Arts & Entertainment

Melodie Sisk

Film Production & Development Expert

My name is Melodie Sisk and I am a passionate filmmaker with expertise in film production and development. Throughout my career, I have focused on creative development, casting, diversity, LGBTQIA cinema, and the intersection of film and social justice. I firmly believe that film is not just entertainment, but a powerful tool for change and self-expression. My journey in the film industry began as an actor, driven by a deep love for storytelling. It was through working with a scrappy filmmaking team that I discovered my true passion for cinema. Over the past 20 years, my projects have been showcased at prestigious film festivals worldwide, including Sundance, SXSW, Tribeca, Outfest, Atlanta Film Festival, and BAM Cinemafest. I have had the privilege of collaborating with industry giants such as Paramount Pictures and A24, exposing my films to audiences around the globe. One of my most notable accomplishments was co-writing and producing the critically acclaimed film "Little Sister" in 2016. Richard Brody of New York Magazine even hailed it as the best film of that year. Currently, I am co-writing a personal project that I will also co-direct alongside my filmmaking family of 20 years. Additionally, I am seeking funding for an ambitious and visionary film called "Let Me Let You Go," set to be shot in the spring of 2024. This project boasts an incredible team, including acclaimed artist and filmmaker Clement Goldberg as the writer/director, and executive producers Zachary Drucker, Silas Howard, and the iconic Lily Wachowski. With my extensive experience and diverse skill set, I am uniquely qualified to provide advice and guidance to anyone interested in the film industry. Whether you are a writer, director, young producer, actor, film crew member, aspiring creative, or someone looking to invest in the arts or apply to film festivals, I can offer valuable insights and support. If you are seeking a professional who understands the intricacies of film production and development, I am here to help. Let's collaborate and bring your cinematic vision to life. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1461281/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk MelodieSisk.com

Lisa Pertoso

Creativity Coach / Comedian / Learning Designer

🌟Feel stuck on a work or life project and need a creativity boost? 🌟 I’ll shake up your perspective with tools from comedy and experiential learning principles. Approach your challenge with fresh eyes with writing, verbal, and/or movement exercises. 💡How have I supported others? Some examples…💡 – Best practices on how to lead brainstorming / ideation sessions – Speaking / presentation / facilitation tips to increase confidence – Energizing ice breakers for more effective meetings and gatherings – Fun, creative activities for the solopreneur who needs a routine break – Feedback on humor and satire short written pieces 🌎 Why me? 🌏 * Designed & facilitated thousands of people through remote and live learning experiences * 20+ years experience in professional development, experience design, and consulting * 13 years of performing improv theater, storytelling, sketch comedy * Published writer: satire and personal essays = portfolio: https://lapertoso.medium.com/ Why me? The Official Bio... Lisa Pertoso is a learning designer, facilitator, and organizational coach. She founded Follow the Fear, an experiential learning company, to help organizations and individuals prepare for the future of work by developing our most vital human skills: adaptability, communication, creativity, empathy, and self-awareness. Throughout her 20+ year career, Lisa has brought playful and human-centric learning experiences to thousands of people in the U.S., Asia, Australia, and Europe. She has led workshops, classes, and talks for the public and for clients including NYC Department of Health, Brooklyn Public Library, BMW Group, Equinox, TBWA, and Pragmatic Institute. Her personal essays and satire pieces have been featured in Glamour, Women's Health, Insider, McSweeney's and more. Lisa follows her fears every day as an improvisation performer, writer, and parent. Learn more and connect with Lisa on Linkedin.

Chris Rudolph

Digital Agency Growth Coach

Chris Rudolph is a husband, father of three, and business coach for digital agencies for the last nine years. He specializes in helping them accelerate growth and eliminate hustle. Also, Chris is a national speaker at digital marketing conferences and has presented for companies like AgoraPulse, Foxwell Founders, Sendible, Verblio, RepStack, and Cloud Campaign. A Madison, Wisconsin native, Chris, and his family relocated to Kona, Hawaii, where he runs his business coaching practice remotely and volunteers part-time with Youth With A Mission. After starting and selling off two businesses, there is one lesson Chris has learned along the way: it's too challenging to do it alone. He believes that if you want to be successful and finish well, you need a coach, just like any serious athlete.

Clarissa Kear

Visual Artist & Art Instructor

Clarissa Kear is a Philadelphia based contemporary realist painter, and graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, with a major in painting. Clarissas expertise is in painting/drawing fundamentals, composition, and etching techniques. She utilizes her classical training as a springboard to create large scale, imaginative studio paintings. Clarissa is an expert in oil painting, and imaginative composition. She offers a session titled 'Drawing and Painting from Imagination' where students will engage with a variety of mediums in order to transform intuitive sketches into fully realized compositions. In this session, you will learn the practice of automatic drawing and will acquire knowledge about painters and illustrators who create from imagination. By the end the session, you will have completed a fully realized work of art entirely from imagination in the medium of your choice that emulates their own personal style and vision. She also offers a session for beginners titled 'Drawing Fundamentals' This session is for someone would is looking to learn more about techniques related to classical art training. In this session, Clarissa will show you how to build up a drawing using the 19th century method of charcoal handling. This will produce a fast, concise, and visually accurate representation of your subject, and open doors for you to start drawing more accurately. Lastly, Clarissa offers a session in intro to drypoint etching. This will familiarize you with etching tools, as well as the history of etching. You will also learn a variety of hatching techniques, how to transfer a pencil drawing to a metal plate, and how to create a small printed edition of original artwork. This course will require you to have access to a print shop, or etching press. Clarissas courses will require a small amount of required art materials to get started, which will be provided via email after signing up! You can view Clarissas portfolio at clarissakear.com.

Ally Case

Social Media Strategist

I’m a social media content creator and strategist.

Brock Johnson

Social Media Growth Expert

Brock Johnson is a 26-year-old, 7-figure entrepreneur with a passion for helping others grow their following and business on Instagram. In 2017, Brock launched his business with his first E-course, teaching moms how to protect their teens on Snapchat. Shortly after launching that business and while playing college football, Brock pivoted to focus on Social Media Marketing and growth. Over the past 6 years, he has worked with tens of thousands of creators and business owners to grow their social media. Brock grew his own Instagram following by 400K in one year and continues to grow at a rate of over 1,000 people per day. As Co-host of a top 10 business Podcast with his mom, instructor of multiple online courses, Meta consultant, and viral social media creator, Brock is a leading expert in the field of social media growth and short form video content.

Blake Michael

Creator Economy Strategist

My name is Blake and I am a seasoned professional in the world of the Creator Economy. With a deep understanding of creators, business, audience growth, strategy, and social media, I have honed my expertise to provide invaluable advice and guidance to individuals and companies alike. MY CLIENTS: My expertise includes designing tailored business development strategies across the full creator economy spectrum. You might be familiar with companies like ✔Lumanu or ✔Notch, and I’ve also worked with Fortune 500 companies including ✔Audi, ✔Harley Davidson, and others like ✔Celsius, ✔Hollister, ✔What3words, ✔Movado, and ✔Lululemon. Throughout my career, I have witnessed the transformative power of the Creator Economy firsthand. I have seen creators rise to prominence, building loyal communities and thriving businesses. My passion lies in helping these talented individuals navigate the ever-evolving landscape, unlocking their full potential and achieving remarkable success. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to develop tailored strategies that drive audience growth and engagement. I understand that each creator is unique, with their own distinct voice and vision. By carefully analyzing their content, target audience, and goals, I am able to craft strategies that resonate and deliver tangible results. Whether it's optimizing social media presence, leveraging emerging platforms, or implementing innovative marketing techniques, I have the knowledge and experience to guide creators towards sustainable growth. What sets me apart is my comprehensive understanding of the business side of the Creator Economy. I recognize that being a successful creator goes beyond creating captivating content; it requires a solid understanding of monetization, brand partnerships, and long-term sustainability. Drawing from my extensive experience in this field, I provide invaluable insights and advice on how to navigate these complex waters, ensuring creators can turn their passion into a thriving business. I take great pride in my ability to connect with creators on a personal level. I understand the challenges they face, the dreams they aspire to, and the impact they strive to make. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, I empower creators to reach new heights and unlock their true potential. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the Creator Economy holds immense potential. As a trusted advisor and expert in this field, I am committed to helping creators navigate this exciting journey, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and guidance they need to succeed. Together, we can shape the future of the Creator Economy and empower individuals to turn their passions into thriving businesses.

Samar Y

Cultural Strategist, Futurist, Artistic Director

Samar Younes, a Central Saint Martins alumnus and polymath artist from Beirut, is the founder of SAMARITUAL, a New York-based creative atelier and consultancy. With a diverse background in architecture, visual communication, and scenography, Samar uses her two decades of artistic direction experience working with 100’s of artists, and artisans on projects that promote worldbuilding, visual and experiential storytelling, play, imagination, wellbeing, and cultural diversity, working at the intersection of art, design, fashion, and architecture. Known for her radical vision, Samar combines neuroscience and generative creativity, creating, curating and critiquing AI biases to envision more imaginative, otherworldly human-planet centered futures as cultural playgrounds. A recognized juror, mentor, educator, and speaker, Samar has taught at NYU, served as a juror for Frame Magazine, and has been featured in GQ Middle East, Coveteur, Wired and Blanc Magazine, Her dynamic presence and influential force make her an integral part of the art and design world.

Noel Roberts

Real Estate Branding & Marketing Expert

My name is Noel and I am a seasoned real estate agent and analyst with a passion for branding, marketing, lead generation, deal underwriting, and capital raising. With a wealth of experience in the industry, I have honed my skills and expertise to become a trusted advisor in the real estate market. Throughout my professional journey, I have achieved significant milestones that have shaped my career. One of the highlights was being featured on Netflix, where I shared my insights and expertise on the real estate industry. This exposure allowed me to connect with a wider audience and establish myself as a thought leader in the field. In addition to my media appearances, I am also proud to have founded a venture-backed startup. This experience has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that arise in the real estate market. It has also allowed me to develop innovative strategies and solutions to help my clients achieve their goals. What sets me apart from others in the industry is my ability to provide comprehensive advice and guidance to both new and seasoned real estate professionals. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, I have the knowledge and expertise to help you succeed. I understand the intricacies of the market and can provide valuable insights that will give you a competitive edge. With a focus on professionalism and a commitment to excellence, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional results for my clients. I take pride in my ability to build strong relationships and provide personalized service that meets the unique needs of each individual or organization I work with. If you are looking for a real estate agent and analyst who can provide expert advice, innovative solutions, and a personalized approach, I am the ideal candidate for you. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and help you achieve your real estate goals.

Emma G

Music Empowerment Coach & Inspirational Speaker

Author, two-time TEDx Speaker, Singer/songwriter, and Coach, Emma G uses the magic of music to empower, uplift, and motivate audiences worldwide. Born with a rare neurological condition called hydrocephalus, Emma G has recovered from multiple traumas, including ten brain surgeries, by writing and singing her truth, sharing her experiences, and turning her lessons into blessings. Emma G’s music and story are helping audiences overcome struggles, trauma, stress to step up and into their own authentic power. In her book, My Life, My Songs, My Healing, Emma G shares her own personal story of how she has turned her trauma into tunes and struggles into songs to give her music an inspirational and authentic message. With a unique style that marries the techniques of pop, soulful ballads, and a gritty rock edge, Emma G appeals to a diverse audience of teens and parents to deliver teens a connection with themselves and parents a re-connection with their teens. Her latest project, releasing a song each month that is tied to a social justice or a mental health cause, includes anti-bullying for August, drug and alcohol addiction for September, depression in October, and homeless youth in November. Her April song’s music video, “Barbed Wire,” focuses on abuse and sexual assault awareness and earned her a Silver Telly award in 2023. “My goal is to save the world one song at a time – both through the music I compose, and the songs I help teenagers write. Through my music, I aim to heal, inspire strength, spread love, and convey truth: helping individuals rediscover their true selves.” And she is doing just that through 1:1 coaching, workshops with groups, and guest speaking across the country. Singled out by Fox, the Washington Post, and Thrive Global, the New Zealand-born singer/songwriter has expanded her mission of bringing light to the world one song at a time. As an award-winning influencer empowering youth and adults equally as a teacher, lecturer, and – of course – an award-winning musician, Emma G has created the perfect potion for potent and impactful change.

Joy Jing

Design, Marketing, Community Building

Book a session with me if you'd like help on any of the following: * DESIGN: pitch deck, branding, website, landing page, marketing assets * MARKETING: social media, print & digital, copywriting, editing * COMMUNITY: user research, community building BIO: Joy Jing is a dreamer, learner, and creator. She is passionate about pursuing bold ideas and making connections. Joy is the author of Dear Mountain: A Poetry Collection on Love and Loss. Professionally, Joy is the Head of Community at Everywhere VC / The Fund, an early-stage VC of founders and operators investing in the next generation of local entrepreneurs. Prior to The Fund, Joy spent three years in a variety of roles at MassChallenge, the global network for innovators working to solve massive challenges. She expanded the impact of high-potential startups by helping to establish new accelerator tracks, expand geographical footprint, secure public and private funding, and pilot employee programs. Previously, Joy was at an e-commerce giant and an architecture design studio. In recent years, Joy has founded and led two alumni-based communities. Franklin Fellowship Boston was formed by Harvard alumni with a focus on self improvement and professional development. MC Mafia is a digital-first community of former MassChallenge employees working toward bigger dreams. Joy holds a bachelor’s degree from Harvard where she studied Environmental Science, Architecture, and Economics. Alongside academics, Joy competed on behalf of the Harvard College Debating Union all four years. She interned with studio2sustain on a Living Building Challenge certified building and with Hopkins Architects on the renovation of the Harvard Smith Campus Center. Joy also worked on the Health and Places Initiative led by Harvard Graduate School of Design professor Ann Forsyth and contributed to publications in multiple languages. Joy is an artist at heart and in practice. She is fluent in Mandarin Chinese and proficient in power naps. In her spare time, Joy enjoys learning new skills, listening to audiobooks, longboarding, writing, and painting. Joy lives by the motto "life is uncertain, eat dessert first".

Ebony Harding

Writer

Hello, my name is Ebony and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share my professional journey with you. With a passion for writing and a diverse skill set, I have dedicated my career to helping others effectively communicate their message and achieve their goals. As a writer, I have honed my expertise in various areas, including copywriting, social media, creative writing, and PR. These skills have allowed me to create compelling content that captivates audiences and drives results. Whether it's crafting engaging social media posts, developing persuasive copy, or telling captivating stories, I have the ability to connect with readers on a deep and meaningful level. My educational background further enhances my abilities. I hold a BFA in Screenwriting and an MFA in Creative Writing, which have provided me with a solid foundation in storytelling and the art of crafting narratives. Additionally, my knowledge of publishing and book marketing allows me to provide valuable insights and guidance to authors who are seeking to promote their books or enhance their overall brand. Throughout my career, I have achieved numerous milestones and garnered recognition for my work. I have collaborated with a wide range of clients, from small businesses to multinational corporations, and have consistently delivered exceptional results. My dedication to excellence and my commitment to understanding the unique needs of each client have earned me a reputation as a trusted and reliable professional. What sets me apart is my genuine enthusiasm for helping others succeed. I thrive on the opportunity to bring ideas to life and make a positive impact through my writing. I believe that effective communication is the key to success in any endeavor, and I am passionate about empowering individuals and businesses to achieve their full potential. If you are an author in need of assistance with promoting your book or enhancing your brand, I am the ideal candidate to help you achieve your goals. With my expertise in writing, marketing, and storytelling, I can provide you with the guidance and support you need to make a lasting impression and reach your target audience. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. I am excited about the possibility of working together and helping you achieve your dreams. Let's embark on this journey together and create something truly remarkable.

Matt Bailey

Digital Marketing Trainer & Consultant

Matt Bailey teaches Digital Marketing and Communications to the world's biggest brands and at the most recognized universities. He’s taught: • Google employees how to use Google Analytics • Experian consultants how to present data • Microsoft marketers digital marketing He's developed custom digital marketing workshops and training curriculum for: Microsoft, Disney, Nationwide, Orange, Hewlett Packard, Proctor & Gamble, and IBM. Matt's training curriculum is also used at Duke University, Rutgers University, Purdue University, and over 300 other institutions. According to Microsoft, "Matt has an uncanny ability to simplify the complexity of digital marketing into concepts that are understandable, relatable, and ultimately do-able." From developing real-estate websites to starting his own digital marketing agency, Matt has been at the forefront of entrepreneurship and digital marketing. As the founder of SiteLogic in 2006, he created more than $1 billion in revenue for clients. In 2015, he pivoted from his agency business to focus full-time on training and has trained over 1 million marketers. In 2020, he earned his Master of Education in Instructional Design and Technology. Matt is the digital communications instructor and educational consultant for New Media Academy in Dubai, UAE where he has presented for the Presidential Court, Prime Minister’s Office, and the Government Media Office. He is also the digital marketing instructor for the ANA (Association of National Advertisers), an instructor for LinkedIn Learning, and standards contributor for the OMCP (Online Marketing Certified Professional), the international standards certification and licensing program for digital marketing education. He’s the author of: Internet Marketing: An Hour a Day (2011), Wired to be Wowed (2015), Teach New Dogs Old Tricks!(2017), and Digital Marketing Fundamentals (2023). When he isn’t immersed in the universe of marketing and technology, Matt spends most of his time being a husband and a dad (to four daughters) and beekeeping. Whatever time is left is spent reading history, culture, or philosophy books.

Lindsey Elliott

Industrial Digital Technology Strategist

Hi, I'm Lindsey Elliott: a mechanical engineer by degree with over 5 years of industry experience in manufacturing and heavy industry construction. I'm looking forward to discussing strategies for advancing digital technologies in the industrial construction sector (oil & gas refineries, chemical plants, pilot plants, sustainable material processing, etc.) in a 1:1 in-person or remote session.

Sharon Gai

Ecommerce & Digital Transformation Expert

Sharon Gai is an expert in ecommerce, digital transformation and AI. She helps organizations become agile disruptors in their industries so they can increase revenue and retain users. In her tenure at Alibaba, she advised brands and heads of state in crafting their digital strategy with programmatic marketing and AI. She has been the keynote speaker at TEDx, Singularity University, UBS, Nestle, Ecomworld, and Etail. She is in the AAE list of Top Keynote Speakers in 2023. She has appeared on ABC, CBC, CCTV, Techcrunch, Retail Asia, Wired, and The Next Web. She is the author of the book, Ecommerce Reimagined: what we can learn in retail and ecommerce from China. Sharon has an Honors Bachelor’s degree in International Development from McGill and a Masters in Knowledge Management from Columbia University.

Allyson Waller

Journalist & Writing Consultant

Allyson Waller is a journalist based in Austin, Texas who has written for some of the top publications in the U.S. such as The New York Times, Miami Herald, and Teen Vogue. A journalism graduate from the University of Texas at Austin, Allyson started her career as a general assignment reporter, covering an array of topics, particularly politics and state government for The Texas Tribune. During her college career, she interned with notable publications such as the Miami Herald and The New York Times. Allyson now works as a newsletter writer for the Tribune, authoring their flagship newsletter, The Brief, while working across audience and product teams to inform content strategy. Allyson is available for sessions related to... Newsletter management, cover letter writing, journalistic writing, and research and academic writing/essays.