We live in a world that expects instant results. Technology, like ChatGPT, flatters us, agrees with us, and delivers exactly what we ask for. But people don’t work that way. Teams don’t work that way.
When we view people through the lens of convenience, they can feel like obstacles - slowing us down, complicating decisions, challenging our plans.
This year, we’ll examine how this "on-demand" mindset is creeping into our organizations and reshaping how we lead and collaborate. Technology will only get louder, faster, and more deeply embedded in our lives.
But here’s the truth:
People aren’t the problem. People are the purpose.
The beauty of people is that they do get in the way. They disrupt our convenience. They challenge our plans. They bring perspectives that clash with our own, and that clash is where the magic happens. It’s where teams get stronger, services get better, businesses grow, and leaders evolve. That friction, that tension, is where the real dynamite lives.
Leaders who embrace and lead through this dynamic won’t just grow their organizations; they’ll create environments where people, and purpose, thrive.
Get your pre-sale tickets for 30% off now.
EVENT DETAILS
WHERE Worksphere
WHEN October 10th, 2025
WHAT Keynote Speakers, Breakout Sessions, Community Q&A Panel, Live Performances from Local Artists, Raffle & Give-Aways, and More!
HOSTED BY Foster’s Creative
sponsored by
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
THE MINDS ARE GATHERING
-
The problem with people: we’re not prompts. You can’t predict every word, every idea, every spark. The ones joining us this year are more than résumés or headshots. They’re unpredictable thinkers, conversation starters, and challengers of the status quo. Stay tuned…
THE MINDS ARE GATHERING
-
The problem with people: we’re not prompts. You can’t predict every word, every idea, every spark. The ones joining us this year are more than résumés or headshots. They’re unpredictable thinkers, conversation starters, and challengers of the status quo. Stay tuned…
FEATURING
VICTORIA FRAGOSO | Performing Artist
-
The problem with people: we’re not prompts. You can’t predict every word, every idea, every spark. The ones joining us this year are more than résumés or headshots. They’re unpredictable thinkers, conversation starters, and challengers of the status quo. Stay tuned…
As a graduate of Chapman University's Creative Writing program and a lover of special effects makeup, Fragoso uses her artistry and imagination to bring her music to life through online content and music videos. Throughout the pandemic, she has connected with other artists and music lovers through live stream shows and her weekly talk show "Tuesday with Toya," where she interviews independent artists and showcases her songs on keys and ukulele.
AMY LEWIS | Visual Artist
-
The problem with people: we’re not prompts. You can’t predict every word, every idea, every spark. The ones joining us this year are more than résumés or headshots. They’re unpredictable thinkers, conversation starters, and challengers of the status quo. Stay tuned…
Lewis is a self taught artist from Tacoma, Washington who paints to cultivate joy and an appreciation for the beauty that is all around us.
In 2023, she was featured in Gita Joshi’s Art Seen magazine and organized her own group pop-up exhibition in Seattle.
Breakout Sessions
-
Bryson Foster is the CEO & Co-Founder of Foster's Creative.
Bryan Reynolds is Co-Founder & CEO of ANTHEM Coffee.
#2 KRYSTLE EDWARDS | Grit City Women
-
Krystle Edwards, South Sound Business Magazine’s 2019 “Top 40 Under 40”, is a visionary supporter of female forward businesses that distinguishes Tacoma as a mecca of grit, creativity, and progressive ideas. She brings formal education in developmental psychology and human biology and her leadership experience to the creation of Grit City Women. In addition, Krystle is the entrepreneur, founder, and president of Liz Rocks; a non-profit organization which provides opportunities for underrepresented youth to participate in mountain activities. Under her leadership, Liz Rocks raised significant funds to build a permanent rock climbing wall and provide youth scholarships. Liz Rocks was awarded the Best Community Organization of 2015 by the Greater Metro Parks Foundation. The Liz Rocks wall, slated to break ground in 2023, will provide a safe space for youth to reach new peaks in the new Scott and Sis Names Family YMCA.
As an avid outdoors person, Krystle has summited Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, Mt. Adams and Mt. Saint Helens. She is also a world traveler, having visited 23 countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa. As a writer, Krystle has been published in an academic case studies textbook and a scientific journal. Krystle served as the vice-chair of the Community Police Advisory Committee in Tacoma for four years where she worked with city officials/staff, the Tacoma Police Department, and community leaders on myriad issues. In addition, she was invited by Tacoma’s Mayor Victoria Woodards to be a core team member of Mayor Woodards’ Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative. Krystle served 12 years federally as a Radiological Controls Branch Head and as co-lead of the Hispanic Employee Resource Group (HERO) at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard where she was recognized as a 2020 Employee of the Year. In 2023 Krystle joined a community of executive women in the South Sound area as a mentor for the Milgard Women’s Initiative (MWI) where she provides mentorship to Tacoma Milgard School of Business graduate students. She was awarded the 2023 Women in Leadership Award by the Junior League of Tacoma. Recently, Krystle has changed career paths to serve as a Certified Change Management Practitioner for the Department of Health’s implementation of the Washington State 988 Behavioral Health Crises Response and Suicide Prevention System.
#3 KATHI RENNAKER | Almond Roca
-
Kathi Rennaker is a dynamic and dedicated marketing professional currently serving as the Director of Marketing at Brown & Haley, a distinguished name in the confectionery industry. With over two decades of experience in strategic marketing and brand management, Kathi has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation at Brown & Haley, ensuring the brand remains a beloved household name.
As a seasoned leader, Kathi is known for her visionary approach and her unwavering commitment to excellence. She actively fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, empowering her team to reach their full potential. Kathi’s relentless pursuit of constant improvement and her ability to inspire her colleagues have earned her a reputation as a truly transformative leader in the marketing field. Her strategic insights and passion for her craft continue to propel Brown & Haley toward new heights of success.
#4 MARI GRIFFIN | Black Night Market
-
The Black Night Market LLC was founded by a Tacoma Native, Mari Griffin. A local artist, community worker, mentor and business owner.
Inspired by the lack of economic opportunities and representation for Black Owned Businesses, Mari produced the Black Night Market, The First Annual Black Business Brunch and Poetry After Dark.
BNM is now considered a production company that highlights and empowers businesses and performing artists!
The BNM experience is like one big family gathering, where we come to network, celebrate, rejoice and support Black culture and community.
Our events are curated by us, for us.
100% Black and women owned & operated.
Click here to follow Mari G on Instagram.
#5 BRIAN HIBBARD | Field Bar Tacoma
Q&A Panel
JENNIFER ENGLISH | Spaceworks
-
Jennifer English
Program Director | SpaceworksJennifer facilitates the learning and professional development of creative entrepreneurs and artists with plans for long term creative/innovative businesses that benefit Tacoma’s culturally vibrant community. Jennifer is a Spaceworks incubator program graduate from 2014 and is the co-owner of SPUN Clay Arts Studio. She was the Hilltop Business Association Vice President for 5 years and continues to be involved in her community. She attended Cornish College of the Arts, Clover Park Technical College, and the Evergreen State College. She holds a graphic design degree and studied Asian Culture and Art. With a passion for collaboration, creativity, and helping creatives and entrepreneurs ‘get out there’, Jennifer started the Hilltop Art Walk that allows visual artists and musicians to show their work for no fee. Jennifer believes that everyone should have the opportunity to share their passion with the world and tries to limit those barriers that keep people from doing so.
TYLER & LAUREN | Promo Originals
-
Meet Tyler Sandland & Lauren Robertson
Tyler started printing t-shirts back in 2010 out of a garage in Orting, WA. Teaching by day and printing shirts by night, Promo Originals quickly grew to more than just a side hustle. Things really took off when Tyler met Lauren, PO’s other half, and they merged their skills and love for the industry. With Lauren’s back-ground in fashion, and Tyler’s knowledge of apparel decorating, they decided to go full time to pursue their dream. After hearing too many times “I ordered from a company I found online and the quality was sh*t," they both agreed there was an opportunity for a local print shop that offered high quality, retail ready, custom apparel. Together they have created a space where people know they will never be “surprised” (not in a good way) by the final product. There is a real focus on expertise, customer experience and attention to detail - whether you are a school, organization or clothing brand.
DR. JOHN GAINES | PUSH for Dreams
-
Dr. John “Push” Gaines is a highly successful and much sought-after CEO, founder of the non-profit organization PUSH for Dreams, best-selling author and renowned speaker, leadership consultant, and mentorship advocate. He is celebrated for his organic, kind-hearted approach and heartfelt enthusiasm in connecting with audiences and tackling important issues with positivity.
Dr. Gaines is dedicated to motivating students, teachers, administrators, professionals, and communities through his personal experiences, trauma, and unique challenges, inspiring them to push through obstacles and be their best selves.
He has been named one of Yahoo News’ “Top 10 Most Influential People of 2020” for his ability to relate to and inspire his audiences to imagine greater possibilities. Dr. Gaines holds degrees in Business and Leadership and exemplifies personal and professional excellence.
He finds his greatest joy in being a loving husband to Emily and devoted father to his children, Anorah Annette & Benny Bishop.
MARQUITA EVANS | Intentions Juice Bar
-
Marquita Evans is the owner of A-List Nanny Services, Intentions Juice and Smoothie Bar, A-List Notary, and Intentional Consulting. With a life mantra of being inspired to serve, Marquita is continuously looking for ways to help others and serve her community.
Marquita spent the first 10 years of her career in Early Childhood education working in preschools and as a Nanny. In an effort to further her education and combine her two passions she became a Surgical Technologist. Marquita spent 10 years working at a Center of Excellence before beginning the journey of a full time mom and entrepreneur.
A-List Nanny Services was structured in 2008. Marquita has been noted as being dedicated, punctual, responsible, trustworthy, and extremely fun to work with. All of these attributes culminated together has led her to become one of the most requested
Nanny’s in the greater Puget Sound area. Clientele includes Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Kraken, Google, and many more!
Intentions Juice & Smoothie Bar was created in 2020 with the goal to challenge one's mind on being intentional about what they feed their body. What began as a home endeavor to create a healthier lifestyle evolved into creating a space for the community to be intentional. Navigating through opening during a pandemic led Marquita to seek solutions vs see problems. Intentions is currently in the process of opening their second location in Seattle with a third scheduled to open in Downtown Tacoma this fall.
In 2023, Marquita began facilitating for the PCBA (Pierce County Business Accelerator Program) where she provided in person instruction for entrepreneurs located in Pierce County. This endeavor also offered Business coaching to participants in which Marquita has to date worked closely with 26 small businesses.
Building multiple businesses from the ground up has given Marquita a range of expertise including but not limited to business licensing, business coaching, LLC formation, personal credit education, building meaningful business relationships, and conflict resolution.
ABE FOX | Wooden City
-
I was raised in the restaurant industry with some of my earliest memories coming from the views of the places my mom worked to support my brother and I as single parent in Port Townsend, Wa. I was able to witness genuine, small town hospitality on a regular basis and my first job was washing dishes and bussing tables in one of those restaurants. After college without any clue as to what I actually wanted to do with my life I spent my 20s behind many bars while saving money for various trips around the world.
After the birth of my first daughter I kept coming back to the thought of a restaurant that emulated those ideas of comfort and hospitality I saw as kid in all of the places my mom worked. My business partner had a similar childhood working with his mom in restaurants and together we came up with what Wooden City would eventually be. We don’t always get it exactly right but we will forever be trying to recreate the nostalgia and hospitality of our childhood restaurant experiences.
Along with the Tacoma location we have restaurants in Spokane, Chattanooga, Seattle and Birmingham. I live in Tacoma with my partner Niina and our blended family of four amazing kids!