Expert Sessions Available Now!

Maximize Your Summit with 1:1 Expert Sessions

The Maker City Summit 2024 is going further than ever this year, providing even more opportunities to dive deep into the knowledge and expertise of industry leaders through exclusive 1:1 Expert Sessions. Following the summit, attendees can book personalized consultations with a diverse group of experts to gain tailored insights and guidance on various topics. Here’s a sneak peek at the experts you can connect with and the valuable knowledge they bring:

Adrienne Webster | Business Set Up, Tax, Accounting and Bookkeeping

Adrienne Webster, a Knoxville native and University of Tennessee graduate, is the founder of AOW Tax & Accounting. With her firm focusing on the downtown community since 2008, Adrienne offers expertise in business setup, tax, accounting, and bookkeeping. Her sessions are perfect for makers looking to establish solid financial foundations for their businesses.

Jonathan Halley | Incorporating Video in Marketing Strategies

Jonathan Halley is a self-taught expert in production and web development, known for his problem-solving skills and creative solutions. His deep understanding of video marketing makes him an invaluable resource for makers looking to leverage video to enhance their marketing strategies. Jonathan’s sessions will guide you through the best practices for incorporating video into your promotional efforts.

Halee Sprinkle | Social Media Marketing

Halee Sprinkle is a marketing alchemist with a talent for transforming social media strategies. Her professional background and dedication to client success make her sessions ideal for makers seeking to elevate their social media presence. Halee’s guidance will help you develop effective and innovative social media campaigns that resonate with your audience.

Nikki Elliott | Tax & Accounting

Nikki Elliott, CPA and Partner at Elliott Advisory Group, brings over 19 years of experience in finance and accounting. Specializing in financial reporting, tax compliance, and consulting, Nikki’s sessions will provide invaluable insights for makers needing precise and strategic financial advice to drive their business success.

Nicole Riggs Broesch | Product Development

Nicole Riggs Broesch, founder of fern+daisy, combines her passion for ethical fashion and community upliftment. Her sessions will focus on product development, offering makers advice on creating sustainable and impactful products. Nicole’s experience in apparel design and ethical practices will guide you in developing products that align with your values and vision.

Rabbi Alon Ferency | Life Skills for Heretics

Rabbi Alon Ferency offers unconventional wisdom through his "Life Skills for Heretics" sessions. With a focus on creativity and spiritual growth, these sessions are designed to help makers navigate creative challenges and embrace innovation. Rabbi Ferency’s unique approach will empower you to infuse your work with profound meaning and authenticity.

Courtney DeLaura | General Marketing Foundations

Courtney DeLaura is a seasoned communications and marketing professional known for her strategic approach and wellness-centric methodology. Her sessions will cover foundational marketing strategies, product launch tactics, and digital marketing insights. Courtney’s expertise will help you build a robust marketing framework for your business.

Leslie Wylie Bateman | PR & Media Strategy with AI

Leslie Wylie Bateman, a media professional with over 20 years of experience, specializes in journalism, marketing, and PR. Her virtual sessions will explore PR and media strategies enhanced by AI. Leslie’s extensive experience and passion for helping entrepreneurs will guide you in amplifying your message and reaching wider audiences.

Emily Jenkins | Financial Planning for Business Owners

Emily Jenkins, an Associate Financial Advisor at Northwestern Mutual, is dedicated to empowering women through financial education. Her sessions will focus on financial planning for business owners, offering insights into investments, insurance, and retirement planning. Emily’s expertise will help you achieve financial independence and security.

Shawn Poynter | Product Photography

Shawn Poynter, a commercial and editorial photographer, brings his expertise in reportage, portraiture, and commercial photography to the summit. His sessions will provide makers with valuable tips and techniques for capturing high-quality product images that enhance their brand’s visual appeal.

Mel Mullins | Business Growth: Scaling & Hiring

Mel Mullins, owner of All Y’all, offers insights into scaling a business, hiring professional help, and understanding the realities of running a business. Her sessions will cover topics like e-commerce, wholesale versus retail, and the importance of charging enough for your products. Mel’s practical advice will help you navigate the complexities of business growth.

Frog Greishaw | Creating Sober Spaces via Collaboration and Networking

Frog Greishaw, with a diverse background in hospitality and design, specializes in creating engaging and sober spaces through collaboration and networking. Her sessions will focus on connecting talent with venues and crafting memorable events. Frog’s extensive experience in fashion show production will guide you in executing successful projects.

Gary Jackson | AI for Creatives

Gary Jackson collaborates with data scientists and engineers to apply AI and Machine Learning to creative fields. His sessions will cover generative AI, predictive analytics, and visualization techniques. Gary’s knowledge will help you harness the power of AI to enhance your creative projects.

Jess Curtis | Web Development & eCommerce Solutions

Jess Curtis, owner of J-Bird, offers over a decade of experience in digital marketing. Her sessions will focus on web development and eCommerce solutions, providing makers with the tools to build effective online platforms. Jess’s collaborative approach will help you create a strong digital presence.

Amanda Forsythe Fox | Copywriting for Small Businesses

Amanda Forsythe Fox, a freelance writer and marketing professional, specializes in creating compelling content for small businesses. Her sessions will offer insights into copywriting techniques that resonate with your audience and drive engagement. Amanda’s passion for community and psychology will enhance your content marketing efforts.

Melissa Kreis | Business Growth + Wholesaling

Melissa Kreis, founder of Tomboy, brings her experience in developing plant-based skincare products to the summit. Her sessions will cover business growth and wholesaling strategies, providing makers with practical advice on expanding their product lines. Melissa’s journey from serendipitous science to a thriving brand will inspire your business growth.

Julie Gause | SEO, Google Ads and Website Usability

Julie Gause, president of J. Gause Digital, specializes in SEO, PPC, and website usability. Her sessions will focus on optimizing your online presence to attract and convert your target audience. Julie’s extensive experience with both large brands and small businesses will guide you in creating effective digital marketing strategies.

Jeremy LaDuke | Marketing & Entrepreneurship

Jeremy LaDuke, founder of Epic Nine, offers expertise in marketing and entrepreneurship. His sessions will help you navigate the complexities of marketing and reach your business goals. Jeremy’s strategic insights will provide you with the tools to build a successful marketing plan.

Aaron Ingram | Photography

Aaron Ingram, a product and interior photographer, offers sessions on photography techniques and tips. Whether you have the latest gear or older equipment, Aaron’s guidance will help you capture stunning images that elevate your brand’s visual identity.

Steph Blue | Authentically Establishing Your Marketing & Content Messaging

Steph Blue, founder of Steph Bee Creative, specializes in digital content creation and social media strategy. Her sessions will focus on authentically establishing your marketing and content messaging. Steph’s experience in working with brands and influencers will help you create content that connects with your audience.

Amelia Bartlett | Business Problem Solving

Amelia Bartlett, with a background in entrepreneurship and innovation, offers expertise in business problem-solving. Her sessions will provide you with a fresh perspective and accountability-driven strategies to achieve your business objectives. Amelia’s practical approach will help you overcome challenges and drive growth.

Spencer Siefke | Market Booth Optimization

Spencer Siefke, owner of Wabi Wear Repair, specializes in market booth optimization. His sessions will offer practical tips on setting up and managing effective market booths. Spencer’s experience in building community and executing projects will help you maximize your market presence.

Bailey Foster | Starting & Growing Food Businesses

Bailey Foster, founder of Real Good Kitchen, brings her expertise in food business development to the summit. Her sessions will cover starting and growing food businesses, offering insights into building community and making lasting change through food. Bailey’s journey from Knoxville to exploring global food cultures will inspire your culinary ventures.

Don’t miss out on the chance to learn from these incredible experts. Spots are limited, so you’ll want to secure your meetings as soon as they’re live.