Summit Speakers
MC
Tony Rissley
Prepare to be inspired as Tony—Founder and CEO of Expo Auctions, seasoned live auctioneer, and charismatic improv performer—brings his dynamic stage presence, quick-thinking humor, and innovative strategies to captivate any crowd, ensuring an unforgettable and results-driven experience for all.
Opening Keynote
Michelle Cederberg
Certified Speaking Professional
Michelle Cederberg will help you set impactful goals, boost your energy, and ignite high performance by combining her expertise in kinesiology, psychology, and high-performance coaching, all while providing science-backed strategies to inspire lasting change.
The Success-Energy Equation
Tuesday, February 4, 9:15 AM – 10:00 AM
The Leadership X-Factor: Developing Skills for Extraordinary Leadership
Wednesday, February 5, 8:30 AM – 9:15 AM
Track 1
Sam Potolicchio
By attending Dr. Sam Potolicchio’s session, you’ll gain the unique opportunity to learn from one of “America’s Best Professors,” a globally recognized leadership expert who has taught at top universities like Georgetown and delivered lectures in over 85 countries, offering you invaluable insights to elevate your leadership and career.
You Aren’t Hamlet: Deciding in an Age of Information Surplus
Tuesday, February 4, 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM
Persuading Skeptics: How to Influence in a Polarized and Fragmented World
Wednesday, February 5, 9:15 AM – 10:00 AM
Track 1
Tom Himmer
Gain valuable insights on operations strategy and culture design from Tom, a seasoned expert with over 25 years of experience advising Global Fortune 1000 executives. In this session, you’ll learn actionable strategies to drive organizational success and foster impactful leadership.
Building a Culture of Customer Success
Tuesday, February 4, 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM
From Washington, DC to the Show Floor: Advocacy Engagement and Your Leadership Journey
Tuesday, February 4, 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM
Tommy Goodwin
Join Tommy Goodwin, VP of Government Affairs for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance, as he shares key insights on advocating for the $396 billion business events industry. With over 20 years of experience in government relations and a track record as a ‘Top Lobbyist,’ Tommy will provide actionable strategies to navigate policy challenges and drive industry advancement.
Jeff Quade
Tap into over 30 years of executive leadership expertise as Jeff Quade, President at GES, shares strategies for fostering innovation, enhancing service delivery, and driving business growth—empowering you to elevate your events and thrive in a competitive landscape.
Chris Schimek
Chief Operating Officer
With 25 years of expertise in operations, logistics, and strategic leadership, Chris offers invaluable insights into delivering exceptional events—don’t miss the chance to learn his secrets for building strong, lasting relationships with partners and customers.
Edward Bogan
Former Senior CIA Operations Officer
Edward Bogan, a retired CIA Operations Officer with 24 years of elite experience across global conflict zones, will share unparalleled insights that only a two-time Chief of Station can provide!
When the Signal is Lost to the Noise: The High Cost of a Failure of Imagination
Tuesday, February 4, 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM
Nicholas Johnston
Join Nicholas Johnston, Publisher at Axios and media innovator, as he brings unparalleled expertise in Smart Brevity and the evolving media landscape, leaving you with actionable insights to navigate and excel in today’s fast-paced world of news, tech, and politics.
Mastering Smart Brevity: Clear, Concise, and Impactful Communication for Leaders
Tuesday, February 4, 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM
Debbie Wemyss
Independent LinkedIn® Specialist
Leave this session inspired by a journey of reinvention, as a LinkedIn® expert with 23 years in nonprofit marketing, PR, and fundraising shares how to leverage online connections for real-world success—gain practical tips to transform your networking game!
Why You Should Pay Attention to LinkedIn
Wednesday, February 5, 8:30 AM – 9:15 AM
Track 2
Rich Stone
Leave equipped with practical strategies to streamline event management using cutting-edge technology, as the expert behind EXPOCAD® reveals how to ensure error-free operations, seamless data integration, and exceptional experiences for attendees, exhibitors, and organizers alike.
Mastering AI One Prompt at a Time
Wednesday, February 5, 9:15 AM – 10:00 AM
Track 2
Effective Wayfinding, Show Floor Technology, and Planning
Wednesday, February 5, 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM
Track 1
Nancy Drapeau
Nancy Drapeau is a 31-year market research veteran who regularly conducts industry-wide studies monitoring industry trends. Learn, explore, and understand the latest economic and industry trends.
Key Client Base for ESCA Member Businesses: The US B2B Exhibitions Industry State of the Industry and Outlook Moving Forward
Wednesday, February 5 – 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM
Track 1
Jeff McKissack
Learn how to spot trouble before it spots you in this essential session with a nationally recognized authority on threat assessment and violence prevention. With over 35 years of expertise, Jeff delivers actionable strategies to enhance safety, prevent risks, and empower you with skills to protect yourself, your team, and your organization.
Event Safety, Security & YOU!
Wednesday, February 5, 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM
Track 2
Hook, Line & Sinker
Wednesday, February 5, 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM