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7 Minutes Read

From Stroller Walks to Success: Karsson Hevia's Heart-Driven Path to Content That Connects

Beyond the Algorithm: Discover the Heart-Driven Path to Business Storytelling Success

Ever wonder how a simple stroll with a stroller in tow could spark a thriving business? Forget the hustle-and-grind narrative for a moment, and step into the inspiring journey of Karsson Hevia, the founder of HeviaMedia and 2manyopentabs.com. Her story isn't about aggressive tactics or overnight success; it's a testament to the quiet power of genuine connection and spotting a real need right in your own community. As Karsson herself put it, her business started from "quite literal, just grassroots. We lived in Larkspur at the time, and I would be strolling my little one in the stroller while taking the time to genuinely talk to the diverse business owners along the stretch of stores that made up the downtown. It afforded me the opportunity to get a pulse on who the businesses were and what their unique voice was." Get ready to discover how Karsson built a successful content writing business by listening, connecting, and staying true to the human element in marketing.



From Office Walls to Walking the Walk: Karsson's Untraditional Entrepreneurial Journey

Karsson's path to entrepreneurship wasn't a straight line. With a background in journalism, she initially found herself in the world of office management and marketing, where she honed crucial skills in marketing, advertising, and email campaigns. This early exposure laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors. However, a significant life event became the unexpected catalyst for change. "I was working in a typical office, doing the 9 to 5, was pregnant with our first child, and thought, you know, I just feel like I could do the same type of work, but in a more fulfilling capacity from home, while caring for my child." This desire for independence and the flexibility of working for herself propelled her into the entrepreneurial realm.

What's truly captivating is how Karsson's business took root. It wasn't through elaborate online campaigns or networking events, but through the simple act of being present in her community. Karsson actively listened and identified a common pain point among local businesses, further highlighting the power of local engagement and observation for identifying business opportunities.

The First "Yes" and the Power of Word-of-Mouth: Building Trust, One Conversation at a Time

Securing that first client is a pivotal moment for any entrepreneur. For Karsson, it was as organic as her initial outreach. When asked how she got her first client, her answer was wonderfully straightforward: “I just happened to be speaking with a new owner of a business on the precipice of opening, and asked him how he planned to secure new clients and who was helping him with his marketing efforts. Right then and there we formulated a loose plan to help him drive new business, and my first informal contract was essentially signed. That "yes" came from a local ice cream shop owner, a connection forged through her regular presence in the community. "He knew me from my regular daily walks within the community, which added a bit of comfort in the familiarity.” This simple, direct approach, coupled with a genuine offer to help, led to her first proposal and a resounding "yes." Don't underestimate the power of direct, personal engagement within your local community.

What's even more remarkable is how Karsson's business has grown since that initial connection. "Every client thereafter was just a function of word of mouth. I’ve been lucky, in a sense, that the need to advertise has never arised. It's just been through organic growth from current and previous clients, that my business has been able to grow to what it is today." This speaks volumes about the quality of her work and the strong relationships she builds with her clients. This also illustrates the long-term impact of delivering excellent service and fostering positive client relationships, leading to organic growth.

Navigating the Noise: The Human Voice in the Age of AI and Short Attention Spans

Like many in the creative field, Karsson has faced the question of whether or not artificial intelligence has impacted her business. "This looming AI, right… I’ve been asked this question many times, particularly lately. Am I concerned about AI taking my job, and encroaching on potential business? Unequivocally no, I'm not concerned." However, she acknowledges the challenge that lies in the perception of AI's capabilities. "AI simply cannot replicate what a writer does, but I think that there is this false sense that they can, and that's the challenge. I am not concerned that a computer program can write the same way a writer can because it's devoid of heart and spirit. Sure, it can put words on a page, but it can’t write from true, lived experiences, or from a place of honest understanding." I think you must first understand the difference between AI's capabilities and the irreplaceable value of human creativity and emotional intelligence in content creation.

Another significant challenge Karsson addresses is the evolving media landscape and shrinking attention spans. "I think people really want content that they can consume right away, and not dedicate any more time to it than they have to." This has required her to adapt her writing style. "You have to be really concise, and purposeful with how and what you say." She also notes the shift in how information is consumed, emphasizing the need to "use more bulleted points" and get creative with formatting. You have to adapt your writing style for online consumption by being concise, using visual breaks, and highlighting key information.



The Art of Voice: Understanding the Heartbeat of Each Business

Karsson's true strength lies in her ability to become a chameleon of language, authentically capturing the essence of each unique business she works with. When asked about her process, she explains, "For me, I think one of my strongest suits as a writer is being able to assimilate the true, authentic voice of the brand, simply by connecting with them and determining their true essence. This then guides my writing style for that client." She emphasizes the importance of deep understanding. "It's just really about getting to know the client, listening to what drives their business and gaining an authentic understanding of their passions and long and short-term goals."

She illustrates this with vivid examples: "One of my clients, for instance, is a luxury, bespoke pajama and lifestyle brand; the prints are dynamic and bold, ethereal and fun. The language used then, mirrors the flowery nature of the product. Conversely, another brand I work with is a highly-respected preschool with five locations spread out throughout the Bay Area. That language tends to be more pragmatic, with an emphasis on the consumption of important information pertaining to child learning and development." Learn the importance of clearly defining your brand voice and finding a content creator who can authentically represent it.

Client-Led Solutions and Strategic Tool Usage: Focusing on What Truly Matters

Karsson's approach to content creation is highly client-centric. "Being a content writer across all different mediums, it really starts with the client's needs, and branches out from there.” She emphasizes that the starting point is understanding the client's specific goals. "Sometimes during an initial client meeting, they’ll say, you know, I don't really know what I need, and so it's about guiding them through the intricacies of their business and formulating a plan that makes sense for them. Maybe it’s a press release, or a revamp of their marketing collateral. Perhaps they need to rebrand and change up their website.” Focus on creating marketing materials that directly address your specific business goals and target audience.

While Karsson remains steadfast in her human-powered writing approach, she strategically utilizes technology to enhance efficiency in other areas. "For [ad creation, ad development, ad placement], I use Canva. It’s such a great platform for not only content creation, but for collaboration... I also make use of Dropbox with nearly every single client. It’s a wonderful tool for the quick, efficient exchange of information." Identify and leverage user-friendly tools that streamline your workflow and improve collaboration.

The Unique Difference: Authenticity in Every Word

What truly sets Karsson apart is her unwavering commitment to authentic communication and the human element in a digital world. Her unique selling points aren't about flashy trends or aggressive sales tactics; they're rooted in genuine connection and a deep understanding of her clients. Her journey, built on face-to-face interactions and word-of-mouth, underscores the power of real relationships. In a landscape often dominated by automation, Karsson champions the irreplaceable value of the human voice, crafting personalized content that truly resonates with target audiences. Her versatility and client-centric approach further solidify her as a valuable partner for businesses seeking authentic and effective marketing solutions. Partnering with someone who prioritizes authentic communication can lead to stronger brand connections and more meaningful engagement with your audience.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Listen, Connect, and Trust Your Unique Value

For those dreaming of starting their own ventures, Karsson offers valuable, grounded advice gleaned from her own experience. Her journey highlights the importance of looking for needs within your own community and prioritizing genuine connection over pushy sales tactics. She emphasizes trusting your unique skills and the value you bring to the table, even in the face of technological shifts. Karsson's story is a testament to the power of organic growth through strong client relationships and delivering exceptional service. Karsson's success demonstrates that you don't need a massive marketing budget to build a thriving business; genuine connection and a strong work ethic can be incredibly powerful.



The Enduring Power of Human Connection: Your Story Matters

Karsson Hevia's story is more than just a business journey; it's an inspiring reminder that in an increasingly digital world, the human touch remains paramount. Her path, paved with genuine conversations and a deep commitment to understanding her clients, offers a refreshing perspective on building a successful and fulfilling business. It's a powerful testament to the fact that authenticity, empathy, and a genuine passion for your craft can lead to remarkable outcomes. So, take a page from Karsson's book: listen deeply, connect authentically, and never underestimate the power of your own unique human voice in telling your business story. You can connect with karsson at www.HeviaMedia.com (Her new website, coming soon!)




Bay Area Business Spotlight

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06.04.2025

Kona Ice Entrepreneur: From Classroom to Sweet Success with Derry Gutierrez

The Unexpected Sweet Spot: From Classroom to Kona Ice EntrepreneurEver imagined a career change as vibrant and refreshing as a rainbow shaved ice on a scorching summer day? For Derry Gutierrez, that wasn't just a fantasy. This isn't your typical business story; it's about a passionate educator who traded lesson plans and report cards for the delightful chaos of flavor stations and beaming smiles. Derry, the owner of Kona Ice of San Rafael, didn't follow a traditional entrepreneurial path. His journey from the structured world of early childhood education to the mobile world of frozen treats is a testament to how unexpected backgrounds can bring a unique and human touch to the business landscape. How did a deep understanding of children's joy and community needs blossom into a thriving Kona Ice franchise right here in Novato and the wider Marin County area? Get ready to discover a story where passion for people flavors every scoop.A Journey Rooted in Community: Derry's Backstory and Entrepreneurial SparkDerry’s story isn't just about starting a business; it's about building upon a lifelong connection to community. Moving from Peru to the vibrant landscape of Marin County at a young age, Derry’s early experiences instilled in him a deep appreciation for the power of local bonds. He reflects on his stepfather’s t-shirt business in the Bay Area, sharing, “I grew up watching my stepdad run his t-shirt business in San Francisco, and as I got older, I started helping out. I never saw myself as a ‘salesman’—to me, it was just about connecting with people.” This early exposure planted the seed for his entrepreneurial spirit. However, Derry’s path took a meaningful turn into education, where he has spent the past 15 years working with children—most notably in Marin City. “I struggled as a young kid and adolescent in school and lacked trusting relationships with educators,” he shares. “So I wanted to make a meaningful impact on youth by creating those relationships rooted in trust, kindness, and support. Sometimes, kids just need an adult to listen to them.” His words reflect a deep commitment to nurturing and empowering young lives. It was also important to him to be a positive role model for boys, especially in environments where men are not typically present—like classrooms and preschools. He wanted to represent Latino men in the community with pride and purpose, showing that men in early childhood education can be kind, attuned to children’s needs, and joyfully engaged. This dedication to community never wavered. Even after relocating to Novato and taking a position at the College of Marin’s preschool, his drive to create something of his own—something rooted in his values—remained as strong as ever. The "Aha!" Moment and Taking the PlungeThe idea for Kona Ice wasn't a sudden lightning bolt but rather a gradual realization, sparked by a familiar family treat. Derry recalls, “We used to see Kona Ice at events all the time, and our kids were always excited to get shaved ice. We ended up collecting all the color-changing cups—they became a fun, joyful presence in our home.” The idea of owning a Kona Ice franchise lingered in the background, a potential blend of his business aspirations and his love for bringing smiles to faces. Like many aspiring entrepreneurs, Derry had some initial hesitation about the financial investment. But it was the unwavering support of his wife, Dori, that became the turning point. “My wife was very supportive and said, ‘If this is what you want to do, then let’s go for it,’” Derry recalls. Her encouragement played a crucial role in helping him take that leap of faith into small business ownership in Marin County.More Than Just Shaved Ice: Key Turning Points and Innovative PracticesDerry’s transition from the classroom to the Kona Ice truck wasn't a complete departure but rather an evolution, leveraging his existing skills in unexpected ways. His strong ties to the local school community in Marin County quickly became a valuable asset. “When schools find out I’m a teacher—or that I’ve taught—they’re like, ‘Oh wow, where?’” he says, highlighting the instant rapport and trust his background creates. He also frequently runs into former students at events and loves hearing familiar shouts of “Hey! Teacher Derry!” or “Hey! Coach Derry!”—small moments that reflect the lasting connections he’s built over the years. Derry quickly realized that his business was about more than just serving shaved ice—it was about creating positive experiences and giving back to the community. His innovative “give back” model, which offers schools a percentage of sales or a discount, has become a cornerstone of his success. “Kona Days at schools have been especially successful in helping raise funds,” he explains. “We set up a day or two each month to serve Kona Ice on campus and provide give-back checks along the way. This year, we raised just over $1,000 for San Jose Middle School in Novato through these Kona Days!” His approach highlights the win-win partnerships he’s built with local schools, blending community engagement with small business impact. The Secret Ingredients: Unique Selling Points and DifferentiatorsWhat makes Kona Ice of San Rafael a local favorite isn’t just the wide variety of delicious flavors—it’s the personal touch and genuine care that Derry brings to every interaction. For him, it’s about creating an experience, not just a transaction. “To me, that’s what it’s all about—the experience and the connections you make with people” he shares. His commitment to connecting on a personal level—even if it means the line moves a little slower—deeply resonates with the community. “I can honestly say that with each customer I meet, I’m making a connection with them,” Derry affirms. That empathy shows up in small but meaningful ways, like offering a free replacement when a child accidentally drops their cup. Beyond customer interactions, Derry’s commitment to building long-term relationships with local organizations, like Dominican University, sets his business apart. Interestingly, the business has also brought an unexpected personal reward: the gift of time. “One of the many things the business has given me is time—time to take my kids to school, volunteer in their classrooms, and coach their teams,” Derry reflects, grateful for the flexibility it offers to be present in his children’s lives. This powerful blend of community focus, meaningful connections, and strong family values is what makes Kona Ice of San Rafael not just a business, but a beloved part of the local community.Scoops of Wisdom: Actionable Insights for Aspiring EntrepreneursFor those dreaming of starting their own ventures, Derry offers valuable insights gleaned from his own journey. One key takeaway is the importance of leveraging your existing skills and passions in unexpected ways. His background in education, initially seemingly unrelated to food service, became a powerful tool for connection and community building. He emphasizes the power of genuine community engagement, advising aspiring entrepreneurs to look beyond just sales and focus on building meaningful relationships. Derry’s experience highlights that a business can be a vehicle for positive impact, not just financial gain. His "give back" model with schools demonstrates how aligning your business with community needs can lead to both success and fulfillment. Ultimately, Derry’s story underscores the importance of embracing unexpected opportunities and infusing your business with your unique personality and values to create something truly special in your local market. A Recipe for Success: Concluding ThoughtsDerry’s journey with Kona Ice of San Rafael is a vibrant example of how passion, community spirit, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected can lead to a fulfilling and impactful entrepreneurial path. His story reminds us that success isn't always about following a traditional blueprint; sometimes, the most rewarding ventures are those that blend our unique backgrounds with a genuine desire to connect with and serve our communities, whether it's the neighborhoods of Novato, the schools of Marin County, or beyond. So, the next time you see the colorful Kona Ice truck, remember Derry's story – a reminder that business can be both sweet and meaningful, one cup of shaved ice and one community connection at a time. Want to know where they’ll be next? Follow Derry and Dori on Instagram at @konaice_sanrafael to catch their next serving location.

06.04.2025

Unlocking Order and Peace: The Journey of Organization by Christy

The Unexpected Spark: TransformerEver feel like your home is less a sanctuary and more a swirling vortex of stuff? You're not alone. Imagine the sigh of relief when someone steps into that chaos, not with judgment, but with a knack for transforming it into calm. That's the magic Christy Barbero brings through Organization by Christy. Her journey into the world of professional organizing wasn't a meticulously planned career move; it blossomed organically from a natural talent honed in the heart of family life. As Christy herself put it, "I've always been tight, orderly, running my house in an orderly fashion, so everybody knew where things went." This inherent ability, initially a personal strength, unexpectedly paved the way for her entrepreneurial adventure.The Genesis of Order: Christy's Backstory and Entrepreneurial JourneyChristy's foundation in home organization was built brick by organized brick within her own family. As a single mother of three, efficiency wasn't a luxury—it was a necessity. "When I got divorced, my life completely changed, raising three kids," she shared. This experience instilled in her a deep understanding of how a well-ordered environment can bring much-needed stability. Her entry into professional organizing was surprisingly serendipitous. While working other jobs Christy instinctively applied her organizational prowess. The word was getting out and she slowly was implementing her skill into other family homes.This organically fueled an unexpected side hustle. However, significant life events in 2020 became the catalyst for Christy to embrace her passion fully. "I really love organizing, and wanted to take this to the next level so I could have flexibility”. This pivotal moment marked her transition into a full-time female entrepreneur, driven by both passion and the need for flexibility. Since then, Organization by Christy has evolved beyond basic decluttering services. Christy now offers comprehensive support, including "clean outs on homes," preparing properties "to go onto the market" with an understanding of "how staging works" and what "realtors want," and helping clients "pack, unpack and set up their homes." This holistic approach caters to a wide range of needs, making her a valuable resource for anyone undergoing a significant life transition.Navigating Life's Transitions: Key Turning Points and Challenges OvercomeChristy's journey as a single parent provided her with firsthand experience in the power of effective home organization to manage a busy life. This personal understanding allows her to approach her clients with empathy and practical solutions. A health crisis her family faced in 2020 was a major turning point, pushing her to take the leap into full-time entrepreneurship. This demonstrates her resilience and determination to build a business that aligns with her values and needs. One of the most significant challenges Christy faces isn't the clutter itself, but the emotional weight it carries for her clients. "My challenges really are, it's just the emotional side, and I learned I need to embrace all the emotions so I can focus on supporting my clients," she shared. “ I personally know how it feels to have to detach from certain things”. This honesty highlights the sensitive nature of decluttering services, where helping people let go of belongings often involves navigating cherished memories and difficult emotions. She focuses on the core strength of her service: the personal connection and tangible results she delivers. This pragmatic approach resonates with clients who value hands-on help and a human touch. Despite broader "challenges of the economy," Christy's essential services continue to be in demand, proving the timeless need for order and support during life's transitions. The Art and Science of Organization: Major Lessons and Innovative Practices For Christy, home organization isn't just about tidying; it's about creating systems that bring lasting functionality. She emphasizes, "it's designing a space that's functional for anyone living in the home." Her ability to visualize solutions is a key differentiator. "I love walking into spaces and breaking down the spaces and listening to my client on how spaces feel for them. I play Tetris in my head and break it down for the client." This "Tetris brain" allows her to see possibilities and create order where others see only chaos. A crucial lesson Christy has learned is the importance of habit formation. Repeat clients are an important part of her business. . "We are all creatures of habit., Change is hard. But with time, we adjust and realize a weight has been lifted. I explain why I put things where they need to be." This insight underscores that true decluttering and organization are about creating sustainable change, not just a temporary fix. Christy's approach is also highly client-centric and resourceful. She's mindful of budgets and always looking to find creative solutions. "I try to repurpose items clients already have, make room for them somewhere else, where they can be more functional," she said. Moreover, she demonstrates her proactive approach to moving services by helping clients assess their new space before the move helps them avoid unnecessary stress and costs associated with storage. "When I walk in to help a client get their home on the market, we assess where they're moving ," she said. "We can decide what can stay, what can go. I try to help people avoid having to get a big storage unit, which saves money and headaches."More Than Just Organization: Unique Selling Points and DifferentiatorsWhat truly sets Organization by Christy apart in the realm of home organization services? According to Christy, it's the genuine human connection she forges with her clients. The special personal connection happens organically. "A client's home is their space, filled with special items and memories," she said."In order to come in and go through peoples' personal items, you must create trust. It brings me so much joy once we get through it all. I cherish the friendships I build with my clients and am beyond grateful for the experience."This emphasis on building relationships highlights Christy's exceptional emotional intelligence, a crucial asset when dealing with the often-sensitive process of decluttering. "It would be a lot if you're dealing with an emotional issue here that people have, especially some more than others," she acknowledged. Her ability to provide comfort and understanding alongside practical solutions makes her more than just an organizer; she becomes a trusted partner in transforming her clients' spaces and lives. Furthermore, the breadth of her moving services, from packing to unpacking and setting up the new home, offers a holistic solution that minimizes stress for clients undergoing significant transitions. Her experience in preparing homes for the market, informed by her understanding of staging and the real estate industry, adds another layer of unique value. As she explained, "I've worked with stagers where I see what they envision and what they want out of the house, and then I have to prep the space so that if the customer is still living in there while their house is going to be on the market." This comprehensive approach makes Organization by Christy a one-stop shop for those seeking to simplify their lives and spaces.Cultivating Order: Actionable Insights for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Christy's journey offers valuable lessons for anyone dreaming of starting their own business, especially female entrepreneurs. Her initial success stemmed from recognizing and leveraging her natural talents. If you have a knack for something, don't underestimate its potential! As Christy's story shows, sometimes the most impactful businesses grow organically from a genuine passion. Her experience also underscores the importance of listening to your network. Building genuine connections, as Christy’s has done, fosters trust and loyalty, leading to invaluable word-of-mouth referrals. Furthermore, Christy's evolving service offerings demonstrate the value of adaptability. Be willing to expand your services based on client needs and your growing expertise. Finally, be prepared to face challenges, both practical and emotional. Christy's honesty about the emotional toll of her work and her initial struggles with technology are a reminder that every entrepreneurial journey has its hurdles. However, with passion and perseverance, these can be overcome. Christy plans to offer consulting services in the future to expand her reach and impact, offering an inspiring example of continuous growth and innovation for aspiring business owners.Finding Freedom in Functionality: Concluding Thoughts Christy Barbero's story is a powerful reminder that order isn't just about aesthetics; it's about creating a sense of calm and control in our lives. Organization by Christy offers more than just tidy spaces; it provides a pathway to reduced stress, increased functionality, and the freedom that comes with a well-organized environment. Christy's journey, from an innate ability to a thriving business built on genuine connection and practical solutions, is an inspiration for anyone seeking to turn their passion into purpose. As she helps her clients navigate life's transitions and declutter their spaces, she ultimately helps them declutter their minds and create room for what truly matters. If you're feeling overwhelmed by clutter and longing for a more peaceful and functional home, Christy's story and her services offer a beacon of hope and a tangible path toward finding freedom in functionality right here in Novato, California, and beyond.

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From Singapore Airlines to STEM: Claudine Ng's Entrepreneurial Journey

The Evolving Entrepreneur: From Singapore Airlines to Bay Area After-School ProgramsImagine trading the skies for schoolyards, the hum of jet engines for the excited chatter of children. Claudine Ng’s journey into the world of after-school enrichment programs was far from a planned trajectory. Growing up in Singapore, her academic path led her to Australia, where she pursued organizational psychology as a Singapore Airlines scholar. This prestigious scholarship came with a commitment: graduate, return to Singapore, and serve the airline. And so she did, fulfilling her bond and soaring in the corporate world.But life, as it often does, had other destinations in mind. While in Australia, Claudine met her husband, a Dane whose roots lay in Copenhagen. Their relationship blossomed across continents, leading to a series of international moves—Singapore, Geneva, London, Milwaukee—before finally landing in California. Settling in the Bay Area with young children, Claudine found herself in familiar territory for many working parents: juggling pickups and overlapping schedules. "I was driving them up and down from activity to activity," she recalls. It was during these dizzying days that a lightbulb moment struck: "My business partner at that time and I thought, there should be a service on site for children. A service where children could transition from class to enrichment without the parental pickup scramble.” It seemed so obvious. This simple yet powerful observation marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial adventure, proving that sometimes the most impactful business ideas are born from personal experience. Launching Electivity: Filling a Gap and Building Through CommunityFrom that initial spark of an idea, Electivity was born. Claudine, along with two co-founders, launched Electivity to bridge the gap between the end of the school day and after-school activities. The response was immediate. "We had a client right off the bat," Claudine shares, highlighting the clear unmet need in the market. This early success validated their vision of providing on-site programs that would alleviate the logistical burdens for parents.The team leaned into community relationships, skipping mass advertising in favor of the oldest growth strategy in the book: word of mouth. “No mass marketing. No ads,” Claudine explains. “Just parents and principals referring us to others.” That kind of organic growth doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built on trust, quality, and shared experience.Even the name, Electivity, was intentional—a fusion of “elective” and “activity,” reflecting the diverse choices kids could explore in everything from coding to cooking. Their first client, a school in Mill Valley, became the cornerstone of what would grow into a vibrant network across the Bay Area. The Electivity Model: Empowering Schools and Local TalentElectivity’s model is refreshingly nimble. Instead of staffing a massive team, they collaborate with small local businesses and passionate individuals—carpenters, circus artists, software engineers, bakers, and more. “We’ve worked with so many incredible people who have industry experience and a heart for teaching kids,” Claudine says. “They bring their real-world skills to the classroom.”And Electivity makes it easy for everyone involved. They handle the boring but essential backend logistics—marketing, registration, scheduling, communication, payments—so instructors can focus on what they love: teaching."We want schools to free up their time and resources to focus on the children and the way they run the school, and we want providers to focus on creating amazing curricula and honing their teaching skills," Claudine adds. It’s a model that doesn’t just scale a business; it lifts a community. This innovative practice not only ensures program sustainability but also fosters a thriving community of educators and learners.Navigating the Educational Landscape: Public vs. Private and Ensuring SafetyWorking with over 40 schools and recreation centers across the Bay Area, Electivity has learned to adapt to different systems and red tape. “Districts often require more paperwork and approvals,” Claudine explains. “But the desire for good programs is the same everywhere.”One consistent challenge? Background checks. “If I do a fingerprint scan for a public school, it doesn’t carry over to a private one. I have to pay and repeat the process,” she says. Still, Electivity never compromises on safety. They ensure every instructor meets district and school standards.The classes themselves are as joyful as they are diverse: from cooking to circus arts to STEM and STEAM projects, with options for kids in kindergarten through eighth grade. The mission? Enrich learning while bringing a little magic to the after-school hour. The Multi-Hatted Life of an Entrepreneur: Entrepreneur, Mom, CEO, Snack ManagerRunning Electivity means juggling roles with a sense of humor and resilience. "Yeah, I wear a lot of hats," Claudine laughs. "I’m logistics, I’m marketing, I’m the one on customer service calls. Sometimes I’m even the snack lady." This candid acknowledgment resonates with many entrepreneurs who understand the constant juggling act.Claudine's approach has always been deeply rooted in empathy. She started the business with her own kids in mind. "I always think first as a parent: what would I want my child to walk away with? Then I think like a small business owner. What makes sense?"This dual perspective proved invaluable, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. When schools shut down, Electivity pivoted swiftly, offering free online programs to the community. "We offered free programs online for anyone and everyone to join because we know that at that time, parents also needed a resource."They also refunded families for canceled in-person classes. "We just thought, let’s be human about this. Parents are stressed. Let’s do the right thing." This commitment to doing the right thing, even when it meant financial sacrifice, speaks volumes about Electivity's values.Furthermore, their customer-centric proactive approach to addressing concerns—is to listen—really listen. "If we get negative feedback, we pick up the phone. We talk. And usually, by the end of that call, we’ve made a stronger connection.” Heart First, AlwaysFor Claudine, the true reward of Electivity extends far beyond the financial. "It's definitely the children," she says beaming. "When they leave class happy, it just warms your heart." These moments of connection, like when children recognize her as "the boss of Electivity," underscore the positive impact her business has on young lives.Looking ahead, Electivity is navigating a new chapter. Claudine recently acquired full ownership of the company. It’s a new chapter—a little daunting but a lot more exciting. Revenue has doubled, thanks to process automation and streamlining. "I don’t have a rigid long-term strategy,” she admits. "I believe in being nimble and responding to the needs of our community. Especially with the current landscape, I'm just kind of choosing to see where this will lead us.” This flexible approach, grounded in a deep understanding of the community's needs, has served Electivity well over the past decade and will likely continue to guide its path forward. Beyond Electivity: Empowering Other Women in BusinessClaudine's commitment to community extends beyond Electivity's programs. She served as the president of the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), where she championed women and minority entrepreneurs. "What I brought to the table was the perspective of a small, minority-owned business,” she says. “That voice matters.” Through NAWBO, she helped amplify voices like hers—real, hardworking, resourceful.Claudine's journey is a powerful example of how one person's vision, fueled by a genuine desire to make a difference, can create a thriving business that enriches the lives of many while also contributing to the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. Her story is proof that some of the best business ideas start with lived experience, a little chaos, and a whole lot of heart.

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