Speaker Reel - https://vimeo.com/852683375?fl=pl&fe=vl

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/smiley-poswolsky

Speaker Website - https://www.smileyposwolsky.com/financial-services-keynote-speaker

Relevant Post [Linkedin]

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Why Smiley?

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For sales leaders and sales support professionals, connection is currency. Smiley’s proven frameworks teach leaders to strengthen client relationships, inspire team commitment, and close performance gaps through intentional acts of inclusion and empathy. With experience tailoring his message to the financial services industry, Smiley will resonate deeply with Elavon’s audience and leave them with tangible ways to enhance relationships both internally and with customers.

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Suggested Topic*

^{*for further tailoring by Smiley}

The Future of Belonging: Leading with Empathy to Drive Sales Performance‍

The financial services industry in 2025 is characterized by a complex environment of regulatory changes, technological disruption, market volatility, industry consolidation, and evolving consumer behaviors. AI is expected to become integral to banking, potentially increasing profits by $170 billion to $340 billion by 2028.

But employees need time to learn new skills and training, specifically as it relates to consumer engagement and building deeper relationships and trust with teams, clients, and customers. In high-pressure environments and challenging times, employees and customers need to feel cared for and supported.

In a nonstop, disengaged, overwhelmed workplace; with wall-to-wall Zoom meetings, 24/7 Teams messages, AI agents, and the rapid adoption of GenAI & ChatGPT; the value of meaningful human connection increases exponentially and business is about building belonging for your people, your customers, and your community. High-levels of employee belonging create a 56% increase in job performance, lead to a 50% drop in turnover risk, and can save a company $52 million a year.

Smiley’s practical keynotes provide an actionable toolkit for financial services leaders to attract + retain top talent across generations, lead culture transformation, increase employee engagement + retention, build high-performing super-connected teams, build a culture of trust, psychological safety, and belonging, and drive growth in the future of work.

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Highlights

• Bestselling author and top voice on workplace belonging and human connection.
• Worked with Google, Apple, and multiple Fortune 500 financial services companies.
• Featured in Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, and Fast Company.
• Known for engaging, interactive sessions with measurable takeaways.
• Expertise in translating empathy into higher sales, stronger retention, and increased referrals.
• Creator of practical “belonging rituals” adopted by leading organizations.

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“Your presentation on belonging in the workforce was phenomenal, and we received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our attendees. The information you shared as thought-provoking and will guide us as we move forward in equipping employees andleaders with the skills of today—and tomorrow—here at MetLife.”— Head of Global Technology and Operations, MetLife

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Why Johnny?

For sales leaders looking to stand out in competitive environments, Johnny brings a fresh, creative lens to client engagement. His unique approach to building authentic connections and unforgettable experiences translates directly into increased loyalty and repeat business—critical goals for Elavon’s growth.

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Suggested Keynote*

^{*for further tailoring by Johnny}

Finding a Way

So many ideas, so little resources! Some of the biggest business success stories were the product of dollar coffees and a loving parent’s garage—including Johnny Cupcakes. So if you have the drive then this presentation will show you and your audience how to get behind the wheel and steer your organization into new territories and gently away from old ways!

With utter conviction and complete passion Johnny will talk leaders, entrepreneurs, marketers, and sales teams through the lessons he has learned on his journey to global domination, arming them with easy-to-apply strategies for growing small ideas into a global phenomenon. Johnny shares dozens of ingredients to success, including the power of details, collaboration, and the art of rolling with the punches while learning to adapt.

Key Takeaways:

• Turn Constraints into Creativity – Learn how to innovate and grow even when resources are limited, using constraints as fuel for fresh ideas.
• Think Beyond the Usual Path – Discover strategies for steering your team toward new opportunities while leaving behind outdated approaches.
• Elevate the Details – Understand how small, thoughtful touches can differentiate your brand and sales approach in competitive markets.
• Collaborate for Bigger Wins – Harness the power of partnerships and teamwork to amplify impact and reach.
• Adapt and Thrive – Build resilience by learning to roll with challenges, pivot quickly, and keep momentum toward your goals.

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Highlights

• Founder of Johnny Cupcakes, one of the most recognizable independent brands worldwide.
• Featured in Forbes, Businessweek, and The New York Times.
• Expert in customer loyalty, differentiation, and experiential branding.
• Delivered hundreds of keynotes for corporate and association audiences globally.
• Known for highly engaging, humorous, and interactive presentations.
• Proves that authenticity and creativity can be major revenue drivers.

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_{“Johnny Cupcakes was AMAZING! He inspired and rejuvenated our room with his creativity, humanity, and surprises. Our audience is still raving about him. We only wish to have a reason to collaborate again with him down the road!” - Anna Topping, Sr Mgr, Operations & Impact, TechBirmingham}

_{"Run ­don't walk ­to hire Johnny to speak at your event! The recipe is simple: mix equal parts incredible story and unbridled energy; add dashes of humor, creativity and passion; sprinkle with joyful nuttiness...and what you and your attendees are left with is an hour they will never forget. Pump up your own team; wow an external audience ­there are so many settings where this man will ABSOLUTELY CRUSH IT.” - Sales Manager, Streamline Events, Inc}‍

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Why Taryn?

Taryn offers world-class credibility without pretense—bringing both inspiration and actionable strategies for high-performing, forward-focused sales leaders. As Elavon enters another year of ambitious goals and evolving client expectations, Taryn’s empowering message equips leaders to embrace change with confidence, elevate team resilience, and maintain momentum through challenge. Her dynamic stage presence, global recognition, and proven ability to connect across industries make her a powerful choice to energize your kickoff and align your teams on purpose-driven performance.

Suggested Keynote:

Get It

Taryn knows what it takes to break through self-doubt and turn dreams into reality. Now, she’s bringing that game-changing mindset to the stage with her transformative keynote: Get It.

With her signature blend of heartfelt storytelling, humor, and practical wisdom, Taryn shares the seven powerful principles that took her from hesitation to unstoppable momentum—like how polite persistence wears down resistance.

Through candid insights and real-life strategies, Get It empowers audiences to dream big, back themselves, and take action—no matter the obstacles.

This keynote is perfect for organizations looking to energize their teams—whether sales-driven, performance-focused, or simply ready to level up.

Takeaways Include:

• Actionable strategies to silence negative self-talk, build resilience, and push past limitations
• Inspiring, high-energy storytelling that encourages bold action
• A culture boost through personal accountability, optimism, and drive

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Highlights

• 2023 Australian of the Year and internationally recognized changemaker.
• Creator of the Embrace documentary, seen by millions worldwide.
• Named GE’s highest-rated speaker; trusted by Google, Harvard, Disney, Deloitte, and more.
• Recognized by the United Nations, Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls, and the Geena Davis Institute.
• Expert in resilience, self-leadership, and driving purpose-led performance.
• Known for an engaging, relatable style that blends humor with actionable insights.
• Proven ability to inspire lasting mindset shifts that lead to measurable results.

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_{“Taryn’s energy and leadership lit up the room.   Professional, inspiring and unforgettable - Taryn delivers a world-class keynote.” - Melinda Petrunoff, Managing Director, Pinterest}

_{“We just love what Taryn brings  to the table. We go at it from a data perspective, thinking deeply about the things we can do to change the world, and we love how Taryn connects the data and the emotion together. Awesome and amazing presentation.” - Elle Duncan | Global Brand Solutions Lead, Google HQ}‍

Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDss3M6bttE

Speaker Video - Big Little Breakthroughs

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/josh-linkner

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Why Josh?

‍Sales leaders are constantly challenged to meet targets in evolving markets. Josh teaches how to innovate not just in products and services, but in the way teams approach sales, client relationships, and market positioning. His experience in financial services and proven track record of helping organizations unlock fresh ideas make him an ideal fit for Elavon.

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Suggested Topics

^{for further customization from Josh}

Find A Way ^tm

Description: A proven innovation framework to solve problems, accelerate opportunity, and sustain growth. This keynote by Josh Linkner focuses on a 5-step innovation framework for full-organization ingenuity, offering tools for sustainable success. The framework emphasizes agility, creativity, and improvisation over traditional approaches.

Outcomes: Leaders and teams will leave with a model for harnessing ingenuity to solve problems and seize opportunities, innovative strategies for daily results, and the confidence to tackle the unknown and emerge victorious.

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Big Little Breakthroughs^tm

Description: This keynote addresses how small, everyday innovations can drive oversized results. It presents a practical approach to unlocking dormant creative capacity, focusing on small, daily creative acts that lead to significant long-term rewards.

Outcomes: Attendees will gain a framework for cultivating a high volume of innovations, inspiring stories demonstrating the power of creative problem-solving, and insights into the habits and tactics of the world's most prolific innovators.

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Highlights

• New York Times bestselling author on business innovation.
• Founded and scaled multiple tech companies to success.
• Venture capitalist with investments in over 100 startups.
• Advisor to leading financial services organizations.
• Known for energizing, story-driven, and actionable presentations.
• Provides tools for applying innovation directly to sales growth.

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_{“Josh Linkner delivers a roadmap to help future generations of entrepreneurs and innovators push boundaries and explore the art of the possible. He provides a clear path to help you build an army of everyday innovators and turn ideas into action.” -Steve Case, Co-Founder and Former CEO, AOL, Chairman, Revolution Partners}

_{“In today’s fiercely competitive global marketplace the most important resource any business has is the creative thinking of its people. Josh Linkner lays out a road map that will guide individuals, teams, and companies to higher levels of creativity. It is a journey that will lead to better ideas and breakthrough thinking.” - Bill Ford, Executive Chairman, Ford Motor Company}‍

Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFL12AZz114

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/erica-dhawan

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Why Erica?

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For Elavon’s sales leadership audience, where building and sustaining client relationships often spans multiple channels, Erica’s expertise in reading and responding to “digital body language” is a game-changer. She will equip leaders with strategies to communicate trust, empathy, and credibility across email, video calls, and digital touchpoints—helping them shorten sales cycles, improve collaboration, and increase customer satisfaction.

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Suggested Topic*

^{*for further tailoring by Erica}

Digital Body Language: Building Trust and Closing Deals in a Hybrid World‍

This isn’t your ordinary keynote; it’s a front-row seat to the future of inspiration and impact in the age of AI. WSJ Bestselling Author and award winning keynote speaker Erica Dhawan promises not just a talk but an immersive experience, where the secrets to unlocking peak performance and team spirit are revealed in the new world of work. Get ready to be captivated, motivated, and equipped with the tools to bring out the best in yourself and those around you.

Discover the exact strategies to build 21st century teams that defy the odds, whether it’s how to be a better leader in the AI revolution or turn challenges into triumphs in the digital-first world. Spoiler alert: AI won’t replace us, but leaders who master it will redefine the game. Globally recognized teamwork expert Erica Dhawan provides actionable insights, equipping attendees with the knowledge and strategies to not only adapt to the changing landscape but to thrive in it.

Learning Outcomes:

• Build Trust in Times of Change: Learn proven techniques to foster trust within teams amidst constant digital and AI transformation
• Thrive Amid Uncertainty: Gain actionable tips to enhance engagement, minimize friction, and confidently navigate the unpredictable terrain
• AI as a Leadership Tool: Recognize AI as an asset rather than a threat, and harness its capabilities for organizational success
• Cultivate Team Spirit: Uncover strategies to enhance collaboration, experimentation, and camaraderie within your teams

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Highlights

• Bestselling author of Digital Body Language.
• Recognized as one of the Top 50 Management Thinkers in the world (Thinkers50).
• Advisor to Fortune 500 companies, top banks, and global nonprofits.
• Expert on trust, collaboration, and empathy in hybrid and digital-first environments.
• Frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Fast Company.
• Delivers frameworks that directly improve client trust and team cohesion.

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^{“Erica’s session was engaging, relevant, and actionable. She is thoughtful, inspirational, and smart with a contagious positive energy. All organizations and executive leaders would benefit from having her as an advisor to drive behavioral change, harness the power of networks, and think beyond traditional cohorts. She is a thought leader in the development of collaborative ways of working, improving productivity and customer engagement and experience.” ―Lisa McCann, COO & Global Head of Customer Success and Delivery Services, Korn Ferry‍}

^{“Erica’s presentation was absolutely perfect for our leaders. Our group was diverse and Erica was a hit with everyone! Her storytelling style of presenting along with a healthy dose of informative case studies kept everyone engaged and interested and excited about using connectional intelligence to transform our business”. ―George Chavel, Chairman Emeritus, Sodexo}‍

Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ED8CqDIQHd8

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/seth-mattison

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Why Seth?

Elavon’s sales leaders face constant change—shifting client expectations, evolving market conditions, and the challenge of leading diverse teams. Seth specializes in equipping leaders to thrive in these environments, emphasizing empathy, adaptability, and trust as core leadership skills. His track record with financial services audiences ensures his message will resonate and drive action.

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Suggested Topic*

^{*for further tailoring by Seth}

The Human Advantage: Strategies for Winning in the Age of Machines

As we find ourselves propelled into the age of artificial intelligence and hyper change, it's easy to think that tools will define our trades and machines will dominate our work. With jobs evolving faster than people, thriving in this era requires unlocking the power of both technology and human potential. While machines can replicate tasks, they can never replicate the heart and soul behind the work.

As technology commodifies competitive advantages, organizations must innovate and shift from mere efficiency to true augmentation. By blending Al with human creativity, empathy, and complex problem-solving, businesses can achieve a synergy that drives unprecedented growth and engagement. Let's harness new tools to drive efficiency and scale while amplifying the human touch that makes us unique.

Key Takeaways:

• ‍Embracing our Humanity: Tap into the irreplaceable aspects of human creativity, empathy, and emotional intelligence that drive meaningful work and innovation.
• ‍Differentiating Authentically: Stand out in the Al era by forging  genuine, human connections to create standout customer experiences that algorithms can't replicate.
• ‍Deepen Customer Connections: Go beyond digital to build personal  human touchpoints to create a bond that feels authentic and irreplaceable.
• ‍Unleashing Workforce Potential: Foster a culture where passion, purpose, and personal investment are at the forefront, making every task and interaction distinctly human and impactful.

This Program Is Perfect For Leaders And Teams:

• Navigating the challenges of Al adoption and workforce transformation
• Seeking to leverage human creativity and emotional intelligence for competitive advantage
• Aiming to create a culture of innovation, adaptability, and resilience

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Highlights

• Trusted advisor to Fortune 500 brands, including major financial services companies.
• Over 15 years of research on workforce trends and leadership in change.
• Expert at blending motivation with practical leadership tools.
• Recognized for dynamic, high-energy keynote delivery.
• Deep experience customizing content for sales leadership audiences.
• Proven ability to inspire action and foster lasting culture shifts.

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_{“Seth's work with the agency has had a big impact. A number of leaders have continued to reference the session and how much of an impact the ideas have had on their thinking as it relates to leading digital transformation at the agency.” - Jane Datta, Chief Human Capital Officer, NASA}

_{“As we navigated our own transformational journey, Seth’s research and insights provided a spot-on and powerful framework to help our executive team challenge the assumptions they've made and the beliefs they carry about who they are and how they're showing up in the world as leaders.” - Susan Cisco, Head of HR & Employee Experience, MassMutual}‍

‍Growth and Perseverance Keynote Speaker, Bestselling Author of The Third Door - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alJNKEu-3CU&t=89s

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/alex-banayan

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Why Alex?

In sales, finding the “third door” to opportunity—an unexpected yet effective pathway—is often the key to success. Alex’s high-energy keynotes inspire sales leaders to innovate, take smart risks, and relentlessly pursue their goals, making him an ideal motivator for Elavon’s SKO.

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Suggested Topic*

^{*for further customization from Alex}

The Third Door: Unlocking the Keys to Breakthrough Sales Success

We all face rejection. We all deal with fear. At times, it can feel like there are dozens of obstacles holding us back from achieving our biggest goals.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are certain mindsets and tools that can clear the obstacles along your path and add rocket fuel to your success. After spending fifteen years researching and interviewing the world’s most innovative leaders, bestselling author Alex Banayan’s widely acclaimed Third Door™ framework can help any organization achieve its goals and radically accelerate its growth.

In this high-energy keynote, Banayan takes audiences on an unprecedented adventure, from hacking The Price is Right to chasing Larry King through a grocery store to the multi-year quest to learn from Bill Gates and Lady Gaga. Alongside these larger-than-life stories, Banayan takes the insights from his bestselling book The Third Door to a whole new level, making them practical and applicable for organizations of all sizes. This powerful presentation teaches you how to:

• Cultivate a culture of bold thinking
• Instill the mindset of persistence and going “all in”
• Fuel growth, no matter the external economic environment
• Become more capable of achieving your company’s biggest objectives

This wildly entertaining keynote is packed with tools and lessons guaranteed to supercharge your mindset—to the point where growth becomes inevitable.

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Highlights

• Bestselling author of The Third Door.
• Youngest business author to be published by Crown Business.
• Interviewed some of the world’s most successful leaders and innovators.
• Inspiring storyteller with actionable lessons on persistence.
• Popular speaker for corporate sales and leadership audiences worldwide.
• Known for delivering motivation that sparks immediate action.

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^{“The Third Door is a favorite book of many employees in our company, so having Banayan speak at our headquarters was an amazing experience. The keynote was both down to earth and kept everyone wanting more. Banayan also stuck around after to meet and connect with each and every person. Having Banayan speak at our company was a giant success and employees ask, to this day, when we can have him back.” — Justin Copie, CEO, Innovative Solutions}

^{“Alex Banayan was the best speaker we’ve ever had. He brought a whole new element to our leadership offsite, unleashing the energy of our team in a way I’ve never seen before. His messages resonated deeply with our team, enabling us to continue to grow in the midst of uncertain times. I can’t recommend him enough.”— Jeff Oberbillig, Senior Director, Red Hat}‍

Yemi Penn Speaker Showreel - https://vimeo.com/788802395

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/yemi-penn

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Why Yemi?

‍In high-stakes sales leadership, challenges are inevitable. Yemi’s ability to reframe setbacks into fuel for creativity and innovation provides leaders with tools to overcome obstacles, adapt quickly, and inspire their teams to do the same. Her personal and professional experience ensures her message is both authentic and immediately actionable.

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Suggested Topic

Building a Thriving Culture

Yemi Penn’s keynote is more than a conversation about workplace culture—it’s a transformative experience that challenges leaders and teams to rethink how they create belonging, collaboration, and innovation in times of uncertainty. Attendees leave equipped with the tools and mindset to bridge divides, foster cultures of shared power, and move from survival to thriving.

Through Cultural Peace Brokering, Yemi reveals how organizations can break free from outdated systems, navigate difficult conversations with confidence, and cultivate spaces where people feel valued, empowered, and inspired to contribute fully. This keynote isn’t just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about building something bold, sustainable, and deeply needed.

Why This Matters:

• Toxic cultures hurt retention, creativity, and performance—ignoring them is no longer an option.
• True change requires more than policies; it demands shifts in systems, behaviors, and mindsets.
• Belonging isn’t just ethical—it drives engagement, resilience, and measurable business results.

Key Takeaways:

• How to build thriving, inclusive cultures that foster emotional safety and shared power.
• The art of Cultural Peace Brokering to bridge divides and strengthen teams.
• Practical tools for leaders to navigate difficult conversations and drive systemic change.

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Highlights

• Engineer turned entrepreneur and transformation strategist.
• International speaker on resilience, change, and innovation.
• Inspires audiences to see adversity as a pathway to growth.
• Blends personal storytelling with practical frameworks.
• Experienced across corporate, entrepreneurial, and non-profit sectors.
• Known for delivering empowering, high-energy presentations.

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^{"Yemi facilitated an extremely complex and challenging symposium over 2 days of multiple sessions with several stakeholders to help us achieve concrete outcomes and action plans that we wanted. It was an immense task and Yemi was beyond excellent in keeping people engaged, active and in good humour to work collaboratively and effectively" – University Technology Sydney}

^{"I just wanted to take the time to write back to say thank you for this session. Yemi is an incredible speaker and the session far exceeded my expectations! I’ve been involved in other mentoring programs before and they didn’t have something quite like this / to this quality before." - Transgrid}‍