Settling for Simple
Utilizing the theme of the conference, we will dive into capturing your idea, refining what problem you plan to solve with your idea, defining your customer base, discovering your niche in the market, and then developing simple pricing structures that are fair to you and your customers. All of this will be done by oversimplifying your ideas to then use as a framework for what will become your detailed business plans for investors, partners, or even just yourself! These principles are meant to be a guiding light for you to stay true to your goals, and how you can help the world be a better place to live.

Luke Shepherd has a passion for technology and helping people see how useful it can be! With nearly 15 years working across diverse sectors, including non-profit, legal, and media production, he has done just about everything in IT, specifically infrastructure design, SaaS applications, end-user support, networking, and system redesigns for various organizations, including Fortune 500 companies and non-profit organizations. Using his background in media production spanning 20 years and multiple countries, Luke has also worked with various aspects of media tech, like FOH engineering, film set production, and everyone’s favorite: the clapper! Currently, Luke is part of an executive team at a start-up and serves on the board of a non-profit dedicated to supporting churches in developing countries, in addition to running The Shepherd Network.

Most see innovation as generating ideas that can change the world. But few think of innovation as the practical implementation of ideas.
As a business, innovation is paramount if you want to thrive. But if you define innovation as simply having ideas, I’ve got bad news for you – ideas without execution are worthless.
So how do you know how to focus your energies and where?
If you want to build a business with the capacity to ideate great ideas and introduce new innovations into the market, here’s a helpful way to look at it.

Build a life you don't need a vacation from" is a popular phrase in the noisy world of entrepreneurship...but how do we define that it and know what it actually takes to achieve?
My name is Jesse Sieff. I'm a former engineering student, professional musician, U.S. Marine Veteran, ICF certified coach, father of twins, and now 6-figure media agency owner.
I'm excited be your coach to help you cut through the noise and design the life you want.
Let's start with the basics...
All humans are constantly battling to balance two powerful forces: external and internal.
The external is the most influential, which caters to our natural desire to be accepted and fit in to well defined groups. Historically, that is what our survival depended on and why evolution hardwired it into our psychology.
The internal, is your inner voice, your will, your moral compass, and your goals to grow in ways that are uniquely important to you...
This session is all about listening to that inner voice, training it to be louder, and allowing it to guide your habits.
As we grow up, we have no choice but to be completely immersed and programmed by a series of institutions: family, religion, school, community, career, social media, etc...
Ideas of what is "important" are defined and prescribed to us before we have the ability or experience to consciously question it.
Focus demands clarity on what is important, but if we don't address the root of the problem (you subconscious) then you will forever be stuck focused on solving the wrong problems.
The Secret Art of Lifestyle Design is for anyone preparing to or currently making a major pivot in their lives.
It's to honor the values of living up to your own ideals and not someone else's ideals. It's not about getting out of work, but rather setting up your lifestyle, so you can work on the right things on your terms.
I look forward to seeing you there and helping you "break on through to the other side.

Networking isn’t just about business cards or LinkedIn connections—it’s about building real relationships that open doors. Sure, it can feel awkward or even a little cringe, but with the right mindset, it doesn’t have to be.
Modern networking is about quality, not quantity. It’s not about meeting as many people as possible—it’s about connecting with intention, online or in person. In this session, we’ll cover practical strategies for building authentic relationships that can boost your career or business. We’ll discuss how to network with purpose, make a lasting impression, and turn connections into real opportunities.
If networking feels intimidating, you’re not alone. It’s tricky for most people! But when approached the right way, it can be one of the most valuable tools in your career. Let’s make it work for you.
