How Coffee Turned into a Movement: The Story Behind The Elevated Exchange

Some of the most powerful ideas begin over coffee, and that’s exactly how The Elevated Exchange was born.

Melissa Hoffman and I first connected like many women do: through shared passions, curiosity, and a deep desire to do meaningful work in the world. Over coffee one day, what started as a simple conversation turned into a spark of inspiration. We’d both attended our fair share of networking events...some helpful, some... less than inspiring. While there’s nothing wrong with structure or strategy, we found ourselves craving something more.

More realness. More connection. More community. And a whole lot less corporate energy and competitive pressure.

We envisioned a space where women could show up as they are, not just as their titles or brands. A space where collaboration replaced comparison, and where empowerment didn’t come from hierarchy, but from honesty, support, and shared wisdom.

And so, over that coffee, the idea for The Elevated Exchange was born.

The Elevated Exchange isn’t your typical networking group. There are no stuffy intros, forced pitches, or rigid formats. Instead, we focus on genuine connection, thoughtful conversation, and real support. We believe that business grows best when women feel safe to be themselves, to be seen, and to be celebrated, not sized up.

Melissa and I are actually in similar fields, something that might cause awkwardness or competition in a traditional networking space. But for us, it’s proof of our mission: there’s room for all of us. In fact, our friendship and collaboration have only strengthened our individual gifts. We’re walking examples of what happens when women lift each other up rather than play small to avoid stepping on toes.

We created The Elevated Exchange as a gathering ground for women who want to grow personally and professionally in a space that values authenticity over ego and empowerment over performance.

This isn’t about who can speak the loudest or sell the fastest—it’s about slowing down, showing up, and exchanging ideas, energy, and encouragement.

We’re just getting started—but the response so far tells us we’re onto something that women have been waiting for.

We hope you’ll join us.

Let’s elevate together!

The Elevated Exchange