Lifestyle

Artistic Legacy in the Spotlight – The Greenspans’ Journey of Keen to be Seen

Published

2 years ago

August 21, 2023

The world of childrenswear has witnessed a transformative wave with the emergence of Keen to Be Seen. The dynamic mother-daughter duo, Lesley and Ellyn Greenspan, are at the helm of this fashion-forward endeavor. Their collective passion, creativity, and resilience have shaped this innovative brand and ignited an artistic legacy in the fashion industry.

Lesley Greenspan’s roots in the fashion world run deep. Growing up in Westchester, she was the eager apprentice to her mother, Ellyn, a successful fashion designer who managed one of the largest dress companies of her time. Ellyn, a Moore College of Art alumna, is a seasoned entrepreneur with a worldwide presence through her businesses, Cowgirls Heehaw and Bubbles Larue.

Before she embraced her role as a business owner, Lesley’s career path was as diverse as it was enriching. From internships with the renowned Elie Tahari to ventures in the food industry, Lesley’s experiences were varied and expansive. Yet, her Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) background solidified her passion for fashion.

March 2020 marked a significant turning point in Lesley’s journey. As COVID-19 gripped the globe, Lesley and Ellyn’s compassionate and entrepreneurial spirits joined forces. With a surplus of fabric and a mother’s ingenuity, they began creating masks. Their unique designs, facilitating protection and communication, rapidly gained popularity, with celebrities joining their growing customer base. This led Lesley to set up a Shopify store, skyrocketing their outreach and laying the foundation for Keen to be Seen.

Keen to be Seen operates two factories in Queens and Brooklyn, employing a dedicated team of 22 workers each. The company specializes in childrenswear denim, with a flagship product that exemplifies its commitment to innovation – the Pocket It Jacket. This unique jacket, adorned with clear pockets, allows children to showcase their personality and accomplishments, promoting self-expression and engagement. The jacket’s design was tested and loved by children with learning disabilities, reinforcing its versatility and appeal.

Lesley envisions a promising future for Keen to Be Seen, with aspirations of becoming a household name. She actively showcases her innovative products in schools, country clubs, and trade shows and remains committed to supporting various foundations. Moreover, Lesley dreams of seeing her jackets being worn in hospitals. Inspired by her mother’s pocket-ed jacket designed for an insulin pump, she believes these jackets can provide comfort and creative outlets to children undergoing treatment.

The journey of Keen to Be Seen is an artistic legacy, blending inspiration, compassion, and creativity into a brand that celebrates children and their individuality. Follow their journey on Instagram @keen_tobeseen or explore their innovative range on their website. As the spotlight shines on the Greenspans’ journey, their artistic legacy continues to inspire and evolve, just like the children they design for.

Lifestyle

Behind the Scenes: A Conversation with Derik Fay – Sharing Stages with Legends and becoming one

Published

1 week ago

March 27, 2025

Michelle Langton

In the bustling world of motivational speaking, where voices rise and inspire, one individual stands out: Derik Fay. Not just for his powerful messages, but for the remarkable journey that has placed him alongside some of the world’s most influential figures.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Derik Fay to delve into his experiences sharing stages with icons like Tony Robbins, Tim Grover, and a constellation of A list celebrity names.

“It’s been a surreal experience,” Fay began, a hint of awe still present in his voice. “To stand next to icons who have inspired millions, to witness their command of an audience, it’s a masterclass in itself.

Fay’s journey, as he describes it, is a blend of hard work, delusional confidence, genuine passion, and a relentless pursuit of connection.

“It’s not just about the name on the marquee,” he emphasized. “It’s about the shared energy, and the exchange of ideas. Whether it’s Kevin Hart’s comedic genius or Alex Rodriguez’s athletic drive, there’s something to learn from everyone I share the stage with.”

What struck me most during our conversation was Fay’s emphasis on authenticity. “I try to bring the same realness to the stage that I do in my online content,” he explained, referencing his popular Instagram reels and YouTube shorts.

“People connect with genuine emotion, with relatable stories. It’s about building a bridge, not just delivering a lecture.”

Fays direct, conversational style, which I’ve observed in his online content, and in our interview clearly translates to his live performances. “I’ve learned that vulnerability is a strength,” he shared. “Whether I’m talking about the challenges of fatherhood or the importance of emotional intelligence, I want people to walk away feeling seen and understood.”

Beyond the star-studded appearances, Fay sees his speaking engagements as a platform for positive change. “It’s about sharing insights that can make a real difference,” he told me.

“Whether it’s inspiring entrepreneurs to chase their dreams or helping individuals navigate difficult relationships, I want to leave a lasting impact.”

The lessons learned from sharing stages with these giants has undoubtedly shaped Fay’s approach. “I’ve absorbed so much from watching these masters at work,” he reflected. “It’s not just about the techniques, it’s about the passion, the commitment, the unwavering belief in the power of communication.”

As Derik Fay continues to grace stages around the globe, one thing is clear: his journey is a testament to the power of authentic connection and the enduring influence of shared experiences. And with each event, the legacy of these moments continues to grow, leaving an indelible mark on both the speaker and the audience.