the large gap between healthcare professionals and those who need the specialized support. While the numbers are staggering, she is optimistic. The conversation around obesity is changing from “eat less, move more” and that shift is creating more opportunities for new solutions. Find out why they use a two-pronged approach. They are working with patients and are also dedicated to educating and supporting practitioners who want to have other options for those they treat. Like all of us, COVID required changing how Katherine worked with her patients. Using online consultations is now widely accepted and it means she can help even more people. Katherine outlines first steps that people can take if weight loss is part of their health goals. It’s not (just) about food. They start with a comprehensive analysis that includes health, diet, medications, lifestyle and other concerns. It’s important to know it’s never just one thing. As a busy mom, Katherine is splitting her time with family, treating patients and working in the company. She also shares how winning HAYVN Hatch opened up many opportunities. As she explains “there’s such a need among women to have a support system” and that’s what she’s found with her women peers. What’s next? Direct to consumer support is part of the future at Intellihealth. That will allow Katherine and her team to help people who don’t have access to care in their local community. Connect with Katherine: https://www.intellihealth.co/ https://www.evolveme.health/ Connect with Nancy: Website Instagram  

Are you ready for a brand new life rhythm? Today’s guest Kristen Rzasa brings a unique approach to entrepreneurship. She’s a life and business strategist and helps her clients find balance that leads to greater success. Kristen’s brings her corporate and entrepreneurial experience to everything she does. Her corporate job was with Daimler Chrysler and she had a side hustle too. When she found herself outside of corporate, she went into fulltime entrepreneurship. After years of being driven, and successful she realized she was burned out and in danger of breaking down. Kristen made another big shift. That’s where conversations about life rhythm began. She explains the 4 components that help her understand her client’s priorities. It’s eye-opening to hear how she can discover where things are out of alignment. You’ll love the example Nancy shares. What if we said, “it’s not a priority” instead of “I don’t have time?” What would change for you? It’s time to create a new rhythm in our lives. That begins with living our values. Reprioritizing what really matters to us is the first step Kristen takes with her clients. What are you waiting for? Today is the day. No more waiting until. Kristen shares how HAYVN has brought a sense of community that she realized she was missing. Collaboration and the opportunity to receive and give back is also fulfilling. Connect with Kristen: Website – Get her Rhythm Reset Guide Instagram Connect with Nancy: Website Instagram