For Clients and Event Organizers, you can think of us as an extension of your events team. With our vast network and knowledge of trusted and vetted speakers, we do all the heavy lifting to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey in your talent booking process.
About the event
The Stanislaus County Leadership Summit is a premier gathering designed to equip leaders and managers across all county departments with essential skills in leadership development, innovation, strategic vision, team building, and personal growth. This event serves as a platform for insightful discussions, networking, and learning opportunities that empower leaders to drive meaningful change within their departments.
Aligned with Stanislaus County’s Core Values—earning trust, encouraging innovation, fostering partnerships, valuing individuals, and delivering results—we propose the following world-class speakers, each offering impactful strategies to elevate leadership effectiveness.
Each speaker can deliver a dynamic keynote session, with the option to include an interactive discussion or activity to maximize audience engagement.
Event Date: August 15th, 2025
Emotional Intelligence Expert, Performance and Leadership Expert
Speaker Fees:
Keynote: $15,000
Workshop [including Keynote]: $20,000, as described [60-90 minutes workshop, roundtable, interactive session] - The interactive activities would include self-work, discussion at the tables, group debriefs, 1:1 interaction where BilI gets people up and moving around (depending on room setup), video examples and 2-3 “fireside chat” interactions with the senior leader. We would want there to be interactions in the first 60-75 minutes as that’s how humans learn best. That includes customization and design time, as well as his Culture survey prior to the session, if you chose to do that.
Flat Travel Fee [would be in addition]: $2000 flat travel fee (for Speaker to book and pay for round-trip airfare, home city ground transportation, meals and incidentals). Client to book and pay for professional car service in event city and up to two nights at a 4-5 star hotel.
Illinois
Speaker Highlights
Bill Benjamin Sizzle Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJGTYQzCqZ8&t=9s
Speaker Profile w/ Keynote Topics - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/bill-benjamin
Bill Benjamin is an expert in Emotional Intelligence, Performance, and Leadership with advanced degrees in Mathematics and Computer Science and 25 years of business experience. He shares his early career struggles with leadership under pressure and teaches practical techniques for improvement. As a partner at the Institute for Health and Human Potential (IHHP), Bill contributes to creating high-performance, high-accountability cultures through the Last 8% Culture System. His scientific approach and dynamic style resonate with analytical audiences like surgeons, U.S. Marines, and NASA engineers, making him a sought-after speaker.
Why Bill Benjamin?
Bill Benjamin brings a scientific and evidence-based approach to leadership by combining insights from neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and psychology. As a leader and expert in the science of high performance, he teaches managers how to stay composed under pressure, make smarter decisions, and build emotionally intelligent teams. His focus on earning trust, valuing people, and building effective partnerships aligns perfectly with Stanislaus County’s leadership philosophy. Bill’s engaging, practical, and research-backed presentations give leaders the tools to enhance emotional intelligence, foster strong relationships, and improve team dynamics.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Leading with Emotional Intelligence – Understand how EQ drives leadership effectiveness, from decision-making to team motivation.
✔ Thriving Under Pressure – Gain science-backed techniques to stay calm, focused, and effective in high-stakes situations.
✔ Building Resilient & High-Performing Teams – Learn how to foster psychological safety and trust, helping teams navigate challenges with confidence.
✔ Enhancing Decision-Making with Neuroscience – Discover how brain function impacts judgment, adaptability, and leadership choices, leading to more effective outcomes.
“I attribute much of my personal success to what Bill taught me early in my career and leadership journey. From a meeting planner’s perspective, Bill is a dream presenter – easy to work with, humble, and wants to be part of the team to deliver excellence. He took the responsibility to ‘exceed expectations’ as seriously as I did as the meeting host. Bill lives what he researches and teaches making personal/professional relationships so very enriching.” —KRISTEN SPRIGGS, Chief Member Services Officer at ASQ
"The session was great and a picture perfect example of a keynote address! It was captivating/entertaining, started the entire conference by establishing a tone and hit amongst several of our key themes and takeaways for this year's forum. Thanks again for the day... and also the professionalism you brought to the table, the willingness to partner with us in our preparation processes, etc. Very easy to work with. Best wishes to you for continued success! Reach out anytime!" —Scott M., Managing Director - Core Membership at FOX
Global Expert on Leadership and Culture, Forbes Global Coaches Council Member, Gallup Certified Strengths Coach
Keynote Fee: $15,000
Workshop [including Keynote]: $20,000, as described [60-90 minutes workshop, roundtable, interactive session] - If we look at "Cultivating an Ideation Culture" as the main keynote I can talk through the process of ideation. On the back of that I have a “Developing a Team of Problem Solvers” workshop that the ideation process if one of the four quadrants of. We can give them a problem solving framework and then run an activity where participants work in groups to tackle some of the big business problems (or individual problems) and then use the ideation process to come up with new ways forward. I give each group 3 options of how they can tackle the problem creatively and they will walk away with those tools to use in their every day job.
Flat Travel Fee [would be in addition]: $2500 Flat Travel Fee to cover RT Airfare, Ground Transfers, Hotel in addition, up to 3-4 nights provided by Organizer
London
Speaker Highlights
Shane Hatton - Professional Speaker - Global expert on Culture and Leadership - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dnYa8N3-wo
Where does leadership happen? - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6O9bdPoU6GI&t=45s
Speaker Profile w/ Keynote Topics - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/shane-michael-hatton
Shane Michael Hatton is a highly sought-after leadership and culture expert who specializes in helping leaders build high-performing teams through trust, clear communication, and authenticity. As a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and a member of the Forbes Global Coaches Council, Shane has worked with organizations worldwide to develop leaders who inspire, engage, and drive positive change.
Why Shane Hatton?
Shane’s insights are directly aligned with Stanislaus County’s focus on trust, innovation, and partnership. His expertise in leadership communication and people-centered strategies helps leaders create environments where teams feel valued, heard, and motivated to excel.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Building Trust-Based Leadership – Learn how to establish credibility and cultivate psychological safety, creating a workplace where employees feel empowered to share ideas and take initiative.
✔ Mastering Leadership Communication – Develop the skills to effectively communicate vision and direction, ensuring alignment and clarity within teams.
✔ Navigating Change with Confidence – Gain practical tools to lead through uncertainty and transformation, fostering resilience and adaptability in teams.
✔ Fostering a Culture of Innovation – Encourage a mindset of continuous improvement by removing barriers to creativity and allowing innovation to thrive within departments.
“I had the pleasure of working with Shane at the Public Sector Comms Leaders conference where I saw him speak. Not only is Shane exceptionally entertaining as a speaker, but he is also extremely informative. As someone who works with coaches and speakers on the day-to-day, I couldn't recommend Shane more. He was the highlight of the conference.” - Helen Turnbull, Production Manager
“The energy was electrifying in the room and every time that he comes he brings something new that you can take and that you can implement straight away. We’ve had a range of people reach out and ask ‘how can I get more from Shane’ and so we’ve implemented more programs that have sold out immediately. Shane is somebody who you can get more and more out of the more he understands your organisation.” - Dan Hillier, Head of Health and Partner Engagement – Terry White Chemmart
Top Growth Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Expert in Leadership & Business Growth
Keynote: $15,000
Workshop [including Keynote]: $20,000 as described [60-90 minutes workshop, roundtable, interactive session]; Frankie included information about the session types in his custom topic, including Interactive Activities, Workshop Learnings, etc. - See custom topic link HERE.
Flat Travel Fee [would be in addition]: $2,000 travel buyout and plus hotel in the venue city
Florida
Speaker Highlights
Frankie Russo - Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXE-MmD6ZBI
Warsaw Growth Summit Event Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8SFyOqUOLc
Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/frankie-russo
Custom Speaking Topic - https://gravitystanislaus.frankie-russo.com/
Frankie Russo is a visionary entrepreneur, leadership expert, and two-time bestselling author known for helping organizations drive innovation, build high-performance cultures, and maximize leadership potential. As the founder of multiple successful companies and the author of "Breaking WHY" and "The Art of Why," Frankie has spent years researching what drives individuals and organizations to achieve breakthrough success. His engaging and high-energy presentations leave audiences inspired, motivated, and equipped with actionable strategies to lead with purpose.
Why Frankie Russo?
Frankie’s expertise in transformational leadership, purpose-driven success, and business innovation perfectly aligns with Stanislaus County’s Core Values, particularly in encouraging innovation, delivering results, and fostering partnerships. His ability to blend strategic leadership insights with real-world application ensures leaders walk away with practical tools to elevate their impact.
Key Takeaways:
✔ The Power of Purpose-Driven Leadership – Learn how to define, articulate, and activate your "WHY" to inspire teams and create meaningful impact.
✔ Building a Culture of Innovation & Growth – Discover strategies to foster creativity, resilience, and a high-performance mindset within your organization.
✔ Breaking Through Limitations – Explore techniques for overcoming challenges, adapting to change, and unlocking peak leadership potential.
✔ Leading with Vision & Strategy – Gain insights on how to develop a clear vision, set strategic goals, and execute with confidence to drive results.
"Frankie’s 'Love Your Weird' presentation offered our team transformative insights and practical strategies for creating a culture of Continuous Growth. His impact is long-lasting." -John Zeigler, Chief Marketing Officer, Sinclair Inc.
"Innovate South attendees loved Frankie's talk on 'Love Your Weird.' He inspires true leadership and a Growth culture." -Destin Ortego, Innovate South Conference
"Frankie’s speech was the highlight of our annual event, offering actionable inspiration and insights for their organizations." -Louise Leopold, Executive, Digital Dealer Conference
Bestselling Author of "The Third Door" | Innovation & Resilience Speaker
Keynote Fee: $25,000
Workshop [including Keynote]: $40,000, as described [60-90 minutes workshop, roundtable, interactive session] - Alex has provided his new speaker packet that expands on his offerings including Workshop options.
Flat Travel Fee [would be in addition]: $2000 Buyout for Air and Ground in Origin City, Hotel (up to 2 nights), meals and ground in event city is the Organizer's responsibility.
Los Angeles, CA
Speaker Highlights
Growth and Perseverance Keynote Speaker, Bestselling Author of The Third Door - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alJNKEu-3CU&t=89s
Speaker Profile w/ Keynote Topics - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/alex-banayan
Alex Banayan is an award-winning author and business speaker, renowned for uncovering the mindsets of the world’s most successful leaders. His book The Third Door explores how iconic figures overcame obstacles and seized opportunities, offering valuable lessons in resilience, innovation, and leadership.
Why Alex Banayan?
Alex’s insights on perseverance, creative problem-solving, and leadership innovation align perfectly with Stanislaus County’s emphasis on innovation and partnerships.
Key Takeaways:
✔ The Third Door Mindset – Discover how leaders can find unconventional solutions to challenges and open new doors of opportunity.
✔ Harnessing Resilience & Adaptability – Learn strategies to overcome setbacks and turn adversity into advantage.
✔ Developing an Innovation-First Culture – Inspire teams to think differently, challenge norms, and drive creative solutions.
“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
Leadership & Performance Expert | Former NFL & NBA Executive [49ers, Cowboys, Lakers]
Keynote Fee: $25,000
Workshop [including Keynote]: $35,000, as described [60-90 minutes workshop, roundtable, interactive session].
Flat Travel Fee [would be in addition]: $2500 travel fee plus hotel
Paul is traveling but shared this. Below is a bulleted list of high level themes and topics that he lead during workshops, whether as standalone experiences, or post-keynote.
With that, here are the themes I'm most frequently requested to deliver workshops on:
- Know What Inspires You: an exercise for deepening personal and team connection,
- What Great Leaders Do: a behavioral training activity to identify and integrate 'best in class' leadership techniques to critical situations,
- Mastery of the 9 WHY's: a masterclass for connecting individual and team purpose to maximize empathy, authenticity, and alignment,
- Values in Action: a behavioral and tactical formula to connect who you are (values) to what you stand for (beliefs) to how you show up (decisions and actions),
- People 360 Blueprint: best practices around talent recruitment, engagement, and retention - learned from my award winning Talent Academy at the San Francisco
- 49ers,Cultivating Grit and Navigating Change: mindset shifts to navigate uncertainty and adversity with unshakable confidence,
- Scaling Championship Culture: how to establish a standard of high performance, growth, and success across teams and organizations,
- Building High Trust Teams: lessons learned from facilitating workshops with SEALs for years that are universally applicable to executives and leaders,
- Better Decisions Faster: leading with clarity and confidence while overcoming paralysis to make fast and effective decisions,
- The Power of Playing Offense: a 5 pillar leadership framework that spans across purpose, resilience, empowerment, goals, and impact
Los Angeles, CA
Speaker Highlights
Paul Epstein Win Monday 2024 Sizzle Reel | Award-Winning Leadership and Sales Speaker - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9Zh1hawIw0&t=53s
Speaker Profile w/ Keynote Topics - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/paul-epstein
Paul Epstein is a former NFL & NBA executive turned leadership coach, specializing in high-performance mindset, decision-making, and team leadership. He has worked with some of the world’s most successful sports organizations, helping leaders build championship-level cultures.
Why Paul Epstein?
Paul’s insights into high-performance leadership and resilience align with Stanislaus County’s value of delivering results. His engaging storytelling and actionable strategies equip leaders to make better decisions, stay agile, and drive impact.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Leading with Confidence & Clarity – Learn decision-making frameworks that reduce hesitation and empower leaders to take bold, strategic action.
✔ Building a Resilient & Winning Culture – Understand how to cultivate team dynamics that mirror elite sports organizations for sustained excellence.
✔ Adapting Leadership in Times of Change – Discover how to navigate uncertainty with agility and optimism, ensuring teams stay focused and productive.
✔ Maximizing Performance Through Mindset Shifts – Explore the neuroscience behind high performance and motivation, unlocking new levels of leadership effectiveness.
"Paul’s work with our management team has been invaluable, inspiring individuals to find their purpose and become more fulfilled leaders. The impact on our culture has been tremendous and the lessons from his workshops have become a core part of our organizational DNA." —Matthew Lehman, Former General Manager, Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
"Paul’s keynote exceeded all my expectations and my team was profoundly moved by his authenticity and heart-based storytelling. He helped Amazon understand the core values at the center of leadership such as compassion, character, and trust. Point blank, Paul’s the best speaker we’ve ever had!" —Oumar Diagne, Amazon, Finance Director
Leadership & Future of Work Strategist, Bestselling Author
Keynote Fee: $30,000
Workshop [including Keynote]: $45,000, as described [60-90 minutes workshop, roundtable, interactive session]. Seth has provided a couple of docs which will outline the topic and workshop offering.
Flat Travel Fee [would be in addition]: $2500 Buyout to cover flights, home-city ground transportation, meals and incidentals: Additionally, client books and pays for event-city ground transportation and hotel accommodations
- The Heart of Leadership - CLICK HERE
- Breakout Session - CLICK HERE
Los Angeles, CA
Speaker Highlights
Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ED8CqDIQHd8
Speaker Profile - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/seth-mattison
Seth Mattison is a globally recognized expert on workforce trends, leadership transformation, and the future of work. As the founder of FutureSight Labs, Seth advises top organizations on how to navigate change, develop resilient leaders, and foster high-performing teams. His research and insights help leaders adapt to evolving workplace dynamics and build cultures of trust, innovation, and engagement.
Why Seth Mattison?
Seth’s expertise in leadership evolution and cultural transformation aligns with Stanislaus County’s commitment to innovation and results. His engaging style and research-driven insights provide leaders with practical strategies to lead effectively in a fast-changing world.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Leading in the Age of Disruption – Gain actionable insights on how to thrive in times of change, uncertainty, and workplace transformation.
✔ Building High-Trust, High-Performance Cultures – Learn proven strategies to foster trust, psychological safety, and collaboration in teams.
✔ Future-Proofing Leadership Skills – Understand the critical leadership competencies required to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving workforce.
✔ Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders – Discover how to engage, inspire, and develop emerging leaders to drive long-term success.
“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
Bestselling Author, Purpose-Driven Leadership Expert
Keynote Fee: $20,000
Workshop [including Keynote]: $25,000, as described [60-90 minutes workshop, roundtable, interactive session]. Matthew has provided his Speaker Packet, which briefly has a workshop section on page 3.
Flat Travel Fee [would be in addition]: $2000 flat travel buyout to cover travel and expenses
Los Angeles, CA
Speaker Highlights
Matthew Emerzian | 2025 Keynote Speaker Reel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpSxfnuBtm4
Speaker Profile w/ Keynote Topics - https://www.gravityspeakers.com/speakers/matthew-emerzian
Matthew Emerzian is a social impact leader and expert on purpose-driven leadership, dedicated to helping organizations build workplace cultures rooted in meaning, connection, and well-being. His work has been featured in major media, and his books and programs inspire leaders to foster a sense of belonging and fulfillment in their teams.
Why Matthew Emerzian?
Matthew’s expertise in creating cultures of engagement and purpose aligns perfectly with Stanislaus County’s value of believing each person matters. His insights help leaders enhance workplace morale, motivation, and collaboration.
Key Takeaways:
✔ The Power of Purpose in Leadership – Understand how aligning personal and organizational purpose fuels motivation and retention.
✔ Creating a Culture of Belonging – Learn strategies to foster a workplace where every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered.
✔ Leading with Empathy & Authenticity – Develop leadership skills that prioritize connection, emotional intelligence, and trust.
✔ Turning Workplace Challenges into Opportunities – Gain practical tools to navigate workplace dynamics and inspire resilience.
"HE CHALLENGED US TO THINK DIFFERENTLY AND MADE US BELIEVE THAT MATTERING IS POSSIBLE FOR ALL OF US." - Lenny Comma, CEO, Jack in the box
"Matt is the thought leader of humanness and the creator of the mattering movement." - Anna Connell, VP Global Sales, Servicenow.
"We've worked with Matt for over 7 years and he continues to be a game changer for us." - Kathy Quintana, EVP & COO, HUB