Maria Sophocles, MD, FACOG, NCMP is a board-certified OB/GYN with more than 25 years of medical experience. She is the Medical Director of Women’s Healthcare of Princeton, a progressive and innovative women’s health practice in Princeton, NJ.Dr. Sophocles understands the spectrum of issues women face from their teens through post-menopause. “Women of any age want a physician they can trust,” Dr. Sophocles says. “I spend time with my patients so they can share intimate issues and complex problems.”After graduating with an honors degree in English from Duke University, Dr. Sophocles earned her medical degree from Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. She completed her residency training at Johns Hopkins /Greater Baltimore Medical Center. She promoted early development of umbilical cord blood banks and researched non-invasive ways to detect abnormal fetal chromosomes. Today, Dr. Sophocles focuses on advancing non-invasive, non-hormonal gynecological procedures to treat vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and lichen sclerosus.Dr. Sophocles is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the North American Menopause Society, and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health. She is a fellow of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, is a certified menopausal specialist, and a fellow of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease.In early 2015, Dr. Sophocles was one of the first physicians to utilize laser for the treatment of vaginal dryness and lichen sclerosus. She teaches and trains physicians nationally and internationally and is a sought-after opinion leader on issues of menopause and female sexual dysfunction.She is married with four children and resides in Princeton.

Carol Galloway, M.A., is a visionary entrepreneur and a dedicated therapist with a strong background in counseling psychology. After completing her Master's in Counseling Psychology, she embarked on a mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health issues, particularly teenagers.As a licensed therapist, Carol specializes in working with teens, leveraging her deep understanding of adolescent psychology and behavior. Her empathetic and compassionate approach allows her to connect with her young clients, creating a safe and nurturing environment where they can openly explore their feelings and challenges.While her passion for mental health advocacy drives her work as a therapist, Carol's entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-found Envio Skin Health, where she aims to address not only external beauty but also the emotional well-being of individuals struggling with skincare issues. By combining her expertise in counseling psychology and her entrepreneurial vision, she seeks to inspire positive transformations in the lives of teens and individuals of all ages.Outside of her professional endeavors, Carol remains an engaged Vanderbilt University alumna, actively participating in alumni networks and contributing to mentorship programs for aspiring counseling psychologists. Through her dedication to both therapy and entrepreneurship, she continues to make a significant impact on the well-being of young minds and the broader community.

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Buffy co-founder Leo Wang is a second generation bedding maker. For 40 years his family has been weaving bedding for major retailers like from Ralph Lauren Home to Sleep Number. He became so attuned to the manufacturing process in his family’s bedding factory in northern China that he could tell the type of fabric being woven on the looms by the vibration from the machines. He was also keenly aware of the excessive amounts of power, water, fertilizer and pesticides needed to make cotton and down bedding – and of the waste produced. So after stints at The Clinton Foundation and consulting powerhouse McKinsey, Wang returned to his roots, resolved to come up with an earth-friendly manufacturing process. Buffy debuted with a comforter made with silky soft material spun from recycled plastic bottles, then developed a process to turn eucalyptus trees, which use 10 percent of the water needed for cotton plants, into super-soft, breathable fabric for sheets and comforter and pillow shells. Today, the Cloud Comforter is the top-rated comforter on the market with over 23,000+ reviews. 

David Schoenfeld, founder of Ring Bear, has significantly contributed to the field of sustainable jewelry production. His commitment to eco-responsibility is reflected in the unique, carbon-neutral range of men's wedding bands and gifts that Ring Bear offers, positioning the company in a specialized segment of the industry. Under Schoenfeld's leadership, Ring Bear has garnered recognition from reputable international publications including the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Brides.com, and The Knot. His comprehensive understanding of sustainable manufacturing processes has enabled him to shape Ring Bear into a brand that seamlessly blends environmental responsibility with quality craftsmanship.

Shivani Vyas is a residential interior designer who shares her knowledge of various design methods, like whole-room furnishing and décor, space planning, 3D renderings, 2D floor plans, and color consulting. Shivani is also an expert writer who covers interior design, decorating, and home improvement. She's written for Better Homes & Gardens, Gather, The Spruce, My Domaine, Domino, Martha Stewart, and Atlanta Magazine. She has 5+ years of industry experience. She was also listed as one of Fixr's Top 123 Interior Design Experts in 2023. Currently, Shivani is completing her residential interior design certification through the Rhode Island School of Design and works as a full-time designer in Macon, Georgia.

I am the founder and CEO of KMO Consulting, Affiliate PR training and Human Design corporate consulting agency to entrepreneurs, CEOs and teams.I believe we’re all unique and brilliant humans, designed to operate and experience life differently. I also believe behind every feeling is an energetic frequency that attracts or repels, and how we feel when doing our job matters and can directly affect performance and results. As a certified Human Design and energy reader, I use Human Design as a tool to show new entrepreneurs and CEOs their individual energetic blueprint and how-to use their distinct energetic strategies at work to achieve radical productivity and attract more with ease. In a time where employee burnout, retention and job satisfaction are more important than ever, I help companies optimize their teams’ individual energetic experience to increase productivity, operational and creative flow.I practice what I preach and KMO (my own business) and my own story was my first client where I fused human design and individual energetic strategies together to feel good, increase productivity and attract results.

From Charleston, SC to Jackson Hole, WY, to San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, Katherine Knowlton is the founder of Happy Chance, providing health-conscious consumers a better-for-you, better-for-the-planet line of chef-crafted edibles, founded on ingredient integrity and sustainability. Katherine has worked in the food industry for 15 years as a team builder, recipe designer, and culture creator. She is passionate about food as the key to optimal health and well-being. She is a career chef and sustainable food advocate, classically trained at San Francisco Cooking School. www.eathappychance.com www.katherineknowlton.com

American national with MA in Japanese Cultural studies, focusing on US client accountsI joined Ikkyu quite recently, but I have lived in Japan for the past decade. From dancing Yosakoi at festivals in Toyama to practicing Aikido at the dojo in Fukuoka, I am a passionate learner of all things Japan—including tea.Through research on Japanese tea families, tea ceremony, and experience with a global clientele in my previous work, I’m excited to blend the rich history of tea enjoyment with the everyday needs of modern matcha enthusiasts stateside.Additionally, I’m interested in tying together the strong tradition of Kyushu pottery, visible in Karatsu and Arita ware, with its equally splendid tea. To me, Kyushu tea is summed up as luxury with a lineage—a lineage that the Ikkyu team is devoted to preserving and sharing with the world

Michelle Simmons, a passionate advocate for natural living and holistic wellness, is the founder of Slow North, a beacon for sustainable wellness goods and aromatherapy candles that has grown into a seven-figure handmade business. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Business Management with a concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship from the University of Texas at San Antonio, Michelle's journey into entrepreneurship was sparked by the birth of her first son in 2015 and a desire to seek healthier alternatives for her home.With expertise spanning natural living, aromatherapy, using scents to enhance living spaces, navigating motherhood as an entreprenur, and small business growth, Michelle's voice resonates as a powerful guide for those seeking a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle. Her work has not gone unnoticed; Slow North was a two-time finalist for Best Austin Gift Shop and was prominently featured in a national commercial campaign by UPS, celebrating the unstoppable spirit of small business.Michelle's engaging presence has led her to be a sought-after guest on podcasts, local news segments, and even as an on-camera principal for a nationwide commercial. Her commitment to community shines through Slow North's continuous contributions to local nonprofits and limited edition give-back candles, reflecting a belief that business can be a source of good.With a mission that transcends profit, Michelle's vision for Slow North is one of education, providing natural alternatives, and shaping a future where sustainability and well-being are at the forefront. Her story, insights, and leadership make her a compelling contributor, poised to inspire audiences across various media platforms.

David Abramovici, the visionary founder behind Vicci Eyewear, has redefined prescription eyewear e-commerce for women. With a heritage steeped in craftsmanship spanning over a century, David's family instilled an unwavering commitment to quality.The Abramovici family's dedication to craftsmanship goes back at least four generations - more than 100 years. In the 1920s, Isaac Abramovici was a highly sought-after watchmaker in Romania. His son Arie Abramovici followed his father's path and started his own watch and jewelry boutique for over 40 years and became a master craftsman within the industry.Arie taught his children that quality should always be their top priority. His son Aaron Abramovici was a jewelry manufacturer in Canada and carried on the tradition of excellence. Aaron’s son David worked as an apprentice in his factory and retail store to continue the family legacy of exquisite craftsmanship. As a teenager in Canada, David loved fashion. In addition to apprenticing at his father's factory, David also had an interest in eyewear that was nurtured by a family friend who owned an optical boutique. With his eye for quality and his innate ability to check the pulse of what consumers want, David learned the business of eyewear.In 2010, David was sitting front row at Milan Fashion Week when the idea for VICCI Eyewear was born. He knew from his own experience that eyewear could be bold, elegant, and fun. After launching his first store in Florida, many of his retail customers began reaching for VICCI frames to fit their lifestyle. They preferred VICCI's high-quality craftsmanship and premium materials over household names, especially with the inclusion of free prescription lenses. Within four years, David opened seven retail locations in Florida.In 2021. David partnered with Steven Geduld to expand the Vicci brand globally. Steven’s background in finance and private equity helped relaunch Vicci’s online business and expand from Florida to the entire USA and Canada. Vicci Eyewear launched its new website with limited-edition collections, new advanced blue light technology, and free prescription lenses with optical frames. Vicci Eyewear also developed an easier to use website with a new 3D virtual try-on experience.

Michael Gardner founded LUXUS Design Build, a construction firm licensed for residential and commercial building in Nevada, in 2018. As the principal, Michael is responsible for the design and overall project success.   His professional background allows LUXUS Design Build to offer their clients a smooth, innovative and integrated approach to home building by providing all-in-one design-build services. From construction completion and architectural design conception to interior design concepts, LUXUS Design Build houses all facets of the home building process under one roof.   Michael has been working in the design-build and architecture industry for more than 20 years. His diverse design background and extensive travel has led to innovative, sustainable and unique designs solutions.  Prior to starting LUXUS Design Build, Michael founded the award-winning studio g ARCHITECTURE in 2010, which specializes in delivering excellence, integrity and innovation in its designs while remaining conscious of sustainability. As the firm’s principal and lead architect, Michael is responsible for the design and project management for both residential and commercial work.   Before 2010, Michael worked for one of Orange County’s largest residential architecture firms, where he directed projects from inception through construction. He earned his bachelor's degree in architecture from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.  In addition to his luxury design-build and architecture firms, Michael also founded Integro, a low-voltage firm that seamlessly integrates technology solutions in design-build projects. The firm collaborates closely with LUXUS Design Build and studio g ARCHITECTURE to deliver customized low-voltage solutions and cutting-edge technology that transform a home into modern intelligent spaces.  Michael’s residential work includes the National Association of Home Builders’ 2013 and 2016 The New American Home projects. He was the builder and architect of the 2019 The New American Remodel and of the 2023 The New American Home, which was built in Henderson, Nevada’s high-end community, Ascaya.   A native Australian who grew up in Southern California, Michael has been internationally recognized by the New South Wales Architects Registration Board in Australia and was entered into the Register of Architects of New South Wales. He is currently a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is certified through the National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB). As an advocate for the implementation and development of sustainable builds and design, he is also a member the U.S. Green Building Council with LEED AP credentials.  Michael is licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, Nevada, New York, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Washington in the U.S. and New South Wales in Australia.   

Growing up in Queensland, Australia, Peter Jackson didn’t have much familiarity with wine. The journey that ultimately led him to a career as a winemaker began in high school French class. With his interest piqued, he double majored in French and Law at university before taking a yearlong hiatus to travel through France on a bicycle. While cycling through France’s many wine regions, Peter was captivated by the history and culture, but especially by the elegant and diverse wines. So much so that soon after returning to Australia, he left his unfinished Law degree behind and moved to Adelaide to study Oenology at Adelaide University. Since then, Peter has had the privilege to craft wine in some of the world’s most renowned growing regions in Australia, France, Italy and the United States. Peter's initial encounter with Marlborough was the 2005 vintage, an experience that cemented his love for cooler climate wines. “I remember being in awe of the beauty and tranquility of the region almost immediately. I couldn't imagine finding a better place to grow and produce wine,” he says. Peter first joined the Whitehaven team in 2008, spending three years at the winery. He returned to Whitehaven as Chief Winemaker 2020, where he seeks to create beautifully balanced Sauvignon Blanc that showcases the Marlborough region with honesty and integrity. He believes his role is to cultivate the best grapes sourced from the best sites, capturing Marlborough’s renowned fruit intensity while respectfully conveying the subtleties of different vineyard sites. “We have a multi-dimensional approach to fruit selection and an absolute commitment to quality in the winery. This makes for a consistency to our wine style, always offering a vibrant and layered expression with broad appeal — quintessential Marlborough,” says Peter.Outside of wine, Peter is a keen jetty jumper in the Marlborough Sounds, plants many trees and enjoys baking a decent sourdough. He and his wife Nadine are busy raising three kiwi children, Eddie, Matilda and Heidi.

Patti Harrison, Founder + CEOPatti is the founder and sole full time employee of Marcher. After a 15+ year career creating performance apparel in the corporate world, Patti jumped into entrepreneurship and has never looked back. Patti has an extensive career in apparel product creation, marketing, and retail, working for large brands such as Nike and adidas. Her unique combination of experience plus her fiery passion for the business has enabled Marcher to remain self-funded to date. 

For Kirstie Fleur, Freedom is more than a right. Freedom is her purpose. It’s the driving force behind her company Freedom Fleur, a luxury sustainable clothing brand that makes no apology for ethically-made luxury clothing. Freedom Fleur shows women that while being powerful, they can also have luxury, rest, ease, and quality without apology. Kirstie’s ed-tech platform the FF Social Club TM was created to merge women’s personal and professional growth, innovation, and leadership in one place. As Founder + CEO, Kirstie is focused on Resourcing the Visionary Woman TM of all backgrounds and circumstances with the support and resources they need to realize their dreams—whether it be building a business of their own or getting started on their personal healing journey. A Veteran, Kirstie found herself struggling with direction upon her return home, which was further clouded by the lingering aftermath of sexual abuse she experienced in her youth. One night, she discovered a documentary about female survivors of assault that struck a chord and initiated a bigger shift. When she realized she couldn’t take others where she hadn’t gone herself, Kirstie decided to address the unspoken—and that’s when she discovered the true power of her voice and developed The Soul Health Approach TM Upon acknowledging her shadows, Kirstie’s calling came to light, releasing her from the limiting narrative she had been living by. This awakening started a new story for Kirstie, one that prioritized a healthier holistic lifestyle. Kirstiehassinceworkedtocultivateanewspaceofdiscoveryanddevelopment.Freedom Fleur’s Social Club provides a direct line to invaluable tools for any woman with a vision. Through this community of female founders and aspiring entrepreneurs, Kirstie is helping women gain clarity of vision and reconnect with their true purpose with her Soul Health Approach TM and it all leads to individual economic freedom. With her own childhood dream of becoming a fashion designer actualized through consistent hard work and vulnerability, Kirstie is an advocate for all women and the unique magic within them—and she believes they have an obligation to share it with the world. As a proud mother, wife, businesswoman, artist, speaker and activist, Kirstie knows balance is a conscious practice, but the joy and fulfillment from your passions should come with ease. The beauty behind Kirstie’s message? Freedom and success is something you can define and create for yourself. Though freedom itself can feel like a luxury, Kirstie knows it is the key to a life of sustainable joy, power, and pleasure—and therefore worth pursuing wholeheartedly. Kirstie is here to remind you of this truth and help illuminate a new path forward for you. Kirstie’s academic accreditation include a Bachelor of Science in Business Analysis and Management, an Associate of Science in Information Technology Management, and a Master’s Degree from Wheaton College in Leadership, with an emphasis on Intercultural Communication. 

My name is Lymarie Jimenez and I'm originally from Puerto Rico. I started my entrepreneurial journey when I became pregnant with my miracle IVF baby - Nokomis. I built a sustainable eco-friendly brand dedicated to her and to improving the environment one candle at a time. I'm a proud latina business owner and I'm active within my community. I am a Tory Burch Entrepreneur, a Fearless Fund Women of Color grant recipient and a Digital Undivided Cohort 2023 participant and grant winner.

Sentient Jewelry first began after Madison discovered the unmatched beauty of baroque pearls, exploring the jewelry market back in his hometown, Guangzhou, China. He then left his third design job at Coach, following working on the runway development team at Thom Browne.During his time in fashion design, including the four years he spent in school at Parsons School of Design, and Central Saint Martins, he always carved out time to study sculptures, 3D modeling and rendering. Eventually, it all made sense that Sentient Jewelry is the perfect unification to integrate Madison’s journey in fashion design, and his fascination with 3D modeling.Sentient Jewelry is the manifestation of Madison’s philosophy of life. He uses Sentient as a vehicle the same way sci-fi films use stories to shape young minds, to create a more thoughtful future, with more mindful beings.

Michelle Songy, CEO and Founder, Press HookMichelle Songy is a serial tech entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Press Hook, a media relations platform that connects brands, media, publicists and journalists. As a PR industry change maker, she was recently named on PRWeek’s Dashboard 25 list of the most influential people in communications technology, representing the enterprises that are shaping your tech stack. She has more than a decade of experience developing, managing and marketing businesses from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies.After relocating to London in 2014 for a finance management position with Coca-Cola, Michelle founded her first company, Cake Technologies. It became the United Kingdom’s largest mobile payment platform for restaurants and was sold to American Express just three years later, in 2017.In 2020, Michelle founded her second entrepreneurial endeavor and passion project, Press Hook, a tech-enabled media relations platform specializing in promoting brands, especially small businesses. The Press Hook platform offers the first two-sided marketplace that intelligently connects brands seeking publicity with journalists seeking content. With Press Hook, lifestyle and consumer brands can easily and affordably get the media coverage they deserve with unprecedented speed, volume and reach. Michelle is a graduate of the University of Georgia, in the Terry School of Business with a degree in Management Information Systems.