Haley Forest

Connector of Dots at HCForest

Member since October 2024

Innovation

Education: San Francisco State University - William James College, Hult International Business School
Boston, MA, USA

Biography

I’m Haley Forest, an innovation strategist, leadership psychology researcher, and founder of HCForest. I’ve had the privilege of working with companies—ranging from scrappy startups to global enterprises—helping them unlock creative potential, drive sustainable growth, and solve complex challenges. With an MBA, international marketing expertise, and experience growing a startup from launch to acquisition, I love sharing practical insights and transformative ideas wherever I go.

Passion

I’m passionate about creativity, behavioral science, and empowering teams to break free from the expected. There’s nothing better than seeing people surprise themselves—whether it’s through a breakthrough idea, a creative solution, or unexpected personal growth. I’m also happiest when I’m learning something new, making meaningful connections, or fostering neonate kittens (because who doesn’t love tiny paws and purrs?). For me, small moments of care—whether for people or animals—make a big difference in the world.

Origin Story

My journey started in an unexpected place—running restaurants and theaters, where I learned firsthand how to solve problems creatively while juggling competing priorities. Those experiences shaped my love for human behavior, teamwork, and the magic of creating moments that surprise and delight people. Eventually, I pursued an MBA, a Master’s in International Marketing, and dove into advanced research with a doctorate in Leadership Psychology to better understand what drives both people and organizations.

The pivotal moment in my career came when I was the first employee at a startup and led it from country launch to acquisition. Through that experience, I realized my passion lies in helping businesses embrace sustainable innovation and empowering individuals to tap into their creative potential. Today, I combine my love for behavioral science, strategy, and leadership to inspire people and organizations to stay curious, solve complex challenges, and create lasting, positive change.

Topics/Keywords

innovation creativity improving innovation and creativity team leadership team building neuroscience psychology design thinking product innovation business strategy startups learning and development brand development brand strategy neuropsychology systems thinking and change trends future collaboration
I am willing to travel more than 100 miles
Yes
Everything is negotiable

Origin Story

My journey started in an unexpected place—running restaurants and theaters, where I learned firsthand how to solve problems creatively while juggling competing priorities. Those experiences shaped my love for human behavior, teamwork, and the magic of creating moments that surprise and delight people. Eventually, I pursued an MBA, a Master’s in International Marketing, and dove into advanced research with a doctorate in Leadership Psychology to better understand what drives both people and organizations.

The pivotal moment in my career came when I was the first employee at a startup and led it from country launch to acquisition. Through that experience, I realized my passion lies in helping businesses embrace sustainable innovation and empowering individuals to tap into their creative potential. Today, I combine my love for behavioral science, strategy, and leadership to inspire people and organizations to stay curious, solve complex challenges, and create lasting, positive change.

I am willing to travel more than 100 miles
Yes
Everything is negotiable

Topics/Keywords

innovation creativity improving innovation and creativity team leadership team building neuroscience psychology design thinking product innovation business strategy startups learning and development brand development brand strategy neuropsychology systems thinking and change trends future collaboration