Breakthrough Session Block #1
Time For All Panels
Choose from six engaging panel & expert discussions…
AI in the Real World: How Businesses & Communities Are Putting It to Work
Time: 10:00–10:45 | Location: Lake Hollingsworth B
Local AI Experts
About this session
Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a buzzword or a future trend — it’s already transforming how businesses operate and how communities are served. This panel brings together leaders from diverse industries and the public sector to share how they’re applying AI in real, measurable ways.
From automating workflows and enhancing customer experiences to improving decision-making in local government, these use cases show what’s possible when innovation meets intention. You’ll hear what’s working, what lessons have been learned, and how organizations of all sizes can begin to integrate AI without losing the human touch that matters most.
Whether you’re just getting curious or already experimenting with AI, this conversation will provide clarity, inspiration, and grounded strategies to help you navigate the next wave of transformation — one smart step at a time.
Panelists include:
- Moderator, Nicole Skene
- Craig Hosking – Project Manager, Williams Fence
- Dorcas Crumbley – Entrepreneur & Owner, Black Swan Venue
- Eddie Allen – Owner, Edify
- Stacey Ansley – Founder & Business Coach, Build. Change. Impact.
Banking Blind Spots: Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
Time: 10:00–10:45 | Location: Lake Hollingsworth A
About this session
SouthState Bank, Suncoast Credit Union, MIDFLORIDA, Citizens Bank & Trust
It’s not always what you don’t have that hurts your business — it’s what you didn’t know to ask. In this candid and practical panel discussion, a group of experienced local bankers will pull back the curtain on the most common (and costly) mistakes business owners make when it comes to their financial relationships.
From poor documentation and misunderstood credit lines to missed conversations with your banker, these blind spots can quietly derail your ability to grow, scale, or survive a sudden challenge. You’ll learn what lenders really look for in your financials, how to avoid red flags, and what to put in place today to stay ready for your next opportunity.
Panelists include:
- Mike Clanton – SouthState Bank
- Brandon Martinez – Suncoast Credit Union
- Chrissy Schaff – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union
- Brian Yates – Citizens Bank & Trust
Chris Owen
 OwenCo.co
Time: 10:00–10:45 | Location: Sikes I
About this session
What if your team’s culture was your greatest competitive advantage? Based on Patrick Lencioni’s proven model, this interactive session explores the 5 key behaviors that drive cohesive, high-performing teams: trust, conflict, commitment, accountability, and results.
When these behaviors are present, teams align around purpose, communicate openly, hold each other accountable, and achieve more together — without relying on top-down pressure. You’ll learn how each behavior builds on the next and walk away with insights to assess your team’s current dynamics and identify where growth is possible.
Through real-world examples and practical application, you’ll see how this framework transforms culture from a buzzword into a blueprint for results — whether you’re leading a department, managing projects, or building a cross-functional team.
Ideal for leaders, managers, and team members who want to elevate collaboration, increase engagement, and create a culture that fuels shared success.
Nick Melillo
Nick Melillo StoryBrand Coach, New Light Consultants
Sales Mastery Workshop: How Purpose Fuels a Better Sales Process
Time: 10:00 -10:45 a.m. | Location: Parker D
About this session
Clarity sells. Purpose sustains it.
In this strategy-focused interactive session, you’ll explore how Donald Miller’s StoryBrand Sales Script transforms the sales process into a powerful, purpose-aligned experience — for you and your customer. Sales isn’t just about closing deals. When done right, it’s about clearly communicating the problem you solve, the value you bring, and why it matters.
You’ll learn how to design a sales process that flows naturally from your human wiring — one that reflects your purpose, builds trust, and guides your customers through a journey that feels less like a pitch and more like a partnership.
This session will break down the key components of a compelling sales conversation, helping you overcome confusion, reduce pressure, and create real connections that convert.
Whether you’re a seasoned closer or just getting started, you’ll leave with a framework that puts clarity, confidence, and customer experience at the heart of your sales strategy.
Robert “Ghost” Frutchey
Wraith Foundation
The F.E.A.R. Model for Business Resilience: Focus, Evaluate, Analyze, Respond
Time: 10:00–10:45 | Location: Parker C
About this session
In business, as in life, moments of pressure reveal who’s prepared — and who’s reactive. Led by a former law enforcement professional and founder of The Wraith Foundation, this breakthrough session introduces the F.E.A.R. Model — a powerful framework designed to sharpen your focus, enhance situational awareness, and guide high-stakes decision-making under pressure.
Originally developed for personal safety and threat assessment, the F.E.A.R. Model (Focus, Evaluate, Analyze, Respond) applies seamlessly to the business world — from navigating conflict and handling crises to leading through uncertainty. Attendees will explore how to stay mentally clear, evaluate risk quickly, and take confident, calculated action when the stakes are high.
Whether you’re managing a team, de-escalating a client issue, or simply striving to lead with calm in chaotic moments, this session offers practical tools that build personal resilience and create a culture of composed, purpose-driven leadership.
Guest Speaker
Purpose Factor Company
The Purpose Factor: Discovering What Drives You and Aligning It With the Work You Do
Time: 10:00–10:45 | Location: Sikes F
About this session
What if your greatest advantage in business and life wasn’t your skillset — but your clarity of purpose?
Based on the groundbreaking book The Purpose Factor by keynote speakers Gabrielle and Brian Bosché, this powerful session will help you uncover what truly drives you — and how aligning that purpose with your work can transform how you lead, serve, and grow.
Through an engaging and practical framework, you’ll explore the four elements of purpose and gain insights into how to bring more meaning and clarity to your professional journey. Whether you’re a business owner, team leader, or individual contributor, this session will equip you with tools to turn your personal purpose into professional momentum.
Breakthrough Session Block #1
Time For All Panels
Choose from six engaging panel discussions…