Melissa's passion for retail tech sparked at 16 and never quit. With 15+ years across AX 2009, AX 2012, and D365 F&SCM, she brings deep expertise in store operations, POS, and eCommerce. Today, as Sr. Director of Strategic Growth at Sunrise Technologies, she leads events, AI implementations, and speaking engagements, and hosts Mel Minute on LinkedIn. Outside of work, she shreds bass in two rock bands, stays fueled by fitness, and loves life with her husband Mike and cat George.

Melissa's passion for retail tech sparked at 16 and never quit. With 15+ years across AX 2009, AX 2012, and D365 F&SCM, she brings deep expertise in store operations, POS, and eCommerce. Today, as Sr. Director of Strategic Growth at Sunrise Technolog... Show more

Rohit Gupta leads the product strategy for Wayfair’s GraphQL platform, powering over 200 subgraphs across customer, supplier, and supply chain domains. With 15 years of experience across engineering and product management, he brings deep expertise in platform products, APIs, and eCommerce. At Wayfair, Rohit is driving key initiatives to harness AI for accelerating developer productivity and building an AI-first Supergraph that positions the company for the AI-powered era

Rohit Gupta leads the product strategy for Wayfair’s GraphQL platform, powering over 200 subgraphs across customer, supplier, and supply chain domains. With 15 years of experience across engineering and product management, he brings deep expertise in... Show more

Jon Harmeling is a leadership speaker, Chick-fil-A Operator, and West Point graduate who helps organizations build disciplined teams, stronger leaders, and consistent execution.

As a Chick-fil-A Operator, Jon leads high-performing teams daily in one of the most respected brands in the country. His leadership is not theoretical—it’s applied in real time through hiring, developing, and managing teams responsible for delivering consistent results under pressure.

Before business ownership, Jon served as an Army officer, leading soldiers in Afghanistan and developing leadership skills in high-stakes environments where clarity, accountability, and execution were critical.

Jon combines this real-world experience with a practical, no-fluff approach to leadership. His keynotes and training sessions focus on building culture, improving accountability, and helping teams execute at a higher level.

Organizations bring Jon in when they need to strengthen leadership, improve team performance, and create a culture of disciplined execution.

Jon Harmeling is a leadership speaker, Chick-fil-A Operator, and West Point graduate who helps organizations build disciplined teams, stronger leaders, and consistent execution. As a Chick-fil-A Operator, Jon leads high-performing teams daily in o... Show more

I am SVP, IT for YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South and have over 20 years of technology experience with a focus on product development and data strategy. I am an avid speaker on the topic of usability and graph databases and author of "Practical Neo4j"

Formerly, I was VP, Knowledge Graphs at JP Morgan Chase and CEO & founder of Graph Story. I hold an B.A, M.A. and Ph.D from the University of Memphis & an M.B.A. from Christian Brothers University.

I am SVP, IT for YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South and have over 20 years of technology experience with a focus on product development and data strategy. I am an avid speaker on the topic of usability and graph databases and author of "Practical Neo4j... Show more

Joanna is an interaction designer, entrepreneur, and thought leader in human-centred technology. She is best known as the creator of Pillow Talk, the world’s first IoT product designed to help families feel emotionally connected across distance, now used in over 80 countries worldwide.

With over a decade of experience at the intersection of tech and intimacy, Joanna now runs and advises companies on designing digital products that prioritise empathy, trust, and human connection.

Known for her honest, no-fluff approach, she speaks globally on the future of emotionally intelligent tech.

Joanna is an interaction designer, entrepreneur, and thought leader in human-centred technology. She is best known as the creator of Pillow Talk, the world’s first IoT product designed to help families feel emotionally connected across distance, now ... Show more

Dino Crnalic is an entrepreneur and executive whose professional journey reflects steady progress built on discipline, patience, and responsibility. He immigrated to the United States in 1999 and began shaping his future through education and consistent effort. Adjusting to a new environment required humility and perseverance, which influenced his long-term perspective on opportunity and work. Rather than pursuing rapid recognition, he focused on learning how systems function, earning trust through dependable actions, and developing habits that support stability, accountability, and sustainable professional growth over time.

Dino completed his university education while competing as a collegiate athlete, balancing academic expectations with the structure and demands of organized sports. This stage of life requires focus, resilience, and strong time management. Daily training and competition reinforced the importance of preparation, teamwork, and composure under pressure, while academic responsibilities emphasized consistency and follow-through. These experiences helped him understand the value of shared effort and personal accountability, lessons that later shaped his approach to leadership and decision-making in professional settings.

Crnalic began his professional career in the health and fitness industry, gaining early exposure to both customer engagement and operational execution. Work in the supplement and retail environment provided practical insight into consumer education, ethical responsibility, and the importance of consistency in daily business activities. During this time, he remained personally committed to training and continued expanding his understanding of conditioning and health management. This balance between hands-on experience and continued learning helped him develop a realistic and grounded view of the industry.

Dino Crnalic later transitioned into gym ownership, operating two fitness facilities over a combined twelve-year period. These businesses grew steadily and eventually employed more than one hundred individuals across training, operations, and administrative roles. He remained directly involved in hiring, staff development, scheduling, and operational oversight. Managing teams of this size required patience, clear communication, and consistent standards, particularly during periods of growth, staffing challenges, and ongoing changes within the fitness industry.

Dino gained meaningful entrepreneurial experience through the long-term operation and expansion of these fitness businesses. The facilities served individuals with a wide range of experience levels, requiring adaptability and respect for personal goals. One location received public attention for its scale and long-term vision, reflecting careful planning rather than rushed growth. These years reinforced lessons in financial discipline, customer retention, and the importance of maintaining service quality during both stable periods and times of economic uncertainty.

Crnalic expanded his professional focus beyond gym ownership into executive leadership and capital development. He has participated in raising more than twenty million dollars in capital for business ventures, working with investors to support growth while maintaining accountability. He currently serves in a chief operating officer role in the health care sector, overseeing operational systems and contributing to organizational strategy. This position reflects years of experience managing people, processes, and long-term performance expectations with consistency and care.

Dino Crnalic maintains a regular fitness routine as part of daily life, including strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and structured conditioning. He also pursues challenging outdoor activities that require preparation, focus, and an appreciation of risk. Experiences such as deep-water scuba diving and skiing reinforce discipline and composure under demanding conditions. These activities are approached as personal practices that support balance, mental clarity, and long-term physical well-being rather than external recognition.

Dino places strong importance on family, integrity, and responsibility in both personal and professional life. He is a devoted father who prioritizes presence, guidance, and shared experiences while also caring for close family members. After experiencing the loss of his wife to severe illness in 2011, he committed time and effort to charitable support through an established organization. This period reinforced values of compassion, consistency, and long-term commitment that continue to guide his decisions and actions.

Dino Crnalic is an entrepreneur and executive whose professional journey reflects steady progress built on discipline, patience, and responsibility. He immigrated to the United States in 1999 and began shaping his future through education and consist... Show more

Denyse Drummond-Dunn is a leadership speaker, author, and former Global Head of Consumer Excellence at Nestlé.

Across 125+ markets and cross-functional environments, Denyse has worked with professionals who carry strategy into execution, often without formal authority.

Denyse teaches practical tools that turn strong work into recognised impact: decision-ready communication, stakeholder traction, and reputation-building that feels authentic.

Her sessions are known for clarity, energy, and immediate application, especially for mid-level leaders who feel overworked, overlooked, and stuck despite delivering exceptional results.

Denyse Drummond-Dunn is a leadership speaker, author, and former Global Head of Consumer Excellence at Nestlé. Across 125+ markets and cross-functional environments, Denyse has worked with professionals who carry strategy into execution, often wi... Show more

With over 20 years of experience in solution selling and channel management. Vaughan has been involved in demand and supply planning with Netstock for the last 10 years and is passionate about building strong relationships and adding value to both partners and their customers.

With over 20 years of experience in solution selling and channel management. Vaughan has been involved in demand and supply planning with Netstock for the last 10 years and is passionate about building strong relationships and adding value to both p... Show more

Kody Hartlaub is an internationally recognized performance specialist in the mental architecture of champions. He works exclusively with elite athletes, Olympic contenders, world-class competitors,
and high-performing organizations—including professional athletes on the Philadelphia Phillies, world champions pursuing their next title, Olympic-stage athletes, Division 1 programs, and corporations like L'Oréal—to unlock performance at the highest level.
In less than a decade, Kody has executed a complete program turnaround at the college level, taking a Division 3 athletic program from last place to top-tier status in under a year. He's guided a two-
time world champion through his pursuit of a third championship. He's positioned Olympic-level athletes for international competition. He's embedded himself in locker rooms and boardrooms where the margin of error is zero, and results are the only currency that matters.
His work is about diagnosis and execution. Kody identifies the psychological architecture underneath performance: the belief systems, decision-making patterns, emotional regulation, and mental discipline that separate champions from competitors. He rebuilds that architecture from the foundation up, then ensures it performs under pressure, when it counts most.
Kody holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and is completing his master's in sport performance and psychology. More importantly, he is personally mentored by Ben Newman, one of the five most respected performance coaches in the world. He has been selected as a judge for the International Globee Awards for Excellence: a distinction reserved for the elite practitioners in his field.
As founder of KHP Coaching, creator of the Diamond Leadership Architecture framework, and architect of the KHP1 performance community, Kody doesn't build athletes. He builds champions who know exactly who they are, what they're capable of, and how to deliver it when the stakes are highest

Kody Hartlaub is an internationally recognized performance specialist in the mental architecture of champions. He works exclusively with elite athletes, Olympic contenders, world-class competitors, and high-performing organizations—including profess... Show more

Michael Podolsky is the CEO and сo-founder of PissedConsumer.com, a consumer advocacy and review platform, and WiserBrand.com, an AI, strategy, and product engineering agency. He is an award-winning entrepreneur with over two decades of Wall Street experience and 20+ years in entrepreneurship, leading two Inc.5000-recognized companies. Michael’s work focuses on the intersection of AI, digital marketing, customer experience, and real-world consumer feedback. A strong advocate for consumers’ right to free speech, he is a frequent speaker on practical ways businesses can turn feedback and consumer insights into measurable improvements in trust and performance.

Michael Podolsky is the CEO and сo-founder of PissedConsumer.com, a consumer advocacy and review platform, and WiserBrand.com, an AI, strategy, and product engineering agency. He is an award-winning entrepreneur with over two decades of Wall Street e... Show more

Data Scientist with hands-on experience in building and scaling data-driven solutions across analytics, machine learning, and AI applications. Specialises in translating business problems into actionable insights, developing intelligent systems, and driving impact through data.

Experienced in delivering real-world AI use cases, conducting workshops, and simplifying complex concepts for diverse audiences. Passionate about enabling organisations and students to adopt AI effectively through practical, outcome-driven approaches.

Data Scientist with hands-on experience in building and scaling data-driven solutions across analytics, machine learning, and AI applications. Specialises in translating business problems into actionable insights, developing intelligent systems, and ... Show more

Josh Hankins is a seasoned IT professional and leader with 30 years of experience. He started as a network engineer in 1996 and transitioned to the cybersecurity field 10 years later. Beginning 2006, he worked in various cybersecurity roles, such as: a security architect, analyst, engineer and incident handler. These roles spanned businesses ranging from a Fortune 500 financial institution, a credit card processor and a global consulting company. Next, he served 9 years as the Director of Security & Incident Response for a data analytics subsidiary for the 5th largest retailer in the world. During this time, Josh successfully built and matured several cyber security programs, such as: Vulnerability Management, DevSecOps, Cyber Risk Metrics, and Incident Response for both on-prem & the cloud, respectively. Before returning to his consulting roots, as a Consulting CISO at CBTS, Josh served as the Americas Chief Technical Security Officer for a global SaaS security & compliance vendor. Here, he assisted customers in achieving their strategic business goals in a secure manner. He holds many industry certifications (a CISSP and 3 different GIAC designations.) Josh frequently presents at conferences across North America, the UK, and Europe. Lastly, he volunteers his time by mentoring others and serving on the board for a local startup.

Josh Hankins is a seasoned IT professional and leader with 30 years of experience. He started as a network engineer in 1996 and transitioned to the cybersecurity field 10 years later. Beginning 2006, he worked in various cybersecurity roles, such as:... Show more

Rohit Sivaprasad leads the data team at Adobe Stock, where his team builds the metrics, models, and infrastructure the business actually runs on. Before Adobe, he spent 14 years across Meta, Walmart, AWS, and DigitalOcean, mostly figuring out how to make organizations trust and use their own data. He's contributed to scikit-learn, competed on Kaggle, and created DataTau. When not arguing about metric definitions, he's probably on a trail somewhere.

Rohit Sivaprasad leads the data team at Adobe Stock, where his team builds the metrics, models, and infrastructure the business actually runs on. Before Adobe, he spent 14 years across Meta, Walmart, AWS, and DigitalOcean, mostly figuring out how to ... Show more

Vanessa Omeokachie is the founder and CEO of TravBudd. TravBudd is an Event (and experiences) Discovery + People Matching platform reimagining how people meet, connect, and engage with each other. Inspired by her own experiences with loneliness and social isolation, she started TravBudd to help foster genuine human connections through mutual interests and shared experiences. Ms. Omeokachie is a graduate of the University of Kentucky, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics and International Business.

Vanessa Omeokachie is the founder and CEO of TravBudd. TravBudd is an Event (and experiences) Discovery + People Matching platform reimagining how people meet, connect, and engage with each other. Inspired by her own experiences with loneliness and s... Show more

Karl Lillrud is a globally acclaimed expert in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and business innovation, known for empowering audiences to transform challenges into opportunities. As one of the TOP10 AI Thought Leaders by Thinkers360 and ranked 11th among the world's TOP30 speakers by Global Gurus, Karl combines a wealth of knowledge with a dynamic, engaging speaking style that has captivated audiences across the globe.

With 28 years of experience, Karl has collaborated with Fortune 500 companies, groundbreaking startups, and global leaders to deliver transformative results. From driving e-commerce expansion in 12 countries for H&M to managing global technology migrations for clients like Tele2 and H&M, Karl’s career exemplifies innovation and impact at scale. His expertise spans industries such as AI, telecom, e-commerce, and customer experience, with projects that have reshaped organizational strategies and unlocked unprecedented growth.

A two-time TEDx speaker and best-selling author of nine books, including "AI: Your Second Brain—Evolve or Go Extinct," Karl demystifies complex topics, offering practical insights into leveraging AI, fostering innovation, and navigating the digital age. His accolades, including multiple global awards for leadership and innovation, underscore his authority and impact in shaping the future of technology and business.

Karl’s presentations are renowned for their actionable takeaways and transformative ideas. Whether addressing AI ethics, the future of work, or strategies for scaling businesses in an increasingly digital world, Karl delivers content that is tailored to resonate with each audience. His ability to translate technical complexity into relatable insights has made him a sought-after speaker at events such as the World Economic Forum, Seamless KSA, and other high-profile global stages.

By choosing Karl Lillrud for your event, you’re not just hiring a speaker—you’re bringing in a catalyst for inspiration, growth, and innovation. His proven track record of empowering organizations and individuals ensures your audience will leave equipped to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Karl Lillrud is a globally acclaimed expert in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and business innovation, known for empowering audiences to transform challenges into opportunities. As one of the TOP10 AI Thought Leaders by Thinkers360 ... Show more

Sauvage is a European tech leader, entrepreneur, consultant, and investor. He has founded four companies (two successful exits), built 40+ apps with 400M+ downloads, and advised startups and global groups like Airbus, Chanel, and LVMH. As a business angel (32 startups) and LP in two funds, he actively supports the next generation of innovators.

Sauvage is a European tech leader, entrepreneur, consultant, and investor. He has founded four companies (two successful exits), built 40+ apps with 400M+ downloads, and advised startups and global groups like Airbus, Chanel, and LVMH. As a business ... Show more

Connie Byers is the founder of Byers Ranch Apothecary, a botanical skincare and wellness brand based in Durango, Colorado. What began as a small handmade business has grown into a recognizable regional brand known for its cohesive visual identity, elevated customer experience, and thoughtfully crafted products rooted in herbal tradition.

In addition to running Byers Ranch Apothecary, Connie works as a freelance designer and creative consultant, helping small businesses develop branding, packaging, websites, and visual storytelling that feel both authentic and professionally polished. Her work focuses on helping makers and creative entrepreneurs build brands that connect emotionally with customers while standing out in competitive handmade markets.

Connie is also the 2026 Creatives & Makers Track Captain for West Slope Startup Week.

Connie Byers is the founder of Byers Ranch Apothecary, a botanical skincare and wellness brand based in Durango, Colorado. What began as a small handmade business has grown into a recognizable regional brand known for its cohesive visual identity, el... Show more

Taiany Bittencourt est UX Researcher et UX-UI Designer freelance avec 14 ans d'expérience, dont plus de 4 ans spécialisés en recherche utilisateur. Elle accompagne des entreprises et porteurs de projet à mieux comprendre leurs utilisateurs avant de concevoir, d'optimiser ou de refondre leurs produits et services numériques.

Après des années à travailler pour des organisations de toutes tailles et de tous secteurs, elle a récemment créé La Chouette Enquête pour recentrer son activité freelance sur ce qu'elle aime le plus : les projets portés par une démarche de recherche utilisateur.

Elle s'intéresse particulièrement aux projets qui cherchent à avoir un impact concret : éducation, parentalité, santé mentale, alimentation, inclusion et diversité, économie circulaire et protection animale.

Elle y mène des études qualitatives et quantitatives, des tests utilisateurs et des audits, convaincue qu'un bon produit n'oppose pas les intérêts du business et ceux des utilisateurs. Elle aime travailler sur des projets qui ont une stratégie gagnant-gagnant : un produit qui sert vraiment les utilisateurs, remplit les objectifs business pour accomplir une mission qui a du sens.

Depuis mi-2025, elle est également mentor du parcours UX Design sur OpenClassrooms, où elle accompagne des étudiants en reconversion ou en spécialisation dans leurs projets.

Brésilienne installée en France depuis 2008, elle peut accompagner des clients des deux côtés de l'Atlantique, en français et en portugais brésilien.

Taiany Bittencourt est UX Researcher et UX-UI Designer freelance avec 14 ans d'expérience, dont plus de 4 ans spécialisés en recherche utilisateur. Elle accompagne des entreprises et porteurs de projet à mieux comprendre leurs utilisateurs avant de c... Show more

Arne van Oosterom is a creative facilitator and keynote speaker helping design and product teams navigate complexity and build future-ready human skills. He founded Future Skills Academy and previously built DesignThinkers Academy into a global network. His work sits at the intersection of brand, strategy, and making, with a focus on human skills, decision-making, collaboration, and thoughtful use of AI.

Arne van Oosterom is a creative facilitator and keynote speaker helping design and product teams navigate complexity and build future-ready human skills. He founded Future Skills Academy and previously built DesignThinkers Academy into a global netwo... Show more

Shelly Townsend is a very gifted and imaginative woman who is well-known for her creative thinking. One of London's most esteemed colleges, Imperial College, awarded her a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 2013. Shely Townsend has dreamed of becoming a fashion designer since she was a young girl. She did, however, pursue a BBA at her father's request. She still wanted to follow her ambition, though, even after all these years. She made the decision to start her brand at that point. On December 25, 2015, Shelly Townsend's birthday, she debuted her first line of Men's Cotton Jackets UK. In Malvern, she set up her brand's headquarters.

Shelly Townsend is a very gifted and imaginative woman who is well-known for her creative thinking. One of London's most esteemed colleges, Imperial College, awarded her a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 2013. Shely Townsend has dreamed ... Show more

Ed leads the Americas Microsoft AI and Data practice and the Americas Microsoft Fabric & AI Platform CoE, steering analytics and AI initiatives within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. His focus is on Analytics Modernization, GenAI, accelerating complex projects and enhancing value for clients. Ed is a experienced in design thinking and product/solution development, as well as a specialist in data visulization and business intelligence.

Ed has 30+ years of industry and technology consulting experience with the last 12 years dedicated to the Microsoft AI & Data ecosystem. Industry sector experiences include Life Sciences, Healthcare, Engineering & Construction, Media & Entertainment, and Consumer Goods.

Ed leads the Americas Microsoft AI and Data practice and the Americas Microsoft Fabric & AI Platform CoE, steering analytics and AI initiatives within the Microsoft Azure ecosystem. His focus is on Analytics Modernization, GenAI, accelerating complex... Show more

Alex Levin is an American entrepreneur, strategist, and design innovator. He is the Founding Partner of L+R, a global technology design and strategy firm where interdisciplinary teams of designers, engineers, and consultants help organizations integrate emerging technologies. L+R's work has earned recognition from the Red Dot Design Awards, Webby Awards, and other industry honors.

Since founding L+R in 2012 after graduating from Parsons School of Design, Alex has led the firm’s consulting practice and its luxury-focused special business unit, Liquid Crystal. He’s partnered with clients like Amazon Web Services, Google, Hilton Worldwide, Printemps New York, and the Estée Lauder Companies to bring emerging tech into real-world applications.

In 2017, Alex launched LookSee, an iOS mobile VR prototyping tool later adapted for Louis Vuitton. The following year, in collaboration with AWS, he led the creation of SeeLook, a 3D and AR iOS and Android mobile app powered by Amazon Sumerian. His team’s design frameworks have contributed to the Meta Spatial SDK and resulted in the fully in-house development of Media View, an open-source app for the Meta Quest, built entirely in Kotlin. L+R continues to partner with Meta to support mobile designers entering the spatial computing space with Meta’s Device Access Toolkit SDK for the Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta AI Glasses.

Alex also founded Meridian, a global spatial computing meetup with chapters in Berlin, Nairobi, Brooklyn, and beyond. He serves on the Parsons Alumni Committee Board, mentors at XRC Labs, advises the Ad Council, and is an alum of the Luxury Education Foundation. He was recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2019.

Alex Levin is an American entrepreneur, strategist, and design innovator. He is the Founding Partner of L+R, a global technology design and strategy firm where interdisciplinary teams of designers, engineers, and consultants help organizations integr... Show more

A Symphony of Talent, Service, and Entertainment
T. S. Edwards or Teresa, affectionately known as "MiZZ Entertainment," is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, weaving a tapestry of diverse experiences and talents. With an MBA from Kennesaw State University and over two decades of distinguished service in the U.S. Air Force, Edwards has seamlessly transitioned from global military operations to commanding stages and boardrooms alike.

As an entrepreneur, author, executive producer, playwright, and music consultant, Edwards brings unparalleled energy and expertise to every endeavor. Her magnetic presence as a speaker and host has electrified audiences across hundreds of events, collaborating with industry titans such as Warner Bros. Discovery, AT&T, and the Technology Association of Georgia.

Edwards' journey from telecommunications professional to entertainment mogul is a testament to her adaptability and passion. As co-founder of Terror Dome Entertainment, LLC, she channels her creative vision into groundbreaking video and music productions. Her commitment to social causes shines through Silence the Tears, a non-profit she founded to support abused children. And From School to Possibilities, a non-profit she found to support minority high school students interested in media and entertainment.

Featured in CanvasRebel and VoyageATL, Edwards' influence extends beyond the spotlight. She dedicates her time as a KSU Executive MBA Program coach and serves on numerous entertainment and technology boards, shaping the future of the industry.

Her artistic repertoire is as diverse as her skill set, spanning television shows, podcasts, plays, movie shorts, and books. The "Adventures of Hildie and Carlos" children's book series stands as a heartwarming tribute to her granddaughter.

In every role - be it entrepreneur, veteran, consultant, mentor, or family woman - T.S. Edwards brings an infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication. Those who work with her don't just become clients; they become part of a legacy built on passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

T. S. Edwards doesn't just entertain; she inspires, innovates, and ignites the potential in others, truly embodying the essence of "MiZZ Entertainment" in every aspect of her multifaceted career.

A Symphony of Talent, Service, and Entertainment T. S. Edwards or Teresa, affectionately known as "MiZZ Entertainment," is a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, weaving a tapestry of diverse experiences and talents. With an MBA from Kennesa... Show more

I help large engineering organizations improve flow, resilience, and delivery speed at scale. Building on global speaking experience and now driving continuous improvement for 1,300+ engineers at TechNL, I focus on DevSecOps, engineering effectiveness, developer experience, and product-oriented ways of working.

I help large engineering organizations improve flow, resilience, and delivery speed at scale. Building on global speaking experience and now driving continuous improvement for 1,300+ engineers at TechNL, I focus on DevSecOps, engineering effectivenes... Show more

John Mead is a youth development speaker and entrepreneur dedicated to helping young people recognize their potential and change the trajectory of their lives. For 15 years, John worked inside a juvenile detention center, where he witnessed firsthand how environment, mindset, and opportunity shape the choices young people make.

Those experiences transformed his perspective and inspired him to build a mission focused on empowering youth through empathy, accountability, and growth mindset. Today, John is the founder of MVA Wellness, where he delivers workshops and talks that help students develop self-awareness, resilience, and self-efficacy.

Through powerful storytelling and real-life lessons from working with justice-involved youth, John helps students challenge limiting beliefs and recognize the power they have to rewrite their future. His work focuses on leadership, personal responsibility, and helping young people believe in what is truly possible for their lives.

John Mead is a youth development speaker and entrepreneur dedicated to helping young people recognize their potential and change the trajectory of their lives. For 15 years, John worked inside a juvenile detention center, where he witnessed firsthand... Show more

Bruce Abernethy is a seasoned developer with over 30 years of experience in corporate, consulting, and product companies. He has developed, written, presented, and taught front-end development as user interface technologies have evolved since 1992. He is currently the Software Development Manager for a financial services company in Grand Rapids, Michigan - leading two teams working on active development in Flutter and supporting back-end technologies.

Bruce Abernethy is a seasoned developer with over 30 years of experience in corporate, consulting, and product companies. He has developed, written, presented, and taught front-end development as user interface technologies have evolved since 1992. ... Show more

Bennett D. Bennett (he/him) is currently Cultural Strategy Director, US at GUT. In this role, Bennett oversees inclusion strategy and trend curation, ensuring GUT’s clients and teams meet the moment in multicultural, lifestyle, and entertainment projects. Bringing a multi-disciplined background, his past lives as a creative director, journalist, talent advocate, and content strategist combine to help future-forward brands create intentional, non-traditional campaigns and content.

A career-long advocate of talent equity for media professionals from marginalized groups, he’s a founder of the nonprofit 600 & Rising, and the inclusion summit Allyship and Action.
Bennett’s decade-plus in marketing and media have has included stints at Interbrand, BBDO New York, The Drum, Saatchi & Saatchi, and 22Squared. A 2013 MAIP Alum, Bennett’s been honored as a 2017 ADWEEK Young Influential and one of the 4As 100 People Who Make Advertising Great.

Bennett D. Bennett (he/him) is currently Cultural Strategy Director, US at GUT. In this role, Bennett oversees inclusion strategy and trend curation, ensuring GUT’s clients and teams meet the moment in multicultural, lifestyle, and entertainment proj... Show more

An award-winning bilingual journalist, TV personality, mom, speaker and Latina content creator featured on Good Morning America, Today, Despierta América, Hoy Día, CNN en Español and other shows, Jeannette Kaplun is the founder of bilingual lifestyle magazine Hispana Global, where she offers inspiration, tips and information in English and Spanish. Previously she cofounded multimedia parenting company Todobebé and was one of the first Latina mom bloggers. She was a Special Advisor to The Bank of America Institute for Women's Entrepreneurship at Cornell and was included in the Forbes #Next1000 2021 list. Her latest venture is Midlife Elevated, which hosts workshops for women over 40. Find her on social media @jeannettekaplun.

An award-winning bilingual journalist, TV personality, mom, speaker and Latina content creator featured on Good Morning America, Today, Despierta América, Hoy Día, CNN en Español and other shows, Jeannette Kaplun is the founder of bilingual lifestyle... Show more

After 28 years driving industrial hyper-efficiency for a global water bottling giant, I experienced a profound wake-up call regarding the fragility and ecological cost of our optimization models. Today, as the co-founder of Permabilis, a purpose-driven R&D pre-seed startup, and holding an Executive PhD from Paris-Dauphine, I challenge corporate leaders to move beyond the 'cult of efficiency' to build systemic robustness in practice. I guide organizations toward regenerative economics and 'Responsible Plastic' trajectories, leveraging decentralized technologies not just to optimize, but to fundamentally transform behaviors and industrial ecosystems.

After 28 years driving industrial hyper-efficiency for a global water bottling giant, I experienced a profound wake-up call regarding the fragility and ecological cost of our optimization models. Today, as the co-founder of Permabilis, a purpose-driv... Show more

Jimmy Clare is an autistic keynote speaker, podcaster, and founder of CrazyFitnessGuy®, a wellness platform that makes neurodiversity, mental health, and sustainable habits practical for everyday life. Growing up autistic with a non‑verbal learning disorder, Jimmy was bullied in school, faced multiple surgeries and health challenges, and was often told what he would never be able to do. Instead of letting those experiences define him, he learned to turn adversity into fuel and now helps audiences do the same.

Through his keynotes and the CrazyFitnessGuy® Show, Jimmy blends lived experience, humor, and clear frameworks to help people build realistic habits, rethink what “healthy” can look like, and support neurodivergent colleagues, students, and family members more effectively. His sessions translate big ideas about inclusion, resilience, and wellness into small, concrete actions that busy people can actually use.

Jimmy likes to joke that he is “the poor Matt Damon of the speaking world”—no Hollywood budget, no stunt doubles, just a real guy who shows up, tells the truth, and helps people laugh while they rethink what they are capable of. Event organizers value his no‑fluff style, professionalism, and flexibility. He collaborates on goals and audience needs, adapts to different room setups and formats, and delivers engaging content that works for both students and professionals. Jimmy is a strong fit for events focused on autism and neurodiversity, mental health and wellness, bullying and resilience, and inclusive workplace culture.

Jimmy Clare is an autistic keynote speaker, podcaster, and founder of CrazyFitnessGuy®, a wellness platform that makes neurodiversity, mental health, and sustainable habits practical for everyday life. Growing up autistic with a non‑verbal learning d... Show more