Area of Interest: Business Management; powered by Technology Solutions 

CMP-IS Domain A: Strategic Planning

In too many organizations, teams are stuck in the comfort of the status quo. We’re moving faster than ever, surrounded by powerful AI tools, but spending less time thinking than ever. That’s the real risk. AI doesn’t replace thinking; it exposes whether we’re doing any at all. The challenge isn’t a lack of technology. It’s a lack of curiosity, courage and clarity. Many of the processes designed to drive innovation suppress it, reinforcing existing behaviors instead of challenging them. When AI is layered onto these systems without intention, it simply accelerates what already exists.

In this keynote, Lisa Bodell challenges attendees to view AI not as a shortcut, but as a catalyst for curiosity, creativity and better decision-making. Drawing on insights from "Kill the Company" and "Why Simple Wins," she explores how organizations can simplify complexity, challenge assumptions and use AI to amplify uniquely human strengths. Through live interaction and hands-on exercises, participants will transform the room into a real-time innovation lab, stress-testing ideas, uncovering new opportunities and reimagining what’s possible. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped with practical strategies to approach change more boldly and drive meaningful innovation.

Lisa Bodell is a globally recognized innovation and leadership expert, bestselling author of "Why Simple Wins" and "Kill the Company" and founder and CEO of FutureThink, a global innovation and simplification firm. Since founding FutureThink in 2003, she has worked with leading organizations, including Google, Netflix, Pfizer and SAP. She began her career at Leo Burnett, earned her business degree from the University of Michigan and has taught innovation at American University and Fordham University.

A sought-after keynote speaker and TED speaker, Lisa is known for helping organizations challenge outdated practices, eliminate complexity and embrace innovation. She has served on advisory boards, including the World Economic Forum’s Global Agenda Council, and is recognized for making change practical through engaging stories and interactive experiences. Her work focuses on helping leaders simplify work, lead with clarity and prepare for the future.

Area of Interest: Personal Growth and Professional Development

CMP-IS Domain F: Talent Management

Resilience is often tested in moments we never see coming. In this powerful keynote, Gretchen Evans shares her journey of overcoming a devastating combat injury, navigating profound loss and finding purpose in the face of adversity. Through her remarkable story, attendees will discover how grit, perseverance and determination can help transform life’s greatest challenges into opportunities for growth and renewed purpose.

Drawing on lessons learned throughout her recovery and leadership journey, Gretchen introduces the concept of a “rope team,” a trusted network of individuals who provide support, perspective and encouragement during life’s most difficult moments. Through a message rooted in hope, healing and perseverance, attendees will gain tools to overcome setbacks, build stronger support systems and move forward with renewed purpose and confidence.

Gretchen Evans is a decorated Army veteran, Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, bestselling author of "Leading from the Front" and founder of Team UNBROKEN, the first mixed-ability team to compete in Bear Grylls’ The World’s Toughest Race. During her 27-year military career, she rose to the rank of Command Sergeant Major before a combat injury in Afghanistan in 2006 left her with a traumatic brain injury and severe hearing loss. In 2022, she received the ESPY Pat Tillman Award for Service.

Today, Gretchen shares her journey of recovery and resilience as a motivational speaker, inspiring audiences to overcome adversity and find purpose. Through her experiences in the military, leadership and adaptive athletics, she offers powerful lessons on teamwork, perseverance and the importance of building a strong support system.