NEW SPEAKERS: Mental Health | MORE NEW SPEAKERS > > |
Daniel Amen
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Dr. Daniel Amen is a pioneer in optimizing mental health for longevity and peak performance. As a physician, adult and child psychiatrist, and founder of Amen Clinics—with 11 locations across the U.S.—he has dedicated his career to helping people achieve sharper cognition, enhanced mental resilience, and overall vitality. Amen Clinics houses the world’s largest database of brain scans for psychiatry, with more than 260,000 SPECT scans from patients in 155 countries, providing unparalleled insights into brain function and aging.
Dr. Amen is also the founder of BrainMD, a rapidly growing, science-backed nutraceutical company focused on cognitive enhancement and long-term wellness, and Amen University, which has trained thousands of medical and mental health professionals in his brain optimization methods.
Dr. Amen has built a global following, using cutting-edge science to help high performers—including Olympic and professional athletes, top executives, and entertainers—sustain peak cognitive and physical performance. His podcast, Change Your Brain Every Day, is a top-rated Health Show in the US with over 16M streams. Additionally, he has produced 18 national public television specials on brain health. Dr. Amen is the most-followed expert in mental health. His online content has been viewed over a billion times.
A 12-time New York Times bestselling author, Dr. Amen has written groundbreaking books, including Change Your Brain, Change Your Life, You, Happier, and The Brain Warrior’s Way, offering actionable strategies to enhance focus, memory, energy, and longevity. His mission is clear: to empower people to take charge of their brain health, extend their lifespan, and live with purpose and vitality.
Katherine Martinko
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Writer, editor, and speaker Katherine Martinko strives to empower parents, teens, and other adults to limit screen time using the philosophy of “digital minimalism.” She is the author of Childhood Unplugged: Practical Advice to Get Kids Off Screens and Find Balance (2023) and creator of a fast-growing Substack newsletter called The Analog Family. Her approach is not anti-tech but strives to put digital media in its rightful place—as a tool, not a toy. Martinko offers smart guidance on tough topics like when to give a kid a smartphone, how to handle social media, how to say no and deal with a teen’s FOMO, how to get comfortable with giving kids more independent play, and why we all have a responsibility to help solve this collection action problem.
A former senior editor at Dotdash Meredith, Martinko is a speaker participating in Jonathan Haidt's Anxious Generation campaign. She is a regular contributor to the Globe and Mail, Canada’s largest newspaper, and appears regularly on national radio, TV, talk shows, and podcasts, including CBC, The National, and Global TV. Her editorial experience spans notable brands such as Martha Stewart, Allrecipes, Angi, Discovery, Treehugger, Huffington Post, Motherly, and The Toronto Star.
Martinko is well-equipped to speak on the vital issues of an anxious generation and the need for childhood unplugged. Her knowledge, practical advice, and genuine passion for improving mental well-being make her a powerful voice for those seeking to reclaim balance in the digital age.
Dr. Jonathan Leary
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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.
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex
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Prince Harry is a humanitarian, mental health advocate, environmentalist, and military combat veteran. His work is dedicated to creating positive and lasting change for communities and the planet, particularly in advancing conversations around resilience and healing.
Since 2021, he has served as Chief Impact Officer at BetterUp, the largest mental health and coaching startup in the world, and along with his wife, has become an investor in Ethic, a sustainable investing platform. In that same year, he was asked to join a panel of experts at the Aspen Institute's Commission for Information Disorder. In 2023, he was named a New York Times best-selling author for his memoir, Spare, which became the fastest-selling non-fiction book of all time on its release date. Prince Harry is a respected voice on global issues, and in recent years has delivered impactful keynote addresses at the United Nations General Assembly and the Clinton Global Initiative.
Alongside his wife, Meghan, he co-founded The Archewell Foundation whose mission is: ‘show up, do good,’ reflecting the ways in which they work to support communities, offline and online, in ways big and small. The Archewell Foundation focuses on social impact initiatives, including digital safety and education, all under the umbrella of protecting our collective mental health.
Prince Harry is also the founder of the Invictus Games, an international adaptive sporting event that celebrates wounded service members and veterans from 25 nations, and Travalyst, a global coalition of the biggest travel and technology brands focused on promoting sustainable travel practices to protect both people and places. He serves on the Board of African Parks, supporting critical wildlife conservation and community-led initiatives across Africa. His leadership in both environment and mental health advocacy has earned him recognition from TIME Magazine’s "100 Most Influential People" alongside his wife in 2018, 2021, and for his climate work in 2024.
Prince Harry resides in California with his wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and their two children, Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex. Together, they remain dedicated to building a more compassionate, equitable world for future generations.
Dr. Jill Biden
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When a handsome young senator showed up at her door in the seventies, Jill Biden never imagined that it would be the start of a love story that would one day take her to the White House—twice. She had no idea how quickly she would have to learn how to balance life as a political spouse, a lifelong educator, and a mother, then a grandmother, and now a great-grandmother.
Jill Biden, Ed.D, served as First Lady of the United States from 2021-2025. She also served as Second Lady of the United States from 2009-2017. She worked as a full-time community college professor as Second and First Lady, making her the first presidential spouse to maintain a career while living in the White House.
She was a leading messenger for the Biden-Harris Administration’s most urgent priority of navigating out of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic: urging communities to get vaccinated, safely reopening schools, and supporting President Biden’s agenda to rebuild a shuttered economy.
As First Lady, Dr. Biden championed the causes that have defined her public life: supporting military families like her own; advocating for workforce development programs, community colleges, and the teaching profession; ending cancer as we know it through the Biden Cancer Moonshot; and galvanizing overdue investments and structural changes to women’s health research. She traveled to more than 40 states, 200 towns and cities, and 19 countries. By adding interactive technology and educational content to the White House public tour route, Dr. Biden reimagined the visitor experience and made the People’s House open and accessible to more Americans than ever before.
A proud and self-described Philly girl, Dr. Biden published her New York Times Bestselling memoir, Where the Light Enters: Building a Family, Discovering Myself, in 2019, and has published three children’s books, most recently in 2024, WILLOW the White House Cat.
Mika Brzezinski
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The co-host of MSNBC’s Morning Joe, founder of Know Your Value, and New York Times bestselling author Mika Brzezinski is a celebrated, go-to voice on current events, world affairs, and women's empowerment. A former anchor of CBS Evening News Weekend Edition and CBS News correspondent who frequently contributed to CBS Sunday Morning and 60 Minutes, Brzezinski has covered some of the most pivotal moments of the 21st century, from the September 11 attacks to multiple presidential elections. Brzezinski is also the author of seven bestselling books that serve as essential and inspiring guidebooks for empowering women, offering encouragement and practical advice on claiming and communicating their worth. As a speaker, Brzezinski brings a powerhouse combination of journalistic integrity, leadership insights, and empowering advocacy to your event.
Brzezinski offers empowering insights into women's equality and work-life balance as well as a dynamic perspective on the current political and media landscape, which she has shared with hosts including Harvard University, the Mortgage Bankers Association, and the Lake Nona Institute.
Ashley Judd
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Actor, activist, and New York Times bestselling author Ashley Judd is heralded for her unforgettable performances and tireless advocacy work. From starring roles in box office hits and award-winning independent films, Judd’s films tell very personal stories that tap into larger issues, and she brings this gift for storytelling to all her speaking engagements. A voice for the often voiceless, she shines an illuminating light on the vulnerable and the at-risk. Judd has traveled the world with her international public health work, from maternal health to child survival, human rights to disease prevention and treatment. She has been working with NGO’s, grass roots organizations, governments, and supranational bodies since 2004, and detailed her experience in her New York Times bestselling book, All That Is Bitter and Sweet. For her sought-after speaking engagements, Judd regularly receives glowing praise such as: “Ashley Judd walked onto the Ford Hall Forum stage and hit it straight out of the park from her first word to her last. She is not only incredibly intelligent and a top-notch presenter, but also thoroughly knowledgeable and committed... It was clear that the audience found Judd completely captivating and a true inspiration.” (Ford Hall)
Judd was named one TIME’s “Persons of the Year” for her role as a silence-breaker and change-maker of the #MeToo movement, shifting the culture and conversation around sexual abuse and harassment. She is a sought after public speaker and frequent OpEd author on topics as diverse as conflict mineral mining and child marriage. She serves as the Global Goodwill Ambassador for UNFPA, the Global Ambassador for Population Services International, and is Chairperson of the Women’s Media Center Speech Project: Curbing Abuse, Expanding Freedom. She has received the Muhammad Ali Kentucky Humanitarian Award and her alma mater, the University of Kentucky, established the Ashley T. Judd Distinguished Gradate Fellowship in the Office for Policy Studies on Violence Against Women. Judd illuminates topics of women’s rights, mental health, the environment, and more with her indelible storytelling and global experience, and hosts rave about her impact: "Ms. Judd was the perfect choice for the closing keynote. She had obviously done her homework on the ATHENA leadership principles because she connected her remarks directly to them. She was intelligent, thought provoking, humorous, sincere, warm and extremely engaging. Conference attendees raved about her and she and her staff were delightful to work with. I would highly recommend her as a speaker." (Güd Marketing | Marketing That Matters)
Please visit ashleyjudd.com to learn more about Judd's latest projects and advocacy work.
Glennon Doyle
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A Phenomenon of Courage, Connection, & Change
Glennon Doyle isn’t just a speaker; she’s a phenomenon. With electrifying authenticity and unshakable honesty, she transcends traditional labels to become a voice of hope, empowerment, and transformation for millions. Doyle doesn’t merely tell people they can “do hard things”—she shows them how, using raw vulnerability, sharp wit, and deeply resonant stories that touch audiences across all walks of life. Her meteoric rise to global influence is no accident—it’s a testament to the power of her message and her extraordinary ability to connect on a profoundly personal level.
Doyle’s influence stems from her unique courage, relatability, and multi-platform presence. Her personal journey is a testament to resilience and authenticity, inspiring millions to live unapologetically. Her bestselling book UNTAMED, which sold over 2M copies, sparked a global movement, encouraging readers to break free from societal expectations and embrace their truest selves. Glennon doesn’t just speak about bravery—she lives it, becoming a living example of what it means to lead with heart and truth. Her most recent book, WE CAN DO HARD THINGS: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions, created with Abby Wambach, Amanda Doyle and Treat Media, is being hailed as “the guidebook for being alive.”
Her themes of authenticity, vulnerability, mental health, relationships, and social justice are not only timely but vital in today’s complex world. Glennon captures the spirit of the moment with unmatched clarity, offering solace, guidance, and inspiration in times of uncertainty. Her words are universal yet deeply personal, making her a beacon of hope for those navigating personal challenges, seeking social change, or striving for clarity amidst life’s noise.
Beyond the stage, Glennon’s impact extends through her bestselling books (UNTAMED, LOVE WARRIOR, and CARRY ON, WARRIOR) and her acclaimed podcast, WE CAN DO HARD THINGS. She is one of the 40 Most Powerful People in Podcasting. Her massive social media following and ability to trend with every new release have solidified her status as one of the most influential voices of our time. Whether making audiences laugh, cry, or feel seen, Glennon Doyle’s transformative impact is undeniable.
Glennon is more than a speaker—she’s a global movement. She’s the trusted friend, fearless leader, and relentless advocate for truth the world needs. Whether inspiring a room of 50, reaching thousands at a conference, or connecting with millions through her books and podcasts, Glennon leaves her audiences braver, stronger, and ready to embrace their own “hard things.” It’s no wonder she’s one of the most sought-after voices in the world today.
Abby Wambach
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Legend, Leader, & Changemaker
Named one of TIME Magazine's "100 Most Influential People in the World," Abby Wambach has built her legacy as a transformational leader. With two Olympic gold medals, a World Cup victory, and a record-breaking career as one of soccer’s greatest goal scorers, Abby’s impact on the field and the stage are undeniable. Momentive Inc. said "She was OUTSTANDING! The team felt so inspired and energized after her conversation. I think we could have listened to her for 5 hours."
Her legacy reaches far beyond the pitch; Abby is one of the 40 most powerful people in podcasting, putting the “can do” in We Can Do Hard Things. This guide to life empowers audiences to turn challenges into opportunities for growth, rooted in Abby’s personal experience as an elite global athlete. In her bestselling books, Forward and Wolfpack, Abby shares powerful lessons on leadership, authenticity, and creating lasting change. A masterclass in resilience and reinvention, Abby redefines leadership as empowering others, building trust, and amplifying every voice.
Abby Wambach proves that doing hard things isn’t just about overcoming challenges—it’s about breaking barriers, rewriting the script, and inspiring others to believe in their strength. Whether uniting teams or challenging injustice, Abby brings the same passion and grit that made her a legend into every arena she enters. Her journey sparks change and empowers everyone she touches. Beloved by hosts across industries, Dell Technologies said, "Abby was fantastic" and LeadingAge raved, “Best keynote ever.”
Margaret Trudeau
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Margaret Trudeau is celebrated for her role as a respected mental-health issues advocate and proponent of living a vibrant, joyful life especially as we age. From becoming the Canadian prime minister’s wife at a young age, to the loss of both her son and her former husband, to living with bi-polar disorder, Margaret shares her personal stories to remind others of the importance of nurturing the body, mind, and spirit.
Lindsey Vonn
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Olympic gold medalist and one of the most successful skiers of all time Lindsey Vonn also a New York Times bestselling author, sports broadcaster, and mental health advocate. Following a stellar career as an alpine skier, Vonn pivoted to lend her knowledge of the sport to NBC’s coverage of the Beijing Olympics, appearing on the Today Show, in the studio, and as an alpine analyst sharing her many insights. She is the New York Times bestselling author of several books, including Strong is the New Beautiful and her memoir, Rise: My Story. An elite athlete, Vonn is a clear example of how leadership and determination lead to winning results. She is the Founder of the Lindsey Vonn Foundation, an organization established to empower young girls, and launched "Lindsey Vonn's Virtual Career Day" which brings together young scholarship winners from the Lindsey Vonn Foundation with an expert in their intended field. Vonn speaks authentically about her career and her challenges, sharing insights and takeaways about resilience, risk-taking, and overcoming adversity that empower audiences of all kinds.
Gabrielle Bernstein
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For more than eighteen years, Gabby Bernstein has been transforming lives—including her own. The #1 New York Times bestselling author has penned ten books, including Self Help, The Universe Has Your Back, Super Attractor, and Happy Days. Gabby was featured on Oprah’s SuperSoul Sunday as a “new thought leader.” The New York Times identified Gabby as “a role model for a new generation of spiritual seekers.” She is a regular guest on Good Morning America, Today, and Live with Kelly and Mark, among other leading media outlets. In 2023 she launched the innovative gabby coaching app to democratize spiritual self-help and be your coach—anytime, anywhere. In her weekly podcast, Dear Gabby, she offers up real-time coaching, straight talk and conversations about personal growth and spirituality.
From her start hosting intimate conversations with twenty people in her New York City apartment, Gabby has grown to speaking to tens of thousands in sold-out venues throughout the world. Through her presentations and generous Q&A sessions, Bernstein makes a major impact on individuals and organizations alike, and she has been sought-after by groups such as Google, the AOL Build Series, TED Talks, Through her presentations and generous Q&A sessions, Bernstein makes a major impact on individuals and organizations alike, and she has been sought-after by groups such as Google, the AOL Build Series, TED Talks, Oprah's Super Soul Sessions, and many more., and many more. Gabby is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, offering a profound message of peace that resonates with audiences of all kinds.
For more, visit gabbybernstein.com.
Deshauna Barber
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Deshauna Barber is a dynamic international motivational speaker, Army veteran, former Miss USA and founder of the Women Veterans For Change. Renowned for her impactful and inspiring approach, Barber recently partnered with E.L.F. BEAUTY and Emerald Audio Network as the host of their new limited podcast series, Valor, to highlight the extraordinary stories of courageous servicewomen throughout history, celebrating their bravery and resilience.
Leveraging her unique experiences as an Army officer, STEM graduate, and advocate, Deshauna exemplifies the power of perseverance and resilience. Her journey from a decorated military career to becoming a top- rated speaker, sought after by Fortune 500 companies, underscores her remarkable ability to inspire and motivate. In 2019, Deshauna made history as the youngest President and CEO of the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), a leading nonprofit dedicated to advocating for servicewomen and female veterans. During her tenure, she championed women’s rights and resources on Capitol Hill, making significant strides in support of our nation’s service members. She has also launched a speaker mentorship course called Thrive, a cohort-based training program with 18 aspiring students pursuing careers as motivational speakers. Deshauna holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Virginia State University, a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems and Services from the University of Maryland University College, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certification from Cornell University. Crowned Miss USA in 2016, Deshauna became the first soldier to win the title. She used her platform to advocate for increased support for soldiers with Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
With over 11 years of military service, she continues to emphasize the importance of mental health for service members and veterans. A survivor of childhood sexual abuse, Deshauna channels her experiences into empowering others, dedicating her life to inspiring and uplifting those around her. As a motivational speaker and advocate, her global mission is to encourage, inspire, and strengthen individuals, embodying her commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Catherine Price
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Award-winning science journalist, speaker, and author Catherine Price is a leading voice in the national conversation about digital devices and how to create healthy relationships with technology. Her books include her bestsellers, How to Break Up With Your Phone and The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again, and Catherine and her work have been featured in outlets including, The Best American Science Writing, NPR, The New York Times, Good Morning America, The Wall Street Journal, Popular Science, The Los Angeles Times, and TIME Magazine, among many others. She is also a former middle school teacher, the parent of a young child, and a core member of the team behind Jonathan Haidt's #1 NYT-bestselling book, The Anxious Generation. She writes the popular Substack newsletter, "How to Feel Alive," and her TED talk on fun has been viewed more than 5M times.
In all of her work, Catherine's ultimate goal is to help people of all ages scroll less, live more, and have fun.
Price is comfortable and experienced providing keynotes, participating in chats and panels, and leading interactive workshops—all both in-person and virtually. Having spoken in front of audiences and clients including TED, The Aspen Ideas Festival, Leadercast, SXSW, Intel, Cigna, the NSA, Hyatt, T. Rowe Price, Warburg Pincus, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Rancho La Puerta, Endeavor, Penguin Random House, Google, Livongo Health, The Marbles Children’s Museum, Miraval, Yale University, RSA, Oprah Winfrey, and more, Price is an in-demand speaker, consultant, and workshop leader who offers lively and uniquely tailored programs full of what she calls “science-backed self-help” that are compelling and actionable for audiences of all kinds.
"Catherine is a dynamic and engaging speaker who is able to connect with and inspire audience members from a broad range of backgrounds. She weaves together science, personal anecdotes, practical advice, and humor in a way that makes the subject matter approachable and actionable. Her virtual sessions have been among the best attended and most popular talks in our series, and people are still approaching me months later to thank me for bringing her to speak at our institution.” —Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Brandon Marshall
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Legendary NFL wide receiver, entrepreneur, Emmy-nominated TV personality, and philanthropist Brandon Marshall is a dedicated mental health advocate who continues to lead conversations promoting awareness, ending stigma, and sharing inspiration. After 12 years shattering records and collecting countless awards and accolades, Marshall is now a two-time Emmy-nominated sportscaster with Showtime’s Inside the NFL and FS1’s First Things First. Amassing over 30M views and 500K YouTube subscribers, he is also the creator and host of I AM ATHLETE podcast, moderating authentic conversations that make an undeniable impact. After winning his own battle with mental illness, Marshall has become the face of mental health awareness, sharing his personal experiences and struggles, and offering a message of resilience and hope that enables audiences of all kinds to unleash their full potential.
As the Founder and CEO of House of Athlete, a lifestyle wellness brand, Marshall leverages his years as a peak athlete and champion for mental fitness to support athletes at every level. As Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of PROJECT 375, a non-profit dedicated to unlocking human potential through conversation, education, and inspiration, Marshall embodies his commitment to the mental health community. He has appeared on The View, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and more, and has been featured in The New York Times, People, Forbes, and many others. Marshall has participated in hundreds of speaking engagements, speaking to Fortune500 organizations, the Forbes Healthcare Summit, The Kennedy Forum, before the U.S. Senate, the Vatican, to NFL Owners & Coaches, and school kids, among others. In addition to championing conversations in the mental health space, Marshall is an in-demand speaker for his insights on teamwork, cultivating resilience, and developing values-based leadership within organizations and as individuals.
Victor Cruz
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Victor Cruz is a Super Bowl champion. As an undrafted free agent, Cruz impressively played his way onto the Giants’ 53-man regular season roster. He finished his first season with a single-season franchise record for receiving yards and was named second-team All-Pro by the Associated Press.
Cruz co-hosts E!’s morning news show, Pop of the Morning, a mix of celebrity news, interviews and discussions around pop culture moments.
An active philanthropist, Cruz established the Victor Cruz Foundation to promote positive change in the lives of youth by providing innovative educational programs that equip students with skill sets to prepare them for a successful future. The foundation is especially committed to continued research and partnerships with STEM programs. In partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of America, his foundation launched and implemented the “Science in Sports” program. This curriculum provides students with a hands approach to STEM curriculum while simultaneously teaching them the science behind football as it relates to the NFL.
In engaging conversations, Cruz discusses how motivation and perseverance drove his career; the impact and goals of his foundation; the importance of exposing youth to STEM programs; and more.
Jim Yong Kim
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12th President of the World Bank Group Jim Yong Kim is a global visionary devoted to improving the lives of people in developing countries and championing the cause of global health. Renowned for his pioneering approaches to tackling global health issues, education, and economic development at the World Bank, Kim re-defined the institution's work amplifying the voices of the world's poor, vowing to end extreme poverty by 2030.
Before his time at the World Bank, Kim served as President of Dartmouth College – becoming the first Asian-American president of an Ivy League institution – and as Executive Director and co-founder of the internationally renowned non-profit medical organization Partners In Health (PIH). At PIH, Kim helped launch a movement that changed global health forever, tackling some of the world's most difficult health problems, and proving experts wrong in what medical treatments and results are possible in communities of extreme poverty. Kim's work at PIH has now been replicated in 40+ countries and is chronicled in the award-winning documentary Bending the Arc and bestselling book Mountains Beyond Mountains. Kim also served as Chief of the Department of Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School and director of the World Health Organization's HIV/AIDS department. At WHO Kim led the groundbreaking "3 by 5" initiative, the first-ever global goal for AIDS treatment.
Sought-out to speak everywhere from TED to the World Economic Forum, Kim's ideas and efforts have changed the way the world thinks about global development. A physician and anthropologist, he is the recipient of a MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship and has been recognized as one of America's "25 Best Leaders" by U.S. News & World Report, named to TIME's "100 Most Influential People in the World," and listed to Forbes' "World's Most Powerful People." Kim inspires people to change the world and provides eye-opening and empowering insights on just how we can do it.
Lilly Singh
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Lilly Singh is an Emmy-winning entertainer, actress, producer, New York Times best-selling author, gender equality advocate, and President of Unicorn Island. A leading force in pop culture, she has pivoted her successful online career to the big and small screens. Up next, Lilly’s first feature film, DOIN’ IT, will premiere at the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival. She co-wrote, produced, and stars as the lead in the comedy. During the Festival, Lilly will also receive the “Comedy Crossover” Award at Variety’s Power of Comedy honors. She is also partnering with AAVRANI, an Ayurvedic science-backed beauty brand, to launch the hair care collection she helped create alongside founder Rooshy Roy, inspired by Indian cultural rituals.
Most recently, Lilly starred in the Emmy-winning Disney+ comedy series The Muppets Mayhem, DreamWorks Animation action-comedy THE BAD GUYS, and voiced the lead in her animated series, The Mindful Adventures of Unicorn Island, now available on YouTube. She currently hosts CTV’s Battle of the Generations, a primetime quiz show that she also executive produces, and is a judge on Canada’s Got Talent. She is the author of two international chart-topping books, How to Be a Bawse: A Guide to ConqueringLife and Be a Triangle: How I Went from Being Lost to Getting My Life Into Shape. With every innovative project, business endeavor, and keynote, Lilly is redefining the rules – breaking norms that led to exclusion – and leading us toward a richer and more inclusive future.
Through her Unicorn Island Productions company, its non-profit arm Unicorn Island Fund, and her Lilly’s Library book club, Lilly continues to blaze new paths in storytelling, spotlighting underrepresented voices and challenging social norms to transform the way the world sees, values and invests in girls and women. In her live events, Lilly offers empowering insights about building her career, creating equity, leading with authenticity, and more, and always with her signature blend of humor, vulnerability, and keen observation.
Dr. Lisa Damour
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Three-time New York Times bestselling author, podcaster, and thought leader Dr. Lisa Damour is known for her critically acclaimed books Untangled, Under Pressure, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers, which have been translated into twenty-three languages. She co-hosts the Ask Lisa podcast, works in collaboration with UNICEF, and is recognized as a thought leader by the American Psychological Association. Dr. Damour is a regular contributor to The New York Times and CBS News and the creator of Untangling 10to20, a digital library of premium content to support teens and those who care for them. Dr. Damour’s compassionate and actionable talks on adult mental health, managing anxiety and chronic stress, cultivating well-being, family life, and more have positively impacted audiences worldwide.
Dr. Damour serves as a Senior Advisor to the Schubert Center for Child Studies at Case Western Reserve University and has written numerous academic papers, chapters, and books related to education and child development. She maintains a clinical practice and also speaks to schools, professional organizations, and corporate groups around the world on the topics of child and adolescent development, family mental health, and adult well-being.
Galey Alix
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Home renovation expert, 10-year Goldman Sachs Executive, and viral content creator Galey Alix has curated a unique approach to reinvention that is winning over audiences. After a tough life experience, Galey decided to take a hiatus from social media and prioritize her mental health and wellness. When she logged back on several months later, she discovered her home makeover videos had gone viral, and seized the opportunity to found Galey Alix Design. As the CEO of her own company, Galey surprises deserving families with weekend home renovations – which has earned her 4.7M followers online. She is the Host of MAX's Home in a Heartbeat with Galey Alix. Galey is in-demand for her insights about finding your purpose, balancing professional opportunities with personal goals, and building a values-based business.
Galey and her work have been featured in Business Insider, Forbes, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, on The Today Show, Rachael Ray Show, Tamron Hall Show, the BEHIND THE BOSS Podcast, and more, and she has been ranked the 4th most influential designer in the world by Vogue. Beyond her wildly popular projects reinventing spaces, Galey is also an advocate for mental health and resilience, sharing her journey of overcoming an eating disorder and how she handles the cyberbullying she has faced as a viral content creator online. In powerful keynote speeches and conversations, Galey shares her message of the power of asking for help and the importance of prioritizing kindness no matter the obstacles you’re facing.
Missy Franklin
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Olympian Missy Franklin was one of the best swimmers in the world. She began swimming competitively at the age of 5 and competed in her first international event at the age of 14. At 16, she launched to international fame when she won 5 medals, 3 gold, at the 2011 FINA World Championships. Franklin’s precocious success was followed by her appointment to the U.S. National Team, with whom she won 5 Olympic gold medals. After winning 6 more gold medals at the 2013 FINA World Championships, Franklin became the most decorated female swimmer in history. Franklin has been inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame for her outstanding successes in the pool. Touch the Wall, a documentary following her life and preparation for the Olympics, was released with two thumbs up from swimmers and non-swimmers alike. Franklin’s story has inspired millions globally.
Recognized for her bright smile and engaging personality, Franklin has been named “World Swimmer of the Year" and "American Swimmer of the Year" by Swimming World Magazine and earned the ESPYs for Best Female Olympian and Best Female College Athlete. Franklin now speaks on teamwork, excellence, and success while supporting awareness and fundraising efforts for genetic diseases.
David Kessler
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Bestselling author David Kessler is the world’s foremost expert on grief and loss. He is the author of six books, including the #1 New York Times bestseller Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief, inspired by the sudden death of his twenty-one-year-old son. Kessler is the Chief Empathy Officer of Empathy, an HR product companies offer to employees who are facing loss and grief. He is also the founder of www.grief.com. Kessler facilitates talks, workshops, and retreats for those experiencing grief.
For most of his life, Kessler has taught physicians, nurses, counselors, police, and first responders about the end of life, trauma, and grief. Kessler’s volunteer work includes serving as an LAPD Specialist Reserve for traumatic events and working with the Red Cross’s disaster services team. Kessler’s perspectives on grief have been sought by hosts including Coca Cola Company, California State University, Family & Children's Service, and more.
Mark Nepo
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Poet, philosopher, and spiritual teacher Mark Nepo has made a significant impact for over forty years as “one of the finest spiritual guides of our time,” “a consummate storyteller,” and “an eloquent spiritual teacher.” With over a million copies sold, Mark has moved and inspired readers and seekers all over the world with his #1 New York Times bestseller, The Book of Awakening. Renowned for his widely accessible work, he has published twenty-three books – which have been translated into more than twenty languages – and recorded sisteen audio projects. Recent work includes Surviving Storms (2022) and The Book of Soul, named by Spirituality & Practice as one of the Best Spiritual Books of 2020, and the Nautilus Book Award Winners Drinking from the River of Light and Things That Join the Sea and the Sky. Mark devotes his writing and teaching to the journey of inner transformation and the life of relationship, and has been highly sought after as an inspirational speaker for events with groups like the Chautauqua Institution, the Omega Institute, Sun Valley Wellness Festival, Mile-Hi Church, among many others.
In his 30s Mark was diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma, a struggle which helped to form his philosophy of experiencing life fully while staying in relationship to an unknowable future. Mark has received numerous awards for his work, including AgeNation’s Life-Achievement Award, and has been named one of the 100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People by Watkins: Mind Body Spirit. He was chosen as one of OWN’s SuperSoul 100, a group of inspired leaders using their gifts and voices to elevate humanity, and has appeared several times on Oprah’s SuperSoul Sunday on OWN TV. Mark is a regular columnist for Spirituality & Health Magazine, and has been interviewed by Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, among many other media appearances. Audiences leave his talks feeling uplifted, more connected to what it means to be human, and with a fresh perspective on what it means to overcome adversity: "Mark was beyond wonderful! People fell in love with him and were truly and deeply moved by his teaching. I could not be more grateful!" (Chautauqua Institution)
Andy Grammer
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Multiplatinum recording artist and Emmy-winner Andy Grammer has brought inspiration and a deep sense of empathy to people across the world for over a decade. A former street performer, Andy shot to fame with pop hits like the quadruple platinum ‘Honey, I’m Good’, and platinum singles ‘Keep Your Head Up’, ‘Fine By Me’, gold single ‘I Found You’, and many more. Recognized as the #1 streaming artist in the world in the category of Happy/Pop, Andy takes audiences on an inspirational journey of music that nourishes the soul, heartwarming personal stories, and an authentic conversation about mental health and finding your true self for an unforgettable event.
Andy has earned a Sports Emmy for “Outstanding Music Direction” and a Clio Award for his song ‘Don’t Give Up On Me’, which was featured in ESPN’s Annual V Week for Cancer Reach. His music has been featured on TV and in films like Five Feet Apart. Andy has electrified TV audiences with performances on The TODAY Show, Jimmy Kimmel LIVE!, Good Morning America, American Idol, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and The Late Late Show with James Corden, in addition to appearing as a contestant on Dancing with the Stars. Through interactive musical events, keynotes, and as a consummate host, Andy makes an impact with his empowering message of grounded optimism and finding your true self.
Lecrae
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A multi-Grammy Award-winning, platinum selling artist, Lecrae has evolved into a New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur, speaker, thought leader, philanthropist, and Co-Owner/President of Reach Records. Referring to himself as a ‘social anthropologist,’ Lecrae seeks social change through authentic connections and calls for redemption through positive change. This year, he’ll also release his second book, I Am Restored: How I Lost My Religion, But Found My Faith, a follow-up to his New York Times best-seller, Unashamed.
A catalyst for restoration in faith, music, and popular culture, Lecrae's viral TED Talk helped the public see beyond his music and focus on his message: what we say and do in hip-hop - and in the world - matters, so we should be thoughtful, careful, generous and respectful. In countless interviews, in his music and in his writings, Lecrae continues the message in hopes of restoring faith. “We can change the narrative, empower the disenfranchised, and close wealth gaps and can restore the dignity stripped from us, but we can’t do that by separating ourselves. We need to connect with each other and lean on God to restore our sense of purpose and worth,” shares Lecrae.
To date, he has sold more than 3 million copies and been nominated for 5 Grammy Awards including a win for Best Gospel Album, 15 Dove Awards, one Billboard Music Award, and received both a Soul Train Music Award and BET Hip-Hop Nomination. From his 2017 album, All Things Work Together, his single “I’ll Find You” ft. Tori Kelly, is now certified platinum by the RIAA (sold over 1 million copies) and “Blessings” ft Ty Dolla $ign is now Gold (sold over 500k).
Ricki Lake
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Emmy Award-winning pop culture icon Ricki Lake has built an award-winning acting and producing career based on her graciously candid sensibility and authentic, relatable nature. After debuting as the original Tracy Turnblad in John Water’s Hairspray, Lake has starred in 50+ television and film roles, earning an Independent Spirit Award Nomination for Best Female Lead. Lake became the youngest talk show host in history with the launch of Ricki Lake, an unprecedented success that changed talk television forever and garnered a Daytime Emmy Award. Lake’s award-winning documentaries, The Business of Being Born and Weed the People, uncovered hidden truths of American pediatric care at the Tribeca Film Festival. Lake’s strength is undoubtedly her ability to share the truth through her unique but familiar lens.
Lake’s memoir, Never Say Never: Finding a Life That Fits, vulnerably recalls the ups and downs of her experience in the spotlight to remind audiences that life always hands you the unexpected. With her signature informative yet conversational delivery, Lake educates audiences on how to make informed choices when it comes to their physical and mental health, inspiring any group to let go of their fears to find happiness within themselves.
Jane Pauley
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CBS Sunday Morning’s Jane Pauley is one of broadcasting’s most respected journalists and hosts. Prior to anchoring on CBS, Pauley spent over a decade on NBC's Today, was a co-founding anchor of Dateline NBC for over a decade, and hosted the daytime series The Jane Pauley Show. Pauley is the recipient of multiple Emmys, the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism, the Edward R. Murrow Award for outstanding achievement, and the Gracie Allen Award from the Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television. Pauley is a member of the Broadcast and Cable Hall of Fame. She is the author of two New York Times bestsellers: a memoir, Skywriting: A Life Out of the Blue and Your Life Calling: Reimagining the Rest of Your Life. A familiar face on television, Pauley’s celebrity fills the room with optimism, and audiences often ask her to return, citing their audiences’ warm reception.
Pauley is praised by audiences for her relatable and personal inspirational message. She advocates for people 50+ starting different careers, making a difference, and pursuing their dreams. She is also a highly regarded advocate for mental health, children’s health, and education issues. Pauley has shared her inspiring message with hosts including the American Academy of Physician Assistants, National Association of Community Health Centers, California State Association of Counties, and more.
Charles Blow
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Columnist, New York Times bestselling author, and political commentator Charles Blow fearlessly tackles today’s most pressing issues with depth, nuance, and tremendous insight. Now an Op-Ed columnist at The New York Times, Mr. Blow previously served as the paper’s Graphics Director, leading The Times to significant awards. He has also worked as the Art Director of National Geographic Magazine and for The Detroit News. Blow is the New York Times bestselling author of Fire Shut Up in My Bones, which won a Lambda Literary Award, the Sperber Prize, and appeared on numerous “best of” lists. A memoir, the book was called “searing and unforgettable” by People Magazine and was adapted into a critically-acclaimed opera with a groundbreaking run at The Metropolitan Opera – the first performance of an opera there by a Black composer. His second book, The Devil You Know: A Black Power Manifesto, draws on both his personal experience and observations of society to call for an end to systemic racism. He is also a contributor to the Encyclopedia Brittanica. Blow is a prolific and insightful commentator on politics, public opinion, and social justice, often challenging those in power with clarity and candor.
Heralded for his forward-thinking coverage of American politics and society, as well as his skill in graphic design to create powerful narratives with compelling visuals, Mr. Blow is also an in-demand speaker and gifted moderator. He is a consultant for the MacArthur Foundation and Press Forward, a half-billion-dollar philanthropic effort to help maintain and restore local news. Mr. Blow hosts “Ideas at Ford with Charles Blow,” a lecture series at the Ford Foundation, and he is a consultant for the MacArthur Foundation and Press Forward, a half-billion-dollar philanthropic effort to help maintain and restore local news. He has appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, SalonTV, CBS News, and regularly as an analyst on MSNBC, and has been featured in The Washington Post, The Ringer, Oprah Daily, and more about his highly acclaimed work. An advocate for social justice and racial equity, Mr. Blow speaks about income inequality, xenophobia, and mental health, generating impactful conversations that resonate with audiences of all kinds.
Naomi Osaka
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Tennis icon, founder and serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist Naomi Osaka has transformed the world of sports with her outspoken advocacy for racial justice and player wellbeing. Ranked No. 1 in the world, the four-time Grand Slam Singles Champion made history as the first Japanese tennis player to win a Grand Slam and the first Asian player to hold a top ranking. The proud daughter of a Haitian father and Japanese mother, Naomi has used her platform to bring attention to racial inequality and police brutality, and sparked a global conversation about mental health awareness.
Naomi is the Founder of KINLÒ, a functional skincare solution for melanated skin and underserved communities, the co-founder of sports representation company Evolve and media company Hana Kuma, and has equity in more than a dozen brand partners, including Hyperice, Sweetgreen, and the crypto exchange FTX, in addition to being an early investor and advisory board member for Tom Brady’s NFT platform Autograph. Renowned for her advocacy for mental health, Naomi has partnered with Modern Health, a mental health resources company, as the company’s chief community health advocate. Her decision to take a break from tennis sparked an international conversation about the wellbeing of athletes, and of women of color in the workplace, and she became the leader of a movement for greater mental health care and awareness that continues to make an impact today.
Naomi has written powerful pieces for The New York Times, TIME, Esquire, and been profiled in countless publications, including Vogue, which heralded her as “the people’s champion.” She has been named to the TIME 100 three years in a row – in his profile for her, Russell Wilson wrote: “But sometimes, someone’s sphere of influence is so great, they can change a culture, change a society, change a whole world. Naomi Osaka has the power to do that.” She has been named a Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year, received the Laureus Breakthrough of the Year Award as well as the Laureus Sportswoman of the Year Award, and was chosen as the AP Female Athlete of the Year, among numerous honors.
Grant Williams
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Professional basketball player Grant Williams is a leader on and off the court, as two-time back-to-back SEC Player of the Year and First Vice President of the National Basketball Players Association. He is recognized by fans of his college team as one of the best players in their history and has been called “a true student of life and basketball” by the Boston Globe. Known for his passion for strategic thinking, Williams is a dedicated academic mentor. He graduated in just three years from the University of Tennessee with a degree in supply chain management from the University of Tennessee, one of the top public programs in the country for supply chain management. The league’s Senior VP of Player Development, Jamila Wideman, called him "an incredible storyteller" with a good sense of humor and a willingness to be vulnerable. Williams brings humor and insight to high-powered events, touching on leadership, teamwork, gender equality, mental health awareness, and more.
Dubbed a “high-energy Renaissance man” in a glowing Forbes profile, he’s received accolades for his commitment to giving back to the community, a passion which is central to his purpose. Williams has leveraged his platform as an NBA rookie to make a major impact in the lives of young people, creating a group mentoring program. For his work empowering young people, he received the Bill Russell Mentoring Award. Williams is a former Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics player and current Power Forward for the Charlotte Hornets. Williams invigorates audiences with his sharp wit, compelling personal story, and his belief that your dreams should be central to your everyday life for maximum success.
Dan Harris
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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.
Antonia Hylton
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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.
Stacy London
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Beloved style expert, TV host, and author Stacy London is one of America’s foremost style experts and a pop culture icon. Best known as the co-host of TLC’s iconic show What Not to Wear for ten seasons, Stacy also hosted and executive produced Love, Lust, or Run. She is the New York Times bestselling author of Dress Your Best and The Truth About Style, and has served as a style correspondent for the Today Show, Access Hollywood, Rachel Ray, and The View. Throughout her career, Stacy has made her mark by raising the confidence of others through empowering and uplifting projects and speaking events.
In 2021, Stacy became the Founder and CEO of State of Menopause – a holistic product line for women which addresses the symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause. By tackling this topic – which is wrapped in shame and stigma – Stacy is leveraging her expertise as a brand leader and continuing to help people from suffering silently, raising their confidence and self-esteem. In 2023, she sunset the company in favor of a long-term educational and advocacy platform about the culture of mid-life, aging, and menopause which she will debut in 2024. She currently advises several other brands on menopause and mid-life.
She previously hosted the mental health podcast Could Be Better, tbh, in collaboration with the Crisis Text Line and The Jed Foundation (JED). Stacy has spoken for groups including Harvard University, Meijer, Vassar College, The Global Wellness Conference, and Women in Retail Summit on the topics of style, self-esteem, and giving menopause the makeover it deserves!
Kendall Toole
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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.
Bill Frist
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Uniquely qualified to discuss the challenges and solutions in health and climate policy, William H. Frist, MD is a heart and lung transplant surgeon and former two-term Republican U.S. Senator from Tennessee who served as U.S. Senate Majority Leader from 2003 to 2007. He ascended to that position, the highest-ranking elected official in his party, after spending fewer years in Congress than anyone in history.
Today, Senator Frist is the Global Board Chair of The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the world’s largest conservation organization. As chairman, he is committed to preserving the health of our planet, recognizing that population health is empirically linked to healthy ecosystems. He also is Founding Partner at Nashville’s Frist Cressey Ventures, and he has founded two “unicorn” companies ($1B valuation) that serve the healthcare needs of hundreds of thousands of patients across the United States. He is a respected national leader in business and venture capital. Two of his companies have been in the top three companies for the past two years on the INC5000 list of fastest growing companies in America. He also hosts the healthcare podcast A Second Opinion: Rethinking American Health and eponymous newsletter which discuss the latest in human health as it is influenced by nature, medical innovation, the changing climate, and public policy, and considers commonsense solutions that work in neighborhoods and on a global scale.
He is actively engaged in the business as well as the medical, humanitarian, and philanthropic communities.
Brandon Kyle Goodman
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Actor and writer Brandon Kyle Goodman has a unique talent for using storytelling to connect heterogeneous audiences, bringing a powerful voice to conversations about community cohesion and unity. Goodman's work on beloved entertainment properties more are a rich repository of behind-the-scenes stories and humor.
As an actor, Goodman is known for Netflix’s Feel the Beat, Amazon’s Modern Love and People Just Do Nothing, Alive in Denver, The Blackout, The Relationtrip, Hulu’s Plus One, and Blue Fox’s Papi Chulo, among others. As a writer, Goodman’s work is showcased in the acclaimed Netflix animated series Big Mouth and its spin-off series Human Resources. Goodman is also the creator, writer, and star of their solo show The Latrell Show, performed virtually in partnership with the IAMA Theatre Company. Goodman is proud to be a nonbinary, queer Black leader and a staunch advocate for Black lives, and is a sought after voice in the vital conversations shaping our world today.
Goodman continues conversations and meaningful action on behalf of Black lives through their podcasts: Black Folx, which features Black personalities of various identities, and Do the Work, discussing all things race and personal relationships. They also co-hosted the podcast series accompanying HBO’s In Treatment, discussing mental health representation in communities of color. Goodman's first book You Gotta Be You explores the intersections of their race, sexuality, and gender, and was Audible's Best of the Year in Well-Being. In their writing as well as in memorable keynote speeches, Goodman shares insights on nuanced topics with humor and authenticity that will resonate with audiences of all kinds.
Cole Imperi
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Thanatologist, chaplain, deathworker, author, and entrepreneur Cole Imperi is one of America’s leading experts on death, dying, and grief. A triple-certified thanatologist, someone who studies death and dying, Imperi is the Founder of the School of American Thanatology, which serves students from 20 countries. She is has pioneered the fields of Thanabotany, Deathwork (including Death Championing), and developed Shadowloss, Shadowlight, and Dremains. She has also served as President of the Historic Linden Grove Cemetery & Arboretum, works with death-related businesses through her consulting firm Doth, and publishes death and loss-related resources. Prior to her work as a thought leader and entrepreneur, Imperi worked as a chaplain-thanatologist in one of America’s 25 largest jails, served as a mortuary college professor, a crematory operator, hospice volunteer, grief support group leader for children and adults, and served on the board of a green burial startup. Her first book, A Guide to Your Grief, walks everyone through what they need to know about loss. Imperi is a compassionate expert on death, grief, and loss, and offers practical advice about cultivating empathy and resilience to overcome adversity.
Rachel Cargle
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Public academic, writer, entrepreneur, and philanthropic innovator Rachel Cargle is a thought leader in the spaces of social justice and equity, intersectionality, mental health awareness, and accessible learning through ground-breaking social ventures. Cargle is the Founder and President of The Loveland Foundation, Inc., a non-profit offering free therapy to Black women and girls. Under her umbrella company, The Loveland Group, she has created The Great Unlearn, a self-paced donation-based learning community, The Great Unlearn for Young Learners, an online learning space for young folks launching in 2022, and Elizabeth’s Bookshop & Writing Centre – an innovative literacy space designed to amplify, celebrate, and honor the work of writers who are often excluded from traditional cultural, social, and academic canons. As a keynote speaker, Cargle is highly sought-after for her insights on the history of race and its present-day impacts, intersectional and inclusive feminism, and values-based goal setting for individuals and organizations.
Cargle and her work have been featured in The New York Times, InStyle, Glamour, Huffington Post, The Washington Post, The New Yorker and Forbes. She is a regular contributor to The Cut, Atmos, and Cultured Magazine. In addition to her TEDx Talk Coming to Terms with Racism’s Inertia: Ancestral Accountability, Cargle has appeared on TIME100 Talks, Red Table Talk, NBC News Now, and more. Her signature public lecture Unpacking White Feminism has been featured on campuses around the country including American University, Yale, and Harvard, and Cargle has spoken at Apple, Spotify, and Facebook. Her book A Renaissance of Our Own: A Memoir & Manifesto on Reimagining is a deeply personal and insightful testament to the power of reimagining to dismantle the frameworks and systems that no longer serve us while building new ones that do.
Raymond Braun
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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.
Vic Blends
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Motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and barber Victor Fontanez – known by his social media handle Vic Blends – is the most famous barber in the world and the leading motivational voice of the new generation. Vic started cutting hair in his mother’s garage his senior year of high school, and this side hustle quickly turned into passion, then passion turned into purpose. Within five years Vic has amassed more than 18M social media followers and has risen to international success. Beyond his success on TikTok, he became the lead talent in Rockstar’s Latinx Equity Campaign which aired during the NBA Finals. Vic is passionate about making a social impact and shares an empowering message of personal growth, mental health awareness, social change, and more.
Giving back to his community and leaving a legacy are two major pillars for Vic, which prompted him to launch Vic Blends Academy – an online curriculum for the next generation of barbers. Thousands of inspired fans and students have already signed up. Building on his passion for bettering the community has grown from there, when Vic announced the launch of the first licensed barber schools in California Prison history. This program will give incarcerated people the opportunity to obtain their barbers licenses with hopes of setting them up for success upon release. He also funds and hosts an annual giveback to his hometown of Fayetteville – giving thousands of families supplies they need during the holidays. In honor of this monumental project, he received the key to the city of Fayetteville from its mayor. An effusive and energizing voice in conversations about social changing and impact, Latinx culture, and anti-bullying, Vic shares his inspiring insights worldwide.
Taylor Cassidy
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Content creator and activist Taylor Cassidy teaches unsung Black history with quick wit and strong passion. As seen in her series Fast Black History and Black Girl Magic Minute, she uses her platform to advocate for inclusion, representation, and love for one’s culture. Cassidy currently is a correspondent on Nickelodeon’s Nick News, a radio host for Sirius XM's TikTok Radio Channel, and recently became the first youth speaker at the United Nations International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Cassidy’s Ted Talk, “Why Real Change is About More Than Just Going Viral,” invites listeners to rethink impact both on and offline.
Cassidy has been widely recognized as a premier creative. In 2020, she earned a Creator Honor from Liza Koshy at the Streamy Awards and was featured on TikTok's Top 100 list as one of 10 "Voices of Change: Most Impactful Creators." Cassidy has also been named to Teen Vogue's "21 under 21" and Forbes’ “30 Under 30” lists. Generous with sharing her story on Black identity and finding her creative voice, Cassidy is passionate about encouraging others to dream bigger for themselves.
Joanne Lipman
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Powerhouse journalist Joanne Lipman has transformed newsrooms across the country – and now she’s turned her keen eye to transforming work and life in the post-pandemic era. In her blockbuster new book, Next!: The Power of Reinvention in Life and Work (March 2023), she offers a deeply reported, delightfully readable look at how to change your life, your workplace, or your career -– and how to inspire innovation in others. It follows her No. 1 bestseller That’s What She Said, about achieving gender equity at work and at home, inspiring men as well as women to join together to promote diversity, innovation and excellence.
One of the nation’s most prominent journalists, Lipman is the former editor-in-chief of USA Today and the USA TODAY Network, Conde Nast Portfolio, and The Wall Street Journal Weekend Journal, leading those organizations to six Pulitzer Prizes. Dubbed “innovator in chief” by The New York Times and “star editor” by CNN, Lipman began her career at The Wall Street Journal, where she rose to become the highest-ranking woman in the paper’s history. Lipman has been in-demand with groups such as Motorola, Google, Aetna, Chevron, NBC Universal, among many others.
Lipman is sought after for her insights, appearing on ABC, CNN, MSNBC, NBC, and CBS, and is an on-air contributor at CNBC. Her work has appeared in publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, TIME, Fortune, and Harvard Business Review. She teaches a popular Yale University course on Media & Democracy, focused on issues including polarization and combatting misinformation. A lively and entertaining speaker, Lipman offers action-oriented insights and critical analysis into issues ranging from workplace culture, to personal and business growth and transformation, to fostering diverse and equitable organizations, and more.
Venus Williams
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Legendary tennis champion, New York Times bestselling author, and entrepreneur Venus Williams has made a lasting impact on and off the court with her entrepreneurship, advocacy, and fight for equality. Venus has won 7 Grand Slam titles, 5 Wimbledon championships, and 4 Olympic gold medals, and was formerly ranked No. 1 in the world. One of the most accomplished and inspiring women in the history of sports, she has been a steadfast advocate for equal pay, women’s empowerment, and social justice. Venus is also the New York Times bestselling author of Come to Win. Venus shares her insights in motivational speaking events for groups including Capital One, Ernst & Young, Infor, Gannett, and many more.
Heralded for her innovative business acumen, Venus is the Founder of V Starr, a full-service commercial and residential design firm. She has expanded her portfolio with the launch of her plant-based protein company Happy Viking. Venus recently served as the Executive Producer on the Academy Award-winning Warner Bros. biopic King Richard – which told the story of her father’s impact on her childhood and career as she became a tennis icon and changed the sport for generations to come. Venus has been honored with Variety’s “Power of Women” Award, as Glamour Magazine’s “Woman of the Year,” CARE Impact Award for Gender Equality, ESPN’s “WTA Player of the Year,” and one of Forbes’ “Celebrity 100.”
Venus consistently receives glowing reviews for her events, such as: “Venus was absolutely incredible. Everyone is still talking about her fireside chat. She was so gracious with her time and brought such amazing energy to the event.” (eXp World Holdings)
Camille Kostek
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Model, actress, and entrepreneur Camille Kostek is known as the host of NBC’s Dancing with Myself and co-host of the top-rated TBS reboot Wipeout alongside John Cena and Nicole Byer. Kostek gained international prominence after landing the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition cover in 2019 alongside Tyra Banks, after winning the first-ever SI Model Search the previous year. She’s been featured in ELLE and on the covers of Haute Living, Ocean Drive, and BELLA, among others. In addition to her work on some of today’s favorite TV shows, Kostek starred in the feature films Free Guy and I Feel Pretty. She has appeared on Good Morning America, Access Hollywood, EXTRA, E! News, SI TV, and co-hosted shows on SIRIUS XM radio to millions of listeners. Kostek has hosted many red-carpet events, including the Sports Illustrated Sports Person of the Year Awards, SXSW, Maxim Hot 100, and the Sports Illustrated correspondent at Super Bowl LLI for the NFLPA carpet, among many others, and has spoken at Providence College, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Northeastern University, University of New England, and more.
After growing up as a trained competitive dancer, Kostek took her passion professional, joining the NFL cheer squad for the New England Patriots. Camille shares her love of dance on social media, and her catchphrase ‘Never Not Dancing’ has gone viral. Her message of positive movement and self-love inspired her to launch an annual OWN IT tour, where her motivational events with college students touch on body positivity, self-acceptance, mental health, and manifesting your life. As an entrepreneur, Kostek has launched ‘The Camille Collection with Swimsuits for All and Dune Jewelry. As a dedicated philanthropist, her endeavors include Boston Children's Hospital, Gronk Nation Youth Foundation, and advocating for 4Ocean – a public benefit corporation and Certified B Corp committed to ending the ocean plastic crisis. Kostek is passionate about using her platform to continue spreading self-love and inner strength at highly inspirational events for audiences of all kinds.
Merryl Tengesdal
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Naval Aviator and Air Force Combat Pilot Colonel Merryl Tengesdal (Ret.) shares a story of relentless determination. One of the most interesting and compelling maverick women in aviation, Colonel Tengesdal piloted the “Dragon Lady” high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft, deploying worldwide in support of combat and military operations for over two decades. She has served as the Director of Inspections for the Air Force Inspector General, Commander of Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, and made history as the first and only African American woman USAF U-2 Pilot. With experience flying in combat zones, she offers insights into staying focused and making critical decisions in high-risk situations. Colonel Tengesdal’s lessons translate seamlessly for business leaders, executives, and professionals navigating fast-paced industries.
Colonel Tengesdal’s remarkable career is chronicled in her memoir Shatter the Sky. She invites readers into her world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her - from her childhood in the Bronx, to her years deployed in the Middle East, South America, and Asia, to her experience on the hit reality show Tough As Nails. Colonel Tengesdal speaks on overcoming obstacles, pushing past limitations, and succeeding in any industry, no matter the odds.
Colonel Tengesdal has also appeared as a commentator on PBS’ UNLADYLIKE2020: The Bessie Coleman Story, as a technical consultant on Bridge of Spies, and as a featured contributor for Smithsonian Channel’s Air Warrior. Colonel Tengesdal was inducted into the 2019 Gathering of Eagles Foundation as an aviation pioneer and is a dedicated advocate for women and children of color in STEM. Her story is one of relentless determination, making her an excellent choice for audiences seeking motivation to break barriers and embrace changes.
Amy Schumer
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Emmy-winning and Golden Globe-nominated standup comedian, actress, writer, producer. and director Amy Schumer’s combination of humor, authenticity, and advocacy fosters a genuine connection with audiences worldwide. Schumer is the creator, star, writer, and executive producer of Comedy Central’s Inside Amy Schumer, which won a Peabody Award, a 2015 Writers Guild Award for Best Comedy/Variety Sketch Series, the first-ever Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Sketch Variety Series, and a nomination Outstanding Directing and Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series. Schumer’s Universal Pictures film Trainwreck (2015), dominated the worldwide box office as the hit summer comedy. She won the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a Comedy and was nominated for a Writers’ Guild Award in the category of Original Screenplay. That same year, the British Academy of Film and Television (BAFTA) honored Schumer with The Charlie Chaplin Britannia Award for Excellence in Comedy. In 2016, she was nominated for a Tony for her role in Steve Martin’s Meteor Shower. Schumer’s three-part documentary series, Expecting Amy premiered on HBO Max, an intimate look at Schumer’s fertility battles difficulties while documenting the formation of her latest comedy special. She also premiered the second season of her Food Network cooking show, Amy Schumer Learns to Cook, with her husband Chris Fischer, an award-winning chef. Her comedy specials routinely receive Emmy nominations and top ratings.Her most recent projects include critically-acclaimed series from Hulu’s Life & Beth Season 2 which Schumer stars in, created, wrote, and directed and the Golden Globe-nominated Netflix comedy special, Amy Schumer: Emergency Contact.
Schumer’s first book, The New York Times bestseller The Girl with The Lower Back Tattoo, earned her a Grammy Award nomination for Best Spoken Word Album. Schumer also recently co-hosted the 94th Academy Awards alongside Wanda Sykes and Regina Hall. Known for her candid approach to discussing topics spanning self-confidence, gender equality, and mental health, Schumer’s relatable humor resonates with any room, making her message both impactful and accessible.
Rich Kleiman
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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.
Dr. Elisa Hallerman, PhD, JD
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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
Ian Happ
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MLB All-Star, entrepreneur, and podcaster Ian Happ is one of the most versatile players in Major League Baseball, both on and off the field. In 2022, Happ became an MLB All-Star and was also named a 2022 National League Rawlings Gold Glove Award winner. He is also the MLBPA Player Representative for the Cubs – taking a leadership role in negotiations between the union and the league owners to find common ground. As a professional athlete, Ian is uniquely positioned to discuss the discipline it takes to be great at your craft, the importance of teamwork, and a having winning mindset – the same principles for success that can be applied in the workplace.
Prior to being draft by the Chicago Cubs in the first round of the 2015 MLB Draft, Happ was a finance major. Ian is involved with a diverse and growing portfolio of companies and takes an active role in building true partnerships by focusing on investment opportunities that make an impact. He shares his love of business with his brother, Chris, who is a CPA. Ian also leverages his platform to connect with charities that speak to his values. Ian is also the Host and Executive Producer of The Compound, a weekly podcast hosted on Jomboy Media – for which Happ is an investor. The podcast brings entertainment and levity to conversations about sports and beyond. Ian delivers sports inspiration, business strategy, and uplifting mental health insights that make an lasting impact with audiences.
John Legend
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EGOT-winning, critically acclaimed, multiplatinum singer-songwriter John Legend has garnered 12 Grammy Awards, two Emmy Awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Tony Award, among others. Legend is the first African-American man to earn an EGOT and one of only fifteen people in the prestigious EGOT club. Legend has released seven celebrated albums over the course of his career and is also a coach on The Voice.
Beyond his music career, John, along with partners Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius, is a principal of Get Lifted Film Co. Most recently, Get Lifted produced David E. Talbert’s acclaimed holiday film Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey for Netflix, the HBO, IDA Award-winning docu-series Atlanta's Missing and Murdered: The Lost Children, the IFC and AMC comedy series Sherman's Showcase and Sherman's Showcase: Black History Month Spectacular, and Rhythm + Flow for Netflix. Get Lifted and Erik Feig’s PICTURESTART formed Picture LIFT, a joint venture focused on developing, producing and financing multiple films in the $10M range, featuring diverse filmmakers and inclusive casts.
From a young age, Legend aspired to use his position in the entertainment industry as a platform for social change. Throughout his career, Legend has committed his time, energy, and resources to social justice and equality. His philanthropy and advocacy has focused on building just, equitable, and thriving communities. Legend initiated the #FREEAMERICA campaign in 2015 to change the national conversation surrounding our country’s misguided criminal justice policies and to end mass incarceration. In 2007, Legend started The Show Me Campaign, to give every child access to a quality education as well as address systemic issues in our criminal justice system that disproportionately impact the poor, minorities, and disadvantaged.
Charlie Davies
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Olympian, CBS sports analyst, and philanthropist Charlie Davies is passionate about uplifting others through inspiration and positive reinforcement. Davies has had an international career spanning twelve years, playing in Sweden, France, Denmark, and MLS, and represented the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team at the 2008 Olympics. He currently serves as a broadcast analyst for CBS Sports, Major League Soccer, and the New England Revolution. Davies also co-hosts Call It What You Want, a U.S. soccer podcast for CBS. Davies is the Director of The ‘Quin Impact Fund, The ‘Quin House’s philanthropic arm. Leveraging his passion for creating a spark for change, he directs the club’s fundraising initiatives, programming, and fosters relationships with nonprofits and corporations. Davies is a motivating speaker on the topics of the power of a positive mindset, overcoming adversity and finding resilience, and philanthropy and the impact of giving back.
Passionately immersed in community service, Davies is a U.S. Soccer Foundation Ambassador, a New England Revolution Club Ambassador, focusing on sponsorships, fundraising, and community relations. He is a survivor of liposarcoma, a rare type of cancer, and is a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society’s “Real Men Wear Pink” campaign. He serves as a member on the Philanthropic Board of Advisors at Boston Children’s Hospital, on the boards of Beacon Academy, Boston’s Institute of Contemporary Art, in addition to volunteering with a myriad of organizations including The Steve Nash Foundation, the Boys & Girls Club of Boston, Horizons for the Homeless, and many others. In sought after engagements, Davies shares his personal story overcoming obstacles to become an Olympian, and how he uses his platform to make a difference.
Thai Randolph
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Thai Randolph was most recently CEO of Kevin Hart’s global media company HARTBEAT, fundraising over $100M. As an award-winning marketer, business leader and architect of NextGen media companies, Thai has been honored on Variety and Entrepreneur's "Women of Impact" lists and AdAge's "40 Under 40," to name a few.
She has built her career at the intersection of content, commerce, and community and led the launch of Women Write Now – a first-of-its-kind screenwriting fellowship developed in partnership with the Sundance Institute and HARTBEAT to champion the next generation of Black women in comedy through mentorship, advocacy, production, and exhibition. Continuing her mission to carve out spaces for overlooked – yet influential – voices in the industry, Randolph and co-founder/actress Tika Sumpter also launched Sugaberry, an audio-first media company for and by Black women – and co-host the Gracie-award winning podcast, The Suga.
Thai’s leadership perspective is in demand at high profile events such as Advertising Week, CES, Sundance, SXSW, Cannes Lions Festival, The Wrap’s TheGrill, Variety’s Inclusion and Entertainment Summits, Future of Television Conference, Digital Entertainment World, Adobe’s Digital Marketing Conference, YouTube's Publisher Summit, Cynopsis’ Big TV Conference, and Streaming Media East, among others. As a result-focused and empathetic leader, she continues to advocate for inclusive representation in entertainment and advertising, pay equity across industries and maternal and mental health for women and people of color.
Gina Belafonte
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Social justice leader, change maker, and artivist Gina Belafonte has spent her life at the intersection of arts and activism. As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Sankofa, she embodies her father Harry Belafonte’s work to educate, motivate, and activate artists and allies in service of grassroots movements and equitable change. Belafonte and Sankofa enlist the support of today’s most celebrated artists and influential individuals, in collaboration with grassroots partners, to elevate the voices of the disenfranchised and promote peace, justice, and quality, as well as cultural and civic engagement. She is also the Lead Producer of the award-winning and internationally acclaimed documentary Sing Your Song, among countless other projects. Most recently, Belafonte expanded her work for equity rights by launching a virtual reality mental health program, expanding access to this vital care using cutting edge VR/AR technology. She is a visionary, drawing on a powerful legacy and building community to focus on the most pressing issues of our time.
Belafonte and her work have been profiled in Elle, AfroTech, Essence, for Newsy, and more. Her arts and activism initiatives include directing the award-winning hip-hop spoken word musical Lyrics From Lockdown, which addresses mistaken identity, mass incarceration, and police brutality, and producing the Many Rivers to Cross Social Justice Arts and Music Festival, uniting 40 artists and 50 social justice organizations to center voting rights, mass incarceration, and poverty. Her collaborations include: For Freedoms on the 50 State Initiative and the reimagining of Norman Rockwell’s Four Freedoms, INTO ACT!ON, and many more. A gifted moderator and inspiring keynote speaker, Belafonte shares lessons from her ground-breaking work and empowers audiences of all kinds to embrace the opportunity to be a force for positive change.
Eric Nam
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Korean American singer-songwriter, TV host, and entrepreneur Eric Nam is one of the most popular and recognizable celebrities in Asia, whose music and advocacy is having a global impact. In an interview for GQ, Nam was described as having “amassed one of the most varied and entrepreneurial legacies to come out of the K-Pop scene.” After growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, and deferring a job offer from Deloitte Consulting, Nam was invited to audition for Korea’s version of American Idol, which launched his meteoric rise as a TV host and pop icon. He was named one of GQ Korea’s “Men of the Year,” one of Forbes’ “30 Under 30 Asia,” and YouTube’s Global Trending “Artist On the Rise,” eventually co-founding and serving as Creative Director for DIVE Studios (DS) – a K-pop focused media company with multiple award-winning podcasts. With the help of his brothers, Nam launched Mindset, a mental health and wellness platform with a library of authentic and intimate video and audio collections from world-renowned celebrities. For his mental health advocacy, Nam received the Time100 Impact Award. Passionate about social impact, diverse representation, and mental health advocacy, Nam has been sought-after to speak for groups like the White House, Milken Institute, JED Foundation, UNESCO, Cornell University, The Korea Society, and NYU, among others.
Nam has been featured in Forbes, Vulture, NPR’s Bullseye with Jesse Thorn, TIME, and many more, and was awarded the Embrace Unity Award by the Council of Korean Americans. He wrote a powerful op-ed for TIME, raising awareness about anti-Asian violence and inspiring change. Nam hosted the DS podcast Daebak Show, celebrating spectacular music, media, and people. Eric's first independent album There And Back Again, which debuted at #3 and #7 on the US and UK Spotify Charts and peaked at #22 Album Sold on Billboard Charts, is inspiring the next generation of change-makers. In 2022, Eric played 60 shows in 54 cities in Europe, North America, Asia, and Oceania with over 85,000 hard ticket sales. In 2023, his second independent album House on a Hill was released to critical acclaim, celbrated with an 80+ city World Tour. Nam debuted as an actor in the psychological thriller, Transplant (2023) further expanding his illustrious career. With authenticity and insight, Nam sparks thought-provoking conversations on important contemporary issues that make an impact with audiences of all kinds.
Alanis Morissette
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Award-winning musician, singer-songwriter, actor, and activist Alanis Morissette is an enduringly popular artist whose celebrated body of work stems from a fierce commitment to authenticity. Her breakthrough album Jagged Little Pill – which earned four Grammys and sold more than 30M records – spawned a worldwide fanbase and became a hit Broadway musical, earning fifteen Tony Award nominations. As an actor, Alanis’s film and TV projects include Dogma, Sylvia, De-Lovely, Sex and the City, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Weeds, among others. On stage, she has starred in The Vagina Monologues and The Exonerated.
Beyond the entertainment world, Alanis is an avid supporter of mental health, women’s empowerment, as well as spiritual and physical wellness. She supports numerous causes that focus on empowerment, art, and environmental causes, and touches on these important issues in her insightful events. Alanis is the recipient of the Global Tolerance Award from the United Nations and Rock the Vote’s Patrick Lippert Award for her dedication to making the world safer for young people. Her uplifting keynotes have connected with audiences at events including the Wisdom 2.0 Festival, UCLA, The Embodiment Conference, and the Engendering Love Summit, where the host raved, “It was a delightful conversation, and I got tons of good feedback how much people appreciated it and Alanis’s insights. Please pass my deep heart felt gratitude to Alanis.”
David Chang
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Momofuku and Majordomo Media founder David Chang has been named one of “the most influential people of the 21st century” by Esquire, received 6 James Beard Awards, was recognized as GQ’s Man of the Year, and is a TIME 100 honoree. He is the creator of Ugly Delicious on Netflix and Secret Chef on Hulu, as well as a culinary contributor to Amazon’s Thursday Night Football. He is the host of The Dave Chang Show and Recipe Club podcasts. His cookbooks Momofuku and Cooking At Home as well as his memoir Eat A Peach are all New York Times bestsellers.
Chang is an engaging speaker known for his insightful discussions about entrepreneurship, food sustainability, and kitchen innovation. Chang’s straightforward and often humorous delivery makes his presentations both informative and entertaining.
Cheryl Burke
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With over 25 years dancing experience and several championship titles under her belt, Emmy nominated professional dancer Cheryl Burke, tangoed and sambaed her way into the hearts of millions through the hit ABC television show Dancing with the Stars becoming champion twice with Emmitt Smith in Season 3 and Drew Lachey in Season 2.
Cheryl has been named one of People Magazine’s Most Beautiful and often appears on Maxim’s Hot 100 List. In 2008, Burke was awarded an Asian Excellence Award and in 2010, she made a much talked about appearance in the music video for Ne-Yo’s Camera Phone. In addition to her onscreen roles, Burke is a noted motivational speaker. Having been publicly attacked about her weight and battling body image issues her entire life, Burke often speaks at medical conferences, women’s conventions and to school age children about self-esteem and having a healthy body image. She also speaks about being a survivor of domestic sexual abuse. Her accomplishments in entertainment were celebrated in 2020 with an induction into the Robert Chinn Foundation’s Asian Hall of Fame.
For Cheryl, dancing is a way of life. It provides a medium for her to express her inner feelings and passions all while maintaining focus and composure during extremely high-pressure situations. It is dancing that has made her such a competitor, both on and off the floor, and made her strive for perfection in anything that she sets out to do.
Julia Gillard
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27th Prime Minister of Australia, world leader, and acclaimed author Julia Gillard offers fresh insights on geopolitics, the global economy, gender equality, and global health. The first woman to serve as Australia’s Prime Minister, Gillard received worldwide attention for her speech in Parliament on the treatment of women in professional and public life. Gillard is the author of three books: her memoir, My Story, Women and Leadership: Real Lives, Real Lessons, co-authored by Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, which analyzes the influence of gender on women’s access to positions of leadership, and Not Now, Not Ever: Ten years on from the misogyny speech, which explores the history and culture of misogyny and the roadmap for the future.
Gillard is a Distinguished Fellow with the Center for Universal Education at the Brookings Institution in Washington and serves as an Honorary Professor at the University of Adelaide. She currently serves as Chair of beyondblue – one of Australia’s leading mental health awareness bodies, Wellcome – a global charitable foundation which supports science to solve urgent health challenges, and is the inaugural Chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership – which is addressing women’s under-representation in leadership through research, practice, and advocacy. She previously led the Global Partnership for Education – the global funding body for education in developing countries. Gillard was appointed to lead South Australia’s Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care.
Named to Forbes list of “The World’s Most Powerful Women,” Gillard’s expertise in leadership, global and mental health, and gender equality has established her a global leader and key voice in today’s most important conversations.
Jonny Wilkinson
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Former Rugby Union player, entrepreneur, and podcaster Jonny Wilkinson is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever play the game. After making his name as one of the shining lights of Rugby Union, Jonny was inducted to the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2014. His services to the sport were recognized by Her Majesty the Queen, initially appointing him as an MBE, latterly upgraded to OBE and subsequently, CBE. In addition to his incredible achievements in sport, Jonny has become an advocate for mental wellbeing, healthy ways to deal with stress and the unknown, and shares his profound insights in impactful conversations.
Jonny was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2003 and World Rugby Player of the Year in Monaco in 2004. Off the pitch, he established the Jonny Wilkinson NSPiRED Foundation – a program designed to support those in teaching and coaching roles towards inspiring the younger generation to live their fullest lives. The six-week program is devoted entirely to the individual, their world, and their potential to perform, lead, and connect with others. Jonny is also the Creator and Host of the I Am… with Jonny Wilkinson podcast – which explores the remarkable transformations of pioneers and thought leaders around the globe. In powerful talks, Jonny shares his authentic journey learning to deal with pressure, overcome and release trauma, and developing a growth mindset.
Dr. David Katz
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Weight management expert Dr. David L. Katz, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.P.M., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.L.M., is a specialist in Internal Medicine, Preventive Medicine/Public Health, and Lifestyle Medicine, with expertise in nutrition. For two decades, he was the founding director of Yale University’s Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center. He is also a past president of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, founder of the non-profit True Health Initiative, and Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Diet ID, Inc. Dr. Katz has been honored with numerous awards for teaching, writing, and contributions to public health, including a James Beard Foundation Award nominee in health journalism, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Doctors’ World Gala and three honorary doctorates.
Recognized globally as a topical expert, Dr. Katz is frequently invited to speak on longevity and wellness. He holds multiple US patents; has over 250 peer-reviewed publications; and has authored/co-authored 19 books to date including multiple editions of leading textbooks in nutrition, preventive medicine, and epidemiology. Dr. Katz has been invited to speak to prestigious hosts including the MIT Colloquium, Yale School of Management, Merrill Lynch, the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, and more.
Chase Bryant
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Country singer-songwriter and mental health advocate Chase Bryant shares his powerful journey surviving mental health crisis and suicide through stories and songs. Bryant grew up dreaming of a life in music, and by age 21 was known for multiple Top 10 singles and tours with Brantley Gilbert and Tim McGraw. But when he achieved early fame, he also struggled with anxiety and depression. He hit rock bottom in a gas station parking lot, and attempted suicide – but after pulling the trigger, he found he was miraculously still alive. Bryant began the long road to recovery from his mental health crisis, eventually writing his extraordinary album Upbringing, which received wide acclaim and was featured on NPR, in People, Taste of Country, and others.
In his songs and impactful speaking engagements, Bryant shares his inspiring message with audiences of all kinds: “they’re not alone in this fight, that somebody’s out there listening and has their back.” Through facing his demons head on, learning to be comfortable in his own skin, making peace with being alone, learning to be okay with not being okay all the time, Bryant has found strength and resilience. He regularly receives rave reviews for his authentic and uplifting speaking engagements, such as: “Everything went great! They loved him and he was so nice and gracious and inspiring. The kids at the Center loved him too.” (Clarity Child Guidance Center's Annual Summit)
Sahar Zand
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Award-winning investigative journalist, producer, and documentarian Sahar Zand is highly regarded for her work on some of today’s most pressing topics: the Iran Nuclear Deal, mental health in Afghanistan, the refugee crisis, climate change, and many more. Zand has worked for the BBC, Channel 4, ITV, Vice News, and numerous other international media outlets, and her report “The Moroccan warrior women beating men at their own games” was chosen as one of the best reports by BBC reports in 2016. Her documentary Britain’s Virginity Clinics for ITV Exposure was nominated for many awards including the Royal Television Society Programme Awards, Amnesty Media, the BAFTAs, and a True Honour Award from the Iranian and Kurdish Women Rights Organisation, where she will also serve as their patron. Zand’s creative and disruptive style of journalism has earned her high praise within the industry, and she is a highly sought-after speaker on the nuances of major global issues of conflict and human rights.
Zand was born in Iran, fled the country to avoid political persecution, and overcame adversity once she found asylum in the U.K., which has given her an insight into marginalized communities that enables her to report from a unique perspective rarely seen in mainstream media. She has been personally affected by poverty, racism, and identity issues, and is a passionate advocate for raising awareness and championing the most marginalized. Zand is a prolific storyteller, and her immersive and impact-driven work connect with a global audience. Her insights about the role of journalism in the rising disinformation epidemic, her personal experience overcoming adversity, and finding strength and resilience are impactful for audiences of all kinds.
Pete Davidson
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Stand-up comedian, actor and writer Pete Davidson recently completed his seventh season as a cast member on Saturday Night Live.
Davidson, 27, is the first SNL cast member to be born in the 1990s. Davidson shot his first one-hour stand-up special for Comedy Central in 2016 and was named one of Forbes’ 2016 “30 Under 30.” In 2020, he released the stand-up special, “Pete Davidson: Alive From New York,” on Netflix.
Davidson co-wrote, executive produced and starred in the critically acclaimed film The King of Staten Island, released in 2020. He has also starred in the independent film Big Time Adolescence, Netflix’s Mötley Crüe biopic The Dirt, Netflix’s Set It Up and John Turturro’s The Jesus Rolls. He was most recently on screen in The Suicide Squad.
Davidson’s upcoming film projects include Meet Cute, I Slept With Joey Ramone, Worst Man and Bodies, Bodies, Bodies.
Davidson is from Staten Island, N.Y., and his birthday is Nov. 16.
Sarah Polley
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Oscar-winning filmmaker, actor, and author Sarah Polley is a storyteller focused on personal stories with powerful cultural resonance. Polley’s film Women Talking received a Best Picture nomination and won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, reverberating with critics and audiences alike as a “powerful act of non-violent protest” (Variety). Polley's previous films include Away From Her - which was nominated for two Academy Awards, Take This Waltz, and her documentary film Stories We Tell, which won Best Documentary Film awards from the Los Angeles Film Critics Association, National Board of Review, and the New York Film Critics Circle, as well as a Writer’s Guild of America award for its screenplay. Polley executive produced and wrote the acclaimed Netflix limited series Alias, Grace, adapted from Margaret Atwood’s novel. In memorable events, Polley speaks on the creative process, the value of storytelling, confronting fear, and what it means to be the author of one’s own life.
Polley starred in a wide variety of films including The Sweet Hereafter (Best Supporting Actress award from the Boston Society of Film Critics), Go (Independent Spirit Award nomination), Dawn of the Dead, Mr. Nobody, and The Weight of Water, to name a few. Polley is the author of the New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice Run Towards the Danger: Confrontations with a Body of Memory, a well-received collection of essays detailing her relationship with her body and how her memory of past and present experiences has contributed to her evolving understanding of self. In profound and ultimately uplifting conversations, Polley inspires her audiences to harness the power of storytelling to live a fuller life.
Lee Sung Jin
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Creator, screenwriter, producer, and showrunner Lee Sung Jin is known for the hit series Beef for Netflix and A24 starring Ali Wong and Steven Yeun, which currently sits at 99% on Rotten Tomatoes. Beef received immediate critical acclaim as a visceral dark comedy that is also profoundly contemplative about the way people relate to one another through extreme emotions and ultimately shared experiences. A brilliant creative and storyteller, Lee speaks to the creative process and celebrating authentic voices in his uplifting and insightful events.
Lee’s past credits include FX’s Dave, Amazon's Undone, HBO’s Silicon Valley, and more. On the feature side, Lee is currently writing Thunderbolts for Marvel, among other projects. Beyond his numerous successful onscreen projects, Lee is an advocate for mental health and wellbeing, spiritual and personal growth, and speaks to shared human experiences that resonate across class and culture.
Kelsey Plum
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Back-to-back WNBA Champion and 2022 All Star Game MVP Kelsey Plum brings motivational insights from her stellar career and commitment to mentorship to uplifting events. The “un-guardable” Kelsey graduated as the NCAA Division I women’s basketball all-time scoring leader, and went on to be named the AP, John Wooden, Naismith, and USBWA College Player of the Year, and went No. 1 overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft. Despite a huge setback with a torn Achilles injury during her 2020 season, Kelsey went on to lead the inaugural USA Olympic 3x3 Team to an Olympic gold medal, earned the WNBA 6th Woman of the Year and All-Star MVP awards, and was named to the All-WNBA First Team. Kelsey led her Las Vegas Aces to its first WNBA championship in franchise history.
Beyond her championship athleticism, Kelsey is a passionate advocate for family & faith, mental health awareness, and giving back to her community. She introduced her inaugural Dawg Class Camp with Under Armour that will work on and off the court with nine of the top women’s college basketball guards to navigate the transition to a professional career. Kelsey is known for her passion for philanthropy, working with Safe Haven NV and coaching several youth basketball clinics. Her meteoric rise to the top of her game has generated major social media capital and given her a platform she uses to share a positive message about being part of a winning culture, navigating life’s transitions, and leaving your legacy.
Chris Redd
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Emmy Award-winning comedian, writer, rapper, and actor Chris Redd performs across the country and internationally doing standup and touring with The Second City Touring Company. Redd is a former repertory player on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and most recently appeared on NBC’s Kenan and on Peacock’s Bust Down. He received the Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for the SNL song “Come Back, Barack.” Previously he was a performer at Chicago’s Second City and iO Chicago. Redd was featured as a 2016 Standup New Face at Just for Laughs in Montreal, and has been in demand for events with groups like Global Citizen Festival.
Redd released his debut stand-up album in 2019, But Here We Are. He has starred in films across genres including Scare Me, Vampires vs. the Bronx, Deep Murder, The House, A Futile and Stupid Gesture, and Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping. Redd starred opposite Kathy Bates in the Netflix original comedy series Disjointed and was featured in the series Wet Hot American Summer, NBC’s Will & Grace, Netflix’s Love, TV Land’s Teachers, Comedy Central’s Detroiters, and Comedy Central Stand-Up Presents. He has also loaned his voice to many projects including Netflix’s Big Mouth, Audible’s 64th Man and Disney’s Star vs. the Forces of Evil. In addition to his award-winning and memorable work on screen, Redd is active in charity work – he works with Poverty Alleviation Charities in Chicago and their Letters to Santa program – and is a sought-after speaker at fundraising events for his programs that combine hilarious and tailored standup sets and insightful moderated conversations.
Laura Lynne Jackson
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International speaker, teacher, and practicing psychic medium Laura Lynne Jackson is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Signs: The Secret Language of the Universe and The Light Between Us, which have been translated into more than 20 languages and are available in over 35 countries. Jackson is a Certified Research Medium with the Windbridge Institute for Applied Research in Human Potential in Arizona and member of the advisory board for the Forever Family Foundation – a group that promotes a better understanding of Afterlife Science and provides comfort and services to grieving people who have lost loved ones. She is dedicated to teaching people how to open to their own psychic and intuitive abilities to fully step into and embrace their divine energy and live their best lives.
Laura discovered her gift as a young woman, but kept her unique abilities hidden from her very normal, suburban life. By day she taught high school English and cared for her three children; at night, she would speak privately on the phone with celebrities, athletes, scientists, and CEOs, connecting them with loved ones who had passed away and conveying information with shocking accuracy and insight, building a bridge beyond the accepted bounds of human experience. Since embracing her gift, Jackson has been featured on The Today Show, Dr. Oz, Fox and Friends, Good Day New York, Telemundo, the Tokyo-based Fuji Television Network, The Huffington Post, Goop.com, Oprah.com, and various news and media throughout the United States and abroad. She has been sought after to speak for groups including the Rhine Research Center, Penguin Random House, Pinterest Annual Conference, the Rubin Museum Speakers Series, the Goop Summit, and more.
Rick Springfield
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Over the past four decades, Rick Springfield has worn many hats as an entertainer and performer. The creator of some of the finest power-pop of the ’80s, he’s a Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold 25 million albums and scored 17 U.S. Top 40 hits, including “Jessie’s Girl”, “Don’t Talk to Strangers”, “An Affair of the Heart”, “I've Done Everything for You”, “Love Somebody”, and “Human Touch”. He’s an accomplished actor who has starred opposite Meryl Streep in the feature film, Ricki and the Flash, gave a chameleonic performance as the creepy Dr. Pitlor in HBO’s prestige drama True Detective, earned great reviews for his portrayal of Lucifer on the CW hit, Supernatural, and most recently played Pastor Charles on American Horror Story: Cult. In 2014, Springfield was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located around the corner from the first apartment he lived in when he first arrived in the U.S. from Australia in 1971.
Rick’s latest album The Snake King finds Rick travelling down a dusty dirt road to explore the blues side of his rock ‘n roll and marks a definite departure from the power pop he has been known for.
Lindsey Stirling
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Lindsey Stirling is one of the biggest artist development breakthrough stories in recent years. An acclaimed violinist from Gilbert, Ariz., Lindsey has entered a futuristic world of electronic big beats and animation using her classical violin training to leap through the music industry with almost 13 Million YouTube subscribers, 3 Billion+ views on her YouTube channel, 2 Billboard Music Awards, Billboard chart-topping hits and albums, as well as sold out tours worldwide. She’s created a new music world where modern classical meets the infectious energy of dance and electronica. Lindsey Stirling embodies the true spirit of today’s independent recording artist whose symbiotic relationship with her fans has led to a worldwide audience filled with positivity. By using her own story to show young adults that confidence in the very thing that makes you unique is the key to success, she continues to be a light in today’s entertainment scene and brings her own brand of ‘Magic’ to the many lives she has touched.
Since the release of her 2012 self-titled debut, the electronic music impresario, violinist, dancer, and artist quietly and humbly became one of the 21st century’s most innovative stars by clinging to her groundbreaking vision of cinematic violin-driven electronic music. She has continued to build an impressive fan base that stretches across all demographics forging her own path for future young artists to emulate.
Lindsey’s musical talent and success on YouTube also launched a successful career into television. Driven by a strong international fan base, Lindsey was runner-up on Season 25 of ABC’s hit show Dancing with the Stars with her partner Mark Ballas and did a stint on NBC’s America’s Got Talent as well.
Her highly anticipated fifth-studio album, Artemis, released in 2019 to critical acclaim and debuted at #1 on the Dance/Electronic Album Chart. In the wake of the cancellation of her 2020 tours due to COVID-19, Lindsey funded and directed a virtual livestream concert that received over 100,00 unique viewers. She started the 2021 year with the release of “Lose You Now”, a single featuring Artist/Producer Mako that reflects on loss.
A motivational speaker in her spare time, recently through various podcasts and live audio chats, Stirling uses her own story to show that you’ve got to have confidence in the very thing that makes you unique – then wait for the world to catch up.
Allison Massari
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While most speakers have a story to tell, there are a select few with one so impactful and poignant that the audience is forever changed. That is what happens when Allison Massari speaks.
Hailed as “life-changing” “riveting” “extraordinary” “bold” and “deeply moving” Allison Massari’s work is a celebration of the power of the human spirit, and her journey is the quintessential story of courage and heart. Allison’s potent message has reached audiences in more than 75 countries and is a testament to hope, radical compassion, and indestructible perseverance. A top keynote speaker, Allison has been recognized with esteemed speaking engagements internationally. She has been featured on PBS, ABC, NBC, and FOX networks and also stars in the award-winning international documentary, Resolve (2015). Her diverse client list includes: Microsoft, GE Healthcare IT, Intel, MDRT, Capital One, Wells Fargo, Kaiser Permanente, 3M, Lilly, HIMSS/CHIME, Allscripts, Siemens Healthcare, and McKesson.
Allison’s unique history gives her compelling authority to address difficult issues with genuine sensitivity and profound insight. An interdisciplinary artist as well as an entrepreneur, Allison was preparing paintings for an important museum exhibition early in her art career when her world was shattered. Hit head-on at 60mph and trapped inside her car, she nearly lost her life in a fiery and explosive collision. Burned alive, conscious the entire time, Allison suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns on over 50% of her body. Astonishingly, navigating the experience compelled her to discover an unshakeable strength and fortitude—and carefully learn the intricacies of what it takes to overcome adversity and live with heart. Through captivating, hope-filled stories, Allison shares her personal journey and elevates audiences, generating renewed excitement for their life and work. Her unforgettable keynote instills essential tools of self-leadership—teaching how to boldly access grace and resilience and be a dynamic force of goodness in the face of challenges. As Allison states, “We can each make a vigorous, life-changing choice to navigate our way through and beyond adversity and be a force of light for ourselves and others.”
Allison is passionate about tailoring her speech to address the specific issues affecting each market. She takes great care in getting to know her clients—their industry distinction, their mission, and their audience, including the pain points and what they are doing exceptionally well. Her incredible empathy and her capacity to precisely acknowledge and appreciate the work that is done in any organization provides extraordinary support, encouragement, and inspiration to audiences worldwide. Whether she is speaking to leadership teams or to your entire workforce, Allison compassionately highlights each person’s value and demonstrates how their work connects to the overall mission. In Healthcare, for instance, Allison’s groundbreaking program addresses the current challenges faced by the medical industry, including burnout, understaffing, time restraints, employee retention, compassion fatigue and everyday stresses. Audiences experience the far-reaching and vital impact of their work and walk away feeling more connected to their purpose and to each other.
Allison is also an award-winning visual artist. Her work has been sought out by museums and private art collectors internationally and is in the permanent collection of the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, Florida. Her colorful and sublime visual art serves as a breathtaking backdrop to all of her keynotes.
Allison Massari’s keynotes are jaw-dropping, heartfelt, and deeply inspirational. She purposefully shares her message of resilience, courage and hope with sincere vulnerability—committed to her desire for no person to feel alone. Prepare to be taken on a journey.
Chris Bashinelli
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“We need more people like Chris in the world,” says Dr. Jane Goodall.
National Geographic Explorer and global storyteller Chris Bashinelli draws on eye-opening experiences in over 40 countries to help organizations boost sales, reignite employee inspiration, and build cultures rooted in genuine human connection.
Through unforgettable stories of adventure, dynamic audience engagement, and exclusive footage from his international TV series, Bash empowers teams to unlock the potential of their greatest asset—their people.
With unparalleled authenticity, humility, and a deep curiosity for the human experience, Bash creates a transformative connection with audiences—setting a new standard in the speaking world.
Dr. Luana Marques
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Dr. Luana Marques is a Harvard professor, best-selling author, and global keynote speaker specializing in high-performance leadership in uncertain times. As the creator of the Bold Move™ framework, she equips individuals and organizations with the tools to override hesitation, embrace discomfort, and take decisive action—especially when the path ahead is unclear.
With two decades of research on the neuroscience of avoidance and decision-making under pressure, Dr. Luana has partnered with Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and top-performing teams to transform the way leaders approach risk, uncertainty, and rapid change. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The New York Times, Good Morning America, and more.
Dr. Luana’s keynotes combine scientific insights, high-energy storytelling, and real-world case studies to help organizations move from hesitation to bold, strategic action—turning discomfort into a competitive edge.
In a world of constant burnout, uncertainty, and rapid change, hesitation isn’t an option for decisive leadership. Dr. Luana’s Bold Move ® methodology provides the tools and playbook to navigate challenges and thrive in today’s business landscape.
For Dr. Luana, the keynote is just the beginning. She is committed to creating moments that go beyond inspiration, ensuring attendees leave not just motivated but equipped with tools for real action.
Through book signings, meet-and-greet opportunities, and interactive discussions, she fosters deeper engagement, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Her best-selling book, Bold Move: A 3-Step Plan to Transform Anxiety into Power, extends the impact of her keynote—giving attendees a science-backed framework to apply long after the event.
Dr. Luana collaborates with organizations to deliver a seamless and high-value experience, whether through bulk book purchases, customized signing sessions, or exclusive VIP engagements. More than just a speaker, she’s a strategic partner in ensuring your event drives lasting transformation.
Reena Ninan
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Reena Ninan is a television journalist and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Good Trouble Productions, a media company focused on amplifying causes through producing, distributing, and hosting engaging content. Ninan created and hosts two top-rated podcasts, Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting and HERO: The Hidden Economics of Remarkable Women.
She has served as a foreign correspondent in the Middle East—reporting from Baghdad to Beirut to Jerusalem—as well as a White House Correspondent for ABC News. She also anchored the CBS Weekend news in New York. Reena is most passionate about foreign affairs, female entrepreneurship, economic inclusion, mental health/wellness, and creating thriving communities. Ninan is a gifted speaker as well as an expert moderator – having moderated conversations for the Council on Foreign Relations, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Centerview Partners, PhRMA, Foreign Policy, and many more.
Glennon Doyle & Abby Wambach
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What does it mean to achieve global success without compromising your sense of self?
Abby Wambach and Glennon Doyle are the powerhouse couple redefining courage, resilience, and leadership in today’s world. A world champion Olympian and a #1 NYT bestselling author, Abby and Glennon put the “can do” in We Can Do Hard Things. Together, they bring their unmatched energy and transformative wisdom to inspire millions through their stories of triumph, vulnerability, and reinvention.
Abby, a soccer legend, World Cup champion, and two-time Olympic gold medalist, knows what it takes to overcome obstacles and lead with courage. Her groundbreaking approach to leadership—“leading from the bench”—shows how true leaders lift others and create space for collective success. Ohio State University said, “I just wanted to let you know the event went AMAZING! … Abby's message was so powerful and truly impacted those in attendance.”
Glennon, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of UNTAMED and host of the wildly popular We Can Do Hard Things podcast, is a global voice for authenticity, mental health, and social justice. With her signature mix of humor, honesty, and profound insight, she empowers people to embrace their truth and live boldly. Microsoft said, “From the moment she stepped on stage you could feel the energy in the audience. She caused people to think and look at the world a little differently, which is exactly what we were striving for. She did a fantastic job for us.”
Together, Glennon and Abby direct audiences toward the internal alignment tools that lead to external success. Audiences leave with the roadmap necessary to pursue their dreams by cultivating a connection to their authentic selves.
Torrey Smith
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Famed NFL Wide Receiver, founder, and podcaster Torrey Smith is a highly regarded philanthropist who focuses on putting community first. A two-time Super Bowl Champion, he helped the Baltimore Ravens win in the 2012 season after being drafted in the second round. Torrey later played with the San Francisco 49ers, where he was the team’s 2016 nominee for the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for his commitment to community involvement. He and his wife Chanel created the Torrey Smith Family Fund, now Level82, which works create a more equitable society that we all deserve, want, and need. They have partnered with Baltimore City Recreation and Parks to launch the LEVEL Up Leadership Academy, revitalizing a recreation center that will host Level82’s dynamic programming including academic support, athletic and enrichment activities, mental health resources, and social services. In compelling moderated conversations, Torrey shares highlights from his time in the NFL and insights about his philanthropic work that resonate with audiences of all kinds.
Since retiring from the NFL, Torrey has established himself as a sought-after voice in the media. He launched a podcast Trending Thoughts with Torrey Smith, featuring engaging conversations about sports, politics, parenting, and a lot more. He also co-hosts The Opening Drive on Sirius XM NFL Radio, offering game analysis and insights. An advocate for mental health, Torrey joined Rose Health as an Investor and Brand Ambassador – sharing that the company’s app has contributed to his own mental wellbeing, from figuring out his strengths and weaknesses, to building resilience. Torrey brings star power to memorable events and his unique perspective about mental health awareness and making a difference in the lives of others.
Marra B. Gad
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Award-winning author, filmmaker, and advocate Marra B. Gad offers powerful insights about belonging, overcoming bias, and finding unity in keynotes and conversations that are tailored to each audience. Gad is the author of THE COLOR OF LOVE: A Story of a Mixed-Race Jewish Girl, a powerful memoir about her experience as a transracial adoptee, which won the 2020 Midwest Book Award for autobiography. Describing herself as ‘a grateful child of adoption’, she is a gifted storyteller who shares her experiences being a Black and Ashkenazi Jewish child adopted by a White and Jewish family in 1970. Gad is an in-demand speaker on topics of diversity and inclusion, mental health awareness, and the power of embracing one’s personal history to find belonging.
Gad is a Women’s Empowerment Award recipient from Women of Reform Judaism, which honors “those who strengthen the voices of others, empower women, and promote progressive Jewish values." She is the Founder and President of Egad! Productions, overseeing the development and production of scripted TV series and films across genres. Gad is deeply committed to expanding and exploring the notion of belonging across multiple spectrums, and has shared her uplifting message with groups like the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival, University Synagogue in LA, the University of Maryland Panhellenic Association, FCB Global, and more.
Kwame Alexander
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Internationally renowned poet, New York Times bestselling author of 40 books, Emmy-winning producer, and educator Kwame Alexander is on a mission to change the world one word at a time. His latest book, Why Fathers Cry at Night, is a powerfully intimate and non-traditional memoir steeped in family history, recipes and poetry. With this vulnerable new offering, Kwame offers people the opportunity to get to know and appreciate his writing on a deeper and more personal level.. Kwame has led cultural exchange delegations to Brazil, Italy, Singapore, and Ghana, where he opened the Barbara E. Alexander Memorial Library and Health Clinic in Ghana, as a part of LEAP for Ghana – now LEAP Global – an international literacy program he co-founded. He is the Writer and Executive Producer of the Disney+ series The Crossover, based on his bestselling novel of the same name, is the founder of Big Sea Entertainment, and is the Executive Producer and Host of the groundbreaking reality TV series America’s Next Great Author. In sought-after engagements, Kwame offers inspiring insights and his powerful storytelling resonates with audiences of all kinds.
Twice long-listed for the National Book Award, Kwame is the recipient of numerous awards and honors including The Newbery Award, The Coretta Scott King Author Honor, three NAACP Image Award Nominations, the Inaugural Pat Conroy Legacy Award, The Dominion Energy Strong Men and Women of Virginia, and the Penn State Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award. A regular contributor to NPR’s Morning Edition and NPR’s Poet in Residence, he has appeared in or on: The Today Show, Comedy Central, BET, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Parade Magazine, and ESPN’s TheUndefeated.com. Kwame has delivered hundreds of riveting keynote speeches for corporations, educational institutions, commencements, and annual organization conferences such as Hallmark, Qualtrics, Kidscreen, Teachers College Columbia University, OpenText, and The International Literacy Association.
Dr. Taryn Marie Stejskal
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As the #1 international expert on resilience and mental wellbeing, Dr. Taryn Marie has inspired audiences ranging from big stages of thousands to intimate gatherings of executives, sharing how we can all effectively face the inevitable moments of challenge, change, and complexity. LA Progressive magazine calls her “the go-to person” and “a secret weapon” for organizations and teams who want to find their edge and rise above the competition. She has received standing ovations from audiences on topics related to change, leadership, confidence, compassion & empathy, innovation, wellbeing, and, of course, resilience. Audience members say her keynotes are:
“Uplifting. Thought provoking. Unforgettable. Your life and view of the world will not be the same after hearing Dr. Taryn Marie speak!”
She is a #1 Wall Street Journal (WSJ) Bestselling Author of the book, The Five Practices of Highly Resilient People: Why some flourish when others fold, and the Founder and Chief Resilience Officer (CRO) of the Resilience Leadership Institute (RLI). By conducting two decades of original research on resilience, Dr. Taryn Marie developed the empirically based framework, The Five Practices of Highly Resilient People and believes that resilience is the key to individual, teams, and organizational growth and acceleration across the globe. Her mission is to positively impact the lives of 1 billion people through the practices of resilience.
Her work has been featured by Fox and NBC News, Bloomberg Business, Thrive Global, and Forbes. Her TEDx talk entitled “How Resilience Breaks Us Out of Our Vulnerability Cage” has been viewed over 1 million times! She is the host of the top 1% acclaimed podcast Flourish or Fold: Stories of Resilience, where well-known people tell their lesser well-known story of facing challenge to remind us that adversity is a necessary ingredient in life.
Adam Markel
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Adam Markel, bestselling author, keynote speaker and resilience researcher, guides individuals and organizations to tap the power of resilience to master the challenges of constant change.
With 18 years as a trial attorney building a multi-million dollar enterprise and 10 years as the CEO of a leading personal development and business training company, Adam has much to share about resilience, culture and change. Yet, some of his most enduring lessons came from his years as an ocean first responder - a life and death environment where Adam learned the importance of cultivating high performance capacity and impeccable teamwork.
In his latest bestselling book, Change Proof, Adam shows how those principles of resilience are equally relevant today for any business that wants to move beyond managing change to actively embracing it and using times of uncertainty, crisis, and chaos to create opportunities and stimulate individual and team growth.
As one of Huffington Post’s top speakers to see and the #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Pivot, Adam’s messages have inspired tens of thousands worldwide. His keynotes, corporate workshops, and business coaching integrate practical business strategies, personal development insights and a unique delivery style to create a high-energy and impactful learning environment.
Adam is currently the CEO of the More Love Media Group, a TEDx speaker and influencer, and host of the Change Proof Podcast, facilitating insightful discussions with business leaders and social innovators and sharing strategies to fully embrace an uncertain world and build Change Proof organizations.
Adam is continuously inspired by his wife of more than 30 years and their 4 amazing children.
Dr. Lisa Damour & Reena Ninan
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Bestselling author and psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and esteemed journalist and media founder Reena Ninan are the co-creators and co-hosts of the popular podcast Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting. Together, Dr. Damour and Ninan offer an informed and compassionate perspective on adult mental health, coping with stress, and cultivating resilience.
Dr. Damour is a three-time New York Times bestselling author and psychologist who is recognized as a thought leader by the American Psychological Association. A regular contributor to The New York Times and CBS News, she maintains a clinical practice and serves as a Senior Advisor to the Schubert Center for Child Studies at Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Damour is known for her critically acclaimed books Untangled, Under Pressure, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers.
Reena Ninan is a television journalist, media executive, and entrepreneur who has worked as a news anchor, foreign correspondent, and White House reporter for ABC News, CBS News, and Fox News. Ninan is the founder and CEO of two media companies: Good Trouble Productions, which creates content with purpose, and News3, a groundbreaking Web3 project that seeks to support the work of independent journalists in countries where democracy is struggling.
In dynamic and personalized events, Dr. Damour and Ninan tailor their conversations to make an impact with corporations, conferences, and organizations looking to tackle pressing mental health questions that truly resonate with each audience.
Neil Pasricha
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A Harvard MBA, New York Times best-selling author, award-winning blogger and one of the most popular TED speakers in the world, Neil Pasricha is a “pied piper of happiness” (The Toronto Star) who dazzles audiences with ideas and frameworks that skyrocket organizational happiness and engagement.
Pasricha spent a decade inside Walmart, the world’s largest company, working for two CEOs directly and then as director of Leadership Development. He complements this “what’s worked” authority with infectious enthusiasm and heartfelt authenticity. He builds trust with audiences quickly and then challenges them to elevate expectations of themselves and commit to the habit of happiness every day.
Pasricha has spoken to royal families in the Middle East, Ivy League deans, and CEOs at organizations such as Audi, Microsoft and GE—all using research and models that enhance individual performance and create a more positive and productive workplace.
In his latest best seller The Happiness Equation (2016), Pasricha provides step-by-step guidelines to illustrates exactly how to apply a unique set of principles to improving and managing everything—your time, your career, your bottom line, your relationships and ultimately, of course, your happiness.
Neil’s writing and work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, CNN, BBC, The Guardian, The New Yorker, The Sunday Times, China Daily, The Jakarta Post, The Sydney Herald and Wired.
Alli Webb
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Founder of Drybar, serial entrepreneur, and New York Times bestselling author Alli Webb shares actionable and inspiring business insights in captivating talks. Webb is is the co-founder of Drybar, Squeeze, and Becket + Quill. In her informative, actionable, and inspiring remarks, Webb demystifies creating a company and brand culture that will transform any industry.
The Inc. Magazine How I Did It cover girl has been named to Fast Company's “100 Most Creative People in Business,” Fortune’s “40 Under 40” list, Marie Claire’s “Most Fascinating Women,” and Inc.'s “100 Women Building America’s Most Innovative and Ambitious Businesses,” Webb is a bonafide business powerhouse and an innovative leader paving the way for aspiring entrepreneurs the world over. Webb also appeared as a guest shark on hit TV series, Sharktank and currently serves as an advisor to many budding brands. Webb delights and motivates audiences with talks ranging from business innovation, to how to tap into the entrepreneurial spirit, to the challenges and opportunities in being a female entrepreneur, and beyond.
Leah McSweeney
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Leah McSweeney is a streetwear pioneer, entrepreneur, and cultural provocateur known for Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York, her brand Married to the Mob, and her podcast Improper Etiquette. Her new podcast, The Leah McSweeney Show, features celebrities, wellness experts, pop-culture icons, up and coming artists, and critical thinkers to have open and honest conversation - where nothing is off limits - that allows the audience to hear a multitude of opinions on various topics in a respectful way. McSweeney launched Married to the Mob, one of the first streetwear brands for women, by women, and Happy Place for sustainably sourced premium sleepwear, and offers candid insights about women’s leadership and creative entrepreneurship.
Leah is a contributor to Penthouse, Hypebae, and Mass Appeal, and author of the memoir Chaos Theory: Finding Meaning in the Madness, One Bad Decision at a Time. McSweeney is an advocate for female empowerment and breaking the stigma around mental health, and shares her transparent and dynamic perspective in memorable events.
Dr. Adjoa B. Asamoah
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Dr. Adjoa B. Asamoah is an experienced executive and strategic consultant to Fortune 500 companies and has worked with local, state, and federal governments for over 25 years. As atrained behavior specialist, she brings to the boardroom a unique ability to ascertain and discern complex issues and deliver thoughtful insights that help companies achieve strategic agendas. With both domestic and international experience, she works as a senior advisor to CEOs, heads of state, ambassadors, secretaries/ministers, and members of Congress across diverse industries and sectors (including consumer brands and products, government, behavioral health, education, and entertainment). Adjoa has extensive risk management, regulatory, and compliance expertise. Additionally, she is responsible for allocating a $76 billion dollar appropriated budget. She leverages cultural intelligence and behavioral insights to create national multicultural marketing campaigns that improve brand image, corporate social responsibility, and companies’ market share.
Tony Gonzalez
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Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez is an actor, author, and entrepreneur. He shares lessons he’s learned throughout his storied career about overcoming the fears and obstacles holding you back from your goals to lead an enlightened existence, with actionable takeaways that will be meaningful for any audience.
Gonzalez currently stars as Desmond Porter in Spectrum Originals’ drama series Long Slow Exhale. Set in the high-stakes world of women’s basketball, Gonzalez portrays a former professional football player who struggles with a medical condition. In fall 2022, Gonzalez joined Amazon Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football as an NFL analyst. He worked previously as a sports analyst for CBS’s The NFL Today, FOX NFL Kickoff and FOX NFL Sunday, as well as the Sports Emmy Award-nominated Thursday Night Football pregame show. As an actor, Gonzalez has appeared on NCIS and in the film xXx: Return of Xander Cage, and he and his brother were featured in the documentary Play it Forward. He has written numerous books, and has developed multi-media programs that celebrate and advocate sports for children in an educational format. While Gonzalez is best known for ‘getting open’ on the field, his podcast Wide Open with Tony Gonzalez is a deep dive into conversation with the brightest minds in the worlds of business and entertainment, discussing health, wellness, and mindset, and how to embrace revolutionary change.
Gonzalez’s philanthropic endeavors include a partnership with the Boys and Girls Clubs; Shadow Buddies, an organization that provides emotional support through education and being named an ambassador for Scholars’ Hope. He is also involved with Give Power, a non-profit organization that develops clean water and energy systems, and won a Presidential Volunteer Award for his work with the Books and Buddies Project.
Bryan Terrell Clark
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Known for his starring role as George Washington in Hamilton: An American Musical on Broadway, Bryan Terrell Clark shares life-changing lessons from his career on Broadway and work in arts education and philanthropy to empower young people to leave their mark on the world.
An actor and singer-songwriter, Clark's numerous acting credentials span theater, television and movies. He starred in the iconic role of Marvin Gaye in Motown: The Musical and starred opposite Laurence Fishburne and Angela Basset in The Pasadena Playhouse production of Fences. Bryan has also appeared in numerous television shows including NCSI: New Orleans, Blue Bloods, Empire and Ava DuVernay's Central Park 5 for Netflix. In addition, Clark appeared in the film Collateral Beauty. Musically, he has written for such artists as Mary J. Blige, and he has performed with Brandy, Patti LaBelle, Ciara, and Michael Bublé. He is now in the studio recording his solo album.
Terrell co-founded the lifestyle brand inDEFINED, created to inspire and teach youth through the arts. The online apparel brand raises money for various charities and philanthropic organizations and supports arts education for at-risk youth.
In keeping with the theme of his life’s work, Bryan has made it his mission to help as many young people as possible find their unique purpose in life. He connects his experiences on Broadway and the entertainment industry to relatable, real-life issues, like tackling insecurity and finding motivation, while inspiring audiences to use their past to fuel their future and discover the best version of themselves.
Chonda Pierce
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Emmy®-nominated and best-selling comedian Chonda Pierce, or “the country comic” as Billboard Magazine dubbed her, has been making audiences laugh for more than three decades with her winning combination of fierce wit and southern charm. A stand-up comedian, television hostess, author and actress, Pierce has channeled her life experiences into positivity, bringing laughter to audiences around the country. As the RIAA’s number one selling female comedian of all time, her hilarious take on life is easily relatable as she publicly opens up to her listeners about times of darkness and depression in her own life, drawing humor and good from every situation.
Pierce is a frequent guest at the famed Grand Ole Opry and has served as host of the Inspirational Country Music Awards and Christian Music Hall of Fame Awards and also co-hosted the GMA Dove Awards in 2012. She has also appeared on Entertainment Tonight, The View, Fox News Channel, Wanda Sykes, Hallmark Home & Family, NY1, CNN’s History of Comedy, How The States Got Their Shapes, and her comedy is regularly featured on XM and Sirius satellite radio. Variety raved about her ability to draw audiences for an encore performance for Chonda Pierce: Laughing in the Dark.
In addition to her comedic work, Pierce has used her success to help others, and in 2006 founded Branches Recovery Center, which offers counseling and treatment to those with depression, anxiety, addiction, regardless of their ability to pay. She has also raised millions of dollars for international relief organizations Compassion International, WorldVision, Food for the Hungry and Feed the Children.
Today, as the RIAA’s best-selling female comedian, Pierce continues to bring the laughs with her unique blend of music and comedy.
David Romanelli
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As a bestselling author, wellness innovator, entrepreneur and intergenerational pioneer, David Romanelli brings a unique, seasoned, and entertaining approach to today’s pressing challenges of work-life balance, stress, information overload, and the overall desire to live a happier, healthier life. He fuses ancient wellness practices with modern passions that give people accessible tools to overcome stress, focus their mind, and improve their relationships at work and home.
David’s newest book, Life Lessons from the Oldest and Wisest, is a reminder that countless professionals, parents, and partners have walked the earth before us. They’ve had triumph and failures…booms and busts…and have the advice we all need to hear…if only we would listen.
His previous book, Happy is the New Healthy, twice reached #1 on Amazon’s Healthy Living Bestseller List. David’s 15 years of experience in the wellness and lifestyle industry, including over a decade touring and presenting around the world, gives him a wide range of expertise to speak with humor and knowledge that connects with audiences both large and small. He has been featured in The New York Times, Food & Wine, Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek.
Leslie Gifford
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Renowned fashion innovator and entrepreneur Leslie Gifford is known for her ability to build both brands and communities. Gifford has built and sold two successful fashion brands: Naked Cashmere and 360Cashmere. Gifford’s story serves as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering valuable lessons on navigating the intricacies of the fashion industry and achieving success through determination and innovation. As a female entrepreneur, she has represented woman founders on national platforms including Forbes, PEOPLE, and more. She is on the board of the Fashion Institute of Technology. Gifford’s dedication to both her craft and philanthropy embodies the power of entrepreneurship to make a positive impact on society.
Gifford’s passion for giving back led her to serve as a board member of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, where she actively contributes to the fight against breast cancer. Leslie is also a sought-after speaker, engaging audiences with her experiences as a business leader and advocate for women’s health. Gifford has been a champion of mental health advocacy as well, partnering with Evolve Together and Silence the Shame. Gifford has spoken at the LEAP Foundation, UCLA, and more.
Brandon Wolf
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LGBTQ Civil Rights advocate and nationally-recognized gun safety activist Brandon Wolf is a dynamic public speaker with a powerful personal story of community, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.
On June 12th, 2016, life changed for Brandon. He crouched in a bathroom while a gunman opened fire at Orlando’s Pulse Nightclub, killing his best friends, Drew Leinonen & Juan Guerrero, and 47 others. Rather than be swallowed by the anger and fear of tragedy, Brandon set out to honor the victims’ legacies with action. In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Brandon co-founded The Dru Project, a nonprofit organization that works to empower youth and provide future leaders in the LGBTQ community funding for higher education. To date, the organization has given over $100,000 in college scholarships to rising leaders. He also became an outspoken activist in the gun violence prevention movement, partnering with March For Our Lives, Everytown, Giffords, and others to demand legislative solutions to the epidemic. In 2019, he became the first survivor of the tragedy at Pulse Nightclub to testify before Congress.
A powerful public speaker, Brandon serves as the Press Secretary for Equality Florida, the state's LGBTQ civil rights organization. Wolf is a frequent guest on MSNBC (The Reid Out & American Voices), CNN, and in print publications (CNN.com, USA Today, Newsweek, Teen Vogue, Washington Post, The Advocate, Out Magazine) weaving his story into calls to action. He has been recognized by HuffPost as one of “30 modern-day LGBTQ pioneers” and Business Equality Magazine as one of 40 LGBTQ Leaders Under 40. Brandon's debut book, A Place For Us, is an unforgettable memoir of getting through the darkest times with healing, hope, and resistance. “With our backs against the wall,” he writes, “we find a way out together.”
Amy Bloom
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New York Times bestselling author and psychotherapist Amy Bloom has been described by The New Yorker as getting “more meaning into individual sentences than most authors manage in whole books.” Bloom is the author of the NYT bestselling novels White Houses, Lucky Us, and Away, and Love Invents Us, a National Book Award Finalist. She has written the critically acclaimed short story collections Where the God of Love Hangs Out, Come to Me, a National Book Award nominee, and A Blind Man Can See How Much I Love You, a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award. Her most recent book, the widely acclaimed New York Times bestselling memoir In Love, has been described as "the most heartbreaking, honest and funniest" writing about life, offering profound insights about grief, loss, and cultivating resilience.
Bloom’s work has appeared on numerous “Best of the Year” lists including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Boston Globe, The Washington Post, Financial Times, Real Simple, and O: The Oprah Magazine. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic, The London Times, The Guardian, and from Shanghai to Seville. Her work has been translated into 18 languages. A practicing psychotherapist for four decades, Bloom’s first book of nonfiction, Normal, is a staple of university sociology and biology classes. From the intersection of her expertise as a writer and psychotherapist, Bloom offers hilarious and compelling takeaways about building community, creating (and surviving!) change, balancing home and work, and mastering effective communication, that make an impact on people of all kinds, from diverse backgrounds, bringing together an unusually wide audience.
Maha Bodhi, M.A.
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After surviving a brutal upbringing of being enslaved as a female in Yemen, forced into arranged marriage twice, surviving multiple death threatening situations, and two civil wars before arriving in the U.S., Maha Bodhi, M.A. found her freedom and true self through the practice of ancient yogic and modern neuroplasticity techniques. She is a living example of the hero's journey and is dedicating her entire life to spreading the transformational techniques that saved her life.
Bodhi is currently in the final stages of writing her book, which is nothing short of a hero's journey from being enslaved as a female in Yemen to becoming the successful female entrepreneur that she is today. The book is designed to inspire and guide people in their own transformational journey. She has worked with many Fortune 500 companies including Google, DirecTV, CoreLogic, Mattel, AT&T, Fandango, Comcast, and Albertsons, to name a few.
Maha Bodhi, M.A. proves what modern neuroscience is teaching us: that the path to courage and success arrives by embracing fear and the unknown, not by avoiding them. If there was ever a real life example of this, it is the story of Maha Bodhi, M.A. In her unrelenting pursuits of a life of freedom and joy, Maha has taught herself how to tap into that elusive Holy Grail of human existence, the ability to rewire one’s own brain in order to continually do better and achieve unparalleled levels of success, and she is now dedicating her entire life to train women leaders to do the same. Maha has a master’s degree in Organizational Behavior, and resides in Malibu, CA.
Marissa Meizz
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Marissa Meizz is the creator of No More Lonely Friends, a community she built for strangers to make friends around the world in a safe space. She found that because of Covid, people are struggling to reconnect with others, and this safe space community they’ve built inspires people to venture out of their comfort zone and meet someone new. This can lead to a more positive world by encouraging others to be kind and using social media for good and positive outlooks. Individuals can make a difference, and when positive and brave messages go viral on social, the impact is real, immediate, and life-changing. Marissa will share her journey and insight into launching No More Lonely Friends - a friendship movement with a global reach - and how to look at the world and life in a more positive outlook.
Tara Schuster
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Tara Schuster is a bestselling author, playwright, and accomplished television executive. Schuster served as Vice President of Talent and Development at Comedy Central where she was the Executive in Charge of the Emmy® and Peabody Award-winning Key & Peele, the Emmy® Award winning @Midnight, and Lights Out with David Spade. For her work on Key & Peele, Jordan Peele remarked that Schuster is “ahead of her time...she sees the future a little bit.” Her book, Buy Yourself The F*cking Lilies, debuted as the #1 New Release in Humor Essays and Self-Help on both Audible and Kindle. It was a finalist for Goodreads Best Nonfiction Book of 2020 and has been chosen by InStyle, Real Simple, People Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BuzzFeed, Goop, and many others as a must read. It has sold over 130,000 copies and is translated into five languages.
Sam Bloom
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Sam Bloom is a two-time World Para Surfing champion, global keynote speaker, bestselling author and inspiration behind the #1 Australian box-office and international global Netflix hit movie Penguin Bloom starring Naomi Watts as Sam.
The movie is adapted from the international bestselling book, Penguin Bloom: The Odd Little Bird Who Saved a Family. Published in 13 languages, Penguin Bloom is a collaboration between Sam’s husband Cameron, a professional photographer, and New York Times bestselling author Bradley Trevor Greive. A second book, Sam Bloom: Heartache & Birdsong, picks up the story where Penguin Bloom ended, and shares Sam’s personal perspective on facing and overcoming adversity.
Jarring, beautiful, and real, Sam’s presentations are unlike anything your audience has seen or heard before. A refreshingly honest and deeply engaging speaker, Sam takes you on an intimate, visual journey against the backdrop of her husband Cameron’s stunning video and imagery, leaving audiences deeply moved and truly inspired.
Sam shares the extraordinary highs and painful lows of life before, during and after the accident that changed her life forever, leading us on the journey back from the edge of a deep depression that almost claimed her life.
Purposeful and raw, Sam speaks from the heart and delivers her powerful message with clarity and purpose, reminding her audience that we must make the best of the present as we never know what tomorrow will bring.
Loung Ung
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Loung Ung was only 5 years old when the Khmer Rouge soldiers stormed into her native city of Phnom Penh. Four years later, in one of the bloodiest episodes of the 20th century, some two million Cambodians – out of a population of seven million – had died at the hands of the infamous Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge regime. Among the victims were both of Loung’s parents, two sisters, and 20 other relatives. In 1980, Loung, her older brother Meng and his wife, escaped by boat to Thailand, where they spent five months in a refugee camp before relocating to the United States in Vermont.
Loung Ung is now a bestselling author, activist, and co-screenplay writer of First They Killed My Father, the critically acclaimed 2017 Netflix Original Movie produced and directed by Angelina Jolie, based on Ung's bestselling memoir, now streaming on Netflix in 190 countries. On November 5, 2017 with the start of the awards season, the film received the “Hollywood Foreign Language Film Award" at the Hollywood Film Awards.
Loung’s bestselling memoir, First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers, was a 2001 recipient of the Asian/Pacific American Librarians’ Association award for Excellence in Adult Non-fiction Literature, is widely taught in high schools and universities across the U.S. and internationally, and has been translated into 15 languages, including Khmer, German, Dutch, Norwegian, Danish, French, Spanish, Italian, and Japanese.
Since 1995, Loung has made over thirty trips back to Cambodia and has devoted herself to helping her native land heal from the traumas of war. She has worked as an activist to end violence against women, child soldiers, and the Campaign for a Landmine Free World, serving as its spokesperson from 1997-2005 before leaving to focus more on her writing and restaurant business. In 2013, Loung expanded her activism reach as one of the writers for Girl Rising, a groundbreaking documentary film directed by Academy Award nominee Richard Robbins.
The World Economic Forum selected Loung as one of the “100 Global Youth Leaders of Tomorrow.” Among the publications, television and radio shows she has been featured on are The New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, People Magazine, CNN, Nightline, the Diane Rheme Show, Fresh Air with Terry Gross, and The Today Show, among others. In addition, she has been the subject of documentary films broadcast by German ARTE, Japanese NHK, and the New England Cable Network (NECN).
Molly Birkholm
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Molly Birkholm is a speaker, consultant, published author, international show host, teacher trainer, and trauma educator. Molly’s stress management programs, resilience training, and trauma treatment programs are used by leaders and top organizations around the world, including the US Department of Defense, McKinsey & Company, and the Young Presidents' Organization.
She is the co-founder of Warriors at Ease, which has trained over 2000 teachers and brought yoga and meditation to 65 military bases and VA Centers. She helped pioneer evidence-based yoga and meditation programs for PTSD in the military and other communities affected by trauma, including human trafficking survivors and homeless communities. She is also an iRest Yoga Nidra teacher trainer. Molly teaches trainings and retreats around the world and also online on The Great Courses and as a Featured Teacher & the host of the Women’s Empowerment Initiative on Yoga International.
Emma Seppala
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Through her talks, writing, television appearances and book, EMMA SEPPÄLÄ has now inspired 1000s of people to live happier and more compassionate lives. A graduate of Yale, Columbia and Stanford, Seppälä is an expert at translating the science of happiness and success to any audience. Passionate about sharing the science of what makes us thrive, Seppälä founded the popular news site Fulfillmentdaily.com. She has dedicated part of her research career to helping veterans overcome trauma and her research is featured in documentary film Free the Mind. Her research has also been featured in the New York Times, ABC News, Forbes, The Boston Globe, U.S. News & World Report, The Huffington Post, Inc., and Fast Company. She has appeared on Good Morning America, ABC News and FOX News and a number of other documentary films. She is a frequent contributor to Psychology Today and Harvard Business Review.Her book The Happiness Track: How to Apply the Science of Happiness to Accelerate Your Success is currently being translated into a dozen foreign languages. Seppälä is fluent in English, German and French.
Nataly Kogan
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A leading expert on leadership and thriving, Nataly Kogan is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and entrepreneur whose superpower is helping people to reinvent their stories and unlock their best, thriving selves.
Nataly immigrated to the US as a refugee from the former Soviet Union when she was 13 years old. Starting her American life in the projects and on welfare, she learned English by watching “Who’s the Boss?” on repeat.
She went on to reach the highest levels of career success at McKinsey and Microsoft, as a Managing Director at a venture capital fund, and as founder or executive at 5 startups and tech companies.
But after years of chasing a non-existent state of nirvana, Nataly suffered a debilitating burnout that led her to find a new way to live and work. Nataly founded Happier Inc., whose gratitude-sharing mobile app, courses, Happier @ Work, and leadership programs have helped more than a million people lead more fulfilling lives.
She is a sought-after international keynote speaker and has appeared in hundreds of media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and TIME.
Nataly is the author of Happier Now, The Awesome Human Project, and The Awesome Human Journal, and hosts The Awesome Human Podcast, which people call their “best-self hour.”
Nataly began painting when she turned 40 and is a self-taught abstract artist. She is passionate about the power of art to fuel our wellbeing and often integrates it in her speaking and mentorship work.
She loves yellow, overuses the word “awesome”, and is the funniest person in her family. (Just ask her husband and daughter, her favorite awesome humans.)
For more, visit natalykogan.com.
Ashley Rhodes-Courter
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Ashley Rhodes-Courter is a child welfare activist and New York Times bestselling author of Three Little Words, a memoir based on her childhood in Florida's fostercare system. Since the age of 14, Ashley has advocated for the half-million children still in foster care in America by giving speeches throughout the U.S. and abroad. Ashley has turned her pain into power and she has a passion to share her story with those who have experienced adversity. She strives to encourage education, compassion, community involvement, and positive outcomes for youth and families.
Internationally recognized, Ashley has been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Nightline, Nancy Grace, ABC Primetime, Montel Williams, and other national media outlets. She has spoken on Capitol Hill, has been invited to the White House, and has taught at numerous colleges and conferences for elected officials, judges, social workers, policy makers, and families.
Shawn Achor
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Shawn Achor is the New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Advantage and Big Potential. Shawn graduated magna cum laude from Harvard and earned a Masters from Harvard Divinity School in Christian and Buddhist ethics. After spending 12 years at Harvard, Shawn traveled to 50 countries studying how to create an interconnected approach to potential and happiness. He has now worked with over a third of the Fortune 100 companies, and at places like NASA, the NFL, and the Pentagon. Shawn has battle-tested his research in high-challenge environments from working with all the public schools in Flint Michigan, to six battalions of Marines at Camp Pendleton, to government leaders at Camp David, to students in a shantytown in Soweto South Africa, to hospitals in the wake of a mass shooting in Orlando and the Boston bombing. In every place, Shawn has found the optimism can be increased through mindset and behavioral change, and that by creating an interconnected approach to happiness and success, we shine brighter together. Shawn’s research made the cover of Harvard Business Review, his TED talk is one of the most popular of all time with over 20 million views, and his lecture airing on PBS has been seen by millions.
Patrick Kennedy
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Representative Patrick Kennedy served 16 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, and is predominantly known as author and lead sponsor of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. This dramatic piece of legislation provides tens of millions of Americans who were previously denied care with access to mental health treatment. After leaving congress in 2010, Rep. Kennedy co-founded One Mind, a national coalition seeking new treatments and cures for neurologic and psychiatric diseases of the brain afflicting one in every three Americans. He is also involved in setting policy recommendations for Smart Approaches to Marijuana, as part of a bipartisan collection of professionals to educate based on science, health, mental wellness and public safety.
As one of the world’s leading mental health advocates, Rep. Kennedy speaks on topics such as eliminating the stigma of mental illness, brain research, the impact of public policy on our healthcare system, and many other mental health and substance abuse issues.
Laurie Dhue
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Laurie Dhue is a Certified Recovery Specialist providing resources and support for individuals and families dealing with the disease of addiction.
Prior to her work in the recovery field, Dhue enjoyed a distinguished career as an award-winning national news anchor who hosted shows on all three major cable news networks: CNN, MSNBC and Fox News Channel. She most recently served as lead news anchor for The Blaze TV. Her 25 years in news has included interviews with numerous world leaders, politicians, entertainers and prominent newsmakers as well as extensive reporting from the Middle East during the War on Terror.
Dhue has had the distinct honor or speaking at the White House in 2014 and 2017 on behalf of ONDCP. She was also a featured speaker at the inaugural UNITE to Face Addiction national rally in Washington, DC in 2015. Dhue appeared in the award-winning 2013 documentary “The Anonymous People” and the 2017 documentary “Reversing the Stigma”, produced in conjunction with OASAS (New York State’s Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse).
One of the nation’s leading recovery advocates, Dhue is in long-term recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction. She has worked closely with the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Faces and Voices of Recovery (FAVOR) and the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence (NCADD). Dhue has spoken on behalf of many national recovery organizations including the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation and the Caron Foundation. She travels coast-to-coast giving speeches, emceeing events and moderating panel discussions, as well as offering commentary in national and international media.
Tipper Gore
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Advocate, activist, artist and philanthropist, Tipper Gore brings her warmth and kindness to communities around the globe. She has dedicated her life to giving voice to parents, children and families, those with mental health challenges, the homeless, and so many more.