Attendees will learn from industry professionals on leadership, entrepreneurship, wellness, business technology, gaining access to capital, and more.

You will have the option to join three workshops on a first come, first serve basis.

Sessions begin at 9:30am(A), 11:00am(B), and 2:30pm(C).

SESSION A

9:30am – 10:20am 

Shontay Smith  |  Director CDFI and Member Business Services at Valley Strong Credit Union

Business Owner Readiness for Access to Capital 

This session is for business owners that are eager to grow their business and know that they will need to access capital to grow their businessIn this course we will discuss the fundamental steps that institutions will look for when applying for lending so that business owners can start creating changes in their financial management to be access to capital ready.  

Dianne Callahan  |  Founder of Catalyst Coaching and Consulting

Unconditional Self-Confidence Makes the Impossible Possible 

We fall in love with the idea of other people loving us, thinking we need their approval to be worthy and valuable. What if instead we fell in love with ourselves and returned to the confident and magnificent person we were born to be?

This workshop is for you if:

  • You want to live in joy without your confidence being held hostage by the opinions of others
  • You want to silence the negative voice in your head
  • You look at other confident people and say “I wish that were me” 
Dr. Anila Chadha |  Dignity Health Medical Group

The Body Clock: How to Maintain a Healthy Weight through the Decades

Did you know that women gain the most weight in their 20’s and can put on another 12 pounds every decade after? That’s almost 70 pounds by the time you hit retirement! You can’t stop the clock, but when it comes to weight management, time can be on your side. Join Obesity Medicine Specialist, Dr. Anila Chadha with Dignity Health Medical Group – Bakersfield for a look at how women’s bodies change through the decades and why those changes can lead to dangerous obesity issues as we get older. Dr. Chadha will share tips for creating healthy habits in your 20’s and 30’s and discuss medical weight loss treatment options for women experiencing perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. 

    Irene Wilkins  |  The Business Solutionist  |  Irene Wilkins, LLC

    The Heart of Business: How to Use Emotional Intelligence and Client Centricity to Build a Thriving Business

    In today’s competitive business world, it is more important than ever to be able to connect with your clients on a deeper level. Emotional intelligence (EQ) and client centricity are the keys to building a thriving business. In this workshop, you will learn how to use EQ and client centricity to: 

    • Build stronger relationships with your clients
    • Increase loyalty and reduce turnover
    • Achieve your business goals, no matter how impossible they may seem
    Marie A. Anthony  |  Clinical Director of Outpatient Services  |  GirlTrek Bakersfield Inc.

    Healthy mind! Healthy body! Healthy business! 

    A key ingredient to success is a healthy mindset and it resonates to the body. It is so vitally important that we strive to be whole mentally, emotionally and physically to have the fuel and stamina needed to transform your business to a higher level. Your overall health is a priority so you can make better sound decisions. As a two time stroke survivor, director of outpatient services, a nurse of 30 years and a city organizer for GirlTrek, I am a living witness that it is important to be intentional at keeping a healthy lifestyle.   

      Michele Wells  |  Transformation Strategist  |  Courageous Voice Academy, LLC

      Be B.O.L.D. – Dealing with Your Inner Dialogue! 

      Your inner dialogue has a great bearing on your professional and personal interactions. Inner dialogue is shaped by developmental phases in your life as well as impactful life experiences. You are the person that you speak to the most every day. Those words will affect your emotions positively or negatively. You must ascertain the foundation of your inner dialogue and implement strategies to change the narrative of what you are saying to yourself so that you show up as the best version of yourself.

        Crystal Meyer  |  Executive Director  |  Private Organization

        Tackling the Impossible: Family, Finance, Future

        As a woman in the business field, I’ll be sharing my experiences and insights on achieving a balanced life. During this workshop, you will discover how to navigate the challenges of family, finance, and the future in today’s society. Let’s debunk the myth that having it all is impossible. I’ll inspire you to prioritize self-care, establish a strong foundation of core values for your life, and remember what truly matters. Together, we’ll build a sustainable future and empower each other to thrive in both our personal and professional lives. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock your potential and live the life you truly desire. 

          Susan Saelee  |  Director of Operations  |  Blue Zones Project Bakersfield

          Finding Your Purpose

          Finding Your Purpose is an experiential process designed to explore purpose and how it is expressed, culminating in a draft of a purpose statement for individual participants. It is the launching of a journey to discover and live from a sense of purpose. Finding Your Purpose is an inside‐out discovery process. It provides a way for people to examine who they are, what their core gifts are, and help them begin to draft a purpose statement to live a more vital, engaged, and meaningful life.

            Christina Springstead  |  CEO & Founder  |  Springstead Solutions

            Demystifying Financial Statements: Empowerment Through Numbers

            In pivotal career moments, understanding financial language is transformative. Whether starting anew, transitioning, or climbing higher, join seasoned accountant, Christina, as she decodes financial statements. This workshop empowers attendees to navigate professional pathways with clarity and confidence, translating numbers into actionable insights, ensuring a foundation for success in any business endeavor. 

              SESSION B

              11:00am – 11:50am

              Erin Estelle  |  SVP Chief Marketing Officer  |  Valley Strong Credit Union

              Branding & Marketing: For any type of business and any size budget

              Don’t know where to start when it comes to marketing for your small business? I will break down strategic marketing plans for any sized budget and business model. In this workshop you will learn how to make your marketing budget work for your business needs:

              1. Easy and accessible tools to ensure your brand is consistent
              2. Where to start when it comes to marketing your business
              3. Marketing budget breakdown: How much do you really need to invest in marketing your business
              4. How to track your results to make sure you are getting the return on your marketing dollars
                Atieh Poushneh  |  Assistant Professor  |  Cal State University of Bakersfield

                Artificial Intelligence Personality

                Individuals interact with artificial intelligence (AI) on a daily basis. AI is revolutionizing consumers’ consumption culture and becoming a larger part of consumers’ social lives.  There are a variety of AI including Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, Amazon’s Echo, Google’s Home, and Apple’s Home. Such AI enables users to navigate, listen to music, send text messages, control smart home devices, make a phone call, order food, order an Uber ride or pizza, and so on. Human beings always associate and attribute humanlike characteristics to objects, brands, and technology. AI can demonstrate humanlike personalities including functional intelligence, sincerity, and creativity traits that can enhance people interaction with AI. It is unknown the extent to which AI can influence and be influenced by people. We demonstrate valuable information and practical guidance on how AI shapes people’s behavior. 

                  Whitnie Wiley  |  Coach/Consultant Professor  |  Shifting Into Action

                  Together We Thrive: Mastering Team Dynamics for Career and Business Success 

                  In today’s fast-paced world, the adage “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” holds profound truth. Far too often, we perceive our career journeys as solitary paths, reactive steps taken rather than proactive strides. Yet, whether you’re an entrepreneur charting new territory or a professional scaling the corporate ladder, the power of collective insight and collaboration cannot be underestimated. Dive into this transformative workshop to discover the game-changing potential of assembling and leveraging a strategic team. Learn to recognize and rally the right minds, forge synergistic collaborations, and meticulously craft a roadmap to elevate your career or business aspirations. Embark on this journey with us, and unlock the doors to unprecedented growth and success.

                    Artisa Mae Moten   |  MS LMFT  |  Awakened Consulting, Inc.

                    Key Barriers to Great Leadership: Leading Strong and Balanced

                    Uncover the formidable barriers that hinder effective leadership in our transformative workshop. Gain insights into how these barriers can impede your team’s unique qualities, disrupt harmony in personality dynamics, and create turbulence in the balance between strength and composure in your leadership journey. Discover how to conquer these personal obstacles, equipping yourself with the skills needed to lead confidently, thereby fostering significant business growth and leaving a profound, lasting impact. Increase leadership resilience, where you’ll learn to cultivate a thriving mindset, moving beyond survival mode.

                      JJ Jank   |  Chief Brain Hacker/CEO  |  Desert Diva, LLC

                      Disrupt Distractions to Boost Productivity

                      Designed for women professionals, this presentation provides actionable information to help attendees understand the power of the human brain to accomplish more without working harder or for longer hours, and how to avoid distractions that otherwise get in the way of achieving goals. The principles are based on the neuroscience of how the human brain works. Participants will learn the distinction between productivity and “busy-ness” and understand some of the myths about the brain that get in the way of business teams working well together.

                        Dr. Danette Buie, Ed.D.   |  CEO & Founder |  Thrive Limitlessly, LLC

                        Unlock Your Potential: Building Satisfying Careers and Self-Advocacy

                        Empowers attendees to shape fulfilling professional journeys. Learn strategies for identifying and pursuing career paths that align with personal values and aspirations. Discover the art of self-advocacy, gaining the confidence and skills to articulate your worth, needs, and goals. This workshop equips individuals to take charge of their careers, fostering a culture of fulfillment and growth. Elevate your professional trajectory by attending this transformative session. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to invest in your future success. 

                          Rubi Zetino   | Owner / Brand Director |  Charizma Co.

                          The Power of a Personal Brand: Business is Personal

                          In a world defined by authenticity and connection, “The Power of a Personal Brand: Business is Personal” reveals the path to a brand you’re proud to represent. Join this empowering discussion on aligning your authentic self with your business for transformative growth. Explore the significance of core values, personal interests, and your unique attributes. Learn to embrace your charisma and the profound impact of sharing it with the world. Elevate not only your business but also your life. Ignite your potential and go on a journey of personal and professional fulfillment.

                            Joyce Talag    | Life and Leadership Coach |  Joyful Transformations, LLC

                            Show Up, Speak Up & Lift Others Up: Elevate Your Leadership Presence as a Woman

                            As a career-focused woman, aspiring for higher leadership roles may be daunting because of its trade offs. This workshop will help you project executive presence, lead with impact, and achieve results while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. You will walk away from this session with practical tools and insights equipping you to embrace your unique leadership superpowers, visually express your personal brand, and nurture vital professional and personal relationships to help you become a more effective, joyful leader, and create a lasting impact.

                              Panel – Shontay Smith, Valley Strong CDFI Director  |  NaTesha “T” Johnson, Bakersfield College Launchpad  |  Pamela Mostert, Access Plus Capital VP of Lending

                              Show Me the Money – Access to Capital

                              Join our “Show Me the Money – Access to Capital” workshop where female entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights on asking for the right amount – and not undervaluing yourself. This panel of industry experts will guide you in preparing and planning to access capital effectively. Learn the art of working with banks and various lending sources, and discover the process of applying for the City Grant, ranging from $5,000 to $40,000. Don’t miss this opportunity to empower your financial journey!

                                SESSION C

                                2:30pm- 3:20pm

                                Erin Tenter  |  Director of Marketing & Communications  |  Bolthouse Properties

                                Demystifying the Lease Process: What to expect when transitioning your business to a physical location

                                Leasing a location for your business can feel like a mysterious and daunting task, but it doesn’t have to. In this session, I will unravel the mystery and provide the tools necessary to navigate the leasing process smoothly. You will leave equipped with a better understanding of key terms, landlord expectations, and potential obstacles to anticipate. My ultimate objective is to ensure you are better prepared as you journey towards finding the perfect “home” for your business. 

                                  Janae Peters  |  Digital Content Strategist  |  J. Peters Agency

                                  Elevate Your Content Game: The CONTENT Method for Bulk Content Creation

                                  Learn a systematic approach to efficiently produce a large volume of high-quality content. The CONTENT Method includes seven key steps, from generating ideas and planning to tailoring content for the audience, streamlining production, nurturing creations, and tracking results. By applying this method, you can boost brand visibility and engagement while maintaining content quality and measuring success.

                                    Chamber Panel with Janelle Capra  | CEO Greater Bakersfield Chamber

                                    Chambers Unite! How to Use Membership to Better Your Business

                                    Have you ever wondered how to create meaningful connections, impactful collaborations and champions for your business, brand or cause? Then, this interactive panel workshop is for you! Join us for an open dialogue among top CEO’s, executives and community leaders who leverage Chamber membership to cultivate opportunities in Bakersfield and beyond!

                                     You will leave this workshop with tangible, best practices on how to network your network and make new lasting connections to make the impossible possible.

                                      Jana Mowrer   |  Owner/CEO/Dietitian  |  HealthWins with Jana

                                      Breaking Generational Ties of Diet Culture: How to Navigate Weight Body Image and Self-Esteem

                                      Teaching women how to navigate the conversation within themselves so that they may empower their own children around food, weight and body image without the lens of diet culture. In this breakout session, you will be given the language and tools to break the cycle of restrictive dieting practices which promote foods as “good” and “bad” and instead support you and your child in having a healthy relationship with food, weight and enhanced self-esteem. 

                                        Dianne Callahan  |  Founder of Catalyst Coaching and Consulting

                                        Unconditional Self-Confidence Makes the Impossible Possible 

                                        We fall in love with the idea of other people loving us, thinking we need their approval to be worthy and valuable. What if instead we fell in love with ourselves and returned to the confident and magnificent person we were born to be?

                                        This workshop is for you if:

                                        • You want to live in joy without your confidence being held hostage by the opinions of others
                                        • You want to silence the negative voice in your head
                                        • You look at other confident people and say “I wish that were me” 
                                        Linda Mohammad  |  Certified Life Coach, Engineer and Leader  |  The Bucket List Traveler

                                        How to Live Your Bucket List Life Now 

                                        Feeling burnout and catching yourself quiet quitting? Wanting more from your life or career but feeling stuck where you’re at? Losing balance and boundaries as you recover from the pandemic life? Wondering when is the right time to make changes and where to start? Now is the time to prioritize you. Your vision, your potential, and your plan of actions. In this workshop, you’ll learn the five steps method to tap into your purpose and passion so you can live your bucket list life now.

                                          Susana Vasquez  |  Kern County Employers’ Training Resource

                                          Networking Your Way to the Possible

                                          This workshop will be an introduction to the Do’s & Don’ts of finding career opportunities through the three P’s of networking: Preparation, Presentation, & Professional Relationship Building. Learn how to build a network of professional friends by being open, honest, and genuinely engaged in their causes and by being more interested in their needs than your own.

                                            Panel – Dr. Gurgit Singh, Dr. Leopoldo Puga, Dr. Rasham Sandhu  |  Adventist Health

                                            Every Beat Counts | Your Heart Matters

                                            With an increase of awareness over the past decades, it comes as no surprise that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S.

                                             Women are more prone to develop cardiovascular disease in their lifetime and learning the signs and symptoms early on can make a world of a difference! Join our interactive panel discussion of local Cardiology experts as we take a journey of heart health and discuss how to live your best life for those you love.