55^th Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy is described as a man exuding “true American grit.” Prior to his election to Congress, McCarthy served as the fastest rising Minority Leader in the California State Legislature. In Congress, he held nearly every elected leadership position in the House Republican conference and served under four Presidents, during two economic crises, and through consistent political upheaval while always maintaining his approach to governing as a Happy Warrior. After his election to Speaker, McCarthy went on to secure $2T in deficit reduction. McCarthy’s decade and a half at the pinnacle of U.S. government has imbued him with powerful insights into politics, leadership, and values.

Throughout his career, McCarthy fought for a more effective, efficient, and accountable federal government. McCarthy’s invaluable perspective as a Washington insider, as well as his sharp insights and analysis, make him the ideal voice on the future of the U.S.

General (Ret.) Mark A. Milley served as the 20^th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the nation's highest-ranking military officer, and the principal military advisor to the President, Secretary of Defense, and National Security Council. He retired Sept. 29^th, 2023. Prior to becoming Chairman on October 1^st, 2019, General Milley served as the 39^th Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army. General Milley is currently a distinguished fellow in residence with the Security Studies Program in the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University and a Charles and Marie Robertson visiting professor and visiting lecturer at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA). 

In addition to his degree in Political Science from Princeton University, General Milley has multiple master’s degrees – in International Relations from Columbia University and in National Security & Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He is also a graduate of the MIT Seminar XXI National Security Studies Program. In the past more than four decades, General Milley has had multiple command and staff positions in six divisions as well as Special Forces. General Milley’s substantive experience in leadership provides impressive and enlightening insight for every audience who engages with him.

General Milley’s depth of knowledge and discernment of today’s geopolitical issues gives shape and meaning to the shifting power centers in the global operational environment. His perspective is invaluable for audiences looking to understand the impact of current conflicts and managing risks on boards of directors and leadership teams who are responsible for making strategic decisions and identifying vulnerabilities. More than a lesson in history or current events, General Milley helps audiences understand the significance of this moment in time as a potential turning point in history.

Former U.S. Senator and U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Ambassador Jeff Flake’s experience representing America overseas, combined with nearly two decades of knowledge and experience on Capitol Hill, make him a truly unique asset to companies and organizations trying to navigate through complex global developments, topics, and trends. Known for his genial nature while in Congress, Senator Flake was confirmed unanimously by his former colleagues for his current ambassadorial post. Before his Ambassadorial appointment, Ambassador Flake served on the Advisory Board of the Institute of Politics at Harvard University, as a Distinguished Fellow at Arizona State University, and at the Sorensen Center for Moral and Ethical Leadership at Brigham Young University. He also served on the board of Directors of Taylor Morrison, the nation’s fifth-largest homebuilder. Ambassador Flake is the author of the New York Times best-seller Conscience of a Conservative: A Rejection of Destructive Politics and a Return to Principle. He is also the recipient of the Gold Medal of Honorary Patronage from the University Philosophical Society at Trinity College, Dublin. He offers a timely and unique perspective on U.S. foreign policy and the geopolitics of Europe and the Middle East. Senator Flake engages with audiences without partisan rancor or vitriol, making him capable and competent without being controversial.

A sought-after speaker, Senator Flake delivered a commencement address at Harvard Law School. He has been a frequent guest on NBC’s Meet the Press, ABC’s This Week, CBS’s Face the Nation, FOX News’ Sunday, and CNN’s State of the Union. He has guest lectured at Stanford, Princeton, and Yale, was a Resident Fellow at Harvard’s Institute of Politics, and is the board chair for World Trade Center Utah.

CNN Senior Political Correspondent Abby Phillip anchors CNN’s NewsNight with Abby Phillip and Inside Politics Sunday. She joined the network in to cover the Trump Administration and served as White House Correspondent before transitioning to the campaign trail. In January 2020, she moderated CNN's Democratic Presidential Debate in Iowa. She also anchored special coverage of Election Night in America surrounding the 2020 election and hosted the CNN Special Report: Kamala Harris: Making History about the Vice President's barrier-breaking career. Prior to CNN, Phillip worked at The Washington Post as a national political reporter and ABC News as a digital reporter for politics. She also covered the Obama White House for POLITICO as well as campaign finance and lobbying. With her engaging presence and incisive commentary, Phillip illuminates key issues and sparks meaningful dialogue on the forces shaping our democracy.

Phillip has been honored with the National Urban League’s Women of Power Award and named to the TIME “100 Next” list. She serves on the board of the News Literary Project and is committed to advancing democracy at every opportunity. Phillip has spoken to Kean University, the National Press Foundation, the University of Rhode Island, and many more.

Dambisa Moyo is a member of the United Kingdom’s House of Lords sitting as Baroness Moyo of Knightsbridge . She is a principal of Versaca Investments - a family office focused on growth investing globally. She serves on a number of global corporate boards including Chevron, and the Oxford University Endowment Investment Committee. She is a member of The American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Moyo is respected for her unique perspectives, her balance of contrarian thinking with measured judgment, and her ability to turn economic insight into investible ideas. 

Dr. Moyo is the author of five bestselling books on the global macroeconomy and geopolitics. She holds a PhD in economics from Oxford University and a Masters degree from Harvard University. Dr. Moyo was named to the list of TIME’s "100 Most Influential People" in the world; writes for the Financial Times, WSJ, Barron's, and Harvard Business Review. Dr. Moyo is a pre-eminent thinker whose insights empower key decision-makers in strategic investment and public policy.

Columbia Business School professor Dr. Sheena Iyengar is a world expert on choice and decision-making. Her book The Art of Choosing received the Financial Times and Goldman Sachs Business Book of the Year and inspired an eponymous TED Talk.  Her subsequent book, Think Bigger, was a Gold Medal Winner of the 2024 Axiom Business Book Award. Her research is regularly cited in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and The Economist as well as in popular books, such as Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink and Aziz Ansari’s Modern Romance. Dr. Iyengar has also appeared on television, including The Today Show, The Daily Show, and Fareed Zakaria’s GPS on CNN. Her TED Talks have collectively received 7M views and her research continues to inform markets, businesses, and individuals around the world.

Dr. Iyengar has been named a member of Thinkers50, a global ranking of the top 50 management thinkers. She won the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Core Teaching from Columbia Business School in 2012 and was named one of the World’s Best B-School Professors by Poets and Quants. She has also given keynotes and consulted for companies as wide-ranging as Deloitte, Google, Bloomberg, Blizzard Entertainment, J.P. Morgan & Chase, and The North Face.

Harvard University professor of philosophy Michael Sandel has been described as a “philosopher with the global profile of a rock star,” known across the globe for his lively Socratic debates that aim to restore the lost art of respectful discussion. Sandel is the bestselling author of books on justice, ethics, democracy, and markets that have been translated into over 30 languages. Sandel has been a visiting professor at the Sorbonne, delivered the Tanner Lectures on Human Values at Oxford, served on the U.S. President’s Council on Bioethics, and is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. A graduate of Brandeis University, he received his doctorate from Oxford University, where he was a Rhodes Scholar.

Sandel’s books—on justice, democracy, ethics, technology, and markets—have been translated into more than 30 languages. They include Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?; What Money Can’t Buy, and The Tyranny of Merit: Can We Find the Common Good?, which seeks a way beyond our polarized politics. A new edition of his classic book Democracy’s Discontent has been described as “essential--and ultimately hopeful--reading for all those who wonder if our democratic experiment will survive in the twenty-first century.”

Sandel’s legendary course “Justice,” one of the most popular in Harvard’s history, is freely available online and has been viewed by tens of millions. His BBC series The Global Philosopher engages participants from around the world in discussing the ethical issues lying behind the headlines. In this and other television, radio, and online programs, Sandel explores tech ethics, robots and AI, markets and morals, climate change, free speech, and other topical issues.

Sandel’s renowned interactive public lectures on the big civic questions of the day show how reasoned debate, leavened with humor and mutual respect, can produce dialogue across our differences.

A “master of life’s big questions” (Guardian), Sandel’s live events have packed St. Paul’s Cathedral (London), the Sydney Opera House (Australia), the Delacorte Theater in New York’s Central Park, and an outdoor stadium in Seoul (S. Korea), where 14,000 came to hear him speak. 

Dan Harris is a fidgety, skeptical journalist who had a panic attack on live national television, which led him towards an investigative interest in mindful ambition and wellness. He went on to write the #1 New York Times bestseller, 10% Happier, followed by a chart-topping podcast, Ten Percent Happier, which ranks in the top 100. Harris, a seasoned reporter with over two decades of experience as an anchor and in the field, seamlessly weaves meditation into his narrative, highlighting its profound effects on stress reduction and clarity of thought, making it an integral part of his mission to promote well-being in the modern world. Renowned for his candid exploration of the interior, journalist Dan Harris inspires others with his personal journey, emphasizing the transformative impact of a mentally resilient approach to ambitious professional endeavors. His guests have included everyone from His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Brené Brown to Karamo from Queer Eye. Dan's approach is seemingly modest, but secretly radical: happiness is a skill you can train.

Sharing poignant examples from his own life, Harris lays out the (often winding) road to personal resilience. For his work, Harris has earned an Edward R. Murrow Award and four News & Documentary Emmy Awards. His TED Talk went viral, launching a new movement in mindfulness. He has spoken at Google and shared his mindfulness practice nationally on ABC News, NPR, Good Morning America, and more.

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Scott Mann motivates audiences to make new and deeper connections to lead through troubled times. There is an art and science to strategic influence, and Scott Mann will show your people how. In Afghan Villages, Mann had to build trust in five minutes or less. He is a warrior storyteller who breaks your event wide open by casting aside the podium and PowerPoint to share riveting stories on bridging trust gaps with strategic rapport-building skills.

Mann is the author of the instant New York Times bestseller Operation Pineapple Express, where he led 150 veterans in saving 1,000 Afghan Allies from the Taliban using nothing but cell phones and relationships. Mann has since founded Operation Pineapple Express Relief, a 501c3 to help support those affected by the Global War on Terror. He has testified to the House Foreign Affairs committee on National Security Issues and spoken on leadership, strength, and service on three TEDx stages. He has been welcomed by hosts including American Bakers' Association, National PTA, Wichita State University Baseball, Tunnel to Towers, EOS, Spartan Race, and many more. Mann regularly appears on CNN and FOX NEWS.

Scott's latest book, Nobody Is Coming to Save You: A Green Beret's Guide to Getting Big Sh*t Done, inspires readers to build confidence and take charge of their lives. No matter where you live, work, or play — in real estate, in corporate sales, in HR, for a community volunteer group, in a non-profit, in politics — Mann's lessons on self-reliance and showing up authentically will resonate with your audience.

Fashion model and Indigenous Land Protector Quannah Chasinghorse is the face of a new generation of models and a powerful advocate and activist for Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and representation. Chasinghorse is from the Han Gwich’in from Eagle Village, Alaska and Sicangu/Oglala Lakota tribes from the Rosebud Reservation, South Dakota. She grew up learning Indigenous ways of life and values and continues to uphold them. She is a fourth-generation land protector for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, growing up in the movement to protect those sacred lands from oil development, fighting for climate justice. With each new opportunity, Chasinghorse educates people about her culture and her journey.

Chasinghorse has walked the runway for Gucci and Chloé and starred in campaigns for Calvin Klein and Chanel, among other high-end brands. She has appeared on the covers of Vogue, Elle, Allure, and National Geographic, and was honored on Teen Vogue’s 2020 list of “Top 21 Under 21.” Quannah and her mother were recently featured on an episode of Hillary and Chelsea Clinton’s Apple+ TV series Gutsy, which celebrated environmental activists, and was the subject of the documentary Walking Two Worlds. Beyond her advocacy as a land protector, she champions Indigenous rights and sovereignty, and justice for the movement MMIWG2S, which stands for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People. In all she does, Quannah celebrates indigenous practices and fashion and works to increase representation and break the trail for those following in her footsteps.

Founder, chief creative officer, best-selling author, and philanthropist, Kendra Scott, started her company in 2002, just three months after her first son was born. With only $500 and a tea box to carry her collection, she went store to store selling her designs. Her dedication to innovation, quality, customer service, and attention to detail has since transformed her small startup into a billion-dollar brand. Today, with over 2,600 employees and more than 140+ standalone stores, Kendra Scott is celebrated for its design and material innovation, vibrant use of color, and signature shapes. The lifestyle brand offers a diverse range of products, including fashion, demi-fine and fine jewelry, watches, engagement rings, home accessories, a men’s collection (Scott Bros. by Kendra Scott), and a western-inspired brand (Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott).

 As the brand continues to grow, Kendra and her company remain true to their founding philosophy of “Family, Fashion, and Philanthropy,” benefiting both customers and employees. Since 2010, Kendra Scott has donated over $70 million to local, national, and international causes supporting women and youth.

Driven by a deep-rooted passion for empowering the next generation of leaders, Kendra founded the Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute (KS WELI) at The University of Texas at Austin in 2019 to empower women and creatives looking to change the world through entrepreneurship. This interdisciplinary program, involving the College of Fine Arts, the McCombs School of Business, the College of Natural Sciences, the Cockrell School of Engineering and School of Undergraduate Studies, empowers, equips, and builds a community for creatives, founders and leaders.

 In 2023, Kendra furthered her commitment to philanthropy by launching the Kendra Scott Foundation. The foundation is dedicated to empowering women and youth in the areas of health and wellness, education, and entrepreneurship. Notable programs supported by the foundation include initiatives around breast cancer research and awareness, pediatric hospitals, and early education literacy.

Kendra is a reoccurring investor/guest Shark on ABC’s Emmy Award-winning show “Shark Tank”. Kendra also serves on the board of directors for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the Council of Fashion Designers of America, while maintaining her role as Executive Chairwoman and Chief Creative Officer of Kendra Scott, LLC. Today, the company continues to operate out of Austin, Texas, where Kendra resides with her family.

Exoneree, journalist, and New York Times bestselling author Amanda Knox spent four years in an Italian prison and eight years on trial for a murder she didn’t commit. The scandal made headlines for nearly a decade, as Amanda – dubbed “Foxy Knoxy” – was exploited by the media and judged by the masses on a global scale. Though she was exonerated by Italy’s highest court, she was sentenced to life by the court of public opinion, forever branded as a killer despite her innocence. Since her exoneration, Amanda has fought to reclaim her identity and to find meaning in those stolen years and unjust incarceration, all while advocating for a more just legal system and a more ethical media.

Thoughtful, passionate, and revelatory, Amanda Knox has captivated audiences across the country and abroad, sharing the wisdom she learned the hard way about how to find resilience in the face of tremendous adversity. She is the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir Waiting to Be Heard, and co-host – with her husband Christopher Robinson – of the podcast Labyrinths, which delves into stories of getting lost and found again through compassionate interviews, philosophical rants, and playful debate with fascinating people. Amanda sits on the board of the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice, serves as an Innocence Network Ambassador, and is an advocate for criminal justice reform and media ethics.

Jane Coaston is an expert on American conservatism. Her current podcast, What A Day, is a 20-minute morning overview of "what truly matters," bringing on experts to discuss the big stories shaping today. She is a Fall 2024 Fellow at USC Center for the Political Future, where she leads students in a close study of cultural and political movements. Coaston also is an on-air contributor for the Chris Wallace Show and other CNN shows. She was previously a contributing opinion writer at The New York Times and former senior politics reporter at VOX. She hosted the popular New York Times podcast, The Argument, which offered context, analysis, and good-faith engagement on current political debates. Jane was a Senior Politics Reporter at Vox, covering current events spanning from the Republican Party to the Black Lives Matter Movement. Her work has appeared on MSNBC, CNN, ABC News, NPR, The Ringer, Buzzfeed, and The Washington Post, and she has written for publications ranging from ESPN Magazine to The National Review. Coaston’s compelling perspectives and commentary challenge conventional thinking, offering fresh insights into today’s most important debates.

As a foremost expert on the American Conservative movement, Coaston is highly sought-out among top political institutions for her thought leadership. She is a current resident at the USC Center for the Political Future former resident fellow at the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics. Coaston has spoken to the Texas Tribune Festival, SXSW, Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies, Stony Brook University, University of Virginia, University of Southern California, University of Michigan.

White House Correspondent and political analyst Laura Barrón-López is an expert on current U.S. politics. She is the White House Correspondent for the PBS NewsHour, where she covers the Biden administration for the nightly news broadcast. She is also a political analyst on CNN. Her expertise in U.S. government affairs reflects over a decade of covering breaking news in politics. Previously, Barrón-López was a White House reporter for POLITICO, where she covered the national Presidential election. She has led the Washington Examiner’s coverage of the Democratic Party, coverage of Congress for HuffPost, and coverage of environmental policy for The Hill. Barrón-López’s sharp analysis, compelling storytelling, and engaging presentation style captivate audiences globally.

Barrón-López is an expert on the hottest political issues on voters’ minds today. Her voice has been sought by UVA’s Miller Center, the Texas Tribune Festival, the Atlantic Festival, the Professional Women in Advocacy Conference, and more. Pairing personal stories from her time as a reporter with her in-depth knowledge of current events, Barrón-López leaves audiences feeling inspired and informed.

MIT-trained engineer and tech entrepreneur Krisztina “Z” Holly, curator of the first ever TEDx event, has been at the forefront of innovation throughout her career. She started her career as a serial tech entrepreneur in Boston and Silicon Valley before spending over a decade building pioneering innovation centers at MIT and USC. The White House subsequently invited her to help spread her novel model across the United States. Today, she invests in early-stage complex science and technology startups as an operating partner at Good Growth Capital and is a sought-after advisor and speaker to organizations around the world. She has been recognized by Rolling Stone, Forbes, WIRED, and Entrepreneur Mag for her ability to scout and cultivate talent and catalyze global initiatives. With a proven track record of fostering innovation, Z’s insights come from real-world experience.

Z has spoken at Davos, the White House, YPO Entrepreneurial Energy, NBC Universal, and the National Academy of Sciences Innovation Summit; she has facilitated numerous sessions for the World Economic Forum with heads of state and CEOs of Fortune 100 companies. She regularly appears as a public expert and interviewer, leading conversations with tech “rockstars” such as Biz Stone and Tim O'Reilly, interviewing world-famous extreme athletes, and facilitating panels with university presidents and global leaders. Z’s authentic style and tailored messages resonate with a wide range of audiences, from students and aspiring entrepreneurs to academics and top executives. 

Veteran journalist Dylan Byers is a founding partner and senior correspondent at Puck, a news media startup and C-suite must-read covering Hollywood, Silicon Valley, Wall Street, and Washington. Before Puck, Byers served as the senior media reporter at NBC News, where he authored the “Byers Market” newsletter and hosted the Byers Market podcast. He has also worked at CNN, where he served as the senior media reporter and authored the Pacific newsletter, and Politico, where he authored the "On Media" blog. As a speaker, Byers draws from his extensive experience covering technology, media, and business to offer a unique blend of industry analysis, journalistic rigor, and engaging storytelling to captivate audiences and spark thought-provoking discussions.

Byers will ensure your event receives timely, relevant, and impactful perspectives on the pressing issues shaping our digital world. Byers has brought unparalleled expertise and insights to the stage for SXSW, Cannes Lions, Collision, the Global Financial Leadership Conference, and many more.

Practicing family physician and many-time bestselling author Mark Hyman, MD is an internationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of Functional Medicine. Dr. Hyman is the founder and director of The UltraWellness Center, founder and Senior Advisor for the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, and Board President for Clinical Affairs for The Institute for Functional Medicine. He is a fifteen-time New York Times bestselling author of The Pegan Diet, Food Fix, and most recently Young Forever – an instant #1 NYT bestseller. Through his writing and in his sought-after talks, Dr. Hyman offers a revolutionary, practical guide to creating and sustaining health – for life.

Dr. Hyman is the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Function Health and the founder and chairman of the Food Fix Campaign – dedicated to transforming our food and agriculture system through policy. He is the host of one of the leading health podcasts, The Doctor’s Farmacy, which has over 250M+ downloads. Dr. Hyman is a regular medical contributor to CBS This Morning, Today, Fox, CNN, Good Morning America, The View, and CNN.

Through his work to change policy for the betterment of public health, Dr. Hyman has testified before the Senate Working Group on Health Care Reform on Functional Medicine. He has consulted with the surgeon general on diabetes prevention and participated in the White House Forum on Prevention and Wellness. Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa nominated Dr. Hyman for the President’s Advisory Group on Prevention, Health Promotion, and Integrative and Public Health. With topics ranging from food as medicine, to disruption in the healthcare system, to how technological advancements like AI will impact our approach to health, Dr. Hyman is an informed, engaging advocate who motivates his audiences toward lasting change.

Peabody and two-time Emmy-winning correspondent, producer, and author Antonia Hylton reports at the intersection of politics, civil rights, and immigration. She is currently a correspondent for NBC News and MSNBC. From 2016 to 2020, Antonia was a Correspondent and Producer for Vice Media and HBO’s nightly news and documentary show, Vice News Tonight. Since 2019, she has served as an annual judge for the American Mosaic Journalism Prize. She is the co-host of the hit podcasts Southlake and Grapevine, and author of the book Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum. Hylton reports on the hardest-hitting stories of today, shaping the conversations beyond the headlines with her sharp critical analysis.

Hylton is one of the most respected journalists of her generation, winning a Peabody, two Emmy Awards, two Gracie Awards, a NAMIC Vision Award, and two Front Page Awards for special reporting and breaking news. She was named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30 - Media.” Beyond the professional sphere, she has conquered a rare form of colon cancer and is an outspoken advocate for preventative care and screenings. Hylton’s will to change the world and dedication to storytelling are consistent across her award-winning journalism, public health advocacy, and live engagements.

Women’s health expert Dr. Sharon Malone has been active in advocating for reproductive rights, reducing teen pregnancy, and eliminating health care disparities. She is the Chief Medical Advisor at Alloy Women’s Health, a telehealth company focusing on women over 40. Before joining Alloy, Dr. Malone was a partner at one of the oldest and most successful OB/GYN medical practices in Washington, D.C. She is board-certified by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and certified by the North American Menopause Society as a Certified National Menopause Practitioner. She is the author of the New York Times bestseller Grown Woman Talk, called a “must-read” by Michelle Obama. Dr. Malone’s speeches are informed by her extensive clinical experience, advocacy work, and commitment to improving health outcomes for all women.

Dr. Malone believes that all women should be able to make decisions regarding their health and quality of life based on facts – not fear. Dr. Malone serves on the D.C. Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy Board and the regional panel for the White House Fellows Program selection. She was appointed to the selection committee for the Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction awarded by the University of Alabama School of Law. In addition, Dr. Malone has consistently been voted one of Washingtonian Magazine’s “Best Doctors" and named to Forbes' "50 Over 50" list. Dr. Malone’s compassionate approach to patient education and care allows her to make any audience feel welcome, comfortable, and informed.

Award-winning filmmaker Allen Hughes is an accomplished storyteller, whose work explores the American Dream through the lens of pop culture, its intersection with politics, and the global impact of the hip-hop artform. At twenty, Hughes and his twin brother catapulted into the entertainment industry as the creators & directors of Menace II Society. Hughes and his brother are behind the films Dead Presidents, From Hell, The Book of Eli, and the documentary American Pimp. Hughes is the creative architect behind the critically acclaimed four-part HBO documentary series The Defiant Ones, the stories of Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre. The series was nominated for five Emmys, a Peabody Award, and won the Grammy Award for Best Music Film, the IDA Documentary Award for Best Limited Series, and the NAACP Image Award.

Hughes is the director and executive producer of FX’s Emmy-nominated Dear Mama, the first definitive, comprehensive five-part documentary series on the late hip hop icon Tupac Shakur. The series encompasses his relationship with his mother, Afeni Shakur – a celebrated activist – and was produced with the full cooperation of Shakur’s estate, including access to all his music and poetry. Hughes is also the executive producer of Netflix’s Arnold, the three-part documentary series which chronicles Arnold Schwarzenegger’s journey from the countryside of Austria to the highest echelons of the American dream. The series is produced by Hughes’ production company Defiant Ones Media Group. A documentarian with his attention on the movements and cultural moments that have shaped history, Hughes shares his insights in captivating moderated conversations about the intersection of creativity, art, politics, and culture.

Professional BMX athlete, creative, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Nigel Sylvester is one of the most culturally relevant cyclists today. Sylvester was catapulted to the forefront of the sports world due to his progressive riding style, innovative content creation, and one-of-a-kind artistic expression and style. He has been a Jordan Brand signed athlete, featured in countless global and digital campaigns. Sylvester created ‘GO Ride,’ hosting a first-of-its-kind transatlantic 30-mile bike ride in London and New York City in honor of World Bicycle Day. His drive to give back led him to start the Nigel Sylvester Foundation, dedicated to transforming the lives of underserved youth, uniting diverse communities, and more. Today, Sylvester is one of the most widely recognized athletes in the world.

Sylvester is known for his outspoken advocacy, grit, and innovative creativity. Sylvester was featured in ESPN’s ‘Body Issue’ and included in Forbes Magazine’s “30 Under 30” list. Sylvester has spoken to Nike, Samsung, Chase, UNLOQ, Fashion Tech Forum, eBay, StockX, Complex, Gillette, Oakley about his many achievements across sports, business, and media.

Multiple Emmy, Peabody, and DuPont Award-winning journalist Suzanne Malveaux is the CEO and President of Malveaux Global Media. Malveaux spent two decades at CNN, bringing ground-breaking journalism to the network. There, she covered the White House for 10 years, interviewed 5 U.S. Presidents, embedded with U.S. troops in Afghanistan, and reported on the war in Ukraine from the front lines. Malveaux was recently recognized by Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism for covering "One of the Top 50 Stories of the Century" for her reporting on then-Senator Obama's 2008 presidential campaign. Malveaux is also a profound advocate for ALS patients, winning a Gracie Award for her work documenting her mother’s journey with the condition.

Malveaux is Co-Chair of the International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF), sits on the Board of Trustees for HBCU Xavier University, and is a former board member of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. She has been named “Journalist of the Year” by Essence Magazine and one of “America’s Most Powerful Players under 40” by Black Enterprise. Malveaux has been named an Aspen Institute Henry Crown Fellow as well as an Aspen Global Leadership Network fellow and has participated in numerous panels at the Aspen Institute Ideas Festival.

Tracy McGrady, affectionately known as "T-Mac," is a legendary former NBA superstar and a Hall of Famer who made an indelible mark on the league. A seven-time NBA All-Star and two-time scoring champion, McGrady was known for his versatility and scoring prowess. Drafted 9th overall in the 1997 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors, over his profound career, McGrady also played for the Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, and Atlanta Hawks. McGrady is a captivating speaker who brings the same passion and determination to the stage as he did the court.

McGrady’s lifelong dedication to the NBA is a testament to his commitment to community. His influence extends beyond the court, with a significant social media following, philanthropic connections, and widespread appeal in the sports community. Since retiring, McGrady has remained active in the basketball world by founding the Ones Basketball League (OBL), a competitive platform that celebrates the best one-on-one players. Whether discussing his NBA career, sports culture, or his focus on youth mentorship, McGrady’s story inspires audiences to pursue excellence, embrace leadership, and find purpose beyond their circumstances.

For more than twenty-five years, Bill Maher has set the boundaries of where funny, political talk can go on American television.  First on Politically Incorrect (Comedy Central, ABC, 1993-2002), and for more than twenty years on HBO’s Real Time, Maher’s combination of unflinching honesty and big laughs have garnered him 42 Emmy nominations. After naming him the 6th most influential person in media for 2023, Mediaite noted, “Maher is one of the few people in media to achieve true multi-platform success.”

One of the wittiest satirists today, Maher builds on his distinctly perceptive, occasionally politically incorrect humor live from the podium, touching on his esteemed career across comedic mediums. Most recently, Maher released his blockbuster, New York Times bestselling book What This Comedian Said Will Shock You, a brilliantly astute and acerbically funny vivisection of American life, politics, and culture. His podcast, Club Random with Bill Maher, is recorded at the bar on his property in Los Angeles and features free flowing, long-form conversations about anything and everything with a wide range of eclectic guests. Just like his work, Maher’s talks are uproarious, edgy, and unforgettably fun.

American television host, comedian, writer, and producer Jimmy Kimmel is best known as an iconic late-night host. As the host and executive producer of ABC’s longest-running late-night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Kimmel has hosted some of the biggest events and moments in pop culture. Kimmel began working in radio during high school, then pivoted to on-screen hosting. Previously, Kimmel hosted and produced several comedy series, including Comedy Central’s The Man Show and Win Ben Stein’s Money, for which he won an Emmy award for Best Game Show Host. Kimmel has hosted three Primetime Emmy Awards and four Academy Awards. Through his work as a moderator and host, Kimmel has undeniably become a household name.

Kimmel has been named one of Time’s “The World’s 100 Most Influential People” for his work in the media and entertainment industry. He teamed up with four other superstar comedians to create the chart-topping Strike Force Five to support television writers nationally. Known for his clean, honest humor, Kimmel can make any audience laugh.

Emmy Award-winning journalist Jemele Hill is known for bringing a unique perspective to her analysis of sports and social issues. Hill’s 20-plus year journalism career has included stops at the biggest sports media network and several reputable newspapers. She is currently a contributing writer for The Atlantic, after rising to prominence through ESPN, where she provided undeniably fresh takes on sports content as a host of SportsCenter, First Take, Around the Horn, The Sports Reporters, and Outside the Lines. Her independent commentary took off with a weekly, late-night show on Vice Network called Cari & Jemele: Won’t Stick to Sports, co-hosted with Hill’s longtime friend, former ESPN anchor Cari Champion. As fans flocked to her personal brand, Hill’s podcast career launched with the two-time Webby award-winning podcast Jemele Hill is Unbothered, featuring in-depth, thought-provoking conversation with some of the biggest newsmakers across entertainment, culture, music, and politics. Previous guests include Vice President Kamala Harris, Ice Cube, Spike Lee, Chelsea Clinton, Stephen Colbert, Issa Rae, and more A-listers. Her memoir, UPHILL, one of Oprah Daily’s Best Nonfiction Books, reveals her tumultuous childhood, complicated family dynamics, and her life-saving journey into journalism. Hill explores topical and controversial issues with humorous, candid commentary.

Hill’s career emphasizes the power of dialogue and conversation in bridging divides, fostering understanding, and driving positive change within society. Hill founded a podcast network, Unbothered, and co-founded Lodge Freeway Media to empower other women of color in sports media production. She is a highly lauded journalist, honored with two NAACP Awards and the National Association of Black Journalists’ Journalist of the Year Award. Hill has been invited to speak at Harvard University, Stanford University, Google, and many more.

Former NBA player turned philanthropist Alonzo Mourning focuses his energy on empowering others through advocacy, education, and enrichment. Mourning founded the Mourning Family Foundation, which has raised more than $25M for various programs that aid in the development of children and their families. He further contributes to family wellness as a member of the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. He continues his involvement with basketball as Vice President of Player Programs and Development with the Miami Heat and Chair of the McDonald’s All-American Game Advisory Committee. A seven-time NBA All-Star and two-time Defensive Player of the Year, Mourning has been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Shortly after winning an Olympic gold medal, Mourning was diagnosed with Focal Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a rare genetic kidney disease and underwent a successful kidney transplant. In addition to his philanthropy, Mourning is a highly respected business leader and has numerous business development projects in the Miami area. A leader in all his pursuits, Mourning’s inspiring story encourages audiences to dream big.

Consistently recognized for his charitable efforts, Mourning has received numerous awards, including the NBA’s Community Assist Award, National Urban League’s Outstanding Community Service Award, Silver Medallion Community Service Award by the National Conference for Community and Justice, and NBA’s J. Walter Kennedy Sportsmanship Award, The Children’s Trust Excellence Award for Public Policy, and more. Mourning has been sought after as an orator to inspire audiences ranging from sales teams to nephrologists.

Olivia Munn is an actor, activist and mother who was recently named to 2024’s TIME 100 Most Influential People. Earlier that year, Munn posted the story of her ongoing battle with breast cancer; urging women to advocate for early detection by taking a Breast Cancer Lifetime Assessment risk test. The National Cancer Institute said that Munn’s outreach “led to a surge in visits to the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool site.” The rate of women taking this formerly little-known test increased 4000%. For her advocacy, Munn was honored with the Woman of Impact Award at InStyle's Imagemaker Awards. 

Best known for her brilliant work across three seasons of Aaron Sorkin’s The Newsroom, Olivia Munn also starred in such iconoclastic films as Magic Mike, The Predator, X-Men: Apocalypse, and Office Christmas Party.  Munn was then hired as the first East Asian Correspondent on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and appeared on the show for two Emmy-winning seasons. Olivia Munn was an early and active Silence Breaker in the #MeToo movement. She exposed predatory behavior in Hollywood and championed other victims who came forward to share their stories. For her efforts to shed light on abusers and give voice to victims, Munn was honored by the United Nation Foundation. After a startling rise in Anti-Asian violence following the COVID-19 outbreak, Munn, who is half Chinese-Vietnamese, tackled the issue on multiple fronts. She became a leader in the #StopAsianHate movement; raising money, filming public service announcements, and coordinating with mayors and police departments throughout the United States. She was invited to the White House by President Biden to be in attendance when he signed the COVID 19 Hate Crimes Act into law. Whether discussing the challenges of Hollywood, the power of authenticity, or her advocacy work, Munn’s discussions resonate deeply and provide valuable perspectives that inspire positive change.

Recording artist, actor, author, and Founder and CEO of Rock The Bells, LL COOL J is a two-time Grammy® Award-winning Hip-Hop icon, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, NAACP Image Award winner, and Kennedy Center Honoree. LL COOL J began in the nascent, burgeoning rap and Hip-Hop scene of the 80’s when he signed to Def Jam at age 16, quickly proving himself with outstanding musical talent and business acumen. He was the first rap artist to amass 10 consecutive platinum-plus selling albums. Over the past three decades, LL COOL J has created one of the most multifaceted careers and enduring brands in entertainment.

In 2018, LL launched Rock The Bells Radio on SiriusXM (Ch.43), garnering millions of daily listeners. LL personally curates and programs the timeless Hip-Hop channel with music, interviews, and in-depth retrospectives. Whether discussing the intersection of art and commerce or the keys to personal and professional success, LL COOL J captivates with his authenticity and wisdom. 

As a Lecturer in Organizational Behavior at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, Matt Abrahams teaches popular classes in strategic communication and effective virtual presenting. Abrahams hosts the popular, Webby award-winning podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast, which is the #1 Careers podcast in 95 countries including the US, UK, India, China, Mexico, and Brazil.

His new book Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot provides tangible, actionable skills to help even the most anxious of speakers succeed when speaking spontaneously, such as navigating Q&A sessions, shining in job interviews, providing effective feedback, making small talk, fixing faux pas, persuading others. His previous book Speaking Up without Freaking Out: 50 Techniques for Confident and Compelling Presenting has helped thousands of people manage speaking anxiety and present more confidently and authentically. 

Abrahams is a compelling speaker for any organization due to his expertise in communication, engaging delivery style, and ability to provide practical strategies for improving interpersonal and professional interactions. His talks garner millions of views online with one talk at over 37M views to date.

Outside of the classroom, Abrahams is a sought-after keynote speaker and communication consultant. He has helped countless presenters improve and hone their communication, including some who have delivered IPO road shows as well as Nobel Prize, TED, and World Economic Forum presentations. He also consults for the United Nations’ Secretary General’s Strategic Planning and Communication Office and many fortune 100 companies. He has spoken to many companies big and small, including Google, Accenture, Apple, McKinsey, Toastmasters, several NGOs (e.g., the United Nations), the FBI, and more.

Management thought leader and award-winning organizational psychologist Wendy K. Smith is on a mission to help individuals and organizations turn our problems into possibilities. Smith currently holds the prestigious title of Dana J. Johnson Professor of Management and serves as the faculty director of the Women's Leadership Initiative at the Lerner College of Business and Economics, University of Delaware. Wendy is also one of the youngest people named as an Academy of Management Fellow. As an organizational psychologist, she is a leading expert on the power of paradox - applying both/and thinking to help us innovate, change and generate more creative, sustainable solutions to our toughest challenges. In her talks, Wendy brings science-based research to life with real world stories to both captivate and motivate her audiences.

Smith is the author of Both/And Thinking: Embracing Creative Tensions to Solve Your Toughest Problems, named a Top 10 Management Book by Thinkers50, a finalist for the Next Big Idea Award, and a #1 Amazon New Release. Smith and co-author Marianne Lewis were awarded the Thinkers50 Breakthrough Idea Award for these groundbreaking ideas. Wendy is also an award-winning scholar. She has been named the Web of Science Highly Cited Researchers for being among the top 1% most-cited researchers for 5 years in a row. She has published her research in influential journals such as the Academy of Management Journal, Administrative Science Quarterly, Organization Science, and Management Science, while also reaching beyond academia to publish in Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company, Newsweek, and others. As a compelling and engaging teacher, she won the MBA Excellence in Teaching Award 5 times.

Beyond accolades and awards, Wendy's passion lies in helping leaders worldwide tackle the complex challenges of interpersonal dynamics, team performance, organizational change, and innovation to transform their organizations and the world. Approachable, insightful, and globally revered, she continues to shape the future of management thinking.

Mathematics professor, hedge fund manager, and blackjack player Dr. Edward O. Thorp is a pioneer in quantitative finance and the quantitative revolution in investing. As founder of the first quantitative hedge fund, Dr. Thorp is an expert in the fields of game theory, functional analysis, probability & statistics, and mathematical finance. To beat roulette, he and the father of information theory, Claude Shannon, invented the first wearable computer. Dr. Thorp is also the New York Times bestselling author of Beat the Dealer, the first book to mathematically prove that the house advantage in blackjack could be overcome by card counting. Dr. Thorp's ability to blend academic rigor with real-world application ensures that his presentations are both intellectually stimulating and practically relevant.

Seen on Science News, Forbes, Bloomberg, Business Insider, and more, Dr. Thorp is a known and respected voice in any community concerned with numbers, probability, and strategic thinking. He has spoken at AQR Capital Management, UCI Libraries, MIT, and more. Dr. Thorp's engaging speaking style will leave a lasting impression, inspiring attendees to think differently about risk and opportunity.

A Senior Advisor to President Joe Biden, Anita Dunn has played a significant role in shaping modern political strategy and public policy. Previously, Dunn served as White House Communications Director under President Obama, where she managed messaging during critical moments of his presidency. President Joe Biden called her “an invaluable part of our White House.”

Named one of Washingtonian’s “Most Powerful Women,” Dunn has broken barriers and holds a unique role in Washington, having been the only person who has served as a senior advisor of the winning campaigns for two different presidents. Dunn currently serves as an advisor to Future Forward. Dunn’s expertise in managing communications during high-stakes situations, especially from her time in the White House, provides a rich source of lessons for organizations in any field.

Conor Grennan is Chief AI Architect at NYU Stern School of Business, where he builds generative AI fluency across the institution, including MBAs, faculty, and administration. Prior to that role, he served as Dean of Students for the past 10 years. Outside of NYU, Grennan is the CEO and Founder of AI Mindset, an AI consulting company that trains professionals, leaders, and organizations on a new and effective framework for generative AI. Grennan is also the Head GenAI Trainer for the Chief Executive Group and LinkedIn Learning’s instructor for AI for Business. He has keynoted on generative AI at the Generative AI World Conference, Generative AI Week, PWC’s Trust Leadership Academy, MetTel’s Innovation Conference, Correlation One’s CHRO Insights event, the Franchise CEO Summit, the Chief Executive Annual Summit, and many other large-scale events.

Grennan is also a New York Times #1 bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and executive coach.  His AI insights have been featured in Entrepreneur, Business Insider, Vox, and other media outlets. He co-hosts the AI Applied podcast (top 20 in Business News) and is a Top Voice in Public Speaking on LinkedIn, where he has over 65k followers that track his generative AI insights. Grennan is singularly primed to bring audiences insights on AI usage and applications.

During his tenure as NASA’s longest-serving Administrator, The Honorable Dan S. Goldin transformed America’s aeronautics and space program. He is credited with the re-emergence of NASA after the Cold War. Despite lower budgets, his “faster, better, cheaper” approach enabled the Agency to deliver programs of high value to the American public without sacrificing safety. Prior to his tenure at NASA, Mr. Goldin served as a leading national security executive, producing systems of high national priority. As the founder of Cold Canyon, an innovation advisory company, and as a senior advisor to Cerberus Capital Management, his career spans space exploration and science, aeronautics, air traffic management, national security systems, semiconductors, advanced sensors, hypersonic, communications, and artificial intelligence. With his accumulated experience, Mr. Goldin is a highly sought-after leader in advancing American technologies and businesses. Mr. Goldin has recently spoken at SXSW, the Space Symposium, Purdue University, the International Aviation Women’s Association, and many more.

Mr. Goldin is a Member of the National Academy of Engineering, and the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy. He is a Fellow of the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics and the American Astronautical Society, and an Honorary Board Member of the Explorers Club.  Mr. Goldin has received the Goddard Memorial Trophy, the premier award from the National Space Club and Foundation, and the General James E. Hill Lifetime Space Achievement Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Space Foundation. Mr. Goldin holds 18 Honorary Doctorates from the world’s great universities. As a deep tech champion, Mr. Goldin brings firsthand expertise to the stage, empowering audiences to navigate and harness cutting-edge technologies for transformative business growth and innovation. 

Contemporary family influencers Jett and Campbell (aka Pookie) Puckett have taken the social media world by storm with their authentic love story, infectious positivity, and "absolutely fire" style, engaging and inspiring a vast audience. Their viral TikTok catchphrase, "Pookie is looking absolutely fire," has resonated with millions, making their content a favorite on the internet. Love is the at the forefront of all the Puckett family’s content, organically weaving their shared love of fashion, beauty, food, travel, sports, and lifestyle into their modern-day love story.

The Puckett family’s in-person live Q&A with Rent The Runway sold out and had a line around the venue well after the session had ended. They have also worked with brands including Armani Beauty, Aritzia, Formula 1, Target, and Summer Fridays. Their instant popularity has been chronicled in People Magazine, Paper Magazine, The Cut, and more.

Curtis Stone is a Los Angeles-based Michelin-starred chef, restaurateur, author and culinary entrepreneur. In addition to several Michelin-starred restaurants, Curtis operates Curtis Stone Events in Los Angeles and Australia, a full-service events and catering company that crafts personalized occasions for guests. Outside his restaurants, Curtis is widely known for his appearances on television programs such as the NBC Top Chef franchise, Field Trip with Curtis Stone on PBS, Crime Scene Kitchen on FOX, Netflix’s Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend, and his show/podcast Getting Grilled with Curtis Stone. A New York Times bestselling author, Curtis has authored six cookbooks including his most recent, Good Food, Good Life. Curtis developed Kitchen Solutions, a sleek and functional cookware collection, which has become the best-reviewed brand and top-selling culinary line on the Home Shopping Network. Curtis was recognized with the Medal of the Order of Australia for his outstanding achievement and service in tourism and hospitality. As a beloved TV personality and successful restaurateur, Curtis’s engaging storytelling and infectious enthusiasm make him a standout speaker for culinary events, corporate gatherings, and any audience who loves to eat.

As a public figure, Curtis has dedicated himself to giving back. In 2016, Curtis began a new pledge to give back through his #Commit2One initiative. Each year he partners with a charity, devoting the majority of his time and resources to the cause. Through these efforts, he has raised funds and awareness for The National Young Farmer’s Coalition, Chrysalis, AdoptTogether, and Share Our Strength, which aims to end childhood hunger through their No Kid Hungry campaign. Curtis brings his passion for food to the world stage, captivating audiences with his culinary journey and impact work.

Entrepreneur and media architect Rich Kleiman is the co-Founder and CEO of Boardroom – a sports and entertainment company that includes the flagship media network, Boardroom.TV. Founded in 2019 by Kleiman and Kevin Durant, Boardroom covers the business of sports, music, and entertainment, with a special focus on the ways that athletes, executives, musicians, and creators are moving the business world forward. Other projects under the Boardroom umbrella include the critically acclaimed scripted series SWAGGER in partnership with Imagine Entertainment and Apple TV+, the Academy-Award-winning short film Two Distant Strangers (Netflix), and Emmy-nominated documentary NYC Point Gods (Showtime). Most recently, Kleiman announced the launch of Boardroom Advisory, an offering for talent and brands to help them navigate business strategy, content creation, sports ownership opportunities, and venture & private equity investing.

Kleiman has been Kevin Durant’s manager since 2013, and brokered KD's lifetime deal with Nike. He is co-Founder of 35V, which houses over 100 early-stage investments across sports, technology, finance, media, and more. The 35V portfolio includes digital sports network Overtime, Coinbase, Acorns, Postmates, and NBA Top Shot by Dapper Labs. Kleiman serves as the Executive Director of the Durant Family Foundation (fka Kevin Durant Charity Foundation), helping underserved and low-income families and youth across the globe. He also sits on the Board of Directors at New Heights Youth, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to sports-based youth development and education in New York City.  As both a speaker and a moderator, Kleiman generates high-impact conversations on building robust and lasting business portfolios, maintaining mental wellness as an elite performer, and learning from your mistakes to build an industry-transforming business.

Emmy-nominated late-night writer and Netflix featured comedian Nimesh Patel has risen through the ranks to some of comedy’s biggest stages due to his unassailable joke writing, prolific output, and innovative marketing. He has self-produced three specials, amassing millions of views on YouTube alone: Lucky Lefty, Thank You China, and Jokes to Get You Through Quarantine. Named as one of Variety’s prestigious “10 Comics to Watch” of 2023 and hailed by Vulture as “a Comedian You Should and Will Know,” Patel has charted a path from sold-out comedy clubs to major theaters with the business acumen imbued by his degree from the NYU Stern School of Business. A fast-rising star who can create a bespoke set tailored to audiences in a variety of industries from FinTech to Healthcare to charity, Patel infuses his events with a perfect blend of laughter and thought-provoking conversation, fostering engagement and leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

Patel’s first writing job came after Chris Rock saw him perform standup and hired him directly to write for The Academy Awards as well as tour with him. Since then, Patel has written for Saturday Night Live with Vanity Fair hailing him as the show’s “most intriguing new hire,” A Little Late with Lilly Singh, The White House Correspondents Dinner, and was a producer for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee. He is a favorite on the late-night circuit with multiple appearances on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and Late Night with Seth Meyers. Patel brings his charm, wit, and expertise to events of any size, tuning his talking points to each audience.

Athlete, community builder, and mental health advocate Kendall Toole is a lightning rod of energy and natural-born fighter who knows how to harness the collective attention in any room. A top Peloton fitness instructor, Kendall is also a content creator and lifestyle entrepreneur on a purpose-driven mission to empower others. Kendall is passionate about destigmatizing mental health and is an ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and considers her own mental health journey a part of what makes her powerful.

Kendall spent time as a multi-sport athlete, amateur boxer, and actress, and realized her drive to change culture and empower communities, particularly women, to step into their light. This ultimately led Kendall to her tenure at Peloton, which catapulted her into pop culture stardom and viral reach on social media. Kendall has quickly become one of the most influential names in health & fitness and has amassed a loyal fanbase through her ability to stay “Never Knocked Out.” Through her in-demand classes, content, and speaking engagements, Kendall leaves a positive mark on her audiences by motivating those around her to find their voice and believe in their inner strength.

Dr. Jonathan Leary is the visionary Founder and CEO of Remedy Place, a revolutionary Social Wellness Club. At the intersection of design, holistic self-care, and human connection, Dr. Leary and Remedy Place are architecting a profound shift in the landscape of the $10+ trillion healthcare industry. Responding to a surge in demand from a market poised for exponential growth, Remedy Place has launched a global events division and introduced a collection of holistic technologies, ushering in a dynamic new era of self-care. Dr. Leary continues to innovate and inspire with an unwavering commitment to transforming lives and shaping industries. 

Beyond his leadership at Remedy Place, Dr. Leary is a sought-after speaker in the health and wellness arena. His expertise has been featured in top media outlets such as Vogue, The New York Times, The Times UK, and The Today Show, along with corporate keynotes for Delta Airlines, JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, The Global Wellness Summit, and YPO. He also has consulted with leading companies such as Kohler and Soho House, helping to shape wellness innovation and strategy.

Chess Grandmaster Judit Polgár is the International Chess Federation's official greatest female chess player of all time. At the age of 12, Polgár took the lead in the adult women’s world ranking, which she would hold for the next 26 years. By 14, she was already a two-time Women's Chess Olympic Champion (1988, 1990). Polgár won two further silver medals as member of the Hungarian men's team. At the age of 15 years and 4 months, she became a male international grandmaster, breaking Bobby Fischer's age record. In October 2005, Polgár ranked 8th in the absolute world ranking, as the first and, to date, the only female top 10 chess player. Polgár gave the informative and entertaining TED Talk “Giving checkmate is always fun,” and her talks on breaking the glass ceiling and strategic decision-making have delighted audiences worldwide.

Since retiring, Polgár has focused on the international promotion of the sport of chess, writing, and the Judit Polgár Chess Foundation. The World Chess Hall of Fame inductee has authored many books on chess, including Chess Palace, the Best European Learning Materials award-winning program now used by 40K children daily. Polgár has been an expert commentator at major international tournaments. Polgár has spoken at TED Conference, Morgan Stanley, CITI Bank, Exxon, the Warwick Economics Summit, and McKinsey: “We collectively think the speech Ms. Polgar gave during her presentation at our Executive event in September was excellent.”

An iconic figure in entertainment, Selma Blair is known for her impact on screen, in fashion, and as an activist. Blair’s film career began with her comedic roles in pop culture classics Cruel Intentions and Legally Blonde. Her film credits include Todd Solondz’s Storytelling, Roger Kumble’s The Sweetest Thing, Robert Benton’s Feast of Love, and John Water’s A Dirty Shame. Selma has reprised her role as “Liz Sherman” in Guillermo del Toro’s Hellboy II: The Golden Army, after starring in the original Hellboy. On television, Blair played “Kris Jenner” in FX’s The People vs. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story. On stage, Blair starred in Gruesome Playground Injuries and was nominated for a Grammy Award for “Best Spoken Word Recording” for her reading of The Diary of Anne Frank. On Season 31 of Dancing with the Stars, Blair won the award for The Competition Contestant of 2022 at the People’s Choice Awards. She released her first memoir to critical acclaim, The New York Times bestseller, Mean Baby. Blair can also be seen on screen as the subject of the award-winning documentary feature Introducing, Selma Blair.  In 2024, Blair was celebrated as one of British Vogue's 40 “Megastars.” Beloved by audiences globally, Blair’s work across several high-profile projects has solidified her reputation in Hollywood.

Today, Blair is the Chief Creative Officer of Guide Beauty, a multi-award-winning cosmetics company, and a tireless advocate for the causes close to her heart such as disability justice and diversity in media. For her advocacy, Blair was honored with the Equity in Entertainment Award by The Hollywood Reporter, the SAG-AFTRA Harold Russell Award, and the Media Access Visionary Award. She has also been honored with Glamour's esteemed Women of the Year award for her courageous commitment to challenging norms and shattering barriers. Blair has been recognized as one of TIME Magazine’s People of The Year, further solidifying her impact on social change. Blair has shared her vision for a better world with hosts including the Massachusetts Conference for Women, TBC United Nations, the University of Buffalo, and many more.

Academy-Award winning writer, director, and renowned playwright Aaron Sorkin brings a wealth of creative insight and storytelling mastery to any speaking event. Sorkin made his Broadway playwriting debut at the age of 28 with the military courtroom drama A Few Good Men, for which he received the John Gassner Award as Outstanding New American Playwright. Sorkin made the jump to feature films with his 1993 adaptation of his play A Few Good Men, nominated for four Academy Awards including Best Picture followed by Malice, The American President, and Charlie Wilson’s War. In 2011, Sorkin won the Academy Award, Critics’ Choice Award, British Academy of Film and Television Arts Award, and Writers Guild Award in the Best Adapted Screenplay category as well as the USC Scripter Award for The Social Network. The following year, Sorkin adapted Moneyball for the big screen and won Critics’ Choice Award and New York Film Critics’ Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and went on to receive four Academy Award nominations including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. For television, Sorkin created and produced NBC’s renowned series The West Wing, which earned nine Emmy nominations in its first season. The series went on to win a total of 26 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series for four consecutive years. For his work on the series, Sorkin twice received the Peabody Award and Humanitas Prize, as well as three Television Critics Association Awards, three Producers Guild Awards, and a Writers Guild Award.

For his many other popular works, Sorkin has also received nominations for a Broadcast Film Critics’ Association (BFCA) Critics’ Choice Award, BAFTA Awards, Writers Guild Awards, and multiple regional critics’ association awards. As one of the most highly-lauded writers of our time, Sorkin’s conversations blend entertainment industry insights with broader lessons about leadership, integrity, and creative innovation.

A Super Bowl champion and one of his generation’s most influential athletes, Russell Wilson continues to inspire through his unwavering commitment to excellence, not only on the field but also through his community work and entrepreneurship. Signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Wilson is entering his 13th year in the NFL. Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowler, currently ranks fourth all-time in career passer rating, and his 115 career wins rank second among active quarterbacks, exemplifying his dominance and establishing his place as one of the league’s premier players and champions. Known for his exceptional achievements on the field and his unwavering commitment to excellence, Wilson captivates audiences with compelling stories of perseverance, leadership, and community impact. Wilson’s conversations resonate with a wide range of topics, including mindset, performance under pressure, teamwork, and philanthropy.

Off the field, Wilson’s commitment to cause work led him to create the Why Not You Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating real and lasting change in the world by motivating and empowering today’s youth. In recognition of his philanthropic impact, Wilson earned the 2020 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award and the 2022 Bart Starr Award. Wilson’s engaging speaking style and authenticity leaves audiences motivated and equipped with practical strategies to overcome challenges, build strong teams, and make a meaningful difference in their personal and professional lives.

Grammy-Award winning R&B artist Ciara is a multi-platinum musician, songwriter, philanthropist, entrepreneur, mom of 4 children, and force of fashion. Over her two decades in music, she has sold over 23M records and 30M singles worldwide. Ciara was recently honored an NAACP Image award for her role as Nettie in 2023 adaptation film of The Color Purple. Ciara is an entrepreneurial female founder with brands launched both independently and with her husband Russell Wilson. She is the CEO of Beauty Marks Entertainment, Ten To One Rum, and OAM (On A Mission) skincare.

Ciara is also a philanthropist who co-founded the Why Not You Foundation with husband Russell Wilson, which is dedicated to fighting poverty through education and empowering today’s youth. This cause is close to her heart as a working mom and wife. Onstage, Ciara shares her perspectives on achievement, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.

Composer Jeanine Tesori has had an undeniable impact on the culture of musical theatre, opera, and film. Her musicals include Kimberly Akimbo; Soft Power; Fun Home; Shrek The Musical; Caroline, or Change; Thoroughly Modern Millie; and Violet. She is a two-time recipient of the Tony Award for Best Score and a two-time Finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and in 2015, she and Lisa Kron became the first all-woman team to win the Tony for Best Score of a Musical for Fun Home. Her operas include A Blizzard on Marblehead Neck; The Lion, The Unicorn and Me; and Blue, which received the MCANA Award for Best New Opera. For her opera, Grounded, she became one of the first two women to be commissioned by The Metropolitan Opera - and the first woman in the 139-year history of the Met to open a season. Tesori also served as Supervising Vocal Producer on Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Tesori brings a wealth of creative insight and industry expertise to any event.

Tesori is the Founding Artistic Director of New York City Center’s Encores! Off-Center series and a lecturer in music at Yale University. Jeanine has been the recipient of many honors, including the New York Drama Critics Circle Award and the Olivier Award for Best New Musical, as well as Drama Desk and Obie awards, and was cited by ASCAP as being the first woman composer to have “two new musicals running concurrently on Broadway.” Tesori offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice, drawing from her experiences in composing, storytelling, and collaboration.

Former professional basketball player Rex Chapman’s compelling journey from the court to the screen has made him a beacon of positivity and humor. Chapman was a standout basketball player at the University of Kentucky. He played twelve seasons in the NBA and served in the front offices of several NBA teams. With an illustrious basketball career spanning over a decade, Chapman transitioned seamlessly into his new role as a leading voice in the media, where he has amassed millions of followers.

Chapman has worked as a broadcaster for both professional and college basketball. He has hosted the CNN+ show Rex Chapman as well as the iHeart podcast Charges with Rex Chapman. He currently hosts the Smartless podcast Owned. His memoir, It’s Hard for Me to Live With Me, tells the story of his addiction and recovery in unflinching detail. Chapman’s speeches are a dynamic mix of personal anecdotes, motivational insights, and thoughtful reflections on overcoming adversity, making him an ideal speaker for audiences seeking inspiration and empowerment.

Public relations operative Phil Elwood has worked for some of the top – and bottom – PR firms in Washington. Elwood has worked across various industry sectors including tech, energy, health, and financial services. He has provided communications and media support for executive visibility initiatives, corporate reputation and recovery campaigns, corporate milestone announcements, and enterprise-level issues. Elwood is also an experienced media trainer who can work with clients on message development and help prepare for high-profile interviews, speaking events, and congressional testimonies. But as he moved up the ranks, he felt worse and worse about the sleaziness of it all—until he received a shocking wake-up call from the FBI. His experiences are detailed in his instant Amazon #1 New Release, All the Worst Humans: How I Made News for Dictators, Tycoons, and Politicians. Elwood’s disarmingly funny and entertaining voice reveals all the industry-secret tactics that led to his rise as a political PR pro.

Elwood is also an experienced media trainer who can work with clients on message development and help prepare for high-profile interviews, speaking events, and congressional testimonies. An experienced communications professional, Elwood leads corporate communications engagements, providing strategic counsel and media relations expertise for a range of clients spanning corporations, brands, governments, and organizations. Whether addressing corporate executives or emerging leaders, Elwood’s expertise and mastery of strategic communication make him an invaluable addition to any event.

All-time winningest alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin holds the most World Cup wins (93) of any male or female alpine skier in history. She is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist; five-time overall World Cup Champion; four-time world champion in slalom; and a seven-time winner of the World Cup discipline title in that event. She was also the youngest slalom champion in Olympic alpine skiing history. Shiffrin’s determination, grit, and competitive spirit motivate any audience.

Not only a dominant and global force on the mountain, Shiffrin was also named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for her dominance in her sport, her philanthropic work with organizations such as Protect Our Winters, and her authentic connection with her audience on the topics of mental health, family, and what it takes to be at the top of one’s craft. Shiffrin has been featured on ESPN, NBC Sports, FIS Alpine, and more.

Film producer, Founder of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC), and CEO of 1Community Scott Budnick is a pioneer of impact-first entertainment. Perhaps best known for producing the highest-grossing R-rated comedy trilogy in film history, The Hangover, as well as Old School and Due Date, Budnick became internationally renowned as the Executive Vice president of Todd Phillips’ Green Hat Films. Leveraging his platform for good, Scott has been a fierce advocate for social justice and a fairer judicial system by stepping continuously and gracefully between the entertainment industry and his community work. In 2003, he began volunteering with InsideOUT Writers (IOW), which brings creative writing into juvenile halls. In 2014, he founded ARC, whose mission is to reduce incarceration, improve the outcomes of formerly incarcerated individuals, and build healthier communities. Inspiring positive global change through a media co-financing model, 1Community created Just Mercy with Michael Jordan. Budnick’s work shows the ability of creatives and investors alike to make a positive impact on the world.

Budnick’s advocacy work has made a profound impact on social wellness. For his work with youth in the criminal justice system, Gov. Jerry Brown named Scott the 2012 California Governor’s Volunteer of the Year. He sits on the Board of State and Community Corrections and serves as a Board Member for President Barack Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance. Budnick has been invited to speak at the United Justice Coalition, the Impact Guild Global Forum on Democracy, and the nationwide Corrections Leaders Associations Conference, among many more.

In addition to being a mild-mannered physics professor, Dr. James Kakalios is an award-winning, internationally recognized expert on Superhero Science. Dr. Kakalios is the Taylor Distinguished Professor in the University of Minnesota’s School of Physics and Astronomy and the author of three popular science books: The Physics of Superheroes, The Amazing Story of Quantum Mechanics, and The Physics of Everyday Things. He has given hundreds of fun and engaging public presentations to audiences whose age ranges from eight to eighty. Using humor and wit, he explains real science using superhero comic books as examples – focusing on those cases where the heroes get their science right!

Dr. Kakalios’ science communication efforts have been recognized by national awards from the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Institute of Physics, and the American Association of Physics Teachers (previous winners of these awards include Neil deGrasse Tyson, Stephen Hawking, Carl Sagan, and more). He served as the science consultant for the Warner Bros. superhero film Watchmen (his short video, “The Science of Watchmen,” won a Regional Emmy award) and the Sony film The Amazing Spider-Man. His YouTube videos, discussing the physics in superhero movies, have garnered millions of views.

Dr. Kakalios has been invited to inspire audiences at schools, commencement ceremonies, and STEM-related private industry meetings as the keynote or after-banquet speaker, including the 92^nd Street Y, Library of Congress, ComicCon International, and more. His talks are not just entertaining, but also educational! He has been reading comic books longer than he has been studying physics.

Silicon Valley technology reporter Laurie Segall is the go-to source for businesses, investors, and decision-makers seeking to understand and leverage the power of technology. As the former senior tech correspondent for CNN and a reporter for 60 Minutes, Segall has engaged in conversations with the world's most influential tech leaders, including Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook, and OpenAI’s Sam Altman, as well as today’s most pressing questions on how AI will change our society. Her memoir, Special Characters: My Adventures with Tech’s Titans and Misfits, chronicles her experiences as a young reporter during the late 00s tech boom, providing a unique vantage point into the industry's most transformative moments and figures. She is the founder of Mostly Human, an entertainment company with a focus on society and artificial intelligence. Through her insightful questioning and deep understanding of the tech industry, Segall provides audiences with valuable perspectives on the forces shaping our digital future.

As a sought-after speaker, Segall brings her unparalleled expertise and strategic vision to the stage, inspiring audiences to think differently about the role of technology in their businesses and industries. Segall has received numerous awards for her work championing women and tech, including multiple Gracie awards. Segall has been featured in publications including Forbes, Business Insider, NY Mag's The Cut, CBS This Morning, and SF Chronicle. She is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences, including Web Summit, Center for Humane Technology, Founders Forum, SXSW, etc.

As the general manager of the Los Angeles Rams, Les Snead has risen to prominence for his strategic, aggressive moves in creating a strong core nucleus of talent and improved depth throughout the roster. Prior to joining the Rams, Snead spent 13 seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, serving as the club’s director of player personnel. With a career spanning over 20 years, he’s had a significant impact in the NFL and beyond. Snead provides actionable strategies for peak performance, innovation, and a winning mindset.

Les Snead's captivating talks transcend football, providing audiences with valuable lessons on teamwork, effective communication, and strategic planning that are universally applicable in business and leadership contexts. Snead also sits on the advisory board of GAMEBREAKER, which is a soft-shelled headgear powered by D3O Impact Technology. Snead has been requested to speak to organizations including The Jonathan Club, EconTalk, The Knowledge Project, and many more.

CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins is a journalist who covers the most important domestic and global news stories. On her primetime program, The Source with Kaitlan Collins, she has interviewed major global figures like Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ukranian President Volodymr Zelensky, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Trump Employee 5, Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, Bill Barr, Mitt Romney, Bernie Sanders, former Attorney General William Barr, GOP presidential candidates, and more. Previously, Collins was the co-anchor and chief correspondent of CNN This Morning. Prior to the launch of the morning show, she served as CNN's Chief White House Correspondent based in Washington, D.C. Collins is lauded as a balanced and incisive voice in political conversations.

In recognition of her journalistic work, Collins has been included in Mediaite's annual list of the “Most Influential People in News Media.” She was named to Crain's NewsPro's “12 to Watch in TV News,” as well as one of Forbes’ “30 Under 30: Media.” In 2023, she was named to Variety’s “New Power of New York” list and The Hill’s “Changemakers” list. Also in 2023, she received an Emmy Award for her part in CNN's coverage of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Collins provides perspectives on U.S. government, politics, and foreign affairs in addition to lending her on-air interviewing experience to hosting and moderation.

Visionary leader in digital security Brig.-Gen. (Res.) Asaf Kochan spearheads strategic initiatives leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of cybersecurity. Kochan is a distinguished former IDF Commander of Unit 8200 and held a senior position in the Israeli Prime Minister’s office. Beyond his prominent military career, Kochan’s visionary leadership extends into the private sector. In 2021, Asaf co-founded Sentra, a groundbreaking cybersecurity company headquartered in Israel. As the President of Sentra, he leverages his extensive experience to spearhead a transformative mission at the intersection of data-centric security and cloud-first innovation. As a seasoned practitioner of state-level cybersecurity, Kochan possesses an unparalleled grasp of the complex dynamics of contemporary digital environments and excels in providing innovative solutions.

Kochan’s contributions to both policy and technology have not only shaped the trajectory of cybersecurity but have also paved the way for cloud-first enterprises to thrive securely in an era in which big data reigns supreme. He has been invited by Calcalist, Cyber Week, CyberTechNYC, Maschmeyer Group, Hapag Lloyd AG, and more to share his perspective on cybersecurity and industry. Kochan breaks down complex security topics into digestible action items aimed at educating individuals or organizations on the nuances of cyber security today.

Unconventional brand leader and former CEO of Yum! Brands and Taco Bell Greg Creed is known for his skill in building transformative, courageous workplace cultures. His landmark campaigns lifted Taco Bell into a period of profound growth. He was awarded Restaurant Business’s Restaurant Leader of the Year and named an “Industry Titan” by the Women’s Foodservice Forum. Creed’s book, R.E.D. Marketing: The Three Ingredients of Leading Brands (R.E.D. stands for relevance, ease, and distinctiveness), distills his hard-earned wisdom into actionable practices for any brand. As one of the most respected voices in his industry, Creed’s perspective is a unique window into how culture, branding, and innovation can thrive in harmony. Qu Beyond’s podcast said, “Greg is relatable, down-to-earth, humble, self-deprecating, and brilliant."

Creed is currently Founder and CEO of the unconventional consultancy firm UnCo, helping companies with brand building, franchising, culture, and leadership. He serves on the boards of Whirlpool Corporation, Aramark Corporation, and Delta Airlines. He also currently serves as advisor to the CEO and Board of Directors of Thanx Inc and is Chairman of Quid. He has spoken at industry-leading venues such as the Global Restaurant Leadership Conference, National Restaurant Association, Restaurant Leadership Conference, KBP Foods, and more. Creed’s engagements provide a rich repository of cases, learnings, and laughs that leave audiences feeling energized and motivated.

Artist, founder, and mathematician Katy Bohinc is an award-winning data scientist and visionary polymath Fortune 500 marketer. Bohinc began her career as a data scientist for leading marketing agencies, operationalizing big data adoption. Her work garnered Assembly Media (now Assembly Global) Ad Age’s Agency of the Year award. She has published three books of poetry, along with two edited volumes. Bohinc served as Director of Tender Buttons Press (2013-2020). Her latest endeavor as founder & CEO of The Ratio – an AI startup which applies data science to the ancient traditions of astrology – marks her as a leading creative and scientific mind.

Bohinc is a captivating, visionary speaker, bringing her highly acclaimed poet's voice to a powerful and unique weaving of cultural, technological, and marketing insights. Her voice draws from her incredibly diverse background across data science and AI, literature and the arts, world history, and marketing. She has spoken on the intersections of arts, science, and futurism at MoMa Ps1, LACMA, Princeton University, Cambridge University, Ezra Pound’s Castle, and hundreds more. Bohinc's insightful ability to connect seemingly disparate intellectual disciplines into a case study of the human experience opens audiences' minds to new avenues of creativity. 

Iconic contemporary artist and sculptor Jeff Koons is one of the most prominent artists working today. Koons is known for challenging limitations while engaging viewers in a dialogue about the present moment and our historical past. For four decades, Koons has created works that explore themes of self-acceptance and transcendence. He is widely known for his bold paintings and sculptures, including Rabbit, Michael Jackson and Bubbles, Puppy, and Balloon Dog. Koons was the first artist to place a sculpture on the moon. The smooth, mirror-finished surfaces of his iconic stainless-steel sculptures reflect and affirm viewers and their environments. Since his first solo exhibition in 1980, Koons’s work has been shown in galleries, museums, and cultural institutions throughout the world.

Koons has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his cultural achievements. He has been a board member of The International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (ICMEC) since 2002 and co-founded the Koons Family International Law and Policy Institute with ICMEC for the purpose of combating global issues of child abduction and exploitation and to protect the world’s children.

Grammy Award-winning independent international superstar, education advocate, and entrepreneur Armando Christian Pérez – Pitbull – is a sought-after motivational speaker who invites disruption on a global scale. With billions of audio streams and videos views, plus hundreds of gold and platinum certifications, Pitbull has one of the most impressive careers in music history. Pitbull returned to the road in 2022 with the sold out North American Can’t Stop Us Now Tour along with his SiriusXM Globalization DJs packing amphitheaters and arenas coast-to-coast. From his danceable hit songs to his philanthropic actions, Armando shares a message of hope, hard work, and positivity that resonates worldwide.

Beyond music, Armando has leveraged his business acumen through a diverse portfolio of investments and partnerships. He is co-owner of the NASCAR racing team Trackhouse and has successfully developed other ventures including his own record label Mr. 305, Inc. and Voli 305 Vodka. Armando successfully established Sports Leadership Arts and Management (SLAM!) – tuition-free public charter schools across the country, recognized as one of the top school networks in the world. His next long-awaited Spanglish album, Trackhouse, releases Fall 2023 and Pitbull will join Enrique Iglesias and Ricky Martin on The Trilogy Tour. He has performed for millions worldwide, and even joined forces with the #1 life and business strategist, Tony Robbins, for a global motivational speaking tour. Sharing his uplifting journey to success, Pitbull emphasizes the power of learning from your mistakes – “must-takes,” as he calls them – and embracing a growth mindset to achieve your dreams.

Pitbull melds practical knowledge with personal experiences, ensuring that his talks are not just informative but also deeply resonant and inspirational. His multifaceted career and endeavors reflect a man who is not just an artist, but a leader, entrepreneur, educator, and philanthropist, making him an enriching speaker for a multitude of audiences and events.

Leadership and security expert Keechant Sewell is currently the Senior Vice President of Security and Guest Experience for the Mets at Citi Field. Previously, Sewell was a U.S. police officer and administrator who served as the 45th New York City Police Commissioner, where she oversaw a comprehensive strategy focused on the safety of New Yorkers and improving core features of the NYPD. During her tenure, Sewell launched the Innovation Steering Committee, which made nearly 250 recommendations for improved data analytics, community engagement, technology, officer safety, and more. She has also leveraged technology to better connect to the public and keep officers and the city safe, in addition to a myriad of crime-reduction strategies. Sewell has forged meaningful and lasting relationships between the Department and communities, businesses, elected leaders, and government agencies. Sewell’s innovative leadership has resulted in a more diverse workforce, measurable results, and community initiatives. Sewell brings a unique perspective to topics including innovative leadership, manager effectiveness, teambuilding, and public safety.

Sewell has the distinction of becoming the first sitting NYPD Commissioner to be named “PBA Person of the Year” and recognized with the first annual Torch Award from MovementForward Inc., among numerous other awards and accolades. She is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, where she was selected to give the commencement address. To learn more on transforming institutions through innovation both human and digital, turn to Sewell’s expertise spanning both the private and public sectors.

Former high school government and law teacher Sharon McMahon is on a mission to curate facts, fun, and inspiration by educating Americans on democracy, politics, and history. After years of serving as a high school government and law teacher, Sharon took her passion for education to Instagram with a mission to combat political misinformation with non-partisan facts. Sharon has earned a reputation as “America’s Government Teacher'' and quickly amassed over a million social media followers, affectionately known as “Governerds.” Sharon is also the host of the award-winning podcast, Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, where, each week, she provides entertaining yet factual accounts of America’s most fascinating moments and people.

In a time where flashy headlines and false information often take the spotlight, Sharon is a reliable source for truth and logic. She has shared her knowledge with CNN, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, Good Morning America, and has been featured in The Atlantic. She has received PRWeek’s Communicator of the Year Award as well as the noteworthy Jefferson Award.

In all that she does, Sharon encourages others to be world-changing humans. She has led her community in various philanthropic initiatives that have raised more than $7M for teachers, domestic violence survivors, terminally ill children, medical debt forgiveness programs, Ukrainian refugees, and more.

Global Fashion Editor, Fashion Director, and Stylist Gabriella Karefa-Johnson is known for her stylistic vision and ability to tell stories through an inclusive gaze. A New York-based stylist and editor of Caribbean and West African descent, Karefa-Johnson has a keen eye for up-and-coming designers and a narrative-led approached aimed at diversifying representation in fashion. She worked as an associate fashion editor under fashion director Tonne Goodman at Vogue, and later became Vogue’s Global Contributing Fashion Editor at Large. Karefa-Johnson made history as the first Black woman to style a Vogue cover and has styled more than a dozen international covers of Vogue featuring Serena Williams, Paloma Elsesser, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Amanda Gorman, among many others.

Gabriella is known for her fierce propagation of inclusion in the industry, breaking barriers and disrupting the status quo to tell a more expansive story about the world – one that is full of possibilities. In 2017, she was named Fashion Director of biannual fine art and high fashion publication GARAGE Magazine, where she harnessed her expertise in contemporary American Art, and has served as a guest judge for Netflix’s Next in Fashion. Karefa-Johnson has shared her vision for a more inclusive fashion landscape with groups including Fashion Scholarship Fund, LVMH Prize, Woolmark Prize, Vogue Forces of Fashion, and Barnard’s Class of 2023 Commencement.

De Kai is a pioneering AI scientist who is widely regarded as “the Statesman of AI.” A founder of the contemporary AI field as known today, three decades ago De Kai invented and built the world’s first global-scale online language translator. De Kai continues to push boundaries in AI research, alongside speaking to philosophical questions about the fears and possibilities of humanity's new technology and how we can be empowered to shape our future. De Kai is Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at HKUST and Distinguished Research Scholar at Berkeley’s International Computer Science Institute. His cross-disciplinary works relating AI, cognition, language, music, creativity, media arts, ethics and society centers on enabling cultures to relate, and stems from a liberal arts perspective emphasizing creativity in both technical and humanistic dimensions.

De Kai’s groundbreaking projects have spurred the paradigm shift toward today’s state-of-the-art statistical natural language processing technologies. He has done research at Berkeley, UCSD, University of Toronto, Bell Laboratories, Columbia University, TU Munich, and Toronto. He founded HKUST's internationally funded Human Language Technology Center which launched the world's first global-scale online language translator over twenty years ago.

De Kai is among only 17 scientists worldwide named by the Association for Computational Linguistics as a Founding ACL Fellow and has been named one of the 100 most influential figures of Hong Kong. He serves on the board of AI policy think tank TFS (The Future Society), which is heavily involved in drafting the European Union’s forthcoming AI Act. In 2018, Google named De Kai as one of eight inaugural members of its AI Ethics council, ATEAC (Advanced Technology External Advisory Council). Over the past decade, De Kai has given hundreds of talks worldwide on AI ethics, society, and safety.

Former NBCUniversal executive Imani Ellis is the CEO and Founder of CultureCon and The Creative Collective, a community dedicated to facilitating brave spaces for Black and Brown creatives. Founded in Ellis’s one-bedroom apartment, The Creative Collective has grown into the largest community devoted to creatives of color. In addition to community events, The Creative Collective provides countless resources and workshops. The Creative Collective’s marquee event, CultureCon, is the first-of-its-kind ideas conference that caters to all aspects of creative and young professional life. Past CultureCon speakers have included Tracee Ellis Ross, Will Smith, Regina King, John Legend, Spike Lee, Lena Waithe, and more.  As a leader in talent development in media and creative industries, Ellis’s perspectives are crucial for organizations seeking a creative spark.

Ellis is regularly invited to speak at high-profile events and conferences, including Amazon, Jordan Brand, Pinterest, Advertising Week, Meta, the Women of Power Summit, Columbia Business School, and many more. Named a "Breakthrough Creative" by Ebony, a “Visionary” by Forbes, “One to Watch” by Black Enterprise, and a “Diversity Champion by AdWeek, Ellis shares invaluable insights on cultural competency and innovation.

One of the biggest names in golf instruction, Sean Foley has coached three professional players to the number one ranking in the sport. Foley’s clients include three-time PGA TOUR winner Cameron Champ, Lydia Ko, and arguably the greatest player of all time Tiger Woods. Foley’s players have won a total of 56 professional events spanning many worldwide professional golf tours. His core teaching philosophy is driven by a passion to help golfers evolve into the best players and people they can be. Sean shares these takeaways for peak performance and success with audiences including MetLife, Grant Thornton, Home Depot, Zendesk, MIT Sloan Analytics, Dell, and more.

Sean has been the host of some of the most widely viewed content on NBC’s GolfPass. Having written countless instruction articles, Sean was the youngest coach ever to be included on the masthead at Golf Digest. He has been ranked in the top five greatest coaches for over a decade in Golf Digest’s annual rankings and was ranked the best instructor by PGA TOUR players twice. Sean has also been featured on the front cover of Golf Digest twice. Foley has coached countless celebrities, titans of industry, and world leaders from around the globe.

Founder, author, and soul-centered wellness innovator Dr. Elisa Hallerman, PhD, JD is the CEO of the first-ever Recovery Management Agency (RMA). After graduating from New York Law School and passing the bar, Elisa entered the entertainment business. Over the next decade she went from the talent agency mailroom to becoming partner and head of the talent department at United Talent Agency, later becoming a partner at William Morris Endeavor. Sober from drugs and alcohol for years, Elisa's interest in the recovery field drew her to take classes in drug and alcohol counseling at the University of California, Los Angeles. She uses her knowledge of depth psychology and her personal experience as a recovering addict to help audiences reconnect with soul, find meaning, and live with purpose.

Elisa is the Founder of Recovery Management Agency – the world’s first agency devoted to helping addicts heal their addictions by reawakening their souls. She holds a doctorate in Depth Psychology and Somatic Studies from Pacifica Graduate Institute, with a focus on neuroscience and trauma. She is the author of Soulbriety: A Plan to Heal Your Trauma, Overcome Addiction, and Reconnect with Your Soul, which was released to critical and popular acclaim. Elisa is a member of The Institute for Functional Medicine and was a visiting professor at Chapman University for film and media arts. Leveraging her expertise in crisis management, resilience, and personal transformation, Elisa shares her message of ‘Soulbriety’ with audiences looking to lead a meaningful and purposeful life.

"In this vividly written, page-turner of a memoir, Dr. Elisa Hallerman depicts how neither drugs nor glittering Hollywood glamour could satisfy her spirit’s longing for true freedom. With unsparing honesty, she chronicles her own soul’s journey home to itself from the depths of trauma and addiction, now enabling her to guide many others on their own path to liberation." ― Gabor Maté MD, author of The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness and Healing in a Toxic Culture

“Dr. Hallerman’s book is unflinching raw storytelling and experience, strength and hope honed by her deep seeing and learning. What I have learned and been helped by Dr. Elisa Hallerman to learn, is that in the end, it's about our Soul... Hallerman is a crucial voice for these unprecedented times,” Actor and Author, Jamie Lee Curtis 

Three years ago, Raymond Braun had never run more than three miles and was struggling with debilitating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. In February 2023, Raymond set two World Records by completing 7 Olympic Distance triathlons on all 7 continents in 7 consecutive days. This endeavor was part of his mental health recovery program and aimed to destigmatize conversations about therapy and grief, while honoring his late friend, Maya Amoils, a mental health advocate.

As an award-winning multimedia journalist, producer, and advocate, Raymond now facilitates open conversations on the connection between mental and physical health through documentary storytelling, public speaking, endurance events, and peer-to-peer counseling. He has spoken at prestigious events ranging from the White House to the Forbes CMO Summit, and been featured in numerous media outlets including the New York Times, CNN, and many more.

Raymond struggled with OCD-related challenges throughout his life, masking them behind professional achievements and accolades. He graduated as valedictorian for both his B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stanford University. He went on to hold leadership positions at YouTube and Bumble, founded a creative consultancy with prestigious clients like CHANEL and Google, and achieved recognition as a GLAAD Award-winning documentary host.

Raymond ultimately found solace and transformation through endurance sports and exposure therapy. He now focuses on mental health awareness, inclusivity in fitness, and sharing inspiring stories of mental and physical transformation to empower others. Raymond's ultimate mission is to prove that individuals possess far greater potential than their self-limiting thoughts, stereotypes, and societal pressures suggest.

Emmy-nominated Hot Ones host Sean Evans has two superpowers: interviewing celebrities and eating extremely spicy foods. Against the odds, he's managed to combine the two into the massively popular YouTube show Hot Ones on First We Feast. Each week, Evans shares a plate of progressively spicier chicken wings with his celebrity guests, eliciting some of the most hilarious and honest answers you've ever seen from stars like Kevin Hart, Gordon Ramsay, and Jennifer Lawrence. Hot Ones has spawned a worldwide base of 8M+ YouTube fans and has racked up almost 60M views.

Despite his extreme tactics, Hot Ones guests respect Evans' deeply researched questions and commitment to his craft. The Chicago native grew up studying heroes like David Letterman and Howard Stern – and gaining an appreciation for extra-hot salsa from his dad – before cutting his teeth as a Complex News host. His interviews with the likes of Allen Iverson and Manny Pacquiao made him a favorite on the sports-media circuit, and his willingness to try just about anything – including a day of The Rock's diet and fitness regimen – helped propel his online profile. Evans has been nominated for and won several Webby Awards and was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Talk Show host in 2021.

Beloved comedian and actor Kevin James began his career as a stand-up on the Long Island comedy scene. After being discovered at the 1996 Montreal Comedy Festival, he signed a network development deal to create his own sitcom, The King of Queens. The King of Queens ran for nine seasons on CBS with James starring and executive producing, garnering an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. James made his feature film debut in Columbia Pictures’ Hitch starring opposite Will Smith, and starred alongside Adam Sandler in Pixels, Grown Ups I & II, and I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry. James has since produced, co-written, and starred in hit comedies Paul Blart: Mall Cop I & II, Zookeeper, and Here Comes the Boom. He starred in and produced Netflix’s Home Team as well as the HBO Sports Special Making the Cut: The Road to Pebble Beach; a documentary about the Pebble Beach Pro Am Golf Tournament nominated for a Sports Emmy.

James’ comedy specials, Sweat the Small Stuff, Never Don’t Give Up, and Irregardless, continue to delight fans globally. Sweat the Small Stuff landed James on Comedy Central’s list of the “100 Greatest Standup Comedians.” He has been honored with nominations for three Teen Choice Award nominations, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a People’s Choice Award.