Two keynotes, one throughline: the connection and community that make this work sustainable. Meet the voices setting the tone in New Brunswick.
Our keynotes bookend the conversation and carry the theme all the way through — the surprising power of connection, and the boundaries that let real relationships take root. Come ready to listen, to practice, and to leave with something you can use.
Every human interaction, no matter how brief, holds the potential to change your life. With our communities already full of unique individuals and valuable perspectives, sometimes this change comes from a simple conversation — getting to know each other on a deeper level. This keynote blends storytelling with practice. You'll learn what's possible, from fresh outlooks to new opportunities, when you become more intentional about connection. You'll also learn and implement the FRIEND framework — a practical blueprint for creating authentic connection — through 1:1 breakouts with fellow attendees. Afterwards, you'll feel a renewed optimism and curiosity in those around you, from the conference to your congregations and beyond.
About Rob Rob Lawless is a human-connection advocate known for his mission to meet 10,000 strangers for one hour each. He began his journey in 2015 and has since met 7,400+ people from 90+ countries, and has been featured by media including The TODAY Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and On Air with Ryan Seacrest. Drawing from these experiences, Rob delivers dynamic keynotes for organizations like FOX Sports, KPMG, and SHRM, equipping leaders with his FRIEND Framework — a practical blueprint for building authentic, transformative relationships. Rob believes every interaction holds the potential to change your life — potential you can begin capturing today.
We're often told that strong relationships require open doors and endless availability. But this highly engaging keynote reveals why our most meaningful connections thrive within clear boundaries. Drawing on original research and stunning photography from all seven continents, this session demonstrates how the right constraints strengthen trust, deepen friendships, and build authentic community. You'll leave with practical strategies to build stronger connections with your congregants and colleagues.
About Sheri · Sheri Jacobs is a leadership and innovation keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder and CEO of Avenue M Group, a research and strategy firm that has partnered with more than 300 organizations and surveyed hundreds of thousands of people. She is the author of several bestselling books, including The Unexpected Power of Boundaries, The Art of Membership, and Pivot Point, and an award-winning wildlife photographer whose work spans some of the most remote corners of the world. Blending original research with vivid storytelling, Sheri helps leaders rethink constraints, take smarter risks, and build cultures where trust and creativity thrive.
Four days of practical learning, meaningful connection, and the professional friendship that makes the work sustainable.
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