Robbie Kellman Baxter

I'm building my second startup. Why? I had a panic attack at my first. I spent a few years and so much of my own money figuring out how to learn the skills to come down from high stress situations, clear my head, stay happy, and (as a result) make great decisions. It's a journey every busy human goes through. After building those skills (an ever evolving journey), I have built a world-class team to help me bring an everyday solution to busy women: smart Moodrings (Moodring Tech). I took the Founder Mental Health Pledge because I know, first hand, what needs to be done on the individual's level to care for themself. It's not affordable and it's time consuming. We have to test solutions for ourselves inch by inch and we have to build solutions to make it easier and, even, feasible to care for ourselves. Join me...

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A decade ago, I explored gratitude as the “world’s second most selfish act.” Today, I see it as a force reshaping how we work, live, and connect. From businesses embracing kindness year-round to launching platforms like ImpactSoul that turn gratitude into real-world impact, we’re proving that small acts of appreciation can drive big change. 🌎💫 Check out my latest post on how gratitude is evolving—and how it’s inspiring a better future for us all: https://lnkd.in/g_FG7bPp Let’s keep spreading gratitude, 365 days a year! ✨ #GratitudeInAction #Kindness365 #ImpactSoul

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I first met Mike Maples, Jr in 2010, when Founders Network was just an idea. Over the years, Mike and his team at Floodgate (special shoutout to Arjun Chopra) have been great mentors, sharing their insights and guiding our founders. Most recently, their advice played a pivotal role in helping us launch Founders Network Fund. Today, Mike shared the key ideas with FN'ers from his new book Pattern Breakers (https://a.co/d/buKBd5O ), which explores the insights he’s gained from backing companies like Twitter, Twitch, and Okta -- and which put him on the Forbes Midas List 8x. This is the most important book on startups in the last ten years, according to Steve Blank. My notes on the key concepts of his talk: 1) Inflections – "not a trend but a change event that represents a turning point in our ability to provide empowerment." e.g. The GPS chip in iPhone 4s 2) Insights – "a non-consensus and right insight about the future that's powerful and non obvious and leverages inflections." e.g. Lyft = GPS + strangers driving you 3) Founder future fit – "Living in the future before other people live in the future and then try to build what's missing in the future." If you're a founder, check out the book. Grateful for the impact Mike and Arjun continue to have on both me and the Founders Network community!

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Delighted to share this enlightening episode of 'Why Leadership Fails' with the insightful Surajit Chanda In this episode, we explore: ✅ The entrepreneurial spirit that drives success ✅ Essential team-building strategies ✅ Overcoming the inevitable hurdles in the startup journey Surajit's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and innovation in entrepreneurship. If you're looking to gain some practical tips and be inspired, this episode is a must-listen. Toyow HT Smartcast #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #TeamBuilding #Resilience #WhyLeadershipFails

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This week on TOP CMO, I sat down with Sri Batchu from The RealReal to discuss how a $2 billion luxury resale marketplace approaches marketing. We covered some fascinating ground—from building loyalty with repeat consigners to balancing creative and analytical strategies in a challenging economy. What’s unique about this episode is the practical takeaways for marketers. Whether it’s leveraging AI for authentication or experimenting across channels, there’s something here for anyone navigating complex market dynamics. If you’re interested in actionable insights and a fresh perspective on driving growth, this one’s worth a listen. 🎙️ #TOPCMO #MarketingStrategy #CustomerLoyalty #GrowthMindset #LuxuryResale

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Boldness isn’t just about having ideas; it’s about acting on them. As we move into 2025, let’s recognize that technology is currently one of the most powerful tools we have to create real, positive change. Women like Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, and Carol B. Tomé CEO of UPS, show us how leveraging tech can not only reshape industries but also empower the next generation to lead in spaces once considered out of reach. Technology has the unique ability to break down barriers, connect us globally, and transform industries. In education, digital learning platforms with AI-powered tutors or personalized learning apps are changing the way we teach and learn, making education more accessible to millions. In sustainability, IoT-driven solutions are helping businesses and cities reduce carbon footprints and manage resources more efficiently. When we’re bold enough to challenge the status quo, technology helps us build solutions that make the world more inclusive, innovative, and impactful. 2025 is the year to think bigger, act bolder, and use the power of technology to drive change. Let’s lead the way, break new ground, and create a future that works for everyone. #BoldIdeas #TechnologyForGood #WomenInTech #Leadership #TechInnovation #FearlessCreation #2025Vision #PositiveChange #Innovation

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 "Life in Motion" There is no set it and forget it. It’s a constant balancing act, shaped by our choices, challenges, and dreams. That’s what this new feature from UCLA Anderson Women "Life in Motion" is all about. We'll explore the insights and stories of some of the most accomplished women in our alumni community. Their reflections on everything from defining success to navigating leadership and life are inspiring. Listen to Satiya Witzer's perspective on "What is Success?" 👇 📌 Follow us at UCLA Anderson Women for more and to join the conversation. #LifeInMotion #AndersonWomen #Leadership #MBA #SuccessStories

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In an era where innovation outpaces regulation, how can entrepreneurs embed social responsibility into the DNA of their startups? 🌐💡 Recent conversations and insightful pieces, particularly one by Lyel Resner and Dr. Wilneida Negrón, have sparked a profound consideration in my thinking: the imperative for responsible innovation in tech ventures. They posit a tantalizing question - what if the tech giants of tomorrow were built on the foundations of public interest and social responsibility today? Diving into this thought experiment reveals more than just an ethical proposition; it opens up a paradigm where businesses can be both profitable and purposeful. Embedding social responsibility from the outset could guide ventures to prioritize long-term societal well-being over short-term gains. Imagine a future where companies are not just evaluated by their financial performance but also by their contribution to solving societal issues. The notion is ambitious but certainly not unattainable. This approach challenges us as entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to rethink our roles in shaping the future of technology. It's a call to action to pioneer a new wave of responsible businesses that are equipped to address, rather than exacerbate, global challenges. Let’s discuss: How can we as part of the startup ecosystem integrate these principles into our work from day zero? Your thoughts could light up paths not yet traveled. 🚀🌍

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✨ Elevating Consciousness, One Leader at a Time ✨ 🧠 Mental health investors, entrepreneurs, advisors, and advocates: As a proud board member of the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS), I’m deeply committed to educating current healers and future leaders to create more compassionate, inclusive, and impactful communities. I’m delighted to spotlight an inspiring interview with Kini Chang, LMFT, Chair of the Community Mental Health Program at CIIS. In this piece, Kini highlights the transformative potential of community mental health (CMH) and the vital role it plays in addressing mental health challenges in marginalized communities. Did you know? Community mental health services have been a cornerstone of equitable care since the Community Mental Health Act of 1963. From that shift away from institutionalization to today’s integrated approaches, CMH graduates are now stepping into leadership roles in community-based organizations, bridging gaps in care with empathy and expertise. Mental health is a critical frontier, with 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiencing mental illness annually. In a world grappling with rapid societal change, lingering pandemic effects, and a growing mental health crisis, leaders like Kini—and the students she mentors—are essential to shaping a better future. 🔗 Curious to learn more about how CIIS is preparing professionals to drive this change? Check out the full article featuring Kini’s insights—click the link in the comments below! 👏 Well done to S Brock Blomberg Chip B. Goldstein, EdD and the team. #MentalHealth #Leadership #CommunityWellness #CIIS #EducationForImpact #PsychologyMatters #ElevateConsciousness

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💡 Looking for insights on AI, education, and app marketing? It’s #FollowFriday, and I’m here with my #FourToFollow from this week. They are all shaping the future of their fields. 👩‍💻 Female Founder: As a trailblazing entrepreneur, Dipti Bhide is bridging the AI literacy gap for kids, paving the way for a more inclusive tech future with LittleLit - AI Life Skills. Her work is a must-follow for anyone interested in the intersection of education and technology. 🦾 AI Leader: Tara Thompson, is an enthusiastic AI leader. She works to drive AI literacy; often using fun analogies in her video tutorials to make complex concepts more accessible. Tara is an invaluable resource for professionals seeking to level up their AI skills. 🦾 AI Leader: Chad White explores the transformative potential of AI in design, providing practical tips and inspiration for creatives. His unique approach makes him a must-follow for those looking to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of digital art. 📱Mobile Expert: Steve P. Young hosts of the no. 1 app marketing YouTube channel App Masters where he shares his knowledge and interviews of industry leaders. Follow him for unparalleled insights into app growth, monetization, and marketing trends that will help you navigate the ever-evolving app ecosystem. I hope this week’s picks inspire you. 📣 I want to know who has been lighting up your feed this week. Share your must-follow accounts from this week in the comments!

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Thank you David Snyder for having me on the Agency Balance podcast. We dive into topics such as: 🤖 Meaningful AI – Understanding how AI can be leveraged responsibly to improve lives and create a positive impact. Addressing challenges such as the rise of deepfakes and their influence in the chaotic landscape of today's elections. 🐾 AI in Pet Care – Discover the innovations in the pet care industry and how AI is transforming the way we care for our furry friends at MyPetGo. 💼 Entrepreneurship – I share my personal journey as a CEO, along with valuable insights into building a business from the ground up. 💡 Lessons Learned – Reflecting on the challenges, triumphs, and key takeaways from navigating the worlds of tech, innovation, and leadership. Whether you're passionate about tech, an entrepreneur at heart, or simply curious about the evolving role of AI in everyday life, this episode is for you! 🔗 Tune in now and let us know your thoughts in the comments! #AI #Entrepreneurship #PetCare #TechInnovation #Leadership #LessonsLearned #Podcast

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Organizations thrive when HRBPs are empowered to guide and influence leadership—but too often, their expertise is overlooked. I’m thrilled to join CPOs Melanie Naranjo (Ethena) and David Hanrahan (Flare) on Wednesday, December 4th at 3pm ET / 12pm PT for a practical, interactive session on reshaping the HRBP-leadership dynamic. RSVP: https://lnkd.in/eEw3gNc7   We’ll dive into: 👉 Why HRBPs struggle to be heard—and how to fix it. 👉 The critical shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive partnerships. 👉 Actionable strategies to make your voice count in the room.

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I just wrapped up a panel with the Marketing Leadership affinity group within the How Women Invest community with my hero Auntie Nancy Hayes, aka the Yoda of board membership, angel investing, and general badassery. We talked about different ways to serve on boards, a role in which experienced Marketers seem to be often underrepresented. Why? If I had to guess, I'd say: 1 - Most heads of marketing are women 2 - marketing is undervalued, especially under sales/revenue experience 3—Compound the first two with the messages you tell yourself about your own worthiness, and suddenly, you're a great marketer for everyone else but yourself. ___________ For those who are interested in getting closer or into the board room, there are so many ways to start/get experience: 1—Board Observer (one of my current board roles)—you represent the investor but have no votes. It is unpaid, but/and hugely essential to act as a bridge of visibility and communication between the fund you've invested with and the company in which the fund has invested. My role brings value to both sides with much less bias than the other VC board seats. 2—Corporate board director—There is much governance but not much influence on the product, as the company usually has big enough teams for that. There is a lot of hiring/firing CEOs (read: drama), which can still be fun, especially for those fresh-popcorn-in-my-bag swag kinda folks (both grossly generalizing and way understating this role's fiduciary importance, but you get the idea). 3—Independent board director—this is another of my favorite places to sit. It is much like the Board observer role but with voting rights and equity (although not always, as these terms are negotiated and influenced by the shareholding board seats). You are NOT representing a VC fund (typically), but you might have subject matter expertise in the product or are a generalist boss gal like myself and bring a sense of neutrality and balance to the board. 4—Advisor. Advisors are similar to IBD in terms of influence and type of advice but are not part of the board or its meetings. This role is usually paid in some combination of equity and cash. It's another of my faves. (Are you seeing the trend here?) We have not even touched non-profit boards (where I got my start and am currently sitting on my sixth), but we will save it for next time as it's a whole 'nother Oprah. If you want to learn more, How Women Lead is hosting its 5th annual #getonboard week, starting October 21. Hybrid virtual and in-person. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/diizwv8j #womeninleadership #boardofdirectors #howwomenlead #governance #boarddiversity #corporategovernance #boardservice #businessleadership #leadership Julie Candelon Susan Greenwood Schroeder Mikayla Ludwig

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In his latest piece, Paul Graham dives into a thought-provoking realization sparked by Brian Chesky's memorable talk at a recent YC event: **what if the conventional wisdom on scaling companies is fundamentally flawed for founders?** Graham dissects why advice that works for professional managers often fails founders, leading to disastrous results. He introduces the concept of "Founder Mode" — a distinct approach to running a company that clashes with traditional management practices. Graham argues that embracing this mode could be the key to unlocking greater success for startups, potentially revolutionizing how founders scale their companies. Made me think. https://lnkd.in/exHmEE5M

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Here’s a look inside my latest Innovators @ Visa session with Ron Adner, a leading authority on innovation and strategy.      We had such a compelling conversation. His point about shifting from an “ego-system” to an “ecosystem” mindset really resonated with me — clinging to old paradigms can blind us to emerging opportunities.       Dr. Adner also emphasized the importance of adaptability and understanding how to navigate the evolving boundaries of our ecosystems, and shifts into new ecosystems — or how to “play the right game.” Not only do we have to know what opportunities to go after, we have to strategize correctly for how to go after them.       Many technological and behavioral shifts are gradual, so we must remain vigilant to avoid becoming complacent. Businesses and individuals who have the courage to pivot are the ones who will succeed.       For Visa, there is a critical balance between leading and playing a supportive role to our clients and partners, across the ecosystems we operate in. It was encouraging to hear this alignment in philosophies as I believe collaboration is a driving force for success.       Thank you, Dr. Adner, for a fantastic discussion. To those who attended, I’d love to know your biggest takeaway. What’s one way you’ve adapted your work lately?      #InnovatorsAtVisa #LifeAtVisa

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✨ Quieting the Inner Critic: Unlocking Compassion for Deeper Connection ✨ 🗓 October 24, 2024 📍 Seattle, Washington Are you ready to silence your inner critic and unlock a more compassionate, confident you? Join us for this transformative talk where we’ll explore how self-judgment not only affects your personal relationships but also hinders success in business. Learn practical strategies to overcome self-doubt, foster self-compassion, and strengthen your connections both personally and professionally. 💡 What You'll Learn: 🔘Identify the root cause of self-judgment 🔘 Understand its impact on connection and intimacy 🔘 Practical techniques to quiet your inner critic 🔘 Cultivate joy, creativity, and fulfillment in life and work Don't miss this opportunity to shift your mindset and thrive in every area of your life! 🙌 🔗 https://zurl.co/SUqw #SelfCompassion #PersonalGrowth #InnerCritic #QuietTheMind #SeattleEvents #CoworkingSpace #westseattle #westseattlelife

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Episode 341 of The VentureFizz Podcast features Somak Chattopadhyay, Managing Partner at Armory Square Ventures. Yes, markets like the Bay Area, NYC, and Boston get a lot of attention when it comes to building startups and having the ability to raise capital, but there are lots of other places to build a successful company. This has always been the case, but the pandemic definitely pushed this reality further.  This is why a firm like Amory Square Ventures exists. There are lots of secondary markets where entrepreneurs need access to capital and it is also a very important matter for the local economy for these companies to grow and create jobs, versus relocating. Somak shares the details of what led him down the path to start Armory Square Ventures, a seed and early stage venture fund, and why their approach of investing in seconday markets has not only been a differentiator for their firm but what they also consider as an optimism engine and a community catalyst for regions outside Silicon Valley. In this episode of our podcast, we cover: * Advice on how founders can push back on advice from investors. * Somak’s background story and his early career in startups. * How he landed in venture capital at Edison Ventures and Tribeca Venture Partners. * The details on what they are targeting for investments and portfolio company examples like Machinery Partner and ACV Auctions, a Buffalo company that went public. * Somak’s anti-portfolio, companies that he reviewed and an investment didn’t work out and went on to be a successful company. * Advice on building a marketplace. * And so much more. #venturecapital #startups #marketplaces

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