Lisa X. Walden

We spend nearly a third of our lives at work, yet millions wake up on Monday mornings with dread rather than enthusiasm. The sobering truth? Most workplaces drain human potential instead of unleashing it. But a shift is underway—visionary organizations are recognizing a fundamental truth: their greatest competitive advantage isn’t technology or strategy, but their people. These forward thinkers are crafting environments where leadership values vulnerability over perfection, employees have each others’ backs, and a shared sense of purpose drives engagement.

Igniting a bold vision for the future of work, this keynote asks: What if we bravely and unwaveringly put people first? It challenges outdated notions of work ethic and corporate culture, exploring needed mindset shifts around everything from how to build trusting teams, tend to emotional culture, show up as an effective leader, and even prevent burnout. Through illuminating case studies and best-in-class examples gleaned from years of studying truly human-first companies, attendees will reimagine what work can (and maybe should) be, and gain action-driven insights into how to create a workplace that not only doesn’t suck: it’s awesome. 

ATTENDEE TAKEAWAYS:

• An exploration of the key elements for a great organization: leadership that balances action with compassion, communication grounded in empathy, and a culture that prioritizes psychological safety
• How to embrace today’s trending workplace topics to stay competitive in recruitment and retention efforts
• Actionable strategies to change company culture for the better, no matter your role

Fact: every generation brings a unique perspective to the workplace. From Baby Boomers who value traditional communication channels to Gen Z’s digital-first mindset, and Gen X’s self-reliant approach to Millennials’ collaborative spirit – each group has shaped how we work today. While these differences infuse organizations with diversity of thought, they can also spark unexpected friction. Rather than leveraging our distinct perspectives, we fall into the trap of stereotyping and finger-pointing. Generational misunderstandings bubble up and don’t just create tension – they actively hinder our ability to do great work. 

To move beyond snap assumptions and get people to a place of understanding and connection, this presentation dives deep into generational identities. It explores how historical events, technological advances, and social movements have shaped the generations’ varied approaches to work. By first breaking down the “why,” we’re able to take a more intentional look at “what” each generation wants in their professional life, which makes for a meaningful discussion of “how” to navigate a multigenerational workplace. Edutainment at its finest, this keynote combines nostalgia, fun, and actionable learning to help bridge divides and harness generational differences as your organization’s most powerful engine for innovation, collaboration, and success. 

ATTENDEE TAKEAWAYS

• A comprehensive exploration of each generation’s formative experiences and how these shape their workplace values, communication styles, and career expectations
• Practical strategies for identifying and bridging generational gaps in communication, work styles, and professional relationships
• Tactical ideas for creating an inclusive, multi-generational workplace

Ever notice how the most memorable bosses aren’t the ones with the fanciest titles or corner offices? The leaders we cherish are those who make us feel seen, heard, and supported—especially when the going gets tough. In today’s workplace, where stress levels are high, employee engagement is decreasing, and constant change is inevitable, compassionate leadership isn’t just a nice to have—it’s a necessity for creating awesome workplaces. 

This keynote flips the script on traditional leadership. You’ll learn how leading with heart can be your greatest strength in a professional landscape obsessed with metrics and productivity. Drawing from real-world examples sourced from trending reports, case studies, and social media discourse, you’ll walk away with a deep understanding of what employees are looking for in leadership, and how compassion can transform every interaction for the better. Whether you’re leading a small team or an entire organization, this session will equip you with tools to lead with authenticity, inspire loyalty, and create a workplace where everyone can flourish.

ATTENDEE TAKEAWAYS

• Insight into the three cornerstones of compassionate leadership and ways to apply them in everyday interactions
• How to balance grace with accountability without sacrificing compassion or productivity 
• Proven techniques for building better teams through the alchemy of trust

Communication breakdowns remain one of the greatest workplace frustrations—and it’s no surprise. We’re somehow expected to master the unwritten rules of text messaging, phone calls, video conferences, and face-to-face interactions through nothing but trial and error. There’s little to no guidance on how to navigate day-to-day workplace exchanges, things like crafting kind but direct feedback, advocating for our ideas, and tweaking messaging for the recipient and circumstance. But it doesn’t have to be this way! With a little bit of practice, some foundational principles, and the addition of awareness and intentionality to the mix, we can improve our skills tenfold. 

Think of this keynote as your crash course on the must-have practices for effective workplace conversation and connection. It explores the ins and outs of changing professional communication etiquette (for example, why do some people think a lack of exclamation points is anxiety-inducing, whereas others find it perfectly normal?), and helps you turn potential communication minefields into opportunities for connection. Whether you’re navigating hybrid meetings, finessing your email, or preparing for a feedback session, you’ll discover practical tools that you can implement right away, so that no message gets lost in translation. 

ATTENDEE TAKEAWAYS

• How to use empathetic communication and active listening to create real understanding, not just transactional exchanges
• Awareness of the most prevalent messaging mishaps in the workplace, and how to overcome them
• Practical communication skills to make clarity and intention your default mode

An important demographic shift is underway—by 2030, Generation Z will comprise 30% of the U.S. workforce. These digital natives (most of whom have never known a time without smartphones and social media) are fundamentally reshaping workplace norms, communication etiquette, and leadership expectations. The work world needs to embrace this new generation, but too often, organizations and leaders can get stuck on common frustrations like “They have no work ethic,” “Such poor communication skills!” and “Why won’t they just show up on time?!” 

Through proprietary research and insights from Gen Z professionals, you’ll learn what informs Gen Z’s perspective on work, why some of their mindsets seem so contradictory to generations prior, and what you can do to better support them as young professionals navigating the workplace. Because here’s the thing: like every generation before them, Gen Z is changing work for the better, and while yes—they need a bit of training to get to their A-game (they are young professionals after all)—there is so much they can teach us. This keynote equips leaders with actionable insights to attract, retain, and empower Gen Z talent, while still fostering an inclusive environment that benefits employees of all ages.

ATTENDEE TAKEAWAYS

• Perspective-transforming insights on Gen Z employees, and why they think the way they do
• How to embrace the best of Gen Z while also offering training, mentorship, and resources to get them up to speed with today’s workplace
• A look at the main points of tension between Gen Zers and other generations at work, and what can be done to ease those frustrations and encourage multi-generational collaboration

Without question, artificial intelligence is shaping the future of work. But in this rush to embrace AI, we’re racing to automate everything from customer service to creative work. But amidst the tech gold rush, something essential is getting lost: the irreplaceable power of human connection, creativity, and emotional intelligence. While AI promises efficiency and scale, it’s those human moments at work—a thoughtful conversation, an intuitive understanding, a compassionate leader—that truly drive innovation, build trust, and create lasting impact.

“Staying Human in the Age of AI” isn’t about teaching you how to use the latest AI tool or warning you about the robot apocalypse. It’s a deep dive into the art of remaining gloriously, messily human in a professional world that’s increasingly powered by circuits and code. It’s a reminder that leaders need to prioritize the humans at work. Through an exploration of case studies, the latest workplace reports, and relatable examples, you’ll discover how to cultivate meaningful human interactions in a world obsessed with automation.

ATTENDEE TAKEAWAYS

• Practical approaches to build authentic relationships in our digital landscape
• How leadership can leverage emotional intelligence as a competitive advantage
• A look at a human-first workplace that prioritizes mental health and well-being, cultivates a generosity mindset, and develops leaders who foster community as their foundation for success