Michael Bower is a 30+ year broadcasting and podcast veteran who has hosted national shows on Sirius Satellite Radio, delivered daily reports as a National Correspondent for NBC News Radio, and produced more than 1,000 podcasts across genres. As a former VP of Programming for Ingstad Minnesota Radio Network, he led talent development, coached on-air hosts, and even tested early AI “on-air personalities” — discovering why authenticity always beats automation.

Today, Michael brings that experience to the stage with talks that blend broadcast discipline, podcast innovation, and humor from his years in stand-up comedy. His signature sessions — Craft Over Clout, Process Over Perfection, and The AI DJ Problem — help creators cut through the noise, build loyal audiences, and reclaim quality in an algorithm-driven era.

Michael’s approach is simple but powerful: respect your listener’s time, earn their trust, and give them something they’ll come back for.

Michael Bower is a 30+ year broadcasting and podcast veteran who has hosted national shows on Sirius Satellite Radio, delivered daily reports as a National Correspondent for NBC News Radio, and produced more than 1,000 podcasts across genres. As a fo... Show more

Cindy Gross is a leadership clarity coach who helps women and non-binary leaders in tech lead with courage, clarity, and confidence. A former Microsoft data and cloud architect with 25+ years in enterprise tech, she knows firsthand what it means to thrive in high-pressure, male-dominated environments—while carrying the emotional labor of being “the only one.”

Now, as the founder of Befriending Dragons, Cindy supports underestimated leaders who are ready to stop shape-shifting to survive and start leading from their full selves. She blends systems thinking, equity-centered coaching, and lived experience to help clients navigate burnout, bias, and big decisions with grounded insight and practical strategy. Her work invites leaders to reclaim their voice, set powerful boundaries, and lead in ways that are both effective and deeply aligned.

Cindy’s keynotes and workshops have sparked reflection and change in tech teams, leadership cohorts, coaching communities, and public sector organizations. She speaks with sharp insight, mythic perspective, and deep compassion for what it really takes to lead when the system wasn’t built for you. Her message is simple and powerful: you’re not broken. You get to lead as your full self—and when you do, you change everything.

Cindy Gross is a leadership clarity coach who helps women and non-binary leaders in tech lead with courage, clarity, and confidence. A former Microsoft data and cloud architect with 25+ years in enterprise tech, she knows firsthand what it means to t... Show more

Dr. Andrei Nutas is a seasoned Test Architect and QA Team Lead with over 12 years of professional experience in which he designed, implemented, and supervised the development of automation solutions and transformed the quality process of various clients. In addition, he is an experienced speaker for both academic and business conferences.

He holds a PhD in AI Ethics and is currently completing an Executive Master in Digital Transformation at ESSEC Business School.

Dr. Andrei Nutas is a seasoned Test Architect and QA Team Lead with over 12 years of professional experience in which he designed, implemented, and supervised the development of automation solutions and transformed the quality process of various clie... Show more

Sono un papà bis, da decenni nel mondo del software con una passione per la mente e per questo mi sono laureato in Psicologia. Negli ultimi anni, parallelamente al mio lavoro tra architetture software e engineering management in scaleup e realtà internazionali, mi sono dedicato alla ricerca e alla divulgazione all'intersezione tra scienze cognitive e ingegneria del software, con The Mental Stack su Medium. Sono convinto che le persone restino il motore reale di qualsiasi organizzazione che voglia costruire prodotti che durano e che capire come funziona la mente sia oggi più urgente che mai, in un settore che sta cambiando più velocemente della nostra capacità di adattarci.

Sono un papà bis, da decenni nel mondo del software con una passione per la mente e per questo mi sono laureato in Psicologia. Negli ultimi anni, parallelamente al mio lavoro tra architetture software e engineering management in scaleup e realtà inte... Show more

Emanuel Toledo is a Data Scientist and holds a degree in Public Management, specializing in the implementation of artificial intelligence and the strategic use of data in organizations.

With over 15 years of experience in the public sector, he works on designing practical frameworks for AI adoption, addressing its limitations, risks, and challenges in real-world decision-making contexts.

He is the founder of Thinking Out!, a consulting firm focused on data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation, where he supports institutions and professionals in the effective integration of these technologies.

He is currently researching how the public sector can reduce its structural gaps and improve its capabilities through the strategic adoption of technology. As part of this work, he developed a digital transition approach adaptable to different types of organizations, aimed at effectively integrating data and artificial intelligence in real-world management contexts.

Emanuel Toledo is a Data Scientist and holds a degree in Public Management, specializing in the implementation of artificial intelligence and the strategic use of data in organizations. With over 15 years of experience in the public sector, he wor... Show more

I fell in love with tech trying to understand the minds working behind the code. I studied a master's in cognitive sciences applied to computational thinking, I also hold a master's in HR and currently, I am studying behavioral sciences through primatology (yes! monkeys).
The scientific approach has greatly benefited my partnering with tech leads, allowing me to collaborate with them in understanding their team's behavior from the roots of our humanity, avoiding clichés and abstract theories.

I fell in love with tech trying to understand the minds working behind the code. I studied a master's in cognitive sciences applied to computational thinking, I also hold a master's in HR and currently, I am studying behavioral sciences through prima... Show more

I'm Robert Azeem Jackson III, an Afrofuturist cultural strategist and data scientist, and founder of Cypher, a data sovereignty studio. I help founders and community entrepreneurs, and the municipal leaders who back them, build portable memory systems: systems that travel from one city to the next and stay owned by the people who built them. My clients learn to own the data their communities already hold, govern it on their own terms, and turn it into funding, infrastructure, and wealth that no platform can hold hostage. They walk in sitting on a story they can't prove and an asset that keeps getting overlooked in the rooms where money moves. They walk out owning it. In Moorestown, one elder's story became more than $350,000 in municipal and state funding for a neighborhood park. Since 2021, Cypher has helped partners raise over $1.5M and save more than $400K on compliance. The pain I help them avoid is the quiet one, watching their memory get extracted, digitized, and sold by someone else while they inherit nothing. The goal is sovereignty: a community that owns its story, carries it wherever it goes, and gets paid to keep it.

I'm Robert Azeem Jackson III, an Afrofuturist cultural strategist and data scientist, and founder of Cypher, a data sovereignty studio. I help founders and community entrepreneurs, and the municipal leaders who back them, build portable memory system... Show more

Kashif Khan is a co-chair of CNCF TAG Infrastructure and maintainer of the CNCF project Metal3.io for 6 years. He works as an open source Architect for Ericsson Software Technology, Finland. He holds a PhD in Computer Science. Kashif is a research and open source enthusiast and his current area of interest is kubernetes deployments on baremetal systems in distributed cloud scenarios.

Kashif Khan is a co-chair of CNCF TAG Infrastructure and maintainer of the CNCF project Metal3.io for 6 years. He works as an open source Architect for Ericsson Software Technology, Finland. He holds a PhD in Computer Science. Kashif is a research an... Show more

Aycee Brown is a psychic medium, astrologer, spiritual guide, and teacher, and the host of the podcast Is My Aura On Straight? Known as the “Voice of Truth,” she helps people break free from inherited identities, unchosen wounds, and survival patterns so they can live their most unapologetic, magical lives. Her work has been featured in Essence, HuffPost, Ebony, Good Housekeeping, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Brides, Elite Daily, and Who, What, Wear.

Aycee Brown is a psychic medium, astrologer, spiritual guide, and teacher, and the host of the podcast Is My Aura On Straight? Known as the “Voice of Truth,” she helps people break free from inherited identities, unchosen wounds, and survival pattern... Show more

Arya Atul Gohad is a recent graduate in Interaction Design from Srishti Manipal Institute, with an exchange semester at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK), Switzerland. She works at the intersection of AI, digital identity, and human experience, with a particular focus on the gap between lived identity and system-readable identification. Her current research examines how migrant workers in India navigate digital infrastructure, and what breaks when systems built for legibility meet lives defined by precarity.

Arya approaches design through research, speculative thinking, and storytelling. She is drawn to edge cases, contradictions, and the messy middle that polished frameworks tend to erase. She is building her perspective in public, asking what it means to move design beyond usability toward dignity, legibility, and more humane futures.

Arya Atul Gohad is a recent graduate in Interaction Design from Srishti Manipal Institute, with an exchange semester at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK), Switzerland. She works at the intersection of AI, digital identity, and human experience... Show more

Nalin Theodore is a recent graduate of Christopher Newport University who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies with a Minor in Leadership Studies. During his time at CNU, he was involved with the Presidential Leadership Program, Men’s Ultimate Frisbee Team, Lambda Pi Eta (Communication Honor Society), and Residential Life. He also served as a Reuzzi Student Ambassador at the start of January 2026. Through his earlier roles with projects in sustainability and other projects, Nalin found ways to use his talents to help Reuzzi make content and promotional videos supporting their more sustainable solutions. Nalin is currently pursuing a master's in Management at George Mason University, while working as a Sales Consultant for Safford Subaru Manassas. In his free time, Nalin enjoys playing Ultimate Frisbee, creating videos, going to the gym, serving in his local community, and exploring the outdoors for fun!

Nalin Theodore is a recent graduate of Christopher Newport University who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies with a Minor in Leadership Studies. During his time at CNU, he was involved with the Presidential Leadership Program... Show more

Victoria lleva casi +16 años formando parte del ecosistema de start-ups en Argentina, donde ha sido una pionera en la construcción de equipos de alto rendimiento en ingeniería y desarrollo de producto. Además de ser anfitriona y ponente habitual en conferencias tecnológicas, también ha sido profesora invitada en programas de MBA, compartiendo su experiencia en talento y estrategia.

Sus especialidades incluyen el desarrollo de estrategias de contratación, mentoring, networking y asesoramiento a start-ups en crecimiento. A través de Talent Wind, su empresa, conecta a profesionales excepcionales con proyectos que marcan la diferencia, ayudando a personas y organizaciones a alcanzar sus objetivos de carrera y crecimiento.

Victoria lleva casi +16 años formando parte del ecosistema de start-ups en Argentina, donde ha sido una pionera en la construcción de equipos de alto rendimiento en ingeniería y desarrollo de producto. Además de ser anfitriona y ponente habitual en c... Show more

Joris Quarshie is an Events and Programs Officer at Open Knowledge Impact Foundation, where he leads the planning and execution of impactful programs that promote open knowledge, community engagement, and digital inclusion. He works closely with diverse stakeholders to design initiatives that empower contributors, strengthen collaborative networks, and advance access to free and open information across communities.

Joris Quarshie is an Events and Programs Officer at Open Knowledge Impact Foundation, where he leads the planning and execution of impactful programs that promote open knowledge, community engagement, and digital inclusion. He works closely with dive... Show more

I'm Fer Ochoa — a digital strategist, content creator, creative director, and audiovisual producer from Mexico, based in Utah, United States. Through my agency 91 Studio, I work with Latino entrepreneurs and business owners to take their brands to the next level — because I understand from the inside what it means to build something of your own in a country that isn't yours.
My story starts with a moment of deep clarity: recognizing my own talents and understanding that no one else was going to come build my dreams for me. Since then, I've dedicated my work to creating paths — for myself and for others.
I'm passionate about finding formulas, tools, and inspiration to help us become our best selves. That search led me to found Mi Vida con Ella ("My Life with Her"), a Spanish-language podcast built around deep conversations with women who have made hard decisions, built businesses, and reinvented themselves. A space created especially for Hispanic women who sometimes feel they don't belong or that their dreams aren't possible — and who need to hear that they are.
Beyond my digital work, I've spoken at local events in Utah, connecting closely with the needs of the Hispanic community and bringing messages of information, motivation, and possibility to those who need it most. For me, the greatest achievement isn't a number — it's the real connection with my community.

I'm Fer Ochoa — a digital strategist, content creator, creative director, and audiovisual producer from Mexico, based in Utah, United States. Through my agency 91 Studio, I work with Latino entrepreneurs and business owners to take their brands to th... Show more

Gabrielle Birchak is what happens when a mathematician walks into a comedy club and never fully leaves.

A science communicator, podcast host, and author, Birchak helps students and educators see “science” not as an intimidating subject but as something everyone already does every day without realizing it.

In her keynote, “You Already Think Like a Mathematician (You Just Don’t Know It Yet),” Birchak draws on history’s overlooked scientific figures to show audiences that curiosity, reasoning, and problem-solving aren’t special skills reserved for “science people;” they are tools everyone already has. The talk blends storytelling, history, and humor to make scientific thinking feel accessible, human, and immediately usable, whether in a classroom, a research lab, or everyday life.

As host of Math! Science! History!®, a podcast with over 200 research-based episodes reaching a worldwide audience, Birchak has spent years researching and telling the stories of the people history forgot to credit. Her work draws on her early experience in media relations at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, her background in mathematics and journalism, and her contributions to the Mathematical Association of America.

Birchak is currently bringing this keynote to stages for the first time, and is especially drawn to educational audiences, students, educators, and institutions looking to make science feel less like a subject and more like a mindset.

Gabrielle Birchak is what happens when a mathematician walks into a comedy club and never fully leaves. A science communicator, podcast host, and author, Birchak helps students and educators see “science” not as an intimidating subject but as some... Show more

Frank Köhne is co-head of viadee's Data Science division. He has a research background and has spent the last 15 years coordinating the company's collaborations with universities in the region, but he has also spent a lot of time on software development and architecture, often in insurance or logistics.
He is currently leading a BMBF-funded consortium with the goal of leveraging process workarounds in the context of Industry 4.0 for process innovation.

Frank Köhne is co-head of viadee's Data Science division. He has a research background and has spent the last 15 years coordinating the company's collaborations with universities in the region, but he has also spent a lot of time on software developm... Show more

Salma Mohammed Salem Al Ketbi is an Emirati educator and researcher specializing in Arabic language curricula. She serves as a Vice Principal and is recognized as one of the leading education professionals in the UAE.

She is the recipient of the Mohammed bin Zayed Award for Best Teacher, named Best Teacher in the Arab World, and is the first Emirati teacher to enter the Guinness World Records for a world-first innovation in creative writing.

She has led several impactful educational initiatives, including the “International Teachers Knowledge Fund Platform” and the Tokkatsu Project, both focused on teacher development and student character building. She has also contributed to national programs supporting reading, writing, and student assessment preparation.

Salma has participated in various research projects and conferences locally and internationally, contributing to curriculum development and educational innovation.

She believes education is a key driver for shaping the future and is committed to empowering teachers and students to become lifelong learners and active contributors to society.

Salma Mohammed Salem Al Ketbi is an Emirati educator and researcher specializing in Arabic language curricula. She serves as a Vice Principal and is recognized as one of the leading education professionals in the UAE. She is the recipient of the M... Show more

Founder & CEO, OpenShare
Ph.D. in Computer Science and Technology, Tongji University. His research centers on open-source ecosystem data and quantitative contribution evaluation via algorithms like OpenRank. Previously served as Community Manager at the Alibaba Open Source Program Office, with deep industry experience governing large-scale open-source communities.

Founder & CEO, OpenShare Ph.D. in Computer Science and Technology, Tongji University. His research centers on open-source ecosystem data and quantitative contribution evaluation via algorithms like OpenRank. Previously served as Community Manager at... Show more

Andrea Palumbo è avvocato e si occupa di privacy, cybersecuirty e diritto delle penale dell'informatica e dell'impresa, materie nelle quali svolge anche attività di consulenza e formazione presso imprese e pubbliche amministrazioni. E’ spesso relatore a convegni e conferenze specialistici sui temi legati al mondo ICT.

Andrea Palumbo è avvocato e si occupa di privacy, cybersecuirty e diritto delle penale dell'informatica e dell'impresa, materie nelle quali svolge anche attività di consulenza e formazione presso imprese e pubbliche amministrazioni. E’ spesso relator... Show more

Benjamin is an Elixir and Functional Programming enthusiast, and the maintainer of Erlang's Apache Arrow implementation. Though not a core contributor, he also frequently contributes to the Nx and Livebook projects with the occasional contributions to Hexpm and Hex. Being a 16 year old high schooler, he does not have any professional programming experience but he tries to contribute to Opensource whenever time permits.

In his free time he likes to read Non Fiction and Fantasy, listen to 70s and 80s music (and additionally grumble about how nobody at school shares his taste in music) and crack terrible jokes. Beware. He's bit of a Linux and Emacs zealot.

Benjamin is an Elixir and Functional Programming enthusiast, and the maintainer of Erlang's Apache Arrow implementation. Though not a core contributor, he also frequently contributes to the Nx and Livebook projects with the occasional contributions t... Show more

Hi! I'm Caro 🧠✨
I've spent the las 10 years in HR & Leadership, with a background in communications & design and a loud curiosity abput how the uniiverse works. So, for the past two years I have been researching the brain, decision-making, and our connections in remote environments from a DEIB and neuroaffirmative standpoint. I have led tech teams, where I discovered that each brain processes and collaborates from different parameters. My passion lies in designing inclusive environments—not by correcting people, but by configuring teams to learn better together

As a gifted AuDHD girly 💅🏼 I bring a unique perspective that bridges neuroscience, communication, and technology. My talks inspire audiences to rethink collaboration, embrace neurodiversity, and foster truly inclusive cultures in both remote and in-person settings. I am committed to sharing actionable insights that help organizations unlock the full potential of their teams by understanding how our brains work and how we can design environments where everyone thrives. And have fun. Fun is key, neuroscience says.

Hi! I'm Caro 🧠✨ I've spent the las 10 years in HR & Leadership, with a background in communications & design and a loud curiosity abput how the uniiverse works. So, for the past two years I have been researching the brain, decision-making, and our... Show more

Profesional de ciberseguridad especializada en gestión de riesgos, awareness y factores humanos de la seguridad. A lo largo de su carrera ha trabajado en proyectos vinculados a concientización, simulaciones de ingeniería social, gestión de riesgos y marcos de seguridad para organizaciones de distintos sectores. Actualmente complementa su formación técnica con estudios de Psicología, enfocándose en comprender cómo las personas toman decisiones, construyen confianza y responden a la manipulación en entornos digitales. Su interés principal se encuentra en la intersección entre ciberseguridad, cibercrimen, comportamiento humano y protección de niños, niñas y adolescentes en internet.

Profesional de ciberseguridad especializada en gestión de riesgos, awareness y factores humanos de la seguridad. A lo largo de su carrera ha trabajado en proyectos vinculados a concientización, simulaciones de ingeniería social, gestión de riesgos y ... Show more

With my two core strengths - I'm a psychologist and a software architect with a background in full-stack engineering - I have a keen eye for both technical aspects and team dynamics. In startups or large-scale projects, my contribution extends beyond code, I’m dedicated to accompanying organizations through their digital and cultural transformations.
Passionate about DX and designing solutions that empower users and adapt to diverse environments.

With my two core strengths - I'm a psychologist and a software architect with a background in full-stack engineering - I have a keen eye for both technical aspects and team dynamics. In startups or large-scale projects, my contribution extends beyond... Show more

De développeur à Architecte à Coach Agile à Coach Pro, je suis passionné par la découverte de ce qui peut permettre d'amener des relations plus sereines dans une transformation.
J'ai découvert la CNV il y a 6 ans, à laquelle je me suis formé, j'ai coeur à rendre le monde meilleur en partageant ce merveilleux outil.

De développeur à Architecte à Coach Agile à Coach Pro, je suis passionné par la découverte de ce qui peut permettre d'amener des relations plus sereines dans une transformation. J'ai découvert la CNV il y a 6 ans, à laquelle je me suis formé, j'ai c... Show more

En sus inicios lideró la guerra de las colas de los 90, reposicionando en el liderazgo a la hasta entonces desaparecida Pepsi. Este logro fue resultado de aplicar creatividad y esfuerzos comerciales que revolucionaron las técnicas de promoción y venta en nuestro país.

Luego impulsó los cambios en Bieckert, tomando más de 20 puntos de participación del líder del mercado. En esta ocasión la segmentación y los cambios en la distribución fueron las claves para lograr el éxito.

Cerrando el ciclo de bebidas recaló en IVESS dónde la necesidad era “un cambio total”, pasar de una cultura de reparto y monoproducto a una de venta profesional multiproducto, logrando vencer las barreras del cambio que colocan las personas cuando están en un negocio rentable con una marca líder.

El siguiente paso fue desarrollar planes comerciales innovadores en Arcor directamente desde el área de RRHH comercial, la función era desarrollar la máxima potencialidad a través de planes de seguimiento que involucraban la capacitación y mejora continua...

El punto en común de esta primera etapa era enseñar a las compañías de consumo masivo a brindar servicio y potenciar los procesos de calidad. En la segunda la misión fue despertar a las empresas de servicios hacia la necesidad del consumo masivo, adaptación al cambio y creatividad.

Así fueron Hartford Life, Liberty, BNL, Lloyds Bank, Banco Galicia, AFJP Prorenta y Citibank, los primeros beneficiados a través de los servicios de consultoría y capacitación.

Han pasado más de veinte años y con servicios de excelencia acompañó importantes emprendimientos de capacitación a empresas como: Sancor Seguros, Neoris, Automóvil Club, AGFA, Telecom, Calsa, AUDI, Carrefour, VW, Philis Morris, DHL, YPF, Exxon Mobil, Du Pont Pionner, John Deere, Manpower, Fibertel, Toyota, Peugeot, Novartis, Unilever, Accenture, ACARA, Energía San Juan, Shell, San Cristóbal y muchas más.

También trabaja con empresas en el exterior y acreditó experiencia como profesor de la UBA y USAL en Negociación, Ventas, Liderazgo, Coaching y Creatividad.

En sus inicios lideró la guerra de las colas de los 90, reposicionando en el liderazgo a la hasta entonces desaparecida Pepsi. Este logro fue resultado de aplicar creatividad y esfuerzos comerciales que revolucionaron las técnicas de promoción y vent... Show more

Cloud Engineer with over 8 years of experience leading migrations from on-premises infrastructure to the cloud. As an AWS Community Builder, he is dedicated to advancing cloud practices and sharing insights with the broader tech community. Scott is currently pursuing a Doctor of Technology at Purdue University Online, focusing his research on the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics.
He is passionate about staying at the forefront of AWS developments and enjoys mentoring others in cloud technologies. Outside of work, Scott can often be found storm chasing, reading, painting, playing video games, or simply relaxing.

Cloud Engineer with over 8 years of experience leading migrations from on-premises infrastructure to the cloud. As an AWS Community Builder, he is dedicated to advancing cloud practices and sharing insights with the broader tech community. Scott is c... Show more

Lianna Adams is a Human-Centered AI Strategist, Digital Dignity Advocate, and Cognitive Culture Builder recognised by ForbesWeb3, Animoca Brands, and Open Campus as a 2024 Social Impact & Ethics leader — and named one of the Top 10 Rising Women in Crypto 2023.

She has spoken at the WEF in Davos 2024, COP28, TEDx Youth, NFTNYC (four consecutive years), the World Web3.0 & AI Summit, EmpowHer AI, and Web3 Amsterdam, among others.

Her work centres on one urgent question: what do we preserve of ourselves as artificial intelligence transforms how we think, create, and relate? Through keynotes, workshops, and consulting, she helps organisations and communities build cultures where technology amplifies human capability — without eroding cognitive autonomy, creative identity, or dignity.

She is the creator of the Human-AI Cognitive Toolkit — nine science-backed tools for cognitive wellness in an AI-saturated world — and host of The Human Strata, a podcast and newsletter exploring the human layer in the age of AI. She hosts the Wirex Podcast and has convened 80,000+ community participants across digital events since 2021.

Lianna is also the founder of the Digital Dignity Initiative, leads the annual #16Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, and has served as a Non-Executive Director at Mental Health Spaces Collective.

She is available for keynotes, panels, moderation, fireside chats, and workshops.

Lianna Adams is a Human-Centered AI Strategist, Digital Dignity Advocate, and Cognitive Culture Builder recognised by ForbesWeb3, Animoca Brands, and Open Campus as a 2024 Social Impact & Ethics leader — and named one of the Top 10 Rising Women in Cr... Show more

Dr. Carmela Maxell is a licensed mental health professional, professor, author, podcast host, proud mother of three, and woman of color dedicated to making psychology practical, accessible, and deeply human. She is the creator and host of the *Rooted & Rising* podcast, where she translates evidence-based mental health concepts into engaging conversations that help listeners navigate resilience, grief, relationships, leadership, identity, and personal growth.

Drawing on years of experience in behavioral health, higher education, and leadership, Carmela is passionate about bridging the gap between clinical knowledge and everyday life. Her work is grounded in the belief that meaningful conversations can change lives, and she strives to create spaces where people feel seen, challenged, and empowered to grow.

In addition to podcasting, Carmela is the author of *Bereavement*, a dystopian novel exploring grief, memory, and what it means to remain human in a society that regulates emotion. Whether speaking to students, podcast creators, professionals, or community audiences, she brings warmth, authenticity, humor, and practical insight to every conversation.

As a woman of color, educator, clinician, author, and single mother balancing multiple careers, Carmela brings a unique perspective on resilience, sustainable creativity, and building meaningful connections through storytelling. Her mission is simple: to help people—and the creators who reach them—build trust, foster authentic connection, and create lasting impact, one conversation at a time.

Dr. Carmela Maxell is a licensed mental health professional, professor, author, podcast host, proud mother of three, and woman of color dedicated to making psychology practical, accessible, and deeply human. She is the creator and host of the *Rooted... Show more

I solve the $2M problems that happen when brilliant technology meets confused humans.

Over the past decade, I've built AI platforms that generate $5M ARR, transformed failing products into 340% growth stories, and led 50,000+ user migrations with zero downtime. But here's what I've really learned: the biggest technology challenges aren't technical at all. They're psychological.

With my Master's in Social Data Science from Oxford, I've spent my career at the intersection where human behavior meets enterprise technology. I've worked across healthcare, finance, and global consulting at Accenture, consistently discovering that the same patterns emerge everywhere: smart people make predictable, irrational decisions about technology adoption.
I'm the product leader who gets called in when expensive AI implementations sit unused, when teams resist change despite obvious benefits, or when leadership needs someone who can translate between C-suite vision and developer reality. My "human first AI" framework is now adopted by 3 Fortune 500 companies because it works with human psychology rather than against it.
My superpower is turning complex technological chaos into revenue generating clarity. I've reduced patient wait times from 48 hours to 4 hours, cut compliance review time by 87%, and helped teams embrace AI tools they initially feared. I understand both the technical possibilities (Python, TensorFlow, cloud architecture) and the human realities (cognitive bias, change resistance, team dynamics) of making technology actually work.

Whether I'm speaking about AI manipulation psychology, the neuroscience of developer attention, or why brilliant teams make terrible technology decisions, I bring data driven insights combined with real world war stories from the trenches of enterprise transformation.
I
believe the future belongs to leaders who understand that every technology problem is fundamentally a people problem. And people problems are endlessly fascinating to solve.

I solve the $2M problems that happen when brilliant technology meets confused humans. Over the past decade, I've built AI platforms that generate $5M ARR, transformed failing products into 340% growth stories, and led 50,000+ user migrations with ... Show more

Swapna Chimanchodkar is an accomplished transformation leader with nearly two decades of experience enabling sustainable business impact for global organizations through process excellence, data-driven decision-making, and digital transformation. She has successfully led strategic initiatives spanning process and IT transformation, enterprise data strategy, and automation integrating technologies such as AI/ML, RPA, Gen AI, and advanced analytics to solve complex business challenges.
In her current role as Director at UBS Financial Services, Swapna drives large-scale transformation and integration programs across various areas of the bank. She oversees strategic integration, data modernization, and digital and process improvement initiatives, collaborating closely with senior leadership and cross-functional global teams.
A certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Swapna brings a unique combination of analytical rigor, strategic insight, and change management expertise to every engagement. She has been instrumental in designing target operating models, and implementing automation frameworks that deliver measurable efficiencies.
As a thought leader, Swapna regularly contributes to industry dialogue. She served as a keynote speaker and panelist at the NexGen Banking Summit USA 2024, discussing AI-driven business innovation and data-led digital transformation in the banking sector.

Swapna Chimanchodkar is an accomplished transformation leader with nearly two decades of experience enabling sustainable business impact for global organizations through process excellence, data-driven decision-making, and digital transformation. She... Show more