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John Carstens is the Chief Creative Officer at Team DDB (Omnicom), leading creative efforts for the US Army account—a massive, multidisciplinary consortium of 11+ agencies. A seasoned writer, strategist, and creative leader, he specializes in building and managing large teams to deliver innovative storytelling across brand categories. His career includes roles at SapientNitro (where he led digital creative departments), Apple, DDB, and others, with a focus on creative diversification, research-driven ideas, diverse perspectives, and evolving industry trends like AI in advertising. He's appeared on podcasts such as "How I F*cked Up" (discussing leading the Army account and lessons from setbacks) and others on unlocking ideas through perspective and storytelling.

Allison Arling-Giorgi is the Head of Brand at Method1, a Chicago-based advertising and strategy agency focused on behavioral science-driven marketing. She's a seasoned brand strategist and behavioral-science expert with deep experience in consumer insights, particularly for Millennials and Gen Z. She harnesses human behavior research to build memorable brands, craft high-impact campaigns, and drive business results—often in CPG, spirits, and cultural trends. Her work emphasizes mental availability, habit formation, memorability over precision, and empathetic, human-centered approaches amid information overload.

Nick Miaritis is a prominent advertising and marketing executive, serving as Global Chief Client Officer at VaynerMedia (a leading creative and media agency under VaynerX), based in New York. He joined in 2018 and leads brand partnerships, accelerates client growth, builds new agency capabilities, and oversees high-profile campaigns (e.g., Super Bowl work for clients like WK Kellogg Co).Prior to VaynerMedia, he spent 12 years at Saatchi & Saatchi, where he worked globally, led teams on iconic campaigns—including the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity Grand Prix-winning “It's a Tide Ad” Super Bowl spot and Miller High Life's “One Second Ad”—and honed expertise in integrated creative, strategy, and brand storytelling.

Jake Kitchiner is a UK-based entrepreneur and Co-Founder of ChannelCrawler (channelcrawler.com), a powerful YouTube influencer discovery and database tool. Launched after he identified a gap in existing solutions while working on prior ventures, the platform allows users to search and filter YouTube channels using 40+ criteria—including category, subscriber size, location, engagement metrics, and more—to facilitate targeted influencer partnerships, sponsorships, and marketing campaigns.

Steve Katelman is a veteran advertising and digital media executive with nearly three decades of experience in strategic partnerships, media innovation, and growth for major agencies and tech platforms.He currently serves as Chief Partnership Officer at Fyllo (a compliance-first SaaS platform for regulated industries like cannabis, sports betting, and alcohol), where he oversees partnerships across all business lines since joining in 2022 after briefly retiring. Previously, he spent nearly 30 years at Omnicom Media Group (including 14–15 years as Executive Vice President of Global Strategic Partnerships), pioneering digital vision, client success strategies, and forward-thinking leadership in media and advertising.Recognized as an industry visionary, he's served on advisory boards (e.g., Affinity Answers) and is praised for his uncanny ability to drive client outcomes through innovation and transparency. He attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is based in Omaha, Nebraska, with a strong LinkedIn presence (7K+ followers) sharing insights on digital trends, events like CES 2026, and personal adventures (e.g., philanthropy with Team Dayā in Senegal, building schools).He's active on social media (@katelman on Instagram) and known for his engaging, human-centered approach in a fast-evolving industry.

Brian Gross is the President of Bach to Rock (often called "America's Music School"), a leading national franchise of contemporary music schools offering private and group lessons in guitar, piano, drums, voice, bass, and more for students of all ages and skill levels. He has held this role since 2011, after serving as Vice President of Marketing and Operations starting in 2008.Bach to Rock emphasizes a unique, band-based learning approach where students play the music they love together, rather than traditional classical methods—focusing on modern genres to make lessons engaging and fun.Gross brings a strong business background to the role, with prior experience in brand management at major companies including Kraft Foods, Procter & Gamble (Cover Girl), Bank of America, and Sylvan Learning Centers. He also served as president of Rileyroos (children's footwear) and general manager of Barton-Cotton Inc. (direct marketing/print production). He holds a B.S. in Economics from the University of Delaware and an MBA from UNC's Kenan-Flagler Business School.A lifelong music enthusiast (classic rock and country fan—favorite band Guns N' Roses, first concert AC/DC), he's a beginner guitar player and "wanna-be drummer." He's based in the Bethesda, Maryland area, active on LinkedIn (@briancgross), and frequently discusses franchising, music education innovation, and second-career entrepreneurship in interviews and industry features.

Bill Lea is the Vice President of Media at rEvolution (often stylized as Revolution), a global integrated sports marketing agency headquartered in Chicago.With over 18 years in media planning and buying, he's a strategic, analytics-driven leader specializing in digital, sponsorship, and performance media for sports and entertainment brands. He's led media strategies for clients like Betfred Sportsbook (where rEvolution was named Media AOR in 2022), handled major campaigns including the College Basketball Crown, and progressed through roles at the agency from Group Director/Director of Media Services to VP. He's based in the Palos Hills, IL area, graduated from Carthage College, and is praised for deep expertise in digital media markets and solving complex challenges.

Isha Patel is the co-founder and CEO of Kale (kalecard.com), a New York-based startup platform that lets everyday social media users (superfans, not just big influencers) earn cash rewards for sharing authentic content about brands they love—like Rare Beauty, Glossier, Inc., sweetgreen, and Chili's.She previously worked at LinkedIn (where she met co-founder Luis Molina), graduated from University of California, Berkeley, and has been recognized on Inc. Magazine's 2025 Female Founders 500 list for scaling the company and tripling revenue. Kale focuses on turning genuine advocacy into scalable marketing for brands.

Lindsey Carnett is an accomplished entrepreneur, marketing executive, and public relations expert. She is the Founder, CEO, and President of Marketing Maven, an integrated marketing and PR agency she established in 2009, specializing in helping businesses grow through strategic communications, digital marketing, and reputation management. A graduate of California Lutheran University with a B.A. in Spanish and Communications (emphasis in Public Relations and Advertising), she was an NCAA collegiate women's soccer captain and an officer in the American Marketing Association during her college years. With over two decades of experience, Carnett is also a Forbes contributor, keynote speaker, bestselling author (notably of The Marketing Maven Method), fractional CMO, and board director.

Dustin Black is the Executive Creative Director at Preston Spire, where he leads the agency's award-winning creative team with curiosity and bold thinking. With over 25 years of experience in the advertising industry, he's worked at top agencies including BBDO Worldwide, Colle McVoy, MONO, and Carmichael Lynch, crafting standout work for brands like Perdue Farms, Frank's RedHot, Craftsman, Subaru of America, and MSNBC. Dustin's creative leadership has earned recognition from Clio, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, The One Show, D&AD, Effie Worldwide, and other major industry awards. Beyond advertising, he's the author of The Book of SPAM, an entrepreneur, and an advocate for blending strategy, art direction, and human insight in creative work.

Robb Hittner is a Co-Founder of Hackett Brooks, a creative agency built around using comedy and humor as a strategic driver in advertising and workplace culture. Steve Mallory is a Co-Founder of Hackett Brooks, where he brings creative and storytelling expertise to the agency's mission of making advertising fun and culturally relevant. Alongside Robb Hittner and others, he helps lead creative strategy that blends humor, narrative, and brand communication to build deeper audience engagement.Jordan Atlas is a Partner at Hackett Brooks, the creative company built on the belief that humor is a strategic advantage. With a background spanning creative leadership, strategy, and modern brand building, Jordan helps brands and teams unlock more human, culturally resonant work. He brings a sharp point of view on creativity, culture, and collaboration, shaped by years of experience building award-winning ideas and leading creative teams.

Michael Ellery is the Chief Creative Officer at Sparks, a creative agency known for experiential design and large-scale event marketing. With more than two decades of experience in creative strategy and execution, Michael leads creative direction and innovation, helping brands deliver immersive, memorable experiences across events, environments, and integrated campaigns. His background includes senior creative roles and a foundation in design, blending strategic thinking with hands-on creative leadership to elevate brand engagement.

Cliff Kim is a senior leader at Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, currently serving as Vice President of Growth Strategy, Digital Products and President of Fender Play, the company's digital learning platform. At Fender, he leads efforts to grow both physical and digital business through data-driven insights, conversion optimization, and consumer research, helping evolve how players discover and engage with Fender's products and services. During his tenure he played a key role in initiatives like PlayThrough, which significantly expanded Fender Play's user base, and contributed insights that shaped resources like the Beginners Hub for new musicians. Before Fender, Kim held analytics and strategy roles at major brands including Live Nation Entertainment, ESPN, and Yahoo!, blending analytics with storytelling to drive growth and strategic decision-making. He is a graduate of the University of California, Riverside and is based in Los Angeles.

Roy Sexton is the Chief Marketing Officer at Vedder, where he leads the firm's overall marketing strategy, brand positioning, and business development initiatives across the legal sector. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing and strategic communications—including nearly 15 years focused in legal marketing—Roy has shaped campaigns, digital outreach, and organizational storytelling that support growth and differentiation for global professional services. He has also served in leadership roles within the Legal Marketing Association (LMA), including as International President, and is recognized for his contributions to marketing leadership and inclusive leadership in the industry.

Gigi Harville is an entrepreneur, talent manager, and CEO of The Paul Harville Group, a Los Angeles–based management and consulting company focused on music artists and social media creators. With over 25 years in the music and creator space, she helps talent develop their brands, build careers, and navigate digital strategy. Harville's work has earned media recognition and industry nominations — including at the Black Girl Digital Awards — and she has partnered with major brands and platforms to elevate underrepresented voices in entertainment and digital media. She's also a songwriter, vocal producer, and mentor committed to helping emerging talent find long-term success.

Marcus Chan is the founder and CEO of Venli Consulting Group and the creator of Real B2B Sales Training, where he helps B2B sales teams drive predictable revenue through modern, buyer-centric selling. A former enterprise sales leader, Marcus is known for his practical, no-fluff approach to sales execution, coaching teams on pipeline strategy, deal acceleration, and closing complex enterprise accounts. He's a frequent speaker and advisor to fast-growing B2B organizations looking to level up sales performance.

Joy Farber Kolo is the Global Chief Brand Officer at Weber Shandwick, a leading global communications and integrated marketing firm. With more than 28 years at the agency, she has held senior leadership roles—guiding strategy, client relationships, and award-winning work that spans earned media, brand building, and integrated communications. Joy's career reflects deep expertise in developing insights-driven campaigns and nurturing creative talent across global teams.

Dan Gilbert is the co-founder and CEO of Brainlabs, a global performance marketing agency known for its data-driven approach and rapid growth. Since founding Brainlabs in the UK, Dan has helped scale the company into an international organization by blending rigorous experimentation, technology, and a strong people-first culture. He's widely recognized for pushing transparency, testing, and measurable impact in modern marketing.

Celia Jones, JD is a seasoned marketing and brand strategist currently serving as Global Chief Marketing Officer at FINN Partners, a leading integrated public relations and communications agency. With more than 20 years of experience, she has shaped the marketing and brand narratives of disruptive agencies and challenger brands, blending brand strategy, integrated communications, cultural storytelling, and thought leadership. Before FINN, Celia was CEO of The Escape Pod, where she led the agency to multiple Ad Age Small Agency of the Year honors, and she has held senior marketing roles at Havas and Critical Mass. She holds a Juris Doctor from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and a BA in English from the University of Notre Dame.

Matt Johnson is a creative leader at Haymaker, where he works on building bold, insight-driven campaigns that help brands stand out in culture. With experience across strategy and creative development, Matt is known for turning sharp ideas into effective, modern marketing that connects with real audiences and drives business impact.

Silvia Cavalcanti is a seasoned brand strategist and marketing leader known for her blend of creative problem-solving and business strategy across culture, technology, and experience design. She currently leads brand, marketing, communications, and PR for Endeavor globally, where she shapes the organization's narrative, thought leadership, and engagement across 45+ countries. Prior to this role, she served as Head of Brand Experience Strategy for Publicis Sapient North America and held strategic leadership positions at major agencies, working on iconic brands and expansive storytelling initiatives. Silvia began her career in business consulting, co-founded multiple startups, and has a track record of building high-performing teams and driving impactful brand transformation across industries.

Avery Akkineni is a marketing and innovation executive currently serving as Chief Marketing Officer at VaynerX, where she leads brand strategy, content, events, and communications across the global network of modern communication companies. In her seven years at VaynerX, she has driven international growth — including building VaynerMedia APAC to over 150 employees and opening key offices in Singapore, Bangkok, Sydney, and Tokyo — and has been instrumental in launching new ventures within the organization. In 2021, Avery founded Vayner3, a consultancy focused on helping enterprises navigate emerging technologies such as AI and Web3, earning recognition as an Ad Age Web3 Trailblazer and AI thought leader. She also holds advisory roles on councils for platforms including Salesforce, Meta, and TikTok, and is a sought-after speaker on modern marketing and digital innovation. Based in Miami, FL, she combines experience in global operations with a forward-thinking approach to brand growth.

Linda Bethea is a seasoned consumer marketing leader and Chief Marketing Officer of Danone, where she oversees best-in-class strategy and brand growth for Danone's portfolio of beloved food and beverage brands including Silk, Activia, Oikos, International Delights, LLC, evian, and Happy Family Brands (Nurture Inc). She brings more than two decades of experience leading iconic CPG brands and driving transformative marketing initiatives across major companies. Before joining Danone, Linda held senior marketing roles at Diageo, where she led the turnaround of Captain Morgan in North America, and spent over a decade at PepsiCo, contributing to standout results on brands such as Lay's, @LifeWtr, and Bubly Sparkling Water. Linda holds a BA from Tufts University and an MBA in Marketing from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management.

Aja Bradley Kemp is a seasoned marketer, experiential event designer, and founder of Conversate Collective, a brand experience agency that helps lifestyle, tech, and consumer brands build meaningful relationships through shared experiences. With over 20 years of experience growing brands like Expedia Group, MAC Cosmetics, Sunglass Hut, and Reebok, she's known for creating campaigns and events that connect audiences with culture and community. A natural connector and storyteller, Aja also founded the Love My Curls Festival, the first multicultural beauty event celebrating curly and textured hair in Australia and New Zealand. Her work blends strategic marketing, event design, and cultural engagement to help brands spark connection and loyalty. Making the Moment Podcast - https://lnkd.in/g37pyPev Aja Bradley Kemp LinkedIn - https://lnkd.in/gA-icR7A Off the Field NFL Wives Annual Charity Fashion Show Tickets - https://lnkd.in/gcejjZnA

Filip Keuppens is a seasoned sales and marketing executive serving as Chief Executive Officer of The Pickle Juice Company, the functional beverage brand known for its purpose-built drinks that help stop muscle cramps and support hydration. He has led the company's strategic growth and global expansion after joining the leadership team in 2015—shaping distribution, branding, and international market development. Prior to Pickle Juice®, Keuppens built his career in sales roles at H.J. Heinz Co., Warner Home Video, and 20th Century Fox Productions, and brings a background in sports, hospitality, and team leadership to his work in pioneering an innovative category in sports nutrition. Under his leadership, the company has secured growth investment to scale product innovation and broaden retail presence while maintaining its mission of functional performance hydration.

Rishad Tobaccowala is a globally renowned author, speaker, advisor, and marketing innovator with over four decades of experience helping organizations and leaders reinvent themselves in times of transformation. He most recently served as Global Chief Strategist and Chief Growth Officer at Publicis Groupe, one of the world's largest communications and marketing firms, and remains a Senior Advisor to the company. Rishad's work spans brand strategy, digital innovation, and future trends in business—earned him recognition as one of Bloomberg Businessweek's top business leaders and one of Time Inc.'s five “Marketing Innovators.” He is the author of Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in the Age of Data and Rethinking Work, and he publishes a widely read weekly thought letter, The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers of the Past Initiative.https://rishadtobaccowala.com/blog/career-lessons-revisited

Siddharth Bajaj is a seasoned marketing executive and Chief Marketing Officer at Dr Batra's Positive Clinics, where he leads brand communications and growth strategies. With around 20 years of experience across B2C and B2B sectors—including BFSI, supply chain, AgriTech, FMCG, and healthcare—he's known for driving impactful campaigns, strategic planning, and customer engagement initiatives globally. His work blends strategic vision with MarTech to optimize omnichannel outreach, and he's led brand launches and high-visibility marketing efforts across international markets. Siddharth holds a master's in advertising and public relations and a bachelor's in computer science.

Jeff Gray is the founder of AgeTech Connect, a community and platform focused on advancing innovation for aging and longevity. He works at the intersection of startups, healthcare, technology, and investment, connecting founders, operators, and industry leaders who are building solutions to improve the lives of older adults. Through AgeTech Connect, Jeff helps surface emerging trends, foster collaboration, and accelerate growth across the AgeTech ecosystem.

Hala Madanat, PhD, MS is a distinguished public health leader serving as Vice President for Research and Innovation and Albert W. Johnson Distinguished Professor of Public Health at San Diego State University (SDSU). She oversees SDSU's research enterprise, supports research advancement and innovation, and helps drive programs like the Mission Valley Innovation District and university startup incubation efforts. Dr. Madanat's research focuses on health promotion, behavioral science, and reducing health disparities through community-engaged work, including NIH-funded projects addressing cancer equity, obesity prevention, and public health workforce development. She has led significant research growth and strategic initiatives that expanded SDSU's research impact and funding. Dr. Madanat holds degrees in biological sciences, community health sciences, and sociology with a public health minor.

Josh Metz is the Chief Marketing Officer at Sesh Products, a fast-growing nicotine pouch brand focused on modern, smoke-free alternatives. With extensive experience leading marketing strategies for innovative consumer brands—spanning CMO roles at Sesh, Slushy, and ZitSticka™—Josh blends creative thinking with strategic growth to elevate brand presence and engagement in competitive markets. At Sesh, he's helping shape the brand's momentum and visibility through high-impact partnerships and audience-focused campaigns, connecting products with today's lifestyle-driven consumers.

Ben Kaplan is the Chief Marketing Officer at Nexxen International, where he leads global marketing and communications to elevate the company's brand and narrative across the advertising ecosystem. He joined Nexxen in 2023, bringing over 14 years of experience across the digital advertising supply chain. Prior to Nexxen, Kaplan held senior marketing and product roles at PubMatic, X (formerly Twitter) and Meredith Corporation, working at the intersection of product, brand, and commercial strategy. He holds an M.B.A. from NYU Stern School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts from Wesleyan University, with additional executive education from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and the Product Marketing Alliance. His work focuses on shaping differentiated marketing approaches in programmatic, CTV, and video advertising.

Paul Woolmington is a veteran media, advertising, and communications leader and the CEO and Founding Partner of Canvas Worldwide, a creatively driven global media and communications agency known for its innovation and multicultural focus. With more than 25 years in the industry, he previously co-founded Naked Communications Americas and founded The Media Kitchen, building a reputation for redefining traditional marketing and media strategy. Recognized by Fast Company as one of the “ten most creative and innovative people in marketing and advertising,” Woolmington champions diversity, creativity, and integration across media, brand, and digital platforms. He has held senior roles at major global holding companies and serves as an advisor and advocate on industry boards while frequently speaking on the future of advertising and data-driven storytelling.

Bill Burton is the Founding Partner and Chief Executive Officer of Bryson Gillette, a minority-owned strategic communications and public affairs firm he launched in 2020. He is an experienced political and communications strategist who previously served as Deputy White House Press Secretary and senior adviser during the Obama administration and as National Press Secretary for then-Senator Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Over more than two decades, Burton has advised elected officials, corporations, advocacy organizations, and nonprofits on high-stakes campaigns and public communications, helping leaders clarify complex issues and build authentic connections with audiences. Based in Santa Barbara, California, he also combines strategic insight with creativity to support campaigns on issues from climate change and education reform to voting rights and social justice.

Vikrant Mathur is a Silicon Valley media and technology executive with over 15 years of experience in building and scaling digital video and connected TV products. He is Co-Founder of Future Today Inc., a company that operates hundreds of OTT (over-the-top) streaming channels across verticals like travel, food, kids, health, and entertainment on web, mobile, and connected TV platforms. At Future Today, Mathur leads content partnerships, platform monetization, and strategic growth initiatives. Before founding Future Today, he held senior product and technology roles at startups and established companies, including product leadership positions where he helped drive acquisitions and product expansion.

April Guidone is the Chief Operating Officer of SMAC Entertainment, a talent management, brand incubator, licensing, and content company co-founded by Michael Strahan and Constance Schwartz - Morini. She oversees the company's overall business strategy, including revenue growth, brand development, talent management, and content production. Jose Diaz is the Executive Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Communications at SMAC Entertainment, where he leads talent management, brand partnerships, content development, and media strategy. With over a decade of experience in entertainment, sports, and consumer culture, Diaz works closely with high-profile talent and helps produce and grow multi-platform initiatives, including television content and branded ventures.

Erica Fieldman is a co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Unplugged Collective, a community and experiential networking organization focused on creating meaningful, face-to-face professional connections through curated events and experiences. She leads the company's marketing strategy to foster authentic networking communities beyond traditional digital interactions.Mike Richter is the Co-Founder and CEO of Unplugged Collective, a company focused on redefining professional networking by creating experiential, face-to-face events that foster authentic human connections in the advertising, media, and broader business communities. Under his leadership, Unplugged Collective hosts immersive gatherings like Strangers No More that bring people together through engaging activities and shared experiences — moving beyond traditional transactional networking toward deeper relationship building. Richter and his co-founders draw on extensive industry experience to build events and programs that help professionals connect meaningfully in person.

Chad Waetzig is a seasoned marketing executive best known for his role as Chief Marketing Officer at Crunch Fitness, where he leads global marketing and brand strategy. He has more than two decades of experience in strategic marketing and brand leadership across industries including fitness, hospitality, consumer products, and entertainment. Before joining Crunch, Waetzig held senior marketing roles at companies like Elizabeth Arden's Red Door Spas, Equinox/Blink Fitness, The Walt Disney Company, Marriott International, Starwood Hotels' Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, and Procter & Gamble. He holds a BS in Business Administration from The University of Kansas.

Chad Maxwell is an advertising and media executive with deep experience in growth, partnerships, and revenue strategy, shaped in part by his time at KSM, where he worked closely with brands and agencies to drive performance across digital media channels. Known for his ability to align strategy, execution, and relationships, Chad brings a pragmatic, results-focused approach to scaling media programs and solving complex advertising challenges.

Erica (Wolf) Parker is a research and insights leader at The Harris Poll, where she works with brands to translate consumer attitudes, cultural trends, and data-driven insights into clear, actionable strategy. Her work helps organizations better understand audiences and make smarter decisions rooted in public opinion. Gary Topiol An established leader in market research technology space with a strong track record of driving innovation and success. With a passion for pushing the boundaries of software development, and how this can be used to revolutionise the insights industry, he is now bringing Harris Quests AI-infused survey solution – QuestDIY – to market.

Michael Stich is a creative leader at Court Avenue, where he helps brands grow through culturally relevant, insight-driven advertising and integrated brand experiences. With a background spanning strategy, creative, and innovation, he's known for building work that connects business objectives with meaningful storytelling across channels. At Court Avenue, Michael partners closely with clients to shape modern brands through bold ideas, emerging technology, and strong creative craft.

Greg March is the Partner & CEO of Noble People, an independent media agency with offices in New York. He leads media planning, buying, and strategic communications for brands like BJ's Wholesale Clubs, Stripe, Mike's Hot Honey, and Atlassian. Prior to Noble People, he spent seven years at Wieden+Kennedy New York, where he helped build the agency's digital media practice and served as Director of Media Strategy, working with clients including Nike, ESPN, Booking.com, and ABC.

Steve Cundari is an advertising and media executive and the Founder & CEO of Summit House, a growth-focused media company that partners with brands and agencies to drive performance across digital channels. With a background spanning media strategy, partnerships, and revenue growth, Steve has built Summit House into a trusted partner known for combining data, relationships, and execution to deliver measurable results. He's recognized for his hands-on leadership style and deep understanding of the evolving media and ad-tech landscape.

Charles Ifegwu is a seasoned marketing, creative, and brand strategy leader with nearly two decades of experience driving growth at the intersection of creator, culture, and commercial marketing. Most recently, he served as Managing Director of the U.S. operations for THE FIFTH, an award-winning social creator and creative agency based at FOX Studios in Los Angeles, where he led strategy, campaign execution, creative initiatives, and agency operations for major brand partners. Before that, Charles held senior roles including VP of Client Partnerships at MOCEAN, where he helped expand the agency's client base and deepen strategic relationships across entertainment and consumer brands. In 2025, he founded CONVERGENCE, where he now serves as Founder & CEO, continuing his work in marketing, brand development, and building platforms that merge creator influence with strategic business outcomes. Charles holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arizona and his career spans influencer marketing, talent management, and new venture development.

Scott Allison is the co-founder and Global Chairman (formerly CEO) of Allison Worldwide, a major global integrated communications and marketing firm he helped launch in 2001 with a vision for a people-centric, entrepreneurial agency that could compete on the world stage. In addition to his communications career, Scott also co-founded SLAM Films, a U.S.-based production company, and helped establish a related UK production entity, The Bridge Film Company Ltd.—ventures aimed at creating and producing film projects, including documentary work such as The Bridge. After decades at the helm of the agency, Scott has transitioned into an advisor role with Allison Worldwide as new executive leadership guides the next chapter of the business.

Alexandre Kazuo Kubo & Lucas Ribeiro, authors of Principle: 128 Kazuo Kubo and Lucas Ribeiro are Brazilian advertising creatives with over 20 years of experience at top global agencies, including McCANN New York , CP+B, BETC, Hill Holliday, and Africa. They've contributed to campaigns for brands like The Coca-Cola Company, BMW Group, Gatorade, PUMA Group, Smirnoff, and ESPN, earning recognition at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, D&AD, One Show, Clio, and ADC. Both also mentor emerging talent and co‑authored Principle: @128 Principles to Become a Creative in an Advertising Agency, a career guide offering practical advice for newcomers navigating agency life.

Stephen Larkin is the Managing Director of Growth and Development at GALE, where he leads initiatives to expand the agency's reach and accelerate new business opportunities. With three decades of experience in growth strategy, corporate development, and marketing, Stephen has worked across top agencies—including Erich & Kallman and R/GA helping brands and organizations build stronger market presence and impactful relationships. His background includes spearheading high-profile assignments for clients such as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences , the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, and the Golden Globes, blending strategic insight with creative execution.

Barbara Emener Karasek is the CEO and Co-Owner of Paradise Advertising & Marketing, Inc., an award-winning full-service agency specializing in tourism, hospitality, and lifestyle brands. With a global marketing career spanning leadership roles at organizations such as SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. & Entertainment, PGA TOUR, NASCAR, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Barbara brings deep expertise in brand strategy, partnership negotiation, and consumer engagement. She's also co-founder of AiOpti Media LLC, a data and analytics firm that leverages AI to improve media targeting and performance. A Furman University and University of South Florida alumna, Barbara has been recognized among HSMAI's Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Sales, Marketing, Revenue Optimization and Distribution for her impact in hospitality and marketing.

Chris Perkins is the founder and CEO of Model B, a creative agency focused on building modern brands through strategy, design, and storytelling. With a background spanning brand development, creative leadership, and entrepreneurship, Chris is known for helping companies clarify who they are, what they stand for, and how they show up in culture. Under his leadership, Model B has partnered with brands to create work that's both strategically grounded and creatively distinctive.

Dana Light is a seasoned marketing executive and current Chief Marketing Officer at RIZZ, where she leads the company's strategic marketing, research, and brand initiatives to grow visibility and customer engagement. She brings deep experience in data-driven marketing, research, and brand development from previous roles including Director of Marketing and Research at WAY Capital, Inc. and VP of Marketing and Research at George Smith Partners (GSP). Dana's career spans a range of industries, where she's focused on turning insights into impactful growth strategies and elevating market presence through smart, measurable campaigns.

Menaka Gopinath is the Chief Marketing Officer at the Project Management Institute (PMI), where she leads global brand, communications, and marketing strategy with a focus on customer-centric growth and storytelling. She has built a distinguished career guiding Fortune 100 brands including The Coca-Cola Company, Apple, Nike, Uber, Procter & Gamble, and Meta, leveraging advanced analytics and integrated cross-channel programs to drive impact. Prior to PMI, Menaka served as President and COO of sustainable fashion brand Graf Lantz and led the Social Media Exchange practice at Ipsos, scaling it significantly. She is passionate about purpose-driven business and diversity in the industry and serves on the Board of Mentors for Monday Night Mentorship. Menaka holds a BA in Economics and Communications from New York University and an MBA in Finance from the University of San Francisco.

Jimmy Hutcheson is a media entrepreneur and executive known for leading iconic and digital media ventures. He is the CEO of SPIN (formerly SPIN Magazine) and the CEO of Next Management Partners, a media and tech investment firm in Los Angeles. Jimmy founded and grew Hutch Media (acquired by Zealot Networks), a digital publishing company acquired in 2015 by the founders of Maker Studios Inc (Acquired by Disney), and has partnered with major industry leaders on digital media, syndication, and revenue strategy. Across his career, he's built and scaled media businesses, led strategic growth initiatives, and forged partnerships with brands like Condé Nast, AOL, and Scripps Networks. He's also a frequent speaker on media, strategy, and digital transformation.