This fall, I have the privilege of stepping on stage at two powerful conferences—both of which are opening their doors to the public for the very first time. For me, conferences aren’t just about filling a seat in a ballroom. They’re about learning with intention, connecting with the right people, and, most importantly, stepping into opportunities that stretch you as a leader.
Fireproof Conference – Detroit, MI (September 11–12)
First up is the Fireproof Conference in Detroit, hosted by the Fireproof Performance team. This event is designed specifically for law firm owners and leaders who want to transform their firms into businesses that thrive without burning out the people running them.
I’ll be speaking on “Culture That Delivers Results”—a topic close to my heart and foundational to everything we’ve built at Keller Swan. Building a culture that sustains growth, empowers your team, and drives results doesn’t happen by accident—it happens by design.
👉 Learn more about the Fireproof Conference here.
CX Summit – Charleston, SC (September 25–26)
Later this month, I’ll be heading to Charleston for the CX Summit, hosted by Case Status. This summit is all about elevating the client experience in law firms and beyond.
I’ll be presenting on:
- “Voice AI in Action: Scaling Personalization Without Losing Trust” – exploring how technology can enhance, not replace, the human connection.
- I’ll also moderate a panel on “Agentic Workflow: Superpowering Your Best Staff Members with AI”, diving into how AI tools can help law firm teams operate at their absolute best.
👉 Check out the CX Summit agenda here.
Why Conferences Matter—But Only If You’re Intentional
Here’s the truth: not all conferences are created equal. Some are worth every dollar and every hour away from your business. Others? They can be a distraction. That’s why I believe you have to be intentional with your time.
Ask yourself:
- Will this event give me practical strategies I can implement?
- Will it connect me with peers who challenge me to think bigger?
- Does it align with where I’m trying to grow—personally and professionally?
When you approach conferences with that mindset, they stop being “just another trip” and start becoming accelerators for your business and your leadership.
Don’t Wait to Be Asked
As firm leaders, CEOs, and entrepreneurs, too often we sit back and wait to be invited into the room. But if you sit around waiting to be asked, it may never happen.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is: if there’s something you want—ask for it. Whether that’s a seat at the table, a chance to speak at a conference, or an opportunity to share your expertise—you can’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Handling Stage Nerves: A Lesson from Nick Saban
I’ll share a piece of advice from Nick Saban that stuck with me: If you get nervous on stage, it’s because you’re worried about what others think of you.
That hit me hard. Public speaking isn’t about you—it’s about the people in the room and the value you’re there to deliver. When you reframe it that way, the nerves fade, and purpose takes over.
The Crisp Summit Changed Everything for Me
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the Crisp Summit (coming up again November 12–13 in Atlanta). Attending my first Crisp Summit quite literally changed the trajectory of my business. It gave me the clarity, vision, and inspiration I needed to transform Keller Swan into the firm it is today.
Every leader should experience at least one event that shakes up how they see themselves and their business. For me, the Crisp Summit was that catalyst.
Full Circle: Hitting My 2025 Goal
At the start of this year, I set a goal: complete four public speaking engagements in 2025. With these upcoming conferences, I’m proud to say I’ve checked that box.
But more than the checkmark, what I’ve gained from these experiences is priceless—confidence, clarity, and the ability to impact others on a bigger stage.
Final Thought
Attending conferences can be transformational if you choose them wisely, show up with intention, and don’t shy away from stepping on stage. Leadership isn’t just about running your business—it’s about sharing your light so others can see what’s possible.
So whether you’re sitting in the audience this fall or speaking on stage, I encourage you: be bold, be intentional, and don’t wait for permission.
