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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peter Crone is often described as the "Mind Architect," known for his work in mental freedom, peak performance, and personal transformation. His approach focuses on rewiring subconscious patterns, breaking free from limiting beliefs, and cultivating a mindset of empowerment and possibility.

Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, and spiritual principles, Crone helps individuals—including elite athletes, high-performing executives, and everyday people—liberate themselves from self-imposed limitations and live with greater clarity, purpose, and fulfillment. His philosophy revolves around shifting one’s relationship with stress, fear, and past conditioning to unlock true freedom and potential.

Crone’s work has resonated widely due to his ability to blend deep insight, practical wisdom, and a compassionate yet direct approach to personal transformation. Whether speaking on stage, coaching clients, or appearing on podcasts, his message is about breaking free from mental constraints and stepping into the limitless nature of human potential.

Crone has worked with elite executives and groups such as YPO, Twitter, and FedEx. He is often invited as a headlining speaker or panelist to conferences such as Aubrey Marcus'sFit for Service Summit, Dave Asprey's Biohacking Conference, the GAIA HEAL Conference and more, where his talks routinely fill every seat in the room. Twitter "highly recommend[s] that all companies who want to bring mindfulness and mental fitness into their companies leverage Peter as an advisor and facilitator for their leaders and teams." For FedEx, he "directed motivational discussions about being our best self and this has accelerated our growth," and CBS commended Peter to "help anyone have a better, happier, and healthier life."

From UCSB Gaucho to UCLA Head Coach – A Journey of Passion and Leadership

Cori Close ’93 has woven basketball into every part of her life, from her days as a student-athlete at UC Santa Barbara to her current role as head coach of UCLA Women’s Basketball. Close was named The Michael Price Family UCLA Women’s Head Basketball Coach on April 21, 2011, and is the winningest coach in UCLA Women’s Basketball history with 305 wins, after surpassing Billie Moore’s record of 296 wins. She was named the 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year and AP Coach of the Year after leading UCLA to their first-ever Final Four appearance and Big 10 championship in the 2024-2025 season, their first conference tournament title since 2016. Her dedication on the court set the stage for a 30-year coaching career that has shaped the lives of countless athletes. With years of coaching experience, Close offers insights on building high-performing teams, fostering resilience, and developing a winning mindset. 

As a Gaucho, she embraced the work-hard, play-hard mentality, balancing academics, athletics, and beachside moments. Close’s journey began immediately after graduation when she joined UCLA as an assistant coach (1993-1995). She then returned to UCSB for nine seasons, helping build a competitive program before spending seven years at Florida State. In 2011, she returned to UCLA as head coach, where she led the Bruins to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances while prioritizing player development and mentorship. While winning championships and coaching NCAA Tournament games has been rewarding, Close finds the most fulfillment in mentoring young women, watching them grow, graduate, and face life’s challenges beyond basketball. Close's talks emphasize personal and professional growth, sharing strategies on how to push past limits, embrace challenges, and develop self-discipline. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Championship Coach, Trailblazer, and Program Builder

A veteran of 19 NCAA Tournaments and a former Houston Rockets coach, Kelvin Sampson has cemented himself as one of the most accomplished and respected figures in college basketball. Since taking over as head coach of the University of Houston Men’s Basketball program in 2014, Sampson has transformed the Cougars into a national powerhouse, leading them to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, a 2021 Final Four berth, and multiple conference championships. His coaching career is defined by his ability to rebuild programs, develop NBA-caliber talent, and instill a winning culture.

Sampson is a proud member of the Lumbee Native American Tribe, making history as one of the most successful Native American coaches in the sport. His roots in Pembroke, North Carolina, a community deeply tied to Lumbee traditions, have shaped his relentless work ethic, leadership style, and deep commitment to mentorship. His journey from a small-town upbringing to leading some of the nation's top programs is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and coaches from underrepresented backgrounds. A trailblazer in basketball, Sampson has shattered barriers for Native Americans in the coaching ranks, demonstrating that success comes from perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering belief in one's abilities. His achievements have made him an influential role model, particularly for Indigenous youth who see him as proof that they, too, can reach the highest levels of competition.

With over 35 years of coaching experience and a career record of 764-349, Sampson is one of only 15 coaches in NCAA history to lead four different programs to the NCAA Tournament and one of just 16 to take multiple schools to the Final Four. He has been named National Coach of the Year 12 times and has earned eight conference Coach of the Year awards across five leagues. Before Houston, Sampson led Oklahoma to the 2002 Final Four, coached Indiana to back-to-back 20-win seasons, and spent six seasons in the NBA as an assistant with the Houston Rockets and Milwaukee Bucks. His ability to adapt, evolve, and build winning teams at every level speaks to his coaching brilliance.

Beyond the wins, Sampson is a leader who invests in his players' futures, ensuring they succeed both on and off the court. His teams have excelled academically, with numerous players earning degrees, and many of his former athletes have gone on to have successful careers in the NBA and beyond. His impact extends into the community, where he leads service initiatives such as providing meals for local families, supporting Special Olympics events, and mentoring young athletes. His leadership philosophy emphasizes character, discipline, and giving back, making him more than just a coach—he is a mentor, role model, and difference-maker in the lives of his players and those around him.

Sampson’s career is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of strong leadership. From his Native American roots to his success on the national stage, he has consistently elevated every program he has touched while inspiring the next generation of coaches and players. With his continued success at Houston, Sampson remains one of the most influential and respected minds in college basketball today.

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.

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.

Former Chairman and CEO of CNN, author, and veteran executive producer Chris Licht is a titan of the television landscape. Licht joined CNN after serving in senior, transformational positions at CBS, CBS News, and MSNBC. Licht previously served as Executive Vice President of Special Programming at CBS and Executive Producer and Showrunner for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert – the most-watched show in late night television. Licht was also an Executive Producer on Stephen Colbert Presents Tooning Out the News on Paramount+. Prior to that, he served as Executive Producer of CBS’ critically acclaimed morning news program, CBS This Morning, which became the network’s most successful morning newscast in more than two decades. was the co-creator and original executive producer of MSNBC’s Morning Joe and was at the helm as the show garnered critical acclaim for its interviews with newsmakers and perspective on the top news stories. Drawing on his depth of experience, Licht shares key insights about building resilient teams, change management, and leading transformative large-scale organizations by leaning into innovation and empathy.

Licht has received numerous honors for his work. During his tenure as executive producer, CBS This Morning earned a prestigious Peabody Award, two News and Documentary Emmys, and one Daytime Emmy. Also, the broadcast and Licht were honored with an Alfred I. DuPont-Columbia Award as part of CBS News’ division-wide coverage of the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Licht’s first book, What I Learned When I Almost Died, tells the story of what happened after a near-deadly brain hemorrhage left Chris in a hospital bed over eight long days to think about how his life had almost been cut short. With warmth and candor, Licht shares the lessons he learned overcoming adversity, surviving a health crisis, and creating more balance in his life in motivational talks.

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

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

Chris Appleton, celebrity hairstylist and visionary behind iconic looks for stars like Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, and Ariana Grande, is redefining beauty standards and inspiring creativity on a global scale. He is a regular contributor on The Today Show, a lifestyle contributor for The Drew Barrymore Show, and a correspondent for E! Red Carpet events including the Met Gala. He was recently invited by Anna Wintour to be a contributor for VOGUE across VOGUE social platforms and their digital app. Dubbed a “Hair Star” by Vogue UK, Appleton's work has been showcased on covers and major features for top-tier magazines across the globe, including VOGUE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vanity Fair. With a career marked by innovation, artistry, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence, Appleton has become a trusted name in fashion and beauty. Appleton speaks on his self-made success, embracing opportunity, and the joys of following your passion. 

As an award-winning stylist and industry trailblazer, Appleton's unique approach to personal branding, resilience, and creative expression resonates far beyond the salon chair. Whether sharing the story of his success through perseverance, creativity, and risk-taking, inspiring audiences to turn perceived challenges into strengths, or offering transformative lessons in creativity and confidence, Chris inspires audiences to embrace their unique style and harness their full potential.

Tracee Ellis Ross is an award-winning actress, producer, founder, and CEO.  

For eight seasons, Ross starred in ABC’s SAG and Critics Choice Award-nominated and Emmy, Golden Globe, NAACP Image Award, and Peabody-winning comedy series “black-ish.”  She also starred in the Emmy and GLAAD Award-nominated and NAACP Image Award-winning series “Girlfriends” for eight seasons. Ross has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including a Golden Globe Award, nine NAACP Image Awards, and the 2020 People’s Choice Awards “Fashion Icon Award.” She was also named a Disney Legend for making an extraordinary contribution to The Walt Disney Company. 

Ross is the owner, founder, and co-CEO of PATTERN Beauty, the global multi-million dollar brand she created for the curly, coily & tight-textured community in 2019. PATTERN is the #1 BIPOC brand and #2 curl brand sold at ULTA Beauty. PATTERN is also sold at Sephora, Nordstrom, Target, Macy’s, and Amazon, in the US; Sephora in Canada; and Boots, Look Fantastic and Cult Beauty in the UK. With PATTERN, Ross is changing the paradigm of how the textured hair community is marketed to and supported. The company's content and messaging are a celebration of Black beauty & joy. PATTERN proudly supports organizations and programs that empower women and people of color. 

Ross will next be seen in season 7 of the critically acclaimed Netflix series “Black Mirror.” In addition to Ross, the new season also features Paul Giamatti, Jesse Plemons, Rashida Jones, Chris O’Dowd and Emma Corrin, among other returning cast favorites. The new season will stream on April 10th. 

Ross is currently in post-production on her Roku original series “Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross.” The series will chronicle Ross as she meticulously, laboriously, and sometimes ridiculously prepares for and travels solo to spectacular locations. Ross will serve as an Executive Producer on the docu-series under her banner Joy Mill Entertainment. Joy Mill Entertainment has a deal with 20^th and is dedicated to telling joyful, fun, and grounded stories exploring how we see ourselves and how we connect to one another. “Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross” will premiere later this year. 

Ross recently wrapped production on “Blow The Horn,” an indie psychological drama from Nacho Arenas. The project is an adaptation of “Bajo Terapia,” the acclaimed Argentinian play by Matias del Federico, which has previously been adapted by Spanish filmmaker Gerado Herrero. Others in the cast include Lake Bell, Wrenn Schmidt, Dallas Roberts, Joshua Boone and Ken Leung. In addition to starring in the film, Ross also serves as an Executive Producer. 

Ross was last seen opposite Jeffrey Wright in the Oscar-winning drama “American Fiction,” directed by Cord Jefferson. It was nominated for Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Independent Spirit Awards, and was named one of AFI’s movies of the year. Last December, Ross was seen starring opposite Eddie Murphy in Amazon’s holiday film, “Candy Cane Lane.” The film became the most-watched Amazon movie debut in the U.S. and among the top 10 worldwide film debuts ever on the service.  

Earlier this year, Ross starred in the thriller “Cold Copy” and is currently lending her voice to Amazon’s animated comedy “The Second Best Hospital in The Galaxy,” alongside Keke Palmer, Kieran Culkin, Maya Rudolph, and Natasha Lyonne. 

Ross advocates for joy, self-acceptance, inclusivity, and equity. In 2017, Ross gave a powerful speech about claiming your own life at Glamour’s Women of the Year Summit that went viral. In 2018, Ross opened the TED Conference, the first Black woman to do so, with a speech about the wisdom of women’s fury. 

In 2022, Ross was given the “Racial Justice Trailblazer” Award by The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law for her demonstrated commitment to racial and social justice and upholding values that promote an inclusive democracy. She has also moderated stops on both of Michelle Obama’s book tours. Ross recently received a 2023 Webby Special Achievement Award for her ingenious use of the Internet to share multidimensional stories of belonging, increasing Black representation in the beauty industry, and serving as a constant, positive force on the Internet, and was named a 2023 Cosmetic Executive Women Female Founder honoree. She was recently honored with the Trailblazer Award by 15 Percent Pledge, as a 2024 CNBC Changemaker, and was given the 2024 Achievement Award for Excellence in the Arts by the National Museum of Women in the Arts for being a leader in the entertainment industry and a passionate advocate for gender equity. 

Ross received honorary Doctorate degrees from Spelman College in 2023 and Brown University, her alma mater, in 2015. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A celebrated Food Network Star, chef, and entrepreneur, Damaris Phillips brings an irresistible blend of warmth, humor, and culinary expertise to the stage. Phillips is a speaker who inspires others to live their best, most fulfilling lives. Known for her modern takes on Southern comfort food, Damaris has become a Food Network favorite, hosting shows like Outrageous Pumpkins and Summer Baking Championship, and appearing as a judge on Beat Bobby Flay and Chopped. She’s passionate about health, wellness, and the power of food to bring people together. With a passion for innovation, diversity, and mentorship in the culinary world, she offers inspiring insights on breaking barriers, building a personal brand, and reimagining food as a storytelling tool.

A champion for female entrepreneurship, Phillips co-founded Bluegrass Supper Club, a catering company that celebrates Kentucky’s local farmers, and Pixilation Productions, a media company specializing in social media marketing. Through Pixilation, Phillips helps brands build their digital presence and engage with audiences in creative ways, empowering women in the media and marketing space.

Damaris also co-hosts the podcast That’s Fun with Nikki Dinki, where they explore how to embrace more joy and adventure in your 40s. Her message is simple: live with intention, cultivate meaningful connections, and make room for fun.

As a guest speaker, Phillips brings a refreshing perspective on health, business, and personal growth, offering actionable advice on entrepreneurship, building strong relationships, and living a vibrant, purposeful life.

Actor and filmmaker Kevin Costner’s esteemed career has been critically recognized with two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and a Primetime Emmy Award. With past roles across comedy, action, and drama, most movie lovers have seen Costner’s work. He has appeared in box-office hits including Silverado, No Way Out, Bull Durham, JFK, The Untouchables, Field of Dreams, The Bodyguard, and Wyatt Earp, among many others. In addition, he starred in and executive produced the Paramount Network’s hit-drama, Yellowstone, a role for which he received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Drama. Costner’s exceptional filmmaking abilities were showcased in Dances with Wolves, which he produced, directed and starred in, and which won seven Academy Awards including “Best Picture” and “Best Director.” Costner also produced and co-authored the New York Times bestselling adventure novel The Explorers Guild. Costner captivates audiences not only as a legendary figure in the entertainment industry but as a remarkable storyteller. Whether discussing his experiences in film, the demands of creativity, or the enduring value of hard work, Costner leaves audiences entertained, inspired, and deeply connected to his story.

When Costner is not working on films, he sings lead vocals and plays lead guitar in his band, Modern West, and can be seen playing venues across the country. The band’s song "The Angels Came Down" was adopted by the Gold Star Moms and Gold Star Wives organizations, which support the mothers, wives, and families of fallen soldiers. Costner also fundraises for first responders through hosting appearances and charity concerts.

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.

From Underdog to National Champion: The Meteoric Rise of Coach Todd Golden

In just three seasons, Todd Golden has transformed Florida Gators basketball—rekindling championship glory and rewriting the record books. At only 39 years old, Golden led Florida to an extraordinary 36–4 season and the 2025 National Championship, becoming the youngest head coach in over four decades to achieve college basketball’s ultimate prize.

Golden took the reins in 2022 after turning heads at the University of San Francisco, where he ended a decades-long drought by earning the Dons their first NCAA Tournament bid since 1998. His innovative coaching style and winning mentality quickly followed him to Gainesville.

In his first season at UF, he did what no Florida coach had done before—earning a postseason berth and multiple top-25 wins right out of the gate, including a landmark upset over #2 Tennessee. That momentum only built as Golden guided the Gators back to the NCAA Tournament in 2024, tallying 24 wins—their highest since 2017—and a run to the SEC Championship game.

Now, just a few short years into his Florida tenure, Todd Golden has delivered not just a new era, but a golden one, making him one of the most exciting and respected young leaders in college sports today

As a third-generation Montana farmer, Tester doesn’t just talk about rural America—he lives it. His stories about growing up on his family’s farm, working with his hands, and navigating the changing landscape of American agriculture make him a powerful voice on perseverance, self-reliance, and the importance of small-town values in a fast-changing world. From butchering meat on his farm to chairing the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Tester’s journey embodies the promise of hard work and dedication. His speeches remind audiences that leadership doesn’t come from privilege but from persistence, grit, and the willingness to stand up for what’s right. Whether he’s telling a story about fixing a fence in a Montana snowstorm or wrangling votes in the Senate, Tester’s storytelling is infused with humor, honesty, and no-nonsense wisdom. He connects with audiences by speaking plainly, making complex issues feel personal, and leaving listeners with memorable takeaways they can apply to their own lives.

Senator Tester is more than just a politician—he’s a storyteller who embodies the resilience, determination, and integrity that audiences crave. Whether speaking to corporate leaders, educators, or community advocates, his stories inspire action, remind us of our shared humanity, and prove that leadership is about rolling up your sleeves and getting to work. Known for his authenticity, ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and unwavering focus on results, Senator Tester exemplifies the values of America’s heartland while addressing the complex challenges facing the nation. His straightforward, no-nonsense approach to governance, paired with his ability to bridge divides, makes him a compelling speaker for any organization looking to inspire, educate, and foster meaningful dialogue. Whether protecting the land for future generations, advocating for responsible governance, or finding common ground on divisive issues, Senator Tester remains a powerful voice for practical, principled leadership.