Moran Weber is an entrepreneur, speaker, and the Founder of Women on Stage, a public speaking training platform amplifying women’s voices and helping tech professionals share their expertise with confidence. Formerly a Tech Lead at Wix, she has over a decade of experience in software development and holds an MA in Social Psychology, along with a BSc in Computer Science and Psychology.

A former software engineer who once struggled with stage fright and impostor syndrome, Moran turned her biggest fear into her life’s mission: stepping onto countless stages, organizing dozens of tech events, building communities, and training hundreds of engineers to find their voice, driven by her belief that everyone has a story worth telling.

She’s now building products that help professionals become impactful speakers, combining her technical background with deep psychological insight to help tech leaders turn complex ideas into clear, compelling stories that inspire audiences and create lasting impact.

Moran Weber is an entrepreneur, speaker, and the Founder of Women on Stage, a public speaking training platform amplifying women’s voices and helping tech professionals share their expertise with confidence. Formerly a Tech Lead at Wix, she has over ... Show more

With over a decade of experience in product management and software engineering, I contribute to innovation in AI-powered advertising at Smartly. My role emphasizes programmatic solutions, DSP integrations, and creative strategies, enabling impactful ad campaigns across diverse platforms.

Previously, at Remerge, I collaborated on DSP advancements that optimized programmatic advertising. Known for my analytical approach and dedication, I am motivated to elevate the ad tech ecosystem through collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking strategies.

With over a decade of experience in product management and software engineering, I contribute to innovation in AI-powered advertising at Smartly. My role emphasizes programmatic solutions, DSP integrations, and creative strategies, enabling impactful... Show more

Lea Hildermeier ist Projektmanagerin im HFD/CHE und dort u.a. für den Think Tank "Well-Being und Mental Health im digitalen Zeitalter an Hochschulen" zuständig. Zuvor studierte sie Anglistik, Erziehungswissenschaft und Psychologie an der Universität Bielefeld.
Als DigitalChangeMaker der Kohorte 2024 engagierte sich Lea in den Bereichen studentische Partizipation, Student Wellbeing und dem Einsatz von Künstlicher Intelligenz in der Hochschulbildung. Seit September 2024 engagiert sich Lea im Common Grounds Forum, damit junge Menschen ihre Stimme in bildungs- und digitalpolitischen Anliegen einbringen können.

Lea Hildermeier ist Projektmanagerin im HFD/CHE und dort u.a. für den Think Tank "Well-Being und Mental Health im digitalen Zeitalter an Hochschulen" zuständig. Zuvor studierte sie Anglistik, Erziehungswissenschaft und Psychologie an der Universität... Show more

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

Cybersecurity professional with experience in Penetration Testing and Cyber Threat Intelligence. With a strong background in security assessments across diverse environments, I have developed expertise in risk evaluation, application and system security, privacy, and technical project management. My passion for social engineering enables me to approach security from a unique angle, bridging human and technical vulnerabilities to strengthen defense strategies.
Currently, I focus on Cyber Threat Intelligence, analyzing emerging threats and attacker behavior to enhance proactive security measures. I have also begun a master’s program in Criminology and Criminal Behavior to deepen my specialization in cybercriminal profiling, combining technical indicators with behavioral insights to better understand adversaries and improve prevention and response. In parallel, I’m pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology to further strengthen my understanding of human behavior, decision-making, and the social dynamics that influence cyber risk.

Cybersecurity professional with experience in Penetration Testing and Cyber Threat Intelligence. With a strong background in security assessments across diverse environments, I have developed expertise in risk evaluation, application and system secur... Show more

Neha Lagoo Ratnakar is a tiny speaker with a big name and an even bigger message. Her talks are part wakeup call and part kick in the behind.

Neha’s bestselling book, Back on Your Feet (Goodreads 4.5, Amazon 4.7) has helped hundreds of women start their career comeback journey and she’s spent hours directly coaching them.

But throughout her career spanning 8 countries, and her work as the Head of Education at a non-profit in Europe, she was shocked to hear that it was difficult for leaders to bridge the gender numbers despite their best intentions.

So Neha made it her mission to help organisations bridge this gap and support women on their journey.

What she has to say may offend you, could provoke you, but will definitely make you think. If you’re looking for a keynote speaker who can talk from authentic global experiences infused with actionable insights, then Neha is your choice.

Neha Lagoo Ratnakar is a tiny speaker with a big name and an even bigger message. Her talks are part wakeup call and part kick in the behind. Neha’s bestselling book, Back on Your Feet (Goodreads 4.5, Amazon 4.7) has helped hundreds of women star... Show more

Enthusiastic People Analytics professional and organizational sociologist with over 10 years of experience in HR and more than 5 years in Business Intelligence (BI). She is passionate about transforming HR data into actionable insights that support strategic decision-making and improve organizational performance. She holds a master’s degree in Economic and Organizational Sociology, giving her a unique perspective on the social and behavioral dimensions of workforce analytics.

Founder of ReadyHR.eu, a consultancy service that helps small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) build practical, data-driven HR reporting and People Analytics capabilities.

Based in Kecskemét, near Budapest, Hungary, proud parent of two boys. Outside of work, she loves dancing and is dedicated to continuous learning, always exploring new tools and ideas that elevate the HR analytics profession.

Enthusiastic People Analytics professional and organizational sociologist with over 10 years of experience in HR and more than 5 years in Business Intelligence (BI). She is passionate about transforming HR data into actionable insights that support s... Show more

Dennis Nerush is the Director of AI at Elementor, where he leads the company's AI strategy and guides teams through the integration of GenAI technologies that enhance productivity while preserving human creativity and accountability.

With over 15 years of experience as a developer, manager, director, and adviser across multiple tech companies and startups, Dennis has dedicated his career to building people-first cultures rooted in continuous learning, curiosity, and growth. He believes that when individuals thrive, teams and businesses flourish, a philosophy that has guided him in founding dozens of teams and mentoring over 100 managers.

Dennis is a seasoned public speaker and writer who shares his insights on AI integration, leadership, and team performance at international conferences. He's passionate about helping leaders develop the skills and confidence to excel in a world where human leadership and AI collaboration go hand in hand.

In his free time, Dennis loves cooking and spending time with his kids. His main goal is to help people reach the next level.

Dennis Nerush is the Director of AI at Elementor, where he leads the company's AI strategy and guides teams through the integration of GenAI technologies that enhance productivity while preserving human creativity and accountability. With over 15 ... Show more

J’aide les équipes et les organisations, en France et particulièrement dans la région nantaise, à adopter l’agilité. Spécialisé dans l’accompagnement des dirigeants et des managers, je les aide à naviguer dans la complexité, à renforcer leur leadership et à structurer leur gouvernance en s’appuyant sur des outils agiles concrets et une prise de décision éclairée.
Je place l’humain au cœur des transformations, convaincu que l’amélioration continue est une opportunité pour chacun. J’encourage un apprentissage permanent et le développement de l’esprit critique, indispensables pour naviguer dans un monde en constante évolution. Mon rôle est d’ouvrir des perspectives, de challenger les certitudes et de créer des environnements propices à l’expérimentation et à l’adaptabilité.

J’aide les équipes et les organisations, en France et particulièrement dans la région nantaise, à adopter l’agilité. Spécialisé dans l’accompagnement des dirigeants et des managers, je les aide à naviguer dans la complexité, à renforcer leur leadersh... Show more

Professional Goober | Head Janitor and Cook for the Honda Household | Security, GRC, Privacy, & AI @ Plotly | Bad at Making Jokes and Writing Bios

Professional Goober | Head Janitor and Cook for the Honda Household | Security, GRC, Privacy, & AI @ Plotly | Bad at Making Jokes and Writing Bios Show more

Amanda thrives at the intersection of improvisation and organizational psychology to help transform organizations. She believes the vulnerability required to improvise and create something together on stage as a team can be translated to a professional group of any size. She uses the philosophy of improvisation and the power of "Yes, And" as a catalyst for positive change within an organization. Her active listening approach to coaching focuses on teaching individuals and teams the difference between listening to respond and listening to understand.

Amanda was the Founder/CEO of Dallas Comedy House (2009-2020), where she oversaw day to day operations of DCH. She was the founder and Executive Producer of the Dallas Comedy Festival (2009-2019). She's the Co-founder of ComedyHouse, a professional training and coaching service, and the co-author of the REALway® leadership training program. She's currently a Senior Managing Consultant-HR Strategic Business Partner at IBM Consulting.

Amanda received her Bachelor of Science in Journalism and a Minor in Business Administration from Texas A&M University. She completed her Masters in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Harvard University in May 2024. She earned her Graduate Certificate in Organizational Behavior from Harvard University and a Certificate in Building a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace from Cornell. Amanda is an Adjunct Professor at the SMU Cox School of Business MBA program where she teaches a Management course: Organizational Change and Innovation by Design. She's a graduate of the 2018 Leadership Dallas Cohort with the Dallas Regional Chamber, where she continued her commitment as the Leadership Consultant for 2019-2020 and a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas Cohort.

Amanda thrives at the intersection of improvisation and organizational psychology to help transform organizations. She believes the vulnerability required to improvise and create something together on stage as a team can be translated to a profession... Show more

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

I am from Belgium, the country of chocolate and beers.
I am one of the pioneers of Agile in Belgium, I carried out my first Scrum project back in 2008.
I am also a Certified Scrum Trainer from the Scrum Alliance.

In addition to my Agile hat, I also have one foot in the world of Psychology. I am a life coach, therapist and author of the book “Discovering soul families” https://www.amazon.fr/dp/236188299X which has sold more than 7,000 copies. My book talks about a model that helps us understand ourselves and others. All based on our greatest strengths, often underexploited, instinct, intuition, connection to others and the quest for meaning.

I am from Belgium, the country of chocolate and beers. I am one of the pioneers of Agile in Belgium, I carried out my first Scrum project back in 2008. I am also a Certified Scrum Trainer from the Scrum Alliance. In addition to my Agile hat, I a... Show more

Brian Madden is a renowned workplace AI strategist, future of work expert, and dynamic speaker with over 30 years of experience in digital transformation. As a Technology Officer and Futurist at Citrix, he's at the forefront of helping organizations navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in the workplace.

Expertise & Current Focus
• Workplace AI strategy and implementation
• Future of work and digital workplace transformation
• AI's impact on employee productivity and HR practices
• Ethical considerations of AI in the workplace
• Bridging the gap between technology and human resources

Career Highlights
• Currently a VP, Technology Officer & Futurist, Citrix
• Creator of the Workplace AI Strategy Guide project, a comprehensive, continuously-updated resource for organizations adapting to AI
• Author of 6 books and over 2,000 articles on technology and workplace transformation
• Founder of BriForum, the largest vendor-neutral End-User Computing conference (2005-2016)
• Former Distinguished Technologist at VMware, focusing on the Future of Work
• Creator and leader of multiple influential tech community programs (Citrix CTP, VMware EUC vExperts)

Speaking and Thought Leadership
• Delivered 1000+ talks worldwide on technology's impact on work and productivity
• Ranked #1 speaker at major tech conferences multiple times
• Regular contributor to discussions on AI ethics, productivity, and workplace dynamics
• Passionate about democratizing knowledge and fostering inclusive tech communities

Brian's unique blend of technical expertise, strategic insight, and engaging presentation style makes him an ideal speaker for conferences exploring the intersection of AI, HR, and the future of work. He excels at breaking down complex technological concepts in humorous and relatable ways for diverse audiences, from C-suite executives to HR professionals and IT teams.

Brian Madden is a renowned workplace AI strategist, future of work expert, and dynamic speaker with over 30 years of experience in digital transformation. As a Technology Officer and Futurist at Citrix, he's at the forefront of helping organizations ... Show more

Paul-Louis Nech is a Machine Learning engineer with 10 years of experience crafting software for a global audience.
Throughout his career, he has leveraged advanced algorithms to empower developers and users alike.
From SwiftKey to Algolia, Paul-Louis has built tools that bridge the gap between state-of-the-art algorithms (which work in the lab) and end products (which succeed in the wild).
This requires not only great technology, but more importantly great user-experience, to make sure you build something people want!

Paul-Louis Nech is a Machine Learning engineer with 10 years of experience crafting software for a global audience. Throughout his career, he has leveraged advanced algorithms to empower developers and users alike. From SwiftKey to Algolia, Paul-L... Show more

Aubrey Wade is a seasoned consulting professional, speaker, coach, and blogger with a passion for transforming workplace relationships and driving positive change. Based in Memphis, TN, she specializes in helping organizations improve processes, build strong teams, and guide C-suite leaders in driving company-wide transformation. With a hands-on, results-driven approach, Aubrey isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo to help companies reach their full potential.

Armed with a degree in Psychology and over 20 years of experience in technology, Aubrey has successfully partnered with multiple Fortune 300 companies to enhance team dynamics, streamline processes, and deliver consistent, successful releases. Her expertise spans organizational transformation, enterprise reporting, and optimizing performance at all levels.

Outside of her consulting work, Aubrey is a devoted wife, sister, and mother to three daughters, and she enjoys speaking and teaching across the country. Her greatest passion is helping people grow — starting with herself — through personal development, professional coaching, and leadership guidance.

Aubrey Wade is a seasoned consulting professional, speaker, coach, and blogger with a passion for transforming workplace relationships and driving positive change. Based in Memphis, TN, she specializes in helping organizations improve processes, buil... Show more

Ancienne astrophysicienne aujourd’hui coach d'organisation, experte en engagement et coach professionnelle depuis plus de 8 ans. J’interviens auprès des entreprises pour les aider à se transformer et à renforcer l’engagement, tout en accompagnant individuellement dirigeant·es et particuliers dans leurs objectifs personnels et professionnels. TEDx speaker, je crée des conférences interactives en mobilisant les sciences humaines, une approche systémique et des expériences concrètes d’accompagnement en entreprise.
Mon objectif : faire bouger les lignes sur des sujets qui impactent profondément notre quotidien.

Ancienne astrophysicienne aujourd’hui coach d'organisation, experte en engagement et coach professionnelle depuis plus de 8 ans. J’interviens auprès des entreprises pour les aider à se transformer et à renforcer l’engagement, tout en accompagnant ind... Show more

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

Suzana Melo is a full-stack developer and a certified AWS Cloud Practitioner who transitioned into software development in her 40s, with no tech background. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communications and has over 20 years of experience. As a strong advocate of diversity and inclusion, she actively works on initiatives that empower women and underrepresented groups in tech, mentors juniors and graduates, and drives tech community enablement across APAC, Europe, and the Americas. Suzana is an AWS Community Builder, co-organizer of the AWS User Group Stockholm, AWS User Group Skåne, and AWS Women's User Group Sweden. She volunteers as a Social Media Specialist for Women in Tech Sweden, and owns Suzana Melo's Blog - Empowering Through Tech, where she writes about cloud, software development, career change, and soft skills.

Suzana Melo is a full-stack developer and a certified AWS Cloud Practitioner who transitioned into software development in her 40s, with no tech background. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communications and has over 20 years of experience. As a str... Show more

Je suis tombée dans l'agilité il y a déjà pas mal d'années, sans en connaître le nom. Ce mindset, ainsi que ses valeurs et principes, sont pour moi cruciaux pour toute organisation, toute démarche, tout projet. Non pas que les méthodes liées à l'agilité soient toujours les + adaptées, mais ce mindset fondé sur l'humain, l'écoute, la co-construction, l'adaptation et la création de valeur est transposable à toutes les échelles. Je suis aujourd'hui coach pour les équipes agiles, et j'accompagne aussi l'individu et les organisations à se transformer.

Je suis tombée dans l'agilité il y a déjà pas mal d'années, sans en connaître le nom. Ce mindset, ainsi que ses valeurs et principes, sont pour moi cruciaux pour toute organisation, toute démarche, tout projet. Non pas que les méthodes liées à l'agil... Show more

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

Meet Adi! Adi is a multi-disciplinary master: She manages the App & AI and cloud services across Southeast Europe, holds a degree in software engineering, launched startups, managing startups competitions, won global competitions and is a passionate innovator. This diversity gives her the unique ability to communicate complex technologies in a compelling way to tech and non-tech audiences alike and makes her a sought-after public speaker.

Adi is also a global speaker on AI technologies, developers productivity and entrepreneurship. She empowers companies and startups to innovate with generative AI for building cutting-edge applications at scale.

Adi has a wealth of experience in the tech industry, from corporate to startups, having held various roles in product management, software engineer, CEO, innovation, entrepreneurship, and AI domain. She previously worked as an innovation manager at Microsoft R&D CTO office, where she led market research and developed business models for new tech ventures. She also worked at Over.ai, which was acquired by Vonage, and as a product manager for AI products.

Adi is startups founder. Growing two ventures in the brain computer interface for gaming and wellness domain, ignited her mission to encourage more women to start their own ventures. Adi launched and managed Ben-Gurion University innovation hub for entrepreneurs, and in the last 7 years, she manages Merage alumni network (an Israeli network of 1000 startup CEOs selected to the prestigious Merage program) and the Merage startup competition (Granting $100K to entrepreneurs above the age 45 or women at any age), and volunteer in various women empowerment initiatives.

Adi is a dynamic and engaging speaker who is always willing to share her experiences and insights with others.

Meet Adi! Adi is a multi-disciplinary master: She manages the App & AI and cloud services across Southeast Europe, holds a degree in software engineering, launched startups, managing startups competitions, won global competitions and is a passionate ... Show more

Guido X Jansen is a Community Strategist who builds technical ecosystems that drive business growth. He has built community functions from zero multiple times: Dutchento/Meet Magento (600+ annual attendees), CRO.CAFE (200+ podcast episodes), and Spryker's enterprise community (130+ clients).

His cognitive psychology background helps him understand why technical users behave the way they do, designing communities that create real business value rather than just activity metrics. He has spoken at 200+ conferences across 26 countries.

Guido advocates for open source, privacy-first technology, and building resilient systems. Based in the Netherlands, working remotely.

Guido X Jansen is a Community Strategist who builds technical ecosystems that drive business growth. He has built community functions from zero multiple times: Dutchento/Meet Magento (600+ annual attendees), CRO.CAFE (200+ podcast episodes), and Spry... Show more

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, 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

Méthodique, rigoureux et empathique, passionné par la dynamique de groupe et par la complexité, deux aspects majeurs de la vie des équipes IT actuelles, j'interviens pour trouver un équilibre entre les besoins des équipes et ceux de l'entreprise. Mon approche vise à faire cohabiter management et autonomie, en mettant l'accent sur l'amélioration continue, les objectifs et la manière de les atteindre.
Avec toujours cette phrase de François Dupuy en tête : "Le changement se produit quand il est possible et non quand il est nécessaire".

Méthodique, rigoureux et empathique, passionné par la dynamique de groupe et par la complexité, deux aspects majeurs de la vie des équipes IT actuelles, j'interviens pour trouver un équilibre entre les besoins des équipes et ceux de l'entreprise. Mon... Show more

Agiliste convaincue, motivée par les petites victoires quotidiennes, émerveillée par la vie, et habitée par les valeurs du manifeste agile centrées sur l'humain, le respect, la bienveillance et l'amélioration continue. Je mets mes compétences et mon expérience au service de ceux qui partagent mon quotidien, mais j'essaye avant tout de leur faire révéler leur propre potentiel, parfois des pépites qu'ils ignorent d'eux-mêmes...

Maman de 3 enfants, neuroatypique, féministe et fresqueuse du climat.

Agiliste convaincue, motivée par les petites victoires quotidiennes, émerveillée par la vie, et habitée par les valeurs du manifeste agile centrées sur l'humain, le respect, la bienveillance et l'amélioration continue. Je mets mes compétences et mon ... Show more

Riz Vazir wants you to never lose focus, time, or health to doomscrolling and digital distractions. With over 20 years in organizational change and transformation including leadership roles at Microsoft and Aon he founded Scroll By Choice to address the health and productivity crisis created by attention-hijacking technologies. A Prosci-certified Change Management Practitioner and MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, Riz helps organizations and families build digital wellness that strengthens focus, performance, and connection in an AI-driven world. He lives in the Seattle area with his wife and son, who inspires his work.

Riz Vazir wants you to never lose focus, time, or health to doomscrolling and digital distractions. With over 20 years in organizational change and transformation including leadership roles at Microsoft and Aon he founded Scroll By Choice to address ... Show more

Parul is a highly experienced keynote speaker with a flair for making DEI talks exciting again. She delivers informative and engaging talks on neurodiversity, sometimes with a bit of a twist; by using concepts from nostalgic video games!

Parul has delivered keynote talks at LeadDev London, Leeds Digital Festival, Manchester Tech Festival and RecFest.

Parul is a highly experienced keynote speaker with a flair for making DEI talks exciting again. She delivers informative and engaging talks on neurodiversity, sometimes with a bit of a twist; by using concepts from nostalgic video games! Parul ha... Show more

Adina Cristocea, M.A., Trainer for Diversity and Inclusion and Participation Peer Counselor at EUTB® (Complementary independent participation counselling), combines her background in psychology of excellence, coaching and instructional design to discuss strategies for building inclusive digital products. Her personal and professional experience in participation policies and programs informs her approach to creating accessible and engaging digital experiences for neurodiverse users.

Adina Cristocea, M.A., Trainer for Diversity and Inclusion and Participation Peer Counselor at EUTB® (Complementary independent participation counselling), combines her background in psychology of excellence, coaching and instructional design to disc... Show more