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Chat with 1,863 fellow Hudson Valley creators, professionals, and small business owners

See how people are using our Slack community to ask questions, share opportunities, find work, and make friends. Below is the full archive of content from three of our most active channels:

May 1, 2025
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 11:13 AM
I always say it's north of the southernmost Stewart's haha
Tara Latorre
Tara Latorre 1:27 PM
May 2025 - Tara’s Call Sheet

Networking Is A Challenge
Let’s be honest, networking can be uncomfortable. Walking into a room full of strangers, making small talk, wondering if you belong? It’s a lot. That used to be me. It still is sometimes.

But connection is the heartbeat of this industry. And even if it feels awkward, showing up opens the door to real opportunities—collaborators, gigs, community. So here’s something to try this month.

READ MORE: https://taralatorre.substack.com/p/may-2025-monthly-call-sheet
Monique
Monique 6:59 PM
📣 Small Business Owners & Solopreneurs!
Is social media making you want to scream into the void? 😩

Let’s fix that with the Stress-Less Social Media class.
Join us Thursday, May 8 | 10am–12pm | Online

We’re breaking down social media marketing in a way that feels doable — not draining. You’ll walk away with:
✔️ A simple system for planning + creating content
✔️ How to choose the right platforms
✔️ Hashtag strategy that actually works

Because let’s be real — you don’t have time to be stuck in the social media spiral.

:computer: Register now: MAPSolutionsGroup.com/classes
May 2, 2025
danny
danny 8:08 AM
@Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) Stewarts heatmap
May 4, 2025
Paul Thomas
Paul Thomas 3:25 PM
Hello Hudson Valley friends.

I have two complete SuperCabinet indoor cannabis/vegetable growing systems (one 5 footer with cloning chamber and a three footer) that I no longer use. Lights, hydroponic, CO2 meter, bowl trimmers, tents, inline ventilation--the whole kit and kaboodle.

I don't want to completely give it away--it's over $5K of equipment--but I'll sell it for a pittance. I want it to find a good home, and I also need space in my basement. Everything is included; I'm not selling individual items.

Please call or text me at <tel:+19173593337|+1-917-359-3337> with questions or to request photos. I'll try to check in here too, but I don't use Slack for anything else and easily miss things that are sent to me here.

Hope you have a great weekend and have a great weekend ahead!

Paul
May 5, 2025
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 4:25 PM
Hey folks, our friends at Barnfox (who hosted our most recent meetup) are offering a discount for the ConnectHV community:
• One free month on a two-month commitment for any of the monthly memberships
• ConnectHV-exclusive discounts on yearly memberships and offices
If you're interested, DM @clarissa.deng for details!
May 6, 2025
ginacmccann
ginacmccann 10:02 AM
Hi everyone! Just added @jacintakroner to the group who is an exceptional bookkeeper and freelance HR manager based here in Poughkeepsie. Definitely highly recommend outsourcing your books to her after seeing how incredibly she handled the very complex books and HR arrangements at Poughkeepsie Farm Project (including workers comp, negotiating terms with vendors, etc.). If your business or organization is looking for help, definitely DM her!
May 7, 2025
John Burton
John Burton 12:53 PM
Hi all! Home From Here is the Hudson Valley's best Podcast Advertising Opportunity. The show is beloved, popular, frequent (that's important) and AFFORDABLE. We can do complete production for you, live reads, and our packages are customizable so you aren't making a long term commitment. Podcast advertising has already proven itself, regional podcast advertising has already proven itself, and the show is the best opportunity in the Hudson Valley. You can DM me if you want, or email me at <mailto:[email protected]|[email protected]> (we are gonna wind up emailing anyway) or call the studio at <tel:9144858100|(914) 485-8100>. Looking forward to working with you!
May 8, 2025
smarnett
smarnett 9:48 AM
Join us for a drink and a tasty light bite, while experiencing our new immersive theater venue and art gallery, located at 139 Main Street in Beacon. We will be celebrating our grand opening with clowns, music, artists, freaks, friends, and more. We open Friday, May 9th from 5pm - 10pm and Saturday, May 10th from 10am - 8pm.
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 12:07 PM
:mario-question: Thursday question time!

1. Do you work remotely, in-person elsewhere (like NYC), or in-person locally?
2. What’s the biggest benefit and biggest challenge with your current work arrangement?
May 9, 2025
Dennis Crowley
Dennis Crowley 10:12 AM
Hey hey - any tech experts here skilled in the art of email headers/specifically for Substack?
&gt; We’re looking for someone to kick the tires on our tech stack after figuring out this week that we hadn’t set up some email authentication protocols like we should have.
Tara Latorre
Tara Latorre 11:09 AM
People think networking is about collecting business cards. But the truth? It’s about building real relationships that create ripples of opportunity, for me and for the people I meet.

From mixers to coffee/tea chats to full-on collaborations, I’ve seen firsthand how showing up and following up can spark lasting creative partnerships.

New Call Sheet is up: I’m sharing some of my favorite stories from The Mashup, Connect.HV, and how one conversation can lead to award nominations, booked gigs, and new friendships.

https://open.substack.com/pub/taralatorre/p/more-events-to-make-it-work
May 12, 2025
andy151
andy151 3:35 PM
Ayo Team! Thanks @natemars and @Erika Wei for the invite! It's much cozier over here than the other slack forums I lurk on. Felt cute, might delete later, I dunno.
May 13, 2025
Katy Mejia
Katy Mejia 2:16 PM
Hi all! Just joined the slack channel. Shout out to Jordan for this interview of HV's own Actor/Activist Thomas Sodoski (republished with his permission). Just thought I'd share here. Trolling a bit for the most part but enjoying the ConnectHV slack channel!
Brooke Builds Wealth
Brooke Builds Wealth 5:14 PM
Joined today and just wanted to say hi! I run an online business mostly on my own and it can get pretty lonely. Excited to branch out and connect with many of you here 💗
I also have never used slack but it seems awesome! Open to your slack-etiquette tips. Thinking about creating a server to connect with my online community!
mjsubey
mjsubey 5:52 PM
Hi all! Just wanted to say hello as well - I joined a few weeks ago but have simply been lurking until now. Born &amp; raised HV native who recently made the tough but much-needed decision to step away from healthcare PR agency life and pivot my career. Hoping to channel my skills elsewhere, maybe even combine it with my love for the Hudson Valley. That said, I’m looking forward to branching out and connecting with some of you either virtually or in person at some point! And if you need a PR person, or just someone who is detailed oriented and a strong project manager, let me know 😊
May 14, 2025
Joe Sciabica
Joe Sciabica 1:54 PM
Hello all...does anyone here like their accountant enough to recommend him/her? If so, would you be open to make an introduction? I'm looking for someone geographically local to Beacon. Thanks!
May 17, 2025
Nicola Beus
Nicola Beus 5:54 PM
Hi all, I’m a photographer and software engineer with a background in the film industry. I currently work for a media/travel community company. Looking forward to connecting!

Does anyone know of any co-working/creative spaces that have a sound booth room for recording a podcast?
May 20, 2025
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 8:30 AM
Hey everyone, the next ConnectHV meetup is tomorrow at 6pm in Kingston! Tickets &amp; food &amp; drinks are free, but please RSVP so we know how many to expect: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/may-meetup-ginger-winn-concert-in-kingston-tickets-1298106013029?aff=oddtdtcreator

In addition to our usual meetup stuff, there will be a performance by the extraordinary @Ginger Winn, whose sophomore album is coming out next month!

We're on track to break our record for most RSVPs... get on the list today!
Eli Walker
Eli Walker 9:55 AM
Hey all,

First off, thanks to those who offered great wine sponsor recs for my upcoming event series in NYC. I've now secured 3 sponsors, so I'm all covered:)

Related, for those who still spend time in the city and/or have friends in NYC who might be into this kind of thing, this weekend we're launching my social wellness brand's newest rooftop Drunk Yoga® series, popping up every Saturday through October.

Fun (sad?) fact, in 2017, Refinery29 called Drunk Yoga® "A fitting response to these times," which is even more relevant today. More details below--feel free to spread the word! :hearthands:

Event Description:

The original yoga party is BACK for a limited time at Nomadworks' rooftop in the heart of Manhattan! Join some of Drunk Yoga®'s most seasoned instructors for this one-of-a-kind social wellness experience where you'll:

Enjoy a beginner-friendly yoga experience with glass-in-hand…(either wine or Olipop soda for non-drinkers!)
Play interactive drinking games that break the ice and build community
Connect with like-minded fun-seekers in a judgment-free zone

When: Every Saturday starting May 24th - Oct. 18th from 12-1:30pm
Where: Nomadworks rooftop in NoMad, NYC
What to bring: Yoga mat + clothes you can move in
Ticket Price: $39 (includes 2 drinks!)

https://bucketlisters.com/experience/drunk-yoga-series
Zack DeMinno
Zack DeMinno 12:45 PM
Hi everyone! 👋 I’m excited to be here and looking forward to connecting with you all. I run a tax and accounting firm that specializes in small businesses, particularly around the Hudson Valley. If you ever have questions about bookkeeping, taxes, or anything accounting/finance-related, feel free to DM me — I genuinely love helping small businesses succeed. Looking forward to learning from and contributing to this awesome community!
May 22, 2025
contact455
contact455 8:59 AM
Hello Everyone! I'd like to introduce myself, I joined the slack last night at the ConnectHV event. My name is Anna Gilmore and I am a motion designer. I make advertisements, music videos, explainer videos and a bunch of other creative work. If you'd like you can see some of my work and demo reel at https://annacgilmore.com I look forward to being part of such a great network of people!
Banu Akman
Banu Akman 9:48 AM
Hey friends! 👋
Beacon Bonfire Music + Art Festival 2025 artist submissions are now open!

If you’re a musician, visual artist, performer, or someone with a wild creative idea, we’d love to hear from you.
The festival kicks off November 5 with satellite art events during the week, and the main celebration runs November 8–9 — a full weekend of music, art, and community magic. We’re looking for all kinds of work, from quiet to loud, polished to playful.

Here’s the link to submit: https://beaconbonfire.com/2025-artist-intake/

Feel free to share with friends & fellow artists! 🔥
angel
angel 9:51 AM
David Bello
David Bello 4:46 PM
Hey everyone, I'm David I run a tech company that safeguards your online reputation. If you've ever worried about how a tweet or post might come back to haunt you, you're not alone. SenOst is built for people who care about the implications of what they share online, whether you're a public figure, brand, or just someone who doesn’t want to be the next cautionary tale.

In an age where a single post can ruin reputations, derail careers, or damage trust, SenOst flags potentially offensive or contextually problematic language before it becomes a problem.
It’s a tool for those who understand that what you say online can echo for years and want to stay ahead of the fallout.

https://www.senost.com/
May 23, 2025
Robin Fischman
Robin Fischman 9:57 AM
Hello all, I’m reintroducing myself. I’m Robin Fischman. I work with creatives to help them reclaim their health, connect to their Superpowers and do work they enjoy. I want creatives to feel great, have tons of energy and enjoy the work they do. I know there are a lot of creatives in this channel, some of you may be going through a transition, trying to figure out how to take care of your health and grow your business. If you want to talk, I'd love to connect. https://calendly.com/rfischman/letscatchup
May 24, 2025
Dennis Crowley
Dennis Crowley 12:38 PM
Hello friends — it’s opening night for Stockade FC ⚽ @ Dietz Stadium in Kingston. We’re playing Met Oval Academy from Queens and I bet we see close to 1000 fans tonight (!!) Kickoff 6pm, super fun for kids. Tickets at lu.ma/stockadefc ($10 adults, $5 kids). Food trucks and beer too!
May 27, 2025
Joe Sciabica
Joe Sciabica 5:01 PM
Good afternoon everyone! I'm wondering if someone(s) can help. I am looking for a small business banker/lender, as well as an attorney who specializes in structuring small business sales/purchases. Can anyone make a recommendation or two (or three)? Many thanks!
May 28, 2025
mfhubeaut
mfhubeaut 5:42 PM
Hi everyone! I’m a professional photographer with a strong background in photojournalism, documentary, and event photography. My work focuses on capturing real, compelling stories—whether through editorial assignments, community events, or personal milestones.
I’m fully bilingual (Spanish/English), based in Kingston,New York and open to travel. In addition to photography, I also bring experience in voiceover and production, which adds a multimedia edge to my storytelling.
I’m currently looking for new opportunities and collaborations. If you’re hiring or know someone looking for a dedicated, creative visual storyteller, I’d love to connect.
Feel free to reach out—thank you!

Maria Fernanda Hubeaut
Artist, Photographer, Coach
<tel:917-478-9574|917-478-9574> | <mailto:[email protected]|[email protected]>
Website: www.mariafernandahubeaut.com
May 29, 2025
Veronica Choroco
Veronica Choroco 7:07 PM
I had not idea there was such community. Yes!!!
If you don't get enough people, I would open up to AIGA Upstate NY. They have a separate Slack group. There may be some folks there too.
stephen.steve
stephen.steve 10:05 PM
Hey Nicole. I’ve worked with the friends of Figma group in NYC and would love to help get a chapter going in the Hudson Valley. Let me know how I can help. ☺️
Susan
Susan 11:41 PM
Count me in!
May 30, 2025
jr954
jr954 9:20 AM
Love it! I’m a product designer based in the beacon area
Vibes
Vibes 11:00 AM
would be epic! i'm a designer based in poughkeepsie
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 12:09 PM
I don't have bandwidth to help organize it, but I'd love for there to be a Friends of Figma group around here to attend!
Please lmk if there's anything I can do to support or get the word out
Tosin Hoskins
Tosin Hoskins 12:48 PM
Very interested in being a part of a community like this!
Melissa Esposito
Melissa Esposito 1:44 PM
Hey there! After a two-year LinkedIn hiatus (cleanse?), I’m back on the platform with a new profile and looking to make connections...
I started anew instead of reactivating as I've evolved from an e-comm agency marketing director to founder of a copywriting + marketing biz (serving industries beyond the shopping cart) for the last 2+ years (16 years exp. overall). If you’re into strategy chats, marketing tips, copywriter buddies, cawfee talks, and the occasional music-nerd sidebar, let’s connect!
May 31, 2025
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 11:58 AM
:mario-question: Would anyone be interested in a ConnectHV Job Board?
• Free for users
• Companies could list a job for some marginal fee
June 3, 2025
I'm looking for some local small businesses who are interested in co-sponsoring the June meetup; your contribution would go towards free food &amp; drink for attendees, and in exchange you'll get a shoutout at the event, on social media, here in Slack, and in the event email marketing. If you're willing to contribute $250, DM me!
You'd be joining other sponsors including NY Stage and Film, the organization that first incubated the musicals Hamilton and Hadestown. Pretty cool group to have your logo next to!
June 5, 2025
Jesse
Jesse 7:01 PM
I’m so in!
Does anyone know of any great local hair and makeup people for my magical witchy bff who’s getting married in Ellenville? Would love to make a connection!
June 11, 2025
Scott Tillitt
Scott Tillitt 8:33 AM
ANNOUNCING: HV NONPROFIT HUB
June 26 mixer + Slack community

Hello friends!

For nearly two years Beahive has been hosting nonprofit mixers every few months in Beacon, in partnership with longtime member Fund the People.

Inspired in part by conversations at those events, a few of us have been planning a nonprofit community hub initiative to better connect the regional nonprofit ecosystem across the Hudson Valley. And now we’re ready to soft launch!

INTRODUCING... HV NONPROFIT HUB

Two ways you can participate...

// Just Bea-Cause: Nonprofit Mixer / June 26 (Poughkeepsie)

• This time Beahive and Fund the People are partnering with The New York Council of Nonprofits (NYCON) — and taking it on the road to Poughkeepsie.
• Details + RSVP: https://bit.ly/bea-cause6-25
// Slack Community

• Ours is modeled a bit after this one! (Huge shout-out to @Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)!) Besides all the stuff you see here, we expect folks to use ours to also exchange innovative strategies and best practices in the nonprofit/funding/philanthropy worlds.
• You can join channels based on your interests — we’re starting simply with <#C049BN9LUFN|>, <#C06SDQ20FJN|> and <#C06S63H4LF9|> and will evolve it as needed.
• Let’s get the conversation started: https://bit.ly/HVnonprofit-slack.
Hope to see you on the 26th (or in the other Slack)!
scott.
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 9:31 AM
I have done this more times than I can count, you're in good company! 😂
Banu Akman
Banu Akman 12:58 PM
Please count me in as well ❤️
June 12, 2025
PJ Gray
PJ Gray 11:59 AM
Hi all! I am just joining here, I was active in the HV tech community way back in the day...I see some familiar names here! 👋
June 14, 2025
jess
jess 4:04 PM
Hi everyone! I’m new to the community and excited to connect with more business owners here in the Hudson Valley. I’ve been a website designer for 10 years and also specialize in brand strategy for small businesses.

Right now, I’m running a giveaway specifically for wellness and creative service-based businesses in the Hudson Valley!

Giveaway includes:
• 3-page website
• Brand package
• Website copywriting support
• 1-hour photo shoot at This Hudson Studio with photographer Nina Marin
The giveaway closes Monday, June 16th. You can enter over on my Instagram: @setinsimple. Best of luck!

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKfKa5Axe_M/?igsh=MW1qeXA5dTQ4eWlsMw==

Join the conversation

Ready to join the conversation? Enter the Slack community below.

What is Slack?

Slack is a chat platform, similar to Discord or Microsoft Teams or old-school IRC. It's meant to be used by businesses for team communication, but we're using it as a community platform. We picked Slack by popular request and it's worked out pretty well so far.

What's the difference between the Slack and the directory?

The directory allows you to showcase your work and find local creatives and professionals. The Slack is a chat platform for the community with active conversation happening all the time. They complement each other, and both are useful!

Why should I join?

Over 1,800 local creatives and professionals are in the group, connecting with each other and sharing opportunities. People are finding work, hiring locally, sharing resources, launching new projects, and generally being a community that's authentic and human rather than the opposite.

What's the vibe?

Conversation in the Slack is casual and human. There are lots of people introducing themselves, asking for recommendations, hiring people and sharing that they're ready to be hired, and announcing new events or projects. (And it's totally fine to just lurk, too!)