Our speakers are a cross-section of the brightest minds in the generative AI scene.
Join us for a transformative experience featuring more than 30 top-tier AI speakers, panelists, instructors, thought leaders, and industry pioneers in the AI field. Stay tuned as we continually expand our lineup, bringing you the brightest minds and the latest insights in AI. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from and network with the best in the industry.
Elatia Abate
Elatia Abate, creator of the Future of Now, is an entrepreneur with a mission to revolutionize the practice of leadership to empower humanity in the Age of AI. Named a Forbes leading female futurist, she is a globally recognized expert on the futures of work and strategy and currently serves as the Futurist in Residence for Paylocity.
Her Future-Led Leadership™️ learning and development content has been utilized in organizations including Verizon, UniGroup RMI – Rocky Mountain Institute, Grupo Globo, CME Group, Arcus Power, GMAC (Graduate Management Admissions Council), and The College of William and Mary Raymond A. Mason School of Business.
Elatia is a sought-after keynote speaker on the topics of the future of work, leadership and resilience, sharing her message for audiences of tens and auditoriums of thousands for including, Citi, NY Life, VRBO, Deloitte, Honeywell, Belcorp, and SHRM, among many others. She has a TEDx talk titled, “Pioneering the Future of Work.”
Abate is the author of the career design book, Build a Career You Love. She has been featured in Fast Company, Esquire, Chief, Forbes, Exame, and La Voz, as well as in work with Trevor Noah and Tony Robbins. She was the only woman to contribute to the Tony Robbins 2020 Business Resiliency Expert series.
She is an instructor for LinkedIn Learning, in the Continuing Studies Department of Stanford University, and the Executive Education Department of The University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business.
Mark Heaps
Mark Heaps is the Chief Technology Evangelist at Groq®, a company creating the world's first Language Processing Unit (LPU), providing exceptional speed performance for AI inference workloads that can boost speeds up to 10x compared to NVIDIA’s GPUs. Mark is a longtime technology evangelist who has worked with Adobe, Google, Apple, and others on various projects ranging from digital imaging to AI systems used in some of the most popular applications today.
He is passionate about democratizing AI to advance human agency and loves exploring how end-users of the next generation of technology will interact with conversational AI. Mark is also a die-hard foodie obsessed with finding the world's best pizza – so far a hole-in-the-wall joint in Croatia (is there any other kind?) is in the lead.
For Imagine AI Live NYC, Groq is sponsoring a workshop for enterprises, developers, and builders focused on “Getting Started Building Your Own Apps” on the Groq Cloud AI platform. Come witness first hand how fast AI applications can be deployed in the Groq Cloud.
Jiquan Ngiam
Jiquan Ngiam is the Co-Founder and CEO of Lutra AI, a trailblazing startup that is revolutionizing workflow automation through the power of AI.
With a background in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon University, Jiquan was in Andrew Ng's machine learning lab at Stanford University during his PhD and has established himself on the frontier of thought leadership in the AI industry.
His extensive experience spans from being a Senior Staff Engineer at Google Brain to serving as the Director of Engineering at Coursera, where he played an instrumental role in building the platform from the ground up.
At the helm of Lutra AI, Ngiam is spearheading the development of an innovative AI-driven platform that empowers users to automate complex workflows using simple, natural language instructions—no coding expertise required. By seamlessly integrating with popular tools like Google Workspace, Slack, and Airtable, Lutra AI enables businesses to quickly deploy automations that extract, categorize, and enrich data from diverse sources, transforming manual processes into intelligent, efficient workflows.
Prepare to be inspired as Ngiam takes the stage at Imagine AI Live IMPACT New York, where he will share insights into the transformative potential of AI-powered workflow automation and demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of Lutra AI's platform.
Bindu Reddy
Bindu Reddy is the co-founder and CEO of Abacus.AI, a platform to help enterprises scale AI on internal data, and is set to return to Imagine AI Live New York "Impact" event as a featured speaker and sponsor of its first-ever workshop on AI Agents. Known for her groundbreaking talks and discourse on LLMs on social media, and appearances online and on leading podcasts, Bindu’s team will lead an exclusive workshop on AI Agent development for business leaders. This workshop will dive into leveraging state-of-the-art AI models to deploy custom chatLLM models on enterprise data at scale, offering attendees invaluable insights into the practical applications of AI in business.
Before founding Abacus.AI, Bindu held significant roles in major tech with AWS and Google. As the General Manager for AI Verticals at Amazon Web Services (AWS), she pioneered the launch of Amazon Personalize and Amazon Forecast, enabling organizations to create bespoke deep-learning models. Prior to AWS, Bindu co-founded Post Intelligence, a deep-learning company acquired by Uber, and served as the Head of Product for Google Apps, managing popular products such as Google Docs, Spreadsheets, and Blogger.
Bindu's impressive academic credentials include a Master’s degree from Dartmouth College and a B.Tech degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai. Under her leadership, Abacus.AI has raised substantial funding from top-tier investors like Index Ventures and Coatue, reflecting her commitment to advancing AI technology.
Join Bindu Reddy at Imagine AI Live NYC to explore the future of AI in enterprise applications and gain practical knowledge on developing and deploying AI agents that can revolutionize your business operations.
Gemma Galdon-Clavell
Dr. Gemma Galdón-Clavell is a trailblazing force in the realm of AI ethics and algorithmic accountability, reshaping the landscape of responsible technology. As the founder and CEO of Eticas.ai she has pioneered the world's first algorithmic auditing company, revolutionizing how we approach AI governance. Her groundbreaking Algorithmic Audit Framework has become the gold standard for ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI systems, earning the trust of major international institutions including the UN, European Commission, and OECD.
A visionary leader with a Ph.D. in surveillance, security, and urban policy, Dr. Galdón-Clavell bridges the gap between academic rigor and real-world impact. Her multidisciplinary expertise has positioned her as a sought-after advisor to the United Nations and European Union on applied ethics and Responsible AI. Under her guidance, Eticas has expanded into a powerhouse spanning social services, healthcare, finance, government, education, and cybersecurity, translating complex ethical principles into actionable technical specifications.
Recognized as a leading voice in tech ethics by Forbes Magazine, Dr. Galdón-Clavell's influence extends far beyond the boardroom. As an Ashoka Fellow and finalist for the EU's prize for women innovators, she continues to inspire the next generation of ethical tech leaders. Her work not only protects individuals in an increasingly AI-driven world but also ensures that technological advancements serve humanity as a whole. With her unique blend of academic insight, policy experience, and entrepreneurial spirit, Dr. Galdón-Clavell is not just predicting the future of AI – she's actively shaping it.
Dmitry Shapiro
Dmitry Shapiro is the CEO and Co-Founder of MindStudio, a company on a mission to democratize AI through its innovative no-code platform. With a storied career that includes roles as the CTO of Myspace Music, founding multiple venture-backed startups, and time spent in AI at Google, Shapiro is a seasoned entrepreneur and a visionary in the tech space. MindStudio is a groundbreaking no-code platform designed to revolutionize the way AI applications are developed, making it accessible for a broader audience to create and distribute AI-powered applications involving multiple LLMs and integrations without the need for specialized knowledge in programming or machine learning.
Dmitry and his team have revolutionized the way businesses approach AI, creating a no-code platform that empowers professionals from all industries to build sophisticated AI applications without any coding knowledge. His passion for accessible technology and user-centric design has positioned MindStudio as a game-changer in the AI space, enabling companies of all sizes to harness the power of artificial intelligence for their specific needs.
At the Imagine AI Live IMPACT New York conference, MindStudio will be leading an exclusive workshop titled "Unleashing AI Potential: Building Custom AI Solutions for Your Business." This hands-on session will guide participants through the process of creating tailored AI applications using MindStudio's intuitive platform. Attendees will learn how to integrate multiple AI models, incorporate proprietary data, and design automated workflows that can transform their business operations.
Whether you're a startup founder, a corporate executive, or an innovation leader, this workshop will equip you with the skills to leverage AI technology effectively, driving efficiency and innovation within your organization. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Dmitry and the MindStudio team as they reveal the secrets to building powerful, customized AI solutions without writing a single line of code.
Chinedu Echeruo
Chinedu Echeruo, a visionary entrepreneur and founder of the Beloved Ecosystem, is revolutionizing the way startups are built and communities are empowered. At the heart of this ecosystem is DICE, an innovative organizational model that leverages human intelligence and artificial intelligence (AI) to unlock collective potential for innovation and problem-solving. With a passion for leveraging technology to create positive social change, Echeruo is dedicated to uplifting distressed communities and fostering inclusive economic growth, starting with building 10 AI-powered startups in Newark, New Jersey.
At the core of the Beloved Ecosystem is Talented, an AI-powered apprenticeship platform designed to empower 5 million young adults (ages 18-24) in distressed communities nationwide by building pathways to opportunity. By integrating artificial intelligence, Talented streamlines recruiting, skill development, mentorship, and comprehensive social services to improve job placement rates and ensure the accessibility of apprenticeships in these communities.
Echeruo's entrepreneurial journey began with a deeply personal challenge—a fear of getting lost that stemmed from his childhood in Nigeria and early days navigating the complex maze of New York City. This frustration led him to create HopStop, a pioneering navigation app used in over 350 cities worldwide, which was acquired by Apple in 2013. He also founded Tripology, a lead-generation service for the travel industry, which was later acquired by Rand McNally and later owned by USA Today.
Prior to his entrepreneurial ventures, Echeruo served as a key member of the investment team at AM Investment Partners, a $500 million hedge fund focused on convertible bond arbitrage. He began his career at J.P. Morgan Chase, working in the Mergers and Acquisitions and Leveraged Finance groups, where he was involved in various M&A, financing, and private equity transactions.
Inspired by recent breakthroughs in fields like statistical physics and complex systems theory, Echeruo has developed a novel framework for organizational design that aims to help people achieve their goals. By building AI-powered companies that are co-owned and operated by the communities they serve, Echeruo seeks to demonstrate a more empathetic and sustainable model for wealth creation and economic empowerment.
Echeruo holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and graduated with honors from Syracuse University. Through his work and vision, he aims to build vibrant ecosystems that optimize for the collective good.
France Hoang
France Hoang is a visionary entrepreneur and thought leader at the intersection of AI, national security, and business innovation. As the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Boodle AI, he's revolutionizing how teams collaborate with AI, unlocking unprecedented productivity gains for enterprises across industries. A combat-decorated veteran and former Associate White House Counsel, France brings a unique perspective on harnessing cutting-edge technology to solve complex challenges.
With over two decades of experience founding and scaling multimillion-dollar companies, France has an unparalleled track record of turning disruptive ideas into transformative realities. His latest venture, Boodle, is empowering organizations to seamlessly integrate generative AI into their workflows, resulting in up to 40% increases in team efficiency and a 3x acceleration in innovation cycles. France's insights on overcoming data governance hurdles and fostering AI-human synergy have made him a sought-after advisor to Fortune 500 executives and government leaders alike.
At Imagine AI Live IMPACT New York, France will explore the game-changing potential of work team-based AI collaboration, sharing real-world case studies and practical strategies for enterprise-wide adoption. Attendees will gain invaluable insights on navigating the human and technical challenges of AI integration, from addressing employee concerns to implementing robust data security measures.
Tricia Maia
Tricia Maia is a mission-driven product executive currently serving as the Head of Product at TED Conferences. She has been instrumental in integrating AI technology to enhance the accessibility and reach of TED Talks. Under her leadership, TED launched AI-dubbed TED Talks, a groundbreaking initiative that translates and dubs talks into multiple languages while preserving the original speaker's voice and emotional delivery.
This project aims to make TED's inspiring content more accessible to a global audience, addressing the needs of international viewers who prefer native language content over subtitles. Before joining TED, Tricia held key positions at AlphaSights and Verizon, where she led product management and digital strategy initiatives.
At AlphaSights, she directed the Product & Design team, leveraging industry data and proprietary technology to connect clients with essential insights. At Verizon, she established and drove the consumer mobile strategy for Verizon Fios. Her diverse experience spans startups to Fortune 15 companies, showcasing her versatility and expertise in product management and digital strategy.
Tricia holds a Master of Science degree in Management of Information Systems & Innovation from the London School of Economics and a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Political Economy from Fordham University. Recognized for her contributions to technology and business, she was awarded the Innovators & Disruptors Award by America On Tech.
As a speaker of multiple languages, Tricia is a passionate advocate for digital inclusion and human-centered design. Her insights and experiences make her a valuable speaker and panelist at Imagine AI Live IMPACT New York, where she will share her vision for the future of AI in product development and its potential to transform human experiences.
Edward Brawer
Edward Brawer is the founder and CEO of PodcastAI, a groundbreaking platform that automates the entire podcast production process. With a diverse background spanning biology, software development, and entrepreneurship, Edward's journey is a testament to his passion for innovation and his ability to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the tech industry.
PodcastAI, a prominent company in Jason Calacanis's LAUNCH portfolio, is revolutionizing the podcasting landscape by leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to streamline and enhance every aspect of content creation and distribution. From transcription and chapter generation to monetization and audience engagement, PodcastAI empowers podcasters to focus on their craft while the platform handles the rest.
At the upcoming Imagine AI Live - Impact New York event, Edward will share his insights on "Harnessing AI for Transformative Content Creation and Distribution." Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on how businesses can utilize AI-powered tools to optimize their content workflows, personalize user experiences, and drive unprecedented growth in the digital media space. With his unique perspective and proven track record, Edward is poised to inspire and guide enterprises in navigating the AI-driven future of content.
Eric Vaughan
Eric Vaughan, CEO of IgniteTech and GFI Software, is known as “The Gen AI CEO”, and a visionary leader at the forefront of the AI revolution. With over 30 years of experience in the technology industry, Vaughan has founded and led three software companies, demonstrating a deep understanding of the transformative power of technology.
Vaughan has become a vocal advocate for AI-first thinking, recognizing the urgency of this paradigm shift for businesses. He believes that AI is not just an exciting development but a necessity for companies to remain relevant in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. His passion for AI is not driven by mere excitement but by a deep-seated belief that if businesses do not adapt, they risk being left behind.
Vaughan's commitment to AI transformation is evident in his bold initiative of "AI Mondays," where the entire company dedicates one day solely to Gen AI—no calls, no visits, just pure innovation. This initiative is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of AI and his commitment to driving its adoption within his companies.
Vaughan's journey is a testament to the urgency of adopting AI-first thinking and the transformative power of AI in business. His leadership and vision have positioned IgniteTech and GFI Software at the vanguard of the AI revolution, demonstrating the potential of AI to transform businesses and industries.
Nathaniel Whittemore
Nathaniel Whittemore is a visionary entrepreneur, educator, and leading voice in the world of AI as the Founder and CEO of Superintelligent. Whittemore is on a mission to democratize AI education and empower individuals to harness the power of this transformative technology. Through practical, hands-on tutorials and a vibrant online community, Superintelligent has quickly become the go-to platform for anyone looking to learn and apply AI in their personal and professional lives.
With a diverse background spanning venture capital, social entrepreneurship, and education, Whittemore brings a unique perspective to the AI landscape. He has been a Principal at Learn Capital, a founding team member of Change.org, and the driving force behind groundbreaking education initiatives at Northwestern University. His passion for making emerging technologies accessible and impactful has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the AI space.
In addition to his work at Superintelligent, Whittemore is the host of the highly influential tech podcast,"The AI Daily Brief" where he delivers insightful analysis and engaging discussions on the latest developments in artificial intelligence, from creative applications and industry disruptions to philosophical questions and societal implications.
At Imagine AI Live IMPACT New York, Whittemore and Superintelligent will lead a workshop on AI Use Cases, showcasing the small but powerful ways in which people derive value from AI in their daily lives.
Shawn Wilkinson
Shawn Wilkinson is a visionary entrepreneur and innovator at the forefront of the AI revolution, and the Founder and CEO of Prodia, a new AI Inference cloud platform for image generation at scale. Shawn is pioneering new frontiers in artificial intelligence accessibility and application. His journey from creating pillows as an 8-year-old entrepreneur to disrupting cloud storage with Storj, and now shaping the future of AI with Prodia, exemplifies his relentless pursuit of transformative technologies.
A graduate of Morehouse College with a degree in Computer Science, Shawn's career has been marked by audacious goals and remarkable achievements. At just 26, he raised $30 million in 7 days for Storj, challenging tech giants in the cloud storage arena. His work has not only pushed technological boundaries but also opened doors for diverse innovators in the blockchain and AI spaces, embodying his belief that fresh talent and ideas should know no barriers.
Alongside co-founders Monty Anderson and Mikhail Avady, Shawn is leading Prodia to democratize AI inference capabilities for developers and businesses worldwide. His unique blend of technical expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and visionary leadership continues to inspire a new generation of technologists. Shawn's insights on the intersection of AI, blockchain, and cloud technologies offer a glimpse into a future where innovation is accessible to all, promising to reshape industries and empower creators across the globe.
Chris Chang
Chris Chang is the Co-Founder and CEO of Gradient AI, a company that specializes in providing advanced AI development platforms for enterprises. Prior to founding Gradient, Chris held significant leadership roles at several major tech companies. He was the Director of Product at Netflix, where he led the Studio AI team, creating and implementing AI strategies for Netflix’s $15 billion studio production organization. He also led AI/ML organizations at Pinterest and Facebook, bringing a wealth of experience in developing and deploying AI technologies.
Chris began his career in finance, working as a Financial Analyst at Houlihan Lokey and a Senior Investment Associate at Sansome Partners. He holds dual bachelor's degrees in Finance and Computer Science, and a Master's degree in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Pennsylvania.
Under his leadership, Gradient AI has grown rapidly, securing significant funding and building a robust team of engineers, researchers, and product developers. The company focuses on making AI accessible to enterprises, enabling them to deploy customized large language models (LLMs) that leverage proprietary data for improved performance and efficiency across various industries, including healthcare and financial services.
Chris is also an active speaker in the AI community, contributing to discussions on ethical AI and the future of AI development. He will be speaking at Imagine AI Live NYC, sharing insights from his extensive experience in the field.
David Borish
David Borish is a visionary creative technologist, AI strategist, and entrepreneur who has been at the forefront of innovation for over two decades. With an impressive track record of building groundbreaking companies and brands, David has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible at the intersection of technology, creativity, and social impact.
His recently published book, "AI 2024: Trends, Technologies, and Transformations," quickly soared to the #1 spot on Amazon's Hot New Releases in Tech, cementing his position as a thought leader in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence.
Throughout his career, David has demonstrated an uncanny ability to identify and capitalize on emerging trends, from developing the first VR headset sold on television to co-founding neo360, a company that revolutionized sports video analysis with its touchscreen video clip control technology. His groundbreaking work has earned him recognition from major media outlets such as Forbes, TechCrunch, Entrepreneur, and CNBC, as well as a US patent for his innovative PRIMO AI technology.
As a sought-after public speaker, podcast guest, and advisor to global organizations, David's unique perspective and infectious enthusiasm have inspired audiences around the world. With his commitment to bridging the world of AI and creative endeavors by fostering collaboration between these often-separate domains, he has pioneered innovative approaches that leverage AI's analytical power to enhance creative expression and explore new artistic frontiers.
With his upcoming featured talk, "Creative Renaissance: Why AI Sparks a New Era for Creatives," at Imagine AI Live IMPACT New York on July 12, David will demonstrate that AI is not a threat to the creative industries, but rather the most powerful tool that the creative industry has ever experienced.
Willonius Hatcher
(King Willonius)
Willonius Hatcher's journey began with a burning passion for creativity and technology, sparking an insatiable curiosity that would lead him into uncharted territories. Driven by innovation, he quickly became an award-winning Filmmaker, AI storyteller, and Comedian, a modern renaissance man unafraid to break boundaries.
On Clubhouse, he took a daring leap, creating the first live serialized audio drama, the critically acclaimed soap opera, 'The Young and The Thirsty.' This bold endeavor was more than a creative feat; it marked a groundbreaking frontier in interactive entertainment.
Hatcher's technological prowess and artistic flair have reached beyond the expected. He's guided world-renowned brands like Samsung and Google to transformative marketing success, and his vibrant community on Clubhouse, the largest comedy community on the platform with over 250,000 members, stands as a testament to his ability to engage, entertain, and inspire.
His innovations have not only been celebrated on esteemed platforms like CNN and MTV but have also earned him speaker roles at Art Basel, Tedx, EthDenver, SXSW, and MIT Reality Hack. As the visionary founder of Blerd Factory, Hatcher's disruptive approach continues to reshape conventional strategies, reflecting his commitment to creative excellence and diverse voices.
But what truly sets Hatcher apart is not just his professional acumen. He's a man guided by the stars, finding joy in stargazing and constant learning. Whether performing stand-up comedy in the Metaverse using virtual reality or watching YouTube videos at double speed to fuel his relentless curiosity, Hatcher's life is a blend of creativity, technology, and joyous exploration.
A Fellow of prestigious programs and a beacon for diverse voices, Hatcher's story is one of continual growth, laughter, and unparalleled achievement. His tale paints the portrait of a man ever ready to explore, learn, and create, driven by a deep-seated mission to inspire others through his unique blend of humor and innovation.
Tony Rose and Laura Brugioni
Tony Rose and Laura Brugioni are two of the visionary co-founders of NEXARTIS, a pioneering technology company that merges AI innovation with cutting-edge blockchain technology. NEXARTIS offers a versatile ecosystem that empowers a broad range of industries, from creative arts to agriculture, with secure and transparent payment solutions. The company’s blockchain-based system is adept at handling tasks like monetization, rights management, and payment distribution. For various sectors, it enables applications such as tracking carbon credits for farmers and managing royalty payments for creators. NEXARTIS is powering the efficient processing of split sheets, ensuring fair compensation and accurate attribution to creators on its platforms.
The journey to NEXARTIS began with the AI Music Video Show, a groundbreaking platform showcasing AI-enhanced music videos. Building on its success, Tony and Laura launched the AI Music Video Channel, a 24/7 streaming platform dedicated to AI-enhanced music and video content and the community creating it. Recognizing the need for a robust infrastructure to support creators in this new AI-driven landscape, they founded NEXARTIS to provide the technological backbone for these innovative platforms.
After receiving his degree in Computer Science from Berkeley, Tony led the architecture and deployment of Apple Pay in the US while at Vantiv, collaborating with tech giants like Apple, Google, and Samsung. Tony's expertise in payment systems, blockchain technology, and digital identity uniquely positions him to address the challenges of fair compensation and rights management in the creative industry.
Laura Brugioni, is the Chief Commercial Officer of NEXARTIS and host of The AI Music Video Show, where she brings her unique perspective as a self-described artist to their ventures. Her creative direction has been pivotal in steering NEXARTIS and its associated platforms towards continuous innovation with a focus on Human Creativity enhanced with AI technology.
At the upcoming Imagine AI Live IMPACT New York conference, Tony and Laura will be showcasing The AI Music and Video Channel powered by NEXARTIS. Their participation in the event includes an immersive workshop led by renowned AI creator Ben Nash, an exclusive VIP dinner for industry leaders, and a private AI party featuring live AI-generated music and interactive art installations.
Sudeep Kesh
Sudeep Kesh is the Chief Innovation Officer for S&P Global Ratings. His team is responsible for research, development, and training programs in the realm of Disruption and Emerging Risk, primarily focused on digital risks like Cyber, Artificial Intelligence, and Technology Disruption, the interplay between these and financial markets, and implications to the evolving risk landscape more broadly.
Additionally, Sudeep leads the Technology Disruption Research Lab across S&P Global where he leads analysts in research and thought leadership across the enterprise, most recently launching S&P Global’s AI Insights (www.spglobal.ai).
Sudeep has also led award-winning training programs to help galvanize analysts’ thinking across the globe in these matters. In prior roles, Sudeep has led a global team of credit research and economics professionals to author well-regarded, award-winning research on various credit research topics.
Sudeep holds a BSc in Management Science from the Rochester Institute of Technology and an MBA from Binghamton University.
Amanda Molina
Amanda C. Molina is an attorney at the forefront of AI, data privacy, and cybersecurity law. As a Corporate Counsel at Microsoft, she navigates the complex legal landscape surrounding disruptive technologies, ensuring compliance and ethical implementation of AI systems. Her expertise extends beyond the corporate realm, as she also serves as a cyber attorney in the Judge Advocate General Corps of the United States Air Force Reserves, bringing a unique perspective on national security to her work.
Prior to her role at Microsoft, Amanda's commitment to public service shone through her tenure at the Office of the Legislative Counsel for the United States House of Representatives. There, she played a pivotal role in shaping legislation on a wide range of critical issues, including contributions to the CARES Act and the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021. Her diverse background also includes valuable experience with government and international organizations such as the White House, Department of State, and USAID.
Recognizing the need for clear, accurate information about emerging technologies, Amanda founded thesidebars.com in November 2023. This blog serves as a platform to dispel misinformation surrounding disruptive technology and AI, reflecting her dedication to public education and technological literacy. Her commitment to positive change extends to her board membership with the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area and Advance Arlington, as well as her distinguished membership in the American Society for AI. Amanda's multifaceted expertise and passion for ethical technological advancement make her a compelling voice in the ongoing dialogue about AI compliance and its impact on society.
Greg Morrisett
Greg Morrisett is the Dean and Vice Provost of Cornell Tech and a faculty member in the Computer Science Department at Cornell University.
As Dean, he has overall responsibility for the campus, including the academic quality and direction of the Cornell Tech degree programs and research. Working with both internal and external stakeholders, he is developing approaches for working with companies, nonprofits, government agencies and early-stage investors, as well as overseeing the faculty recruitment and entrepreneurial initiatives of the campus.
Prior to joining Cornell Tech, Morrisett was Dean of Computing and Information Science (CIS) at Cornell University from 2015-2019. Previously, he held the Allen B. Cutting chair in Computer Science at Harvard University from 2004-2015 where he also served as Associate Dean for Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. Before Harvard, Morrisett spent eight years on the faculty of Cornell’s Computer Science Department.
Morrisett’s research focuses on the application of programming language technology for building secure, reliable, and high-performance software systems. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond and both his Master’s and Doctorate degrees from Carnegie Mellon University.
Hao Sheng
Hao Sheng, Ex-Google, is the founder and CEO of Chatsimple, an AI-native chatbot platform that can be deployed in minutes for any business. With over six years in the field of conversational AI, Hao has consistently been at the forefront of AI technology, from his time at Google's Dialogflow to founding Chatsimple. At Google, Hao played a crucial role in a landmark AI project, developing virtual agents for a leading telecom company. His expertise has also been pivotal in shaping over 30 enterprise-level deals, demonstrating his skill in deploying effective AI solutions. Now, at the helm of Chatsimple, Hao is transforming business client interactions with user-friendly chatbots.
Connect with Hao Sheng to explore the future of conversational AI and its impact on business dynamics: LinkedIn
Alex Northstar
Alex Northstar is a sought after AI educator and influencer renowned for his dynamic and innovative approach to AI integration in business and personal productivity. With a substantial following on social media, particularly on Twitter (𝕏) under the handle @NorthstarBrain, Alex shares his deep knowledge and practical strategies on leveraging AI to transform workflows and enhance efficiency.
Alex has a rich background in AI training, having upskilled thoudands of professionals during his tenure at Google. His experience includes developing and delivering training programs that equip individuals with the skills to harness AI effectively in their careers. Beyond his work at Google, Alex has consulted for numerous B2B clients and helped high-performers streamline their operations through AI automation and productivity coaching. He has educated thousands of entrepreneurs via his online platforms and workshops.
Alex is the visionary behind the "4-Hour AI Workweek," an innovative program designed to help individuals reclaim their time by integrating AI into their daily tasks, thereby reducing the traditional workweek. This program is a testament to his commitment to enhancing productivity and improving work-life balance through AI.
At the upcoming Imagine AI Live New York conference, Alex Northstar will lead hands-on workshops focusing on the basics of AI prompt engineering for personal productivity and AI for automating workflows. Participants will learn the fundamentals of creating effective AI prompts to enhance personal productivity and gain insights into implementing AI-driven solutions to streamline business processes and improve operational efficiency. Alex Northstar’s workshops are designed to be highly interactive, providing attendees with actionable skills and strategies to integrate AI into their professional and personal lives effectively.
Yung Spielburg
Yung Spielburg is a Grammy award-winning music producer and songwriter renowned for his innovative approach to music and technology. He is most well known for his work with Japanese multi-hyphenate, MIYAVI. He leads AI research at the music and tech research and intelligence network Water & Music, and you might also know him as the voice of the theme on The All-In Podcast.
As a Founding Member of Imagine AI Live, Yung Spielburg is deeply involved in the discourse around AI and its applications in music and creative rights owners. At this year's IMPACT New York event, he will share his insights on the groundbreaking impact of new AI music generation platforms like Suno and Udio. These platforms have rapidly emerged, revolutionizing the music industry by enabling the creation of high-fidelity, genre-specific music through intuitive text prompts.
Yung will explore how these tools are not only generating new musical ideas but also enhancing human creativity. His session will dive into the ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated content and the future of music production in an AI-driven world.
Ben Nash
Ben Nash is a pioneering AI artist and creative technologist whose groundbreaking work explores the frontiers of human-AI collaboration. Recently recognized by renowned venture firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) as one of the top AI artists in the world, Ben's innovative projects showcase the stunning potential of AI-augmented creativity.
With an eclectic background spanning industrial design, web development, art fabrication, and creative coding, Ben brings a multidisciplinary approach to his AI artistry. He is passionate about empowering creators of all stripes to harness the power of AI in their creative process.
As an educator and community builder, Ben is the founder of the AI Arts Collective, a global network of artists exploring the implications of AI for creative expression. He regularly speaks and leads workshops at the intersection of art and technology.
Prior to his AI art career, Ben founded a boutique digital design agency, led an art fabrication studio, and even holds several patents for his inventions. He studied industrial design at North Carolina State University, where he also pursued computer science with a focus on emergent technologies.
When not pushing pixels, Ben can be found composing electronic music, experimenting with generative art, and dreaming up new modes of creative expression. His mission is to inspire the next generation of creators to wield AI as an artistic superpower.
At Imagine AI Live NYC, Ben will be leading an immersive workshop on AI-powered creativity. Attendees will get hands-on experience with the latest AI creative tools and learn practical workflows for transforming ideas into stunning visual outputs. Get ready to have your mind blown and your creative potential unlocked!
Seth Levine
Seth Levine, Lead Machine Learning Scientist at Loris AI, is a trailblazer in conversational intelligence that empowers leading brands to unlock the hidden value of every customer conversation, transforming everyday interactions into actionable insights.
With a Bachelor's degree in Complex Human Behavior and Evolution from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master's degree in Computer Science from the New York Institute of Technology, Seth brings a unique perspective to his role at Loris AI.
Host of the popular podcast "Learning from Machine Learning," Seth shares invaluable insights and lessons from industry experts, entrepreneurs, and practitioners. Through engaging discussions, he explores AI's transformative power and impact on various sectors, making complex concepts accessible to a wide audience.
Dan Callahan
Mateo Beccar Varela
Dan Callahan (Chief Executive Officer) and Mateo Beccar Varela (Chief Product Officer) are the co-founders of Quikirr, an AI-enabled provider of financial modeling software for investors and bankers housed entirely in Excel.
Borne from their collective experience in private equity (Audax Group / Clarion Capital Partners) and banking (Barclays TMT), Dan and Mateo developed Quikirr to streamline repetitive analyses common in finance.
Quikirr combines cutting-edge AI technologies with an Excel-native approach to offer a targeted modeling solution. The company’s innovative application of AI technology is specifically designed to handle the complexity and bespoke nature of banking and investing analyses.
Keep up with Quikirr on LinkedIn and X / Twitter.
Manuj Aggarwal
Manuj Aggarwal, is the founder and Chief Innovation Officer at TetraNoodle Technologies, an elite AI consulting company. Manuj, through TetraNoodle, has served clients like Microsoft, IBM, Pearson Education and touched at least 10 million lives and generated over $500M in value through his expertise in technology and AI.
He has spoken at prestigious venues like the United Nations alongside distinguished figures like the Secretary-General and Nobel Peace Prize winners, while President Obama and Bill Gates have recognized his work. Manuj has 4 patents in AI, and has authored two books on technology.
Manuj is also the host of the "Bootstrapping Your Dreams" podcast, which ranks among the top 0.5% of podcasts globally. The podcast focuses on entrepreneurship and business growth, providing valuable insights and inspiration to a wide audience.
Jerrod Lew
Jerrod Lew is a pioneering force in the realm of artificial intelligence and digital content creation, bringing over a decade of multifaceted experience to the Imagine AI Live IMPACT event at Cornell Tech in Manhattan on July 12, 2024.
As a founding member of the Imagine AI Live conference, Jerrod has been at the forefront of integrating AI into various creative and analytical domains, from songwriting and gaming to technology and generative AI. His expertise in prompt engineering with leading models like ChatGPT-4o and Anthropic's Claude 3.5 Sonnet, as well as platforms like Luma AI, positions him as a key figure in the AI community.
Jerrod's career is a testament to his versatility and innovative spirit. He has created impactful online content since 2007, amassing over 6 million social media impressions and a dedicated following of more than 1,500 people. His work spans corporate crisis communications, where he excels at social media risk detection and brand protection, to his role as a self-taught musician with five charity albums to his name.
At the upcoming Imagine AI Live IMPACT event, Jerrod will lend his expertise in workshops to showcase his unique blend of creative and analytical skills, offering attendees invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI in today's digital landscape.
Liz Ngonzi
Elizabeth (Liz) Ngonzi, a founding member of Imagine AI Live and the New York City host for its new "Impact" series one-day events, is an acclaimed speaker, transformative coach, award-winning educator, and innovator in AI for Impact. With over two decades of experience integrating emerging technologies to transform storytelling and stakeholder engagement, Ngonzi has impacted thousands of leaders through her work at The International Social Impact Institute® and as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at NYU, among others.
Liz's expertise in AI-powered personal branding has earned her a global reputation. She has partnered with organizations like the Obama Foundation, USAID/Power Africa, GivingTuesday, and Cornell University to guide their grantee partners, students, and alumni in leveraging AI to amplify their impact and reach. At Imagine AI Live New York, Liz will deliver a session on "AI-Powered Leadership: Amplifying Your Personal Brand Across Industries," providing attendees with actionable insights to elevate their professional presence through AI.
As the founder and CEO of The International Social Impact Institute®, Liz has spearheaded significant global initiatives, empowering over 2,000 leaders in the last year alone to maximize their impact through AI-powered storytelling and partnership development. As a Board member of the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas, she has led efforts to leverage AI to enhance stakeholder engagement and streamline operations within this educational organization that sets the global standard for excellence in beverage service.
As a member of the Cornell University Council and President's Council of Cornell Women, Liz has delivered AI knowledge to fellow council members, showcasing her expertise and commitment to advancing Cornell's mission through innovative technologies.
Liz's educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University and a Master's degree Cornell University. Her professional career spans roles at Digital Equipment Corporation, MICROS Systems Inc., Arthur Andersen Business Consulting, and founding a global nonprofit consultancy.
As the New York City host, Liz's expertise and dynamic presence will be instrumental in ensuring attendees come away with a deeper understanding of AI's potential to drive impactful change in their organizations and communities.
Connect with Liz on LinkedIn and 𝕏 Twitter to stay updated on her latest insights and initiatives.
Kalyan Gautham
Kalyan is the Cofounder & CEO at xPub, a 2x VC-backed founder and a Forbes awardee, and a visionary entrepreneur and technology leader at the forefront of the AI revolution. As the CEO of xPub, a Techstars '23 accelerator company, Kalyan is pioneering the use of Generative AI to transform B2B sales cycles.
His innovative approach combines his extensive background in management consulting for Fortune 100 companies with cutting-edge AI technology. Kalyan's entrepreneurial journey includes founding WATT, a groundbreaking platform for virtual marches and charity walks, which was successfully acquired. His expertise has earned him recognition on the Forbes Next 1000 list and as a TEDx speaker.
A global changemaker, Kalyan serves as the Founding Curator of the World Economic Forum's Global Shapers Community and is a Climate Reality Leader trained by Vice President Al Gore. His commitment to social impact and environmental causes is matched only by his business acumen, honed through his MBA from Cornell University and experience as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Antler.
Connect with Kalyan on LinkedIn.
Sam Lee
Sam is the CoFounder and CEO of Meili Technologies who’s enterprise software unifies compliance and safety for organizations with mobile workforces, providing automated advanced insights and compliance reporting.
Sam has an extensive background in AI and data science, specializing in big data at AppNexus, one of the largest online advertising exchanges. There, she developed algorithms to optimize billions of daily auction processes.
Before this role, Sam created various data-centric tools for non-technical teams, making complex data easily understandable and actionable.
Sam holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from Princeton and received a Masters in Computer Science from Cornell. She is passionate about leveraging technology for safety and volunteers as an EMT in NYC during her free time.
Advait Raykar
Aparajita Thakker
Advait Raykar and Aparajita Thakker are the visionary co-founders of Esger, an AI-powered supply chain compliance platform that is transforming how businesses manage ESG risks and sustainability. Esger's proprietary AuditSense technology can analyze major supplier audit formats like RBA, BSCI, and SMETA in minutes, assigning risk scores and generating corrective action plans.
The company's mission is to build the "AI-powered Operating System for Responsible, Sustainable Supply Chains." Advait (CEO), brings deep technical expertise as a computer science graduate of Cornell University with experience building scalable AI systems at high-growth startups like Skit. Aparajita, the COO, contributes her strategic acumen as a Cornell MBA and marketing leader who has driven growth at companies like Chewy.
Together, they have led Esger to early traction, with backing from Cornell, Microsoft for Startups, Google for Startups, and Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator in NYC.
Matt Davis
Matthew Davis is the Director of Outreach and Alumni Engagement at Cornell Tech, the graduate campus of Cornell University in New York City. He leads programs that connect three main groups: Cornell Tech’s growing alumni body of nearly 2,500, Cornell University alumni passionate about tech innovation, and individuals and organizations working to make NYC a global tech hub.
Previously, Matthew led B2B business development, alumni affairs, and career services in North America for IE University, a top-ranked Spanish institution known for tech and business programs. Before entering higher education, he spent eight years as VP of international sales and chief of staff at a world-leading manufacturer of lifestyle and gaming furniture.
Matthew holds a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from IE University. He has worked on five continents and is fluent in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. He is dedicated to supporting rising leaders and fostering connections to build a strong, collaborative tech community in New York City and beyond.
Dr. Zara Safsovski
Zara Safsovski is the visionary Founder and CEO of EveAI, leveraging artificial intelligence to transform healthcare by tackling critical challenges like burnout and misdiagnosis. Her pioneering path from medical practice across continents to launching a tech-driven enterprise is marked by relentless learning through entrepreneurship programs.
Beyond healthcare AI, Zara explores the intersection of technology and art through her passion for AI-generated creativity. A fitness enthusiast, her disciplined morning routine embodies resilience and well-being. Zara exemplifies transformative leadership, driving societal progress alongside innovation through her advocacy for disability rights and community service, recognized by quarterly awards and the 2023 League of Excellence distinction.
Zara is a founding member of Imagine AI Live and was instrumental in orchestrating the success of the inaugural conference in Las Vegas.
Jessa of “I versus AI”
Jessa is the voice behind I versus AI, a YouTube channel which shares ChatGPT tips and tricks that no one else is talking about. Her soothing voice, informative style, and sense of humor make it easy to learn about the power which large language models have and how to use these new AI tools to change your life, both personally and professionally.
Jessa doesn't just talk the talk; she walks the walk, using tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, Ideogram.ai, Eleven Labs, and Udio to bring her creative educational videos to life. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her husband and a cantankerous and adorable elder cat.
Jessa is also the voice you will hear announcing speakers and events at Imagine AI Live as part of her work on the Founding Member team.
Subscribe to Jessa’s YouTube channel here at YouTube.com/@iversusai, and connect with Jessa on 𝕏 Twitter at X.com/IversusAI.
Steve Metcalf
Steve Metcalf is a Co-Founder and the CEO of IMAGINE AI LIVE and a lifelong entrepreneur, ex-CEO and innovator with a background in management consulting and technology startups. A veteran of enterprise software, Steve honed his skills at Accenture, SAP-Ariba, and a number of tech-related ventures.
As an entrepreneur, Steve was the co-founder and former CEO of Air Motion Systems (now part of Barry-Wehmiller Group), where he spearheaded his company's rise to prominence as a top provider of LED and UV technology in industrial manufacturing. Metcalf further co-founded the annual Print UV Conference in the graphics industry to accelerate the adoption of sustainable UV technologies in printing and packaging.
As an AI business philosopher and digital strategist, Metcalf is now at the forefront of shaping enterprise AI strategy for organizations of all types, leveraging his extensive experience to drive innovation and growth. His deep involvement in the generative AI scene for enterprises has positioned him as a thought leader, particularly in applying generative AI tools and automation to enhance business processes and outcomes.
As the founder of the Imagine AI Live conference, Metcalf is committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration among industry experts to unlock the full potential of AI in the business world. His insights into the transformative power of AI are informed by a career that has consistently pushed the boundaries of technology and its practical applications in various industries. With a passion for mentoring and knowledge sharing, Metcalf's contributions extend beyond the corporate sphere, influencing the next generation of entrepreneurs and technologists.