Conference Schedule: Thursday May 1, 2025

It seems more challenging than ever to engage and keep good people. What if you could build a more open, positive team environment that helped people your team feel listened to and valued from day one? You can. And Ted Lasso has been showing us the formula in the wildly popular streaming series. This interactive program explores how you can elevate and empower everyone on your team using lessons from coach Lasso, insights from improv performers, and the latest scientific research on team building. Through simple, yet powerful exercises you’ll discover the power of being 100% present and making people feel seen, heard, and valued. And when they are, they’ll be more productive and never want to leave. #Believe

• Create a more positive and welcoming culture
• Create a culture that allows everyone to feel valued.
• Be more collaborative and innovative on a consistent basis

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Steve Hughes is an award-winning speaker who helps people look and sound smart when they talk. He’s the author of Captivate and has been featured on NPR, BBC Radio and in The Wall Street Journal. He’s a former owner of a 50-person ad agency in Clayton and today he works with companies large and small, top law firms, national associations, and leading universities. Steve holds a BA in French Literature and European History from the University of Kansas and an MBA in Marketing from Washington University where he was awarded the prestigious Olin Cup. When he’s not speaking, he can be found performing improv with ComedySportz St. Louis and training for the 500-mile Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Pre employment drug testing and background checks help businesses ensure workplace safety, boost productivity and mitigate risks.

In this session we will examine how those issues caused by drug abuse may adversely affect the workplace causing low employee morale, hostility and potential harm to fellow employees.

We will look at the benefits of thorough background check as a secure and comprehensive process that can be used to gather information about your potential employee’s personal, professional, and even their financial history. The information collected can be used in your company’s decision-making process to guarantee that the candidate provided accurate information.

Making the correct decision is the first step to ensure workplace safety, protecting your company’s reputation and complying with legal regulations.

• Explore the benefits of drug testing
• Discuss the pro’s and con’s of conducting background checks
• Review the methods and employee cycle when testing is required or recommended

 Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Mid Missouri Drug Testing Collections, Inc.  MMDTC
Chief Operating Officer

I have been a part of MMDTC since May of 2023 and co-owner of the business since August 2023. MMDTC has been a family-owned drug and alcohol testing business since 2000. We have clients all over Missouri and surrounding states. We also act as a TPA (third party administrator) for business small and large over different variety of businesses including trucking companies, municipalities, factory, construction, banking, government agencies, healthcare, and court options. Our services include federal and non-federal drug testing, breath alcohol, hair and nail testing, background checks, DMV driving records, DNA testing, and patch management. MMDTC is certified to conduct reasonable suspicion training to clients. Our office is located in Columbia but we are able to connect with other testing sites over the entire country. We also offer some on-site testing where we come to your facility. All collectors are certified and professional.

Explore the rapidly evolving landscape of non-compete law and how Missouri employers can protect their interests when utilizing and evaluating restrictive covenants agreements.
Attendees will discuss compliance strategies, litigation trends, and methods for protecting employer interests outside of using restrictive covenants agreements.

This session will also address recent federal and state developments, including FTC and NLRB actions and expectations for the incoming administration. Join to gain crucial insight for navigating the complexities of modern non-compete agreements.

• Understand the current state of Missouri restrictive covenants laws, the restrictions that have “passed the test,” and the ways Missouri law interacts with other state and federal laws.
• Learn effective strategies for implementing restrictive covenants agreements with employees and be equipped to evaluate and address restrictive covenants agreements between applicants/new employees and other employers.
• Become familiar with other strategies organizations can utilize to protect their confidential information and customer relationships.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Jason Stavely advises employers on a variety of labor, employment, and human resource matters. He is a strategic partner to employers and human resource professionals in ensuring compliance with employment laws and addressing workplace-related disputes.

With experience at both the state and federal levels, Jason regularly defends employers in workplace-related litigation involving claims of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Jason also represents employers in disputes involving alleged wage and hour violations, including claims arising under the California Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA).

Jason appreciates the value of dispute prevention and frequently counsels clients on compliance with the:

• Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and California Labor Code
• Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and California Family Rights Act (CFRA)
• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
• Other state and federal discrimination, wage and hour, and workplace laws

Jason also devotes a substantial portion of his practice to both counseling clients and litigating claims concerning employee restrictive covenants and the protection of trade secrets. He spends time with clients to understand their unique circumstances and identify practical tools and solutions to address their most pressing needs.

Join Rae Lyon, owner of the Lyon Coaching Group for an engaging Energy Leadership workshop designed to transform the way you lead and interact within your organization. In just one hour, you’ll discover powerful strategies to harness your personal energy, elevate your leadership style, and inspire your team to achieve greater success.

What to Expect:
• Introduction to Energy Leadership: Understand the core principles of Energy Leadership and how energy levels impact your leadership effectiveness.
• Practical Techniques: Learn actionable tools to shift from reactive to proactive energy, fostering a more positive and productive work environment.
• Develop Next Steps: Identify what steps you can take to sustain your energy leadership journey beyond the workshop.

Why Attend?
• Boost Your Leadership Skills: Gain insights into managing your energy to lead with confidence and clarity.
• Enhance Team Dynamics: Create a more motivated and cohesive team by understanding and influencing collective energy levels.
• Drive Meaningful Change: Implement strategies that lead to sustained personal and organizational growth.

Whether you’re an owner, seasoned leader or emerging into a leadership role, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools to elevate your leadership presence and drive impactful results. Energize your approach and unlock your full potential with Lyon Coaching Group!

• Define the core principles of Energy Leadership and explain how different energy levels influence leadership effectiveness.
• Apply practical strategies to shift from reactive to proactive energy in workplace interactions.
• Develop next steps to take to sustain your energy leadership journey.

 Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Lyon Coaching Group, led by Rae Lyon, brings an incredible 30+ years of experience in management, leadership, and training across a diverse range of industries, including banking, education, finance, government, human resources, insurance, law enforcement, and manufacturing. Rae’s career is a testament to her passion for empowering individuals and organizations to thrive.

For over 15 years, Rae served as the associate director of the University of Missouri’s Missouri Training Institute, where she designed and delivered engaging, research-based training programs in supervision, management, and leadership to organizations across the state and beyond. She was also co-host of The Weekly Workplace, a top-ranked podcast in Missouri. Before that, she spent 7 years inspiring students as a high school teacher and a decade leading teams as a banking center vice president.

Rae is an ICF-certified coach and holds certifications in Gallup’s CliftonStrengths, Emotional Intelligence (EQ-i 2.0), and the Energy Leadership Index (ELI), bringing a wealth of tools to every coaching session. Whether working with individuals or groups, Lyon Coaching Group is committed to sparking growth, unlocking potential, and driving meaningful change with energy and expertise.

AI is changing the business landscape as we know it and it’s time you embrace it. You can no longer turn a blind eye to AI.  If you can Google, you can use any Generative AI tool to help you save time and increase your productivity in the areas of document creation, marking, image creation and more.   As clients’ expectations and needs change, businesses will need to adapt and harness AI. The impact of technology isn’t disappearing, and business professionals should embrace the changes coming their way instead of trying to fight them. If you want to keep up with the best practices and stay relevant in our emerging AI world you need to get an understanding of AI to help your business stay ahead of the curve.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Burton Kelso is the owner and Chief Tech Expert at Integral, an computer repair and IT support and managed services company. He is also a 2x TEDx Keynote Speaker and Expert on Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Social Media Marketing as well as a TV & Radio Tech Expert regularly appearing on networks across the globe offering viewers easy tips on computers, technology, Internet lifestyle, and gadgets. As computers and their related gadgets become more and more part of our everyday lives, he’ here to help you get the most out of your devices. His vision is to remove the frustrations and complexity of computers and technology and open people up to a world of new ideas, experiences, and opportunities with their devices\ and gadgets. He loves technology, he’s read all of the manuals, and he’s serious about making technology fun. safe, and easy to use for everyone!

In today’s environment employers must stay competitive in the hiring market.  We know offering health care benefits can help but many employers are looking for ways to control health care cost while still providing the best benefit possible. 

In this session we will:

• Educate people on various types of medical insurance plans.
• Know which type of insurance platform is best for my organization
• Understand the critical points of making the right insurance product decisions
• How to determine real cost savings in insurance

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Kent joined Bukaty Companies with 30 years of experience building, running and consulting for companies ranging from small to Fortune 500.

He understands what it takes to design an employee benefits program that is attractive to both employers and employees. With all his talents in the finance and operations world, Kent works diligently to provide solutions across the nation the many services Bukaty Companies can assist companies and executives with — Group Health Insurance, Commercial P&C, HIPAA compliance, COBRA administration and payroll, to mention a few.

By keeping the client’s needs as the driver, Kent implements a strategy that allows his clients to stay focused on what they do best.  His new clients have been averaging over a $1,600 per year savings per employee… and they now have better benefits.

Kent is a seasoned public speaker on multiple topics and is known a ones of the nation’s leading expert on Wellness programs, Contributions Strategies, Strategic Plan Design, Direct Contracting and Cost Containment programs. No one brings more passion to their clients than he does.  Kent and his team deliver a world class benefit / insurance experience -so his clients can stay focused on running their company. 

Kent graduated from the University of Missouri – Columbia, with a combined degree in Marketing/ Management/ Public Relations.

Licensed in Life & Health / Commercial Property & Casualty 

Verticals

 All companies over 10 employees – Associations, Auto, Banks, Churches, Construction, Distribution, Food Industry, Gaming and Hospitality, Manufacturing, Marine, Medical providers, Public, Schools, Utilities, 501-c3’s,

Kent Friend

National Strategic Benefit Consultant

Commercial Property & Casualty

4601 College Boulevard, Suite 100 | Leawood, KS 66211

Direct: 913.777.7535 | Cell: 816.803.7406

KFriend@bukaty.com

www.bukaty.com

This presentation will include an introduction to the FMLA, taking FMLA leave and administering FMLA leave. It will also go over the employees’ rights under the FMLA and termination while an employee is on FMLA leave.
It will also include best practices for employers and takeaways to assist in properly dealing with FMLA.

• Attendees will leave with a better understanding of FMLA and employee benefits and protections under the FMLA
• Attendees will understand how to administer FMLA and gain a better understanding of employer notice requirements and record keeping requirements.
• Attendees will gain a better understanding of employee rights under FMLA, when an employee can be fired while on FMLA and best practices for employers when it comes to FMLA and termination.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Jack Fleming grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He earned his Juris Doctor degree in 2015 from St. Louis University School of Law. Jack began defending employers and insurers after law school, as an associate attorney in St. Louis. Since August 2018, Jack has defended state agencies and employees in civil rights and discrimination lawsuits while working in the litigation section at the Missouri Attorney General’s Office. Jack started at Vessell Bridges Murphy in January 2022.

Words are powerful—they can ignite innovation, foster collaboration, and build meaningful connections. AND they can just as easily shut down ideas, stifle creativity, and create discord.

In this session, we’ll explore how the intentional use of language can transform communication, nurture collaboration, and achieve specific outcomes.  We’ll break down the difference between words that kill conversations and those that invite curiosity and connection.

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize Conversation Killers vs. Conversation Invitations
• Master Conversation Extenders
• Explore ways to improve communication at all levels of the organization
• Discover how to Disagree without Being Disagreeable

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Jenn Peterson is a Solutions Advisor with the BecomeMore Group focusing on helping companies with their most valued resource – their people. She has over twenty-five years of experience in design, project management, leadership and sales roles that focused on aligning solutions to the needs of her clients.  She leverages her experience and passion for working with organizations and individuals to level-up and be the best they can be through hiring top talent, aligning strategy, and building dream teams.  She is a skilled facilitator and connects with people through shared experiences and stories – helping them along their own journey to becoming more.

In today’s competitive talent landscape, traditional methods of attracting, onboarding, and retaining employees are no longer enough to stand out. Virtual Reality (VR) is transforming HR by creating immersive, engaging, and authentic experiences that resonate with candidates and employees alike.

In this session, Johnny Eaker, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of BeThere Immersive, will explore how VR technology is redefining the way organizations connect with talent. Learn how immersive tools enable HR leaders to showcase company culture, career opportunities, and job roles in powerful new ways.

By integrating VR into your HR strategy, you can modernize your processes, reduce hiring friction, and create lasting connections with top-tier talent. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the future of HR and see how VR can help your organization thrive in an ever-changing workforce landscape.

• How VR enhances recruitment by immersing candidates in branded virtual experiences.
• Ways VR can streamline onboarding, reduce ramp-up time, and increase employee engagement.
• How immersive technology contributes to better retention by improving training, development, and workforce satisfaction.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Johnny Eaker is a creative entrepreneur and marketing strategist with a proven track record of leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive results.

As Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at BeThere Immersive, Johnny leads the development of RecruiterXR, an innovative VR solution revolutionizing talent attraction, onboarding, and retention. By immersing candidates in interactive, branded virtual experiences, RecruiterXR enables organizations to authentically showcase company culture, career opportunities, and values—connecting with top-tier talent in a more engaging and effective way.

With experience spanning entrepreneurial ventures, corporate leadership, and both in-house and external agencies, Johnny brings a unique, video-first, and people-centric approach to HR and marketing challenges. His work bridges the gap between technology and human connection, helping businesses modernize recruitment strategies and elevate their employer brand.

At the forefront of VR and XR innovations in HR, Johnny is passionate about empowering organizations to harness immersive technologies to attract, engage, and retain talent in a competitive market.

This presentation dives into the innovative application of Human Design in the workplace to empower employees and leaders alike. By understanding individual strengths, communication styles, and decision-making strategies, participants will learn how to align team dynamics for enhanced collaboration and productivity. This session will provide actionable tools to foster workplace harmony, unlock hidden potential, and create a thriving, purpose-driven environment that thrives.

• Understanding Individual Designs
• Improving Collaboration and Communication
• Boost Productivity and Engagement

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Founder of Unleash Your Amazing
Intuitive Coach & Performance Improvement Consultant

Tammy Ebright is the Founder of Unleash Your Amazing and an Intuitive Coach and Performance Improvement Consultant dedicated to helping individuals and families heal, communicate, and thrive. With over 30 years of sales success, including two decades in the mortgage industry, Tammy brings unmatched insight into achieving excellence in high-pressure environments.

Her journey of self-discovery began after the sudden loss of her husband, David, in 2012, leaving her as a solo mom to her two children, then just 4 and 10 years old. Navigating grief and the challenges of parenting alone, Tammy discovered her passion for guiding others toward personal growth, self-awareness, and authentic connection.

Tammy is certified in DISC, Driving Forces, Emotional Intelligence, Acumen and is a dedicated student at the BG5 Institute, where she deepens her expertise in understanding unique human potential. Now, as a mom to two thriving young adults, she empowers her clients to uncover their untapped potential, reignite their passion, and strengthen their relationships.

Known for her warm, heart-centered approach, Tammy helps others explore their authentic selves, align with their strengths, and create meaningful growth in both life and business.

Trump’s Second Term as President has ushered in an array of changes to federal employment laws and regulations; including those involving a new salary threshold for exempt Executive, Administrative, Professional, and Highly Compensated employees, lifting of restrictions regarding non-compete agreements, a shift in labor policy, and a new approach to enforcement of federal laws. Rex Fennessey and John Marino will walk you through the latest changes so that your organization can take advantage of new opportunities and avoid new potential pitfalls in the ever-changing landscape of federal labor and employment law.

• Understand what changes have been made to federal labor and employment laws in the first few months of Trump’s second term.
• Learn strategies for capitalizing on the Trump administration’s more employer-friendly regulatory scheme.
• Avoid misconceptions about what these new changes permit or prohibit

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Rex P. Fennessey represents the interests of employers in all areas of labor and employment law. Prior to joining McMahon Berger, Mr. Fennessey served for six years as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Missouri, where he defended the interests of the State, its agencies, and its elected and appointed officials in civil rights, employment discrimination, education law, and professional licensing matters.

His current practice includes all facets of employment law, including employment discrimination cases under Title VII, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family Medical Leave Act, the Equal Pay Act, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, claims of race and color discrimination and retaliation under 42 U.S.C. § 1981,

Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), the Occupational Safety and Health Act, whistleblower and public policy wrongful discharge claims. and the Missouri and Illinois Human Rights Acts. Mr. Fennessey also routinely represents both public and private employers in cases brought under the Fair Labor Standards Act, and state wage and hour laws; such as the Missouri Minimum Wage Law, the Illinois Minimum Wage Law, and the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act. Mr. Fennessey is recognized in the field of wage and hour litigation and has extensive experience representing employers in complex, collective and class action lawsuits.

Mr. Fennessey litigates before administrative agencies, Missouri and Illinois circuit courts, the Missouri Courts of Appeals, the Missouri Supreme Court, both United States District Courts in Missouri, the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Illinois, the U.S. District Court for the Southern Division of Texas, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, and U.S. Tax Court. Mr. Fennessey further represents employers in U.S. Department of Labor investigations, audits, and represents management before the National Labor Relations Board in representation matters and unfair labor practice charges, represents employers before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). and state fair employment practice agencies, and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA).

Mr. Fennessey is a sought-after speaker for companies and organizations on a broad range of employment topics. His many presentations include wage-and-hour compliance, how employers can systematically handle complicated ADA, FMLA and Workers’ Compensation leave issues, garnishments, and other continually developing federal and state labor laws.

Mr. Fennessey is recognized for his experience guiding new and existing non-profit organizations on a broad range of issues, and regularly assists these clients in obtaining 501(c) exemption recognition before the Internal Revenue Service.

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John J. Marino, Jr. represents the interest of management in all facets of Labor & Employment Law. Mr. Marino received his juris doctorate from Saint Louis University School of Law where he earned a Certificate in Labor and Employment Law.

Mr. Marino’s employment practice includes all areas of employment law, including employment discrimination claims under Title VII and the Missouri Commission on Human Rights, the American with Disabilities Act, and the Family and Medical Leave Act. Mr. Marino also represents management before the National Labor Relations Board in charges of unfair labor practices, challenges to elections and post-election conduct. In addition, he advises clients on employment-related matters such as employment contracts, policy matters and daily human resources issues.

Mr. Marino is very active in the human resource community. He has been on the Board of the St. Louis Chapter of SHRM (SHRM-STL) including serving as President of the organization. Mr. Marino currently serves on the state board for Missouri SHRM as Vice Director.

Outside of his professional interests, Mr. Marino is currently serving an appointment with the City of Chesterfield Planning and Zoning Commission. Mr. Marino and his wife are also very active in their communities through volunteer work with various organizations such as St. Patrick Center, Cardinal Glennon and St. Louis University High School.

Mr. Marino’s experience prior to joining McMahon Berger includes insurance defense litigation representing corporations in a variety of interests. Mr. Marino has argued both in trial and before the Missouri Appellate Court. He has also served as associate in-house counsel, handling a variety of employment and general business issues.

This talk dives into the world of neurodiversity in the workplace, aiming to equip managers and leaders with the knowledge and strategies to foster an inclusive environment that celebrates cognitive diversity. We’ll discuss how neurodiverse conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological variations bring unique perspectives and skills that, when nurtured, can drive innovation, problem-solving, and productivity.

• Gain a Clear Understanding of Neurodiversity: Attendees will learn to identify and understand various neurodiverse conditions, recognizing how different cognitive styles can enhance workplace creativity, problem-solving, and productivity.
• Develop Practical Strategies for Inclusive Management: Participants will acquire actionable strategies for adapting communication, adjusting workflows, and creating supportive environments tailored to the needs of neurodiverse employees.
• Build and Promote a Culture of Inclusion: Leaders will learn to foster a workplace culture that values and celebrates neurodiversity, emphasizing empathy, reducing stigma, and implementing policies that support long-term inclusivity and employee well-being

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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HR Whisperer: HR Director by day and I moonlight as an HR consultant by night, unravelling the mysteries of the corporate world one employee issue at a time. If you have workplace drama, I’ll sift through it like a detective solving a juicy mystery novel. 

Recovering Attorney: In my past life, I proudly bore the title of attorney, battling it out in courtrooms and boardrooms. But I’ve seen the light! I’ve transitioned to a new, exciting phase in my life. Now, I help others navigate the legal landscape, steering them clear of the pitfalls and landmines I once braved. Consider me your legal guide through the treacherous terrain, having survived the trenches and emerged wiser and, dare I say, with a slightly more humorous outlook on life.

Mom of Four: But wait, there’s more! In my superhero cape (or, more accurately, my “Mom jeans”), I wrangle not one, not two, but four mini-humans who insist on calling me “Mom.” They’ve taught me more about negotiation and diplomacy than any law school ever could.  Globetrotting Foodie: When I’m not arguing cases or parenting, I’m jet-setting around the globe in search of the world’s most delectable delicacies. My passport might as well be a food journal with stamps, and my heart belongs to every street food vendor, Michelin-starred restaurant, and hole-in-the-wall eatery.

Proudly Neurodivergent: Beneath it all, I’m a neurodivergent warrior. My brain works in wonderfully unique ways, and I embrace it with open arms. Think of me as the Picasso of thinking, with a canvas of brilliant ideas that might zigzag, swirl, or loop-de-loop – but always with a dash of brilliance.

So basically, in my multifaceted world, I’m a legal luminary turned legal guide, an HR sorcerer, a mom to a formidable quartet, a global epicurean explorer, a neurodivergent pioneer, and a recovering attorney with tales to tell and wisdom to share!

My Think like an Improviser program at work is different, fun and the soft skills lessons stick with you long after the event. It’s because my program is participatory.

This program takes all of the benefits of doing improv, such as true active listening, presence, empathy, collaboration, self-confidence development, trusting one’s voice, and brings it to folks in a fun, participatory environment designed to give people personal insights about themselves. It’s transformative.

This Program gets people to think on their feet, to work more effectively as a team and to be more confident in every situation.

Plus, it’s a lot of fun. You will be laughing as you learn. These lessons will stick with you long after the event.

• Thinking on your feet
• Empathy
• Active Listening and presence

 Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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I’m Mike McGuire, and I’m here to transform the way your team thinks, collaborates, and feels.

My Think Like an Improviser program at work is different, fun, and the soft skills lessons stick with you long after the event. It’s because my program is participatory. It makes a huge difference.

Through years and years of doing improv, I’ve created a keynote program for people that takes all of the benefits of doing improv, such as true active listening, presence, empathy, collaboration, self-confidence development, trusting one’s voice, and brings it to folks in a fun, participatory environment designed to give people personal insights about themselves. It’s transformative.

My program gets people to think on their feet, work more effectively as a team, and be more confident in every situation.

So, what does it mean to think like an improviser? It means being fully present, listening to truly understand another person’s perspective, rather than just responding. Improvisers view every idea as golden and every person as significant and important. It’s how human beings should treat one another.

Improvisers collaborate and build upon ideas, rather than making it about themselves and their ideas. It’s the ultimate in collaboration and brainstorming.

If you want to learn how to play pickleball, you don’t just listen to a speaker talk about pickleball. You get out on the court, right? You do it.

It’s the same for soft skills development. The learning is by doing and practicing them. That’s why people have “aha moments” or personal realizations about themselves when doing these exercises and when we talk about observations afterward. That’s where real change begins. That’s why the lessons stick with people. It can transform the individual, the team, and the company.

My program is a combination of soft skills training and team building. It works for groups of all sizes, from smaller workshops to conferences. And, no matter the size of the group, everyone laughs and has fun. People learn best when they’re happy! People are happiest when they’re engaged, taking risks, and growing.

My programs are fun and insightful. Everyone will be laughing and learning together. I live and breathe the principles of improv. I have been doing improv since 2007 and keynotes since 2017. I believe in the power of improv because I’ve seen it transform lives.

In addition to keynote programs, I own and run ComedySportz St. Louis.

Website: www.CSzStLouis.com
Website: www.MikeMcGuire.com
Email: Mike@MikeMcGuire.com

This session focuses on the critical importance of recognizing and intervening when a coworker is experiencing mental health challenges. In professional environments, consistent interaction with colleagues allows for heightened awareness of their behaviors and emotional well-being. When a coworker exhibits signs of struggle—manifested through discernible changes in demeanor, increased absenteeism, or indications of distress during interactions—it is imperative to take appropriate action.

The objective of this session is to equip attendees with the knowledge and practical tools necessary to support a coworker in need effectively.

We’ll cover topics such as recognizing the early signs of mental health issues, understanding the potential barriers that may prevent someone from seeking help, and learning how to approach the conversation with empathy and care. Additionally, we will discuss the resources available within the organization and in the community to facilitate proper support and guidance.

By the end of this session, you will have the confidence to step in and provide meaningful assistance to a colleague who may be struggling, ultimately fostering a more supportive and understanding workplace environment. Your proactive involvement can significantly impact someone’s mental well-being and encourage them to seek the help they may need.

After the session, participants will:

• Have a greater understanding of the various signs and symptoms that may indicate an individual is experiencing a mental health condition. This includes recognizing both emotional and behavioral indicators, as well as understanding the context in which these symptoms may arise.
• Develop a better understanding of the active bystander process. This involves learning the steps to take when witnessing a coworker in distress, including how to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action to support the individual.
• Acquire basic knowledge of intervention techniques designed to assist a coworker who may be struggling. Participants will explore practical strategies for initiating conversations, offering support, and guiding their colleagues to appropriate resources or professional help when needed.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Pete Ungaro is one of the co-founders of Guardian Training Service and proudly served almost 18 years as a Deputy Sheriff with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office in Iowa City.  While at the Sheriff’s Office, he was certified as a Drug Recognition Expert, Drug Recognition Expert Instructor, Standardized Field Sobriety Test Instructor, Guest Instructor for the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, Reserve Academy Instructor, Law Enforcement Representative in the Rural Roads Safety Video, and recipient of the Life-Saving Award.  After leaving the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office he was employed by Kirkwood College as the program coordinator and instructor for the Criminal Justice program.  Pete left Kirkwood College to start the Guardian Training Service, a corporation dedicated to providing mental health and resiliency training to employees as a tool to help them thrive in their personal and professional lives. Pete currently holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with an emphasis on Police Psychology, a master’s degree in Criminal Justice with an emphasis on Leadership and Executive Management, and is in the dissertation process of his Ph.D. in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensic Psychology.  His dissertation and expertise are focused on officer wellness, PTSD, and the impact of repeated traumatic events.

Summary of what is happening in the Missouri Legislature involving businesses development and employment.

 Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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Representative Jeff Vernetti, serving District 123, was elected to his position in November of 2024.  He currently is serving on the Budget and Economic Development Committees, the Special Committee on Tourism and the Sub Committee on Appropriations – General Administration. 

In addition, he is currently a business owner and developer at the Lake of the Ozarks, one of the premier tourist destinations in the state. 

He moved to the lake area to develop Ballparks National, one of the leading youth baseball and softball facilities in the country.    The company began operation in 2020 and has already held over 6,000 games played by teams from 21 states, bringing in millions of dollars to the local community on an annual basis.  In addition to being a minority owner and founder, he was General Manager for the first five years the company was in existence, overseeing a staff of over 50 people and establishing Ballparks National as one of the top attractions in the Lake area. 

Ballparks National has won several awards, including being named Missouri’s best Youth Sports Complex and Lake Area’s and LOREDC Small Business of the Year. 

In addition to his role at Ballparks National, Vernetti is also the owner of two other Lake area businesses.  He opened LOZ Sports Training in November of 2021, which is the Lake area’s only youth sports training facility.  Located in Osage Beach, the complex focuses on team rentals and individual training lessons for young athletes. 

In June of 2023, he and his wife Kelly opened Vernetti’s Italian Grocer, located on the historic square in Camdenton.  The store offers a wide selection of deli meats and cheeses, entrees, pastas, sandwiches, and dry good items.   Then in 2025 they opened their second location in Columbia.   They have brought a taste of the St. Louis Hill to mid-Missouri.

Before moving to the area, Vernetti worked in sports broadcasting in St. Louis for ten years, mostly as a talk show host.  His duties not only included hosting a radio show but providing all of the sales and marketing support for the show on a brokered basis.  He handled all of the sales, billing and collections for the show.  While in radio, he also owned two indoor sports training complexes for three years in the St. Louis area. 

In addition to his radio broadcasting and sports facility experience, Vernetti has worked in sales and sales management in several industries.  He worked as a sales manager for SBC Communications and Charter Communications and in outside sales for Glazers Distributors.  For almost 20 years, Vernetti has managed annual budgets, revenue projections, hitting required sales goals, and all facets of personnel oversight (payroll, HR, benefits, etc).  He also worked for BSN Sports, selling uniforms and equipment to schools and teams in the Central Missouri region.    

Currently Vernetti is involved in a number of local organizations and charities.  He served on the board of directors for Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC), Lake West Chamber of Commerce, Lake of the Ozarks Regional Economic Development Council (LOREDC) and is a member of Camdenton Rotary Club, the Osage Beach Elks Club, the Camden County Republican Club, and Calvary Chapel Lake of the Ozarks. 

He has been married to his wife Kelly, who is currently a teacher at School of the Osage High School, since 2001.  They have two children, Dominick (21) and Isabella (18). 

 

No matter who you are, burnout will affect your life. The real question is, of the burnout that is in your life, what is the ratio of burnout you are feeling and burnout you are causing? Sometimes it is easy to see how things are happening to you that are not fair. But others may be thinking the same thing about you. This eye opening and real presentation will do a few things. It will make you think. It will help you be a more honest evaluator of your situation. It will help you see what is going on in all areas of life so that you can proactively avoid burnout!

• At the end of this session, the learner will be able to assess nine different types of leadership and what that type of person needs when they hit specific types of burnout.
• At the end of this session, the learner will be able to understand how and why their private life can affect their an individuals work life.
• At the end of this session, the learner will be able to identify the symptoms of burnout within their teams and organizations.
• At the end of this session, the learner will be able to comprehend what it means to get back to their roots about what truly matters to them and live in that space.

Intended Audience: Private Sector/Public Sector

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My life path has always been connected to people. Thirty years ago I sat down with my typewriter and started typing letters to folks because I wanted to coach kids. I became a teacher who had a special mission for kids. I had a simple belief system; leave them better for knowing me. I needed to provide for my family so I started a lawn business as well and it exploded. I stepped away from teaching and started my own youth sports organization called More Than Athletes. While it grew to be one of the largest basketball organizations in Kansas City, my biggest blessing was reaching into the lives of families. I used my organization to reach out to families of all socio-economic backgrounds. I gave presentations to thousands of kids and parents about what is really important in the game of life. I am now moving towards a new audience as I travel the country inspiring others to live the life they were meant to live. I am living this dream by writing a book to help men, and speaking all over the country guiding folk through my podcast; The Ben Keech Show.