In this high-energy episode of the HAYVN Hubcast, host Nancy Sheed welcomes the dynamic Penny Goffman, connector, community builder, and curator of the POWERUp Series at HAYVN. Penny shares how her lifelong gift for connection has shaped her career, and how authentic relationships are the true foundation of community and collaboration.
Key Takeaways:
Connection is a Superpower — A strategy from childhood vacations to high school leadership roles to entrepreneurial ventures, gave Penny the chance to use her natural abilities to connect with people. What sets her apart is how she’s transformed this gift into a professional strategy, building communities, creating partnerships, and curating spaces for women to thrive.
Networking Should Never Feel Like a Transaction — Penny challenges the traditional idea of networking as a numbers game or sales tactic. Instead, she models a relationship-first approach: listen more than you talk, ask questions, and stay curious. This philosophy builds trust and opens the door to lasting collaboration.
Instagram is a Great Relationship Nurturing Tool — Penny (@thatpennylife_) leverages Instagram as a natural extension of real-world interactions. She’s built entire partnerships and friendships through a thoughtful DM, a quick emoji reply, or a congratulatory comment on a story. Over time, these small, consistent interactions build a foundation for deeper conversations and business alignment.
Relationships Take Time, but They’re Worth the Investment — Penny emphasizes that strong business relationships develop gradually. Instead of rushing to collaborate, she lets synergy develop naturally. Some of her biggest partnerships have started as casual conversations and evolved over months or even years.
Everyone Can Be a Connector — While Penny’s connection skills come naturally, she believes the art of connection can be learned. Her “pro tip”? Start with a genuine desire to understand others. When you're truly listening, your brain will naturally begin connecting the dots between people, ideas, and opportunities.
The HAYVN POWERUp Series Is a Masterclass in Curated Community — POWERUp is Penny’s event series that brings together powerhouse women in a welcoming, intentional environment. It’s not about volume; it’s about quality: curated speakers, aligned sponsors, and attendees who are eager to grow personally and professionally.
You don’t need to be an extrovert to be an effective connector, you just need to be thoughtful, curious, and generous.
