AHA SERIES
ASK HER|HIM ANYTHING
Real Conversations.
Bold Insights.
Answers You Need.
The AHA Series is a candid, interactive space where expert women leaders spark clarity, courage, and change. Whether you’re navigating a transition, stepping into leadership, or ready to shake things up, these sessions deliver the insights you didn’t know you needed. Join live or watch on demand.
Each session features a trailblazing expert redefining what it means to lead with purpose. Below, explore:
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Upcoming sessions to register for
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Replays of past sessions
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Tools and takeaways shared by each speaker
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Ways to keep the conversation going
Click into each speaker’s section to dive deeper and connect.
About Our Guest Expert:
Heather Reid, ARCT, MSc, CMP is a trusted voice in the Canadian meetings and events industry, renowned for her contract expertise, risk mitigation strategies, and advocacy for fair and ethical practices. As the Founder and CEO of Planner Protect, she helps clients navigate complex contract language with confidence and clarity. With over 25 years of experience and multiple awards for her leadership and service, Heather recently launched the Certification for Contracts program, setting a new standard in professional education for event professionals. Heather is passionate about empowering others to protect their interests and elevate their business practices.
When she's not mentoring professionals, Leanne enjoys making jam, gardening, and spending time with her family in Kelowna, BC.
About Our Guest Expert:
Devon Montgomery Pasha, CMP, CED is a dynamic leader in the global events industry, with a passion for empowering people through education, connection, and intentional design. As the Director of North America at the Event Leadership Institute, Devon combines her extensive background in adult learning, DEI, and event strategy to support professionals at every stage of their careers.
Devon’s work spans corporate events, destination marketing, and experiential learning, making her a trusted voice for industry transformation. Whether she’s leading workshops, mentoring rising leaders, or advocating for more inclusive experiences, Devon shows up with purpose, clarity, and a drive to help others unlock their potential.
Join us to hear her insights on leadership, growth, and how to navigate today’s evolving professional landscape with courage and curiosity.
About Our Guest Expert:
Yush Sztalkoper is a visionary communicator and inclusion strategist who blends brand storytelling with the science of neurodiversity. As Founder of NeuroSpark+, she helps organizations build authentic, high-performing cultures where neurodivergent minds thrive.
With a background in communications, marketing, and people-first leadership, Yush brings strategic insight and lived experience to every conversation. Her empathy-driven approach empowers leaders to reduce bias, reframe difference as strength, and lead inclusive change with confidence.
About Our Guest Expert:
Tim Hines, known as The Marketing Starter, is a global marketing strategist, keynote speaker, and author who helps professionals drive growth with an entrepreneurial mindset. With 20+ years of experience across tech, startups, and enterprise, he’s led transformative strategies for brands like Dialpad, GoDaddy, and Tribune Media.
Author of The Marketing Starter, Tim empowers audiences to embrace change, spark innovation, and lead with agility. His no-fluff, high-energy style equips leaders to break the status quo and create impact in today’s fast-paced business world.
About Our Guest Expert:
Leanne Velky is a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder of Leanne Velky, Inc., a registration services company specializing in high-quality Cvent solutions. With over 15 years of intensive expertise in the platform, she's earned the title "Reg Queen" among her peers. Leanne's journey from a self-proclaimed "Registration Nerd" to a trusted Cvent guru showcases her dedication to excellence in event registration.
Beyond her technical prowess, Leanne is passionate about mentoring professionals navigating career transitions. Her insights on embracing change and finding one's path have resonated with many, making her a sought-after speaker and advisor.
Join us to gain valuable insights from Leanne's wealth of experience and her unique perspective on professional growth and transformation.
About Our Guest Expert:
Leanne Calderwood, CMP is a leading LinkedIn and personal branding expert who helps professionals—especially introverts—build visibility and attract opportunities without self-promotion. With 14+ years as a ConferenceDirect associate and deep roots in the events industry, she blends insider knowledge with authentic branding strategies.
A self-proclaimed “raging introvert,” Leanne has turned her personal brand into a thriving six-figure business through courses, speaking, and consulting. Her insights have been featured in Corporate Meetings Network, Canadian Special Events Magazine, and top industry podcasts.
Based in Kelowna, BC, Leanne is also a tea lover, gardener, and jam maker.
