League of California Cities - Annual Conference and Expo [Entertainment]
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About the event

Annual Conference and Expo

Entertainment Speaker Proposal

League of California Cities – Annual Conference & Expo
October 8–10, 2025 | Long Beach, CA
Event Info: https://www.calcities.org/education-and-events/event/2025/10/08/default-calendar/annual-conference-and-expo

Overview

We are excited to present several speaker recommendations in the Entertainment Value talk track for the 2025 League of California Cities Annual Conference & Expo. These speakers deliver compelling storytelling, emotional impact, and dynamic experiences on stage. From interactive performances to inspiring life stories, each offers a memorable session that captivates attendees while reinforcing values of leadership, resilience, and human connection. These are perfect for energizing general sessions and leaving lasting impressions.

Mark Schulman
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Celebrity Drummer, Author, Peak Performance Expert

Speaker Fee: up to $30,000* plus hotel*, meals, and event city ground transportation; Airfare, home city ground transportation, and drum kit rental are BUILT INTO his fees as part of $3,000 travel buyout

*Mark travels from Los Angeles, CA; Fee is negotiable since travel and expenses are built in to his fee

Speaker Highlights

Speaker Sizzle Reel - https://vimeo.com/246236929

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/mark-schulman

Why Mark?

Mark Schulman isn’t just a keynote speaker—he’s the rockstar drummer for P!nk, Cher, and Billy Idol, turned electrifying motivational performer. His keynotes are part rock concert, part TED Talk, and all energy. Backed by a live drum kit and immersive media, Mark delivers unforgettable performances that entertain, educate, and energize. With his backstage stories, business insights, and interactive drumming, Mark inspires teams to embrace their inner rockstar and lead with confidence.

Topic - Everyday Rockstar: How to Succeed Like a Rock Star (with optional live drumming performance)

Description:
Mark reveals the rockstar mindset that fuels success on and off the stage. Using stories from life on tour and lessons from world-class performers, he translates showmanship, collaboration, and mindset into actionable business leadership tools. Through live drumming and crowd engagement, he builds an electric connection with the audience—and leaves them fired up.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how confidence, clarity, and consistency drive high performance
  • Discover the power of mindset to shift perspective and motivation
  • Experience a high-impact, music-fueled keynote unlike any other

Highlights:

  • World-renowned drummer for P!nk, Cher, Foreigner, and others
  • Author of Conquering Life’s Stage Fright and expert in performance psychology
  • Has performed for audiences of 100,000+ and shared the stage with global icons
  • Combines live drumming, visuals, and interactivity for maximum audience engagement
  • Trusted by companies like Cisco, Microsoft, Adobe, and Walmart for major events
“I'm the one that went out on a limb. I'm the one that saw Mark speak. And I'm the one that brought the idea of him speaking to my team. They watched the video, but they still weren’t totally sold, and I needed to vouch. And what I said is, ‘trust me, this will be something unbelievable.’ And then they said, ‘…but the problem is it's going to be at 4:30 in the afternoon. Can this guy pull it off?!’ And what I'm here to tell you is he didn't just pull it off, he blew them out of their seat!! And that's not even the craziest part. The craziest part is that there was a lineup of over 50 people who took some of the most fantastic pictures with Mark, behind the drum set. And here's the thing, you don't do that unless the speaker has made a difference in your life.  And {Mark} did that!” - President and Co-founder, Allego
“I’ve had the opportunity to see Mark Schulman’s keynote on two different  occasions and each time came away inspired to think and act differently.  By integrating music, visuals and a powerful speaking style, Mark is a  unique performer in a world of talking heads. In one instance, I saw him  convince a group of local government employees to form a drum line,  leading to some real a-ha moments about team work and collaboration. I would heartily recommend him for any corporate or association event  that wants to bring in someone that can “shake things up” and give solid take away value at the same time”. - Tim Sanders, Chief Solutions Officer, YAHOO!
Jesse Israel
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5x Audible Worldwide Bestseller, Human Performance & Wellbeing Expert, Founder of the Big Quiet

Speaker Fee: up to $25,000 + $2500 Flat Travel Fee to cover RT Airfare, Ground Transfers, Hotel in addition, up to 1-2 nights provided by Organizer

Jesse travels from Los Angeles, CA; Travel and Expenses may not be required

Speaker Highlights

Speaker Reel - https://vimeo.com/1029436629

Oprah and Jesse "You Deserve Rest" - Keynote Clip - https://vimeo.com/1029437279

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/jesse-israel

Why Jesse?

Jesse Israel is the founder of The Big Quiet, a global movement that brings large-scale meditation and mindfulness to stadiums, conferences, and Fortune 500 events. His story—from record label executive to mental health advocate—is authentic and deeply resonant. Jesse offers a rare balance of calm presence and uplifting energy, perfect for resetting the room and giving attendees a meaningful pause.

Topic: The Inner Engine: How to Find Purpose, Cultivate Personal Power, and Elevate Performance from Within

Description:
Jesse guides attendees through a personal journey of reconnecting with purpose, intention, and resilience. His session includes storytelling, tools for personal alignment, and a guided meditation, offering a one-of-a-kind blend of inspiration and inner calm.

Key Takeaways:

  • Reconnect with your “inner engine” to find clarity and drive
  • Learn tools to enhance focus, reduce stress, and build mental resilience
  • Participate in a live guided meditation for emotional reset and grounding

Highlights:

  • Founder of The Big Quiet, a meditation movement featured at Madison Square Garden, SXSW, and with Oprah’s arena tour
  • Mental health advocate with partnerships across the wellness, media, and tech industries
  • Former music entrepreneur turned wellness leader with deep Gen Z and millennial appeal
  • Known for bringing calm energy and emotional depth to high-impact conferences
  • Provides a much-needed moment of reflection in fast-paced event agendas
"Jesse's keynote was a life changing experience for our group. The word to use is nothing short of 'breakthrough'" - Emerald Expositions Design Group
"After the summit, we asked each attendee to share one takeaway or 'aha' moment. The majority of the responses came from Jesse's presentation" - Adidas
“Jesse’s keynote was the most engaged I have ever seen the audience in my 20 years of attending this summit” - Global Allies
“From the moment he took to the stage, his gentle presence, self-effacing humor, and life-affirming confidence mesmerized the audience and set a perfect keynote for the rest of what turned out to be possibly the best conference in its nearly two-decade history. Highly recommended.” - Michael Adams, editor at large, Hospitality Design Summit
Justin Wren
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Founder of Fight for the Forgotten, Elite UFC/MMA Fighter, Global Humanitarian, TEDx Speaker, Bestselling Author

Speaker Fee: up to $20,000 + $2500 Flat Travel Fee to cover RT Airfare, Ground Transfers, Hotel in addition, up to 1-2 nights provided by Organizer

Justin travels from Texas

Speaker Highlights

Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlTmqF6y3sQ

Fighting for Freedom | Justin Wren | TEDxWarwick - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRJFZakfAJ0

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/justin-wren

Why Justin?

Justin Wren is a former UFC fighter with a warrior’s heart and a humanitarian’s soul. His journey from the MMA cage to the Congo rainforest, where he now advocates for one of the world’s most vulnerable communities, is as gripping as it is inspirational. With powerful visuals, deep emotion, and high-energy storytelling, Justin delivers a keynote that stirs the soul and expands perspectives. His presence on stage is humble yet commanding—ideal for organizations that value courage, compassion, and purpose.

Topic - Creating a Fighter’s Mindset & a Fighter’s Heart

Description:
This keynote explores how to channel your inner fighter—not for combat, but for purpose. Justin shares his personal story of battling depression, addiction, and finding redemption through service. Audiences are moved by his transformation and inspired to fight for what matters: their values, communities, and mental wellbeing.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how grit, vulnerability, and purpose create unshakable leadership
  • Understand the power of service and mission-driven work
  • Be inspired to lead with empathy, strength, and impact

Highlights:

  • Former UFC and Bellator MMA fighter turned global humanitarian
  • Founder of Fight for the Forgotten, building wells and infrastructure for Pygmy tribes in the Congo
  • Featured on The Joe Rogan Experience, ESPN, and NBC’s The Today Show
  • Advocates for mental health, anti-bullying, and global service missions
  • Combines raw personal storytelling with a hopeful, motivating message that transcends backgrounds
“Justin just changed my life. That was one of the most impactful talks I’ve ever heard. His energy is off the charts. You will be changed.” - International Spa Association
“I didn’t expect an MMA Fighter to have me in tears. I guarantee every human will leave changed for the better having heard The Big Pygmy’s talk.” -Jason Cox, YPO President
“He’s changed my spectrum, my spectrum of what’s possible.” - Joe Rogan, Comedian & Podcast Host
Rich Bracken
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Internationally Acclaimed Thought Leader and Emotional Intelligence Expert, Host and Emcee, DJ

Speaker Fee: up to $15,000 + $2000 Flat Travel Fee to cover RT Airfare, Ground Transfers, Hotel in addition, up to 1-2 nights provided by Organizer

Rich travels from Kansas City, MO

Speaker Highlights

Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MII-46Ok-pM

Soundtrack for Success Keynote Experience - Sizzle Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6egkHl5ECCA

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/rich-bracken

Why Rich?

Rich Bracken is a nationally recognized speaker and DJ who blends peak performance psychology with entertainment. His keynotes are a vibrant combination of personal development and live music, ideal for creating an unforgettable experience that engages both the heart and mind.

Topic - Tune In: Using Emotional Intelligence to Amplify Performance (with optional live DJ performance)

Description:
Rich explores how emotional intelligence influences leadership, collaboration, and personal wellbeing. By combining practical EQ tools with live music, storytelling, and movement, he helps attendees reconnect with their purpose and unlock performance potential in a truly memorable way.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the core elements of emotional intelligence and its impact on work
  • Learn actionable techniques to boost morale, empathy, and engagement
  • Experience the power of music and mindset to enhance leadership effectiveness

Highlights:

  • Featured speaker for the NFL, ESPN, SHRM, and national leadership summits
  • Award-winning DJ with live performance capabilities integrated into keynotes
  • EQ strategist and researcher who blends science with storytelling
  • Podcast host and contributor to HR and personal development media
  • Known for high-impact, emotionally resonant sessions that drive lasting change
“The team had nothing short of AMAZING things to say about you and your presentation! Your message carried throughout the event, it was absolutely perfect for us. One group even made an interpretive dance to represent the momentum of a WAVE for a different activity (not joking, and yes, it was AWESOME).” - Jocelle Sarenpa, Director of Sales Enablement, Field Nation
“Your presentation was amazing today and exactly what I needed! I loved learning more about emotional intelligence and how it helps me control my happiness and stress levels, while singing and dancing in my seat! I loved the incorporation of the DJ aspect. It was so different and fun. Thank you for a great session!” - Austin Bagwell, Director of Global Sales, MGM Resorts International
Michelle Anne Johnson
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Expert in Personal Power and Influence, Executive Coach, Former Hollywood Actress

Speaker Fee: up to $15,000 + $2000 Flat Travel Fee to cover RT Airfare, Ground Transfers, Hotel in addition, up to 1-2 nights provided by Organizer

Michelle travels from Florida

Speaker Highlights

Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2GtoJelijI

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/michelle-anne-johnson

Why Michelle?

Michelle Anne Johnson brings Hollywood flair to the leadership stage. She embodied the art of influence on stages and television for over 20 years on shows such as Friends, Bones, CSI: Miami, Modern Family, and NCIS. As a former television actress turned executive communication coach, she transforms business audiences into more dynamic, confident, and binge-worthy speakers. With charisma, humor, and razor-sharp insights into stage presence, Michelle bridges entertainment and executive presence like no one else. Her sessions are equal parts inspiring and hilarious, making her an ideal fit for energizing an audience while giving them tools they’ll use long after the applause fades.

Topic - Hollywood Tips for Business Leaders: Be a Binge-Worthy Speaker

Description:
In this fun and interactive keynote, Michelle shares secrets from the acting world to help leaders become more captivating communicators. Attendees will learn how to bring the “it factor” to their presentations, meetings, and public speaking moments. Using voice, body language, storytelling, and character work, Michelle turns even the shyest professionals into on-stage standouts.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how to command attention and elevate your executive presence
  • Use proven Hollywood techniques to engage any audience
  • Build confidence and clarity in high-stakes communication moments

Highlights:

  • Former television actress turned sought-after leadership coach and keynote speaker
  • Has coached hundreds of executives and entrepreneurs in storytelling and stage presence
  • Combines performance techniques with neuroscience and communication psychology
  • Known for humor, warmth, and immediately usable techniques
  • Ideal for sessions focused on public speaking, influence, or team connection
"Michelle energized the group after a long day, and that meant a lot to our clients. Her insightful thoughts on authenticity, confidence, and purpose left a profound impact on all the participants, igniting a spark of inspiration in everyone present. Her presence significantly contributed to the success of the event, which plays a crucial role in molding future leaders." - D.H., Principal, Big 4 Consulting Firm
"Simply the best! From one-on-one coaching to delivering engaging keynotes, Michelle's impact is immediate and lasting. If you're seeking an expert to help you or your audience build confidence, develop presence, and deliver effectively, look no further." - K.G., VP, Communications, Deloitte
Amberly Lago
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Motivational Speaker, Bestselling Author

Speaker Fee: up to $15,000 + $1500 Flat Travel Fee to cover RT Airfare, Ground Transfers, Hotel in addition, up to 1-2 nights provided by Organizer

Amberly travels from Los Angeles; Travel and Expenses may not be necessary

Speaker Highlights

Speaking Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_lWF0EDOH4

TEDx - The Pace of Pain - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3gEfdAcO_8

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/amberly-lago

Why Amberly?

Amberly Lago is a best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and resilience expert whose life story is both heart-wrenching and wildly inspiring. After a near-fatal motorcycle accident shattered her body and led to a diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome, she turned unimaginable adversity into a mission to help others find strength through struggle. Amberly brings massive stage presence, emotional storytelling, and a high level of polish that makes her keynotes both cinematic and soul-stirring. She’s an ideal closer or featured storyteller who moves audiences to tears and standing ovations.

Topic - Finding Joy Through the Journey: Embracing Every Moment

Description:
Amberly’s powerful keynote invites audiences to turn pain into purpose and adversity into growth. She shares how to rise through life’s challenges with resilience, gratitude, and grit. With humor, authenticity, and hope, she reminds attendees that joy isn’t found in perfect circumstances—but in our ability to own the present moment, no matter what we’re going through.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how to reframe adversity as an opportunity for growth
  • Build daily habits that boost resilience and inner strength
  • Walk away feeling reconnected to purpose, joy, and gratitude

Highlights:

  • Author of the best-selling book True Grit and Grace
  • Featured on NBC’s Today Show, The Doctors, and Hallmark Channel
  • Host of the True Grit and Grace podcast, with a global listener base
  • TEDx speaker with over 1 million views and counting
  • Founder of the Unstoppable Life Mastermind and speaker at Tony Robbins–level events
Speaker after speaker came up and sang her praises in a way that you don’t typically hear at events about the host.   All because this woman leads with such a spirit of love and compassion for others.  I watched her after the event as she spoke to each person that waited to get a photo and hug her (she’s a great hugger!!) and she held their attention as if they were the only one in the room that mattered at that moment. What a fantastic example she is of who I want to be more like and the spirit I want to embrace. Grit, grace, love and unstoppable energy and courage!!! This is my friend and Texas sister AMBERLY LAGO. If you don’t know her yet - you should!! - Karen Gray
“There has been no other room like it! There was hope, change, transformation, belief, empowerment, and love filling this room like I had never felt before! It was truly special what Amberly shares and how she pours into people!” -Jillian Riddell
“You are an authentic hero, and it amazes me you can be humble in the light of your luminous accomplishments. I have received calls from other members of the group who wanted to discuss with me how they might change the way they live their lives in light of your message of focused endurance, belief in self, and the willingness to endure great pain and fight through incredible obstacles to achieve a life worth living. I cannot thank you enough. I am a big fan.” - Mike Altman, Simon, Altman & Kabaker
Amanda Lindout
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NY Times Bestselling Author, Expert on Transformation & Extraordinary Mindset

Speaker Fee: up to $20,000 + $2000 Flat Travel Fee to cover RT Airfare, Ground Transfers, Hotel in addition, up to 1-2 nights provided by Organizer

Amanda travels from British Columbia, Canada

Speaker Highlights

Speaker Demo - https://vimeo.com/1035315317

Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/amanda-lindhout

Why Amanda?

Amanda Lindhout’s story is one of the most powerful and captivating narratives you’ll ever hear. A former journalist who survived 460 days in captivity in Somalia, Amanda delivers an emotionally gripping keynote that takes audiences from the depths of human suffering to the heights of forgiveness and personal strength. Her talk is cinematic in scope, raw in its vulnerability, and uplifting in its message. She’s an ideal keynote for those moments at a conference where you want to deeply move and re-center your audience on the human spirit.

Topic - Beyond Survival: Healing, Growth, and the Power of the Human Spirit

Description:
In this breathtaking keynote, Amanda recounts her harrowing experience as a hostage in Somalia and the inner transformation that carried her through unimaginable hardship. Through the lens of forgiveness, resilience, and the strength of the human will, she inspires audiences to see their own lives—and their ability to lead—with fresh perspective.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how to find inner strength in the face of overwhelming adversity
  • Understand the profound impact of forgiveness and compassion
  • Walk away with renewed appreciation for life, leadership, and human connection

Highlights:

  • Best-selling author of A House in the Sky, an international bestseller and award-winning memoir
  • Subject of an upcoming A24 limited series based on her life story
  • TEDx speaker with millions inspired by her resilience
  • Global humanitarian and advocate for trauma recovery
  • Keynote speaker for audiences ranging from the UN to Fortune 500 companies
“Amanda’s story, and the moving way she shares it, served as the perfect close to our Fortune Magazine Summit. The 900+ CEOs and top executives were brought to tears and cheers as they received a message that put the significant pressures, they face every day into perspective. One CEO shared with me that he had faced a $500 million loss which has been obviously weighing on him, but Amanda’s keynote gave him a new lens through which to view the impact – it was just money! She is an exceptional speaker.” - Verne Harnish, Chair, Growth Summit Presented By Fortune
“I’ve been booking keynote speakers for 25 years. I’ve seen them all. The good. The bad and the average. So, when someone exceptional takes my stage – I know it quickly. Amanda was that exception. The audience was so transfixed on her story that you could hear a pin drop. By the end of it all – there wasn’t a dry eye in the house and she got a huge standing ovation. I’m happy to recommend her to anyone, she is one of the world leading experts on resilience.” -Howard Szigeti – Producer, Unique Lives & Experience