DRIVEN Testimonials

“Initially, I met Deborah Goldstein when she was working with our firm’s Women’s Business Resource Group— a group which was established to focus on the recruitment, development and advancement of women in the profession. While Deborah and the DRIVEN team’s program delivery in that regard was truly fantastic – relevant, agile, accessible and effective – it is in the individual coaching work I’ve done with Deborah since then that I believe her talents and passion to empower others shine even brighter. Deborah gleans what is needed during coaching sessions to leverage the variety of tools she has in her coach’s toolbox. From business development strategy and marketing plan development to intentional productivity habits to emotional and conversational intelligence skills, Deborah tailored and delivered her leadership coaching in a way that was both motivating and impactful – she never stopped thinking about ways she could help me and how she could avail her extensive network and resources for my benefit. I highly recommend Deborah to anyone who is looking to unlock their full potential, increase their level of self-awareness, and create goals focused on achieving personalized development objectives.”

COLLEEN DUFFY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, NONPROFIT & EDUCATION ADVISORY, BDO

Keep doing the great work you have been doing. We re-energize at the events you organize.

IVANA ESTRADA, VICE PRESIDENT, MORGAN STANLEY

DRIVEN is not your typical ‘suit and tie networking organization’ but rather one that creates experiences for its members and guests, which facilitate networking and learning in a natural environment via interactive, fun events! I am excited to be a part of an evolving organization.’

LENKA WILES, PARTNER, RSM

My first DRIVEN event was also my first “real” networking event. So of course I was extremely nervous and unsure of how the night would turn out. But as I heard the thoughts and experiences of others in the room, I realized that these men and women were so much like me! Their experiences and goals inspired me to trust my own instincts I often thought were possibly silly or would never be taken seriously. I was immersed in such an open and accepting environment, an excellent introduction to the world of networking! Best of all, it was refreshing to see everyone open up about insecurities and points of improvement while taking the help and support of equally understanding professionals. I feel blessed to have been given this opportunity so early in my career and these skills will follow me for life.

ADEETI KATTI, SENIOR, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

When it comes to the “art of food and wine”, no one paints a better canvas than Deborah Goldstein. Whether it is a corporate bonding event, a gathering of fellow businesswomen, or just a group of kindred spirits, Deb Goldstein produces workshops that educate, entertain, and satisfy body, mind and spirit in a most captivating manner. However, don’t take my word for it: sign up for her next wine and food event and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

ANNE AKERS, FOUNDER/EDITOR IN CHIEF GLOW BEAUTY, HEALTH & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Before attending the DRIVEN’s “Wine List Navigation: Earn your Wings” Event I had never ordered wine from a wine list at a restaurant. I always let others order for me because of the intimation factor that wine lists have. The wine event was full of information. We did not just learn about what types of foods match certain wines but we also learned how to dissect those hard to read wine lists. We learned about the different kinds of grapes wines contain as well as how to read wine labels. We even received a little cheat sheet booklet as a reference! Not only do I feel competent enough to order wine for a future dinner party, it was a night filled with amazing people, great food, and gorgeous wines.

CASSANDRA PALUMMO, WAC COMMUNITY MEMBER

You have done it again! Another amazing event, that was not only very helpful and informative but it gave me basic tools that I can use to continue to improve myself not only at work but in my everyday life.

YOLANDA MORGAN, DRIVEN CORPORATE MEMBER - AFTER DRIVEN'S 2-18-14 WORKSHO

DRIVEN provides a rare opportunity to meet other like-minded women (and men) from other walks of life. I feel like I’m a part of something that has great potential and I’ve already met so many people. I have access to great women (and men). I get personal and networking growth out of DRIVEN!

ROBYN BROOKS, DRIVEN PIONEER MEMBER

“…the magic of DRIVEN, however, is not only in its offering excellent interactive programs that foster the business side of the equation but in structuring equally compelling programming that targets and nurtures the oft neglected personal side. Acknowledging that more meaningful success can be achieved by fostering both aspects of this dichotomy is an important step of self-improvement in the business world and beyond.”

YOLANDA KANES , PARTNER, TANNENBAUM HELPERN SYRACUSE HIRSCHTRITT

“As a partner of Anchin and the chairperson of Anchin’s Women’s Initiative Network, I consider DRIVEN a tremendous resource for professional women. Not only can I meet and network with professional women, but the group is focused on helping women grow, learn and yes…. Advance!”

TERRY PISSI, PARTNER, ANCHIN, BLOCK & ANCHIN

Who knew strategic dining could be so fun? This hands-on workshop allowed me to brush up on some skills while also learning new ones. Since the workshop I’ve attended 3 business lunches and felt more confident thanks to Deborah’s helpful tips. Every business woman should be required to take this workshop! Bravo!

JENNY GREEN POWERS, FOUNDER, RUNNING WITH HEELS

My first baby step was to say “sorry” less and not to preface so many work emails with an apology.
So far so good…. lots of backspacing, but I’m pulling them out before I hit “send”

PARTICIPANT AT DRIVEN'S LAUNCH , WOMEN APOLOGIZE EVEN WHEN THERE'S NOTHING TO BE SORRY ABOUT.

On the way home, I got a text from my husband that he was angry at me (for something that truly was not my fault). Rather than get worked up on the car ride home and prepare for a fight, I changed the INTERNAL cue and looked under MY umbrella to discover why I was getting angry. (Felt attacked and wrongly judged). When I got home, I asked him why he was upset…LISTENED to his perspective without commenting…validated what he was feeling…then presented my thinking on the issue. We had a conversation instead of a fight!

DRIVEN ANGER IN THE WORKPLACE PARTICIPANT, WORK LESSONS APPLIED TO PERSONAL LIFE

One of the things that was discussed in our small group was women in roles of authority and how to handle men when they don’t seem to want to take us seriously. I have a guy working under me on an account this year and I have been trying to incorporate comedy as it was one of the recommendations that the man in our group as well as another woman suggested and it has been working!!

ELISE, NYC FINANCIAL SERVICES MANAGER

“Deborah has coached me for years through several phases of my career and personal development. We’ve worked primarily on leadership and productivity techniques. She’s been my coach, motivator, thought partner, mentor, and my teacher. I’ve evolved from feeling somewhat paralyzed with impostor syndrome to a leader with confidence in my ability to spearhead a team and reach beyond my comfort zone. My current job requires that I work in the “gray area”. Deborah continues to get me more comfortable with messy. Every time we work together, I leave with a new outlook and digestible next steps that keep me moving forward no matter how messy things feel. I can honestly say that I’m out of comfort zone at work, I’m kind-of nailing it, and I wouldn’t be here without Deborah.”

CARTER CLAWSON, SENIOR PROGRAM ASSOCIATE AT MANHATTAN STRATEGY GROUP

“DRIVEN has provided me with practical tools and actionable strategies to increase my productivity and better service my clients.”

LISA STONE, PRINCIPAL SENIOR INVESTMENT ADVISOR GROUP, BERNSTEIN GLOBAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Deborah Goldstein’s events are not your average networking event! They are intimate affairs with a delicate balance between meeting decision makers, learning valuable business tools and insights and relishing in the pleasure of good company and delicious wine! Frankly, you’ll feel guilty that networking can be this pleasurable.

DEBORAH ASSERAF, FOUNDER, POPCORN PRODUCTIONS

I attend DRIVEN events because they are consistently high quality. Deborah Goldstein creates and produces programs that have excellent presenters, sharing relevant content that can be immediately incorporated into one’s life. Networking at DRIVEN events is an extension of the program and seems to flow naturally which is a huge plus!

LISA ERNST, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SAVVY LADIES

I love to attend an event where I get a lot of value, and Deborah brought so much to the Wine List Navigation workshop: knowledge of wine, food and subtleties, details of how they can be shared and enjoyed and served. She touched on different experiences as they relate to choosing, ordering and how to communicate about wine. Deborah’s strength for this, I know, comes from several years of owning and operating a high end restaurant. She is someone who inspires and teaches simply by sharing her own rich learning experiences. She is a truly seasoned professional in the areas of food, beverage and business etiquette, as well as business and personal development.

NINA LOMEO, CUSTOM PLANNED INTERIORS & FINE FURNITURE

“I am a more patient and effective individual who is less reactive and more constructive as a result of the tools and Baby Steps I’ve taken in conjunction with DRIVEN Professionals’ energy management and personal development workshops.”

FEN YEE TEH, FOUNDER: COOK PLAY LIVE

In each DRIVEN event I’ve attended, I have come away reinvigorated to take on new challenges and enrich my life. Inspired by the conversations at the events, my baby steps have enabled me to disconnect and live a life that is more in the moment. I am also learning to focus on the love, support and positive energy around me rather than be driven by perceived expectations and self-determined shortcomings. The men and women I have met through DRIVEN have broadened my network and led to additional connections and introductions.

FEN YEE TEH, DRIVEN AMBASSADOR

The leaders and advisors of DRIVEN were so thoughtfully brought together by Deborah Goldstein. After meeting this core group, experiencing their depth and diversity, I knew I wanted to get involved with the DRIVEN. Deborah puts so much time and energy into creating all the events, not a single detail is overlooked. Every event is put together thoughtfully with member interests at heart. The quality of the people in attendance surprises me at every event, it seems like the room gets richer every time I go. I have left every event feeling more aware, positive, and motivated.

MEGAN HARNETT, BRIGADE CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

I attended my first DRIVEN event last fall, expecting a good networking event with other professional females. What I found was a room packed full with more than 75 dynamic women listening to a DRIVEN specialist speak about perspective, subsequent break-out sessions that offered invaluable professional and personal insight, and an intimate setting in which to network with other like-minded women. I could not have imagined that I would gain tools that night to help me “maximize my position” the very next day as I sat through my evaluation meeting and enjoyed an incredibly positive experience with a superior with whom I had previously been unable to connect. Now the only time I miss a DRIVEN event is when I’m stuck at the office too late!”

NICHOL CHIARELLA, CPA

The Energy Management event was fascinating to observe as a floater between two break out groups. When given loose instruction on identifying areas of one’s life that may be draining on them and utilizing the insight of those in the break out session to “reframe” the “problem”, I heard 2 distinctly different experiences from the groups. One group really highlighted personal issues that were causing members to feel defeated and frustrated – focused mostly on family dynamics or similar circumstances. The members generously helped in reframing the positive in the situation, but also helped to uncover the ways one could deal with family dynamics. I also overheard another group discussing very career and work focused-frustrations where members were sharing best practices on how one could be better at delegating or for sorting through emails and tasks more efficiently. Neither group touched on what the other was discussing for the duration of the break out session.

Interesting that the same instruction can lead to two very different sets of conversations! Despite being different in topic, both groups were able to use the reframing that was delineated by Kathleen Brady at the start of the evening, and succinctly and inspiringly wrapped up at the end of the break out groups.

Sponsors for Educational Opportunity

AYS NECIOGLU, DIRECTOR, COLLEGE SCHOLARS PROGRAM (LMSW) AND DRIVEN COMMUNITY MEMBER

“DRIVEN provides a forum for thought-provoking conversation and comprehensive workshop training covering a range of topics that help professionals create the careers they want.”

BARBARA CASULLI, SENIOR DIRECTOR, HEAD OF MARKETING, RSM

“I’ve built my career on the understanding and application of Emotional Intelligence. Every successful company today utilizes EQ as a differentiator. DRIVEN offers substantive and holistic training in Corporate Emotional Intelligence; a key to career success— especially in the 21st century.”

RICKY RAHAMAN, PARTNER, KPMG

I am honored to have met Deborah and formed a connection with her that goes well beyond a business associate. Deborah provides coaching in a very natural and authentic way just through having a conversation over a walk in the park, literally! Our time together never feels like a “coaching session” but as time catching up with a friend. Her ability to share her own experiences, insights, and way of thinking has brought me a new source of confidence and strength and growth in my own thinking, not just with my “day job” but as I approach life. Deborah is clearly invested in developing others such that they can be their best selves and continue to being better not just for oneself but also for others too.

LEENA PATEL, GRANT THORNTON

The DRIVEN program has given me skills that have been beneficial in different aspects of my work and even personal life. During the course of 4 months, I not only learnt the high level concepts, but I am also equipped with smart tactics to handle several real life situations. Among many other things, there are 2 things I really liked about the program. 1) Deborah’s exercise based approach as opposed to a traditional lecture approach. This made me learn by doing as opposed to learn by listening only. The former is much more effective. 2) The office hours sessions helped the team here learn from each other, in addition to learning from the coach. Deborah was very good at assessing the needs of trainees and designing the office hours in a way that was most beneficial to our organization.

DOLLY KAMALPREET, MORGAN STANLEY

Deborah is passionate about helping women build their career and connection. She is committed to helping others. She has been inspiring, asking good questions and that triggered my thinking, also has created a few “a-ha” moments for me. I recently attended Deborah’s “Real Talk Real Food” dinner. Her program was informative and offered a great network and real life scenarios. The conversation is always amazing.

SHA FANG, GRANT THORNTON

Question: What would you say to someone who was considering joining? “Do it! It would give you tools you could use whether male or female to move ahead. It will give you better management styles from other people’s perspective. You will become more aware of your surroundings; it will help you grow as person.”

SACHIN SAWHNEY, DRIVEN PIONEER MEMBER

This week was quite productive. I stayed away from social media in the mornings (as in right after I wake up). It’s amazing HOW MUCH I can acomplish by not grabbing my phone first thing in the morning. It sets the tone of the day. Instead of browsing on my phone while having breakfast, I take that time do plan my day and have a sense of what I need to get done.

Also, I am including “social media/text breaks” throughout the day. I already used Pomodoro to break up my time in work and rest cycles, but now I’m doing a work-social media/text-rest cycle. It’s been life-changing. I mean, really. It’s like night and day. When I’m on my social media/text break, I allow myself to catch up with my social life. When the timer goes off, I get on “rest” mode and completely get off the computer/phone and disconnect. It’s this 5-minute period that I can silence that interior chatter and ground myself. Now, all I have to do is keep this for 30 days to become a habit, lol. That’s the challenge!!!

PAULA MACHADO, CO-FOUNDER OF ARSEEN

As an entrepreneur, you never stop thinking about your business. Whether you’re at home, taking a vacation, or walking down the street for a cup of coffee you’re thinking about the work ahead. Attending the recent DRIVEN Advancement Strategy Symposium, I heard from and met with tremendous women working determinedly toward achieving their professional goals. DRIVEN’s symposiums challenge us to make small daily changes or “baby steps” to continually advance toward achieving our goals and living our passions.

DRIVEN’s event taught me to embrace my personal brand and let client experiences work for me. After the event, I’ve committed myself to letting my brand shine and being bold enough to ask: Ask for new business, ask for a referral, and even ask for help. Thank you DRIVEN for reminding me of the power of ASK!

ELIZABETH WADE, FOUNDER, PROSPECT PLACEMENT

The DRIVEN “Love Languages” book discussion was a fabulous event! Deborah chose a very important topic and Ginny was an excellent moderator. The discussion was lively, open and honest. I loved hearing everyone’s different insights and experiences, plus sharing my own. We all went to a deeper level than at a typical networking event. This was my first DRIVEN event and I was impressed with the friendly, insightful and professional people that it attracted. Thank you, Deborah! I look forward to attending more!

CHERYL LAZARUS, , RELATIONSHIP COACH, FOUNDER OF ZENGALOVE

“I came to the event to learn more about how to give feedback but wound up learning the most about how to receive feedback. It wasn’t something I had spent as much time thinking about but realized that I had been skipping the first step of the AIR model. That first step of describing the action is so important whether you’re giving or receiving feedback.”

BRIGITTE SHULL , HEAD OF HUMANITIES PUBLISHING AND SENIOR EDITOR PALGRAVE MACMILLAN

DRIVEN Professionals is one of the most dynamic and resourceful forums today for professional women seeking to navigate the shoals of family, health and corporate environments. Even the most successful women can benefit from the thought-provoking community events, progressive workshops and insight tools provided by DRIVEN’s offerings.

KELLY WELLES, WELLES FINANCIAL SERVICES

As a partner at Anchin and the chairperson of Anchin’s Women’s Initiative Network, I consider DRIVEN a tremendous resource for professional women. Not only to meet and network with professional women but the group is focused on helping women grow, learn and yes Advance!! We were honored to host a DRIVEN event and look forward to developing a relationship with DRIVEN.

TERRY PISSI, PARTNER ANCHIN, BLOCK AND ANCHIN

You are the Message: Communication: This was the first DRIVEN event I attended. Being a graduate student I felt that it would be a huge advantage to learn about non-verbal communication and presentation skills. I left this event knowing more about myself than anticipated. Through a few exercises I learned that I close my eyes when I am presenting. I also learned proper PowerPoint etiquette that I actually put into practice during a presentation two weeks later. Using the tools and information I learned, I have to say that I killed my presentation. I definitely will be able to use all of the knowledge from this event for the future.

CASSANDRA PALUMMO, DRIVEN COMMUNITY MEMBER

DRIVEN has been a wonderful experience not only in getting to know Deborah, but in networking and getting my first three clients for my new business. I have reconnected with old colleagues, which has been a tremendous experience. I find everyone I meet to be genuine, and inviting, which has been comforting as a new entrepreneur. I am thankful to be a member of DRIVEN.