Table: A Collaborative and Trusted Workspace for the Startup Community

Since 2019, Startup Lean Coffee has brought together founders, advisors, and investors to tackle challenges and build meaningful connections. Going forward, we're now Table.

The name is easier to remember, and it carries a deeper meaning.

Life's most important moments happen at a table. We laugh and celebrate. We share wonderful news and tough challenges. We face difficult decisions with people we trust.

Throughout history, philosophers, scientists, and visionary leaders have gathered around tables to spark real progress. What makes the table special is intention: listening, contributing, and solving together.

At Table, every seat matters. Founders, advisors, experts, and investors bring diverse perspectives to build practical solutions. We share knowledge and create lasting relationships through a supportive community. There's a seat waiting for you at Table.

Register for our next event HERE. Coming soon: in-person events, a website, and so much more!

Startup Spark

“Don’t be intimidated by what you don’t know. That can be your greatest strength.” – Sara Blakely

Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, exemplifies quiet effectiveness. A self-described introvert, she values genuine conversation over crowds and credits her success to listening deeply to customers and colleagues. 

Rather than seeking the spotlight, Blakely focused on purpose: improving women's comfort and confidence. She shaped a culture where employees felt supported and valued, transforming an idea born in her apartment into a global brand. Her empathy and intentional communication helped her overcome rejection and build trust with buyers, investors, and partners.

Blakely also embodies the introverted founder's instinct to work deeply and independently. She spent two years perfecting the Spanx prototype, filing her own patent, and designing packaging before launch. This preparation let her act quickly when opportunity struck—Oprah Winfrey's endorsement. Spanx reached $4 million in revenue in its first year and $10 million the next, eventually making her the world's youngest self-made female billionaire.

Effective leadership doesn’t depend on being loud. Blakely’s calm focus and sincere connections inspire lasting trust and growth.

This excerpt is from Silent Strength: The Introvert’s Guide to Building Successful Startups, due out December 4, 2025. You can pre-order the eBook here, and it will be auto-delivered on release day. A paperback version is coming soon, too. 

Withum: Advisory, Tax, and Audit Services [Sponsor]

Withum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm committed to helping our clients be more profitable, efficient, and productive in today's complex business environment. We provide the industry expertise and innovative solutions you need to Be in a Position of Strength^SM. Get to know us at www.withum.com.

Withum is kindly sponsoring our upcoming event, Automation and AI in the Finance Tech Stack, on November 12, 6-8 PM, in NYC's Flatiron District.