Business & Career Development

Project Management & Operations

Amidst the ever-evolving business landscape, I'm here to provide consultative services as your passionate project management guide. With a heart full of dedication, I bring a keen eye for detail and a strategic mindset to ensure seamless operations and high-performing teams. Through my nurturing leadership, I empower teams to flourish! Driven by an unyielding pursuit of growth, I constantly refine processes, embracing continuous improvement to unlock your business's full potential. Whether it's optimizing operations, empowering your teams, crafting foolproof plans, or revolutionizing processes, I'm here to collaborate and support you on this journey. Let's connect!

CEO & Co-Founder of Expert Session

As a published author, recognized industry expert, and CEO & co-founder of Expert Session, I have taught thousands of hours of web development and user experience classes all over the United States and consulted for organizations such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, and the U.S. government. I'm a technology and people leader who truly enjoys leveraging technology to deconstruct complex problems into straightforward solutions that bring value and new opportunities to clients and their businesses. I have expertise in multiple coding languages (Acquia certified Drupal developer), a strong background in cloud and SaaS architectures, in-depth experience creating and working with APIs, and vast experience in building and scaling up technical teams. As co-founder and CEO of Expert Session, I'm deeply passionate about leveraging technology to facilitate knowledge sharing on a global scale. With a solid technical background, I've always been fascinated by the potential of digital platforms to connect people and ideas. Expert Session is the culmination of this vision, where we're creating a vibrant community for experts and learners alike.

Leadership & Performance Coach

Dave is a seasoned professional adept at establishing a robust foundation of credibility and trust with both teams and leaders. In his roles as an operations manager, supervisor, and team leader, he has consistently empowered team members to take ownership while fostering a collaborative team-oriented culture built upon open communication. Transitioning into a successful performance and leadership coach in 2006, Dave has effectively applied this mindset to transformative work with clients globally. His extensive leadership and coaching experiences have equipped him with profound proficiency in managing diverse personalities and generational differences within teams. Dave firmly believes that all successful outcomes stem from building relationships and influencing stakeholders to identify and achieve their objectives. Once objectives are clarified, he guides clients in identifying and mitigating personal interferences, whether refining intentionality, enhancing active communication skills, honing executive presence, or navigating challenging conversations. Drawing on his comprehensive understanding of human and organizational behavior, Dave, a certified Myers-Briggs Practitioner, coaches leaders across all organizational levels, from front-line supervisors to Presidents. His expertise spans core leadership skills, including communication, trust-building, expectation setting, accountability, handling difficult conversations, fostering continuous improvement and more. As an ICF and Board-certified leadership coach, Dave leverages his manufacturing (both union and non-union) and background in the US Navy to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental environment. This environment enables leaders to fully engage in discovering and addressing their current coaching goals and objectives alongside him.

Finance & Venture Capital Consultant

My name is Souraya, and I am a finance professional with a background in computer engineering. As a CFA Charterholder, I have developed a deep understanding of finance. I am also certified in ESG Investing, which allows me to identify and quantify sustainability metrics to guide responsible investing. I have always been fascinated by the intersection of finance and technology, and my background in computer engineering allows me to bring a fresh and innovative approach to my work. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with various startups, providing them with strategic advice and guidance as they navigate the complex world of finance. As a venture capitalist, I have a keen eye for identifying promising investment opportunities and helping startups grow and thrive. I recently launched Melting Point, a NYC-based innovation consultancy in venture capital where investors and operators can have both their business and marketing needs tended to. Another career highlight is currently serving as a fractional CFO for a fast-growing technology company. In this role, I am responsible for overseeing the company's financial operations, managing cash flow, and providing strategic financial guidance. I am able to leverage my expertise in financial modeling and business strategy to help the company achieve its goals and secure funding for future growth. I am passionate about making a positive impact through my work. I believe that finance can be a force for good, and I am committed to promoting impact investing and sustainable business practices. I strive to help companies not only achieve financial success but also create a positive social and environmental impact. If you are looking for a fractional CFO or need advice on venture capital, investment research and analysis, due diligence or financial modeling, I am the ideal candidate. With my diverse skill set and passion for finance, I am confident that I can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you achieve your financial goals. Thank you for considering me as your trusted finance professional. I look forward to the opportunity of working with you and making a meaningful impact in the world of finance.

Strategy Leader & Tech Founder

Hey there! I'm Lauren, a strategy leader and founder with deep experience in building and executing complex strategies across a range of organizations & initiatives. Versatility is my superpower, moving ably between the 10K foot level & the weeds with deep competencies in corporate development, strategic planning, leadership, team building, analytics, financial modeling, business intelligence, and growth strategies. My professional journey started in management consulting where I developed a versatile toolkit before moving into tech for the last decade. Most notably, I spent many years at Foursquare where I grew to become the head of strategy & corporate development for the global business during periods of immense change, including its pivot from consumer to B2B, the development of an inorganic growth muscle, and successfully navigating the challenges brought on by COVID as a location tech company. I was recognized by both Forbes' 30u30 and Vanity Fair for my achievements and additionally moonlighted as the company's first head of Analytics, their interim head of Marketing & interim co-head of Sales over my tenure. (Whatever's needed, right??). I've additionally held leadership roles in earlier stage environments. Most recently, driven by my passion for innovation and entrepreneurship (and for having my hands on absolutely everything), I decided to launch my own company—an early-stage startup in the talent tech arena. As the founder, I am responsible for all aspects of the business, from product development to go-to-market strategies and operations. It's been further accelerated learning in everything from cap table economics to brand building to development lifecycles. I'm open to many different types of sessions depending on stakeholder need: implementing new strategies & processes within an organization, developing one's own career & growth plan, M&A, partnerships strategies, and more. Excited to meet others in the community!

People Operations Strategist

Results-driven HR professional with nearly 10 years of experience in building and optimizing People Operations functions. Committed to fostering an inclusive and thriving workplace culture. Proven ability to wear multiple hats, drive process improvements, and contribute to organizational success. Firm believer that a well-established People Operations department enhances the potential of every individual within an organization.

Entrepreneurial Consultant & Creative Strategist

Hey, I'm Dillon! I am a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse background. Over the course of 25 years, I've honed my creativity, entrepreneurial prowess, and resilience, all enriched by the unique perspective of living with the daily realities of right hemiparesis resulting from a pre-birth stroke-like experience. I've refined my expertise in leadership and community development through radical vulnerability and the emphasis on personal ecology. This helps me lead myself, my teams, and my communities as we navigate the ever changing landscape of startups and small businesses. For me, it is critical to success that I prioritize the lifestyle I want to live then design a business model that allows me to achieve this goal. Doing this has helped me maintain a higher level of satisfaction personally and professionally. Book a session with me if: A) You're an entrepreneur or thinking of starting a for-profit or nonprofit organization & are seeking to understand how to prioritize your wellbeing to be an effective leader B) You're seeking improved experience for yourself and your teams C) You are interested in maintaining a healthy personal ecology and would like to discuss best practices. More About Me: I started performing as a musician at a young age and eventually turned that passion into a career that allowed me to perform in rooms of thousands for over a decade after earning a master's degree in entrepreneurship. I then spent 7 years in education nonprofits including 5 years as the literacy director of a nonprofit where I successfully designed an adult education pipeline and I was recognized for my dedication to the youth of a neighborhood elementary school. I launched a handcrafted hot sauce company in 2017 with my wife and we grew that company through 2020 with sales in all 50 states, a broad product line including single-batch exclusives, and merchandise for an enthusiastic community of customers numbering in the thousands. We decided to sunset that project to focus on family after the arrival of our first child in 2019. In 2022 I launched my consulting firm in order to facilitate entrepreneurial programs for a lending agency. In that role a helped minority business owners navigate the challenges of early stage ventures and small businesses. Currently, I work as the executive coach and assistant to the founder of a disability ministry and advocacy nonprofit by and for uniquely embodied individuals. Additionally, I work as a casting director for an investment firm that produces a reality tv style entrepreneurial bootcamp. In this role I speak with roughly 750 business owners annually. Finally, I am the creator and facilitator of the Sauntermore peer discussion group for leaders with disabilities. My primary hobby is endurance cycling. Since 2012 I've transformed by mind and body as I've pedaled around the US. I am a member of Leadership Tulsa's LT360 Class 64, Thrive 5, and Hispanic Leadership Institute Class 7. In January 2023 I became a certified practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic programming, Time Line Therapy, and Hypnotherapy. Looking forward to our potential session together!

Early Stage People Ops & Leadership Coaching

I am passionate about supporting and empowering others to do and be their best at work, and therefore have been consistently drawn to people-focused roles. I started my career at Deloitte in their Human Capital consulting practice where I configured and implemented large scale HR systems, as well as supported internal hiring, onboarding, and training initiatives. I then moved abroad to Shanghai where I led the people function at two startups, navigating early-stage scrappiness in a multi-cultural and bi-lingual environment. Now at Upfront Ventures, I partner with our early and growth stage founders on all things People Ops & HR to help them build a strong foundation for growth. Some key areas of focus are: compensation strategy, talent management, performance, offboarding, and compliance.  Through this experience, I’ve developed pattern recognition for the challenges teams face when scaling a business and now have a set of resources and frameworks to support them. Topics I often work with leaders on: * Challenges of being a first time founder * Management 101: feedback, motivation, and prioritization / delegation * Courageous conversations: managing conflict & change * Leveraging emotional intelligence at work * Working in a global team

Business Leadership & Life Transition Coach

My name is Becky and I am a professional with a unique expertise in maintaining business leadership through times of personal life transition. With a background in non-profit leadership, fundraising, and board development, I have honed my skills in navigating the complexities of relationships, setting and achieving goals, and finding life's purpose. Over 10 years ago, I embarked on a journey as a non-profit executive. It was a challenging time for me, as I was newly married, adjusting to life in a small town after coming from a bustling city, and experienced the heartbreak of a miscarriage. In the midst of these personal struggles, I found solace and strength in becoming the mentor and coach I wish I had had during that lonely period. What sets me apart is my ability to combine my professional experience with my knowledge of hypnotherapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). These powerful tools have allowed me to guide individuals through personal life transitions while maintaining their business leadership roles. I believe that true success lies in finding harmony between our personal and professional lives, and I am passionate about helping others achieve this balance. One of my greatest joys is organizing retreats in beautiful locations, particularly in Hawaii. These retreats provide a nurturing environment for individuals to reflect, recharge, and gain clarity on their life's purpose. Through workshops, coaching sessions, and immersive experiences, participants leave feeling empowered and ready to take on new challenges. I am particularly drawn to working with non-profit leaders and those in the arts and entertainment industry. I understand the unique pressures and demands that come with these roles, and I am dedicated to providing guidance and support to individuals who are contemplating or currently navigating a big life change. If you are someone who is facing a significant life transition while also serving in a business leadership role, I am here to help. Together, we can navigate the challenges, uncover your true potential, and create a path towards personal and professional fulfillment.

Home Lending Vice President, NMLS 482262

Graduated from University with a Finance degree, MJ has risen to the role of Vice President at a prominent bank's Home Lending department. Established in NYC since 2005, MJ leads teams dedicated to facilitating home loans for residential properties nationwide. MJ has successfully established strong relationships with real estate agents, builders, and industry partners. Additionally, he actively participates in community outreach programs and financial education seminars to promote financial literacy related to homeownership. His extensive experience enables him to provide expert guidance, aiding homebuyers in navigating the application process and understanding what initial loan documents are needed specific to their scenario. Beyond his professional achievements, MJ enjoys health and wellness hobbies, with over a decade of training in Mixed Martial Arts and is a certified YogaBody Breath Coach. Committed to empowering others, MJ is ready to support you in your journey to homeownership and personal well-being. Contact MJ to embark on your path with confidence. Feel free to check out MJ's LinkedIn profile for specifics!

Executive Leadership Coach

Amy Sanchez is an Executive Coach, Workshop Facilitator, Keynote Speaker and CEO of Swim Against the Current. She specializes in helping high potential leaders and teams up-level their leadership approach to improve happiness, impact and earning potential. In addition to the work Amy does with individuals and teams, she also leads group coaching for c-suite women who are members of Chief. (Chief's mission: to drive women forward into positions of power and keep them there). Amy holds a B.S. degree in Marketing and Psychology, an MBA degree from USC and a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) license, one of the highest coaching distinctions. She is an industry thought leader, and has worked with clients from companies such as Johnson & Johnson, Stanford, Apple, Google, Lucile Packard, Amgen, Pinterest, Pfizer, and many more (including medium and small companies). Amy has been featured in leading business publications including Fast Company, Glassdoor, Authority Magazine, Thrive Global, and The CEO Magazine.

Fractional Chief People Officer | HR & Talent Consultant

Dynamic and strategic Human Resources leader, consultant, and business partner. Experienced in working with organizations at all stages, including: scaling, startup, spinout, new ownership and leadership. An experienced advisor who has served as head of HR for national and global companies. Possesses a holistic view of HR and talent management. Thrives in aligning and developing HR, talent, and people initiatives that enable achievement of business goals, enhance and drive culture, and propel the organization. Expertise in creating HR function, systems, operations, and talent initiatives where they previously did not exist or were lacking. Results-oriented problem solver who enjoys quickly identifying root cause and providing tailored solutions. Passionate about growing teams, people, and companies for success. Rachel is a certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Society for Human Resources - Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), Certified Compensation Analyst (CCA), and a Predictive Index (PI) Analyst. She holds a B.A. in Women’s Studies from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, an HR certificate from University of Massachusetts, Boston, an HR certificate from Curry College, an advanced certificate in Strategic HR Management from Cornell, and a certificate in Change Management from Cornell. She is an AmeriCorps Alum and a graduate of Boston Yoga School’s 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training. In her free time, Rachel enjoys being outdoors (when it’s warm), stand up paddle boarding, yoga and is a certified yoga teacher.

HR Executive & DEI Specialist

I am an HR Executive with over 17 years of HR experience. My expertise is in DEI, Executive Coaching, and all things related to HR. I am certified through the National Society of Human Resource Management, and I have a BS in Human Services. I am also the Founder of CoachHER Life where I provide life coaching to women for both their personal and professional lives.

Startup Storyteller and Growth Consultant

Co-Founder @ Unicorner 🦄 Sharing startup stories with 20k+ readers

Nonprofit Sustainability Expert

I am a nonprofit strategist working in the nonprofit sector for over 10 years here to assist individuals with turning their nonprofits into profitable and sustainable nonprofits.

Trauma Recovery Coach

My life experience has enabled me to help people make decisions to help them in their own lives. What most people may never encounter, I have endured. I’ve walked through turmoil and emerged on the other side with grace and dignity. Don’t allow your past to dictate your future…. Let me be your guide to managing your past trauma, facing your fears and creating your future!

Career Coaching & Job Search Automation Expert

Hi, my name is Diane Gildea, the Founder of Maximum Wage (Maximum-wage.com) and I have 9+ years of experience in recruiting, employer relations, and career coaching. I've been featured on leading career-related platforms including Indeed, LinkedIn, and Jobscan. I love automating your job search to help you get more results sooner. Through our expert coaching sessions, you'll receive clarity on the best ways to highlight your expertise on your resume and LinkedIn profile. I'll also be able to teach how to contact employers using my expertise in contacting thousands of companies in the US for job seekers and land more interviews. Topics I love to coach about: - How to update and optimize your resume for job seeking - Getting your LinkedIn Profile ready so recruiters reach out to YOU - Simplifying your job search routine and how to reach out to employers - Recording Mock Interviews to uncover your strengths, red flags you want to avoid, and salary negotiation Please make sure to send me your LinkedIn profile or Resume before our session together. I look forward to working with you! Diane

Art Investment Advisor

Leveraging her business insights, Daria has also authored a book demystifying art investment for aspiring collectors. She provides clients guidance on thoughtfully incorporating fine art into their portfolios and homes. As an art investment specialist, Daria stays closely tuned to market trends and up-and-coming voices while drawing on connections made during her years as a gallery director. She finds joy in matching clients with pieces that speak to them while also holding cultural and financial value.

Mindset, Attitude& Time Management Coach

Professionally, I've embarked on a 20+ year journey as a Business Administration and Operations Partner, navigating diverse industries such as the military, health care, property management, and mortgages. Through this pursuit, I've gained and provided extensive support in mastering time management, crafting efficient process workflows, and fostering an atmosphere of ease, productivity, and growth even in the most challenging situations. My coaching journey began in 2018 when I recognized that my passion and talents extended beyond the confines of corporate roles. I completed IPEC's intensive 2-year Coaching Certification while simultaneously maintaining a full-time career in the mortgage industry. I have been officially coaching since November 2018, with full certification as a Certified Professional Coach in May 2020.

Certified Trauma informed Unstuck Master Coach

Are you stuck in a rut and can't seem to break free? I've been there . As a high achiever I navigated my way through several burnouts and complex trauma. I know what it's like to try , time and time again, to step towards your desired goal but having this persistent feeling of being stuck or frozen in place. I am a trauma informed Certified Master Life Coach, bringing over 1000 hours of experience guiding clients break free from their limitations and live a life aligned with their values. My expertise lies in helping individuals get unstuck, discover answers from within, fostering unwavering inner-trust, and boosting self-confidence. Through my coaching, clients have taken empowered steps, leading to enhanced overall well-being, more meaningful relationships, higher paid careers and successful businesses. Let me guide you on your journey to get unstuck and feel empowered from within. If you're ready for lasting change , let's connect and get started.