Humanities & Social Sciences

Esteemed speakers contributing their insights into human culture, behavior, and societal development

Sebastiano Galazzo

Sebastiano Galazzo

Winner of three AI awards, I’ve been working in AI and machine learning for 25 years, designing and developing AI and computer graphic algorithms.

I’m very passionate about AI, focusing on Audio, Image and Natural Language Processing, and predictive analysis as well.
I received several national and international awards that recognize my work and contributions in these areas.

Microsoft MVP for Artificial Intelligence Category, I have the pleasure of being a guest speaker in national and international events.

Winner of three AI awards, I’ve been working in AI and machine learning for 25 years, designing and developing AI and computer graphic algorithms. I’m very passionate about AI, focusing on Audio, Image and Natural Language Processing, and predicti... Show more

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC
President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America
International Trainer • Clinical Social Worker • Veteran • Advocate for Equity, Fatherhood, and Mental Health

“I am a Boricua. A dad. A soldier. A professional social worker. An advocate. A teacher. A professor. A counselor. And a friend. And with every role, I lead with love and serve with purpose.”

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC, is a globally acclaimed leader, author, and advocate for the well-being of children and families—renowned for his ability to inspire transformative change through expertise, faith, and service. A proud father, soldier, social worker, and visionary educator, he has devoted more than four decades to helping people rediscover hope, dignity, and purpose. His reach spans early childhood education, public health, child welfare, mental health, leadership development, and fatherhood advocacy—fields that, in his hands, become pathways toward healing and equity.

A Legacy of Service

James's journey of service began at just seventeen when he raised his hand to serve as a combat medic in the United States Army. By twenty-two, he was one of the youngest Substance Abuse Counselors in the Department of Defense, already guiding others toward recovery. Over two decades of military service in behavioral health, law enforcement, and crisis response forged his lifelong devotion to discipline and compassion.

His dedication to serving at-risk youth and families earned him the Points of Light Award from President George H. W. Bush and the Presidential Lifetime Call to Service Award from President Barack H. Obama—each a testament to his extraordinary commitment to public service and to humanity itself. He was later honored with a Meritorious Service Medal from the U.S. Department of Defense and Congressional Certificates of Honor from Members of Congress, including Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, and Congresswoman Diane E. Watson, each recognizing his unwavering commitment to social justice, equity, and family strengthening. He has also been commended by the California State Senate and Legislature and deeply humbled by his Ceremonial Elder Proclamation from the Qutekcak Native Tribe of Alaska.

Building Movements and Securing Hope

After retiring from military service, Dr. Rodríguez channeled his experience into fatherhood and family policy. In Arizona, he founded one of the nation's first TANF-funded fatherhood programs, demonstrating that collaboration and compassion could reshape entire systems. That single program became a national model, generating over $75 million in resources for community initiatives and impacting tens of thousands of families and professionals.

From that vision emerged the Fathers and Families Coalition of America (FFCA), which Dr. Rodríguez developed from a grassroots network into an international nonprofit with offices in California and Puerto Rico, as well as collaborations spanning Australia, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan. Under his leadership, the Coalition's annual International Families and Fathers Conference—now approaching its 27th year—has become one of the world's premier gatherings for educators, policymakers, clinicians, and faith leaders dedicated to advancing equity and family well-being.

Educator Across Borders

Teaching is James's true calling. He has served as a professor at the University of Southern California's School of Social Work and Arizona State University's College of Public Service and Community Solutions. Earlier, he developed curricula for Mesa Community College and Central Arizona College, designing courses in human development and family preservation that remain in use today. He has directed the statewide Cornell University Family Development Credential Program and lectured at Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta University, Howard University, Columbia University, Yale University, Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico, the University of the West Indies, Guelph University in Canada, and with tribal partners such as the Navajo Nation and the Qutekcak Native Tribe of Alaska. Wherever he teaches—from Ivy League classrooms to community halls—he reminds students that purpose is born from perseverance.

Dr. Rodríguez also serves on the Editorial Board of PHYLON: The Clark Atlanta University Review of Race and Culture, appointed by Dr. Obie Clayton Jr., to advance scholarship on race, family, and social policy.

Groundbreaking Curricula and Leadership Training

Throughout his career, Dr. Rodríguez has developed a family of curricula and training institutes that bridge the gap between science and spirituality. His Advanced Practitioner Credential™ Course, OAR Leadership Institute™ (Ownership • Accountability • Responsibility), and the SAMHSA-approved curriculum, including Elevating Fathers in Family Mental Health Support, have trained more than 30,000 professionals nationwide. He is also the creator of the FFCA DiSC Model, as well as Ikigai & The Power of Kintsugi (金継ぎ). This program invites participants to build bridges of destiny through self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven leadership.

Certified as an Executive Coach and DiSC® (TTI Model) Trainer, he is also a Master Trainer for The John R. Wooden Course™ in Executive Coaching and Leadership, a Certified Advanced Life Coach, Life Coach Therapist, Ikigai Coach, and holds a Specialized Schema Therapy Certification. Under his direction, FFCA's training programs uphold the highest national standards in behavioral-health education. The Advanced Practitioner Credential Course is an NASW Arizona-approved continuing education provider, and all FFCA programs adhere to evidence-based, recovery-oriented practice standards that reflect its commitment to ethical, transformative education.

Research and Public Health Innovation

As a Principal Investigator and Senior Researcher, Dr. Rodríguez has led projects funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute of Mental Health, and the U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement. His research with the Somali Association of Arizona, the Hispanic/Latino and African American Parent Depression Research Project, and the Arizona State University Hispanic Family Research Project has advanced culturally responsive care and mental-health equity for communities of color nationwide.

Policy and Public Service Impact

Dr. Rodríguez has been instrumental in advancing fatherhood and family policy at every level of government. He was a key contributor to the establishment of the Fatherhood Research and Practice Network (FRPN)—a collaboration of scholars and advocates dedicated to building the national evidence base for fatherhood services. He has worked closely with Congressman Danny K. Davis on legislation addressing fatherhood and trauma-informed care. He has served as advisor to the Connecticut Fatherhood Initiative and to state legislative task forces in Arizona and California on TANF transition and family-strengthening policy.

In New York City, he has served as a keynote speaker and policy advisor to the Office of the Mayor's Fatherhood Advisory Council, working in partnership with the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) and the Administration for Children's Services (ACS) to advance responsible fatherhood, workforce development, and equitable family systems. His policy influence extends to federal and state agencies, including SAMHSA, the Region II Head Start Association, the State of Maryland, and the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health.

Recognition and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Rodríguez has received numerous recognitions for his professional service and social impact. Among the most notable are the Presidential Lifetime Call to Service Award from President Barack H. Obama; the Points of Light Award from President George H. W. Bush; Congressional Certificates of Recognition from Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, and Congresswoman Diane E. Watson; California State Senate and Legislature Commendations; the Meritorious Service Medal from the U.S. Department of Defense; the Ceremonial Elder Proclamation from the Qutekcak Native Tribe of Alaska; and the National Social Worker Leadership Resolution awarded by FFCA. Each recognition stands as a symbol of his lifelong dedication to service, equity, and the power of human connection.

Author and Storyteller

Dr. Rodríguez is the author of the forthcoming book The Purpose Within — Like the Phoenix Out of the Ashes, to be released in April 2026. The book interweaves memoir, leadership philosophy, and spiritual reflection, inviting readers to discover their own purpose within adversity and emerge renewed, like the phoenix from its flame.

Personal Values and Legacy

At the core of Dr. Rodríguez's mission lies faith, humility, and love for family. He draws daily inspiration from his children—Antonio, (Cassandra), Amber Rodríguez-Young, LMSW (Daric), and Jazmín Rodríguez—and his beloved grandchildren Ariston and Adalena. Whether mentoring emerging leaders, advising lawmakers, or speaking to communities in need of hope, he lives by the principle that leadership is service and service is love in motion. Dr. Rodríguez's personal values—rooted in love, empathy, and a deep respect for humanity—are the driving force behind every facet of his work. Above all, he treasures his role as a father and draws inspiration from his own children to create initiatives that support families and strengthen communities. His unwavering dedication to fostering wellness, equity, and opportunity continues to make a profound impact, earning him global recognition as one of the most influential social work, mental health, and child welfare figures.

"Leadership is not about titles. It is about being water—shaping, flowing, and giving life wherever you go." — Bruce Lee.

Today, Dr. James C. Rodríguez continues to guide the Fathers & Families Coalition of America with the same devotion that marked his first day as a combat medic: with courage, compassion, and the conviction that every life can be repaired and made whole. His legacy shines across continents, reminding the world that true strength, like gold in kintsugi, is found in our cracks—and in how we choose to heal them.

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America International Trainer • Clinical Social Worker • Veteran • Advocate for Equity, Fatherhood, and Mental Health “I am a Boricua. A dad. ... Show more

Bryan Cassady

Bryan Cassady

Bryan is not your average speaker. He is a professor, worked as a consultant, authored two international bestseller books, serial entrepreneur and now with a mission: to teach 1 million innovators by 2027.

He has built companies in 6 countries, and trained 40,000+ leaders.

He’s also a former professional racquetball player turned mathematician, a United Nations professional who speaks four languages.

A researcher who has published on innovation, alignment, and social-media addiction. He’s co-created books with 50+ experts worldwide, including the international bestsellers CYCLES and The Generative Organization.

Bryan has lived on a beach with startups, painted huts in Africa, and sat in boardrooms on five continents. Wherever he goes, it’s people first: show up, do the work, keep your word.

Core belief: innovation isn’t about tools or technology. It’s about helping people believe they can make things better.

Bryan is not your average speaker. He is a professor, worked as a consultant, authored two international bestseller books, serial entrepreneur and now with a mission: to teach 1 million innovators by 2027. He has built companies in 6 countries, a... Show more

Emanuel Toledo

Emanuel Toledo

Emanuel Toledo es Licenciado en Gestión Pública y Analista-Científico de Datos. Con más de 13 años de experiencia en el sector público, especializado en administración, auditoría y análisis presupuestario , ha impulsado en los últimos años su desarrollo hacia la tecnología, liderando la transformación digital desde el análisis, visualización, ciencia de datos e inteligencia artificial. Es CEO y fundador de Thinking OUT!, una consultora digital especializada en datos, comprometido con la inclusión, la innovación y el aprendizaje continuo. Interesado en colaborar con proyectos de impacto social que integren tecnología, educación y equidad, Emanuel es un firme creyente de que la decisión política y las herramientas accesibles son la clave para un servicio público más eficiente y transparente en América Latina.

Emanuel Toledo es Licenciado en Gestión Pública y Analista-Científico de Datos. Con más de 13 años de experiencia en el sector público, especializado en administración, auditoría y análisis presupuestario , ha impulsado en los últimos años su desarro... Show more

Ashley René Casey

Ashley René Casey

Ashley René is a speaker, strategist, and founder of Presence Over Pixels, a St. Louis–based company helping people take back control of their time, focus, and relationships in a tech-dominated world. With a background in corporate leadership and a passion for human connection, Ashley René teaches professionals how to set boundaries with their devices, stay present in high-demand environments, and lead with intention - online and off. Her work lives at the intersection of wellness, leadership, and digital culture, offering practical tools for anyone looking to thrive without burning out. When she's not leading workshops or speaking on stages, Ashley René is performing with her band, Bourbon Jury, and actively engaged in the local arts scene of St Louis.

Ashley René is a speaker, strategist, and founder of Presence Over Pixels, a St. Louis–based company helping people take back control of their time, focus, and relationships in a tech-dominated world. With a background in corporate leadership and a p... Show more

Jonas Hulthén

Jonas Hulthén

Hello!

My name is Jonas Hulthén and I'm a software engineer at Nordnet who loves to learn, collaborate and spread positivity!

Hello! My name is Jonas Hulthén and I'm a software engineer at Nordnet who loves to learn, collaborate and spread positivity! Show more

Yanyi .

Yanyi .

Yanyi is the author of Dream of the Divided Field (One World 2022), The Year of Blue Water (Yale 2019), and the writing advice column The Reading (2020– ). He teaches poetry in the MFA Program at Warren Wilson College and at large. In 2023, he founded the Asian American Literary Archive.

Yanyi is the author of Dream of the Divided Field (One World 2022), The Year of Blue Water (Yale 2019), and the writing advice column The Reading (2020– ). He teaches poetry in the MFA Program at Warren Wilson College and at large. In 2023, he founde... Show more

Dr. Anna Lill

Dr. Anna Lill

Dr. Anna Lill, DSocSci, is a Prevention Scientist, High School Health Education and Psychology Teacher, and Fellow with the Center for Psychedelic Public Health. She earned her doctorate in Prevention Science from Wilmington University, where her dissertation, Healing the Root Cause: Classic Psychedelics as Prevention Interventions for Alcohol Use Disorder, addressed a previously unexamined gap in the prevention science literature by introducing the first formal exploration of the potential for psychedelic assisted prevention for Alcohol Use Disorder. She also holds graduate and undergraduate degrees in human services and behavioral science. With more than a decade of experience in behavioral health, addiction recovery, and education, Dr. Lill integrates research, teaching, and advocacy to advance health equity and harm reduction. As a licensed educator and Co-Owner of TE Recovery Homes, she is deeply committed to bridging science and compassion to transform prevention and public health by advancing evidence-informed, equity-centered approaches that address root causes of suffering, strengthen protective factors, and expand ethical pathways to care across education, treatment, and community systems.

Dr. Anna Lill, DSocSci, is a Prevention Scientist, High School Health Education and Psychology Teacher, and Fellow with the Center for Psychedelic Public Health. She earned her doctorate in Prevention Science from Wilmington University, where her dis... Show more

Chris Honda

Chris Honda

Professional Goober | Head Janitor and Cook for the Honda Household | Sometimes does Security + GRC @ Whistic | Bad at Making Jokes and Writing Bios

Professional Goober | Head Janitor and Cook for the Honda Household | Sometimes does Security + GRC @ Whistic | Bad at Making Jokes and Writing Bios Show more

Christian Lenz

Christian Lenz

With over 25 years of expertise in the Business Central domain, Christian has led transformative projects, optimizing processes and driving growth. His mission is to create value-driven work environments that empower teams. He has also created and hosted numerous events and learning environments for internal and external developers, helping them update and expand their skills.

As an accomplished speaker, Christian has shared insights at international conferences, including Directions EMEA and BCTechDays. His sessions or workshops provoke viewpoint shifts, offering strategic frameworks to keep organizations competitive in a dynamic landscape.

Beyond technical skills, Christian’s education in Design Thinking, Theory U, and Future Leadership equips him as a certified Organizational Designer. His holistic approach blends creativity, empathy, and strategic thinking to drive impactful change, even in complex situations where no prior knowledge exists.

Connect with Christian to explore innovative solutions and elevate your organization’s potential. 🎙️🚀

With over 25 years of expertise in the Business Central domain, Christian has led transformative projects, optimizing processes and driving growth. His mission is to create value-driven work environments that empower teams. He has also created and ho... Show more

Sam Cranford

Sam Cranford

Long-time agile jiggler, eXtreme programmer and agile catalyst, amateur bon vivant. Bilingual EN/FR - fr_US

Long-time agile jiggler, eXtreme programmer and agile catalyst, amateur bon vivant. Bilingual EN/FR - fr_US Show more

Benoît Darroux

Benoît Darroux

As enthusiastic Agilist, I spent a long time in the world of Agility applied to large industries and I gradually understood why this model was withering away year after year without us accepting the real causes. First as a project player, then as a trainer and finally as a coach, I'm working to ensure that modern Agile models are used less strictly and more respectfully of people.

You can find my work in my book: https://tinyurl.com/darroux

As enthusiastic Agilist, I spent a long time in the world of Agility applied to large industries and I gradually understood why this model was withering away year after year without us accepting the real causes. First as a project player, then as a t... Show more

Michaela Gyasi-Agyei

Michaela Gyasi-Agyei

Michaela Gyasi-Agyei is a lawyer and policy professional who is interested in the intersection between technology, policy and digital rights. She holds a Bachelors of Economics/Laws (Honours) from the University of Queensland, and graduated as Valedictorian of my cohort. Michaela has worked in government agencies and private organisations advising on privacy, data governance, and corporate responsibility. She is currently participating in the She Codes Plus and Cyber5050 programs. In 2024, Michaela was selected to join the inaugural cohort of the Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) Australia.

Michaela Gyasi-Agyei is a lawyer and policy professional who is interested in the intersection between technology, policy and digital rights. She holds a Bachelors of Economics/Laws (Honours) from the University of Queensland, and graduated as Valedi... Show more

Luca Minudel

Luca Minudel

Luca Minudel (he/him) is an Agility/XP/Lean, Complexity-thinking, and modern Product/Engineering Management advisor, mentor, coach, change agent for hire. He is an organisational gardener, culture curator, collaboration orchestrator, and delivery facilitator with over 20 years of experience in professional software development. He is also an author and a speaker.

He contributed to the adoption of lean and agile practices by Ferrari's F1 racing team. For ThoughtWorks, he delivered training, coaching, assessments and organisational transformations in top-tier organisations in the UK, Europe and the United States. He worked as Agile Transformation Lead, Head of Agility, Interim Product Director, Lean/Agile Practice Lead, and as Lean/Agile Coach in companies such as Lloyds, BP, The AA, Japan Tobacco International, HSBC, LexisNexis, Marsh McLennan.

Luca is the founder and CEO at SmHarter.com, a company that helps organisations turn their way of working into their competitive advantage.

https://www.smharter.com/blog/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucaminudel/
https://bsky.app/profile/lucaminudel.bsky.social/
https://mstdn.social/@lukadotnet/
https://twitter.com/lukadotnet (inactive)

Luca Minudel (he/him) is an Agility/XP/Lean, Complexity-thinking, and modern Product/Engineering Management advisor, mentor, coach, change agent for hire. He is an organisational gardener, culture curator, collaboration orchestrator, and delivery fa... Show more

Arjun Sharda

Arjun Sharda

Arjun Sharda is the 14-year-old Executive Director of TLEEM (Arabic: تعليم), Texas's largest K-12 networking nonprofit with over 4,000 K-12 and college student members from 11 countries through 37 clubs. Aside from TLEEM, he's been programming for over seven years and has written for outlets such as the Washington Post and the Austin-American Statesman. He has received recognition from Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas State Board of Education.

Arjun Sharda is the 14-year-old Executive Director of TLEEM (Arabic: تعليم), Texas's largest K-12 networking nonprofit with over 4,000 K-12 and college student members from 11 countries through 37 clubs. Aside from TLEEM, he's been programming for ov... Show more

Aanvi Dogra

Aanvi Dogra

Aanvi Dogra is a senior at Dublin Jerome High School who is also attending Columbus State Community College to earn her Computer Science Cybersecurity Major AAS. She is passionate about technology and learning about new technological advancements. She takes pride in uplifting her community, especially young students and she does this by volunteer organizations and clubs. In her free time, she enjoys working with kids and fostering a passion for STEM within children, as well as spending time with her family and friends.

Aanvi Dogra is a senior at Dublin Jerome High School who is also attending Columbus State Community College to earn her Computer Science Cybersecurity Major AAS. She is passionate about technology and learning about new technological advancements. Sh... Show more

Seconde Nimenya

Seconde Nimenya

Renowned for her ability to captivate audiences globally, Seconde Nimenya draws on her rich life experiences and multicultural heritage to inspire and empower individuals. With a compelling repertoire of life-changing insights, she offers invaluable perspectives on navigating adversities and achieving personal growth.

Nimenya is an author with five published books, including her latest, "Unlocking Diversity: How to Create Inclusive Cultures in a World of Differences," a book that delves into the timely and thought-provoking topic of inclusive leadership. Her TEDx talk, "We Are Not All That Different," is an exploration of race and identity constructs that has garnered widespread acclaim and continues to serve as a powerful catalyst for embracing diversity across the globe.

Recognized for her leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, Nimenya has been instrumental in forging connections across varied multicultural communities. Her academic credentials include a master's degree in business management, and she is pursuing a graduate certificate in equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging leadership from Harvard University.

For further details about Seconde Nimenya's work, visit: https://www.bechangegroup.com/home

Renowned for her ability to captivate audiences globally, Seconde Nimenya draws on her rich life experiences and multicultural heritage to inspire and empower individuals. With a compelling repertoire of life-changing insights, she offers invaluable ... Show more

Michael Bower

Michael Bower

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

Crux Conception, M. Psych

Crux Conception, M. Psych

CRUX IS AN EXPERT ANALYST ON CBS, THE REAL CSI: MIAMI.
Click The Link To See Crux in The Real CSI: MIAMI

https://youtu.be/UsVswWyyFZg?si=L9lca4H98xypbGRz&t=49

Crux resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and has over 20 years of law enforcement experience (Now retired), criminal profiling, and teaching experience (adjunct professor). Crux has now taken his years of experience, education research, and training; to incorporate novel methods of teaching/learning. Crux has utilized his background in Psychology, Team Building, and Behavioral Profiling to implement said methods to take out the law-enforcement aspect and make these skills people/civilian practical.

#Cybersecurity, #CriminalProfile, #Ninja, #Keynote, #Speaker, #TeamBuilding #TeamDynamics #TechPsychology, #Security, #DevopSec
Law Enforcement experience:

•Homicide Detective
•Criminal Profiler
•Gang Unit Specialist Detective
•Hostage Negotiator
•Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Officer
•School Resources Officer (SRO)
•Five years as a Special Agent with the DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND (DHS)

Now retired, Crux worked as a Homicide Detective, Criminal Profiler, and Hostage Negotiator with the Fort Wayne (Indiana) Police Dept.

Teaching experience:
Currently, Crux is an Adjunct Professor:

•Psychology
•Business Psychology
•Social Media Psychology
•Criminal Profiling
•Criminal Behavior
•Computer Psychology
•Sociology (Group Dynamics)

Education:

•Bachelor of Science degree; Criminology (Ball State University, 1994).

•Master’s degree; Forensic Psychology (Walden University, 2012).

•Currently, a Ph.D. Candidate (Forensic Psychology) at Walden University

CRUX IS AN EXPERT ANALYST ON CBS, THE REAL CSI: MIAMI. Click The Link To See Crux in The Real CSI: MIAMI https://youtu.be/UsVswWyyFZg?si=L9lca4H98xypbGRz&t=49 Crux resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and has over 20 years of law enforcement experi... Show more

Rob Litjens

Rob Litjens

I am a DBA since 1997 and have worked with SQL6, 6,5 and upwards. My interest are merely platform based, but also interested in performance and monitoring. With the requirements changing I am working in DevSEcOps for SQL for my employer. Security is getting more focus. That means I am trying to setup builds that are secure by designed and securely designed. Tools help with that.

I am a DBA since 1997 and have worked with SQL6, 6,5 and upwards. My interest are merely platform based, but also interested in performance and monitoring. With the requirements changing I am working in DevSEcOps for SQL for my employer. Security is ... Show more

Luca Fregoso

Luca Fregoso

Developing since the early 2000s, my passion for networking has led me to manage work teams, projects and training courses. Geek to the core, I am constantly on the lookout for tech news.

Developing since the early 2000s, my passion for networking has led me to manage work teams, projects and training courses. Geek to the core, I am constantly on the lookout for tech news. Show more

Nyah Macklin

Nyah Macklin

Nyah Macklin is a seasoned researcher and speaker on topics around AI, ML, Ethics, Governance, and Responsibility. Nyah serves as a Senior Developer Advocate for Artificial Intelligence at Neo4j, specializing in GraphRAG, knowledge graphs, and AI-driven developer tooling where Nyah has built high-impact technical communities and led initiatives that advance a critical understanding of AI and its use cases. They are also the Founder & CTO of Afros in AI, a technical community dedicated to showcasing the multifaceted nature of artificial intelligence. Beyond Nyah's technical expertise, Nyah has a background in government leadership and technology policy, having served as Chief of Staff in the U.S. state government, where they helped shape tech-driven legislative initiatives and equity-driven legislation. When not immersed in their work, Nyah cares about empowering, teaching, and tutoring engineers, live-streaming technical deep dives, and building open-source tools that make software more accessible, explainable, and community-driven.

Nyah Macklin is a seasoned researcher and speaker on topics around AI, ML, Ethics, Governance, and Responsibility. Nyah serves as a Senior Developer Advocate for Artificial Intelligence at Neo4j, specializing in GraphRAG, knowledge graphs, and AI-dri... Show more

Ashwin Hariharan

Ashwin Hariharan

Ashwin Hariharan is a Developer Advocate at Redis, with over eight years of experience as a full-stack software engineer. He's passionate about making complex ideas simple, helping developers build faster, more reliable systems, and understand the "why" behind the tools they use. His current work focuses on applied AI, and exploring how intelligent, real-time applications can be built using retrieval-augmented generation, vector search, agentic AI, and other emerging technologies.

Outside of tech, he spends time learning piano and basic music production, hitting the gym, and exploring big questions about how the world works. He's also fascinated by how people think and learn, often channeling that curiosity into talks, writing, and conversations about science and critical thinking.

Ashwin Hariharan is a Developer Advocate at Redis, with over eight years of experience as a full-stack software engineer. He's passionate about making complex ideas simple, helping developers build faster, more reliable systems, and understand the "w... Show more

Candice Grobler

Candice Grobler

Candice Grobler is the founder of Candid Collab, a systems-savvy community consultancy helping solo founders and stretched teams build community-led marketing engines that scale revenue.

After a CPTSD diagnosis and a “you’re unemployable” jab from a well-meaning manager, Candice left the cubicle grind to forge a new model: one where neuro-spicy, outside-the-norm entrepreneurs could thrive through mentorship, scrappy systems, and candid community.

Today, she’s a sought-after mentor and speaker known for transforming sticky-note chaos into streamlined workflows and turning feast-or-famine floundering into steady, soul-aligned revenue. Her live talks, workshops, and interviews blend radical candour with practical playbooks, because life’s too short to build someone else’s empire (or burn out building your own).

Candice has helped dozens of founders grow recurring revenue, reduce burnout, and build communities that market for them, without agency retainers, bro-marketing gloss, or a selling out.

Candice Grobler is the founder of Candid Collab, a systems-savvy community consultancy helping solo founders and stretched teams build community-led marketing engines that scale revenue. After a CPTSD diagnosis and a “you’re unemployable” jab from... Show more

Michael Braun

Michael Braun

56 - verheiratet - 3 erwachsene Kinder - natur und insbesondere Berge verbunden.
mehr als 25 Jahre Erfahrung im Bereich PeopleDevelopment und PeopleManagement (angestellt und selbstständig)
14 Jahre Geschäftsführer bei :verteko Unternehmen für systematische Personalentwicklung
6 Jahre Führungskraft Deutsche Telekom IT
Seit Anfang des Jahres unterstütze ich als CPO (Chief Passion Officer) der Passioneers GmbH mit all meiner Leidenschaft unsere Kunden neue, menschenzentrierte und nachhaltige Wege in der Unternehmensentwicklung zu gehen.

56 - verheiratet - 3 erwachsene Kinder - natur und insbesondere Berge verbunden. mehr als 25 Jahre Erfahrung im Bereich PeopleDevelopment und PeopleManagement (angestellt und selbstständig) 14 Jahre Geschäftsführer bei :verteko Unternehmen für syst... Show more

Luisa Escalona

Luisa Escalona

With over 17 years in the software industry, Luisa has evolved from being passionate about writing great code to focusing on building and nurturing high-performing teams. A Certified Encouragement Consultant and Empowering People in the Workplace Facilitator, she brings together deep technical expertise and a talent for fostering human-centered growth.

Since 2019, Luisa has delivered engaging talks and hands-on workshops that inspire teams and individuals to achieve their full potential. Her unique approach empowers organizations to drive both technological innovation and positive, sustainable change through collaboration and impactful leadership.

With over 17 years in the software industry, Luisa has evolved from being passionate about writing great code to focusing on building and nurturing high-performing teams. A Certified Encouragement Consultant and Empowering People in the Workplace Fac... Show more

Víctor Izquierdo Montes

Víctor Izquierdo Montes

I am a 32-year-old from Córdoba with a lifelong passion for process optimization. Thanks to the versatility AI offers, I enjoy applying it to my projects as a Power Platform specialist at MDW Partners.

Originally, I pursued double majors in Business Administration and Management and Law, and I hold an MBA. However, I've always been fascinated by computer science. After several years of using reports for analytical decision-making, I decided to shift my focus to creating them directly.

Later, I discovered the potential of Power Platform, and I now focus on developing complete solutions using the tools available on this platform. With the growing interest in AI among companies, I incorporate Azure OpenAI tools like GPT, DALL·E, and Whisper into many of my projects.

I am a 32-year-old from Córdoba with a lifelong passion for process optimization. Thanks to the versatility AI offers, I enjoy applying it to my projects as a Power Platform specialist at MDW Partners. Originally, I pursued double majors in Busine... Show more

Steph Houle

Steph Houle

Steph Houle is a design leader, coach, and consultant with over 15 years of experience shaping digital products from startups to Fortune 1 companies alike, including Walmart, Macy’s, and Calvin Klein. She blends her background in UX/UI and product design leadership with a deep commitment to human-centered design practices, helping teams and individuals navigate complexity with clarity, creativity, and resilience.

Through her coaching practice, Steph guides women and creative leaders to cultivate self-expression, intuitive authority, and sustainable ways of working. Her talks invite audiences into both practical frameworks and reflective pauses, bridging design methodologies with personal leadership.

Steph Houle is a design leader, coach, and consultant with over 15 years of experience shaping digital products from startups to Fortune 1 companies alike, including Walmart, Macy’s, and Calvin Klein. She blends her background in UX/UI and product de... Show more

Alan Yeh

Alan Yeh

Alan Yeh is a PhD candidate in French at the University of California, Berkeley, specializing in refugitude aesthetics, memory, and food in 20th- and 21st-century French and francophone literature. Foregrounding refugee experiences and epistemologies, his dissertation combines archival research and oral histories with close readings of culinary encounters and tensions in diasporic Vietnamese literature in order to uncover transdiasporic approaches to care through feeding.

Alan Yeh is a PhD candidate in French at the University of California, Berkeley, specializing in refugitude aesthetics, memory, and food in 20th- and 21st-century French and francophone literature. Foregrounding refugee experiences and epistemologies... Show more

Lianna Adams

Lianna Adams

Recognised as one of the Top 10 Rising Women in Crypto 2023, Lianna is architecting the future at the convergence of art, technology, and social impact. Her thought leadership has graced global stages including the World Economic Forum at Davos 2024, COP28, and TEDx Youth, where she champions a humanity-first approach to Web3 innovation.

As a dynamic podcast host for Wirex and sought-after speaker, Lianna illuminates critical conversations around arts, technology, mental health, and ethical innovation. Her expertise has earned her the prestigious "Social Impact & Ethics" recognition in the OC100 by ForbesWeb3, Animoca Brands, and Open Campus 2024 initiative.

Deeply committed to inclusive innovation, Lianna advises ARTXV, amplifying neurodivergent artists' voices in the digital realm. Her track record of leveraging blockchain technology for humanitarian causes showcases the transformative power of Web3 for social good. As former VP and Curation Lead at The Dream Conduit, she pioneered pathways for creatives into the Web3 ecosystem.

Beyond technology, Lianna's dedication to community wellness manifests through her Weekly Mental Health Check-Ins and meditation sessions, while serving as NED to Mental Health Spaces Collective. A member of the Top Tier Impact Network, she exemplifies leadership that drives meaningful change.

Through Impactful Artistry, Lianna continues to forge new frontiers where technology meets humanity, creating ripples of positive transformation across the digital landscape.

Recognised as one of the Top 10 Rising Women in Crypto 2023, Lianna is architecting the future at the convergence of art, technology, and social impact. Her thought leadership has graced global stages including the World Economic Forum at Davos 2024,... Show more

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