Manuela Raidl is a Change and Communication Manager who helps organizations navigate complexity and transformation with clarity, empathy, and purpose.

Her journey into change work began through agile. What started with becoming a Scrum Master evolved into a broader focus on how teams and organizations adapt, learn, and grow. Today, Manuela sees agility not just as a framework, but as a mindset that underpins successful change.

Over the past year, she has spoken at several conferences across Europe, sharing practical insights on topics such as cultural challenges and team development. Whether working with engineers or executives, Manuela builds bridges between strategy and people – turning change initiatives into real, lived progress.

Manuela Raidl is a Change and Communication Manager who helps organizations navigate complexity and transformation with clarity, empathy, and purpose. Her journey into change work began through agile. What started with becoming a Scrum Master evol... Show more

• Founder of Have a Plan - growth consulting for tech companies
• 13 years in tech - frontend developer & Chief Operating Officer • Strong development background, business analytics expertise, and an AI-driven approach
• Open Source advocate & Public speaker

• Founder of Have a Plan - growth consulting for tech companies • 13 years in tech - frontend developer & Chief Operating Officer • Strong development background, business analytics expertise, and an AI-driven approach • Open Source advocate & Publ... Show more

Raji Navis is a practitioner of SMGI® (Somatic Mindful Guided Imagery®), an integrative methodology that connects body, mind, and subconscious to complete the work that insight alone cannot reach.

With a background in engineering and a Master's degree in Climate Change Policy, Raji brings systems-thinking precision to the most complex system that exists: the human nervous system and subconscious. She serves clients globally through Bodywise Mind, helping high-functioning professionals, therapy-educated clients, and people experiencing persistent physical symptoms move from the Somatic Ceiling, where understanding hasn't yet reached embodiment, into lasting, effortless change.

Raji's approach is rooted in Eastern philosophical wisdom and Western neuroscience. She has trained extensively across 8+ modalities including strategic psychotherapy, clinical hypnosis, Brainspotting, Ayurveda, yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness practices. She trained under Gina Vance, the creator of SMGI®, and is currently engaged in a research partnership with the Health University of Applied Sciences Tyrol, Austria studying emotional regulation and attention in adults using SMGI®.

Raji Navis is a practitioner of SMGI® (Somatic Mindful Guided Imagery®), an integrative methodology that connects body, mind, and subconscious to complete the work that insight alone cannot reach. With a background in engineering and a Master's de... Show more

Nick Triggs is the Founder and Managing Director of Elara, a Microsoft-focused consulting firm built around delivering measurable business outcomes with Power BI, data infrastructure, and AI. He began his career as a Dynamics Business Central and Finance and Operations consultant and later worked on large-scale projects across Canada, the United States, Europe, and Japan, giving him broad experience in how Microsoft business applications are implemented in different industries and environments. That experience shaped his outcome-focused approach to consulting, centered on helping clients turn technology investments into clearer insight, stronger decision-making, and visible business value. Today, his work is focused on building high-quality BI and data foundations for Dynamics 365 and Business Central customers so leadership teams can better understand the impact of their systems, and he has supported organizations ranging from multinational companies to growing mid-market businesses across retail, manufacturing, financial services, and aviation

Nick Triggs is the Founder and Managing Director of Elara, a Microsoft-focused consulting firm built around delivering measurable business outcomes with Power BI, data infrastructure, and AI. He began his career as a Dynamics Business Central and Fin... Show more

Dr. Jatin Patel is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. He is the founder of Arthritis & Rheumatology Center, P.C., in Georgia. He has provided care to patients in Canton, Cumming, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, Roswell/Alpharetta, Suwanee/Johns Creek, and Woodstock for 13 years. He serves patients at the Roswell/Alpharetta and Cumming offices, focusing on the comprehensive management of rheumatic diseases.

Dr. Patel specializes in Osteoarthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Scleroderma, Vasculitis, Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, and Platelet-Rich Plasma therapies. His commitment has helped establish a wide range of advanced rheumatology services available for those who need specialized care.

He works to deliver high-quality healthcare for complex conditions while always paying attention to each individual’s needs. He stays informed about the latest advances in medicine and uses this knowledge to provide effective, evidence-based treatment for his patients.

Patel values early diagnosis and timely intervention as key parts of his approach. He strives to minimize discomfort and maintain function for those he serves, and his dedication guides the care provided throughout the practice.

He has developed expertise in healthcare delivery, patient management, and rheumatology. His experience contributes to the mission of providing thorough and dependable care for everyone at the center.

Jatin Patel, MD, and his team diagnose and treat a wide variety of rheumatic diseases. The center addresses conditions including Ankylosing Spondylitis, Bursitis, Tendonitis, Gout, Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis, Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, Myositis, Metabolic Myopathy, Osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma, Sjogren’s Disease, Soft Tissue Disorders, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Vasculitis.

He has led the center’s development into a comprehensive outpatient facility. The practice offers infusion therapy, a CLIA-certified laboratory, X-rays, MRI, clinical trials, and an in-house dispensary. This approach allows patients to access a full range of rheumatology services in one place.

Patel has received recognition, including Alpharetta’s Best Doctor in Rheumatology 2017 and Castle Connolly Best Doctor 2023. He won the grand prize in the American College of Rheumatology Image Competition in 2012, an honor for significant clinical images that contribute to the ACR Image Library.

Dr. Jatin Patel has published research in national and international journals and has presented at American College of Physicians national meetings and American College of Rheumatology workshops.

Patel is a member of the American College of Rheumatology, the American College of Physicians, the National Arthritis Foundation, the International Society for Clinical Densitometry, and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Dr. Patel graduated from C.U. Shah Medical College in western India and completed his internal medicine residency at Jersey Shore University Hospital in New Jersey. He then completed his Rheumatology fellowship at Drexel University/Hahnemann Hospital, where he gained experience in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound and achieved Certification in Registered Musculoskeletal Sonography.

He has supported research and patient advocacy by donating $150,000 to Boston Children’s Hospital for clinical research in 2015 and 2016 and $5,000 to the National Psoriasis Foundation in 2025.

His parents, both physicians, inspired him to pursue medicine. Early experiences accompanying his father on patient visits helped shape his approach to compassionate care.

Jatin Patel, MD, enjoys spending time with his family, who moved with him to Georgia and became part of the community. He likes running, traveling, watching soccer, and trying new foods.

Dr. Jatin Patel is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. He is the founder of Arthritis & Rheumatology Center, P.C., in Georgia. He has provided care to patients in Canton, Cumming, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, Roswell/Alpharetta, Suwane... Show more

Ankita is a Senior Engineering Technical Leader with 10+ years of Tech industry experience. She is currently an Educator and creates digital products such as her [E-book](http://bit.ly/3grSPSI) on taking control of your first 90 days, best suited for newer leaders or her [course](http://bit.ly/3tUPRcr) on Next.js.

She is passionate about growing developers and leaders. She worked for several companies such as WealthSimple, IBM, Loblaw Digital - ShoppersDrugMart, Rangle.io and more. As a senior leader, she has grown a lot of folks in her career, and her mission is to help mentor folks in all stages of their career. She has architected and scaled many web and mobile apps for clients using React, GraphQL, React Native and Next.js. You may know some of them: Tim Hortons, Borrowell, WealthSimple, Moleskine and more. In addition, she enjoys teaching, public speaking and being outdoors.

Ankita is a Senior Engineering Technical Leader with 10+ years of Tech industry experience. She is currently an Educator and creates digital products such as her [E-book](http://bit.ly/3grSPSI) on taking control of your first 90 days, best suited for... Show more

Emily Hemingway is the Founding Executive Director of TechSTL and the Wedge Innovation Center. A 20-year veteran in building innovation ecosystems around the country, Emily is driving economic growth across the St. Louis metro by catalyzing tech jobs, tech startups, and tech innovation. She is the lead organizer for STL TechWeek.

Emily Hemingway is the Founding Executive Director of TechSTL and the Wedge Innovation Center. A 20-year veteran in building innovation ecosystems around the country, Emily is driving economic growth across the St. Louis metro by catalyzing tech jobs... Show more

Ulrike Baumgärtner is a senior consultant for quality strategy and founder of Passion4Quality, with over 25 years of leadership experience in the pharmaceutical industry. As a licensed pharmacist, she specializes in quality assurance, cleaning validation and the development of sustainable quality cultures.

During her time at Boehringer Ingelheim, she led the global Competence Center for Cleaning Validation, shaped corporate procedures, and presented cleaning validation concepts in numerous regulatory, FDA and customer inspections worldwide. Her work spanned the full lifecycle of cleaning validation – from risk assessment, sampling strategy and analytical method validation to protocol design, execution and hands-on swabbing and rinsing.

As a consultant, she has supported multiple clients in establishing robust cleaning validation concepts, including new API manufacturing facilities, solid dosage production sites and technology start-ups. She is known for bringing clarity to complex GMP environments and for bridging the gap between design assumptions and operational reality.

Ulrike Baumgärtner is a senior consultant for quality strategy and founder of Passion4Quality, with over 25 years of leadership experience in the pharmaceutical industry. As a licensed pharmacist, she specializes in quality assurance, cleaning valida... Show more

I am a Senior Applied AI scientist and a Distinguished Engineer at Dell and holds a B.Sc. in Mathematics and an MBA.
At dell I am leading the agentic search application for dell employees and ialso have vast experience with with time series data like sensors coming from smartwatches and smart-phones to provide continuous health monitoring for the sick and elderly. At Dell I am working on different projects including predicting anomalies on servers, optimizing user behaviors on Dell’s website and work with hospitals (mainly radiologists) on xray anomalies classification.
My main hobbies are coffee, sport and traveling around the world!

I am a Senior Applied AI scientist and a Distinguished Engineer at Dell and holds a B.Sc. in Mathematics and an MBA. At dell I am leading the agentic search application for dell employees and ialso have vast experience with with time series data... Show more

Albert Dorador is an Adjunct Professor of Statistics (BarcelonaTech) and Mathematics (Pompeu Fabra). He holds a PhD in Statistics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and previously served at the European Central Bank, specializing in financial risk management and machine learning applications. Albert is the creator of the TRUST and Renet algorithms among others, focusing on the intersection of high-performance optimization and auditable, "human-scale" machine learning. His work centers on solving the "Interpretability Gap" in high-stakes regulatory environments, moving the industry toward deterministic and forensic-grade AI transparency.

Albert Dorador is an Adjunct Professor of Statistics (BarcelonaTech) and Mathematics (Pompeu Fabra). He holds a PhD in Statistics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and previously served at the European Central Bank, specializing in financial r... Show more

A Docker Captain and Microsoft MVP, is a Cloud and DevOps engineer, consultant, and instructor with expertise in Microsoft Azure and DevOps practices. Passionate about teaching, she delivers both practical and theoretical courses on Azure, and DevOps. Cigdem helps organizations implement DevOps transformations across cloud and on-premises environments while contributing to the community through insightful technical articles and videos on cloud adoption and DevOps best practices.

A Docker Captain and Microsoft MVP, is a Cloud and DevOps engineer, consultant, and instructor with expertise in Microsoft Azure and DevOps practices. Passionate about teaching, she delivers both practical and theoretical courses on Azure, and DevOps... Show more

Christopher Danz is AI & Data Manager at DRK Kliniken Berlin, where he builds the hospital group's AI and ML ecosystem from the ground up. With a background in ML engineering and a focus on Responsible AI, he bridges the gap between technical innovation and real-world healthcare impact. Through Danz Data Lab, he helps organizations cut through the hype and build AI that actually works.

Christopher Danz is AI & Data Manager at DRK Kliniken Berlin, where he builds the hospital group's AI and ML ecosystem from the ground up. With a background in ML engineering and a focus on Responsible AI, he bridges the gap between technical innovat... Show more

Blythe is a product marketing executive, focused on SQL Server and database product development. She has more than two decades of success delivering multi million-dollar revenue growth through innovative marketing, product positioning, messaging, and competitive differentiation. She spends her days developing products that Data Pros use every day. She has a background in Microsoft SQL Server, PowerBI and Data Warehousing. She speaks at many conferences and events around the world, helping improve the work lives of DBAs everywhere.

Blythe is a product marketing executive, focused on SQL Server and database product development. She has more than two decades of success delivering multi million-dollar revenue growth through innovative marketing, product positioning, messaging, and... Show more

Chris Leonard is a speaker and business coach who builds high-performing teams around complex problems and helps leaders do the same.
Drawing from Agile, LeanStartup, EOS, and more, Chris gives his clients the right skills to meet their goals. He founded No Impediments in 2023 where he serves clients in higher ed, retail, life sciences, and more.
Chris came to coaching as a second career after 10years on the road in the music industry. He lives in Nashville, Tennessee with his wife, two kids, a dog and a cat.

Chris Leonard is a speaker and business coach who builds high-performing teams around complex problems and helps leaders do the same. Drawing from Agile, LeanStartup, EOS, and more, Chris gives his clients the right skills to meet their goals. He fo... Show more

Joel Benge is a recovering cybersecurity analyst, speaker, author, and messaging consultant who helps highly technical people communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. He works with cybersecurity startups, engineers, and technical founders who are tired of being misunderstood, ignored, or oversimplified.

Joel is the author of Be a Nerd That Talks Good and the host of the “Nerds That Talk Good” podcast, where he interviews hackers, technologists, and builders about turning expertise into messages that actually land. His work focuses on practical frameworks—diagnostics, narrative structures, and game-based tools—that help smart people stay smart while becoming more effective communicators.

He has spoken at cybersecurity and tech events including DEF CON and CyberMarketingCon, and regularly runs hands-on workshops for technical teams who want to sharpen how they explain risk, systems, and ideas—without resorting to buzzwords or hype.

Joel Benge is a recovering cybersecurity analyst, speaker, author, and messaging consultant who helps highly technical people communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. He works with cybersecurity startups, engineers, and technical founders wh... Show more

Erica Foley is a Portfolio Director with a passion for transforming project and program management through data and emerging technologies. With a strong background in professional services and software implementation, she leads strategic initiatives that blend AI, automation, and executive-level insights. Erica specializes in creating scorecards and dashboards that drive decision-making across complex portfolios, most recently applying AI capabilities within Business Central, F&O and Dynamics 365 CE. Her work bridges the gap between delivery teams and executive stakeholders, helping organizations unlock the full potential of AI-powered project management.

Erica Foley is a Portfolio Director with a passion for transforming project and program management through data and emerging technologies. With a strong background in professional services and software implementation, she leads strategic initiatives ... Show more

What sets Dr. Freeman apart is not advice or frameworks, but the space he creates. His work is intentionally calm, confidential, and unhurried—a place where leaders can talk openly, explore ideas, and sort through complexity without performance or politics getting in the way. Conversations are relaxed, human, and grounded, even when the issues are serious. Clients often say they don’t feel “coached” or “consulted,” but genuinely heard. The result is clarity that feels earned, not imposed—and decisions that feel steadier because they were thought through in a space that was both rigorous and welcoming.

Dr. Daniel Freeman brings together an uncommon mix of training and lived experience. With a background in sociology and a doctorate in global leadership, a decade of nonprofit leadership experience, combined with years as a former professional athlete, nationally recognized track and field coach, consultant, and adjunct instructor, his work is shaped by both academic rigor and real-world pressure. Over the past decade, he has held thousands of one-on-one conversations with nonprofit executives, Fortune 500 CEOs, founders, athletes, and coaches. That experience has given him a deep understanding of how leaders actually think, decide, and carry responsibility.

What sets Dr. Freeman apart is not advice or frameworks, but the space he creates. His work is intentionally calm, confidential, and unhurried—a place where leaders can talk openly, explore ideas, and sort through complexity without performance or po... Show more

Liene Freija Lund is a leadership and communication consultant with over 15 years of experience in international organisations, including senior roles within the United Nations system.

She works with leaders and teams to improve how they think, communicate and make decisions in complex and high-pressure environments. Her work focuses on attentive communication, emotional intelligence and decision-making as practical leadership tools — not abstract concepts.

Liene is the co-founder of Pathfinder Duo, SIA, a consultancy combining leadership development with cybersecurity and organisational resilience. She designs and delivers executive trainings, workshops and coaching programmes for organisations across Europe.

Alongside her professional work, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Communication, Behaviour and Credibility Analysis, where her research explores how emotional intelligence and communication directly impact team performance.

Her speaking style combines clarity, depth and real-world experience, offering audiences practical insights they can apply immediately in their leadership and professional roles.

Liene Freija Lund is a leadership and communication consultant with over 15 years of experience in international organisations, including senior roles within the United Nations system. She works with leaders and teams to improve how they think, co... Show more

I am an Associate at McKinsey, focusing on digital and technology. Prior to this, I worked as a Software Engineer in the Microsoft Cloud for ISVs team at Microsoft. Before that, I was a Technology, Data & Analytics Consultant at PwC, specialising in Project & Programme Management and Data Analytics. My academic background includes a BSc in Psychology from the University of Birmingham.

I am an Associate at McKinsey, focusing on digital and technology. Prior to this, I worked as a Software Engineer in the Microsoft Cloud for ISVs team at Microsoft. Before that, I was a Technology, Data & Analytics Consultant at PwC, specialising in ... Show more

Jan Klein, Researcher | Architect of Understandable Ai | UAI | Quantum Physics | Computer science | Artifical intelligence | Software, Web & App Development | On the Energy of Moving Bodies in the Presence of Fields - Unified Synthesis of Mass, Motion and Field Energy | CEO at devucoz.org, bix.pages.dev & WAI

Jan Klein, Researcher | Architect of Understandable Ai | UAI | Quantum Physics | Computer science | Artifical intelligence | Software, Web & App Development | On the Energy of Moving Bodies in the Presence of Fields - Unified Synthesis of Mass, Motio... Show more

Software engineer currently diving into the simulations topic.

Software engineer currently diving into the simulations topic. Show more

Serban Mare immigrated to the U.S. from Romania with $200 and a
relentless ambition. Over 20 years in the technology industry, he rose from technician to
Engineering Program Manager, leading high-stakes programs under constant pressure. He
achieved the American Dream on paper while quietly burning out behind it. That experience
taught him what most high performers learn too late: success and depletion don't have to be a
package deal. Today, Serban continues to lead complex engineering initiatives while speaking
to corporations and teams facing the same pattern. He delivers keynotes and workshops that
help organizations prevent burnout, retain top talent, and sustain performance without
sacrificing their people. His approach uses science-backed tools he applies in his own career,
presented with the clarity of an engineer and the honesty of someone who's lived it. His
sessions don't offer textbook theory or another generic wellness talk. They provide tactical
strategies that work in real organizational constraints, helping high performers stop choosing
between excellence and well-being.

Serban Mare immigrated to the U.S. from Romania with $200 and a relentless ambition. Over 20 years in the technology industry, he rose from technician to Engineering Program Manager, leading high-stakes programs under constant pressure. He achieve... Show more

Melanie Suzanne Wilson is now available as a keynote speaker, emcee, or facilitator.

Melanie shares insights about personal branding, sustainable lifestyle, networking, diversity, inclusion, and confident public speaking.

Melanie Suzanne Wilson founded The Motivate Collective, a wellness discussion provider. Melanie hosted podcast recordings with acclaimed experts, storytellers, and advocates.

Melanie has been a speaker for more than a decade and a half. Melanie learned presentation techniques from her grandparents, Gary Wilson OAM and the late Elizabeth Wilson OAM.

She is available now in Sydney, regional NSW, further locations in Australia, and internationally.

Melanie Suzanne Wilson is now available as a keynote speaker, emcee, or facilitator. Melanie shares insights about personal branding, sustainable lifestyle, networking, diversity, inclusion, and confident public speaking. Melanie Suzanne Wilson... Show more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kunal is a Ph.D. student at IIT Delhi, where he is developing and improving foundation models for robotics applications. His research focuses on physically grounded reasoning, causal world modeling, and combining multimodal foundation models with deep reinforcement learning to build safe, general-purpose robotic agents that truly understand the real world.

With hands-on experience in embodied AI, LLM-guided RL, and edge-optimized multimodal robotics, Kunal works at the intersection of large-scale AI and physical intelligence. A former research intern at IISc Bangalore and IIT Gandhinagar and recipient of multiple government grants, he is dedicated to turning today’s powerful foundation models into tomorrow’s intelligent machines.

Kunal is a Ph.D. student at IIT Delhi, where he is developing and improving foundation models for robotics applications. His research focuses on physically grounded reasoning, causal world modeling, and combining multimodal foundation models with dee... Show more

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

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

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

Bishop Elias Lorenzo was born in Brooklyn in October 1960 and raised in Sunset Park, where he attended a parish elementary school that helped shape his early understanding of faith, learning, and community life. Growing up in this environment taught him the value of steady routines, careful study, and a sense of responsibility toward others. These early influences encouraged him to develop habits that supported personal growth and service. Over time, the lessons he gained in childhood guided him toward a vocation centered on humility, dedication, and a willingness to learn at every stage.

Bishop Elias continued his education at a Catholic college, where he completed a degree in philosophy before entering a Benedictine monastery to begin religious life. When he professed vows in the mid-1980s, he embraced the rhythm of prayer, work, and community that shapes monastic living. He was later ordained a priest, taking on responsibilities that required thoughtful attention to both spiritual and practical needs. Through these early years, he grew in his understanding of how patient listening and steady guidance foster trust and support within a faith community.

Lorenzo began his ministry as a teacher at a secondary school connected to his monastery. He taught religion, helped organize retreats, and supported students through service programs that encouraged them to grow academically, socially, and spiritually. His work placed him in direct contact with young people, helping him understand their hopes and challenges. As his responsibilities expanded, he also collaborated with administrators and the school’s board. Despite these added tasks, he continued teaching because he believed meaningful leadership begins with personal engagement.

Bishop Elias Lorenzo deepened his ministry through advanced academic studies. He completed graduate work in liturgical theology, gaining insight into how worship nurtures community life and shapes shared experiences of faith. He later pursued studies in counseling, learning practical ways to support individuals facing emotional and personal difficulties. He then completed formal studies in canon law, preparing him to help religious communities navigate governance and pastoral care matters. These combined disciplines strengthened his ability to serve consistently, clearly, and with understanding.

Bishop Elias accepted leadership roles within monastic communities in the United States and abroad. He first served as prior at his home abbey before assuming the same position at an international Benedictine community in Rome. There, he worked with members from many nations, gaining experience in cross-cultural cooperation across diverse environments. He later represented monastic communities in matters requiring communication with the Vatican. These responsibilities broadened his awareness of global religious life and strengthened his appreciation for the varied needs of communities worldwide.

Lorenzo contributed to international Benedictine education by supporting programs that enhanced academic formation and spiritual development in schools across several continents. His background as a teacher helped him connect easily with educators, students, and administrators. In addition to his educational involvement, he participated in humanitarian medical missions in several countries, supporting teams and providing assistance as needed. These experiences reinforced his belief that service thrives when approached with openness, humility, and respect for different cultures.

Bishop Elias R Lorenzo remained committed to promoting safe environments and responsible structures within religious and educational settings. He worked with organizations focused on protecting vulnerable individuals and establishing procedures that encourage transparency and accountability. He also served in diocesan roles requiring thoughtful communication with clergy, religious communities, and laypeople. Through this work, he became known for his steady approach to addressing concerns and his dedication to building trust within institutions.

Bishop Lorenzo was appointed an auxiliary bishop in 2020 and later received episcopal consecration in the cathedral of his archdiocese. In this role, he serves a large county, supporting parishes, pastoral programs, administrative needs, and canonical matters. His daily responsibilities require careful judgment, clear communication, and a willingness to understand the situations of diverse communities. He continues to approach these duties with humility, seeking to guide and support others through steady and thoughtful service.

Bishop Elias Lorenzo offers an example of leadership formed through gradual growth, quiet dedication, and consistent commitment. His life reflects how meaningful influence develops not through sudden recognition but through the accumulation of small, faithful actions. Those who know his journey often observe his attentive manner and his readiness to serve wherever needed. His path encourages others to see that lasting contributions arise from patience, integrity, and a sincere desire to support others' well-being.

Bishop Elias Lorenzo was born in Brooklyn in October 1960 and raised in Sunset Park, where he attended a parish elementary school that helped shape his early understanding of faith, learning, and community life. Growing up in this environment taught ... Show more

Matthew started working on the Web in '95 at an experimental dance company in Ottawa Canada. This became an obsession with bleeding edge technologies. His decades of experience in the technology sphere as a project manager and Web application architect segued into joining the Drupal community in 2007. He has spoken at numerous tech conferences. Saunders was on the Drupalcon Denver organizing committee, is Director of Drupalcamp Colorado, and helped found the Drupal Event Organizing Working Group. Matthew recently left Pfizer as Delivery Lead for the Health Care Provider Portal and is looking for his next challenge. He runs a consultancy at https://www.jamesmatthewsaunders.ai. He is an activist in neurodiversity. Matthew recently joined amazee.io as their AI Ambassador.

Matthew started working on the Web in '95 at an experimental dance company in Ottawa Canada. This became an obsession with bleeding edge technologies. His decades of experience in the technology sphere as a project manager and Web application archite... Show more

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

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

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

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