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Subject: Communication Skills clear filter
Tuesday, March 11
 

10:00am MDT

Winning with Clarity: How to Stop Confusing Your Customers and Start Building Trust SEATS AVAILABLE
Tuesday March 11, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Prairie Sage 1
Brands of all kinds struggle to build trust and demonstrate authority to their customers, but in today’s crowded digital era, this is more important than ever. Effective communication about your products, services, or organization is what sets you apart from your competitors.

The human brain is drawn to CLARITY and away from confusion. Most organizations are confusing their customers, and they don’t even know it, causing them to lose sales, and donations, or be passed up by their competition. In this session, Ian will teach you how to tell your story using the StoryBrand framework, giving you the tools to clarify your message and get your customers, donors, event attendees, or audience to respond.
You will walk away with a plan to effectively communicate about your organization and be able to start applying what you have learned that day.
Speakers
avatar for Ian Stewart

Ian Stewart

Build Trust. Demonstrate Authority., Whole Brand Agency
With a team of experienced professionals, Ian Stewart supports local and national businesses in crafting branding, messaging strategies, and content to build client trust, demonstrate authority, and increase online visibility to generate leads and drive conversations. As the founder... Read More →
Tuesday March 11, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Builder Track

11:15am MDT

Building Trust to Achieve Big Outcomes SEATS AVAILABLE
Tuesday March 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Sand Lily
Trust based philanthropy was one positive outcome of the COVID pandemic, where grant makers extended flexibility to nonprofits as we all adapted to challenging circumstances. The trust placed in us during that period allowed us to focus on the big picture, rethink our roles, and make investments in long-term outcomes rather than short-term outputs. The result was more durable solutions, driven by the communities we serve. Why is this not the norm? In this presentation I'll share why it should be and how we can get there.
Speakers
avatar for Sebastian Africano

Sebastian Africano

Executive Director, Trees, Water & People
Sebastian has worked for Trees, Water & People for 20 years, including the last seven as executive director. During this last period his primary focus has been creatively improving the viability of nonprofit careers by reducing friction in the nonprofit workplace, from both internal... Read More →
Tuesday March 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Sand Lily 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  NonProfit Track

11:15am MDT

Hit It Off: Connect, Create, and Celebrate! SEATS AVAILABLE
Tuesday March 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1
Meet other attendees by taking the plunge into this lively, fun-filled session! Break down barriers, make new friends, and have a blast together.

No stiff suits, trust falls, or awkward handshakes here! Play interactive warmups, exercises, and games designed to connect you with like-minded folks, laugh alongside each other, and celebrate each other's entrepreneurial spirits!

Whether you're a one-person powerhouse, a small business dynamo, or a nonprofit superhero, this is your chance to mingle, mix, and make memories that'll last long after the conference is over.
Speakers
avatar for Gus Vieweg

Gus Vieweg

Professional icebreaker & friendmaker, Improvisational Thinking
Gus Vieweg is a writer, educator, and emcee with over a decade of facilitation experience. He facilitates workshops for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and students who want to improve their communication, adaptability, and listening skills in a fun and engaging way. Gus's refreshing... Read More →
Tuesday March 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Social/Networking Track

1:00pm MDT

Speak Inarguably: Leadership Communication for Psychological Safety and Business Success SEATS AVAILABLE
Tuesday March 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1
Workplace conflict can arise even when everyone involved has the best of intentions. What's commonly considered "professional communication" encourages leaders to express their arguable opinions as inarguable facts. When combined with positional power, this style of communication creates a psychologically unsafe environment for all. In response, colleagues feel the need to defend, explain, and raise their voices to feel heard--increasing the chances of an unproductive conflict. Alternatively, colleagues can go silent and disengage from work. Both strategies--silence and violence--create an unhealthy work environment.

When leaders speak arguably, they get resistance. When leaders speak inarguably they get safety, engagement, and results.
Speakers
avatar for Christopher Arnold

Christopher Arnold

Transforming managers into leaders for people-first companies., Care Deeply Consulting
Christopher Arnold believes the world needs force-for-good businesses to succeed. He founded Care Deeply Consulting in 2018 to transform managers into leaders so people-first companies can grow. As principal advisor, he teaches conscious leaders how to leverage their care to navigate... Read More →
Tuesday March 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Builder Track

1:00pm MDT

5 Simple Techniques to Help With Startup Stress For You and Your Team SEATS AVAILABLE
Tuesday March 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Foxtail 2
During the session I will be workshopping these 5 techniques in the following order, and the attendees will experience a measurable release in stress levels, while learning tools they can use themselves in their day to day challenges. First we will introduce the techniques, while also introducing concepts for perspective and reframing of their opportunities.

1. Breath exercise
A simple breathing exercise to help immediately calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress while increasing focus and clarity.

2. Reframing/Take Two Exercise
A cognitive technique to help shift perspective by “reframing” stressful situations in a more positive or productive light.

3. EFT (Tapping)
EFT combines acupressure and neuro linguistic programming (NLP) to release emotional tension by tapping specific meridian points while focusing on stressors.

4. Hero’s Exercise
Participants identify three heroes or role models, focusing on the traits they admire. This exercise helps individuals recognize those same qualities within themselves.

5. Gratitude Exercise
A powerful tool to reduce stress by intentionally focusing on gratitude, promoting positive changes in brain function.

Concepts we will introduce:

Guided Neuroplasticity
A practice that intentionally rewires the brain by focusing on empowering thoughts and habits, improving stress resilience over time.

Guided Visualization
A relaxation technique where participants use mental imagery to reduce stress and enhance performance in stressful situations,

Wabi-Sabi and Kintsugi
Introduction to the Japanese philosophies of Wabi-Sabi and Kintsugi.
Wabi-Sabi teaches acceptance of imperfection, while Kintsugi is a pragmatic example of transforming perceived defects into new strengths, aesthetics and opportunities.
Speakers
avatar for Eliana Salter

Eliana Salter

I will help you "shift your heart and mind", Shift Your Heart Consulting and Coaching
In 1992, I was in a very horrible car accident, where my mother, father and first husband were all killed. I survived with some relatively minor physical injuries, but emotionally I was devastated and completely traumatized. Since then, I have been on a long healing journey, where... Read More →
Tuesday March 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Foxtail 2 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Mental Health Track

3:15pm MDT

Creative Creatures Colluding and Conversing SEATS AVAILABLE
Tuesday March 11, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Stage
Three amazing entrepreneurs a shoe school dean, a rage roomer and a mermaid walk into a bar..... and have a conversation about how they took their wildest/weirdest idea and are making a living at it. Followed by an interactive brainstorm in an attempt to answer; if you could? Would you?
Speakers
avatar for Nathan Scott

Nathan Scott

Auctioneer, creative, event planner, very low level super hero., Betty Botter Auctions
MA in Communications, 2x Americorps member, US Navy Vet, Up With People, picker, grinner, lover, sinner.
Tuesday March 11, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Stage 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Solopreneur/Freelancer Track
 
Wednesday, March 12
 

10:15am MDT

AI Revolution in Design: Transforming Ecological Landscape Architecture SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am MDT
Foxtail 2

Join Patrick Padden, founder of Padden Permaculture and eco-social designer, for an immersive workshop, exploring how AI is reshaping the future of design—especially in the realm of ecological landscape architecture. This session will delve into the evolving role of artificial intelligence as a transformative tool, enabling designers to create sustainable, functional, and innovative landscapes faster than ever before.

Discover how AI-driven technologies, such as generative design, 3D scanning, and computer vision, are helping professionals integrate ecological principles more effectively into their projects. Whether you’re a landscape architect, urban planner, or small business owner in the design field, you’ll gain insights into how AI can enhance decision-making, streamline workflows, and revolutionize how we interact with the environment.

Learn to apply cutting-edge tools to real-world ecological challenges, and leave with actionable strategies that can be implemented in your next design project. This workshop is ideal for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of AI to shape a greener, more resilient future.

Perfect for designers, architects, planners, and innovators looking to future-proof their projects with the latest in AI technology!
Speakers
avatar for Patrick Padden

Patrick Padden

Founder, Padden Permaculture
Patrick Padden is an eco-social designer, permaculture expert, and founder of Padden Permaculture, based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 16 years of experience, Patrick specializes in regenerative land projects, ecological landscape design, and sustainable systems. He holds a... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am MDT
Foxtail 2 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  AI Track

1:00pm MDT

Stories that Sell SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Lupine
Most entrepreneurs and business owners understand how important their sales and pitching skills are. Some of them see the benefit of leveraging stories as part of the sales process. Few have a deep understanding of how to craft and deliver those stories so that they actually work to influence.

In this session, we'll dive into both the art and science of stories designed to affect how people think or act. We'll look at what a story is, why it works, and common mistakes storytellers make. You will walk away with simple frameworks that you can leverage to craft your next story for maximum impact.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Judd

Stephanie Judd

Managing Partner, Wolf & Heron | Speaker, Author, Coach, Facilitator, Wolf & Heron
Stephanie is a Founder and Managing Partner of Wolf & Heron, a leadership development firm that specializes in the skills necessary to engage and inspire others. The cornerstone skill that Wolf & Heron teaches is storytelling. Stephanie holds a B.A from Cornell University, an MBA... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Lupine 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Builder Track

1:00pm MDT

Selling Without the Ick SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium
Is selling a curse word to you?

Does sales make you feel insecure?

Would you make more money if you felt more comfortable with sales?

I used to overthink sales. I wanted to be amazing, but I thought it was hard, stressful, and uncomfortable.

Even though we have no problem buying, we can get in our heads when we go to sell to others. Selling seems icky and slimy.

Do you have this relationship to sales? If you do, it will limit your success and income.

Want sales to become effortless and enjoyable? Join Rich Life at Founded in FoCo.

Sales is a powerful relationship skill. We sell ideas, beliefs, and behaviors to others every day. Yet something changes in our minds when we go to sell an offering for money.

We worry, stress, and fret. Some have such an aversion to selling that it becomes like a curse word.

Imagine if selling became as natural as breathing. When we don’t overthink it, sales can be that simple. Instead of a stressor, it can be a beautiful exchange.

Easeful sales is possible for anyone. The good news is that when we drop sales stress, we get even better at it. Making deals becomes no more than an interesting game, and the more we play, the more we improve.

Everyone is born to sell. We cover up this innate ability with thoughts and beliefs that sabotage our efforts.

Are you in your own way?

Learn:
How to drop overthinking around sales
How society conditioned you to dislike sales
Why sleazy sales tactics don't work
That selling is not about you
How to listen deeply to create connection
To handle objections with grace and curiosity
How to make more money in sales

Fall in love with sales by approaching it with fresh eyes.

With over 7 years experience in weight loss and membership sales, Rich Life has the record of a top salesperson.

Rich combines his extensive sales experience with a transformative understanding. This understanding helps professionals “drop thought" and leads to more clients, sales, and success.
Speakers
avatar for Rich Life

Rich Life

Owner, Rich Life Realization
Business owner and speaker, Rich is an educator and coach with more than 10 years experience. He uses metaphor and in the moment wisdom to help achievers stop striving and start flowing. As a 3 Principles Apprentice Practitioner, his approach is based on the 3 Principles understanding... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Solopreneur/Freelancer Track

1:00pm MDT

Traction: How to Get a Grip on Your Business SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Sand Lily
Is your business controlling you, or are you controlling your business?

Being an entrepreneur is exciting—until it's not. The chaos of keeping things together feels like trying to juggle while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. Blindfolded. Over a pit of fire.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Business owners everywhere face the same uphill battle: mounting fires, leadership tension, and a nagging suspicion that your business might actually be running you. It doesn’t have to be this way.

As an EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Implementer, I help frazzled founders, weary leaders, and overwhelmed teams regain control. This workshop unpacks the simple, powerful tools of the Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®) to help you:

+ Gain clarity on your vision (because guessing isn't a strategy).
Build a healthy, aligned leadership team (goodbye, endless bickering in meetings).
+ Establish consistent, accountable processes (yes, people will actually follow through!).
+ Solve issues at the root, not just slapping on duct tape (we're looking at you, 'quick fixes').

You’ll leave with the tools and confidence to run your business, rather than letting it run you into the ground. And hey, you might even start enjoying being the boss again.

So, if you’ve ever felt like the captain of a ship that’s constantly one storm away from sinking, join us for this workshop. Together, we’ll turn your team into a well-oiled machine that runs like clockwork, leaving you free to enjoy life, lead well, and maybe—just maybe—sleep through the night.

It’s time to get a grip. Because the only thing worse than being overwhelmed by your business is realizing it’s been controlling you all along.

This workshop isn’t just about survival. It’s about thriving. It’s about gaining the traction you need to move forward, not just spin in circles.

And let’s be honest—there are enough things in life that control us (hello, social media algorithms). Your business shouldn’t be one of them.
Speakers
avatar for Justin Boling

Justin Boling

I help entrepreneurs & business owners take control of their business!, EOS Worldwide
I am a dedicated husband, father to 5, serial entrepreneur, Coach, and Small Business Owner committed to empowering fellow entrepreneurs. Previously, I grappled with the commonplace notion that success meant sacrificing personal well-being and relationships. In my pursuit of climbing... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 1:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Sand Lily 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Builder Track, Workshop

2:00pm MDT

Gather with Purpose: Elevate your Organization with Magic Moments SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium
Inspired by Priya Parker’s The Art of Gathering, this condensed session will focus on key principles nonprofits/businesses can use to elevate their events and meetings. We’ll cover essential strategies for designing gatherings that inspire connection and purpose. Attendees will walk away with practical, actionable tips to make their events more meaningful, whether they’re planning a fundraiser, a board meeting, or a community workshop. Ideal for nonprofit professionals, creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs looking to maximize impact in every interaction.
Speakers
avatar for Analia Weber

Analia Weber

Development Director, Mover & Shaker, Community Connector, The Family Center/ La Familia
Analía Weber is a dynamic force on a mission to foster community wherever she goes. Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Analía spent the initial chapters of her life gracing stages nationally and internationally, sharing her passion for dance and presenting her choreographic creations... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  NonProfit Track

3:15pm MDT

Bring Your Soma to Work SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Stage
Owning a business, running a nonprofit, or being an entrepreneur is a never-ending rollercoaster of meeting deadlines, managing team dynamics, communicating value, meeting financial goals, and trying to get ahead. The world moves at lightning speed and asks us to adapt, innovate, and keep moving. Anxiety abounds.

But what if the secret to doing it all well wasn't a new technology, but instead was an invitation to slow down and recenter ourselves?

Our brains are useful tools when it comes to analysis, evaluation, computation, and composition. But they aren't the most effective tools for regulation, connection, adaptability, and creativity when used in isolation. Instead, we have an entire network in our bodies that can support us.

Through this workshop, Bring Your Soma to Work, we'll learn how the somatic system plays a role in our decision making, communication, boundary setting, and stress regulation. We'll explore some concrete practices that can reset our nervous systems so we can be experience greater clarity, presence, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose in our work.
Speakers
avatar for Colleen Stanevich

Colleen Stanevich

Somatic Coach and Leadership Consultant, CEO and Founder
Colleen Stanevich is a recovering strategic planner who saw first-hand the toll of ignoring human-centered practices and the resulting effects on an overspent, exhausted, burned out, physically ill workforce. Through her own embodied transformation and somatic training, Colleen now... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Stage 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Mental Health Track

3:15pm MDT

Ditch the Drama - Build Healthy Connections on Your Team SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Sand Lily
Raise your hand if you can think of recent drama at work? Sometimes we find ourselves asking, “Why can’t I just do my job and stop dealing with all these people problems?!” Too often, teams become mired in unhealthy dynamics. While levels of drama on teams vary, we know it’s easy to get stuck in emotions, reactions, and power plays.

Stats tell us this problem is pervasive. A Gallup poll found 71% of employees are disengaged to the point that they consider quitting their jobs about once a day. A different study found that the average leader spends 2.5 hours per day dealing with drama that creates “emotional waste” at work.

Getting unstuck from disempowering team dynamics can be tricky AND it can be powerful. Join us to learn how to move your team forward.
Speakers
avatar for Erin Hottenstein

Erin Hottenstein

Senior Advisor and Confidence Cultivator, Trebuchet Group
Erin Hottenstein brings 20 years of experience as a consultant, trainer, facilitator, and coach in business, collegiate and community settings. She helps clients move from feeling stuck to moving forward with clarity and confidence. She helps leaders get their messages across with... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Sand Lily 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  NonProfit Track

3:15pm MDT

Master Your Message: How to be comfortable networking and speaking about your non profit SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Foxtail 2
Sue Sutton will start with a short history of her radio career and then move into an interactive mastermind-style session. Participants will discuss some fears about networking and speaking and how they solved or moved past those fears (or not).
Sue will then outline the material to be covered, including how to use radio copyrighting for networking, a couple of exercises that participants will engage in, and a fun and possibly a little scary audio assignment to practice what they've learned. Sue will provide tip sheets with a place for notes and will answer questions as the session progresses.
By the end of the session, participants will know how to write their message, and then be concise when speaking and networking in various settings. They will have mastered their message (or at least made a good start) and will feel more confident and comfortable in their networking efforts.
Sue will also offer a free 5-7 minute interview on her radio show to promote the participants' nonprofit and showcase what they have learned. She is also available to speak to groups and companies about this topic for no charge.
Speakers
avatar for Sue Sutton

Sue Sutton

Radio Personality and Media Coach, Pirate Radio 93.5 FM
I am a Radio Personality and Media Coach. I've been in radio for 38 years and am currently the morning show host on Pirate Radio 93.5 FM in Fort Collins. We are a non-profit community radio station that offers FREE 5-7 minute interviews for your business, non-profit, or event. As... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm MDT
Foxtail 2 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  NonProfit Track

5:00pm MDT

Trout Tank: NonProfit Pitch-a-Thon SEATS AVAILABLE
Wednesday March 12, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1
This event is inspired by “Shark Tank,” but way more kind! Trout Tank is a pitch-a-thon event where local nonprofits pitch in-person to corporate and individual sponsors (Trouts!) at Founded in FoCo. The nonprofit can pitch a program or event that needs additional funding. Sponsors then choose from the pitches presented to make a direct donation.

This is a great opportunity to see business sponsors connect and support local nonprofit organizations that are working hard to improve our community. Come watch pitches to learn about what it takes to get people onboard for your organization, and connect with other nonprofits in the area.

Who should apply to participate to share their pitch?
501(c)3 nonprofits involved in a wide range of causes are encouraged to apply to Trout Tank. We will be looking for organizations primarily located in, or impacting the northern Colorado community. Organizations with a primarily religious or political mission are not eligible for participation.

If you are a non-profit you can apply here.
Applications open February 1!
Deadline: Feb 21st
Final Decisions Announced: Feb 25th

Who serves on the feedback panel as a Trout and provides sponsorship to NonProfits?
Trouts are individuals who listen live at the event to provide feedback and commit to distribute individual or corporate grants of $1,000 or more during the event. Anyone who is interested in being a potential trout at the event, please reach out to Alex Koenigsberg at alex@arulainc.com
Speakers
avatar for Maya Ortega

Maya Ortega

Maya Ortega is a writer, community leader, creator of rituals, bathing expert, and inter-personal consultant. She specializes in leveling things up by creating events and experiences to hyper-connect communities through communication, art, and collaboration.
avatar for Alex Koenigsberg

Alex Koenigsberg

Fundraising, Philanthropy, Biz Dev, Arula
Alex founded Arula Fundraising in 2019 and grew the company to eight staff before making it an employee-owned company. He co-founded 1+ to help people start and administer philanthropic foundations. Alex also serves as the Business Development Officer for Quorum Prosthetics, the country's... Read More →
Wednesday March 12, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Featured, Evening Ticketed Event
 
Thursday, March 13
 

9:00am MDT

Kung Fu Clarity - Ninja Strategies for Connection SEATS AVAILABLE
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am MDT
Twinberry Auditorium
What if you could stand out In today's fast-paced, noise-filled business landscape? More than just innovation; is required, it demands strategic clarity. This session will equip you with the "ninja" skills to navigate the complexities of modern business and forge meaningful connections.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient martial art of Kung Fu, you'll learn practical strategies to:

Cut through the clutter: Learn to identify and eliminate distractions that hinder your focus and progress.

Master the art of listening: Discover how to truly understand your clients, colleagues, and partners, fostering deeper connections.

Channel your inner warrior: Unleash your potential and build the resilience needed to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.

Forge lasting relationships: Develop effective communication and networking skills to build strong, mutually beneficial partnerships.

Join us for an interactive and insightful session that will leave you empowered to navigate the complexities of the modern business world with confidence and clarity.

Julie is a martial arts student who has studied Kung Fu and Tai Chi in Northern Colorado for 10 years
Speakers
avatar for Julie Ulstrup

Julie Ulstrup

Business Strategist and Consultant for Ambitious Entrepreneurs, Julie Ulstrup Business Strategy and Consulting
Julie Ulstrup is THE go to business strategist and coach for experienced mission driven entrepreneurs who want to start or grow a profitable business so they can have more time and money freedom. With a lifetime spent perfecting the art clarity, she helps ambitious clients 2X their... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 9:00am - 9:45am MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Thematic Keynote

10:00am MDT

Stop the Revolving Door: Build and Motivate High-Performing Teams That Stay SEATS AVAILABLE
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Stage
Are your top performers heading for the door while the ones you wish would leave stick around? Is turnover leaving you stuck in the weeds, tackling operational headaches instead of focusing on strategy? Retaining top talent doesn’t happen by accident—it takes the right systems, clarity, and leadership to create a workplace where high performers thrive.

In this session, we’ll explore what’s driving your retention challenges and the hidden factors pushing your best employees out the door. You’ll discover how to create a work environment that supports, motivates, and keeps top talent, while reducing the frustrations that hold your team—and your business—back.

This session will not only provide fresh insights but also give you actionable tools to slow the revolving door immediately. Turn your team into your biggest competitive advantage.
Speakers
avatar for Samantha C. Prestidge

Samantha C. Prestidge

Chief Solutions Enthusiast, I Help Owners & Leaders Overcome Growing Pains and Build High-Performing Teams
Samantha C. Prestidge is the founder of Auxo Business Services, a consultancy dedicated to empowering managers, streamlining operations, and building high-performing teams for growing businesses. With years of experience partnering with field-service companies, nonprofits, and entrepreneurial... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am MDT
Stage 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Builder Track

10:15am MDT

Writing Your Artist Statement! SEATS AVAILABLE
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:15am - 12:15pm MDT
Gregory Allicar Museum of Art's Robert W. Hoffert Learning Center [Offsite]
Calling all artists, writers, and creatives: emerging or established, mid-career or hobbyist!

Stumped by your artist statement? Don’t know where to start, what to say, or how long it should be? Have an existing statement that feels out of date or doesn’t accurately represent you or your work?

Discover the answers to these questions and more at Writing Your Artist Statement, an interactive workshop led by Madeleine Boyson, regional arts writer and editor.

Together we'll discover your work in your own voice, cover best practices, create new frameworks for statements, and build creative community in the process. Bring an existing statement or start from scratch!
Speakers
avatar for Madeleine Boyson

Madeleine Boyson

Arts and Culture Writer, Editor, + Communications Coordinator, Gregory Allicar Museum of Art
Madeleine Boyson (she/her) is a Denver-based writer, poet, and artist. She holds a BA in Art History and History from the University of Denver and makes her living as a communications professional, editorial coordinator, and arts writer.
Thursday March 13, 2025 10:15am - 12:15pm MDT
Gregory Allicar Museum of Art's Robert W. Hoffert Learning Center [Offsite] 1400 Remington StFort Collins, CO 80524
  Creative Track, Workshop

11:15am MDT

From Fluff to Facts: Find The Real Truth Through Conversations
Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Foxtail 2
Are you tired of market research conversations that seem to go nowhere? I’ll walk you through my approach to asking the right questions—the kind that lead to real, actionable feedback. It’s not about surface-level chats or vague promises; it’s about getting specific, diving deep, and learning what really drives your customers.

The key? It’s not about pitching your idea. In fact, it’s about avoiding it entirely. I’ll show you how to shift the conversation to focus on your customers' lives, their problems, and their real-world experiences. Instead of asking hypothetical questions like, "Would you use this?" or "Do you think it's a good idea?" you’ll learn how to ask about what they’ve actually done. That way, even your mom couldn’t lie to you about it!


Here’s what you’ll get out of it:

A new approach to customer conversations: Learn how to structure chats that reveal actionable insights instead of vague, surface-level responses.

Question techniques that work: Discover the exact questions that dig into past behaviors and help you get past fluff to find the stories that actually matter.

Common pitfalls to avoid: Learn how to steer clear of the mistakes that lead to misleading feedback, like fishing for validation or compliments.

How to get honest feedback: Shift the focus to your customers' real experiences to uncover genuine insights that will shape your product decisions.

Practical tools you can use right away: Walk away with question frameworks and strategies you can start using immediately to make every conversation count.

This session is all about making sure your market research is actually useful, so you can build something your customers really need, not just something they say they want.
Speakers
avatar for kateryna quinn

kateryna quinn

Founder, ASTASH | Uplify AI
Kateryna Quinn is a mom, an immigrant, and a proud small business owner in Northern Colorado. Recognized as a Forbes Next 1000 honoree and one of NOCO's 30 Under 30, she has made a name for herself as a leader in marketing and web design. As the founder of ASTASH an award-winning... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm MDT
Foxtail 2 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Builder Track

1:00pm MDT

Leading With Vision That Others Can See SEATS AVAILABLE
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium
Leaders are usually visionary. Those who are not leaders may be more focused on the immediate task at work, the current daycare challenge, the pressing financial concern, or any other issue that keeps them focused on the here and now.

Unfortunately, many leaders do not know how to communicate vision in a way that others can really see it. Done well, vision is unifying and inspiring. If seeing is believing, then one of the most important responsibilities of leaders is to help others see beyond the immediate to a compelling future.

The other unfortunate thing is that most "Vision Statements" aren't visionary. They're often restatements of the mission, or are said so generically that they could apply to numerous other companies, rather than being a picture of the future that the leader wants others to see.
Speakers
avatar for Mark Weaver

Mark Weaver

Open Door Organizational Solutions
Mark started Open Door in 2009 to help organizations radically define their culture. He also provides non-conventional people strategies tailored to radically reinforce organizations’ cultures, once defined. His clients are businesses and Not-For-Profits ranging in size from startups... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm MDT
Twinberry Auditorium 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Builder Track

2:00pm MDT

The Built-In Business Benefits of Social Justice SEATS AVAILABLE
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Sand Lily
In a world that increasingly values social responsibility, businesses that actively embrace social justice initiatives not only contribute to meaningful change but also unlock a myriad of for their organizations. This fireside chat will delve into how prioritizing social justice can lead to innovation, enhanced community connections, and sustained growth. As entrepreneurs, nonprofits, startups, and creatives adapt to shifting societal norms, understanding the intersection of social justice and business can be a powerful tool for future-proofing their organizations.

Objectives:

Define Social Justice in a Business Context: Explain what social justice means for businesses and why it is crucial for modern enterprises.

Highlight the Business Case for Social Justice: Showcase tangible examples and data illustrating how social justice initiatives can drive innovation, improve employee morale, and enhance customer loyalty.

Encourage Connection and Collaboration: Foster a mindset among participants that values collaboration with communities and stakeholders to create a more equitable business landscape.

Provide Actionable Steps: Offer participants practical strategies for integrating social justice principles into their business models.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Laura Borland

Dr. Laura Borland

Founder of Dad-Ease, Dad Advocate, and Doctor of Social Work, Founder
Dr. Laura Borland, DSW, is a fatherhood advocate and founder of Dad-Ease, an ecosystem of solutions designed to promote parental parity. With a deep commitment to addressing the challenges faced by dads, she strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all parents... Read More →
avatar for Alana White

Alana White

Architect and advocate, W.K. Kellogg Foundation
Alana G. White is a program officer for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in Battle Creek, Michigan. In this role, she works in the foundation’s priority place of Michigan to support thriving children, working families and equitable communities. White is responsible for identifying... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm MDT
Sand Lily 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Creative Track

4:15pm MDT

Be a party-rockin' leader SEATS AVAILABLE
Thursday March 13, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1
Eryc Eyl - author of Stop Engaging Employees: Start Making Work More Human - presents an electrifying blend of music, leadership insights, and interactive fun that will transform your approach to teamwork and management.

Drawing unexpected parallels between DJing and leadership, Eryc delivers a high-energy, unforgettable experience that gets everyone on their feet - literally!

Through a mix of music, storytelling, and plenty of interaction, Eryc introduces three key leadership disciplines that, when applied like a master DJ reading a crowd, can help people at any level in the organization cultivate a workplace that's as engaging and harmonious as a perfectly curated playlist.

Participants will:
* Learn to "read the room" and respond to team needs
* Discover how to involve everyone in creating positive change
* Develop strategies for building shared understanding and purpose

Packed with practical tips, dance breaks, and "aha!" moments, this presentation will leave you energized, unified, and equipped with actionable leadership tools. It's not just a talk - it's a party with a purpose that will have you grooving to a new beat of collaboration and success, transforming traditional leadership into party-rockin' leadership.

Don't miss the chance to experience this unforgettable leadership dance party at Founded in FoCo, with Eryc Eyl as your guide and DJ. Get ready to rock the party - and the workplaces of Northern Colorado!
Speakers
avatar for Eryc Eyl

Eryc Eyl

Party rocker, leadership activist, human being
A lifelong resident of northern Colorado, Eryc Eyl is a speaker, coach, and consultant with more than 30 years of experience in making work more human for conglomerates, telecommunications, consumer packaged goods, nonprofit, governmental, and research organizations. Eryc has an... Read More →
Thursday March 13, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm MDT
Prairie Sage 1 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  Thematic Keynote
 
Founded in FoCo 2025
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