2024 Kansas City Speakers and Special Guests

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2024 Speakers & Special Guests

Keynote

Steph Shannon
Keynote

Anh-Nguyet Nguyen
Goddess Award

Missey Smith
Comedian

Andrea Caspari
Emcee

Debbie Dee

Keynote

Steph Shannon

Steph Shannon is an accomplished professional with over 20 years of experience in the indie film and commercial production industry. As the former Film Commissioner for the Kansas City region, Steph successfully revived the Kansas City Film Office in 2014 after a decade of closure, playing a pivotal role in recruiting and supporting numerous independent film, TV, and commercial productions, including notable projects such as Netflix’s Queer Eye, Cannes award-winning film American Honey, and NBC’s American Ninja Warrior. During her tenure, she provided invaluable assistance to over 1,600 projects, contributing an estimated $80 million in jobs and economic impact.

Steph’s impact extends beyond her role in film. She collaborated with the City of Kansas City to establish the city’s first local film incentive, providing substantial support for film, television, and commercial projects. Her involvement is not limited to her professional role, as she holds positions as Treasurer of Grow Kansas Film, Vice President of the organization Film in Mo, while also serving on the KU Professional Advisory Board and Imagine KC Advisory Board. Currently, Steph holds the position of Director of Major Giving at Kansas City PBS Television Station.

Keynote

Anh-Nguyet Nguyen

April 1975 marks the beginning of a tremendous story of escape, survival and resilience for thousands of Vietnamese fleeing their homeland as the Vietnam War came to an end. Of these thousands included Anh-Nguyet Nguyen, aged 2, with her parents and five siblings, ranging in age from 3 months to 10 years. This journey would completely change the trajectory of her family’s lives, and their fortuitous rescue by the U.S. military would present them with endless opportunities that would not have existed otherwise.

Settling in Salina, KS, the family was faced with a great deal of bigotry and hatred. One neighboring family, the Hendricks, was the first exception. They embraced the Nguyens and introduced them to “American” traditions such as chocolate chip cookies, Jell-O, Christmas gifts, and birthday parties. Despite their difficulties inherent to a language barrier, education was immediately identified as a critical key to unlock their futures, which had no limitations. Armed with this oft-repeated lesson, Anh graduated in the top 3% of her class and left for college. The deep love for education and learning that had been instilled in her childhood propelled her to complete her doctorate in cell biology and physiology. The close relationship cultivated by admiration and respect with the Hendricks taught her the priceless gift of giving back to her community.

Anh’s love for learning is a passion she loves to share, and was able to indulge as a graduate student and several stints as an adjunct professor. A break was taken to raise her young family that did not last long. She decided to live out a childhood game of “hair salon” and “shopkeeper”, so she bought a salon in 2013. She did not and still does not know how to do hair, and never took a single business class. Regardless, she ran it with great entertainment and success until 2024, selling it to an employee. This came at a time when Anh was able to truly give back to her community with greater impact, having recently been elected to the USD 232 school board. This made Anh-Nguyet the first female Asian to be elected  to public office in Kansas. Anh-Nguyet takes her love of learning, lessons of resilience and a deep commitment to her community with hopes to share the message that no kind act is too small, and the ripple effects of such acts last far longer than one’s presence.

Goddess Award

Missey Smith

Missey Smith turned her personal tragedy into remarkable public policy achievements following the murder of her daughter Kelsey. Ms. Smith and her husband created the Kelsey Smith Foundation (a.k.a. Kelsey’s Army), which educates parents, law enforcement and various groups on the realities of crime and personal safety, the challenges that children face today, and about Kelsey’s case and the lessons to be learned from it.

The Smiths have advocated for the Kelsey Smith Act, which provides law enforcement with a way to quickly ascertain the location of a wireless telecommunications device if it’s been determined that a person is at risk of death or serious physical harm due to being kidnapped or missing. Kelsey had been missing for 4 days in 2007 before she was eventually found murdered. During those difficult 4 days, the Smiths, along with law enforcement and the district attorney, asked the cell phone provider to release the location of Kelsey’s phone; however, the provider would not, citing privacy regulations.

At the time Kelsey was missing, her parents could not understand why there was an issue identifying the location of Kelsey’s phone. They knew this would be the quickest and most accurate way to find their daughter. Once the phone’s location was given to law enforcement, Kelsey’s body was found in approximately 45 minutes. After resolution in their daughter’s murder case, the Smiths met with local legislators to change how cell phone companies must respond to a request when there are exigent circumstances.

Ms. Smith has selflessly advanced Kelsey’s Law, which has passed in 23 states—testifying before Congress and House and Senate lawmakers in many states. She has met with groups that oppose this legislation to negotiate acceptable terms. The Kelsey Smith Act clearly has the potential to save lives and, in most states, does not cost anything to implement.

Remarkably, this legislation has been used to recover the body of a murder victim, recover a baby that was in a carjacked vehicle, prevent a suicide, and save a potential drug overdose victim. Thanks to Ms. Smith’s valiant advocacy, this law can save even more lives, resolve more criminal investigations, and give families much-needed answers in unsolved cases. The Kelsey Smith Foundation ® – KelseysArmy.org

Comedian

Andrea Caspari

Andrea Caspari brings her uniquely funny voice and Midwest perspective to the stage as a clean comedian—and high school English teacher! She has been traveling the country for almost two years doing 100+ shows in theatres and clubs with the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour, making hardworking educators laugh until they cry. 

Andrea has a Dry Bar Comedy special (Don’t Judge Me), is the co-host of the Teachers Off Duty Podcast, was the winner of the Clean Comedy Challenge at the famous Ice House in Pasadena, and was voted Funniest Female Comedian in Kansas City

http://www.andreacaspari.com.

Emcee

Debbie Dee

Debbie Dee is the Radio Music Director for Gospel 1590/106.1 FM, as well as the On-Air Personality of “The Debbie Dee Morning Show”. This year she celebrated 28 years with the Historic Radio station, which is the Oldest Black Owned Radio Station in the Country. During your mornings, you will stay inspired, uplifted, and informed from 6am-12 Noon. Debbie Dee loves volunteering. She served on the Suburban Balance Leadership Board, became the LS West HS Band Liaison and recently, she developed, “The Debbie Dee Backpack Drive” for the young men at High Aspirations Some of Debbie Dee’s accomplishments include being a contestant in the Miss Kansas USA pageant, becoming Miss Juneteenth Kansas City 2000, co-hosting the TV talk show “Positive Profiles”, working as a Producer on a local Christian TV talk show called “Shout”, and producing a benefit concert for St. Jude. And, as a Stroke Ambassador, she also co-produced several Power to End Stroke concerts with the American Heart Association. Adding to her accomplishments, In 2007, she became the Newsome award winner for on-air personality of the year. And, this year she is a Nominee for Best Radio Personality for the 2024 KC People’s Choice Award and the Chicago 2024 Avidity Awards. Debbie Dee loves being a Mom, spending time with her family and passing her smile

Panel Descriptions

PANEL TITLE: Entrepreneurship for Passion, Purpose, and Profit

DESCRIPTION: Entrepreneurship is a dynamic journey of creating and managing a business, we are driven by three core motivations: passion, purpose, and profit. This panel discussion will explore how balancing these elements creates a holistic and sustainable approach to entrepreneurship, allowing entrepreneurs to build businesses that are not only economically viable but also deeply fulfilling and impactful.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Harnessing Passion:Understand how passion fuels entrepreneurial drive, resilience, and innovation, and learn strategies to help you through challenges and setbacks.
  2. Defining Purpose:Discover the importance of having a clear purpose and how it can guide business decisions, inspire teams, and create a meaningful impact on your community.
  3. Ensuring Profit:Learn the critical role of financial sustainability in entrepreneurship, including strategies to achieve and maintain profitability while reinvesting in the business and scaling operations for long-term success.

PANEL TITLE: Prospering Through All Seasons of Life

DESCRIPTION:  The unknown is scary.  When we avoid thinking about hard things, those things can grow bigger and scarier.  We will discuss how to approach courageously the hard topics of aging and death and equip you with the knowledge to move forward and take fear out of the unknown.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Unlocking Your Prosperity by Transforming Your Mind
  2. Avoiding Your “Never-Evers” With Long-Term Care Insurance
  3. Understanding Key Estate Planning Documents

PANEL TITLE: Cracking the Code: Proven Strategies to Look & Feel Your Best

DESCRIPTION: This panel will explore areas of your life where you can make simple efforts with big returns.  Our experts will share actionable strategies for Self- Care, Hormones, Fitness, & Nutrition that will support your wellbeing goals, whatever they may be.  We will discuss connecting the dots between your daily habits and you will walk away with action steps you can start right away!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Mind and spirit: Conscious Self-Care is your Superpower: Liberate your Life, Amplify your Love and Energize your business
  2. Fitness/Nutrition: Effortless and Enjoyable Fitness and Nutrition Routine for Your Busy Lifestyle
  3. Hormones: 3 keys to increase energy, lose stubborn weight, and balance hormones.

 

 

PANEL COORDINATOR: Angela Pitts

PANEL TITLE: Connect. Relate. Thrive!

DESCRIPTION: Whether you are a leader (or you want to be!) in your own business, in a corporation, or at home with your family, finding your voice, building a meaningful brand, and communicating effectively is vital to your growth! This panel will help you find your voice, craft your own unique message, become a leader others want to lock arms with, and then get seen in the digital world!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Crafting your story and finding your voice (and helping others find their voice as well). You have a unique story to tell, and you can use that story to connect with others!
  2. Charismatic Communication, authentic connections (both in person and over social media) and servant leadership (be a leader people want to lock arms with, and help others become leaders as well).
  3. Digital Strategy and creative for small businesses, non-profits, bloggers and eCommerce. Let your unique gifts and talents shine and be seen in this digital age.  

PANEL TITLE: Finding the Path to Honoring Thyself

DESCRIPTION:  Do you find yourself overwhelmed and unfulfilled on a path that is not true to yourself? We are all on a profound journey towards self-discovery and self-expression. Although the journey can be hard, support is available along the way.

The path to honoring thyself involves embracing authenticity, courage to overcome obstacles, and revealing our unique individuality. You are not just a passenger in life—you are the driver in charge of your own journey! Our experience, expertise, and resources will give you direction to help you choose your route towards uncovering your authentic self.

KEY TAKE-AWAYS:

  1. Understand the role neuroplasticity plays in changing the neural pathways in your brain towards self-awareness.
  2. Debunk the self-sacrifice narrative to realize that you can make space to care for yourself while also meeting the needs of others.
  3. Glean insight and equip you with supportive tools to cope more effectively, to be empowered, and to then live out a life of fulfillment in your truth through self-care and connection.

PANEL TITLE:  Owning Your Superpower, Unleashing Your Strengths

DESCRIPTION:  Women’s voices are critical in navigating the future. Our industries, our communities, our families and ourselves are empowered by contributing our talents and ideas. This panel will guide you in discovering your personal gifts, support you in sharing your message, and amplify your voice to open doors.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Identify how to leverage the value of at least three personal strengths.
  2. Objectively assess who is or could be in your tribe and what role they play in your success.
  3. Gain confidence and practice in unapologetically sharing your superpowers to seize opportunities.

PANEL TITLE: Still Here, Still Standing: The Power of Women Supporting Women

DESCRIPTION: Ladies, gather around! It’s time to step into the spotlight and explore the rich tapestry of our lives, woven together by the incredible women who stand beside us. We all know that we are the main characters in our own stories, but what about the remarkable women who play those vital supporting roles? Life is not a solo journey, and its high time we evaluate the friendships that uplift us and identify what might be missing in our circles. After all, every Queen needs a court!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Embrace Your Journey: Acknowledge and accept your trauma as part of your identity as a woman and seek support from therapists or trusted loved ones to aid in your healing process. Release strongholds that yield movement and recognize that starting over requires a RELEASE. Understand the importance of asking for support when needed…. the ASK.
  2. Cultivate Self-Love: Recognize that the energy you project influences your experiences; by loving and accepting yourself, you can rewrite your story and attract positive connections. Begin anew and love who you were created to be, unapologetically.
  3. Choose Your Relationships Wisely: Let go of friendships that don’t serve you, remain open to new connections and friendships placed in your life.

 

PANEL COORDINATOR: Angela Pitts 

PANEL TITLE: From Ideas to Action: Leadership for Life

DESCRIPTION:  Women are flooded with other people’s opinions on what we should be doing or how well we’re doing it. Leadership is an inside-out quality based on your values, natural gifts and intuition rather than how you look to others. This panel focuses on cultivating a personalized foundation for knowing what’s right for you and making decisions that take you to the next level.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Explore how expressing your authentic self in every situation affects the quality of your decision making.
  2. Shift your perspective from having the right answers to asking the right questions guided by your values and intentions.
  3. Identify the key factors for YOU to trust the timing and confidently launch something new.

PANEL TITLE: Bridging the Gap: Women Leading Community Change

DESCRIPTION:  Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring three dynamic women who have turned their passion for community impact and organizing into powerful catalysts for change. Each panelist has identified critical gaps in services within their communities and has taken remarkable steps to address these needs, creating lasting and meaningful change. Through their unique journeys, they have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and leadership, exemplifying the true spirit of community empowerment. This session will delve into their stories, challenges, and triumphs, offering valuable insights and strategies for anyone looking to make a difference in their own communities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Creating a Safe Space is vital to creating strong communities.
  • Everyone has the potential to be a catalyst for positive change and community empowerment.
  • Women face unique challenges, when we come together and uplift one another, we can build a community of compassion.

 

PANEL COORDINATOR: Zu Adams

PANEL TITLE: Living, Dying and Crystal Bunnies: Choosing Your Own Adventure

DESCRIPTION:  Whether the end of life is the culmination of a long adventure or a sudden health crisis, dying is inevitable. Women are typically cast as caregivers, often ignoring their own mental health and well-being. It’s stressful figuring out what another person wants or what to expect, especially if you’re doing it on your own. This panel focuses on what you need to know now to take charge of the aging process and give you peace of mind.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Initiate ongoing conversations that will prepare you and your loved ones for the aging process while maintaining the highest quality of life.
  • Discover how to create a circle of connection, caring and contribution for all cycles of life that yields deep satisfaction.
  • Identify the critical legal documents you need to ensure your wishes are honored before a crisis happens.

PANEL COORDINATOR: Tamala Lyons