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Workshops

WORKSHOPS ADDED DAILY

DAY ONE – Workshops

NOVEMBER 19, 2024

Lacy (LJ) McMullen Jr, CareerSource Capital Region

Workshop: “Staying Focused and Engaged: Tips on Time Management”
Tuesday, November 19 | 10am-11am
ImapctWeek_Sponsors_CareerSource

In this interactive workshop, participants will explore essential time management skills to help stay on track with tasks, projects, and long-term goals. Learn practical tools and techniques to boost productivity, balance priorities, and maintain focus in today’s fast-paced work environment. We’ll also tackle one of the biggest challenges in time management—procrastination—often referred to as the “Thief of Time.” Discover strategies to overcome procrastination and stay engaged, ensuring consistent progress toward your career development goals.

Lacy, known as LJ, is a dynamic leader in strategic marketing, relationship building, and financial literacy. He excels at fostering relationships to meet business objectives, resolving accounts, and generating content to drive engagement. With experience in public speaking, LJ regularly teaches on career development, wealth creation, financial literacy, and personal branding at events and on podcasts. Passionate about mentoring, LJ enjoys sharing his knowledge to help others succeed in both their careers and financial journeys.

Doug Luciani, First Commerce Credit Union

Workshop: “Financial Wellness for a Multi-Generational Workforce: Empowering Entrepreneurs and Their Teams for the Future”
Tuesday, November 19 | 10am-11am

This session addresses how entrepreneurs can foster financial literacy for themselves and promote financial wellness among their multi-generational workforce, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z. Attendees will gain insights into the unique financial challenges each generation faces and learn actionable strategies for implementing effective financial wellness programs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Financial Literacy for Leaders: Boost financial decision-making and personal well-being.
  • Reducing Financial Stress: Discover how financial health can improve employee performance and retention.
  • Generational Goals: Address the diverse financial priorities and challenges of each generation.
  • Program Implementation: Steps for building a supportive financial wellness culture that benefits both the organization and its employees.

Equip your team with tools for financial well-being and build a workplace where employees thrive across generations

Doug’s career and entrepreneurial path began at the age of 12, when he launched a lawn-cutting business.  His exit plan … earn enough money to buy a pair of parachute pants and a Members Only jacket. 
 
Since then, he has launched and successfully exited two more businesses, along with building a resume and expertise in brand strategy, business development and new product development across multiple industries. 
 
In his current role as Director of Strategic Initiatives and Innovation at First Commerce Credit Union, Doug has embraced the role of mentor or trusted thought partner, depending on your generational perspective. His focus is helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals and objectives through financial empowerment and strategic guidance.
 

Amy & Melissa, Tally Print Studio

Workshop: “Screen Printing Workshop: Brand Merchandising and Visibility”
Tuesday, November 19 | 11am-1pm

Tally Print Studio will engage participants in a hands-on screen printing workshop, while fostering collaboration and idea exchange. During the workshop, we will cover the fundamental techniques of the screen printing process, and how to foster strategies for brand visibility and marketing. Participants will leave with their own prints and a richer understanding of how to enhance brand recognition.  Future workshop opportunities available for those interested in creating personalized merchandise as a group-building experience. No prior experience is needed, and all materials are provided.

Tally Print Studio was co-founded in 2023 by Amy Alonso and Melissa Gonzalez-Lopez, two FSU Studio Art alumni interested in creating a printmaking space accessible to the community. Prior to the studio’s inception, Alonso and Gonzalez-Lopez acquired experience teaching fine art in a variety of settings and exhibited work internationally.

Jamie D. Lawerence, The First Bank

Workshop: “Getting Bank Ready – Preparing for Your Commercial Loan”
Tuesday, November 19 | 11am-12pm

This hands-on workshop dives deep into what it takes to secure commercial financing. Jamie Lawrence will guide participants through the foundational steps banks require, including crafting a compelling business plan, preparing financial statements, and understanding the credit decision-making process. Through interactive activities and real-world insights, attendees will explore the various types of loans and financing options available, helping them assess which is best suited to their business needs.

Participants will leave with:

  • A checklist of essential documentation needed for commercial loan applications
  • Tips for strengthening business plans and financial statements
  • An understanding of different commercial loan types and how to select the right option for business growth

Perfect for entrepreneurs and business owners aiming to become bank-ready and gain confidence in their financing journey.

Jamie Lawrence is Vice President/ Market Lead at the First Bank in Thomasville, Ga.  Jamie serves clients throughout Georgia and North Florida. Previously positions prior to the The First Bank include VP Commercial Lending at TC Federal Bank and Retail Market Manager for Synovus Bank. Earlie in Jamie’s career he worked for Teramore Development in real estate acquisitions for Dollar General, Sales and Marketing for John Deer, Owner/Operator of a restaurant, elected City Council Member for the City of Camilla, and restaurant development for Wet Willie’s. His first passion was boating as an active captain for 15 years he has worked in and out of the sport fishing and yacht charter industry and still utilizes his license when possible. Jamie is a Camilla, Ga. native, and a 2006 graduate of Georgia Southern University.  He and his wife, Ashley who is employed as a sales manager for Flowers Foods, have a 3-year-old daughter, Scottie Clare.  Jamie serves on the Never Lost Board (CASA) as finance chair, Thomasville Rotary Club, and Thomasville First United Methodist Church Finance Committee.

Christina Lynch, CEO Trydent Consulting

Workshop: “Balancing Empathy and Accountability as a Consultant”
Tuesday, November 19 | 1pm-2pm

This workshop is tailored for consultants looking to enhance their interpersonal skills and navigate the delicate balance between understanding clients’ needs and holding them accountable for achieving results. Participants in this workshop will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to navigate the nuanced landscape of consulting, inclusive of the client’s perspective and challenges.
Learning Objectives
1. Understand how empathetic communication fosters trust and collaboration.
2. Learn effective techniques for setting clear and achievable client expectations that align with project goals.
3. Master the art of delivering constructive feedback with empathy.
4. Learn techniques to address conflicts while maintaining a positive client relationship.

Christina Lynch is the Chief Executive Officer of Trydent Consulting and has worked in and with over 200 businesses in a wide range of industries. Her passion is assisting and elevating small businesses through her expertise in accounting, human resources, and program management. She has a notable track record for utilizing a flexible and non-judgmental approach with her clients and partners that has promoted the success of positive and profitable business affairs for every party involved.

 

She received her Master’s degree in Human Resources and Employment Relations from Penn State University. She received her Bachelor’s degrees in Accounting, Finance, and Human Resource Management from Florida State University. Christina is a business consultant with the Small Business Development Center at FAMU, winning Regional Consultant of the Year in 2021.

 

In addition to her various roles, she also serves as the President of the Board for Red Hills Small Farm Alliance, a board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend, FSU College of Business Department of Accounting Advisory Board, Black Tattoo Anthology, and the interim Executive Director of the American Herbalists Guild.

Tiffany Lewis, Capital City Chamber of Commerce 

Workshop: “Tallahassee Business Roadmap“
Tuesday, November 19 | 1pm-2pm
This workshop, led by Tiffany Lewis, introduces the Tallahassee Business Roadmap, a comprehensive guide designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners navigate the path to success in the local business ecosystem. Attendees will learn key steps—from business registration to securing funding and utilizing community resources—to build strong, sustainable businesses. Attendees will leave with a copy of the roadmap and a vetted resource guide filled with valuable tools to support their business growth.
Tiffany Lewis serves as the Community Development Coordinator for the Capital City Chamber of Commerce, where she is dedicated to fostering connections, supporting local businesses, and empowering entrepreneurs within the Tallahassee community. In her role, Tiffany works closely with Chamber members and community partners to provide resources, create opportunities, and drive initiatives that contribute to the growth and sustainability of small businesses across the region.
 
Beyond her work at the Chamber, Tiffany is an accomplished entrepreneur and the proud owner of Milk Me Treats, a business known for its creative dessert offerings and unique baking experiences. Her passion for both business and community development is evident in her dual roles, as she continuously strives to uplift local businesses while building her own.
 
With a deep commitment to helping others succeed, Tiffany’s expertise lies in bringing people together and creating impactful opportunities for collaboration and growth. Her work at the Chamber and as a business owner makes her a dynamic force in Tallahassee’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Juming Delmas

Workshop: “How to Start Your Podcast on YouTube –
From Filming to Marketing”
Thursday, November 21 | 11am-12pm

Interested in launching your own podcast on YouTube? Whether you’re a business owner looking to build your brand, a content creator wanting to share your passion, or someone who’s eager to dive into the world of podcasting, this hands-on workshop is designed for you! Podcasting on YouTube has become an increasingly popular way to connect with audiences, but getting it right requires more than just pressing “record.”

 

In this workshop, we’ll cover everything from setting up the perfect filming environment and optimizing lighting, to mastering audio recording for podcasts and creating content that captivates your target audience. Additionally, you’ll learn how to market your podcast effectively on YouTube, reach the right audience, and build a community around your content. By the end of this session, you’ll have the tools to confidently launch, produce, and grow your podcast.


Attendees should bring a laptop and smartphone to this session – this is a hands-on workshop.

Juming Delmas, founder of Juming Delmas Studios (JDS), is an award-winning filmmaker and podcast host of “I’m Just Here to Listen.” With years of experience in video production and digital marketing, Juming has mastered the art of storytelling through various platforms, including YouTube. His own podcast, which covers topics like horror stories and urban legends, has built a dedicated following. Juming’s studio, JDS, has produced a wide range of content, from creative short films to corporate videos, earning over 15 awards globally. Through this workshop, Juming shares his expertise on creating high-quality content that not only engages but also grows a loyal audience on YouTube of over 25,000 subscribers. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your current podcast, Juming’s insights will help you bring your vision to life.

Destiney Burt, Maladon Media

Workshop: “Start Where You Are: Leveraging Your Resources in Content Creation for Business Success”
Tuesday, November 19 | 3pm-4pm

You don’t need a huge budget to create content that resonates with your audience! In this interactive workshop, Destiney Burt will walk you through how to use what you already have—whether it’s your smartphone, personal skills, or a small team—to build high-impact social media content. From quick video creation to impactful Instagram posts, you’ll leave this workshop with a strategy for creating valuable, authentic content without breaking the bank.

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DAY TWO – Workshops

NOVEMBER 20, 2024

Ja’Baree Allen, Business Automation Pros

Workshop: “Unlocking the Power of AI Prompts to 10X Your Productivity”
Wednesday, November 20th | 10am-11am

In this workshop, discover how AI-generated prompts can revolutionize the way you work, streamline tasks, and help your business thrive. Designed for small to medium-sized business owners, you’ll learn how to craft and implement AI prompts that save time, automate repetitive tasks, and increase productivity across various functions like marketing, customer service, and operations. Walk away with actionable knowledge on AI prompt engineering and tools to immediately boost your workflow efficiency by tenfold.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to design effective AI prompts to automate tasks.

• Discover real-world applications of AI tools to scale your business.

• Gain practical techniques to increase productivity by 10X using AI.

Ja’Baree Allen is a pioneering technologist and serial entrepreneur hailing from Tallahassee, FL. With degrees in Business and Entrepreneurship from Florida State University, he has carved out a distinguished career in the realms of artificial intelligence and process automation.


As the founder of Business Automation Pros, Mr. Allen has been instrumental in simplifying digital transformations for small and medium-sized businesses, leveraging his deep expertise in AI to revolutionize operations across various industries, particularly healthcare.
His innovative spirit is evident in his creation of The Contract Wizard, an AI powered solicitation and grant writing tool. A thought leader in the AI community, Mr. Allen is passionate about ensuring that AI ethics and governance in particular in healthcare where the lack of accountability in unbiased data could prove detrimental to vulnerable populations.

 

Mr. Allen is also the co-founder of Phusion AI, a full-service AI firm committed to helping SMB’s seamlessly implement AI into their business. With numerous certifications from IBM, Google, Stanford University, and Vanderbilt, he is a sought-after speaker and consultant, guiding young
professionals and businesses on harnessing AI for growth and innovation. His passion for AI education is reflected in his bootcamps, webinars, and articles, where he shares practical strategies and insights to empower others in the AI space.

Women Wednesday – Meetup

Workshop: “Meeting Demand:
Building a Pipeline for Women & Girls in the Skill Trades!“
Wednesday, November 20 | 11am-12pm

YOU can have a HUGE IMPACT!

Massive shortages of trades workers creates an incredible oppHERtunity for women & girls in the skilled trades. She’s needed! Please join in for the discussion on how area peoples and organizations can work together to foster a pipeline connecting women and girls with the training and job placement that can lead to these high paying and rewarding jobs in great demand.

Tamara is an educator, host/moderator, and entrepreneur. As founder of Tamarity Co, she specializes in creating meaningful community engagement opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs through events, media, and education.

 
A proud Seminole, Tam is a native of Miami, Fl, and served the Sunshine State as Ms. Black Florida USA 2019. With almost 15 years of speaking and on-camera experience, she is the former host of Tallahassee Matters on WCOT Tallahassee, and has been a voice for brands such as Visit Florida, Shea Moisture, and the National Retail Federation’s Big Show. She currently works to support the local community through the Capital City Chamber of Commerce as Training Director and Women Wednesdays as Co-Founder and Community Director. As Co-Owner/Brand & Media Relations Director at LOUD Love of Urban Design® loveofurbandesign.com, she works with “Team LOUD” to highlight and support creatives throughout their artistic and entrepreneurial journeys, with special emphasis on Miami Art Week and Art Basel, Miami.  

Vince Hunt, The Creative Bureau

Workshop: “To Converse With Machines – Unlocking the Full Potential of ChatGPT”
Wednesday, November 20th | 1pm-2pm

Vincent Hunt doesn’t just work with AI—he’s spent years helping organizations and leaders unlock their creative potential by integrating cutting-edge technology with human ingenuity. In this engaging, 1-hour workshop, you won’t just talk about ChatGPT—you’ll learn how to converse with machines in a way that enhances creativity and drives results.

 

Ever wondered how to design a GPT persona that feels almost human, but still does the heavy lifting? Or maybe you’re curious about the behind-the-scenes process of developing training documents that actually work? Vincent will walk you through his tried-and-true Bureau GPT Architecture—showing you how to map, build, and launch a GPT that’s tailor-made for your needs.

 

With decades of experience helping organizations push the boundaries of innovation, Vincent knows what it takes to go beyond theory and into practical, real-world applications. By the end of this session, you’ll not only understand how to develop a GPT persona but will also leave with the tools to manage its interaction protocols. Ready to unlock the full potential of ChatGPT? This workshop is for you.

Vincent Hunt is an American entrepreneur, multidisciplinary creative, and thought leader who has been deeply engaged in the digital and creative industries since the mid-1990s. With decades of experience driving innovation across various domains, Hunt has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the intersection of creativity and technology.

Julia Holly, City Clips

Workshop: “Tired of Hearing “We’ve Been Talking About This for Years”?
It’s Time to Take Action!”
Wednesday, November 20 | 3pm-4pm

Julia Holly jokes that she’s “new to Tallahassee—for the last 14 years.” In that time, she’s heard the same refrain: “We’ve been discussing these issues forever, but nothing’s changed.” Sound familiar? It’s time to break the cycle and start getting real results.

 

In this dynamic workshop, Julia will show you how to move beyond endless discussions and actually make things happen. With over a decade of experience helping small teams complete thousands of projects, all while managing a busy household of six (plus a dog!), Julia has learned the secrets of high-performing CEOs and coaches.

 

Join her as she shares proven strategies that have helped her remote-first team of six consistently get things done. If you’re ready to turn ideas into action and make progress where it counts, this session is for you!

With over 20 years in the creative industry since graduating from the award-winning college Academy of Art University, SF, Julia has steadily maintained growth for her branding studio, JH Creative (jhcreative.co). She has helped local organizations and businesses like Domi, Nic’s Toggery, Team 180 Consulting and hundreds of clients refresh their brand and online presence. Julia also co-founded an email newsletter, CityClips (cityclips.net) covering the latest developments for business and technology.

Workshop: “How to Write a Business Plan Using Live Plan”
Wednesday, November 20 | 3pm-4pm
Facilitator

Dr. Adriene Wright, SBDC Business Consultant

ImpactWeek_Sponsors_SBDCFAMU
Are you ready to take your business idea to the next level or seeking to refine your existing business plan? Join us for an interactive, hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to craft a comprehensive and effective business plan using Live Plan, an industry-leading business planning tool.
 
This workshop, led by Dr. Adriene Wright, a seasoned business consultant with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and Josh Fegles, a representative from Live Plan, will guide you through each step of building a business plan tailored to your goals. Whether you’re a startup looking to secure funding or an established business aiming to scale, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap for success.
 
What You Will Learn:
  • The key components of a successful business plan.
  • How to use Live Plan’s intuitive software.
  • Best practices for setting realistic goals, pitching to investors, and aligning your business plan with long-term growth strategies.
  • Tips from an experienced consultant and a Live Plan expert.
 
Who Should Attend:
  • Entrepreneurs starting a new business.
  • Business owners looking to revise or strengthen their current business plan.
  • Anyone interested in using Live Plan to streamline the business planning process.

Dr. Wright is a successful entrepreneur, an author, a certified professional life coach, and an acclaimed speaker. She also leads Abelita LLC, a rapidly growing consulting company specializing in Community Outreach and Public Engagement. Abelita works across market sectors with corporations, small businesses, universities, and government agencies.

Facilitator

Josh Fegles, Live Plan Representative

R.J. Singleton, CREAT.ORS

Workshop: “Creat.ive Solopreneur Mastermind: Co-Lab”
Wednesday, November 20 | 3pm-4pm

This mastermind is designed specifically for creative entrepreneurs ready to tackle the core elements of their business head-on. Together, we’ll dive deep into marketing, branding, and content strategy, collaboratively working through real challenges in an interactive, hands-on environment.

Bring your laptops, gear, and specific questions—this is a space for action, not just passive listening. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, engage, and grow alongside a community of like-minded solopreneurs, this Co-Lab is for you. Let’s turn your creative vision into reality together!

RJ is a Creative Director with a decade of experience in event-specific media and content creation. He is dedicated to empowering solopreneurs and creative entrepreneurs through a community-driven approach that emphasizes collaboration and support. Known for crafting innovative, on-brand content, Roberto excels at aligning marketing strategies with client goals while ensuring sponsor satisfaction. His passion for helping others shines through as he provides actionable insights to inspire growth within the creative industry.

Audra N. Fournier, Partners for a Solution

Workshop: “Personality Profiling in Action”
Wednesday, November, 20 | 4pm-5pm

Embark on a transformative journey as we unveil your personality type, the keys to fostering employee engagement through innovative communication, while spotlighting the pivotal role of leadership through personality profiling. Attendees will leave informed and inspired to implement new approaches customized to the personality of the team members, creating a workplace culture that builds trust, encourages collaboration, and enhances overall employee satisfaction and performance.

Audra Fournier is a resident of Tallahassee, Florida, where she originally earned a hospitality degree from Florida State University. Her career in the hospitality industry spanned from New York City to Tampa Bay, emphasizing customer experience, relationship building, and change management. While in Tampa, she completed her MBA in Business Management.

 

In 2015, she returned to Tallahassee and founded Partners for a Solution, LLC. Coaching has allowed her to blend her experience as a third-generation entrepreneur with her extensive customer service background to help business owners and leaders operate more effective and efficient businesses.

 

As a certified life and business coach, DISC personality profiler, and John Maxwell certified trainer, she empowers individuals to enhance communication and collaboration. Currently, she serves on The Salvation Army’s Advisory Board, NEBA board, as Vice President of Grow Tallahassee, as an independent business consultant with the SBDC, and in various other roles. Her passion is in contributing to the success of her clients and community.

DAY THREE – Workshops

NOVEMBER 21, 2024

Tam Smith, Tamarity Co.

Workshop: “Podium Power”
Thursday, November 21 | 10am-11am
“Podium Power” is an engaging public speaking workshop designed to help individuals overcome stage fright, improve their communication skills, and inspire confidence in any speaking setting. Whether you’re presenting in the boardroom, on stage, on-camera, or even in small group discussions, this workshop equips participants with practical techniques to make every word count. With engaging exercises and a supportive environment, “Podium Power” aims to empower each participant to become a confident and impactful speaker. We’ll begin the workshop with a special “Conversation with Nicole” featuring one of Tallahassee’s cherished talk show hosts, Nicole Everett!  She will share the impact and importance of communicating your business’s vision and telling your brand’s story. 
 
Ideal For:
Professionals, students, community leaders, or anyone who wants to strengthen their speaking skills and communicate with confidence.

Tamara is an educator, host/moderator, and entrepreneur. As founder of Tamarity Co, she specializes in creating meaningful community engagement opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs through events, media, and education.

 
A proud Seminole, Tam is a native of Miami, Fl, and served the Sunshine State as Ms. Black Florida USA 2019. With almost 15 years of speaking and on-camera experience, she is the former host of Tallahassee Matters on WCOT Tallahassee, and has been a voice for brands such as Visit Florida, Shea Moisture, and the National Retail Federation’s Big Show. She currently works to support the local community through the Capital City Chamber of Commerce as Training Director and Women Wednesdays as Co-Founder and Community Director. As Co-Owner/Brand & Media Relations Director at LOUD Love of Urban Design® loveofurbandesign.com, she works with “Team LOUD” to highlight and support creatives throughout their artistic and entrepreneurial journeys, with special emphasis on Miami Art Week and Art Basel, Miami.  

Lauren Helm, Helm PR

Workshop: “LinkedIn Profile Audit”
Thursday, November 21 | 11am-12pm
Whether you’re a recent graduate seeking job opportunities, an established brand, or an entrepreneur, LinkedIn can be a powerful tool. With such a vast reach, your LinkedIn profile has the potential to be seen by recruiters, potential clients, and industry colleagues, which can impact your bottom line. This hands-on workshop will explore optimizing your LinkedIn profile to enhance visibility, credibility, and networking opportunities. Attendees will develop their headlines, learn about native features to streamline content, establish contact details for potential connections, and personalize their LinkedIn URLs. 

***Attendees bring a laptop to this session – this is a hands on workshop.

Lauren’s career has been anchored in public relations. She has expertly navigated the world of branding, community relations, event management, digital marketing, corporate communications, and community engagement while harnessing a proven track record of delivering results that matter. Well-versed in the healthcare industry, Lauren was pivotal in leading public relations initiatives for Florida’s top-ranked HMO and maintaining its status among the nation’s top 5 for over a decade.

Terri Sherman, Florida Business Exchange, Inc

Workshop: “Exit Strategies”
Thursday, November 21 | 11am-12pm

This workshop is for individuals at any stage of business ownership, as it will provide a practical
overview of items you should keep in mind when thinking about a future exit, and more importantly,
why you should even consider an exit strategy in your business. This workshop will also help you
think about your business as a future, saleable asset.

Terri Sherman has been with Florida Business Exchange, Inc. since 2011 as a Business Intermediary operating under Terri D. Sherman, PA. She is a member of the Business Brokers of Florida (BBF) and
International Business Brokers Association (IBBA), through whom she is designated a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI). She specializes in the sales of main street businesses and has sold a host of businesses across the state of Florida. Terri has been the recipient of the BBF “Million Dollar Plus” Award and the IBBA “Outstanding Producer Award.” She is ready to help you “mind your business today”!

Bryan Gibson, i2X Solutions

Workshop: “Computing Safely and with Continuity”
Thursday, November 21 | 12pm-1pm

No matter your stage of business, owners and operators need to ensure their technology is running smoothly.  If your computer is down, your business is down, your clients are not getting service, and you are not generating revenue.  In this hands-on workshop, we will learn about the basic drivers of computer performance, maintenance steps you can take to keeping your computer running smoothly, and how to keep it protected.  You will also learn how to create automated online backups of your critical files to preserve your data and make computer upgrades or recovery a cinch.  Attendees will setup recurring operating system updates, ensure anti-virus is installed and updating, and learn about the basic components that lead to performance issues.  Additionally, we will setup basic backups and learn about how to detect and identify the latest threats.

Bryan has been building computers, writing programs, and working with technology since he was 13 years old.  As a professional, he has been advising, consulting, and implementing myriad solutions for very large businesses for 20 years.  In addition, he has founded or co-founded a handful of companies and currently runs i2x Solutions which regionally focuses on technology and cyber-security solutions for clients in various industries in the Tallahassee area.  Whether working for international enterprises or startups, Bryan has led and built teams using his passion to find solutions to the toughest problems while focusing on sharing knowledge to make technology understandable.

Tiffany Lewis, Owner of Milk Me Treats

Workshop: “Fueled by Purpose: How Community Involvement Can Sustain Your Business in Tough Times“
Thursday, November 21 | 1pm-2pm

This interactive workshop explores the vital role that community involvement plays in not only supporting your business through difficult times but also fueling long-term success. Learn how to build strong relationships within your community, leverage local networks for mutual support, and create a business model that gives back. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have actionable strategies for using community engagement to foster resilience, growth, and sustainability, ensuring your business thrives even during challenging periods.

Tiffany Lewis is the founder of Milk Me Treats, a creative dessert business offering customizable flavors, professional catering, and interactive baking experiences that bring people together in fun and engaging ways. With a passion for both entrepreneurship and community, Tiffany has built Milk Me Treats into a platform that fosters connection and creativity through food.

 

In addition to running her business, Tiffany is the driving force behind TallyFest, an annual event that celebrates local talent and the vibrancy of our community. She also serves as the Community Development Coordinator for the Capital City Chamber of Commerce, where she works to support local businesses by connecting them to essential resources and growth opportunities.

 

As a speaker, Tiffany draws from her own experiences as an entrepreneur and community advocate, sharing practical insights on staying resilient and motivated through the challenges of running a business. Her practical approach and relatable experiences inspire fellow business owners to say “fired up while leading with purpose and determination.

Ja’Baree Allen, Business Automation Pros

Workshop: “Maximizing Business Growth with AI-Powered Chatbots”
Thhursday, November 21st | 2pm-3pm

AI chatbots are transforming customer engagement and operations for small to medium-sized businesses. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to integrate chatbots into your business to handle customer inquiries, generate leads, and improve response times. The workshop will cover practical strategies for implementing chatbots that enhance customer experiences, reduce overhead costs, and automate workflows, allowing you to focus on growth.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Understand how AI chatbots can streamline customer support.

• Explore the benefits of using chatbots for lead generation and marketing.

• Gain hands-on knowledge of setting up a chatbot to enhance your business operations.

Ja’Baree Allen is a pioneering technologist and serial entrepreneur hailing from Tallahassee, FL. With degrees in Business and Entrepreneurship from Florida State University, he has carved out a distinguished career in the realms of artificial intelligence and process automation.


As the founder of Business Automation Pros, Mr. Allen has been instrumental in simplifying digital transformations for small and medium-sized businesses, leveraging his deep expertise in AI to revolutionize operations across various industries, particularly healthcare.
His innovative spirit is evident in his creation of The Contract Wizard, an AI powered solicitation and grant writing tool. A thought leader in the AI community, Mr. Allen is passionate about ensuring that AI ethics and governance in particular in healthcare where the lack of accountability in unbiased data could prove detrimental to vulnerable populations.

 

Mr. Allen is also the co-founder of Phusion AI, a full-service AI firm committed to helping SMB’s seamlessly implement AI into their business. With numerous certifications from IBM, Google, Stanford University, and Vanderbilt, he is a sought-after speaker and consultant, guiding young
professionals and businesses on harnessing AI for growth and innovation. His passion for AI education is reflected in his bootcamps, webinars, and articles, where he shares practical strategies and insights to empower others in the AI space.

Erin Gillespie, Slalom

Thursday, November 21th | 3pm-4pm
Workshop: “Communications in the Social Media Era”

Join government consultant, communications pro and former entrepreneur — Erin Gillespie for a fun and fast-paced workshop on communications against a backdrop of intense technological change and social media, where the speed of information has dropped from reading a newspaper every 24 hours to getting news updates within seconds. Join her for an interactive session with real examples of communications wins and failures.

Erin has almost two decades of experience in state government operations, media and public relations, crisis management, and government affairs. She currently works with government agencies to implement new technologies to better serve constituents. Previously she was the Deputy Chief of Staff for the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (now Florida Commerce), working with businesses and communities across the state to invest in a high-tech workforce, develop strong growth strategies and promote Florida’s economic success. Erin has extensive disaster recovery experience, leading statewide private sector disaster recovery efforts after Hurricanes Hermine, Matthew, Irma, Maria and Michael. Previously, Erin handled communications and media for the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Department of Children and Families. A former newspaper reporter, Erin earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Auburn University.