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Has the Tablet Industry Finally Caught up to Apple? Just ask Microsoft.
Less than a year ago, on June 18, 2012, Microsoft announced their series of tablets known as Microsoft Surface. Microsoft declared Surface to be: “A feat of engineering and a work of art… With casing made from ultra-light and highly durable magnesium, Surface will change the way you work and play. Run Office apps, watch movies in dazzling HD, catch up with friends and family. Do it all on one beautifully and thoughtfully designed device.”
The “tablet” is built with an integrated kick stand designed to prop up the device at an angle similar to open laptops, making viewing movies, listening to music, and the overall use of the device more preferable. Microsoft also offers a “touch cover,” (very similar to the iPad Smart Case) which clicks into the base of the tablet, doubling as a protective case and a touch sensitive keyboard. With the use of both the built-in kick stand, and the “touch cover,” Microsoft Surface looks more like a small laptop than a tablet, resulting in Microsoft describing the device as “a laptop in tablet form.” But ultimately, the real measure of success is the answer to this question: How does this laptop-tablet compare to the leader in the tablet industry: the iPad?
Let’s look at the user experience tech issues first. Microsoft’s Surface is longer and narrower in comparison to the iPad, however it is much thicker. 4.1mm thicker in fact, and it is 254 grams heavier than the iPad. In addition to Surface’s beefier external design, it falls short in comparison to iPad’s useable storage. Its battery life is also less than half of the iPad. The Surface retail price is around $500 and the Pro version is $900+/-, while the iPad ranges from $330 to $930 (the price increases with storage capacity and the usage of cellular data). However Microsoft’s Surface separates itself from the iPad in raw processing power, having the same Intel Core i5 processor found in Apple’s MacBook Air, which brings us back to the notion that the Surface represents the union of laptop and tablet.
Comparing Microsoft’s Surface series to either the Apple’s iPad or its laptops is simply unfair, as the Surface fits neither mold. But what Microsoft has indeed done is create a new piece of hardware, with a noticeable niche in the laptop-tablet hybrid field; one that may alter both industries in the near future.
It is these types of revolutionary inventions that foster competition and discourage stagnation. Just as blackberry and the iPhone competed for the smartphone heavyweight battle, resulting in ever expanding advancements, this new tiniest laptop (yet bulky tablet), may lead to unimaginable advancements in the new industry it has created.
We will need to watch closely to see if Microsoft’s “tablets” will challenge Apple in areas far beyond those of tablet sales.
Until next time,
Kelli Richards, CEO of the All Access Group, LLC
Google Glass: A Curse or a Blessing?
Yes, Alice, we’ve definitely fallen into the looking glass. Google’s most recent project, Google Glass, will delve far into the realm of science fiction, bringing Tony Stark, Iron Man-esque technology to the masses. The Google Glass project delivers a wearable computer system in the form of glasses, offering hands free messaging, photography, and video recording. Straight out of 007, this offers the ability to share everything you see, live, in real time: directions, reminders, the web – all seen through the lens, right in front of your face.
The glasses have a display in the top right corner of the frame, making endless information available at all times, and will reportedly connect with either your Android or iPhone implementing WiFi, 3g, and 4g coverage. These revolutionary specs won’t just be a piece of spectacular hardware; Google is negotiating with Warby Parker, a company which specializes in the sales of trendy glasses, in an attempt to bring infinite data while still looking fashionable.
The best part of Google’s Project Glass is that Google is currently allowing civilians, not developers, the opportunity to influence product development. Google declared, “We’re looking for bold, creative individuals who want to join us and be a part of shaping the future of Glass.” Applications are being accepted through the use of Google+ and Twitter, through the hashtag #ifihadglass.
While this idea of unlimited data being available even more easily than at your fingertips is revolutionary, it raises more than a few questions regarding privacy. The ability to record everything right in front of you, in real time, is a daunting thought, covering everything from being photographed at a cafe, to making videos in airports. Beyond the questionable “Glass etiquette” that will certainly develop over time, the prospect that Google and the government will be able to access users’ data is shattering.
If the Glass Project brings information right in front of your face, allowing you to communicate, to access the internet, contacts, etc., and share what you are seeing live, what will stop others from accessing your private information? Although a few decades late, Orwell’s 1984 has definitely caught up with us.
The issues that may arise from the mass production of Google Glass are met with equally impressive, revolutionary concepts around social networking and sharing. Glass would be the apex of social sharing, allowing people to be in constant contact, literally letting individuals step into other’s shoes, to view the world from a different point of view. You could be standing in New York’s Time Square and share and trade that experience with someone around the world, exploring the streets of Venice or Sydney, Australia. Such universal sharing would truly redefine the human experience.
At its best, this would also effect topics as broad as human rights and poverty – but the cost remains to be seen. Only time will tell if the Google Glass Project will be the vessel connecting mankind, Pandora’s box, or something in the middle.
Kelli Richards,
CEO of the All Access Group, LLC
The “New” Myspace: A Huge Flop
The rise and fall of MySpace has been pretty well documented – twice. In 2006 Google and MySpace reached a blockbuster deal, with MySpace allowing Google to advertise on its site in return for $900 million. The site was quickly bogged down with excessive advertisements, resulting in a slow, seemingly counterintuitive platform. These pitfalls were accentuated by Facebook’s ever-expanding clean and intuitive design. Even to the novice, MySpace was doomed and becoming quickly irrelevant. However, while Facebook has made MySpace an inferior product for almost all players, the latter has continued to provide substantial traffic in a unique niche – for aspiring and acknowledged musicians.
MySpace had recreated itself in the social networking industry as a way for musicians and fans to connect; for early releases, news and giveaways. So with the release on the “New MySpace,” in September of 2012 – stewarded by one of the leaders in music, Justin Timberlake – one would imagine that the company would expand on strengths, appealing to the only audience they had left. Well, they didn’t. Big mistakes were made. Instead of augmenting their niche in the music industry, the New MySpace disconnected from their prior self, forcing users to reconnect with every friend and band they were associated with on the “old” site. Britney Spears had around 1.5 million friends on the old MySpace; she now has fewer than 7,000 connections. Similarly Justin Timberlake, the creative director and a partner of the New MySpace, had about 1.5 million connections, and now has only 50,000.
So the question now is, can MySpace recover again? It is extremely difficult to see how they can. The errors are not only strategic, of course, the damage to their brand is almost beyond definition. The very last audience MySpace had, the music industry, now has little incentive to continue its use it. And where MySpace falls short, its biggest competitor, Facebook, has grown – gobbling up its real estate and users like PacMan chasing ghosts. Facebook is continuing to up the ante and grow its connections with sites like SoundCloud and Spotify, allowing for easy to use, intuitive sharing of music, targetting up-and-coming and well-known artists.
Today’s digital world is about conglomeration and collaboration, a worldwide effort towards expansion; and that is where the “Old” and the “New” MySpace BOTH fall short. As Facebook has embraced the production of applications from outside sources, MySpace stayed in-house. Shawn Gold, MySpace’s former head of marketing and content said, “MySpace went wide – and not deep enough – in its product development. We went with a lot of products that were shallow and not the best products in the world.”
And oh yes, they forgot to cater to their audience.
Kelli Richards,
CEO of The All Access Group, LLC
Sony’s decline: Have they eaten the poison Apple?
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” – George Santayana, 1905
For today’s history lesson, we’re going to look at two of the biggest names in the tech industry that have risen and fallen in complimentary distribution with one another since the 1980’s.
As one company climbed to the top, the other plummeted but now the tides have changed.
I’m talking of course about Sony and Apple, two companies with storied histories that bare some key similarities to each other. In the successes and failures of each company, the brilliance and blunders seem to be passed back and forth. In order to move forward towards the future, we must look back at the past; so let’s take it from the top.
The 1980’s were a strange time in America; MTV, big hair, and the Brat Pack are some of the first things that come to mind when I think of that decade. Of course, the 1980’s also ushered in a new era of technology, and Apple and Sony were at the forefront. In the beginning of the 1980’s, Apple came out strong with a record breaking IPO and the Macintosh computer. Things quickly went south for the computer giant, as infighting and a decline in sales ultimately saw Steve Jobs leave the company in 1985; beginning what many would refer to as “the dark years” at Apple. During that same time, Sony had started the 1980’s with dismal profits during a global recession that saw a drop in electronics sales.
One of the things that saved Sony was its creativity and drive to pioneer new technologies. While it lost the “format wars” between VHS and Betamax, it was able to move past and eventually develop technologies such as the Compact Disc and Walkman. Similarly, it branched out beyond consumer electronics and got into the music and movie publishing industries; creating a revenue stream that would allow it to profit several times over from single products. Its latest demise, however, came from the company aggressively expanding into new businesses and technologies with little communication or collaboration between the departments. The question now is “Will they bounce back?”
Apple was able to bounce back from those “dark years” when Steve Jobs came back. Under his leadership, the company was able to re-focus and re-establish its brand. They were able to focus on creating great products from top to bottom, coupled with a user experience that was second to none. If Sony wishes to recover in the same way Apple did, then perhaps they’ll do the same. Sony’s reach is a bit broader than Apple’s so in order to do that, they’ll need to increase the communication and support between departments. They have all the parts they need to return to the top, they just have to deliver what the customers want. Apple delivered things that consumers wanted before they even knew that they wanted them. Sony’s approach as of late has been more stagnant, where they wait for something to come out and find a way to replicate it.
The sting of a few hard blows to a company can send it reeling and certainly bruise some egos. Sony needs to take a whiff of the smelling salts and come out of the corner swinging. Once they return to their roots of innovation, creativity, and quality they’ll be sure to see success once again.
Kelli Richards
CEO of The All Access Group, LLC
A Focus on The NAMM Show
This Saturday, January 26th, at the Anaheim Convention Center, from 2:30pm-3:30pm PST, I will host an exciting panel of experts for The NAMM Show, “Bands Inc – Running Your Band as a Business (and as a Brand).”
At a time when digital distribution is the tail that wags the dog, it’s critical for artists and bands to see themselves as a branded business. They must be more responsible than ever to build a strong team around them, to embrace working with consumer brands to increase exposure and find funding, and to engage more actively in social media and D2F (direct to fan) initiatives.
*It’s worth noting that my Amazon #1 Bestseller, “Taking The Crowd to the Cloud – Social Media for the Music Industry,” will be re-released with new and updated info. With social platforms changing almost daily, anyone and everyone in the music space MUST be armed with step-by-step how-to and cutting-edge info.
The show runs through the 27th, and in addition to all of the new products and tech being unveiled at NAMM, there are great professional development sessions and unique product pavilions to explore. Year after year, NAMM keeps attendees on the cutting edge of business trends and new tech, and it’s a privilege to be a presenter there again. Join me on Saturday 1/26 and hear from some of the key players in the ecosystem who enable and inspire bands to thrive, as the industry continues to reinvent itself.
Kamran V, Founder/CEO of POP-AUT: Pop-Aut is an automatic, self-service payment service for creative collaborations such as film, music, games and art. Kamran is currently the Head of New Media Production for Interscope/Geffen/A&M.
Phil Sandhaus, Owner, Phil Sandhaus Productions: Phil is an artist manager, brand marketer, film/theater producer, and former label exec. He has worked with huge artists including the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Bowie, Beyonce, and many others.
Jaunique Sealey, Owner, Jaunique Sealey Consulting: Jaunique is the former social media strategist for Lady Gaga, as EVP of Bus Dev for Atom Digital, and is now a driving social media marketing, digital content strategy and brand development leader under her own banner.
Jeff Price, Founder of TuneCore, Co-Founder & GM of spinART Records & Co-Founder of AAIM (American Assn of Independent Music): Change agent and catalyst in the music tech space, Jeff Price is a staunch and vocal advocate of artist rights and driving revenues for artists in the digital age.
Ned Hearn, Principal, Law Offices of Ned Hearn: A highly respected lawyer, Ned focuses on the intersection of entertainment and technology; clients have included labels, artists, songwriters, and start-ups among others.
You can find us on Saturday at the H.O.T. Zone section of the venue, Hall B, Rm 204-A on the Second Floor.
*To ask me to speak at your next event, email me at info@AllAccessGroup.com
Have Tech Advances Finally Led us into the Jetson Era?
Late last year, a childhood animation icon, the Jetsons, celebrated its 50th anniversary, and sci-fi giant Star Trek isn’t far behind. It’s hard to look around and not see the reality that pop culture so tongue-in-cheek predicted five decades ago. Yes, we have indeed entered an age where most of our lives can be controlled by the press of a button on a box in our hand. Case in point? No, it’s not your TV remote; it’s the Smartphone.
There’s very little our Smartphone cannot do at this point. It has invaded every aspect of our life and dazzled us with convenience. You no longer have to be frustrated if you leave your home and forget to move thermostat down (or up) to save energy and practice green habits. We now have the Smartphone-Controlled home, and it tackles everything you can think of – including the thermostat.
Smartphones now open the garage, adjust home lighting systems and thermostats – and even know your schedule and regulate your home’s temperature from afar before you get in from work each day. Does anyone else feel like we’ve finally entered the Jetsons era?
Are you ready to really think green? How about controlling different room temps, one room at a time.
Gratefully, green power advances are everywhere, even on the level of the individual home and person. Of course, tech cannot work without power – which those of us with friends, colleagues and loved ones hit by Superstorm Sandy last year learned on an exponential level.
One of the many Jetson-age products to address electric outages is The BioLite Campstove, which converts cooking heat to electricity.Burning twigs now produce electricity – enough to power small appliances (enough to charge your smartphone). No fuel needs, just collect the twigs in your area. It’s also lightweight – at only two pounds, there’s no need to even carry fuel. There’s also a bigger version to fuel a house: a wood burning stove that while emitting heat, it powers small appliances.
As tech advances continue on every level, it’s gratifying to see that they have invaded our homes and lives – affecting the world at large and our ecology for the better. It’s about time.
Kelli Richards
CEO of The All Access Group, LLC
Deborah Price
Hewlett Crist
John Cook
2012 Music Revenue: Time to Update Our Model
As 2013 starts to get under way, musicians and labels are starting to look back on 2012 to see how they faired. While the final numbers aren’t in yet, it appears that the music industry as a whole took a slight drop in album sales across digital and physical platforms. Preliminary Nielsen Soundscan data is showing a 4% drop in album sales, even with a 6% increase in digital downloads. This data can either be construed as good news or bad news depending on who you are and how you interpret it. Let’s start with the good news.
The good news is that the music industry is still here! It seems like every year the RIAA and the major labels are warning us that the music industry as we know it will be forced to shut down completely due to piracy and copyright infringement but so far that hasn’t been the case. As a matter of fact, total music purchases are at an all-time high, selling over 1.65 billion units in 2012 (a 3.1% increase from 2011.) This could be in part due to changing revenue streams and models, as evidenced by the increase in digital downloads. It’s important to note that Soundscan data doesn’t account for revenue from streaming, radio, or subscription based platforms such as Pandora, Spotify, YouTube, Rhapsody, etc. On that note, let’s look at the bad news.
While music sales are at an all-time high, streaming and subscription based services are on the rise as well. Spotify topped 5 million paid subscribers in 2012 while cancelling their paid download service that they unveiled in Europe in 2009, though it never quite made it over to the U.S. This is troubling for artists and labels because paid downloads returned more money to them. Similarly, Pandora posted a record number of listener hours and increases in revenue from the year before. The bad news is that both of these services pay fractions of a penny per stream. As a matter of fact, it would take 140 plays on Spotify and 700 plays on Pandora to be equivalent to the royalties paid from one download.
So with no shortage of eager listeners and customers, the labels and distributors must find a way to start fairly compensating artists once and for all. Album sales may drop and revenue models may change but without the artist, the music industry will really self destruct. Let’s hope that 2013 will bring great new content to consumers by using new technology while the new technology and distribution platforms find a way to stay afloat while playing fair.
Looking Forward in 2013,
Kelli Richards
CEO of The All Access Group LLC
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Why Being “Different” Makes You a Stronger Board Member (And Why the Boardroom’s Future Depends on It)
LinkedIn.com, November 2025- The Boardroom Was Built for a World That No Longer Exists
For decades, board recruitment operated like a checklist:
- Prior P&L experience
- Strong finance background
- Fortune-500 pedigree
- Linear corporate career
- Deep domain specialization
- A narrow set of industry-standard credentials
That model made sense in a slower, more predictable era—one where strategic planning spanned years, not quarters, and disruption came in the form of a new competitor, not an entire new paradigm of technology or consumer behavior.
Read the entire article here: Why Being “Different” Makes You a Stronger Board Member (And Why the Boardroom’s Future Depends on It)
Embracing Neurodivergence: The Other Side of Genius (Why Visionary Founders, Innovators & Creatives Are Wired for Breakthroughs)
LinkedIn.com, November 2025- For starters, what does “neurodivergence” mean? Neurodivergence describes people whose brains process, learn, and/or behave differently from what is considered the societal norm or “neurotypical”. This includes a range of neurological conditions and differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette syndrome, and is considered a natural variation in human brain function. The term is used to describe these differences without labeling them as inherently flawed. It refers to differences in how an individual’s brain works, affecting areas like social interaction, communication, learning, and attention.
Read the entire article here: Embracing Neurodivergence: The Other Side of Genius (Why Visionary Founders, Innovators & Creatives Are Wired for Breakthroughs)
Do Something Now that Your Future Self Will Thank You For
Today’s world is more chaotic than ever, and it’s moving at what feels like an ever-increasing speed with lots of moving parts. We don’t have control over much of that — but we do have more control than we think when it comes to our attitude, our habits, and the choices we make today that can affect our lives in the future.
The actions we take in the present moment can support us in creating a more empowered future for ourselves — by recognizing that today’s decisions and efforts can have a long-term impact on our well-being in many areas of our lives. This includes small habits like maintaining our homes, cars, and devices so they serve us well for longer; making healthy lifestyle choices like eating better, committing to daily movement and exercise, and getting sufficient sleep; improving our financial stability by managing spending and setting aside funds regularly for savings and investments; and bigger, more meaningful things like investing in our most important relationships with friends and loved ones — including having difficult conversations when warranted to strengthen and deepen those bonds, even when those moments are challenging.
Plan for a better future by considering your “ideal day” and what you can do starting now to bring that vision closer to reality. Take some of the baby steps outlined above — with consistency — and others I’m sure you’ll come up with that resonate with you. Don’t aim for perfection, but do start now — and embrace the journey with its ups, downs, and sidesteps. What matters most is consistent, mindful effort in the areas that are most meaningful for you today and for the long term. Believe me, your future self will appreciate all of it!
Note: This is a double issue, so it’s a bit longer than usual — thanks for indulging me. I have a lot I want to share with you!
Be Well,
Kelli
Breaking through the Cobwebs of Calcification
When one Too Many Disappointments Knocks You Out of Orbit
When you get knocked down and suffer a stretch of disappointing experiences or letdowns over time, your soul and life force can begin to harden or calcify. In this article, I discuss how to navigate through these times to regain your vitality and your compass.
Seeing Entire Universes Within a Single Idea
Collapsing Time to Accelerate Outcomes
Most people treat ideas as small sparks that might turn into something – someday, down the road. But visionary leaders know that every powerful idea already contains an entire universe within it—an ecosystem of possibilities waiting to be activated. The shift comes when you can see the whole field of potential in a single idea—and act from that place. Do that, and you collapse time. What might take years can unfold in months or weeks, sometimes even faster. The next time inspiration strikes, don’t ask “what could this become?” Instead, ask: what universe is already here now, waiting for me to step into it?
Cocooning for the Next Level
Why Visionary Leaders Must Pull Back to Reinvent and Rise During Periods of Transformation
The most visionary leaders know that real transformation doesn’t happen in the spotlight — it happens in the quiet. Here’s why pulling back, cocooning, and reimagining your identity is the secret rhythm of reinvention that precedes every major breakthrough, and propels you to greater success.
Spotlight: Athena Alliance
I’ve long dabbled with the notion of sitting on paid boards (private and/or public). Recently not one but several trusted colleagues who are on boards urged me to join Athena Alliance. It’s a prestigious community that supports leaders to build impact across the portfolio of their career — whether in the C-Suite, in the boardroom, as investors, advisors, entrepreneurs, thought leaders and more. They host curated live gatherings, virtual webinars, and provide rich educational opportunities for participants to become board ready, to elevate their careers, and to leave their mark in the way that suits them the best.
The caliber of the women I’ve met in this network so far has been really premium & prestigious; & the learnings are impactful. I’m betting that my board participation will most likely come through referrals within my network, but even early days, the insights and connections I’m getting from being a member of Athena will no doubt deliver wonderful opportunities as well.
In Memoriam
Each year the big awards shows like the Oscars and Grammys pay tribute to colleagues in the industry that we’ve lost that year. We lose great individuals in threes it seems. Just this past month, we lost three amazing individuals who i’ve always had great admiration for. Each of them was fiercely authentic and operated by their own rules. They all played full out throughout their lives and left lasting cultural legacies. I’d like to share some brief personal observations about each of these icons.
Robert Redford
I have loved Robert Redford’s work for over 50 years; I think my first exposure to him was in Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid at the theater. His magnetism and charisma was evident even to a young me, and the camaraderie he shared with Paul Newman was electric. I loved how he chose thoughtful roles that allowed him to showcase and portray a rich array of facets of his personality and character — both as an actor and as a director. Then of course taking a stand for independent films by founding the Sundance Film Festival demonstrated his versatility and conviction towards making a difference. Both of us narrowly escaped being passengers on United Airlines Flight 93 on 9-11; I always wanted to have that conversation with him about what the circumstances were for each of us — if we’d had the chance to meet, but alas I never got that opportunity.
Jane Goodall
Jane Goodall was perhaps best known for her ground-breaking research on chimpanzees in Tanzania early in her career showcasing their complex social lives and emotions, and changing the understanding of human-animal relations. I saw a film about her work when I was a child in the early 70s, and it blew my mind. I was in awe of this woman from then on. She went on to become a global advocate for environmental and animal welfare issues throughout the rest of her career. She published over 30 books, was the subject of over 40 films, and was named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II. I was fortunate to spend some quality time with her over lunch at a TED event over 25 years ago; a moment which will remain among my most cherished connections for the rest of my days. She was truly an inspiration.
Diane Keaton
I have loved Diane Keaton from her earliest roles in The Godfather and Annie Hall, on through to the Father of the Bride films, First Wives Club and Something’s Gotta Give — each time paired with powerful talented co-stars who showcased her unique gifts. She cultivated a persona where it felt like she was someone you would genuinely appreciate as a cherished friend (and I’m guessing her authenticity transcended her acting – like she was that way in real life). She also established herself as a fashion trendsetter (she created basic, timeless looks). She also had design and architectural sensibilities, and became known for renovating and restoring historic homes. She was a true renaissance woman, and her presence will be greatly missed.
Media Recommendations: Books
Detached: How to Let Go, Heal & Become Irresistible
Some of you may have heard of the concept of Attachment Theory which is an evolutionary, psychological framework that addresses how people behave in relationships based on patterns they encountered in their families of origin with caregivers. This book dives into the different types of attachment many of us have adopted as adults — to realize unhealthy patterns and behaviors, and to break cycles that may be negatively impacting or even sabotaging our most important relationships. It’s full of stories and practical tools we can adopt to stop being at the effect of other people’s approval or reactions. Also, how to start becoming more aware and mindful of what’s happening in real time, to re-connect with yourself, to pivot and to heal.
Mastering Mindful Eating: Transform Your Relationship with Food
As many of my long-term readers will appreciate, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are topics I’ve gravitated to for years. This book focuses on overhauling your relationship with food and dialing in healthier eating habits; leaning plant-based and anti-inflammatory which increasingly are being proven to support lifestyle optimization and our goals towards healthy longevity. Whether you’re dealing with weight issues, diseases or simply a desire to improve your presence and overall wellness, this book offers a wealth of both practical approaches and mindset adjustments that can support you on your journey. It also includes roughly 30 yummy, healthy recipes (with full color pictures of each) to activate your senses and incent you to dive in.
Media Recommendations: Movies
Hung Up on a Dream
(Zombies documentary)
produced by Tom Hanks & directed by Robert Schwartzman
The Zombies were an incredibly talented, hard-working band who at one point were second only to the Beatles in their fame in the UK (during the mid-60s) but who were overlooked to a large extent by the masses. By the time their biggest commercial hit single “Time of the Season” hit #1 on the charts, the band had broken up. They were deservedly inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. This documentary showcases the highs and lows of their journey while demonstrating that despite their challenges, they continue to inspire generations of musicians even today.
People Say the Nicest Things…
“I have worked closely with Kelli for over 20 years. She is dedicated, committed and completely focused on everything she works on. She seeks to improve the quality of other people’s lives no matter what she is working on. She is a trusted colleague, a valued friend, and a reliable source for strategic information in the age of digital transformation. I’m looking forward to co-creating and collaborating with her on future endeavors.”
Dave Jaworski
Principal Program Manager, Microsoft Teams | Former CEO of PassAlong Networks
Cocooning for the Next Level: Why Visionary Leaders Must Pull Back to Reinvent and Rise During Periods of Transformation
LinkedIn.com, October 2025- The Paradox of the Visionary
Visionary leaders are often seen as unstoppable — always innovating, building, expanding. But what few understand is that sustained expansion requires intentional contraction.
Read the entire article here: Cocooning for the Next Level: Why Visionary Leaders Must Pull Back to Reinvent and Rise During Periods of Transformation
Seeing Entire Universes Within a Single Idea (and collapsing time to accelerate outcomes)
LinkedIn.com, September 2025- Most people treat ideas as seeds that may or may not sprout, waiting to see if they’ll grow. But visionaries know something different: every truly potent idea already contains an entire universe within it. It is a fully formed ecosystem of possibilities, waiting for us to perceive it in its wholeness and bring it into reality.
Read the entire article here: Seeing Entire Universes Within a Single Idea (and collapsing time to accelerate outcomes)
Breaking Through the Cobwebs of Calcification (when one too many disappointments knocks you out of orbit)
LinkedIn.com, August 2025 – When you get knocked down and suffer a stretch of disappointing experiences or letdowns over time, your soul and life force can begin to harden or caldify. In this article, I discuss how to navigate through these times to regain your vitality and your compass.
Read the entire article here: Breaking Through the Cobwebs of Calcification (when one too many disappointments knocks you out of orbit)
Honoring Your Zone of Genius
We all have strengths, superpowers, and things we excel at that come easily to us — but we can’t always see these things ourselves. If you know yours, you’re a step ahead in life. If you don’t, ask those closest to you (your inner circle) to share what they see in you in that context.
Once you gain clarity — and it truly sinks in — I believe it’s your duty to honor yourself by embracing the things you do really well, that feel natural and effortless, that you enjoy, and that create a meaningful impact on those around you.
I do my best to live this way — and you know what? Life gets a lot easier and more fun when you do! Sometimes it takes a while to get there, but the impact you make and the enjoyment you get from it are well worth the effort it takes to dial this in.
What are your zones of genius? Do you know? I’m curious to hear — if you’d like to share them with me. And if you don’t know, maybe I can help… Reach out here!
Articles:
Shifting Communication Dynamics From “What Do You Do” to “Who Are You”?
I’m on a mission to eradicate the “What do you do?” question and replace it with ones that foster more human, soul-level connections from the start — beyond business norms. Maybe it’s time for a change. I share more in this article.
Practicing Self-Care in Busy, Uncertain Times Tapping into Your Own Renewable Energy
In today’s world of nonstop demands and competing priorities, “self-care” is often reduced to bubble baths and brief escapes. But in reality, self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s an overlooked leadership strategy and a daily survival imperative. Here are five grounded approaches to help you tap into your inner energy reservoir when everything around you feels depleted.
The Analog Renaissance; Why Tangible Experiences Matter in a Digital Age
Despite the pervasiveness of digital technology, some analog experiences continue to endure—retaining their meaning, significance, and purpose for a variety of reasons I explore in this article.
Why VCs and PE Firms Need Trusted Advisors in Their Corner
An overlooked force multiplier for founders & portfolio company success. Seasoned, trusted support can make a critical difference for founders. That’s why VCs and PE firms benefit from experienced, objective advisors like myself—partners who can help portfolio company leaders navigate challenges and avoid costly missteps. With fresh perspective, I uncover overlooked opportunities and proactively address issues before they escalate.
Spotlight
Innovit
(
Italian Innovation and Culture Hub in San Francisco)
There’s a fantastic organization in San Francisco called Innovit, which brings talented innovators and founders based in Italy to the heart of Silicon Valley. In doing so, they’ve created a powerful ecosystem and cultural bridge. Each month, they spotlight founders from different industry sectors.
In July, my colleague Jalaj Hora—who was curating the Fashion and Beauty cohort—invited me to participate as both a mentor and a Shark Tank-style judge for the visiting founders. I was truly impressed by the caliber of the entrepreneurs and the professionalism, vision, and impact of the Innovit team. I look forward to getting more involved with them.
Media Recommendation
Devo — a new documentary just released on Netflix — is an absolute must-watch for fans of the band. I first met them when they were taking off on the heels of “Whip It,” during a signing at my local Tower Records. Later, I had the chance to interact with Mark Mothersbaugh while running music at Apple, and he remains one of the most talented and authentic artists I’ve ever encountered.
The documentary explores their influences, rise to fame, and the cultural impact they had on a generation. It reveals who they truly were: part visionary artists (in the broadest sense — true performance artists across media and formats), part societal catalysts who encouraged critical thinking and challenged norms, and part uniquely talented musicians who happened to ignite the zeitgeist of the early ’80s. They were never content with the status quo — quite the opposite — and they arrived at exactly the right time and place.
People Say the Nicest Things…
“I engaged Kelli during a pivotal time during my career, and I cannot imagine having navigated so many storms without her unwavering support and guidance. She helped me refind my conviction and “use my power” as I moved from a large corporate role to a CEO role. During each of our sessions she would offer great ideas to stay ahead of the curve and in control of my story and messaging. She pushed me further and higher than anyone I’ve ever worked with before. For anyone at a crossroads or in need of a career boost, Kelli is unparalleled. I value her real world perspective and because she comes from direct experience her advice is relevant, actionable and effective. I wouldn’t be where I am now without Kelli’s support!”
Shauna McIntyre
fmr CEO, Sense Photonics
(Board Director, ex-Google, +)
Why VCs and PE Firms Need Trusted Advisors in Their Corner An overlooked force multiplier for founders & portfolio company success
LinkedIn.com, August 2025 – Trusted advisors offer a variety of benefits to startup founders and leaders, enabling them to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and increase their chances of success. Here’s how. …
The Analog Renaissance; Why Tangible Experiences Matter in a Digital Age
LinkedIn.com, July 2025 – Analog living—whether in the form of vinyl records, handwritten notes, or film photography—isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the past. It’s a conscious rebalancing, a reminder that not everything valuable can be downloaded, scrolled through, or stored in the cloud. These analog practices offer something our digital tools often can’t: depth, texture, slowness, and intention. …
The Analog Renaissance; Why Tangible Experiences Matter in a Digital AgeRead More »
Shifting Communication Dynamics From “What Do You Do” to “Who Are You”
LinkedIn.com, June 2025 – We’re overdue to shift from role-based introductions to more meaningful, soul-based connections. Here’s how. …
Shifting Communication Dynamics From “What Do You Do” to “Who Are You”Read More »
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David Butler: Investor, Advisor, Designer, Brand Strategist
David Butler brings over 25 years of experience as an investor, advisor, designer and brand strategist to his current role as Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Coca-Cola. Joining the company as its first global head of design, David successfully led the design-driven turnaround of an $80M brand, prompting Fast Company to name him a “Master of Design” and Forbes to elect him to their “Executive Dream Team.” Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-david-butler
My Favorite Book of 2015 for Entrepreneurs
December 14, 2015, Inc. These cutting-edge, scalable trends are attracting not only lots of investment, but also great talent — which are two of the key drivers behind any successful startup. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/my-favorite-book-of-2015-for-entrepreneurs.html
From Seinfeld to Bieber: How to Engage the Right Celebrity for Your Business?
Companies engage celebrities to participate at launch or marketing events, milestones and anniversaries, sales conferences, or other events to honor and celebrate key employees, VIP customer appreciation events, birthday parties for CEOs, fundraising events, and more.
From Seinfeld to Bieber: How to Engage the Right Celebrity for Your Business
December 7, 2015, Inc. How to get in on the “star-up” game.
How to Pay Attention to the Whispers When Vetting a Connection?
kinds of distracting, time-consuming, and expensive legal dealings, which were a big drain on my business–and on me, personally.
Though it took a long time, I ultimately prevailed in that case, but it was a painful experience and one I’d like to help others avoid. Trust me, no small business owner needs that kind of angst.
Jay Samit: Disrupt You, Master Personal Transformation (Part II)
There are very few people who have worked as successfully across as many industries as Jay Samit has, and he wanted to share that knowledge and help people on their journey. That is why he wrote the bestseller Disrupt You, Master Personal Transformation, Seize Opportunity, and Thrive in the Era of Endless Innovations. Throughout this book, Jay explores the importance of personal disruption. “You really have to say, what is limiting you in this limitless world?
Jay Samit: Disrupt You, Master Personal Transformation (Part I)
Jay Samit is the CEO of See Change International, a leading multi-screen video services company. A dynamic entrepreneur, Jay is widely recognized as one of the world’s leading experts on disruption and innovation. Described by Wired Magazine as having the coolest job in the industry, he’s raised hundreds of millions of dollars for startups, sold companies to fortune five hundred firms, and has transformed entire industries.
Gail Zappa: Tireless Champion, Wonderful Friend
Gail, the wife of musician Frank Zappa, was a role model and a tireless champion on behalf of her husband and children for many years and has been a protector of Frank’s estate. She was compassionate, extremely smart and creative advocate and champion, and over time, she became an outspoken advocate for artists to retain their rights and their masters.
Spotify Could Go Away Overnight And No One Would Care
November 9, 2015, Hypebot.com Although Spotify was able to get its foot in the door early, the presence of companies like Apple Music, Amazon Prime, and others means that the historically un-profitable streaming service either needs to find away to differentiate itself from the competition or risk crashing and burning. Read the entire article here: http://www.hypebot.com/hypebot/2015/11/spotify-could-go-away-overnight-and-no-one-would-care-.html?curator=MusicREDEF
Spotify Could Go Away Overnight And No One Would Care
Although Spotify was able to get its foot in the door early, the presence of companies like Apple Music, Amazon Prime, and others means that the historically un-profitable streaming service either needs to find away to differentiate itself from thecompetition or risk crashing and burning.
What’s the Difference Between a Coach and a Mentor?
No matter your stage, both mentors and coaches can be valuable resources. What’s the difference between the two? How do you know which is needed?
Cynthia Kersey, the Unstoppable Woman
So few people really take the risk to live their dreams, play full out with passion & commitment, and create true impact and legacy during their time on the planet. Cynthia Kersey is definitely one of those rare individuals. Cynthia is the Chief Humanitarian Officer of the Unstoppable Foundation (hyperlink?), whose mission is to ensure that every child on the planet receives access to the life-long gift of education. Just read that sentence a few times and stand in awe, right? That’s a mission worth getting out of bed for each morning!
Influencers on a Plane: 3 Ways to Strike Up Great Conversations
Whether you meet people who end up providing new business opportunities, find great new friends, connect with someone influential, or simply reconnect with established colleagues, with the right mindset, you can improve your business just by striking up a conversation on the road.
3 Signs It’s Time for a (Professional) Breakup
October 19, 2015, Inc. Ending a professional relationship is sometimes necessary, and it can lead to better opportunities.
3 Signs It’s Time for a (Professional) Breakup
A leader is more likely to feel weighed down by professional negativity and anxiety, which can lead to a loss of self-confidence and reduced productivity–and can even bring the business to a grinding halt.
What’s the Difference Between a Coach and a Mentor?
October 15, 2015, Forbes Women We hear a lot about coaching and mentoring — for good reason. As Zig Ziglar famously said, “A lot of people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could.” Read the entire article here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/ellevate/2015/10/15/the-difference-between-a-coach-and-a-mentor/
Influencers on a Plane: 3 Ways to Strike Up Great Conversations
October 12, 2015, Inc. With the right mindset, you can improve your business just by striking up a conversation on the road. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/influencers-on-a-plane-three-ways-to-strike-up-great-conversations.html
Why It Pays to Identify and Approach Mentors in the Professional ‘Cafeteria’
October 7, 2015, Entrepreneur At times, the workplace “cafeteria” resembles a middle-school lunchroom, with heightened stakes and competitors striving for power in lieu of popularity. Who sits where, and why? Read the entire article here: https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/why-it-pays-to-identify-and-approach-mentors-in-the/249748
3 Reasons You Need a Mentor, Even If You Don’t Think You Do
September 28, 2015, Inc. If you want to experience success in any capacity, you owe it to yourself to find great mentors. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/3-reasons-you-need-a-mentor-even-if-you-don-t-think-you-do.html
Rob Tercek: Speaker, Innovator, Strategist
Robert Tercek’s unique views on managing innovation are sought by organizations around the world. His motto is “Inventing the Future.” He is passionate about inspiring audiences to seize their own destiny by thinking creatively and taking decisive action. Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/category/Technology
Jay Samit: CEO SeaChange International
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-jay-samit
How Amazon Shows the Need for a Tech Industry Workforce Revolution
September 18, 2015, Inc. Business is not about being cutthroat anymore; it’s time for the tech industry to re-evaluate the perks being offered to workers. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/how-amazon-shows-the-need-for-a-tech-industry-workforce-revolution.html
Karen Stever and Frank Gryner
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-karen-stever-frank-gryner
4 Characteristics of Trailblazing Entrepreneurs
September 4, 2015, Inc. Trailblazers don’t just see a need in the market — they create new markets, and they forge their own paths to get where their outsized visions tell them they need to go. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/4-characteristics-of-trailblazing-entrepreneurs.html
Steve Jobs Grew From His Failures — You Can, Too
August 28, 2015, Inc. Any weakness — if you look at it the right way — is a lesson. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/steve-jobs-grew-from-his-failures-you-can-too.html
The Art of Taking Vacation for Entrepreneurs
August 14, 2015, Inc. Although circumstances will understandably make it challenging to get away sometimes, the point is not just to get away physically, but to also distance yourself mentally.
4 Ways a Great Advisor Can Protect Your Investment
August 7, 2015, Huff Post Women Last year marked the highest annual total of venture capital funding since 2001, and with $47.3 billion in investments, this represents a 62 percent year-over-year growth. Read the entire article here: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/4-ways-a-great-advisor-ca_b_7957254/amp
Wearable Technology – Where Fashion & Fitness Converge
Think of the obvious first, like fashion electronics. Whether it’s FitBit or the Apple Watch that just hit the scene, or Jawbone, or any of these things that are now considered fashion accessories – but they are primarily fitness accessories that give you information in real time about what’s happening with your body and your activity level.
Why Advisors Are Worth Your Equity (and How to Find a Good One)
Think of these advisors as business sherpas: people more experienced than you who help you navigate and climb the startup mountain.
Why Advisors Are Worth Your Equity (and How to Find a Good One)
July 24, 2015 Inc Magazine Think of these advisors as business sherpas: People more experienced than you who help you navigate and climb the startup mountain. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/why-advisers-are-worth-your-equity-and-how-to-find-a-good-one.html
Jim Griffin
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-jim-griffin
Nick Adler
“This is a quote by Nick Adler” Nick Adler single handedly saved the Hollywood Sunset Strip and saved way more than The Roxy. Listen here for the story! Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-qa-nic-adler-of-sunset-strip-music-festival
Tom Keifer
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://jeeni.com/track/kelli-richards-interviews-tom-keifer-of-cinderella
Tom Silverman
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-tommy-boys-ceo-tom-silverman
5 Secrets to Building High-Yield Partnerships
Forming strategic partnerships not only creates a powerful reciprocal network, but also propels you toward your goals, exposes you to new insights and optimizes the time and energy you invest in relationships. And these advantages work both ways.
4 Expensive Mistakes Your Start-up Could Make-And How to Avoid Them
June 12, 2015 Inc. Magazine In business and in life, there are certain dos and don’ts that can decide the fate of your business and your career.
4 Expensive Mistakes Your Startup Could Make — and How to Avoid Them
In business and in life, there are certain dos and don’ts. Four common (and costly) don’ts I often see first-time entrepreneurs make and how to avoid them
Michael Solomon
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-michael-solomon
Will Tidal Make Waves In The Music Industry Or Get Washed Out?
May 25, 2015 Tech Crunch In late March, when a group of A-list musicians gathered in Manhattan to show support for Jay Z’s new music streaming service, Tidal, expectations were sky-high. Read the entire article here: https://techcrunch.com/2015/05/25/will-tidal-make-waves-in-the-music-industry-or-get-washed-out/
Greg Estes
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-greg-estes
Video Marketing Lessons Small Businesses Can Learn From Big Brands
For starters, a high-quality or clever video has the potential to go viral, which can get your brand in front of the eyes of millions of people in a single afternoon. Video also can be inexpensive and therefore cost effective, provided you know what you’re doing.
Wild Bill Stealy
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-interviews-jw-wild-bill-stealey
Is It Time to Spring Clean Your Business? Here’s 4 Ways on How to Do It!
It’s spring! As signs of life begin to reappear outside, you might feel the urge to swing open the windows and tackle that growing pile of clutter that you ignored all winter.
5 Secrets on Getting the Most Out of Partnerships
April 28, 2015 Entrepreneur Every entrepreneur and business leader needs something — money, information, technology, relationships or whatever.
How to Make Money By Talking to Cool People
According to a survey KnowledgeStorm and Universal McCann conducted, 65% of business and IT professionals listen to podcasts for personal and business purposes, and 60 percent interviewees said whitepapers and analyst reports would be more attractive in podcast form.
4 Ways to Make the Most of Your Mentor-Mentee Relationship
In a climate where there’s no free lunch, it’s easy to assume there’s a hidden catch. But if you feel this way, it’s because you don’t understand how mentorship helps your mentor. Did you know that training and advising mentees is a powerful way for your mentor to gain leadership skills and team-building experience? And that mentees often help their mentors understand things in new ways through feedback, communication, and interpersonal skills?
Streaming and Beyond: Apple Will Lead the Way to the Next Music Experience
Listeners now control the entire experience. We can listen to our favorite artists or songs at any time and on any device. Streaming has even made the listening experience social. Services such as Spotify are integrated with Facebook, allowing listeners to see what their friends are listening to in real time, making it easy to discover new music.
Streaming and Beyond: Apple Will Lead the Way to the Next Music Experience
April 6, 2015 The Huffington Post You could buy the physical album, or you could spend an afternoon waiting for the song to come on the radio so you could record it on a cassette tape in your boom box. Read the entire article here: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/streaming-and-beyond-appl_b_6996898
Peter Bregman
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-peter-bregman
Is It Time to Spring Clean Your Business? Here’s How to Do It
April 3, 2015, Inc. Spring cleaning is about starting fresh. By applying this mindset to your business, you can return your business to a healthier, livelier, and more profitable state in no time. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/is-it-time-to-spring-clean-your-business-here-s-how-to-do-it.html
Can Apple’s Interactive Digital Music Solution Refresh the Music Industry?
Few artists are likely to follow in U2’s footsteps with the same strategy after the backlash from iTunes users, but when a challenge emerges in the market, we can always look to Apple to lead with the most creative solutions. The “Songs of Innocence” maneuver was Apple showing its hand: The solution to diminishing music sales could be an interactive digital music approach.
How The Apple Watch Is Paving The Way To A New Generation Of Wearable Technology
The Apple Watch will give you the power to optimize daily tasks, leverage apps for information and communication, and be more productive and efficient in general, just as smartphones do. But with the Apple Watch, you’ll be able to do it all hands-free rather than having to carry your phone around in your hand.
Dr. Judith Orloff, New York Times Best-Selling Author
Transforming the face of psychiatry, Judith Orloff MD asserts that we are keepers of an innate intuitive intelligence so perceptive that it can tell us how to heal — and prevent — illness.Yet intuition and spirituality are the very aspects of our wisdom usually disenfranchised from traditional health care. Dr. Orloff is accomplishing for psychiatry what physicians like Dean Ornish and Mehmet Oz have done for mainstream medicine — she is proving that the links between physical, emotional, and spiritual health can’t be ignored. Dr. Orloff is a New York Times bestselling author and is on the UCLA psychiatric clinical faculty. She specializes in treating empaths and sensitive people in her Los Angeles based private practice. She has spoken at medical schools, hospitals, the American Psychiatric Association, Fortune Magazine’s Most Powerful Women Summit, and alternative and traditional health forums — venues where she presents practical intuitive tools to doctors, patients, and everyday people. In response to her work, The Los Angeles Times calls Dr. Orloff “a prominent energy-based healer.” Dr. Orloff’s latest book “The Empath’s Survival Guide: Life Strategies for Sensitive People” (Sounds True, 2017) is an invaluable resource to help sensitive people of all kinds develop healthy coping mechanisms in our high-stimulus world without experiencing compassion fatigue or burnout. Then empaths can fully embody their gifts of intuition, creativity, and compassion. Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-dr-judith-orloff
How the Apple Watch Is Paving the Way to a New Generation of Wearable Tech
March 20, 2015, Inc The next frontier is wearable technology and the Apple Watch will not only be a timekeeper, but it will also be a timesaver. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/how-the-apple-watch-is-paving-the-way-to-a-new-generation-of-wearable-tech.html
Turn Up Your Volume: 5 Big Moves Entrepreneurs Can Learn From Music Moguls
When you think about it, there are multiple ways that the music industry reflects what you’re trying to accomplish as an entrepreneur. Music rewards innovation and originality–finding “the next big thing” is a mantra you both share–and you both aim to immerse customers in rich and compelling experiences, right?
Can Apple’s Interactive Digital Music Solution Refresh the Music Industry?
March 17, 2015, Wired, Innovation Insights When U2 released its album “Songs of Innocence” with an exclusive iTunes partnership, the band was trying to figure out something a bit more complex than simply reaching as many fans as possible.
Peter Dekom
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-peter-dekom-0
5 Critical Lessons in Mergers and Acquisitions From the Apple-Beats Deal
March 13, 2015, Inc. 5 critical lessons from the Apple-Beats deal to keep mergers and acquisitions seamless and swift.
5 Critical Lessons in Mergers and Acquisitions From the Apple-Beats Deal
Mergers and acquisitions are notoriously complicated, clumsy, and fraught with bad feelings when they’re not executed carefully and strategically. Often, leaders fail to communicate, which derails productivity and leaves employees worried about their jobs. Companies also tend to struggle to manage customer integration, branding, and media relations during the transition.
Alan Weiss
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-alan-weiss
How to Harness Power Like a Celebrity
While there is such a thing as “overnight success,” most celebrities work hard over a long period of time to reach their powerful status. Here are three strategies of the stars that business professionals can use to make a difference in the world and do things that truly matter to them:
The Super Connector’s Guide to Making Powerful Business Introductions
As an entrepreneur, you understand the importance of having a strong network. What many people don’t understand is that it’s not always who you know, but what you do with those connections, that matters. Throughout my career, my extensive network in Silicon Valley has allowed me to create intros for startups seeking funding for their ventures and secure celebrities like Jerry Seinfeld for corporate events. But I haven’t done this by connecting with a bunch of random people on LinkedIn; I’ve nurtured these relationships through the power of reciprocal networking. If you aren’t actively looking for ways to make valuable introductions for your connections, your network isn’t as strong as it could be. Here are a few ways to make winning introductions that will lead to lucrative long-term opportunities for you and your connections. How to Make a Powerful Business Introduction When you start making business introductions in person, it can feel a bit awkward. But the key to a successful connection is a clear understanding of what each individual has to gain from the relationship. If your connections don’t see an advantage to meeting the people you suggest, they’ll be skeptical of your intent. A proper business introduction immediately erases confusion among mixed groups of people. It sets the stage for respectful interactions and eases the otherwise uncomfortable first conversation. Always introduce the person with more authority first. Adding explanatory statements after saying each person’s name will also get the conversation flowing naturally and provide context. These can be simple statements such as their job titles. When introducing one person to a group, announce that person’s name and identifier, and introduce each group member in the order they’re sitting or standing. Connecting people who offer complementary services is a great way to promote mutually beneficial relationships. You can also offer to let people you respect sift through your LinkedIn connections and facilitate these meetings to add value. Tips for Navigating the Uncomfortable Email Introduction Making introductions in person usually feels less forced than sending emails out of the blue, but it’s not always feasible to get the two people you want to connect in the same place at the same time. This is where email introductions come in. When emailing your connections to establish an introduction, make sure you always: Ask for permission first. Explain the value proposition for each party meeting the other, and ask if they’d feel comfortable with you making the connection. Mention whether they’ve met before. People often forget brief meetings, and the reminder can save them some embarrassment. Make haste slowly. Good introductions require careful preparation. Think through how both parties could benefit from each other, and spell it out in an email. Hurried, ill-planned emails can have a negative impact on these burgeoning relationships–and your reputation. Encourage the conversation. You never want to start an email thread, only to receive no response from either party. To avoid this social disaster, urge both people in the email to arrange a time to talk in the near future. Make action steps clear. Be straightforward in your email, and outline what the specific next steps should be. Solid introductions always come down to adding value for other people. When you set up a long-term cycle of promoting mutual wins, you position yourself as a credible and trustworthy business connection. Establishing a reputation for facilitating great relationships is the best way to increase your chances of success, no matter what field you’re in. And as this cycle of reciprocity continues throughout your career, the referrals, invitations, and unique experiences will start pouring in. This article was previously published in Inc. To your best success, Kelli Richards, CEO of the All Access Group, LLC PS: Subscribe to my FREE All Access Group Newsletter https://bit.ly/AAGNewletter PSS: Listen to an entire library of intimate discussions with industry visionaries https://bit.ly/AllAccessPodcastSeries (Priceless)
5 Unlikely Music Legends With Great Advice for Entrepreneurs
February 25, 2014, LinkedIn Articles As an entrepreneur, it’s important to keep your ears open for helpful advice — especially when you’re new to the game. Read the entire article here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140225155053-9638-5-unlikely-music-legends-with-great-advice-for-entrepreneurs/
Know When to Hold ‘Em, Fold ‘Em, and Walk Away in a Business Deal
In high-stakes poker, managing your emotions is just as important as the hand you’ve been dealt. In order to emerge with your mortgage intact, it’s vital to have an effective poker face.
Business negotiations require a similar approach. Letting your emotions rule your decision-making process can be catastrophic, but failing to seek a win-win situation can be just as dangerous. With that in mind, how can you maintain your cool and, ultimately, your control of the situation?
In this article, Kelli Richards explains how to stay level-headed when the chips are down.
Jeet Singh
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-jeet-singh
How Writing a Book Can Advance Your Career
What’s more, writing a book is a great way to establish you as a credible industry expert. You can create a brand platform for yourself, increase your market value, differentiate yourself from competitors, and discover new ways to grow your authority in your field. But before you can add the title “published author” to your resume, you need to invest some time and energy in planning, crafting, and publishing your unique message–and understanding how the publishing world really works.
Know When to Hold ‘Em, Fold ‘Em, and Walk Away in a Business Deal
February 6, 2015, Inc. The only way to come out on top of a business deal is to pay attention to what’s on the table and play smart. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/know-when-to-hold-em-fold-em-and-walk-away-in-a-business-deal.html
Steve Rubel
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-steve-rubel
5 Ways The Cloud Can Make Your Business & Personal Life Easier
The cloud is becoming a bigger part of our everyday lives. Use it to enhance your business and personal life, increase productivity, and to give you peace of mind when you store and back up your most important files.
Roberta Medina
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-roberta-medina
5 Simple Steps to Schedule Your Week for Business and Personal Success
As an entrepreneur, attending to your work is essential for building your business. But creating a balanced life is the key to sustained success in the office and at home. Aim to structure your time so you can meet both personal and professional obligations, then establish, communicate, and maintain healthy boundaries so you can actually live the lifestyle you desire. It’s doable!
COPING WITH FAILURE The Ultimate Entrepreneur Pep Talk: 4 Important Affirmations for Any Innovator
Having a list of mantras that you can pull out of your toolkit in any situation will prepare you to turn challenges into successes.
6 Surefire Tactics That Will Ignite Client Referrals
January 15, 2015, Inc. Here are six strategic ways to ask for referrals and grow your business exponentially. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/6-surefire-tactics-that-will-ignite-client-referrals.html
5 Reasons Developing Confidence Is Critical to Your Success
Confidence is essential to your success and that of your business — in fact, it’s vital to everything you do in life. In my own career, confidence has been a pivotal skill and strength I’ve needed every step of the way, especially in the male-dominated tech and music industries.
Just Because You Have 500+ Connections Doesn’t Mean Your Network Is Healthy
January 9, 2015, Inc. The best way to build solid connections is to earn a reputation of being a person who adds value for others in virtually every interaction you have with them. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/just-because-you-have-500-connections-doesn-t-mean-your-network-is-healthy.html
Just Because You Have 500+ Connections Doesn’t Mean Your Network Is Healthy
The best way to build solid connections is to earn a reputation of being a person who adds value for others in virtually every interaction you have with them.
12 Affirmations For The Struggling Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs are an optimistic lot. Naysayers might say “naïve.” But they have to be. Odds are against their success, but those who do succeed will provide for their families, solve customers’ problems, and possibly change the world in a big way.The best entrepreneur, therefore, has a healthy confidence that “I’ll be the one person in a thousand who makes it big.”
4 Things You Can Do to Personalize Your Brand Like the Celebs
Between Google and social media, it’s become simultaneously easier and more difficult than ever to maintain your brand image. With a few keystrokes, anyone can learn just about anything about you. On the other hand, if you can cultivate what your audience will find, you can influence your brand image and how others perceive you.
12 Affirmations For The Struggling Entrepreneur
December 15, 2014, LinkedIn Articles Entrepreneurs are an optimistic lot. Naysayers might say “naïve.” But they have to be.
How to Create Your Own Industry to Fit Your Strengths
By leveraging my core strengths and skills and combining my backgrounds in entertainment and tech, I’ve molded my own brand and carved a unique career path for myself. Having been a talent producer for award shows, cause concerts, and celebrity fundraising events for three decades, I’ve developed a very large network, connecting musicians, actors, comedians, and tech innovators with the corporate world to create performances and campaigns.
How Writing a Book Can Advance Your Career
December 12, 2014, Inc. A book can be a powerful tool for advancing your career and establishing yourself as a brand and as an industry leader. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/why-or-how-writing-a-book-can-advance-your-career.html
The 4 Most Important Reasons You Need to Become a Mentor
When you decide to mentor someone, you really have no way of knowing how far she’ll go. Whether you shape the next great entrepreneur of our time or help someone achieve her dreams, you’ll make a difference–and that’s all that matters.
Ann Wilson
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-ann-wilson-of-heart
5 Reasons Developing Confidence Is Critical to Your Success
December 5, 2014, The Huffington Post Confidence is essential to your success and that of your business — in fact, it’s vital to everything you do in life. Read the entire article here: https://www.ellevatenetwork.com/articles/5870-5-reasons-developing-confidence-is-critical-to-your-success
4 Things You Can Do to Personalize Your Brand Like the Celebs
December 4, 2014, The Huffington Post Between Google and social media, it’s become simultaneously easier and more difficult than ever to maintain your brand image. Read the entire article here: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/4-things-you-can-do-to-personalize-your-brand-like-the-celebs_b_6148030
5 Simple Steps to Schedule Your Week for Business and Personal Success
December 1,2014, Inc. As an entrepreneur, attending to your work is essential for building your business. But creating a balanced life is the key to sustained success in the office and at home. Read the entire article here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/5-simple-steps-schedule-your-week-business-personal-success-richards/
5 Conversation Tools For Nurturing Your Relationship With A Mentor
We’ve all longed for a classic mentor-mentee relationship at some point in our careers. We want someone who is savvy and seasoned. We want her to provide the perfect insights and career advice that will help us reach our goals. We want someone who will guide us to our destination.
Cynthia Kersey
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-cynthia-kersey
Michael Van Himbergen
Listen to the entire podcast here: https://allaccessradio.libsyn.com/kelli-richards-interviews-michael-van-himbergen
The Secret Weapon of Billionaire CEOs and Wildly Successful People
If you’ve hit a wall, it might be time to hire a business coach. Sometimes no matter how passionate you are about your business, it takes an outsider’s perspective to see where the company is lacking and identify areas for growth. And that additional insight and shift in perspective can take moments but make a huge difference in your results and the outcome.
The 4 Most Important Reasons You Need to Become a Mentor
November 20, 2014, Inc. When you decide to mentor someone, you really have no way of knowing how far she’ll go. Whether you shape the next great entrepreneur of our time or help someone achieve her dreams, you’ll make a difference — and that’s all that matters. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/the-4-most-important-reasons-you-need-to-become-a-mentor.html
5 Conversation Tools For Nurturing Your Relationship With A Mentor
November 17, 2014, LinkedIn Articles We’ve all longed for a classic mentor-mentee relationship at some point in our careers.
The Ultimate Entrepreneur Pep Talk: 4 Important Affirmations for Any Innovator
You were prepared for the uncertainty that comes with entrepreneurship. You braced yourself for the long workdays–and for your first business failure. You were ready for just about everything–except the inner strength it takes to be your own biggest motivator.
The Ultimate Entrepreneur Pep Talk: 4 Important Affirmations for Any Innovator
November 11, 2014, Inc. Having a list of mantras that you can pull out of your toolkit in any situation will prepare you to turn challenges into successes. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/the-ultimate-entrepreneur-pep-talk-4-important-affirmations-for-any-innovator.html
Become an Effective Delegator
Delegation doesn’t come naturally to everyone–especially workaholic entrepreneurs. Recognize your #strengths. Tackle the things you love or do very well yourself, and then #DELEGATE the duties that slow down your productivity or otherwise aren’t a good use of your talents and time. Acknowledge and reward others for their strengths. Delegating is not only a way to decrease your workload it’s a way to channel your productivity and expertise! To read https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/the-ultimate-guide-to-delegating-for-entrepreneurs-who-hate-delegating.html
How to Create Your Own Industry to Fit Your Strengths
November 7, 2014, Inc. Your new industry has to reflect you because whether you’re a “collaborator genie” or a “green-energy explorer,” you’ve got all the makings of becoming your own unique brand of superhero. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/how-to-create-your-own-industry-to-fit-your-strengths.html
The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Delegating
Is your to-do list a mile long? Do you spend your day in meetings and bring your work home with you because there aren’t enough hours in the workday? Do you feel as though the weight of the entire company is resting on your shoulders?
4 Ways to Make the Most of Your Mentor-Mentee Relationship
October 31, 2014, Inc. If you’re skeptical about why a mentor would want to partner with a mentee, it may be because you don’t have a plan in place to make it worth her while. Figure out what you have to offer your mentor, and do everything you can to provide that value. Read the entire article here: https://www.inc.com/kelli-richards/4-ways-to-make-the-most-of-your-mentor-mentee-relationship.html
Do you have a strong network, or do you just think you have a strong network?
Do you have a strong network, or do you just think you have a strong network?
Many entrepreneurs believe it’s who you know that matters, but what’s even more important is what you do with the people you know. By working to introduce and connect your connections, you can build a more lucrative network that can lead to further opportunities for you. By establishing a reputation as an effective facilitator of great relationships, you increase your chances of success.
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