Joseph (Joe) Drab has been a firefighter/paramedic for 14 years. Over the course of his career he has attended a 7 month fire academy, been stationed at one of the busiest fire stations in the state of Virginia, was the lead instructor for two fire recruit academies, been trained as a vessel operations pilot (fireboat), been trained and assigned to Rescue Company 1 (Special Operations), been a founding member of the Peer Support Team, been Firefighter of the Year, and a founding member of the Community Outreach Program.

Joe Drab serves the citizens of the City of Norfolk, Virginia. Norfolk is approximately 66 square miles with a population of roughly 250,000 residents. This population swells to almost 350,000 people during the work day. Norfolk is also the home of the largest naval base in the world (Naval Station Norfolk).

Norfolk Fire Rescue runs upwards of 50,000 fire and EMS calls every year. These calls are answered from fourteen different fire stations placed strategically throughout the city. The department is made up of over 500 individuals and has 14 ambulances, 14 fire engines, 7 ladder trucks, 2 heavy rescues, 2 fire boats, and three battalion chiefs that make up the Operations aspect of the department.

Norfolk Fire Rescue responds to calls that are a matter of life-or-death multiple times a day. Not many days go by without something significant occurring. While it may not be exactly like the movies, enough happens within Norfolk to keep Norfolk Fire Rescue personnel busy responding to calls that test the members intelligence, bravery, and ability to think fast.

Walid Nasserdeen is a supply chain expert, angel investor, and operations executive who specializes in helping fast-growing CPG brands scale with precision. As the Founder of W.NDeen Advisory, he has redefined how businesses approach demand planning, inventory management, and operational efficiency—ensuring they eliminate stockouts, optimize inventory, and improve profitability.

With over 15 years of experience in finance, economics, and operations, Walid has worked with industry giants like Mattel, Barbie, and Pelican, as well as an impressive portfolio of emerging brands. His expertise in Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP), forecasting, and change management has helped companies bridge the gap between strategy and execution, turning supply chain bottlenecks into opportunities for efficiency and scale.

Ray Hennessy is a dedicated wildlife photographer with a passion for capturing the beauty of nature, particularly birds, through creative lighting and unique compositions. His journey into wildlife photography began in 2007 as a passionate hobby, which has since evolved into his full-time career.

Since 2020, Ray has been living on the road, traveling across the United States and Canada in his van to explore and photograph stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. His distinctive approach to photography emphasizes not only the subject but also its surrounding habitat, allowing viewers to experience the full story of the wildlife he encounters.

Beyond his work behind the lens, Ray is committed to educating and mentoring other photographers. He has had the privilege of teaching students from around the world, both in person and remotely, helping them refine their skills and develop their own artistic vision. Through his workshops, he strives to share his knowledge and inspire others to grow in their wildlife photography journey.

Pawel Durakiewicz is an inspiring adventurer and entrepreneur who shows us that challenges can be transformed into amazing opportunities. Born near Warsaw, Poland, Pawel went on to study in the United States at schools like Pepperdine University in California and the Carlson School of Management in Minnesota. Though his early life included struggles with alcoholism, he chose to turn his challenges into strengths.

Determined to rewrite his story, Pawel not only overcame his personal battles but also set two Guinness World Records. One of his most incredible achievements is a six-month, over 2,100-mile barefoot journey across the Iberian Peninsula—proving that with persistence and hard work, anything is possible. Today, living in the beautiful Sicilian countryside, he founded Salemi Ranch, an addiction treatment centre dedicated to helping others overcome similar struggles. His journey is a great reminder that setbacks can lead to new beginnings, and that each of us has the power to achieve greatness with self-discipline and determination.

Jeff Meyer is the CEO of Tuff-N-Uff Productions, an amateur mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company based in Las Vegas, Nevada. Founded in 1994 by his brother, Barry Meyer, Tuff-N-Uff has been instrumental in providing a platform for amateur fighters to showcase their skills. After Barry's passing in 2013, Jeff took over the organization, continuing his brother's legacy and expanding its reach. Under Jeff's leadership, Tuff-N-Uff has hosted over 130 live events, featuring more than 3,000 athletes, with over 60 fighters advancing to the UFC, including notable names like Ronda Rousey and Felicia Spencer. Jeff's commitment to the sport and dedication to nurturing emerging talent have solidified Tuff-N-Uff's reputation as a premier amateur MMA promotion.

Brigadier General (Ret.) Robert G. “Blend’r” Novotny is the Executive Director of F-15 Business Development within Boeing’s Air Dominance Division. In this role, he leads Boeing’s global outreach efforts for the F-15 portfolio, strengthening partnerships and delivering advanced air dominance solutions to allied forces around the world.

Prior to joining Boeing, General Novotny completed a distinguished 28-year career in the United States Air Force, where he served as a command pilot with over 3,000 flight hours—more than 500 of those in combat. As an F-15C/E instructor pilot and operational test pilot, he flew a wide variety of aircraft including bombers, helicopters, airlift, and remotely piloted aircraft. His leadership in combat and test operations set a standard of excellence across multiple theaters.

General Novotny held command positions at every level, culminating as Commander of the 57th Wing at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada—the Air Force’s premier advanced testing and training wing. There, he oversaw 36 squadrons across 12 installations, managing over 182 aircraft including F-15s, F-16s, F-22s, F-35s, and MQ-9s, as well as supporting bomber, reconnaissance, and airlift platforms. He led the overhaul of RED FLAG, expanded the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, and revitalized the Thunderbirds, leading to their iconic “America Strong” flyovers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He previously commanded the 48th Fighter Wing—“The Liberty Wing”—at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, leading critical NATO readiness efforts and directing multiple counter-ISIS strikes into Africa. As Chief of Staff to the Air Component Coordination Element and Deputy Chief of Staff for Air Operations in Afghanistan, he helped execute a Presidentially directed force posture change while maintaining ongoing counterterrorism operations.

As Deputy Director of Plans, Programs, Requirements and Analysis for Air Combat Command, he shaped over $60 billion in annual programming for more than 146,000 personnel and 2,800 aircraft. He was a key architect behind the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) and the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) family of systems.

A distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, Undergraduate Pilot Training, the Naval Command & Staff College, and the National War College, General Novotny holds four master’s degrees in public administration, military art and science, national security, and strategic studies.

His military decorations include four Legions of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, seven Air Medals, the Air Force Combat Action Medal, and the NATO Meritorious Service Medal.

General Novotny’s expertise, strategic insight, and legacy of innovation continue to impact the future of air combat and defense leadership around the globe.

Joe Flano represents Major League Barber, The Original Barber Brand, and is a dedicated professional in the barbering industry. His journey began at the age of 16, inspired by a transformative experience at Silk N Classy Barber College in Chicago, IL. By 17, he had become a licensed barber and has since devoted himself to the craft with unwavering passion.

Joe’s career has led him to educate and host continued education classes, as well as barber competitions, at prestigious international trade shows, including ISSE Long Beach, IBS New York, America’s Beauty Show, IBS Las Vegas, San Juan Beauty Show, Premiere Birmingham, Bronner Bros., and Premiere Orlando. In addition, Major League Barber organizes educational and competition events across various U.S. cities, strengthening industry standards and fostering camaraderie among barbers.

Driven by a deep commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, Joe values the opportunity to connect with fellow barbers and build meaningful relationships within the community. Major League Barber is preparing to launch the pioneering Online Barber Platform, providing international barbers with a comprehensive online trade show experience that transcends geographical boundaries.

Additionally, Joe offers his expertise through Barber Expo & Tradeshow Consulting, assisting aspiring barbers in bringing their event-hosting aspirations to life in their respective cities. Committed to elevating the barbering profession, he continues to contribute to its ongoing growth and excellence.

Chris Cleveland is the lead singer for Stars Go Dim, an American pop rock band from Tulsa, Oklahoma that formed in late 2007. Overcoming his 16 surgeries on his left ear, Chris is completely deaf out of that ear and still perseveres in his career as a successful singer-songwriter.

Jeffrey R. Woolf, adjunct professor of Jewish History at the Graduate School, also teaches at Bar-Ilan University in Israel.

Dr. Woolf received his PhD in medieval history at Harvard University in 1991. Upon receiving his doctorate, he spent two years at Yale University, as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Department of Religion. Woolf also has served as a visiting professor at Yale University, Yeshiva University and New York University.

Dr. Woolf is the author of over thirty-five scholarly monographs. He has edited three books, among them the recent translation of Rabbi Soloveitchik’s, Kol Dodi Dofeq. He is presently completing a major study entitled, Sacred Community in Medieval Franco-Germany: The Ashkenazic Qehillah Qedoshah, which will be published by E. J. Brill, as part of its distinguished Études sur la Judaïsme Mediévale. In addition, he is the author of dozens of articles that have appeared in popular publications.

Pilot Gabriel Wall is was born and raised in Sydney, Australia, he has always had a passion for aviation. Despite not finishing high school, he dedicated himself to hard work and determination to achieve his dreams. In his 20s, he worked in information technology sales, allowing him to save up enough to start flying lessons—a lifelong aspiration he’d held since childhood. He first flew solo at the age of 16 in 2002, even before he could drive. However, due to financial limitations, his progress was temporarily paused. It wasn’t until 2013 that he completed his commercial license, and by 2016, he secured his first job as a flight instructor.

In 2019, he moved to the United States, where he began his career with a regional airline, progressing to the role of captain in 2021. In 2022, he joined Frontier Airlines as a first officer and recently upgraded to captain in September this year. His journey is a testament to resilience and the belief that the path to one’s goals is as significant as the destination itself. His experiences echo those of many in the field, as he finds inspiration in the diverse backgrounds of his fellow aviators, some of whom have transitioned from careers as police officers, paramedics, and business owners. His story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of a lifelong dream.

Tracey Cutler is the founder and owner of The Stage. Tracey has been a professional dancer on Broadway, a choreographer, and an innovator in the fitness industry for over 20 years. Classically trained at the School of American Ballet in New York City and taught by renowned choreographers Mia Michaels and Joe Lanteri, she has enjoyed a successful career in the dance and theater industry.

As a gifted performer, Tracey earned leading roles in The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Camelot, and A Chorus Line, in addition to performing as a Knicks City Dancer, being featured in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and much more. Tracey has also spent many years as a dance and fitness instructor, leading professional level classes at the prestigious Reebok Sports Club New York and Club Sport in Las Vegas, and is the former owner of Project Dance in California, a performing arts program that brought music, dance, and theater to the public school system. Tracey‘s choreography has been featured in several musicals, including The Drowsy Chaperone, Love 2 Dance, Thunder From Down Under and The Beatles Love.

Currently, Tracey competes in world renowned Ballroom competitions sponsored by the NDCA, and has won multiple awards for her excellence in American Rhythm and International Latin. Tracey has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Education degree. She is certified by the American Council on Exercise ACE, ZUMBA, SH’BAM, TKB, LaBlast and CPR.

Josh has almost 20 years’ experience working in Australia, London and currently based in the US. He has worked across a broad range of industries including finance, manufacturing, gaming and more. He has recently started his new role as the Senior Director of Product Management for a Gaming company in Las Vegas.

Having started in Customer Service answering customer support calls, Josh has worked his way up through project management, IT, Operations and Product Management to get to his current role. There have been a lot of learnings on the way for him around leadership, people management, time management, strategy, prioritization, problem solving and much more. 

Josh is based on Las Vegas and loves to bake, and enjoys cars, flying and gaming. 

Ulysses "Uly Monster" Diaz is a professional boxer, MMA fighter, and bare-knuckle warrior who defied the odds to become a record-breaking athlete. Known for holding the world record for the fastest knockout in combat sports history—an astonishing three seconds—Uly’s journey is not just about power in the ring but about resilience in life.

His path to success was anything but conventional. In his younger years, Uly found himself caught in a cycle of trouble, often fighting on the streets and landing in and out of prison. The very thing that once led him down a destructive path—his ability to fight—ultimately became the key to his redemption. At an age when most fighters are retiring, Uly laced up his gloves for the first time professionally at 35, proving that it’s never too late to change your life’s trajectory.

Fighting didn’t just give Uly a career—it saved his life. It became a vehicle for discipline, self-respect, and purpose. Instead of being defined by his past, he used it as fuel to build a future. Today, he stands as a testament to the power of second chances, proving that no matter where you come from, you have the power to write your own comeback story.

Tawni Nguyen didn’t follow the traditional path to success—she built it from the ground up, one reinvention at a time. As a first-generation entrepreneur, investor, and business strategist, she grew up working in restaurant kitchens, watching her immigrant family rebuild from nothing. That same resourcefulness led her from a biochem college dropout to a human communications college educator, proving that real-world experience, soft skills, and adaptability will take you further
than any classroom ever could. She learned business in the trenches—behind the bar, running events, and leading private acquisitions. Now, as Managing Partner of Evergreen Home Services, she helps business owners scale, optimize, and exit—without losing their legacy (or their soul in the process).

She’s also the creator of The Tawni Nguyen Show, where she challenges conventional thinking about success, and co-founder of Pursue Vegas, a platform amplifying community leaders, risk-takers, and visionaries shaping the future of business. In a world obsessed with automation and quick wins, Tawni believes business will always be human at its core—built on trust, connection, and the ability to lead with both strategy and heart. She believes the best way to build leaders is by helping them recognize the power they’ve had all along. Tawni’s proudest achievement is her sobriety and unplugging from social media—choosing to play full out, fully present, and fully aligned.  To her, success means nothing if you don’t pass it on—reach one, teach one, and create a ripple that outlives you.

Rukmini Callimachi is a journalist known for her in-depth reporting on terrorism and international conflicts. Born in Bucharest, Romania, she and her family fled the country when she was five years old, seeking refuge in Switzerland before immigrating to the United States. She grew up in Ojai, California, and pursued higher education at Dartmouth College and the University of Oxford.

Callimachi began her journalism career covering local news in Illinois before joining the Associated Press, where she reported on various issues across West Africa. In 2014, she joined The New York Times as a foreign correspondent, focusing on terrorist organizations like ISIS and al-Qaeda. Her work often involved analyzing documents left behind by these groups, providing insights into their operations. ​

Throughout her career, Callimachi has been recognized as a Pulitzer Prize finalist multiple times and has received awards such as the George Polk Award and the Michael Kelly Award. Her dedication to uncovering the complexities of global terrorism has made her a significant figure in international journalism.

Merideth Scott Lynn is an accomplished American actress, producer, and director with a dynamic career in film, television, and education. She is best known for her role as the sharp-witted Anne Milbauer on NBC’s long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives (2012–2017), where her memorable performances made her a fan favorite.

Lynn’s on-screen journey began with appearances in the final two episodes of the beloved sitcom The Facts of Life, and since then, she has amassed over 60 film and television credits. Her career spans decades of work in both comedic and dramatic roles, showcasing her range and dedication to the craft of storytelling.

In addition to her work in entertainment, Merideth Scott Lynn is the founder and CEO of WRiTE BRAiN BOOKS, a nationally recognized educational publishing company that empowers children and young adults to become authors of their own original stories. Through her company’s unique programs, Lynn has fused creativity, literacy, and confidence-building into classrooms and communities across the country.

A passionate advocate for youth voice and self-expression, Lynn continues to inspire both on screen and off, using her platform to impact lives through storytelling and education.

Dr. Ricardo Villalobos currently serves as the Chief Programs Officer for Workforce Connections, Southern Nevada’s Local Workforce Development Board, which oversees WIOA Title I Adult, Dislocated Workers, and Youth Programs. Dr. Villalobos received a Bachelor of Science degree from BIOLA University and a Master of Arts degree from the University of San Diego.

In 2017, he graduated with a Ph.D. in Workforce Development from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. He is a native of Las Vegas, Nevada, and a proud father of two sons, Ricardo A. Villalobos and Daniel P. Villalobos.

Coby Sherlock stands out as a dedicated mortgage loan officer, specializing in facilitating real estate purchases for both individuals and businesses. With a keen focus on ensuring a smooth closing process, he coordinates with various stakeholders including real estate agents, appraisers, and underwriters. Holding the role of Producing Branch Leader, Sherlock’s expertise not only helps borrowers achieve their homeownership dreams but also supports fellow Loan Officers in expanding their business.

Originally from New Orleans, Sherlock’s family moved to Nashville at the age of 14 after Hurricane Katrina. He pursued higher education at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), graduating with a bachelor's degree in political science and government studies.

In 2018, Sherlock moved to Las Vegas, where he met his wife, Jane Sherlock, who encouraged him to venture into the mortgage industry. His decision proved fruitful as he embarked on a successful career path as a mortgage loan officer with The Sherlock Team at CrossCountry Mortgage. Sherlock’s expertise spans across different regions, holding licenses in Arizona, California, Florida, Louisiana, Nevada, Montana, Tennessee, and Texas.

Sherlock and his wife are a powerhouse couple in the mortgage business who are passionately involved in the Southern Nevada community, with accolades including “Best Mortgage Lender” from Best of Las Vegas to “Outstanding Community Service” and “Member of the Year” awards from the Henderson Chamber of Commerce. They host Living Large Las Vegas, a podcast featuring community leaders contributing to the city's growth. Committed to industry excellence, is actively involved in the Henderson Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Henderson, Las Vegas Realtors and its Community Outreach Committee, the Women's Council of Realtors, and the Asian American Real Estate Association.

As a father of two, Sherlock is motivated by his family and the thrill of problem-solving to help people achieve homeownership. His aspirations include achieving top-tier results, elevating The Sherlock Team branch to become the highest producing national lender, and leaving behind a legendary legacy of community service.

Outside of the office, Sherlock dedicates his time to serving as Board Chair for Pinecrest Academy of Nevada, and as a board member for Youth Leadership Authority and the Henderson Community Foundation. He also co-chairs Leadership Henderson Elite with the Henderson

Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The Sherlocks are active volunteers with organizations such as Hope for the City, Positively Arts, and Prevent Child Trafficking Vegas, among many others.

CSMC President, Sandro Lanni, was searching for a better school for his children, unsatisfied with his options he decided to start a charter school.

He quickly realized that charter schools needed financial and business support that he did not have. He used his professional experience to launch an organization that provides expert back-office support services at affordable rates with input from education leaders he met along the way.

Kurtis Blow, born Kurtis Walker on August 9, 1959, is a legendary rapper, producer, and entrepreneur widely regarded as one of the founding figures of hip-hop music. As the first rapper to sign with a major record label, he played a crucial role in bringing hip-hop from the streets of New York to mainstream audiences. His influence spans decades, shaping the genre’s evolution and inspiring generations of artists.

Blow made history in 1979 when he became the first rapper to be signed by a major label, Mercury Records. That same year, he released the groundbreaking single “Christmas Rappin’”, which sold over 400,000 copies, proving that hip-hop was not just a passing fad but a cultural movement. However, it was his 1980 hit “The Breaks” that cemented his legacy. The song became the first certified gold record in hip-hop history, selling over half a million copies and establishing the commercial viability of rap music.

Throughout the 1980s, Kurtis Blow continued to release a series of influential albums, including Kurtis Blow (1980), Deuce (1981), and The Best Rapper on the Scene (1983). His music was known for its socially conscious lyrics, party anthems, and pioneering production techniques. In addition to his own career, Blow was instrumental in mentoring and producing for future legends such as Run-D.M.C. and The Fat Boys, further shaping the sound and direction of hip-hop.

Beyond music, Kurtis Blow has been an advocate for social change and youth empowerment. As an ordained minister, he has used his platform to spread messages of positivity, faith, and community engagement. He has also been involved in numerous initiatives promoting the preservation and recognition of hip-hop culture, including his role as the Chairman of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, which celebrates the genre’s rich history.

Accolades and Achievements:

• First rapper to sign with a major record label (Mercury Records, 1979).
• First rapper to earn a gold-certified single with “The Breaks” (1980).
• Released 15 albums, many of which contributed to the foundation of hip-hop.
• Produced for and mentored future hip-hop icons, including Run-D.M.C. and The Fat Boys.
• Pioneer of early hip-hop music videos, appearing on platforms such as MTV when rap was still emerging.
• Inducted into the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the genre’s growth and evolution.
• Founding Chairman of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, dedicated to preserving hip-hop’s history.
• Recognized by various hip-hop organizations and institutions for his lifelong contributions to the genre.
• Ordained minister and advocate for social justice and community programs.

Kurtis Blow’s legacy is one of innovation, perseverance, and groundbreaking achievements. As one of hip-hop’s true trailblazers, his impact on music and culture is undeniable, paving the way for future artists and ensuring that the art form he helped pioneer continues to thrive.

Eliot Sloan is an American musician best known as the charismatic lead singer of Blessid Union of Souls—a band that captured hearts in the 1990s with its blend of heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies. Sloan’s soulful voice and genuine songwriting helped define the band’s signature sound on hits like “I Believe” and “Hey Leonardo (She Likes Me for Me),” resonating with fans around the globe.

Before his breakthrough in the music scene, Sloan honed his craft through years of performing and writing songs that speak to real-life emotions and experiences. His work with Blessid Union of Souls not only established him as a dynamic frontman but also showcased his ability to connect with audiences on a deep, personal level.

Beyond his role in the band, Eliot Sloan has remained committed to exploring new creative avenues, engaging in various musical projects and collaborations over the years. His passion for music and dedication to authenticity continue to inspire listeners, proving that great art comes from the heart.