Keynote Speakers

Diane Darling is a consultant, keynote speaker, and author who helps leaders and organizations strengthen their results through authentic relationship-building and consistent follow-up. Over the past two decades, her practical frameworks have guided professionals to shift from “one-and-done” conversations to creating trust that lasts.

Her bestselling book, The Networking Survival Guide – translated into multiple languages – established her as a trusted voice in the field of human connection. Her expertise has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and The Washington Post. Diane has spoken for institutions such as the Harvard Kennedy School, the U.S. State Department, and organizations including Bank of America, Fidelity, and Google, where she equips people with realistic strategies they can apply immediately.

Known for her candor, humor, and actionable insights, Diane draws on her own experiences – living internationally, overcoming shyness, and learning to navigate rooms where she knew no one – to show audiences that success is not about collecting contacts but about cultivating trust. Today, she continues to teach leaders, teams, and organizations how to keep opportunities alive, strengthen client and colleague relationships, and create long-term impact.

Micah is CEO and Founding Team Member of Kojo, a leading construction procurement platform. Micah is an industry connector with experience aiding contractors in improving their operations. With insights from conversations with over 3,000 contractors from around the country, his expertise lies in optimizing operations, fostering competitive growth, and seamlessly integrating new business solutions. Micah started his career as a manager on Ray Dalio’s team at Bridgewater Associates and is an alumnus of Yale College.