Founded in 2010, Respawn was created with the philosophy that when talented people have creative freedom, they’ll make extraordinary games that achieve the unexpected. Respawn Entertainment is the Academy Award-winning studio behind critically acclaimed multi-platform games Apex Legends, Titanfall, Titanfall 2, Star Wars™ Jedi: Fallen Order, and Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond. As a collective of creative developers, we have launched some of the industry’s most critically and commercially successful games. We truly love what we do and want to share our passion with players worldwide.
Event Date: In May
Format: Virtual Presentation
Budget: $5k - $7k
Theme: AAPI Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Month
Author of Big Asian Energy, TEDx Speaker, Founder of Mastery Academy, and Social Media Creator
John Wang is the author of Big Asian Energy (Penguin Random House, 2025), a leadership and communication coach with 15+ years of experience. He has spoken on stages at TEDx, McKinsey, and leading colleges, sharing insights on breaking internal barriers to success. An engaging and uplifting speaker, John shares relatable stories of breaking free from our cultural and social barriers, and gives tangible techniques to help audiences speak up boldly and authentically, even when facing imposter syndrome, inner-criticism, or self-doubt.
Virtual Fee: $5,000
Speaker Profile: https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/john-wang
John is based in Vancouver, Canada
John Wang is a dynamic speaker, entrepreneur, and the founder of Big Asian Energy, a movement dedicated to empowering Asian professionals to embrace confidence, leadership, and cultural pride. With a background in marketing, storytelling, and personal development, John has helped countless individuals break past societal and cultural barriers to achieve personal and professional success. His engaging and insightful keynotes inspire audiences to celebrate their identity while fostering a mindset of resilience and empowerment.
This engaging and relatable talk features storytelling and hands-on techniques that help audiences identify the myths that often face Asian employees which hold them back from leadership-- and how to break through the barriers.
How many hidden overachievers—especially women and minorities—go unrecognized at work, afraid to speak up and without advocates? In this keynote, John Wang shares research on why top talent is overlooked and leaving, and provides actionable strategies to help them step into leadership with confidence and self-advocacy.
"Loved his energy and the “ACE” framework...something that I can still remember. Loved the follow up resource (ACE assessment). John did an amazing job with the presentation."- Christina Sheane, Chair Of Asian Colleagues Initiative, Mio Mckinsey
"His stage presence, his confidence, his ability to break down big and complex and challenging and sensitive topics into things that are easily understandable and digestible is such a profound skill."- Toper Ravadilla, Community Organizer, Mighty Networks
Angela Chee is a media/communication coach, keynote speaker, creator of “YOU, Amplified!®”, author, and host of “The Power Of The Only” podcast. A former TV news anchor and reporter with more than 20 years of media experience, she now helps leaders own their voice and power, break through their barriers, and step into their leadership. Through one-on-one coaching, group workshops and online programs she helps her clients be YOU, Amplified!®,-clear, confident and connected and ready for any opportunity on-camera and off.
Virtual Fee: $8,000 - will negotiate to meet your budget.
Speaker Profile: https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/angela-chee
Angela is based in San Diego, CA
Angela Chee is a former TV news anchor, media and communication coach, and keynote speaker dedicated to helping individuals step into their power, amplify their voice, and lead with confidence. As the founder of The Empowered Voice, Angela’s work focuses on empowering professionals—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—to break through barriers, embrace their unique identity, and thrive in their careers. Her insights into leadership, visibility, and personal growth make her a compelling choice for Respawn Entertainment’s AAPI Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Event.
In this uplifting and energizing keynote, media and communication coach Angela Chee shows your team how to embrace their individuality and transform feelings of being the “only” one in the room into a powerful advantage. Drawing on her pioneering media career, compelling real-world examples, and stories from trailblazing leaders, she shares “The Power Of The Only” principles and offers practical science-based tools and steps to help people own their opportunities, speak up with confidence, connect more authentically, and step into their leadership.
Through reflective exercises, authentic storytelling, and strategies grounded in psychology and neuroscience, participants will leave inspired to claim their voice and realize that by owning who they are, they unlock new levels of collaboration, innovation, and impact. This keynote empowers teams to thrive together, igniting a deeper sense of purpose and creating lasting impact both within your organization and beyond.
Angela’s The Power of The Only™ Principles help organizations discover new possibilities, inspire clear and confident action, transform unique perspectives into competitive advantages and create authentic connections that last. Ultimately, her teachings are the keys that will take you from merely surviving to successfully thriving.
Key Outcomes for Your Audience:
Angela’s relatable style and interactive approach spark genuine excitement and meaningful insights. By celebrating and elevating every individual’s voice, your organization fosters deeper trust, collaboration, and a stronger sense of belonging. Participants leave feeling equipped and motivated to continue growing—both personally and as a unified team—well beyond the keynote.
Bring your organization together under a shared vision of empowerment. When people dare to Own your Only™, everyone thrives.
“Angela is an exceptional speaker. Her personality and energy are great. Her professionalism in her preparation and presenting was thoughtful and audience specific. We had a difficult group to please and had extremely positive feedback about her keynote and session. She was a motivational kick off for the rest of the day. Our audience not only enjoyed her story, but she opened everyone up to have more meaningful and connecting conversations. We look forward to seeing her again soon!” – Kim Lanham, “Break The Glass", Executive Women’s Summit
As a first-generation immigrant of Indian descent raised with lofty expectations, Rashmi excelled as a lawyer, graduating with honors from Columbia Law School. After gaining experience at major corporations, she embarked on an independent law practice in Miami. During the housing boom, she developed an ethical blind spot collaborating with a real estate developer engaged in questionable practices. Driven by her desire for success to provide for her children, Rashmi refrained from questioning her client's actions despite her inner voice urging caution. This led to a federal prison sentence for bank fraud.
During her six months in federal prison, Rashmi found inner peace and self-forgiveness. This humbling yet invaluable experience made her realize that while living with remorse is one thing, allowing it to define one's identity is another. Now a "recovering lawyer and investment banker," female leader, and community entrepreneur, Rashmi is an internationally recognized keynote speaker and TEDx presenter.
Virtual Fee: Will negotiate to $7k
Speaker Profile: https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/rashmi-airan
Rashmi is based in Miami, FL.
Rashmi Airan is an internationally recognized speaker, consultant, and ethics expert who shares powerful lessons on integrity, leadership, and resilience. As a first-generation Indian-American, she brings a unique perspective on cultural identity, decision-making, and the importance of mental wellness in professional settings. Rashmi’s journey—from corporate success to overcoming personal and professional adversity—offers invaluable insights on accountability, ethical leadership, and personal growth. Her engaging and deeply personal keynotes inspire audiences to navigate challenges with courage, authenticity, and integrity.
In corporate America, where mental health often remains hidden, Rashmi Airan's journey from finance professional to federal prison sheds powerful light on this critical issue. Her crusade is deeply personal, stemming from her sister's decades-long battle with mental illness and the tragic loss she and her family endured. Her daughter's ongoing struggles with anxiety, depression, and OCD further fuel her mission.
Inspired by their pain, Rashmi's mother co-founded the Key Clubhouse of South Florida, offering tangible support, including housing, to those facing mental health challenges. Drawing from this family history and her own incarceration experience, Rashmi argues that mental illness doesn't discriminate, affecting CEOs and entry-level employees alike in today's high-pressure business world.
Through poignant storytelling and her groundbreaking RISE process™, she reframes mental health as a leadership opportunity. Rashmi shows how creating a mentally healthy work culture isn't just humane—it's a business imperative. She demonstrates how conditions like anxiety often come with unique strengths such as attention to detail and empathy, especially relevant as younger generations enter the workforce.
By booking her keynote, you're not only investing in leadership development but also joining a mission to ensure no one suffers in silence, from the boardroom to the mailroom. Be part of making mental wellness the heart of 21st-century leadership.
OUTCOMES
“Rashmi’s story illustrates the power of humility and transformation. Rashmi is an energy giver - whether live or virtual. She reminds us that we are all humans and fallible. I would recommend Rashmi, she is one the best speakers I have ever worked with and I will work with her again!” - Damien Atkins, Former General Counsel, Hershey’s Inc.
“The most mind capturing talk ever! 100% focused and visually present. Personable and relatable” - Roshni Kadhiwala, CEO/Owner JLM Hotel Group, Asian American Hotel Owners Association
Master Storyteller, Author, Culture, Wellness, and Inclusion Advocate
Virtual Fee: $7,500
Called a “master storyteller,” Anthony McLean delivers lively presentations on Mental Health, Workplace Culture, and Storytelling for Leaders. He believes the future belongs to those who tell the best stories. His first book, All Fired Up, explores how personal well-being is the foundation for energy and success. Anthony also works in the Film & TV industry. As a screenwriter, he is currently in development on two feature films. He lives with his wife, their two kids, and an impressive collection of 90s movies.
Speaker Profile: https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/anthony-mclean
Anthony is based in Los Angeles.
Anthony McLean is a dynamic keynote speaker, mental health advocate, and expert in culture and belonging, known for his high-energy, engaging presentations. With a background in performance and public speaking, Anthony delivers insightful and practical talks that inspire professionals to cultivate resilience, foster inclusive workplaces, and prioritize mental well-being. His ability to blend research, storytelling, and humor makes his keynotes both impactful and memorable.
How can we regain our enthusiasm, recapture our joy, and get the pep back in our step at work and at home? Mental health isn’t just about managing stress—it’s about sustaining energy, clear thinking, and resilience in the face of challenges. In this dynamic, high-energy keynote, Anthony McLean brings humor, insight, and practical tools to help audiences recharge, refocus, and find more joy in their daily lives. Whether kicking off a conference or wrapping up an event, this lively session will leave attendees feeling motivated, uplifted, and ready to take action.
Learning Outcomes:
Imagine a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported, where diversity and mental wellness are not just initiatives but integral parts of the culture. Join Anthony McLean as he delves into the foundational element that bridges these two vital areas: workplace culture. Discover why a culture that values inclusion is essential for leveraging diversity, and how collective wellness habits can significantly improve workplace performance. Anthony will share practical strategies for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, helping organizations create workplaces where everyone can thrive. Through engaging stories and actionable insights, this keynote will equip you with the tools to build a healthier, more inclusive workplace culture.
Learning Outcomes
“Anthony’s workshops have had a significant impact on our school. He was equally impactful while working with parents from our community. I would wholeheartedly welcome him back anytime.” - Greg Farrell, Principal, York Region District School Board
Bianca Mabute-Louie is a keynote speaker, award-winning sociologist, and author. Her speaking, publishing, and research centers Asian Americans in the national discourse on race and politics. Her first book, UNASSIMILABLE, is available January 2025 with Harper Collins.
Virtual Fee: $7,000
Speaker Profile: https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/bianca-mabute-louie
Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/006327762X?tag=harpercollinsus-20
Bianca is based in Texas.
Bianca Mabute-Louie is an acclaimed educator, speaker, and racial justice advocate dedicated to addressing anti-Asian racism, systemic oppression, and the power of storytelling in shaping cultural identity. As a researcher and expert in Asian American history, Bianca brings a unique and critical lens to discussions on identity, resilience, and the intersectionality of race and mental health. Her keynotes inspire audiences to explore their own narratives, challenge stereotypes, and cultivate inclusive communities.
UNASSIMILABLE by Bianca Mabute-Louie is a bold and deeply personal exploration of Asian Americans who reject assimilation and instead create their own spaces of belonging.
Part manifesto, part memoir, this book challenges the traditional idea that success means blending into mainstream American society. Mabute-Louie, a scholar and activist, unpacks the history of Asian American identity, from the 19th century to today, revealing how race, class, and citizenship shape their experiences.
She begins with the San Gabriel Valley, the first Asian-majority suburb in the U.S., where immigrants thrive by building a community on their own terms rather than conforming to whiteness. She then examines predominantly white institutions, the fight for ethnic studies, and the contradictions of immigrant churches—both places of refuge and tools of colonial influence.
In the end, she calls for a rethinking of the term “Asian American,” proposing a new identity rooted in solidarity, care, and resistance. UNASSIMILABLE is a groundbreaking book that challenges readers to reconsider what it truly means to belong.
Here are suggested questions for the moderated conversation:
“Bianca is the voice that Texas needs. She hosted a workshop for our organization discussing Anti-Asian Violence and Racial Justice, and everyone LOVED it. She was an eloquent and knowledgeable speaker. Her presentation was comprehensive, insightful, and relatable. Bianca is a clear expert in this area.” - Catharine Y., Diversity & Inclusion, Asian American Bar Association of Houston
Global Communication Expert, Emmy-Award Winning Journalist, Bestselling Author, Founder & CEO of Soulcast Media
Jessica Chen is a global communication expert and sought-after speaker who has taught over 2 million people how to enhance their workplace communication skills. An Emmy-Award Winner and bestselling author of “Smart, Not Loud,” she empowers individuals from “Quiet Culture” backgrounds to stand out without being aggressive. As the Founder & CEO of Soulcast Media, she collaborates with top organizations, including Google and Microsoft, to elevate communication standards and foster diverse voices in the workplace.
Virtual Fee: $10k - Will negotiate to $7,000
Jessica is based in Irvine, California
Speaker Profile: https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/jessica-chen
Jessica Chen is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, CEO of Soulcast Media, and a globally recognized expert in business communication and executive presence. Through her work, she has helped professionals from Fortune 500 companies develop confidence, leadership presence, and impactful communication skills. As a first-generation Asian-American, Jessica understands the challenges that AAPI professionals face in the workplace, including cultural barriers, self-doubt, and the struggle to be heard. Her dynamic keynotes provide practical tools for effective leadership, assertive communication, and career growth—making her an excellent fit for Respawn Entertainment’s AAPI Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Event.
Jessica has a number of keynotes that we can recommended, depending on your event goals. Highlighting two of them here:
In a fast-paced world, working hard is expected. However, what’s less talked about is the need to highlight your genius and advocate for yourself and your ideas. The result? Better collaboration, ideas, and business outcomes. In this session, Jessica will inspire the audience to build the confidence to advocate for their ideas using the ACCT Framework and how to showcase their wins.
In this inspiring talk, Jessica will take the audience on a journey so they can adopt a global mindset for success. Touching on building cultural awareness to communicating across nationalities and generations, this session will equipped audience members so they’ll know what to consider, what to say, and how to say it with tact.
"Jessica is a dynamic speaker who is both inspirational and educational. She is an expert in communication and she has a profound understanding of business solutions. Jessica is amazing and captivated our audience. They walked away with actionable strategies to succeed in the workplace!" - Mattel
“Jessica’s talk was so relatable that I found myself nodding along in agreement as she shared her personal struggles and triumphs. She made me realize that advocating for myself in the workplace is not just a necessary skill, but also an act of self-care and self-respect. Her passion and expertise are truly remarkable, and I can say with certainty that her talk was one of the best I have ever attended.” - Sage
“Jessica facilitated her Advocating for Yourself workshop and we received amazing feedback from ourattendees! Not only did this session offer an opportunity for our community to share their personal experiences in a safe space, but we all also walked away with a tangible framework with actionable steps to build more confidence and navigate more challenging conversations.” - GumGum
Actor, Comedian, Activist
D’Lo (he/they) is a queer/transgender Tamil-Sri Lankan-American actor/writer/comedian whose work range includes stand-up comedy, solo theater, plays, films and music production, poetry, and spoken word.
Virtual Fee: $7,000
D'Lo is based in Los Angeles
Speaker Profile: https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/dlo
D’Lo is a Tamil Sri Lankan-American actor, writer, comedian, and speaker whose work explores the intersections of race, gender, identity, and mental health. As a groundbreaking artist and activist, D’Lo’s performances and keynotes are infused with humor, personal storytelling, and social commentary, making complex topics accessible and engaging. With a career spanning TV, film, theater, and advocacy, D’Lo brings a unique and powerful perspective on representation, resilience, and belonging. His ability to blend entertainment with education makes him an ideal speaker for Respawn Entertainment’s AAPI Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Event.
Using stand-up and storytelling, D’Lo shares his observations and recollections of being a queer boy/stud/transmasculine person who grew up in a strict immigrant family, and his journey as a young queer person into queer adulthood. On his route to learning how to exist unapologetically, he is also confronted with the question of what it means to embody a beautiful masculinity that upholds his feminist politics.