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Interview with Leah Smolensky, Founder of Drenchbar

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9 months ago

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Interview with Leah Smolensky, Founder of Drenchbar

Leah is a veteran advertising executive who knows how to build brands. During her 19 years in advertising Leah has worked on iconic brands like Nike, Miller Coors, Mars, Champion, 2K Sports, E!, HBO, SC Johnson, Bugaboo, Microsoft, and more. Her work has won awards and accreditations from the Effies, the FWA, and Contagious Magazine. She currently leads Integration Strategy at an international ad agency and runs her own business. Leah founded drenchbar, a new brand shaking up the lotion aisle, in 2022 and is acting CEO.

Leah started her career in product development at Paris Presents where she worked on brands such as Joe Boxer and Raz, and designed concepts for new product lines, which resulted in the national launch of 36 new product items at mass merchandisers such as Target, Kmart and Boots London

Leah lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In her spare time she enjoys time outdoors, coloring with her kids, tending for her plants and running.

Where did the idea for Drenchbar come from?

A google search. I hated putting on lotion, and so did my children. But, living in the desert, I also hated how dry and uncomfortable my skin felt when I neglected to moisturize. So, I searched online for “a lotion for people who hate lotion,” to try to find a better product. What I found was a community of people across Reddit, TikTok, and Instagram who were dissatisfied with the category. They found bottled lotion to be cold, sticky, and uncomfortable, and lotion bars to be hard to apply and not hydrating. And overall, there was a lack of products that served sensitive skin. I wanted to create a better option that had the eco benefits of a bar form, the skincare and hydrating benefits of bottled lotion, the in-shower experience of wet-skin moisturizers and designed for sensitive skin first. That is what inspired drenchbar.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

My days are packed. I am a mother, entrepreneur, and by day I lead a large team at an international ad agency. I aim to always start my days with a glass of water and movement. While I work out, I listen to podcasts. Then I use my shower to organize and plan my day and to do list. I have a 15-minute open call with the drenchbar team to reviews goals for the day and answer any questions. I catch up on emails, knock easy tasks off my list, and then see my girls off to school. After that I head to my day job, which is typically filled with meetings, presentations, deep work, and connecting with my team. After I wrap up with the agency, I pack in some work for drenchbar– planning content and marketing initiatives, forecasting, testing our new innovations, or connecting with our formulator. I always break to recharge with my children and prepare dinner with my husband. After I put the kids to sleep, I often do more work and then close my day out. It’s hard for me not to have productive days, my focus is to build in time to recharge and be mindful.

How do you bring ideas to life?

In a word, mindset. Adopting the right mindset at every stage of the process is key to getting new ideas off the ground. First, I make space for ideas to happen. My best ideas do not come from sitting in front of a screen or in a board room. They come when I’m running, showering, painting with my children, traveling, chatting with my husband or friends. I do not look at those parts of my day, my life, as frivolous or optional. I know that they are necessary to my work. Then, when it comes time to bring the idea to life, it’s about a mindset of mental toughness. There will always be challenges along the way. I do not expect things to be easy, so I tell myself every day, “I can do hard things.” And that self-belief is what helps me cross the finish line.

What’s one trend that excites you?

The evolving definition of wellness.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

Taking advantage of even the small moments. If I have just 10 minutes, I see that as an opportunity to start, or even finish, something. To move my body, respond to emails, start prepping dinner, start a deck. I make use of any time in my day. I do not limit myself based on minutes on the clock. And I try to never just sit and stare at a screen. I f I don’t know where to begin, I start typing or walking or anything else.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Mistakes are part of the process. They get you to where you want to be. Don’t dwell in remorse, and don’t aim to never make mistakes. Learn, grow, and pick yourself up again. If I had a redo, I would do it all the same. Because that is what got me here.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.

Being a mother makes you better at your career. The pervasive narrative is that you must sacrifice when you become a mother. That careers take a back seat, they suffer. I am not here to tell you that being a mother and a career woman is easy in our society. It’s not. However, what nobody discusses is how much better at your job motherhood makes you.\

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

Ask for input. It’s so easy to fall in love with your own ideas when you invest that much time and energy into them. But when we become too attached, we become vulnerable to blind spots. I ask for input at every turn. Every day, on even seemingly mundane decisions. I like to get a diverse perspective from customers, strangers, peers, friends, you name it. Input is my strength, and I put it to work for me relentlessly.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

Act like a David, dream like a Goliath. As a self-funded startup, adopting a challenger brand mindset has been key to our growth. We do things differently because we have to. We spend a lot of time building our community and having 1-1 conversations with our fans. We send a lot of samples to dermatologists, editors, skincare influencers, and fans with zero expectation of coverage. We’re looking for input. It’s very important to us that only those who love the product post about it. As a result, we’ve built great relationships, learned invaluable insights, and gotten a ton of word of mouth from influential sources.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

Our initial test production run with our co-packer was a failure. We failed to see some of the logistical challenges a larger run would create, even just at a test run, and it impacted the aesthetics of some of the bars. We overcame it with collaboration and imagination. My formulator, co-packer and I were able to pinpoint exactly where the breakdown was, and course correct for future runs. And I help on the imperfect bars and sold them at a discount during out of stock moments to drive more desire on social media.

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

A mommy and me wellness space. A multi-functional space that helps mom shut off their ongoing to-do and have mindful time with their children. Could include things like self-care services for kids and their guardians, yoga, cooking, and a play space for when the kids are done.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

An art cart for my children. It’s a three-tiered rolling cart that stores all their art supplies. Having it out in the open has been a game changer. We now like to draw or paint together on Saturday mornings. This time together is sacred, and it’s how I practice my mindfulness.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive?

I am super old school. Hand-written notes and to-do lists are the only tool I need to stay productive.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

“How Brands Grow,” by Byron Sharp. This seminal reading in the world of marketing is backed by decades of effectiveness research. It’s a must-read if you’re trying to build and grow a brand.

What is your favorite quote?

A man who views the world the same at fifty as he did at 20 has wasted thirty years of his life – Mohammad Ali

Key Learnings:

  • Adopt a mindset of relentless self-belief. Know challenges will happen but believe in yourself and your ability to grow from them and overcome them.
  • Embrace the small in-between moments to turbocharge productivity. Never underestimate how much you can get done in 10 minutes.
  • Reframe the way you look at recharge time. Prioritize time to run, shower, play, walk, etc. as that is where the best ideas happen.
  • Asking for help is a superpower, not a weakness. Learn to know when and how to ask for input and support.
Originally published on IdeaMensch.
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Exclusive Interview with The NET ZERO ENERGY Buildings Expert Anastasia Makarska: Shaping a Greener Future

Published

4 months ago

on

June 3, 2023

By

Anastasia Makarska

Welcome to an exclusive interview with Anastasia Makarska, a renowned figure in the world of commercial real estate development. Anastasia’s resolute commitment to sustainability and her unique background in physics and engineering have revolutionized the real estate landscape, transforming spaces into sustainable and coveted marvels. 

In this interview, we delve into the concept of Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) and the challenges associated with building codes for NZEB. Join us as we explore the visionary force behind Anastasia’s remarkable projects and her dedication to shaping a greener future.

Anastasia, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start by discussing the concept of Net Zero Energy Buildings. Could you explain to our audience what exactly is meant by a Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB)?

Anastasia: Certainly. A Net Zero Energy Building, or NZEB, is an approach to construction that focuses on creating energy-efficient buildings that are connected to the power grid while also generating renewable energy to offset their energy consumption. The aim is to achieve a balance where the amount of renewable energy produced either on-site or nearby matches or exceeds the building’s annual energy needs, resulting in virtually no net energy consumption.

That’s fascinating. It’s clear that NZEBs hold tremendous potential in terms of sustainability. How are developers and building owners embracing this concept, and what are some innovative features we can find in NZEBs?

Anastasia: Developers and building owners are increasingly interested in constructing zero energy buildings, driven by corporate objectives and regulatory requirements. The building and design community is actively embracing this challenge and leading the way with innovative and forward-thinking projects.

NZEBs incorporate a wide range of energy-efficient strategies, from simple to highly intricate. These include maximizing the utilization of passive solar heat gain and shading, integrating high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, appliances, windows, and doors, enhancing insulation, natural ventilation, air sealing, and incorporating advanced renewable energy solutions like solar photovoltaics and geothermal energy systems. 

The goal is to create buildings that regulate temperature fluctuations, minimize energy consumption, and reduce environmental impact.

It’s impressive how NZEBs combine various technologies and strategies to achieve sustainability. Now, let’s delve into building codes. What role do building codes play in the construction of NZEBs, and what codes and standards exist for this purpose?

Anastasia: Building codes play a crucial role in guiding the construction of net zero energy buildings. Currently, there are codes and standards in place to assist designers, architects, builders, and contractors in creating more energy-efficient and sustainable structures compared to previous years.

In the United States, professionals in the building industry can refer to the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which has been adopted in approximately 44 states and territories. Across North America, ASHRAE 90.1 provides significant guidance, and the International Green Construction Code (IgCC) serves as another valuable resource. In Canada, there are the National Energy Code of Canada (NECC) and the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB).

That’s helpful to know. Given the increasing need for more rigorous energy and building codes, what are some of the challenges faced in developing codes specifically tailored for NZEBs?

Anastasia: The development of codes specifically tailored for NZEBs faces several challenges. As industry professionals and officials work on designing new codes to facilitate the transition to net zero energy, there is still no consensus on the structure of the code, its comprehensive scope, and ensuring that buildings achieve net zero energy status throughout their lifecycle.

To ensure buildings perform as intended, it is essential to establish post-construction reporting, analysis, and a framework for oversight and enforcement. 

Current codes and standards often rely on energy proxies without a requirement for actual quantification of energy usage. There are also gaps in the inclusion of certain types of energy usage in calculations. 

To achieve the goal of net zero energy buildings, methodologies need to evolve, modeling capabilities should be enhanced, and real-world outcomes must be measured.

Overcoming those challenges will be crucial for the success of NZEBs. Could you tell us about the advantages that net zero energy buildings offer to building owners, occupants, and the environment?

Anastasia: Absolutely. Net zero energy buildings provide several advantages. Buildings account for a significant portion of fossil fuel energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. By increasing the number of net zero energy buildings, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and effectively lower carbon emissions.

Some key advantages of NZEBs include protection for building owners against future energy price hikes, enhanced occupant comfort, health, well-being, and productivity, reduction in energy consumption and associated costs, improved reliability of energy supply, increased resale value due to high demand for net zero buildings, contribution towards achieving zero energy targets, and minimized environmental impact. These advantages create value for building owners, occupants, and the planet.

Those advantages make a compelling case for embracing net zero energy buildings. As a visionary force in real estate development, how do you see the future of NZEBs and their potential impact on communities and the environment?

Anastasia: I believe the future of net zero energy buildings is incredibly promising. As awareness of the need for sustainability grows, NZEBs will become the norm rather than the exception. They have the potential to reshape communities and serve as catalysts for positive change.

Net zero energy buildings can create vibrant, sustainable communities that prioritize the well-being of both residents and businesses. By reducing energy consumption, minimizing environmental impact, and offering enhanced comfort and productivity, NZEBs have a transformative effect on the communities they serve. They not only contribute to the preservation of our planet but also provide value for investors, businesses, and communities alike.

Thank you for sharing your insights, Anastasia. Before we conclude, could you tell our audience about any upcoming projects or initiatives that you’re particularly excited about in the realm of net zero energy buildings?

Anastasia: Certainly. I’m thrilled to be working on a groundbreaking project that aims to create a net zero energy residential community. This community will embody the principles of sustainable living and showcase the potential of NZEBs on a larger scale. It will integrate cutting-edge technologies, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials to provide residents with an exceptional living experience while minimizing the community’s environmental footprint. I believe this project will serve as a blueprint for future developments and inspire others to embrace the vision of net zero energy living.

Conclusion

As we conclude this insightful interview with Anastasia Makarska, it is evident that she is a visionary force transforming the real estate industry through sustainable development. Anastasia’s dedication to creating sustainable and desirable spaces, her commitment to excellence, and her unwavering belief in the power of net zero energy buildings have positioned her as a leading authority in commercial real estate.

Through her innovative projects and expertise, Anastasia is shaping the world we live in, one groundbreaking project at a time. Her visionary approach, fueled by her unique background in physics and engineering, has redefined the boundaries of commercial real estate development and paved the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Witness the remarkable journey of Anastasia Makarska as she continues to revolutionize the real estate landscape and leave an indelible mark on the communities she transforms into sustainable and coveted marvels.

If you would like to get in touch with Anastasia Makarska you can contact here

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From a Small AC Repair Company to a Household Name in Austin TX

Published

4 months ago

on

May 18, 2023

By

AC Repair Austin

The Success Story of Grande Air Solutions

What makes a successful company?

Well, while there is no one secret alone that can make you a success in the business world, the story of determined employees and aspiring entrepreneurs shed light on what makes a business thrive. Grande Air Solutions was established in 2011 by young, honest entrepreneurs Isael Garcia and Petra Lugo. They are both described as honest entrepreneurs ready to take on any challenge, which is what drove them to make this company a success. You’ll be able to find Isael and Petra engaging regularly with their customers and employees. As both will tell you, honesty is the first and foremost important feature to have in a company. Customers look for honesty in an AC repair Austin team when they’re looking to spend their money on a service. Whether the customer needs a new HVAC system or AC repair, they want to make sure that they’re getting their money’s worth.

Grande Air Solutions | Best Austin Heating And Air Company

Reliable and Affordability Make a Difference

Another key aspect that can take an HVAC company from a small-sized business to a household name is reliability. It can be a distressing situation when the AC breaks down in the middle of a hot summer day. The homeowner does not want to wait for hours on end waiting for the technician to arrive at their home. An HVAC company like Grande Air Solutions that is known for reliability will always be there for their customers, especially if it’s an HVAC emergency. Along with reliability, affordable prices are other factors that can make any company a success if it’s done right. This is where Grande Air Solutions shines as well. They offer their services along with affordable prices for all customers.

Building a Solid Reputation

How do you stand out from the rest of the competition?

It can be difficult to achieve a level of uniqueness among your competitors. However, this is where this company has also succeeded when it comes to Austin heating and air services. Building a solid reputation for years has propelled Grande Air Solutions from a small AC repair company to the well-known, trusted name it is today within the Austin area. The company has been able to deliver high-quality service to its customers, which has resulted in returning customers. This is also known as customer loyalty. The business has many five-star reviews, which potential customers look for in an HVAC company. Isael and Petra envisioned a company that carries the type of professionalism and friendly service that has exceeded the expectations of many of the company’s customers. In a nutshell, the entire team of employees are the ones who have helped build a respectable reputation for Grande Air Solutions.

Trusted and Trained Technicians

A company is only as good as its members. Another reason why this HVAC company has excelled in every aspect of the business is the team. The company’s technicians are well-trained and experienced in the HVAC field. When the technician arrives to fix or install the HVAC system, the customer knows exactly what they’ll be getting. The homeowner will always get quality service because it’s the results that speak volumes. Grande Air Solutions hires technicians who are experienced in the field and properly trained. Having the proper credentials also essential for any successful HVAC company to have, such as certifications and proper licensing. 

Connecting With the Community

Starting from a small, humble HVAC company, Grande Air Solutions has been able to grow significantly thanks to the help of people. As a family-owned business, the company also knows the importance of closeness in the community. The company has been able to give back as much as they’ve received from their local communities. In fact, the company strives to give much more. By collaborating with local charitable organizations, they are able to offer the basic necessities of life, much-needed monetary donations, help for nonprofit organizations, and other support. Being a household name among the people holds a responsibility to provide a role model as a reliable HVAC company in all aspects, including helping the community. 

Expanding Service Areas

Although it may be difficult to expand services in the beginning as a smaller business, one of the reasons the company has been able to grow is because of its determination to expand. Now, Grande Air Solutions is proud to offer Austin heating and air services throughout more of the areas. The company has been able to offer services in Buda, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Kyle, and more, just to mention a few. All of these cities are located in Texas. Investing time and money in their employees is one reason why the company has become a household name in Austin. As the team grows, more service areas are sure to open in the future.  

Offering a Wide Range of HVAC Services

Knowing about the HVAC basics is important. However, this company has been able to expand and grow because its technicians are always learning something new in the field. As technology advances, the area of HVAC also continues to improve. This can include learning about smart thermostats, the new A2L refrigerants, and the new UV light purifiers. Whatever the case may be, the company has continued its success by offering new and improved HVAC services. The wide range of alternatives gives customers the power to choose what they want for their home.

Continuing the Success Without Letup

It can be discouraging and even disheartening when the challenge of a business gets you down. However, the key is to keep on going. Just like this company has shown continuous effort to succeed, it is vital for a business to keep on going without letup. Any business is likely to face ups and downs as they continue to expand. The important thing to keep in mind is that you are doing everything for the customer. Grande Air Solutions is an excellent example of a company that has put its customers first. It is their top priority to deliver quality AC repair, installations, and other HVAC services. Rest assured that the future looks bright for the company as it holds a special place for the residents of Austin, Texas, and nearby communities. 

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An Inside Look at One & Only Electrical Service Inc. with CEO Moshe Sabag

Published

5 months ago

on

May 7, 2023

By

An Inside Look at One & Only Electrical Service Inc. with CEO Moshe Sabag

With thousands of electrical problems solved and many years of experience, they’ve become a reliable and experienced choice for those in need of electrical solutions. In this interview, we’ll be speaking with Moshe Sabag, the CEO of One & Only Electrical Service Inc. We’ll explore the ins and outs of the electrical industry, the company’s commitment to quality service, and their approach to customer satisfaction. So, let’s dive into the world of electrical services with Moshe Sabag.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role in One & Only Electrical Service Inc.?

Moshe Sabag: My name is Moshe Sabag and I am the CEO of One & Only Electrical Service Inc. I have been in the electrical business for over a decade and have gained extensive experience and knowledge in the field. As the CEO, my role is to oversee the company’s operations and ensure that we provide top-notch service to our clients.

What inspired you to start One & Only Electrical Service Inc.?

Moshe Sabag: My passion for the electrical industry inspired me to start One & Only Electrical Service Inc. I saw a need for a reliable and affordable electrical contractor company in the Tri-Valley area and wanted to provide that service to the community.

What sets One & Only Electrical Service Inc. apart from other electrical contractors in the area?

Moshe Sabag: One & Only Electrical Service Inc. stands out from other electrical contractors in the area because of our commitment to providing exceptional service to our clients. We take pride in being the best local electrician for our clients.  We are licensed and insured, and our electricians are highly trained and experienced. We also offer a wide range of services, including EV charging station installation, smart switches ( Lutron, Brilliant, Leviton, Noon) installation, and all house rewire.

Can you tell us more about the EV charging station installation service you offer?

Moshe Sabag: We specialize in EV charging station installation and can install a charging station for any electric vehicle, including Tesla (car charger tesla ) and BMW. We also offer a range of electrical services, including recessed light installation,led light, electrical panel upgrades, and wiring repairs. We will assess your home or business and recommend the best charging station for your needs. Our electricians will install the charging station safely and efficiently, ensuring that it is up to code and functioning properly.

What is your approach to customer service?

Moshe Sabag: At One & Only Electrical Service Inc., we prioritize customer satisfaction above all else. We offer same-day service and are available 24/7 for emergencies. Our friendly and dedicated customer service representatives are always ready to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Can you share a success story from One & Only Electrical Service Inc.?

Moshe Sabag: We recently installed an EV charging station for a client who had just purchased a Tesla. They were thrilled with our service and professionalism, and have since recommended us to several of their friends and colleagues. It’s always rewarding to know that we’ve provided a valuable service to our clients and exceeded their expectations.

What kind of training and certifications do your electricians have?

Moshe Sabag: Our electricians are highly trained and experienced, and we make sure they are up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques in the industry. They are all licensed and insured, and have undergone extensive training and certification programs to ensure they are able to provide the highest quality service to our clients.

As a Bay Area electrician, what are some of the unique challenges you face when providing electrical services to your clients?

Moshe Sabag: “Being a Bay Area electrician, we face a range of challenges when providing electrical services to our clients. One of the biggest challenges is keeping up with the latest technological advancements in the field, as the Bay Area is known for its innovative and tech-driven culture.

What do you see as the future of the electrical industry?

Moshe Sabag: The electrical industry is constantly evolving, with new technology and advancements in renewable energy. As the demand for renewable energy sources increases, we will likely see a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions. We also expect to see continued growth in the EV charging station industry, as more people switch to electric vehicles.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing the electrical industry today?

Moshe Sabag: One of the biggest challenges facing the electrical industry today is the shortage of skilled labor. As the demand for electrical services continues to grow, there is a need for more qualified electricians to meet that demand. Another challenge is keeping up with the latest technology and advancements in the industry, which requires ongoing education and training.

What advice would you give to someone looking for a reliable electrician?

Moshe Sabag: When looking for a reliable electrician, it’s important to do your research and choose a licensed and insured electrical company. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients, and ask for references. It’s also important to choose a company that offers a wide range of services, so that they can address all of your electrical needs.

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