Leslie Samuel is an AI strategist, keynote speaker, and emcee focused on helping organizations and teams work more effectively by leveraging artificial intelligence. A former neuroscience professor, he brings a unique perspective that combines how people learn with how work gets done in the real world.

Leslie helps professionals move beyond surface-level use of AI to practical application, enabling them to reduce administrative workload, increase efficiency, and focus more on the human aspects of their work. Whether he's delivering a keynote or hosting from the stage, his sessions are known for being high-energy, practical, and immediately applicable, leaving audiences with clear next steps they can implement right away.

A native of the picturesque Sarasota region, Walter R. Spikes Jr. possesses an intimate understanding of the luxury real estate market that only comes from being born and raised in the area. With over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, Walter has established himself as a leading figure in the Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch luxury property market.

Walter's deep-rooted connection to the region stretches back over five decades, allowing him to offer his clients an insider's perspective on the most coveted properties and neighborhoods. His innate knowledge of the local market trends, coupled with his extensive network of contacts, enables him to curate a bespoke experience for each of his discerning clients.

Nick Choat is an entrepreneur, consultant, and speaker with over 40 years of professional experience, most recently as a small business digital strategist.

His professional career began in rural East Tennessee, when as a child Nick worked at his family's country grocery store. After graduating from the University of Tennessee with degrees in Marketing and Computer Science, he held executive positions with companies such as Ernst & Young Consulting, the Boeing Company, and, most recently, The Walt Disney Company; he also wrote the international best-seller "Online or Flatline: The Small Business Owner's Guide to Digital Marketing." Nick's mission now is to bring the digital skills and experience he gained at these companies to small business owners, starting with himself.

He is currently an award-winning franchisee of Sport Clips Haircuts. He also sits on the Board of Directors for CareerSource Suncoast and the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, and is Vice-Chair of the Board of Governors at Manatee Technical College.

Nick often reflects on his transition from corporate executive to entrepreneur: the corporate world taught him to embrace innovation, and entrepreneurship taught him that innovation only sustains a small business when it's paired with community leadership.