Keynote Speaker : Ed Viesturs
Ed Viesturs is America's leading high altitude mountaineer, having climbed many of the world's most challenging summits, including ascending Mount Everest six times. He recently completed a 16-year quest to climb all 14 of the world's highest mountains (above 8,000 meters) without the use of supplemental oxygen. In doing so, he became the first American and the 5th person in the world to accomplish this. He reached the summit of his 14th peak, Annapurna, on May 12, 2005.
"When I first attempt a Himalayan peak," Viesturs explains, "I climb without bottled oxygen, even if it keeps me from reaching the summit. My personal goal is to see how I can perform, to experience the mountain as it is without reducing it to my level. For me, how I reach the top is more important than whether I do.
"Once climbers are on oxygen," Viesturs continues, "they become stronger. But it's a bit of a crutch. Without it, I don't have a mechanical apparatus that can fail on me and thereby endanger me. The oxygen system is awkward. Sunglasses won't fit over the mask, so I have to wear goggles, which fog up. Also, I can't seem to suck enough air fast enough through the valves of the mask -- I have to rip it off to take a full breath.
"Most importantly, I'm aware of the tricks that altitude and hypoxia can play on you. While climbing, I test myself, asking myself whether I'm aware of the conditions, of my actions, and of what is around me. Exhaustion and hypoxia can cause one to lose it mentally, and I never allow myself to fall into this state. When I'm guiding, however, I always use oxygen. You're there for the clients, and oxygen does enable you to function better, both physically and mentally."
Keynote Speaker : Connie Podesta
Connie is renowned, not only for top results, but also for her engaging personality and style. She is a master at capturing an audience and keeping them actively involved throughout her presentation. Connie is an expert educator, a powerful motivator, and an amazing entertainer, which is why her audiences can ALWAYS count on an unforgettable experience. Connie’s super-charged personality is hard to resist. And her talent for empowering her audiences to take positive action is hard to ignore.
Connie’s expertise allows her to tackle even the toughest issues facing companies and organizations today. Connie has an amazing ability to bring out great "leadership" qualities in all people, no matter their job, function, or title. Her uncanny insight into the behaviors of individuals, teams, leaders, and organizations has encouraged millions of people to take the action necessary to achieve the success they deserve, the results they desire, and the personal and professional growth they seek.
Connie presents leadership/management sessions that are guaranteed to positively change the way your organization looks at leadership and the dramatic impact it has upon every other aspect of your business.