Simone Ross

This empowering keynote explores the critical connection between authentic leadership and the principles of equity and inclusion. Through the lens of the "Agreements of Authentic Leadership Engagement," attendees will discover how genuine leadership builds trust, fuels collaboration, and creates inclusive cultures where every voice is respected and valued.

This session offers practical strategies for leaders to cultivate their authenticity to embrace equity, and emphasize the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and empathy in navigating diverse team dynamics. Attendees will learn how authenticity in leadership is instrumental in building trust and encouraging a culture of empowerment, while discovering the transformative impact of diversity and inclusion on enhancing leadership perspectives, driving innovation, and boosting organizational success. More than a framework, this keynote is a call to action, challenging leaders to examine their practices and create environments where diversity is celebrated and all team members feel seen, heard, and valued.

Danaya Wilson

In this powerful closing keynote, award-winning entrepreneur and author Danaya Wilson shares her bold journey from construction sites to boardrooms - leading and thriving in an industry where women are regularly underestimated. Drawing on her own story and her new book Changemakers Wanted, Danaya explores how women in leadership are frequently misunderstood, undervalued, and are expected to “lean in” instead of rise up to challenge broken systems.

This session will inspire attendees to embrace their influence, advocate for other women, and lead with ethical conviction and unapologetic courage. Danaya speaks to what it takes to succeed in male dominated industries without compromising your values - and why being included isn't the same as being heard. She makes the case that the future of leadership is ethical, flexible, and powered by women, offering a clear vision of what changemaking leadership truly looks like. Every attendee will receive a copy of Changemakers Wanted to continue the conversation and carry the blueprint forward.

Amber Widgery, Esq.

Although women make up just over 50% of the U.S. population, they remain underrepresented in formal leadership roles. This interactive session will explore the many ways women can contribute to their communities – from joining boards or commissions, to advocating for local issues and helping organizations better serve those around them. You’ll leave with practical strategies to get involved, build consensus, and move ideas forward – no matter your background or comfort with politics. Whether you're passionate about housing, education, equity, or the environment, this session will help you turn that passion into real-world impact.

Brenda Abdilla, PCC

Today's level of stress is no longer manageable with ten minutes of daily meditation. Navigating a career, family, and life in general now requires a new level of resilience - but the catch is that we each have a different formula for becoming resilient. In this workshop, you'll discover your own formula for stress management, learn how detemine if you're experiencing burnout (and how to avoid it), and explore how to set boundaries in your life and work. 

You'll also dive into how to deal with stress like a "boss," combat the sense of resignation in aspects of your life, process blocks and limiting beliefs, and regain focus. The session includes the Stressessment Quiz and will leave you feeling more focused, empowered, and equipped to create a life - and career - that truly works for you. 

Michèle Taylor,  Former Ambassador

Whether representing an official position on the global stage, negotiating a contract, or engaging on a more personal level with those with whom we disagree, persuasion requires courage, conviction, and flexibility. In this workshop, we will explore when to lead with boldness versus diplomacy, the importance of building a culture that respects diverse perspectives, and why understanding others’ motivations is key to achieving better outcomes. 

Melissa Doman, MA

Two members from our local Steamboat Springs business community join Melissa Doman, MA - organizational psychologist, former therapist, two-time author, and founder of The Workplace Mental Health Method™ - for an engaging interview about why mental health is a critical business priority (not an optional wellness endeavor). 

This workshop will cover the current complex barriers to workplace mental health conversations, and offer practical steps that companies can take to train their organizations on how to get these conversations right. After the interview, you'll have an opportunity to engage directly with Mel for an interactive Q&A, where she'll answer your questions and help you apply these insights to your business. Every attendee will receive a copy of Mel's book Yes, You Can Talk About Mental Health At Work (Here's Why and How To Do It Really Well), with a signing to follow. 

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