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Workshops 2025

WORKSHOPS ADDED DAILY

DAY ONE – Workshops

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2025

Chandra Dowdell – CD Luxe Massage Spa

Exclusive: CD Luxe Massage Spa Experience at Impact Week
 
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 10:00am – 1:00pm

Ready to relax, reset, and recharge?

Book your exclusive massage session with Chandra in the Impact Week Lobby.

This one-of-a-kind experience lets you sample signature massage techniques designed to melt away stress, restore balance, and refocus your energy for the journey ahead.

Founded by licensed therapist and entrepreneur Chandra Dowdell, CD Luxe Massage Spa brings premium self-care to the Impact Week Conference. Whether you’re a Founder, Leader, or Changemaker, this is your invitation to breathe deeper and go further.

Chandra Dowdell, is excited to help others achieve health and wellness through her work as a licensed massage therapist, aesthetician, and body stretch coach. She graduated from Aveda Institute in Tallahassee, Florida, February 2023.
Chandra has the ability and knowledge to work with various clients to address their treatment goals. Chandra technique is very thorough and can be adapted to each clients knees whether it be deep tissue massage, relaxation, trigger point therapy, facial techniques and so on. Chandra strives to provide a therapeutic massage/facial in a relaxing, comfortable environment so her clients can have a little bit of “me” time.
When Chandra is not providing therapy, you can find her spending time with her friends and family.

Stacy Chambers

Founding Director, Innovation School of Excellence

Strong Minds, Good Hearts: From Middle School to Workforce in the Age of AI
Tuesday, November 18th | 10am-11am

What Attendees Will Gain: Participants will see and experience how a middle school to workforce pipeline is being developed -where AI is taught with ethics first. They will hear how about the first of its kind collaboration between CSUSA and Tallahassee State College, has resulted in the launching of the first AI centered middle school in the state of Florida. You’ll explore practical classroom models, including real-time AI tutoring that adapts to students’ needs while teaching them to verify, question, and apply information responsibly.

Key Takeaways:

  • A clear framework for embedding ethical AI use into middle school learning.
  • How real-time AI tutoring can accelerate skills while strengthening critical thinking instead of replacing it.
  • A replicable MS→HS→college pathway that aligns with Florida’s workforce needs in cybersecurity, healthcare, and STEM.
  • Practical tools: an AI ethics rubric, sample prompts, and a starter checklist for piloting AI in classrooms or community programs.

I build schools that do things differently.

As Founding Director of Innovation Academy of Excellence and former Senior Director of Innovation at CSUSA-and in Collaboration with Tallahassee State College, my work focuses on designing future-ready learning environments that connect students to purpose, pathways, and possibilities. From ethical AI and early college access to project-based learning and real-world career prep, I believe schools can—and should—do more to prepare students for what’s next.

Partnering with leaders, educators, and communities, I help bring bold ideas to life in ways that are practical, people-centered, and results-driven. Always grounded in the mission: Strong Minds and Good Hearts.

Tangela Lofton – SBDC at FAMU

Innovation in Action: How Small Businesses Drive Local Change
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Discover how small businesses are not just engines of the economy—but catalysts for community transformation. In this dynamic session, Tangela Lofton, MBA, shares real-world insights and strategies from her dual perspective as Regional Director of the Florida SBDC at FAMU and a successful entrepreneur. Learn how innovation, resilience, and local leadership can spark meaningful change, empower neighborhoods, and create lasting impact. Whether you’re a startup founder, community leader, or aspiring changemaker, this workshop will inspire you to lead with purpose and innovate with heart.

A results-driven business leader with nearly 20 years of experience in finance, entrepreneurship, business development, and community impact, Tangela brings a strategic vision and hands-on expertise to drive growth and innovation. As Regional Director of the Florida SBDC at Florida A&M University, she empowers entrepreneurs across the Florida Panhandle through technical assistance and strategic support. Tangela is also the founder of Sweet Face and The Juice Bar Miami, where she champions sustainability and holistic wellness in underserved communities. Through every endeavor, she is committed to bridging systemic gaps and creating equitable access to resources for lasting impact.

Susan Aarons, TC Federal Bank

From Payables to Protection: Guarding your Green in Practice
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

From Payables to Protection: Guarding your Green in Practice

Following the eye-opening seminar on fraud prevention, join us for a hands-on workshop that dives deeper into the world of payables optimization. Led by Susan Aarons of TC Federal Bank, this session will equip business owners and financial professionals with actionable strategies to streamline accounts payable processes, reduce risk exposure, and enhance cash flow management.

Susan Aarons is an expert in Treasury Management Consulting with over 20 years of experience collaborating with Corporate, Business, Government, and Non-Profit organizations across Florida and Georgia. A University of Louisiana Monroe graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice, Susan uniquely merges her banking expertise with a fervent commitment to fraud prevention, delivering impactful lectures on cybercrime risks. As an Accredited ACH Professional and Certified Treasury Manager, she empowers organizations to optimize cash flow, streamline payment processes, and adopt electronic payment solutions. Passionate about community service, Susan holds leadership positions, such as Immediate Past Chair and Board Member for the Foundation for Leon County Schools, while also actively supporting the Leon County Humane Society as a foster, volunteer, and Board Secretary. Her dedication has earned her prestigious recognitions, including the Julian V. Smith Community Service Award and Buck Lake Elementary Mentor of the Year. With a career defined by innovation and a heart for giving back, Susan inspires progress and security in every endeavor.

Terri Stallworth, Florida Business Exchange, Inc

Why Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition?
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Attendees will gain practical insights on what business acquisition is as a concept. They will also learn the top ways to fund an acquisition, as well as where to find businesses for sale.

Terri Stallworth has been with Florida Business Exchange, Inc. since 2011 as a Business Intermediary operating under Terri Sherman Stallworth, PA (formerly 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’s “Million Dollar Plus” & “Dealmaker” awards, and the IBBA’s “Outstanding Producer” & “Chairman’s Circle” awards. She is ready to help you “mind your business today”!

DUE to HIGH DEMAND we are REPEATING this COURSE all THREE DAYS

Gary Cottingham, Cottingham Marketing

Find your who, sharpen your Why: Master Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning in just 45 minutes!
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Ready to supercharge your business strategy? Join us for an engaging, hands-on session where you’ll discover how to move beyond the “everyone is my customer” trap. Learn the proven framework top brands use to win loyal audiences. Through real-world examples and interactive exercises, you’ll identify your most valuable customer segments, select the right target market, and craft a powerful positioning statement that sets your brand apart.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand how to divide and evaluate your market effectively.
  • Zero in on your ideal customers with practical targeting methods.
  • Create a simple, memorable positioning statement for your brand.
  • Apply actionable tools you can use immediately to grow smarter and faster.

Born and raised in Rochester, NY, and later moving to Florida for his career, Gary Cottingham has over 40 years of experience in management-level consumer marketing and data analytics. He has leveraged his knowledge, skill, and expertise to grow Cottingham Marketing (https://www.cottmark.com) into a recognized leader in customer segmentation, targeting, and positioning, as well as data analytics. He serves Retail companies and their agencies across the United States and around the world through consulting and data brokerage. While his greatest experience is with Retail, if your business involves targeting Consumer audiences, Gary can help you grow your business cost-effectively.

Gary retired from Publix Marketing in 2023, where he led the Loyalty, Personalization, & CRM Analytics Team, responsible for defining Publix’s Target Customer segments and building target audiences for a wide range of marketing campaigns.

Jeremy Cohen, Target Print & Mail

Why Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition?
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Details coming soon…

Jeremy…

Amia Nunn

Exclusive: Impact Week Haulin’ Threads Hat Bar Session
This Session will book fast and requires signup.
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm

Ready to make a IMPACT? Step into creativity with the Haulin’ Threads Impact Week Demo Session

This is a one-of-a-kind experience where you design your own custom trucker hat that reflects your personality, purpose, and power for Impact Week.

Haulin’ Threads is Founded by FAMU alumna Amia M. Nunn, this business brings the perfect blend of entrepreneurship and self-expression to the Impact Week floor. Whether you’re a CEO, Dreamer, or a Disruptor, your hat will say it loud.

I am a multi-passionate entrepreneur with a strong foundation in accounting, business consulting, and creative arts. I am the owner of Haulin’ Threads Trucker Hat Bar, where I help people express themselves through custom fashion, and the founder of Nunn Better LLC, offering guidance in branding, business formation, and financial literacy. With over 20 years of experience in accounting and a degree from Florida A&M University, I use my expertise to empower startups and aspiring entrepreneurs. My work has been featured at community events and youth programs throughout the Big Bend Area. I’m committed to inspiring others to turn their passion into purpose.

Becky Tolnay, Vistage Chair and professional facilitator

Experience the Power of a Peer Group: A Live Issue-Processing Session
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm
In this interactive session, participants will experience a peer advisory group in action using a simplified version of the Vistage Issue Processing model. Attendees will break into small groups to help one participant work through a real business challenge—asking thoughtful questions, offering perspective, and identifying next steps. This hands-on format highlights the value of structured, confidential peer conversations in helping leaders gain clarity and make better decisions. You’ll leave with practical tools and a deeper appreciation for how peer groups can support growth and confident leadership.

Becky Tolnay is a Vistage Chair and professional facilitator who works with CEOs, business owners, and leadership teams to help them grow personally and professionally through peer advisory groups and strategic collaboration. With over 25 years in quality and continuous improvement at The Ritz-Carlton, she brings deep expertise in leadership, team development, and problem-solving. Becky is known for her calm, curious, and engaging approach, helping leaders slow down, ask better questions, and take meaningful action. Whether she’s speaking from the stage or guiding a small group, she creates space for honest conversation, fresh perspective, and clarity around the next right step.

Melissa H. Jeda, Esq. – Partner, Secure Mark Legal

Securing your Brand and Reputation
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm

Explore how to protect your ideas and innovations in this interactive intellectual property workshop. Attorneys Melissa Jeda and Holly McFall will cover key topics in trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets, offering practical strategies to safeguard your business assets. Participants will identify their own IP, learn application processes, and discover how to leverage IP for growth. Walk away with a solid understanding of IP protection and a clear roadmap to secure your business advantage.

Melissa H. Jeda along with Holly McFall are the founding partners of SecureMark Legal. Melissa Jeda received her Juris Doctorate degree from the Ave Maria School of Law in 2013 and currently resides on the east coast of Florida with her husband and two sons. After a short time as an associate attorney, she became a partner at the law firm of Miller, Hollander & Jeda, in late 2015. She is well rounded and possesses a high degree of knowledge of the Federal Rules and regulations. Her professional interests focus on ensuring her clients receive the personal attention they deserve in order to resolve their financial struggles, believing that each case is Unique.

Mrs. Jeda practices before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USTPO) and the Libary of Congress on copyright matters. She is licensed to practice in the United States District Court for the Middle and Southern Division of Florida, and the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals.

DAY TWO – Workshops

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2025

Erica Sanders-Ricketts, Rally – Orlando, FL.

Messaging That Moves People: Building Community Around Your Mission
Wednesday, November 19 | 9am-10am

Every mission-driven venture needs more than a good idea—it needs a message people believe in and a community that stands behind it. In this workshop, Erica will show how authentic storytelling and real connection can help any organization, large or small, grow its reach and impact. You’ll leave with simple tools to clarify your message, engage your audience, and build lasting community support.

Erica Sanders-Ricketts helps mission-driven entrepreneurs and organizations grow through strategy, storytelling, and authentic community connection. As Program and Operations Manager at Rally, she supports early-stage social entrepreneurs in transforming bold ideas into ventures that create measurable social and environmental impact.

Through her firm, Inspire & Convey, Erica has spent more than a decade helping businesses and nonprofits clarify their message and engage their audiences with purpose and trust. Her work—spanning communications, marketing, and partnerships—centers on one belief: every organization, no matter its size, can build meaningful relationships that power real change.

Kyle Steele, Rally – Orlando, FL.

Building Businesses That Make a Difference
Wednesday, November 19 | 10am-11am

Around the world, people are using business principles to tackle social and environmental challenges—creating jobs, improving lives, and strengthening communities. This workshop introduces how that works and gives you simple tools to turn your own ideas into action. You’ll also learn how to connect with local programs and partners that can help you grow your impact.

Kyle Steele is a social entrepreneur and civic innovator who builds places and platforms that help people and communities flourish. As Executive Director and COO of Rally, he leads a regional strategy that uses business principles to tackle social and environmental challenges—positioning Central Florida as a Living Lab where entrepreneurs, institutions, and residents co-create solutions that improve lives and strengthen systems.


He is also the Managing Partner of The Conduit, a mission-driven coworking and community space devoted to realizing a luminous society woven with benevolent threads—where people’s work and relationships become catalysts for transformation and lasting good. Over the past decade, The Conduit’s coworking space, art gallery, health care access initiative, and advocacy programs have embodied this vision, helping thousands find purpose and connection.

 

A former Visiting Social Entrepreneur at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, Kyle’s work bridges vision and execution—turning ideas into measurable impact while inspiring others to see business, creativity, and community as tools for enduring good.

Josh Braswell, Witt’s End Consulting

Cash Cycle Management – How to Stretch Your Dollars
Wednesday, November 19 | 10am-11am

Do you have a profitable business, but still struggle to keep cash in your accounts? Join me to learn about ways to modify your financial operations, policies, and products to stretch your operating funds further! 

An experienced professional with a background in the banking, nonprofit, import, and healthcare industries, I help business owners optimize their finances so they can grow.

Doug Luciani, First Commerce Credit Union

Workshop: “Financial Wellness for a Multi-Generational Workforce: Empowering Entrepreneurs and Their Teams for the Future”
Wednesday, 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.
 

Kara Holbert, Executive Director – Domi Station

Workshop: Stop Guessing, Start Testing: Customer Discovery & Idea Validation
Wednesday, November 19 | 10am-11am

Most entrepreneurs build solutions before confirming if anyone really wants to buy what you’re selling. This interactive session flips that script. You’ll practice real customer discovery techniques, identify your riskiest assumptions, and create a plan to validate them—so you can launch smarter and stronger. Walk away with an action plan you can implement quickly so you can focus on growing your company.

COMING SOON

Luca Conner, Co-Founder | CEO, Pack’N

Beyond the Box: Turning Fulfillment into a Retention Engine
Wednesday, November, 19 | 11am-12pm | Classroom A

Most brands treat fulfillment as a backend cost, but the post purchase experience is one of the strongest drivers of customer loyalty and repeat sales. In this workshop, Pack’N Co Founder Luca Conner explains how brands can turn their fulfillment and customer communication into a measurable growth engine. Attendees will learn the five pillars of a strong post purchase experience, see how Pack’N built systems focused on retention, and leave with a practical framework they can apply to their own operations.

 

Luca Conner is the Co Founder and CEO of Pack’N, a rapidly growing fulfillment and customer experience company based in Florida. Luca helped build Pack’N from the ground up at age 20, navigating early operational challenges and a dissolved partnership to create an operation known for reliability and client focused systems. He speaks on the connection between fulfillment, customer experience, and long term customer retention, and how founders can turn their post purchase process into a competitive advantage.

Bryan Gibson, i2X Solutions

Small Business, Big Cybersecurity – Protecting Your Business in the Digital Age
Wednesday, November 19 | 11am-12pm

Take control of your business’s digital safety in this practical, interactive workshop. We’ll walk you through exactly what to do—from setting up anti-malware and cloud backups to training your team to spot scams and phishing attempts. Bring your devices, your questions, and your concerns—we’ll help you configure smarter systems on the spot. Whether you’re working from a storefront, home office, or shared workspace, you’ll leave more secure, more aware, and ready to defend your business from today’s most common cyber 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.

Tam Smith, Tamarity Co.

Women Wednesday Meetup: Women In Entrepreneurship
Wednesday, November 19 | 12pm-1pm

Women Wednesdays is a community of women who work to help each other succeed and advance opportunities for others. Join this meeting at Impact Week to learn more.

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.  
DUE to HIGH DEMAND we are REPEATING this COURSE all THREE DAYS

Gary Cottingham, Cottingham Marketing

Find your who, sharpen your Why: Master Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning in just 45 minutes!
Wedday, Nov. 19 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Ready to supercharge your business strategy? Join us for an engaging, hands-on session where you’ll discover how to move beyond the “everyone is my customer” trap. Learn the proven framework top brands use to win loyal audiences. Through real-world examples and interactive exercises, you’ll identify your most valuable customer segments, select the right target market, and craft a powerful positioning statement that sets your brand apart.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand how to divide and evaluate your market effectively.
  • Zero in on your ideal customers with practical targeting methods.
  • Create a simple, memorable positioning statement for your brand.
  • Apply actionable tools you can use immediately to grow smarter and faster.

Born and raised in Rochester, NY, and later moving to Florida for his career, Gary Cottingham has over 40 years of experience in management-level consumer marketing and data analytics. He has leveraged his knowledge, skill, and expertise to grow Cottingham Marketing (https://www.cottmark.com) into a recognized leader in customer segmentation, targeting, and positioning, as well as data analytics. He serves Retail companies and their agencies across the United States and around the world through consulting and data brokerage. While his greatest experience is with Retail, if your business involves targeting Consumer audiences, Gary can help you grow your business cost-effectively.

Gary retired from Publix Marketing in 2023, where he led the Loyalty, Personalization, & CRM Analytics Team, responsible for defining Publix’s Target Customer segments and building target audiences for a wide range of marketing campaigns.

Daniel Nelson – Fractional CFO, TechBrainstorm

Build your Business Intelligence System
Wednesday, Nov. 19 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

In this dynamic workshop, Entrepreneur, CFO and Startup Mentor, Daniel Nelson will introduce a new way to think about building out efficient, dynamic, and scalable financial and operational infrastructure for your company. The session will use a first-principles approach on the sciences of finance, accounting and economics, to learn practical, and approachable impacts in your company today. The goal of this class is to help entrepreneurs identify the critical information that matters, and work to define the requirements of your businesses reporting goals and financial statements. The session will last about an hour and will be followed by open CFO office hours, where open questions about active financial challenges are requested for an open discussion that always benefits all. Dan started his career as a Big-4 CPA and consultant, and has worked with dynamic startups and large national companies. For a decade he has been providing high-quality Fractional CFO services to startups and small businesses to help prepare for a fundraiser, build out their accounting platforms, or optimize and improve a business.

15+ year’s finance experience in startups and large companies such as EY, AOL, TIAA, Grow Computer, Family Offices and more, experience as a fractional CFO and startup educator

Workshop: Blueprint for Growth: Writing a Business Plan that Gets Results
Wednesday, November 19 | 3pm-4pm
C0-Facilitator

Dr. Adriene Wright, SBDC Business Consultant

ImpactWeek_Sponsors_SBDCFAMU

Back by popular demand! If you missed it last year, don’t miss your second chance to join this powerful, hands-on session designed for small business owners and entrepreneurs who are serious about growth and sustainability. In this engaging workshop, we’ll break down why every business needs a solid business plan, whether you’re launching, expanding, or seeking funding. You’ll get an inside look at LivePlan, a dynamic digital tool that simplifies the process. Walk away with clarity, confidence, and the tools to build a business plan that works for you.

This workshop, Co-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.

Dr. Adriene Wright is the Founder and CEO of Abelita LLC, a management consulting firm serving nonprofits, higher education, government, corporations, and small businesses. Abelita Consulting is solutions-oriented, helping clients identify and address bottlenecks that slow progress, limit productivity, and minimize impact. Dr. Adriene is passionate about fostering cohesive work environments through employee engagement and effective change management. With deep expertise in stakeholder engagement, she effectively brings innovative approaches to building sustainable communities and is known for her expertise and calm demeanor to facilitate opposing viewpoints with civility and tact.

Dr. Adriene is a published author, certified professional life coach, skilled facilitator, and an admired speaker. She received a Doctoral and a Master’s degree in Theology from Covenant and Trinity Theological Seminaries respectively, a Post Graduate executive certificate from the University of California at Irvine (UCI), and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology from Florida A&M University. Dr. Adriene is a business consultant with the Small Business Development Center at FAMU and is a certified Growth Wheel specialist. 

Josh Fegles has been with Palo Alto Software, the maker of LivePlan, since 2015, specializing in government and academic sales. He works closely with advisors, program directors, and educators who serve small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools, training, and resources to teach business planning, financial forecasting, and entrepreneurship.

 

Josh’s connection to entrepreneurship began in 2011 when he launched his first business with guidance from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). During a business planning course there, he was first introduced to LivePlan—a tool he now champions nationwide. His professional background also includes work with InsideTrack, where he supported higher education institutions in improving student success rates across the U.S. He is a graduate of Multnomah University.

Co-Facilitator

Josh Fegles, Live Plan Representative

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.

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.

DAY THREE – Workshops

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2025

Bruce Manciagli

Thriving in The Age of Adaptation:
Linking Technical Innovations with Adaptive Problem-Solving
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 9:00pm – 10:00am
Humanity has entered the Age of Adaptation, a new era that has laid bare the deficiencies of our linear, technical, siloed approaches to designing systems and innovation. Yet, this persistent framework continues to keep many companies and organizations stuck using outdated and ineffective models, strategies, and tools, hindering them from achieving greater impact and long-term success. This session will feature a new approach to leading in a world characterized by deep disruption, accelerating change, and increasing uncertainty. Through the SIE CoLab’s Adaptive Problem-Solving Framework, participants will learn about critical tools and processes to effectively frame and address complex challenges. You’ll also explore how the SIE CoLab’s Seven Adaptive Changemaker Archetypes provide the critical guidance and scaffolding to successfully address these challenges in service to people, planet, and prosperity. This dynamic, hands-on workshop will change the way you see and approach innovation. It is for all Impact Week TLH attendees across the startup, small business, investor, nonprofit, and higher education communities who are grappling with the unique challenges of our rapidly changing world, see themselves as changemakers, and are eager to help design, lead, and model a new way forward.
Bruce’s career has focused on developing the capacity of individuals, organizations, and communities to more effectively address adaptive social and environmental challenges and catalyze meaningful, systemic impact and change. His contributions to the field of Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SIE)—spanning local, state, and international contexts—include co-founding social enterprises; helping to strengthen and scale a statewide network of high-impact nonprofits; funding and facilitating cross-sector/collective impact partnerships; cultivating SIE ecosystems in higher education and in Indonesia; leading social innovation initiatives across a wide diversity of issues; raising millions and granting tens of millions of dollars to engage communities in creating lasting social value; teaching hundreds of students as an award-winning faculty member; designing and guiding international SIE immersion programs; and articulating the Adaptive SIE Framework for Transformational Systems Change, the theoretical framework that informs the SIE CoLab’s work. Bruce’s decades-long career epitomizes a transdisciplinary, sector-bridging, iterative theory-practice approach.

May Wang

The Business Model Canvas:
Explore, Refine, or Pivot Your Business
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 11:00pm – 12:00pm
Whether you’re developing a new business idea or looking to pivot an existing venture, the Business Model Canvas (BMC) is a powerful tool for evaluating key components of your business. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn what the BMC is, how to use it effectively, and how it can help you make strategic decisions. You’ll also get hands-on experience applying the tool to real-life examples — including your own ideas or ventures.

May Wang is the Student Engagement Coordinator at the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship and a seasoned international business development executive and entrepreneur. She is passionate about empowering the next generation of global business leaders through hands-on learning and mentorship.
With over a decade of experience leading international market expansion for major U.S. entertainment brands, May played a key role in launching AEG, Clear Channel Entertainment/Live Nation, and Global Spectrum into the Asian and Chinese markets. Later, she founded two successful startups focused on national-level cultural projects and large-scale touring productions — one of which was valued at $15 million.

Leonardo Georgi

Video That Converts:
The Content Blueprint for Busy Entrepreneurs
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Think video is just for influencers? Think again.
This tactical, energizing workshop is for entrepreneurs and business owners who know they should be posting content—but feel overwhelmed, uninspired, or discouraged by low engagement. You’ll learn the exact content strategies used by today’s fastest-growing brands and creators, broken down into actionable steps for real businesses with real time constraints.
One lucky attendee will even walk away with a high-quality brand video made live during the session.

Leonardo Georgi is a creative force and strategic partner for entrepreneurs and mission-driven brands. As the founder of Pollex Media, he helps businesses turn their social media presence into high-converting marketing engines through cinematic video and forward-thinking strategy.


Leo began his career in sports media, serving as Director of Social Media for Florida State Athletics, where he built and led a creative team from 3 to over 20 staff members. He scaled digital production across 18 NCAA programs, producing social content for Florida State Football and in-venue video for Doak Campbell Stadium, home to 80,000 fans.


Since launching Pollex Media, Leonardo has produced viral content for global brands like Red Bull Air Force, Royal Caribbean, Aer Lingus, and more. He led production on the world’s first airplane-to-cruise-ship parachute landing a viral campaign that earned over 3.1 million views and press coverage in Cruise Hive and Cruise Industry News.


Now a strategic partner for Impact Week TLH 2025, Leo is leading content production and organic marketing efforts to elevate the event’s visibility, amplify its speakers, and drive ticket sales through creative that converts.

Mike Dennison

Clarity Over Chaos:
Eliminate Hidden Friction and Scale with Confidence
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

In this session, business owners and leaders will learn how to spot and eliminate the hidden friction that quietly stalls growth, drains team energy, and slows execution. Based on the Clarity Principles framework from the #1 bestselling book, Clarity Principles, this workshop will help you identify critical misalignments across people, process, and leadership while walking away with practical tools to create immediate momentum. Whether you’re scaling, stuck, or starting something new, this session will give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

Mike Dennison is the founder of Dennison Leadership Group and author of the #1 bestselling book Clarity Principles. A former senior leader at IBM, Mike was frequently tapped to turn around high-stakes projects and realign global teams. Prior to that, he was part of the leadership team that scaled an emerging software company, from $15M to $130M and built a high-performing organization with 97% employee satisfaction, while positioning for IPO.

 

Today, he specializes in helping small and mid-sized businesses eliminate hidden friction, align their teams, and scale to the next level using his Clarity Principles framework. Mike has advised Fortune 100 companies and regional growth firms alike, always with the same focus: helping leaders simplify the complex, restore momentum, and build operations that run smoothly and scale powerfully. He’s also the creator of the Clarity Community, a private space for business owners and executives committed to sustainable growth.

DUE to HIGH DEMAND we are REPEATING this COURSE all THREE DAYS

Gary Cottingham, Cottingham Marketing

Find your who, sharpen your Why: Master Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning in just 45 minutes!
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Ready to supercharge your business strategy? Join us for an engaging, hands-on session where you’ll discover how to move beyond the “everyone is my customer” trap. Learn the proven framework top brands use to win loyal audiences. Through real-world examples and interactive exercises, you’ll identify your most valuable customer segments, select the right target market, and craft a powerful positioning statement that sets your brand apart.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand how to divide and evaluate your market effectively.
  • Zero in on your ideal customers with practical targeting methods.
  • Create a simple, memorable positioning statement for your brand.
  • Apply actionable tools you can use immediately to grow smarter and faster.

Born and raised in Rochester, NY, and later moving to Florida for his career, Gary Cottingham has over 40 years of experience in management-level consumer marketing and data analytics. He has leveraged his knowledge, skill, and expertise to grow Cottingham Marketing (https://www.cottmark.com) into a recognized leader in customer segmentation, targeting, and positioning, as well as data analytics. He serves Retail companies and their agencies across the United States and around the world through consulting and data brokerage. While his greatest experience is with Retail, if your business involves targeting Consumer audiences, Gary can help you grow your business cost-effectively.

Gary retired from Publix Marketing in 2023, where he led the Loyalty, Personalization, & CRM Analytics Team, responsible for defining Publix’s Target Customer segments and building target audiences for a wide range of marketing campaigns.

Tiffany Lewis

“From Solopreneur to Collective Builder: A Hands-On Collaboration Lab“
Wednesday, November 20 | 2pm-3pm
This isn’t your average workshop — it’s an interactive, real-time collaboration lab. Attendees will walk through guided prompts, partner activities, and group brainstorming challenges designed to unlock who they should collaborate with, what they can offer others, and how to structure partnerships that actually work. Participants will: Map out their “value lane” in business. Identify gaps and find complementary collaborators. Create a mini “collaboration pitch deck” they can use to approach new partner. Leave with at least 2 real-time connection leads in the room. This workshop will help entrepreneurs move from dreaming alone to scaling together — stronger and smarter.
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.

Gustavo Ramos

Chaos to Clarity: Creating Effective SOPs Your Team Will Actually Follow⁠
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Do you lead a business or a team and find yourself handling most issues, answering the same questions, or spending way too long training a new employee? There’s a better way! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to create and implement people-driven Standard Operating Procedures that your team will actually use. Walk away with a custom SOP for a key business process, designed to save time, reduce errors, and allow you to lead instead of micromanage.

With a Master’s in Exercise Physiology, Gustavo started his career helping beginners in strength training. After years of transforming fitness businesses, he expanded into other industries and is your go-to expert for creating business systems that actually work. When he’s not helping businesses run better, you might catch him sharing his expertise at national conferences or geeking out about the latest operational efficiency tools!

Dr. Michelle Gamble

The Entrepreneur’s Compass: Navigating Profit, People, and Purpose for Sustainable Success
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 3:00pm – 4:00pm

In today’s dynamic business landscape, true success extends beyond financial gain. This interactive workshop, “The Entrepreneur’s Compass,” will explore the transformative power of the Triple Bottom Line – a framework that prioritizes Profit, People, and Purpose. We will delve into why social responsibility is not just an ethical imperative but a strategic advantage for entrepreneurs, fostering stronger brands, attracting top talent, and building enduring customer loyalty. Furthermore, we’ll navigate the often-complex world of tax benefits specifically designed to support socially responsible businesses, providing actionable insights on how to structure your venture for optimal financial and societal returns. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools to build a profitable enterprise that makes a meaningful positive impact on the world.

DR. MICHELLE GAMBLE, DN is the co-founder and Director of ITAV Ministry, Inc. and Sankofa Healing and Enrichment, Inc. She is an author, educator, mentor, and speaker who specializes in assisting persons with chronic illness to transform their health. She has been a professional educator for over 25 years and a health care provider for over 20 years.

Dr. Gamble is known as The Holistic Healing Doctor who has guided many people in the journey of transforming their health and becoming empowered to break free from chronic illness and previous dependency upon drugs, surgeries, and other medical disease management interventions.

She has a Bachelors in Mathematics and English with an emphasis on Secondary School Education, a Masters and Doctorate in Naturology. Dr. Gamble is a board-certified alternative health care provider with advanced training and certification in various areas of health.

Maria Bryan – Owner, Maria Bryan Creative (Speaker, Trainer & Podcast Host)

The Entrepreneur’s Compass: Navigating Profit, People, and Purpose for Sustainable Success
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm

What does it really take to grow an engaged email list, with zero ad spend? In this session, you’ll hear how one business owner grew their list from 0 to 4,000 subscribers using organic, relationship-driven strategies. We’ll explore audience growth, connection, and the systems that make it sustainable. Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow with more intention, you’ll leave inspired and ready to take the next step.

Maria helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful, impactful, and trauma-informed stories. The combination of well-crafted messages, visuals, and audio can change worldviews, open up wallets, and get people to show up.

Maria supports storytellers to safely gather and tell painful stories. She provides you with an interactive virtual or in-person training for your upcoming conference, summit, retreat, or for your teams and members. Storytellers will feel equipped with actionable insights and resources grounded in kindness and empathy. 

Kimasia Ayers – The Ultimate Muse

The Power of Cross-Disciplinary Innovation:
How Creativity Bridges Diverse Fields
Thursday, Nov. 20 | 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Innovation doesn’t live in silos; it thrives at the intersections. In this hands-on, high-impact workshop, participants will explore how merging creativity with fields like sociology, technology, and business unlocks powerful ideas and lasting solutions. Drawing from real-world frameworks like the Axis of Assimilation and the Spiderweb Theory, this session will equip attendees with a blueprint for applying cross-disciplinary thinking to their own work. Whether they’re founders, strategists, creatives, or change agents, attendees will learn how to reframe problems, design bold strategies, and identify hidden opportunities through a creative lens. The session will include guided activities, collaborative breakouts, and rapid case studies to ensure insights are immediately actionable.

Kimasia Ayers is an international public speaker, consultant, and creative professional whose work sits at the intersection of sociology, strategy, and creative technology. With nearly a decade of experience, she specializes in transforming complex sociological frameworks into accessible, actionable insights that empower brands, platforms, and communities to design with intention.
She is the creator of several sociological theories, terminologies, and frameworks that explore how people navigate identity, power, and belonging. Her work challenges conventional approaches to inclusion by offering real-world strategies for reimagining digital and physical ecosystems, immersive storytelling, and strategic marketing and communication through a culturally conscious lens.
Kimasia has led transformative workshops, keynotes, and presentations across national and international stages, advocating for systems-level innovation rooted in equity, narrative power, and community intelligence. With a rare blend of sociological rigor, multimedia fluency, and visionary thinking, she continues to inspire future-forward change in the industries shaping our world.

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