Michelle Petties is a TEDx speaker, Food Story coach, and author of the award-winning, Amazon best-selling memoir, Leaving Large – The Stories of a Food Addict. For years, Michelle was a top performer for the most influential brands in media, including Radio One and Disney/ABC. Finally, the stressful and competitive media advertising space took a toll on her mental and physical health. After gaining and losing over 700 pounds, she finally discovered the “secret” to quieting the battle between her mind, body, and hunger – her “story.” Michelle’s memoir, a category winner in The 2022 Memoir Prize for Books, explores the deep emotional and psychological connections to food and how these "food stories" shape our eating behaviors and weight management struggles. Michelle developed a Prescriptive Writing Process to make peace with her mind, body, and food. Her approach emphasizes that the battle with weight isn't just about food but about the stories and emotions behind why we eat. By understanding and rewriting these narratives, individuals can achieve lasting transformation. She conducts healing- through-reading-writing-and-storytelling workshops where she teaches others how to find their food and personal truths. She offers various services, including workshops, retreats, and speaking engagements to show others how to uncover their food stories and transform how they manage their relationship with themselves, gain mastery over food, and uplevel performance. She speaks to organizations, large and small, sharing her insights and stories of hope, healing, triumph, and transformation. Her latest ebook, Mind Over Meals: 7 Secrets to Rewire Your Brain for Healthy Eating and High Performance, reveals her core principles for losing weight and keeping it off for good.

Meet Felicia Shanken Hello, my name is Felicia Shanken CEO/Founder of the Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection, LLC and PWNC Foundation Inc 501(c)(3) We are not just a business; we are a community. Felicia Shanken is a highly accomplished Women’s Strategist and Success Builder who has made significant contributions to the world of business. Her impressive track record speaks for itself. Felicia has been recognized by numerous publications and organizations for her outstanding work. For instance, “Fun Times Magazine” featured her in its March/April 2020 edition as part of the “2020 Philadelphia Who’s Who Black Women of Influence.” Moreover, “International Brainz Magazine” recognized her as an influential leader and business owner for small businesses in December 2020. In May 2021, she was named one of the “Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business” by “VIP Global Magazine.” “USA Today Black History Month Special Edition Magazine” acknowledged her for being a black-owned business in February 2022. Additionally, in the same month, “Alignable” named her the Local Business Person of the Year for Lower North Philadelphia. She is also a Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women: Black in Business Graduated Alumni, May 2023. Lastly, her work was recognized in the Philadelphia Inquirer’s April 2023 write-up on Women-Owned Businesses in Philadelphia, and The Global Institute for Human Excellence June 2023, Write up “The Women Success Builder.” A recipient of the Premier Dream Chasers Award presented by Acereel Studio, LLC, January 2024. Named again by “Alignable” in March 2024 for Local Business Person of the Year for Gilbertsville. Featured in “Top 100 Magazine for Innovators and Entrepreneurs” , March 2025 and recently recipient of the, “Trailblazer Award”, presented by the National Association of Women Business Owner (NAWBO) March 2025 . Medical Professional, before becoming a solo entrepreneur full-time 7 1/2 years ago. Associate’s Degree in Nursing from Gwynedd Mercy University. Worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Philadelphia for 9 1/2 years before deciding to pursue Entrepreneurship full-time. Raised in Queens, New York, moved to Philadelphia over 30 years ago where I met my husband, Paul a native Philadelphian. Recently moved to Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. We are avid travelers and love being at the beach. We are also parents to a 14-year-old rescued pit-bull mix named Maximus. ​

Rev. Christine Vaughan Davies is a dynamic speaker, writer, educator and spiritual practioner. She serves as an engaging pastoral educator, sharing insights and wisdom on important topics such as spirituality, listening, emotional intelligence, chaplaincy, grief and loss, self-care, and resiliency. Christine’s speaking and facillitation skills benefit organizations seeking keynotes, workshops or retreats. Additionally, she offers individual spiritual direction and consultation sessions, where she provides deep listening and compassionate presence. Christine is an ordained Presbyterian Minister, a Certified Educator with the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education, a Seminary Professor and a trained Spiritual Director. She earned her Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University. With over two decades of experience as a hospital chaplain, pastoral educator, cognitive behavioral therapist and healthcare administrator, Christine brings a wealth of real-world knowledge to her work. She lives with her family on a small farm in New Jersey and spends her time chasing chickens and chauffeuring her school-aged children to all their activities. Fun Facts: Christine has competed in many triathalons. She loves swimming and biking and just tries to survive the running portions. Christine is a beekeeper, who occasionally harvests honey from her hives unless her foe, the bear beats her to it. In addition to other formal rituals (which she is happy to help you cultivate), she believes drinking coffee and eating chocolate count as spiritual practices!

Olivier Mankondo is a speaker, author, and weight loss and wellness coach with a passion for helping people achieve optimal health. Olivier has been able to lose 35Kgs(5 ½ stone or 77 Lbs) in 9 months, reverse all his chronic diseases, and slow down quite dramatically his ageing process after adopting a plant-based nutrition. Since 2016, Olivier has not been sick a day and has since helped hundreds of people create an amazing level of health and vitality through his talk and his health coaching. He has completed the training program for weight loss coaching accredited by the International Association of Therapists. He is also the creator of the”3-Step Weight Loss & Wellness program” and the author of the book: “The Plant-based Nutrition: How It’s Going to Change Your Life” which has been translated into French as well. On a side note, Olivier can speak 4 languages including French.

Jesseca Tighe is a Career, Life, and Leadership Coach with a rich background in psychology and executive management. With a Ph.D. in Psychology and over 20 years of experience as an executive in healthcare and mental health, Jesseca has dedicated her career to empowering professionals and leaders who feel frustrated, stuck, or are seeking to elevate their leadership skills.

Empowering Communities Through Financial Expertise and Youth Mentorship Born in 1982 to Karen and Kenneth Harmon in North Philadelphia, Bydeia S. Harmon has dedicated his life to community upliftment through financial consulting and youth mentorship. A proud alumnus of Northeast High School's Magnet Program (Class of 1999), Bydeia pursued higher education at Delaware State University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and Banking in 2003. Professional Journey Bydeia's career commenced in 2004 with Bank of America in Center City Philadelphia, where he collaborated with local business owners and community leaders. His expertise expanded through roles as a mortgage loan officer at Bank of America and management positions at Wells Fargo and Santander Bank in Delaware. Currently, he leads his own financial consulting firm in the Philadelphia area, providing tailored financial solutions to clients and businesses. Community Engagement Beyond his professional endeavors, Bydeia is deeply committed to youth development. He coaches basketball at Mastery North Charter School in Germantown and mentors young athletes through Team Final/BBA on the national AAU circuit, serving the Pennsylvania and New Jersey regions. His dedication to service and entrepreneurship continues to inspire and effect positive change within his community. #ImpactfulBlack #BydeiaHarmon #FinancialConsulting #YouthMentorship #CommunityLeadership #BlackExcellence

COACH – Expertise: Leadership, Purpose & Professional Development Michelle Snow, is the Platinum Connect & Vision to Performance Coach formerly known as “Career Coach on Duty”. Michelle is a Philanthropist, Award Winning Coach, and the President & Executive Consultant of the multiple companies and the new non-profit “Grow Together Snow Foundation”. Michelle originally piloted as an entrepreneur in the year 2010. At the time, the primary concept was slated only for young adult mentoring in Professional & Leadership Development. After launching, the unthinkable ignited. Suddenly, Michelle found herself fighting for her life as she was incapacitated with the shocking diagnosis of Sarcoidosis. Her walking and standing ability was minimal. Public speaking was only a distant memory. The disease caused unbearable pain. Doctors told her that she would “be fine” in 15 or 20 years; by then the disease could reverse. Michelle spent much time in prayer. She held on to optimism and hope…in six months, Michelle Recovered! Today, Michelle and her companies continue to stretch its borders. She’s an expert in Leadership & Professional Development for educational institutions, corporations, businesses and community. Michelle is recognized by FORBES, Philadelphia City Council, Philadelphia Department of Commerce. She’s endorsed by SCOOP USA and Funtimes Magazine. She’s recognized by The Philadelphia Tribune, Philadelphia Magazine, and more.Michelle’s passion is best expressed in her personal mantra, “Grow Together”. Your #BestConnect2020 We Share and Recommend Professional Solutions Feel free to Contact Us today at (215) 360-3722 for any additional information or to see how we can serve you!

Dr. Joy Morgan is an international motivational speaker who empowers and inspires people to achieve greatness in their businesses, leadership, and personal life. She graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, has a Masters Degree in Education Administration from Rutgers University, and an earned doctoral degree in Strategic Leadership from Regent University. Dr. Morgan has been featured on television and radio shows, and has shared her motivational messages in schools, Fortune 500 companies and non-profit organizations across the continental United States, St. Thomas, Bermuda, Canada, Qatar, and the U.K. Through Joy Morgan Motivates, she coaches individuals in 1) finding their voice and transforming them into a powerful public speaker, 2) writing, publishing and selling their books, 3) and turning their purpose and passion into a profitable business. Dr. Joy is the author of several books including Write It. Sell it. Tell it., How to Transform Your Message into a Profitable Book, Speaking Platform, and Coaching Business and Roadmap to Destiny, A 21-Day Devotional for those on the Pathway to Purpose.

www.joymorganmotivates.com

Dr. Esther Lawrence brings over two decades of professional experience in higher education, blending her academic expertise with a deep commitment to advocacy and empowerment. Born in Brooklyn and raised in the Caribbean, Dr. Lawrence proudly represents the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, crediting her Kittitian heritage and upbringing for shaping her personal values and professional success. As a first-generation college graduate, Dr. Lawrence holds a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership, a Master of Arts in Media Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Writing Arts. A passionate scholar-practitioner and qualitative researcher, her work amplifies the voices and experiences of individuals within the Black diaspora in the U.S. Her research interests include organizational culture, intersectionality, critical race theory (CRT), and the experiences of African-descendant immigrants. Dr. Lawrence is devoted to fostering environments of belonging and reflection, creating safe spaces to address the challenges faced by underrepresented groups. She is the co-founder of The Lawrence Collective, LLC, an educational consulting firm she established with her husband, Scott. The firm specializes in mindful leadership, cultural competence, and social and emotional intelligence, offering tailored solutions for organizations and communities. The Lawrence Collective Mission: Cultivating safe spaces to amplify profound narratives and solutions. Vision: To lead as a premier consulting firm that empowers individuals among the Black diaspora to achieve confidence and self-actualization by validating their lived experiences in predominantly white spaces. Dr. Lawrence and her team offer: Open dialogues and workshops focusing on cultural competence and inclusive excellence, fostering psychological safety and respect. Public speaking and keynote engagements to expand perspectives on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Managerial workshops to help leaders thrive within their organizational cultures. Publications and written works centered on the stories of the Black diaspora and immigrant experiences. Notary public services and partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits to enhance community engagement. Dr. Lawrence also serves as an Assistant Dean in higher education, balancing her professional commitments with her role as a proud mother to two teenagers. Her current passion projects include working on publications related to Afro-Caribbean culture and the Black diaspora, and she is actively seeking speaking engagements to continue advancing these essential conversations.

Joseph Fuller is a Professor of Management Practice in General Management and Entrepreneurship. He founded and co-leads the school’s project, Managing the Future of Work, as well as the Harvard Project on the Workforce. He currently leads the FIELD Global Capstone course in the first year of the MBA program. FIELD Global Capstone is the school’s premier experiential learning course, in which more than 900 first year MBA students travel to fifteen countries around the world to work directly local companies on a product or service challenge. He formerly developed the Making Difficult Decisions course in the second year of the MBA program and headed required The Entrepreneurial Manager course.

Joe’s research probes the major forces shaping the future of work. He has written extensively on the "skills gap" and investigates the paradox that many employers have chronic difficulty filling jobs while millions of Americans remain unemployed, underemployed, or have left the workforce. His research on degree inflation—a phenomenon whereby companies impose a requirement that candidates hold a college degree to apply for positions that have not historically required post-secondary credentials—has been cited as a catalyst for the emergence of the skills-based hiring movement. Joe has written extensively on upward mobility for lower wage workers, including research on the effectiveness of community colleges and the opportunity to expand apprenticeships in the United States. He is a co-creator of the American Opportunity Index that ranks leading companies on the quality of the opportunities for upward mobility they provide workers without college degrees. His research on how employers’ policies shape the prospects of low wage workers achieving upward mobility, served as the basis for his article The High Cost of Neglecting Low Wage Workers that won the 2023 Warren Bennis Prize as the best article on leadership in the Harvard Business Review. He has published pioneering research on the business impact of employees’ caregiving obligations on employers.

In 2021, Joe co-founded the Harvard Project on Workforce with colleagues from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Harvard Graduate School of Education. The project focuses on issues related to upward mobility and takes a multi-disciplinary approach to understanding issues ranging from career navigation to skills acquisition. The project also sponsors a study group for students from across Harvard’s graduate schools.

 A 1981 graduate of the school, Joe was a founder and first employee of the global consulting firm, Monitor Group, now Monitor-Deloitte. He served as the Chief Executive Officer of its consulting operations until 2006 and remained a Senior Advisor to the firm until its acquisition by Deloitte in 2012. During his three decades in consulting, Fuller worked with senior executives and policymakers on a wide variety of issues related to corporate strategy and national competitiveness.

Joe has spoken at numerous management conferences and has written extensively. His work has appeared in Harvard Business Review, Sloan Management Review, CEO, and The Journal of Applied Corporate Finance magazines, as well as The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, The Washington Post, Politico, The Atlantic, The Hill, Axios, The International Herald Tribune, China Daily, India’s Business Standard, and Brazil’s EXAME. His research has been covered in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Economist. He has appeared on CNBC, NPR’s Morning Edition and On Point, PBS’s Marketplace and NBC’s Nightly News with Lester Holt, CBS’s Evening News with Nora O’Donnell and France 24’s Evening Report.  His white papers, Just Say No To Wall Street and What’s a Director to Do?, written in collaboration with the late Professor Michael Jensen are used in the curriculums of dozens of MBA programs worldwide.

Mr. Fuller is a magna cum laude graduate of Harvard College and a member of the Executive Committee of the Harvard College Fund, as well as a former member of Harvard Business School’s Board of Dean’s Advisors, and the boards of directors of PVH Corporation, Merrimac Industries and SM&A. He serves on the boards of Aera Technology and Helios Consulting. He is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Western Governors University. Joe is a Senior Visiting Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a Senior Fellow at the Burning Glass Institute.