Women Amplified

Whether we have a good day or not depends partly on things we can’t control – perhaps we run into an unexpected crisis, or our colleagues seem unusually cranky. But behavioral science shows us that many things that seem “fixed” or “random” can be surprisingly strongly influenced by our own actions, once we understand just a little of how the brain works. Caroline Webb, economist and former partner at consulting powerhouse McKinsey, will demonstrate how tiny tweaks to our daily routines can transform our experience of what happens around us, the number of hours in the day, our level of intelligence, and even other people’s moods. She will teach us you to be at your best even under pressure, and equip you to handle common challenges such as co-worker conflicts and difficult deadlines. With this kind of powerful insight in your back pocket, you can change your “luck” and obtain more control over the quality of your days.

Millennial women are changing what it means to be powerful and successful in the world—for everyone. Forever. As former editor-in-chief of Seventeen magazine and now the voice behind the popular Badass Babes community, Ann Shoket has been a cheerleader for millennial women for more than 15 years.  She will share actionable guidance combined with personal stories from well-known, uber-successful millennials, plus intimate conversations with a cast of compelling young women and Shoket’s own stories from her quest for The Big Life.

When women work to break the glass ceiling, they are more likely to rely on hard work and obtaining outside qualifications than engaging in networking, negotiation and office politics, which can often seem unnecessary and a waste of time. But, recognizing the importance of these strategies can be the first step in advancing your career and a lack of willingness to engage can negatively impact your success.

Making a decision to “push the boundaries,” whether it is starting your own company, taking an innovative approach, making a job transition or joining a start-up can be overwhelming.  If you have dreamed of making a change, but not sure you are ready for the gamble, this panel of innovative women can help you navigate your fears and assess the risks involved. Learn the best practices of these seasoned entrepreneurs & executives, so that you are are prepared to push the limits and armed to achieve success.

By engaging men in advocating for more equal workplaces, we’re creating better leaders, stronger businesses, more fulfilling lives for both women and men as well as establishing a business imperative required at all levels from all managers. The stats are staggering, in terms of where women stand in the workplace even after all this time, and will need an all hands-on deck approach to make the changes necessary for equality. Yet, while progress is slow, it is critical to understand that advancements are being made and this forward movement is not being solely spearheaded by women. This session will bring together top female and male executives to share their firsthand experiences and contributions for achieving gender equity within their organizations.

The best thing about life on your own terms? There is no one clear-cut course of action. But, how do you create the life you want when you’re not even sure you know what that looks like or how to get it?  Welcome to the Big Life—it’s not only within your reach; you get to write the rules. Led by Ann Shoket, former editor-in-chief of Seventeen magazine, this session offers insights to help you tap your ambition AND honor your dreams at the same time. This insightful session will explore what goes through your head when you fall down or hit a bump, and how that—not talent or luck—makes all the difference in creating your Big Life.

Calling all seekers, dreamers and people in search of a different path! If you feel that you have yet to be all that you could be or were meant to be, this session is for you. In 30 minutes, Emily Esfahani Smith, author of The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters, shares her strategies for leading a fulfilling life, according to her research grounded in positive psychology: cultivating connections to others, identifying and working toward a purpose, telling stories about your place in the world and seeking out mystery. You’ll come away feeling enlightened, hopeful and recharged.

Americans feel less connected and more divided than ever before. Electronic devices are partly to blame, but the erosion of our conversational skills lies with each of us. The only way forward is to start talking to each other, says Celeste Headlee, TV and radio show host and author of We Need to Talk: How to Have Better Conversations (out in September). In 30 minutes, Headlee discusses her simple strategies for having satisfying conversations online and in person, at home and at work.

The team goes with your idea. Your boss praises you. And all your meetings end early. Having things go your way is more within your power than you think, says former McKinsey partner Caroline Webb. In 30 minutes, she will translate cutting-edge science and teach you the tiny tweaks to your daily routine that will improve your “luck.” Step by step, Webb will share • how to set better priorities • ace every interaction • strengthen your personal impact • boost your energy and enjoyment • and more.

Led by Flywheel Sports CEO Sarah Robb O’Hagan, this session will inspire and educate you on ways to tap your full potential. In 30 minutes, Robb O’Hagan, author of Extreme You, will walk you through how to • push yourself to be more open to new experiences so you can discover where you do and don’t shine • ignite your personal drive • get out of line to leapfrog your performance • and deal with failure and pain training on your road to epic success—all so you can, as her book says, step up, stand out and kick ass at work and in life.