2026: Wave Makers, Tide Changers: Women of Innovation and Impact
The panel discussion at the “Wave Makers, Tide Changers: Women of Innovation and Impact” event brought together three accomplished women—Ann Molloy, Gail Brenner Nastasia, and Leslie Gould—each with unique journeys of reinvention and leadership. The session was moderated by Lindsay Egan, who set a lively and supportive tone for the afternoon.
Ann Molloy shared the story of her family’s business, Ocean Crest Seafood, and its transformation into Neptune’s Harvest, a nationally distributed organic fertilizer company. She described the challenges of pivoting from traditional fish processing to creating value from byproducts, crediting her father’s vision and the family’s willingness to learn on the job. Ann emphasized the importance of using organic products, dispelling myths about their cost and effectiveness, and highlighted the company’s expansion into new products and markets. She also spoke candidly about work-life balance as a single mother, the support of her family, and the satisfaction of seeing the next generation take on leadership roles.
Gail Brenner Nastasia recounted her transition from a career in law to becoming a writer. She described a pivotal moment when she realized her purpose had shifted, leading her to focus on writing as a source of joy and connection. Gail discussed the impact of her first book, which not only allowed her to share her story but also encouraged others in her community to open up about their own experiences. She addressed themes of imposter syndrome, authenticity, and the power of transparency, noting that sharing her story brought unexpected support and a sense of belonging. Gail also touched on the challenges of balancing single parenthood, work, and personal growth, and the importance of self-care practices like meditation.
Leslie Gould, CEO of the Greater Beverly Chamber of Commerce, reflected on her career path, which began in communications and evolved through a series of serendipitous opportunities into chamber leadership. She spoke about the distinction between a job and a career, emphasizing the fulfillment she finds in building community, fostering collaboration, and helping others find their path. Leslie shared personal stories of overcoming adversity as a single mother, the critical role of support networks, and her commitment to making people feel seen and valued. She also discussed recognizing burnout, the importance of gratitude, and her excitement for new initiatives in tourism and community engagement in Beverly.
Throughout the discussion, the panelists explored topics such as the courage to change direction, the difficulty of letting go versus starting anew, and the realities of work-life balance. They offered practical advice for those feeling stuck, encouraging attendees to trust their instincts, take the first step toward change, and seek support from others. The conversation was interspersed with humor, personal anecdotes, and audience engagement, creating an atmosphere of authenticity and encouragement. The event concluded with gratitude for the community’s support, a reminder of the importance of collaboration, and an invitation to continue the conversation and networking.
