Rollins Theatre at the Long Center

Cornbread Mafia

Addiction/Recovery
Legal
Senior/Aging
Social Issue

Action
Biography
Comedy
Crime
Documentary

African American
Books/Literary
Celebrity

Phoenix Jones: The Rise and Fall of a Real Life Superhero

Authentic storytelling that captivates, surprises, and excites.

A New Inferno

"A New Inferno" is a vérité short documentary set during Phoenix’s historically hottest month, July, when record-breaking heat turns deadly, especially for the unhoused. In 2024, 608 people in Maricopa County died from heat-related illness, representing a staggering increase over the past decade. The film follows the crew at Arizona’s busiest firehouse, as they race to save heatstroke victims using a radical new treatment. Against the backdrop of rising global temperatures, urban heat islands, and under-resourced services, Phoenix has become a climate canary. "A New Inferno" offers a visceral, street-level view of the climate crisis as it unfolds in one of the hottest major cities on Earth.

Filmed during the hottest days of Phoenix, Arizona’s summer heatwave, A New Inferno follows paramedics as they race to save the lives of heatstroke victims using a radical new treatment: ice immersion therapy.

Sam Osborn
Alejandra Vasquez
Jesse Ray Sheps

Jake West, Roy Lewis, Jason Smith, Colter Fosdick, Jeremy Heckel

Production Sound Mixer: Daniel Reddick, Rigging Grip: Stephane Strande, Rigging Grip: Brian Osback, Production Assistant: Camden Smith, Colorist: Keyhan Bayegan

He's Out There

Years ago, Devin, who has special needs, became enthralled by Bigfoot after watching the long-running reality TV series Mountain Monsters. When his mom took the opportunity to foster her son’s passion, daily hunts for Sasquatch grew into something more than a pastime. He’s Out There tells the story of—in Devin’s words—the proudest week of his life.

An Autistic Bigfoot hunter meets his heroes.

Devin Buccino, Karen Buccino, Jimmy Buccino, William “Willly” McQuillian, Jeff “Jeffro” Headlee

Glacier's Requiem

For three weeks, modular synthesis composer Colloboh makes music from field recordings in Iceland’s remote Snæfellsnes Peninsula. What begins as an exploration of sound evolves into a meditation on ecological collapse and the dilemma it poses for humanity.

Amid Iceland’s melting glaciers, modular synthesis artist Colloboh records the dying rhythms of ice and sea, uncovering a living language within nature itself – a requiem for the planet and for us.

India Lee
Kaspar Kamu
Jaume Masdevall
Saddiq Abubakar
Collins "Colloboh" Oboh

Associate Producer: Oli Falcon, Post Producer: Thomas Vinney, Colorist: Tim Smith, Iceland Producer: Jón Bjarni Guðmundsson, Local Production Coordinator: Andri Thor Birgisson, 2nd Unit Cinematographer: Neil Shukla

Eructation

Kaylee is an insanely loud burper. The world record for loudest female burp is currently set at 107.3 decibels, which is louder than a hair dryer, a lawn mower, and a leaf blower. But it's a number that Kaylee routinely beats on her own—her loudest belch to date is 110 decibels as recorded on her decibel reader app. In this documentary short, we follow her as she prepares to go for the record.

The world record for loudest female burp is 107.3 decibels. Kaylee wants to beat it.

Gaffer: Deante Grinner, Colorist: Ryan Urzi, Location Sound Mixer: Wesley McLean, Grip: Noah Kamen, Grip: Gabriel Clement, Production Assistant: David Lonergan, Executive Producer: Jason Scott, Executive Producer: Victoria Trow

Air Horse One

Training, Take-Off, Grand Prix. Legacy is one of the most valuable and celebrated horses in show jumping. In pursuit of victories, she is flown between competition venues across the globe. "Air Horse One" follows Legacy on her long journeys in the business class of equine air travel.

Philipp Ritler
Valentin Leblanc
Delphine Duez

Not Scared, Just Sad

Turning the camera on her family and surroundings in Beirut during the recent Israeli bombings of the city, Isabelle captures the jarring coexistence of regular life with the relentless shock and grief of living on the periphery of war.

November 2024, as the war escalates in a nearby suburb, a family in Beirut tries to live as normally as possible.

Kamen Velkovsky
Atilla Yücer
Diane Daccache

Norma Daccache, Hanna Damtew, Meseret (Rita) Donise, Jemaa Khaled, Christian Mecattaf, Diane Mecattaf

Sound Mixer: Rabih Ahmar, Colorist: Elie Akoka


DJ Jester the Filipino Fist

Gear Endorsement, Distribution - US, Other Artists to Tour With, Booking Agent - US, PR/Publicity Agency

Flatstock Stage @ Austin Marriott Downtown (Moontower Hall)


Own Your Sh*t (and Your IP): The Creator CEO Playbook

Kristina Liburd

Founder, Creator Law School, Creator CEO Playbook

Kristina Liburd is a tech-savvy attorney, author, and unapologetic advocate for creators. She’s the founder of Creator Law School and Legal Stack Studio, where she helps digital entrepreneurs own their sht and their IP. As of Counsel at DBM, she supports talent, startups, and platforms across entertainment, privacy, and compliance. Kristina’s work bridges law and culture, with past talks at TBEX, Phocuswright, WITS, and Columbia. She’s known for ‘making law sexy,’ breaking down legal traps in plain English and giving creators the tools to license smarter, flag red flags fast, and build without fear.

Rio Grande Ballroom 2

Pitching to Angels 101: Think Like an Investor

Play to Build: Prosocial AI for Human Connection

Brand Strategy Workshop for Emerging Tech Companies

Prompt to Publish - AI Tools for the Modern Content Creator

From Monk to Manager: Zen Lessons for Loving Your Work

Most creators don’t get screwed in dramatic blowups. They sign their rights away quietly in contracts that look “standard.” In fact, 6 out of 10 creators don’t realize they’ve given up ownership until it’s already gone. This isn’t a legal lecture. It’s a hard reset on how creators should think about IP, licensing, and leverage before agreeing to the deal. The Creator CEO Playbook shows how to spot ownership traps early and stop trading long-term assets for one-time checks.

OWN YOUR SH*T (AND YOUR IP): THE CREATOR CEO PLAYBOOK

Creator Economy track sponsored by Yamaha


Audible Dimensions: Expanding Story Through Spatial Audio

Eric Cheng

Director of Immersive Media

Eric Cheng is an award-winning photographer, creative technologist, and Director of Immersive Media at Meta Reality Labs. Having produced 8 Emmy-nominated VR films and experiences, Eric is at the forefront of exploring emerging media formats. Prior to joining Meta, Eric was Director of Aerial Imaging at DJI and Director of Photography at Lytro.

In a previous life, Eric was on the ocean as a professional underwater photographer, during which he published widely, lead expeditions to remote locations on the planet, and gave talks about the intersection of technology and storytelling at events including TEDx, EG, TTI/Vanguard, DEFCON, CES, SXSW, and others. He is a passionate advocate for ocean conservation, having served on the Board of Directors of Shark Savers (now part of WildAid) and the Board of Advisors of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

Eric holds degrees in computer science from Stanford University, where he also studied classical cello performance. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and two sons.

Monica Bolles

Creative Lead/Owner

Monica Bolles has been working with spatial audio since 2011, beginning with her local planetarium's 15.1 surround system. As both technician and artist, she collaborates with composers and artists to realise immersive spatial works and also creates her own large-scale multimedia installations. Her work has featured at events like the Conference of World Affairs and Virginia Tech’s Cube Fest.

She co-hosts the Immersive Audio Podcast and NOTAM’s Spatial Audio Meetups. Monica regularly curates, moderates, and presents on spatial audio at festivals and conferences, including New Visions Festival, SXSW, IRCAM Forums, Ableton Loop, IMERSA Summit, and NIME. She runs Resonant Interactions, a company focused on immersive experience design and music production.

David Gould

Director, Content Creation & Distribution Solutions

 David Gould currently leads the Content Creation and Distribution Solutions team at Dolby, responsible for the professional ecosystems that enable creation of spectacular entertainment content in Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.
Prior to joining Dolby in 2012, David was a Senior Product Manager at Avid Technology, where he was responsible for Pro Tools software – the industry standard Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).  David started his career in London as a recording engineer at Abbey Road Studios, specializing in orchestral film scoring; he joined Avid in 2005 where he held various positions in technical sales before moving into product management.

Oliver Kadel

Senior Sound Technologist for Immersive Media

Oliver Kadel is a multi-award-winning sound designer and audio engineer based in London. Since 2014, he has delivered spatial and interactive audio for over 250 immersive projects across VR, AR, MR, and 360/180 films, spanning documentary, gaming, virtual training, branded content, and installations. He has worked on projects for companies including Meta, Apple, Google, Dolby, Bose, Magic Leap, Sony, and the BBC.

Pennybacker

Busting Myths: Why Virtual Production Isn’t What You Think

Unscripted Gold: Turning Real Life into Global Hits

From Niche to Noticed: New Paths for Indie Films

From Headline to Streamer: How Publishers Adapt Stories for TV

As storytelling expands into extended reality media, such as immersive films, VR, MR, AI glasses and location-based installations, spatial audio is emerging as one of the key narrative forces.

With today’s advanced head-mounted display technology, audiences expect not just 3D visuals but equally rich immersive sound that conveys presence, space and movement.

This panel explores the latest innovation in immersive sound technology and practical application from three different perspectives: software and hardware capabilities of hosting platforms, the spatial audio formats and content production workflows that bring these experiences to life.

AUDIBLE DIMENSIONS: EXPANDING STORY THROUGH SPATIAL AUDIO

Film & TV track sponsored by Crunchyroll


Escaping Algorithmic Binds: Creators vs. Corporate Platforms

Rudy Fraser

Founder & CEO

Rudy is a technologist, community organizer, and co-founder of Blacksky Algorithms, where he builds decentralized social media infrastructure that prioritizes community-driven safety, data ownership, and interoperability. As a Fellow at the Applied Social Media Lab at Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society, he advanced research and development on technology that empowered marginalized communities, particularly Black users. With over a decade of experience leading IT teams and architecting robust systems, Rudy is passionate about leveraging technology for social impact. Beyond Blacksky, he is actively involved in economic equity initiatives, mutual aid efforts in NYC, and developing tools that support sustainable, inclusive digital spaces.

Bridget Todd

Founder & CEO

Bridget Todd is a fellow at Harvard University’s Berkman Klein Center, host of Mozilla's award winning podcast IRL: Online Life is Real Life, and creator of iHeart's award winning tech & cultural podcast: There Are No Girls On The Internet. She is the CEO of Unbossed Creative, a mission driven production company focused on centering the experiences of women, Black folk, LGBTQ, and historically marginalized groups in conversations about tech. She is a frequently cited expert and speaker on misinformation and platform accountability. Formerly, as Director of Communication for gender-justice advocacy organization Ultraviolet, Bridget regularly met with leadership from Reddit, Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok. Her writing has been published in Newsweek, The Nation, The Atlantic, and elsewhere.

Rabble aka Evan Henshaw-Plath

Founder & CEO

Building the next gen of decentralized social apps, including diVine, a six-second looping video app, free of Gen-AI, featuring previously archived Vine videos.

Waller Ballroom A

Texas High School Shorts Screening & Q&A

From Who to What to You: The Weird AI-Infused Future of the Creator Economy

From Viral to Viable: Building IP as a Creator

Creators and users are locked in digital “serfdom” by corporate social media’s algorithms and business models. Rabble, Bridget Todd, and Rudy Fraser will tackle how to break free from the feudal overlords of tech, and explain why Musk buying Twitter aided the move to decentralized apps. They’ll dig into new financial models, open protocols, and new community apps that empower creators and users without enriching platform owners. Learn how to create strategies that sustain social communities, and why open, user-first social apps are gaining in popularity with creators and audiences alike.

ESCAPING ALGORITHMIC BINDS: CREATORS VS. CORPORATE PLATFORMS


Look What You Made Me Do: Revenge as Creative Catalyst

Kit Altin

CSO

Kit Altin is Chief Strategy Officer at The Gate London and founder of Midnight Revels, where story, emotion, and performance power learning and growth. A former DJ, set designer, and theatre promoter, she’s spent over two decades as an award-winning strategist helping brands unlock creativity that works, and has built a reputation for making even the driest subjects electric. As an educator, Kit has trained thousands globally—equipping companies and individuals to sharpen their creative skills. At SXSW 2025 her cult-favourite workshop Last Night a DJ Saved My Pitch proved presenters can drop the bass as well as the mic. For 2026 she’s back with Look What You Made Me Do: Revenge As Creative Catalyst—part life strategy, part anti-hero training camp, all creative fire.

Rio Grande Ballroom 1

You Are STILL the Brand: What AI Can’t Do for You

Sprints for Social Impact: Turn Time Pressure into Purpose

Vibe Coding: From Idea to MVP at Warp Speed

Artistic Disruption for Business Innovation

It Writes Itself: AI Variety Show & Creative Workshop

Beyoncé did it. Kendrick did it. Taylor did it. Now it’s your turn. This immersive workshop (with a killer soundtrack) turns rejection, rivalry, and resentment into creative fire. From The Count of Monte Cristo to Kill Bill, we’ll channel iconic revenge arcs, neuroscience insights, and pop power plays. In doing so, we'll reframe past slights as story fuel, sharpen your personal or professional brand, and turn petty into power moves. Part life strategy, part anti-hero training camp, this is your chance to alchemize grudge into growth. Who said motivation had to be pure?

LOOK WHAT YOU MADE ME DO: REVENGE AS CREATIVE CATALYST

Workplace track sponsored by University of Cincinnati


How the Ocean Twilight Zone Regulates Our Climate

Steven Haddock

Senior Scientist

Steven Haddock studies marine diversity, molecular biology, and bioluminescence at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute and UC Santa Cruz. He specializes in fragile gelatinous drifters that are abundant in the deep-sea and open ocean. During his research expeditions, he uses scuba diving and submersibles to study the interactions between animals and has documented many luminous species for the first time. He also runs the Bioluminescence Web Page (biolum.eemb.ucsb.edu), the citizen-science project jellywatch.org, and teaches computing to scientists at practicalcomputing.org. His work has appeared frequently in the New York Times, National Geographic, and on the BBC. Most recently he has published a book of photos and essays called The Radiant Sea.

Georgina (Gina) Guillén-Grillo

Director General For Foreign Policy

Ambassador Gina Guillen Grillo is a distinguished attorney and public notary with a career in law, international relations, and diplomacy. She's a career diplomat since 2001 and an expert in international ocean governance and policy.
Amb. Guillen served as legal adviser of Costa Rica to the United Nations from 2011 to 2017and as Permanent Representative to the International Seabed Authority from 2019. She was President of State Parties to UNCLOS from 2016 to 2017. She has led her country's team on ocean negotiations for the last 15 years. Currently she is Costa Rica's Ambassador for the Ocean and the Environment and a member of the Friends of Ocean Action Initiative.
She holds a Law Degree and MBA studies on International Marketing and Promotion and a Diploma on Ocean Law and Policy.

Philippe Cousteau Jr.

Host

Inspired by the legacy of his grandfather Jacques Cousteau and his father Philippe Sr., Philippe Cousteau has built his career around the mission of protecting and restoring our Ocean. He is the CEO of Voyacy ReGen a blue tech company pioneering coastal restoration technology and founder of EarthEcho International, a leading ocean education and youth leadership organization. Philippe is a globally recognized thought leader, storyteller, and entrepreneur driving towards a better future.

Chris Dorsett

Vice President Of Conservation

Chris Dorsett is Ocean Conservancy’s Vice President of Conservation, where he oversees initiatives to ensure healthy and resilient marine ecosystems, abundant fish and wildlife populations and vibrant coastal communities. He has been with the organization since 2002, working to reform fisheries to address unsustainable fishing and the recovery of the Gulf from the impacts of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil disaster. He has served on a number of expert advisory panels including the Federal Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee, providing advice on living marine resource issues to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. Chris holds a BS in Marine Fisheries from Texas A&M University and a JD from the University of Texas.

Room 201-202

Rewriting the Rules of Business: A Guide to Purpose & Profit

The Geography of Prosperity: A New Map for Resilient Cities

Saving Monarchs With Machine Learning and Computer Vision

Where Climate Science Meets Industry Innovation

The mesopelagic zone, or Ocean Twilight Zone, where light begins to disappear, is home to creatures that are crucial to regulating our climate through the largest migration on the planet that locks away 2-6 gigatons of carbon every year. With improving technology and increasing demand for fish protein, industry is exploring ways to exploit these deep-sea animals for uses like fish oil and pet food. This session will showcase the amazing animals that live in the deep, their role in regulating our planet’s climate, and international efforts to keep this vital carbon pump functioning like it should.

HOW THE OCEAN TWILIGHT ZONE REGULATES OUR CLIMATE


SXSW Pitch-Enterprise and Future of Work

David Dundua

Managing Partner

Angel Investor, Board Member, Advisor. Investing in early stage tech startups together with fellow angels (founders/operators/C-level execs). Based out of Norway, but travelling the world.

Shelby McKeown

Senior Associate

Shelby is a senior investment associate at Edison and works on origination and execution of investments within the Fintech, Enterprise Software, and Healthcare IT sectors. Prior to joining Edison as an associate in 2023, Shelby worked at Bank of America in middle market commercial credit, working on portfolio management and transaction underwriting for clients across a variety of industries. She later joined the bank’s corporate strategy group to focus on commercial credit pricing strategy and credit pricing deal advisory. Shelby then moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina where she earned her MBA at the University of North Carolina. She also worked part-time evaluating investments at Simplex Ventures, an early stage fintech-focused venture firm based out of Chicago, Illinois.

BA, Finance and Economics, Wofford College

MBA, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Vincent Diallo

Partner

Mohanjit Jolly

Partner

Salon FGH

SXSW Pitch-Healthcare, AssistiveTech & BioTech

SXSW Pitch-Sustainability, AgTech & Food

SXSW Pitch-Smart Cities, Transportation, Manufacturing & Logistics

SXSW Pitch-Smart Data, Security, and FinTech

The SXSW Pitch provides a platform for early-stage technology startups to present their groundbreaking products and services to a panel of distinguished industry experts, influential media professionals, and leading venture capitalists and angel investors.

On Saturday, March 14, five innovative companies will take the stage in Salon FGH at the JW Marriott, showcasing their ideas, innovations, and entrepreneurial vision before a live audience and judging panel. Come be inspired by the next generation of tech innovators shaping the future.

Enterprise and Future of WorkTechnologies and platforms that empower organizations to operate more efficiently, securely, and intelligently in an increasingly connected world—while reimagining how, where, and why work gets done. This category includes Enterprise SaaS solutions that drive scalable business operations across departments including sales and Human Resources. It also covers Vertical SaaS tailored to the specialized needs of a variety of industries. Startups in this space leverage AI/ML for Enterprise to power decision support systems, workflow automation, predictive analytics, and intelligent process augmentation. Additional focus areas include project management, human capital systems, APIs, knowledge management, cloud computing, MLOps, and AI-driven customer service—tools that collectively shape the future of work, business intelligence, and enterprise growth at scale. These innovations often focus on simplifying processes through innovative workflows and intelligent design, enabling more efficient and personalized user experiences across enterprise functions. Solutions may also incorporate personalization across enterprise functions, as well as platforms that support both businesses and individuals in navigating modern productivity demands.

Winner of the Enterprise and Future of Work Technologies will be announced at the Award Ceremony, Saturday, March 14th at 6:30pm.

SXSW PITCH-ENTERPRISE AND FUTURE OF WORK


The Next Five Years of Private Markets: What Founders Can’t Afford to Miss

Nizar Tarhuni

Executive Vice President, Research & Market Intelligence

Nizar Tarhuni is Executive Vice President of Research and Market Intelligence at PitchBook Data, where he leads the firm’s global Institutional Research and News organizations. He oversees a team of more than 140 analysts and journalists worldwide delivering on investment strategy, fund performance, industry, and credit research, alongside a daily news product tailored to private market investors and advisors.

Under Tarhuni’s leadership, the department has built a comprehensive quantitative research function responsible for developing a robust suite of performance measurement, risk, and predictive analytics tools. These capabilities include a broad portfolio of investable indexes and fund benchmarks, portfolio forecasting models, liquidity and risk assessments, and performance forecasting tools that support institutional decision-making across private markets.

Tarhuni is credited with developing PitchBook’s first institutional-grade research product and has played a key role in expanding the firm’s research and news capabilities, including leading the acquisition of Leveraged Commentary & Data (LCD) from S&P. He is also responsible for managing PitchBook’s portfolio management software business, Lumonic, which the firm acquired in 2025.

As a member of PitchBook’s executive leadership team, Tarhuni leads the company’s market intelligence efforts, monitoring the competitive landscape, identifying strategic growth opportunities, and partnering across the leadership team on investment initiatives.

Tarhuni received a bachelor’s degree in economics and finance from Linfield University

Salon C

Launch with 0 Investors: A Playbook for Crowdfunding in 2026

Missionary Misfits: Why Not Belonging Makes You Build Better

How to Raise $$$ From Angel Groups: What We Really Look For

Reinvention Not Repetition: Shifting the Innovation Mindset

Private markets are no longer the exclusive domain of institutional giants. With retail investors entering the fold, liquidity reshaping exits, and new secondary structures emerging, the rules of the game are changing fast. For founders, this shift represents both an opportunity and a challenge: how to raise and scale in an environment that looks very different from even five years ago. Nizar Tarhuni, EVP of Research and Market Intelligence at PitchBook will unpack the key forces transforming private markets—and what they mean for startups in 2026 and beyond.

NEXT FIVE YEARS OF PRIVATE MARKETS: WHAT FOUNDERS CAN?T AFFORD TO MISS


Building an Artist Identity & Sustainable Content Strategy

John Edward Ross

Owner And Lead Producer

Owner and builder of Studio Sassafras, John Edward has worked in the music industry for over thirty years. He has produced hundreds of songs that have earned over a hundred million streams and won accolades such as the Hollywood Independent Music Awards and Houston Press Music Awards. Studio Sassafras is a place not only for excellent music production but also for emerging and mid-tier artist development. John Edward offers a scalable combination of music production and music business consultation.

Hannah Jans

Creative Director & Artist Management

Hannah Jans helps musicians grow their careers through artist management, social media strategy, content creation, and targeted advertising. She offers a hands-on, creative approach tailored to each client’s unique voice and vision. With a deep understanding of both the creative and business sides of the industry, Hannah’s mission is simple: help musicians turn their passion into a career, one song, one show, and one story at a time.

Guadalupe

What We’re Unlearning on Supporting Education Systems

Shaping Education in a Culture x Tech World

Independent Film Publicity: How to Earn Media Attention

Every artist has a story, but not every artist knows how to tell it consistently. This session explores how musicians can define their brand identity and build a sustainable content strategy that supports long-term growth. We’ll break down practical methods for clarifying your creative voice, designing visual and emotional cohesion, and developing a posting rhythm that amplifies your music without burning you out. Perfect for emerging and mid-level artists looking to strengthen their connection with fans, media, and industry partners.

BUILDING AN ARTIST IDENTITY & SUSTAINABLE CONTENT STRATEGY


Featured Session: The Culture Layer of Financial Markets

Tarek Mansour

Ceo And Co-Founder

Tarek Mansour is the co-founder and CEO of Kalshi. Raised in Lebanon, Tarek came to the United States to attend MIT, and worked briefly as a trader on Wall Street. While at Goldman Sachs he recognized the unmet demand for event-based financial contracts, leading him to start Kalshi, which has since become the world's largest prediction market, processing over $1b/week in trading volume and providing the most accurate odds of current and future events of any source in the world.

Salon 6-8

Featured Session: A Conversation With Spotify's New Co-CEO About The Past, Present And Future Of Delivering Creativity To The World

Featured Session: Shaping Brand Relevance for a New Generation

Featured Session: A Waste of Time with Larry David and Jeff Schaffer

Featured Session: Why Saying Yes to the Unthinkable Works

Featured Session: Albuquerque Aftermath: From Breaking Bad to Pluribus with Rhea Seehorn, Vince Gilligan, and Key Creatives

Prediction markets like Kalshi have added a dramatic twist to the world of finance. Now, everything, including the Oscars, Grammys, Rotten Tomatoes scores, video game releases, and even Dancing with the Stars winners have been turned into liquid financial markets where everyday people can make millions of dollars profiting from their passions. Tarek will discuss where culture fits into Kalshi, how the odds can be useful to businesses and decision-makers, and the platform's expansion plans to grow culture markets from a billion dollars to a trillion dollars.

FEATURED SESSION: THE CULTURE LAYER OF FINANCIAL MARKETS


Mentor Session: Benn Wiebe (HFP/Climate Refugees Pavilion)

Benn Wiebe

Owner/Vice Chairman

SXSW Grand Jury Prize Winner for Best Documentary. Produced Just Play Jam for SXSW.

Creative executive añd campaign strategist. Co-Author of Ubisoft’s Good Game Book. Convener of the UNFCCC Entertainment & Culture Climate Accord. Executive Producer of HFP.

Room 400-402

Mentor Session: Ali Tager (National Cryptocurrency Association)

Mentor Session: Aniesia Williams (dreambloc)

Mentor Session: Avantika Bagri (Centana Growth Partners)

Mentor Session: Brittan Heller (Stanford Law School)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Art, Business Development, Content Strategy/Production, "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion", Entrepreneurship, Ethics, Future of Work, Journalism, Marketing/Advertising/PR, Nonprofits, Policy, Product Management/Development, Storytelling, Sustainability.

MENTOR SESSION: BENN WIEBE (HFP/CLIMATE REFUGEES PAVILION)


Mentor Session: Graham Pechenik (Calyx Law)

Graham Pechenik

Founder

"Graham Pechenik is a registered patent attorney and the founder of Calyx Law, a law firm specializing in intellectual property for startups developing frontier technologies such as psychedelic therapeutics and artificial intelligence.

Graham has a BS from UCSD, where he chose his Cognitive Neuroscience and Biochemistry majors after his first psychedelic experiences inspired deep curiosity about the bases for changes in consciousness, and a JD from NYU, where he initially pursued interests in bioethics and cognitive liberty.

After a decade at large law firms representing Fortune 500 companies in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and technology industries, Graham started Calyx Law in 2016 to help cannabis and psychedelics ventures design and implement their IP strategies.

Graham is also editor-at-large of Psychedelic Alpha, a board member of the Psychedelic Bar Association, a member of Chacruna’s Council for Protection of Sacred Plants, and an advisor to numerous organizations and venture funds in the field of frontier mental health technologies. "

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in MedTech, Entrepreneurship, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning.

MENTOR SESSION: GRAHAM PECHENIK (CALYX LAW)


Mentor Session: Shondra Washington (TBC Capital)

Shondra Washington

Founder & CEO

Shondra Washington began her career as a professional dancer before moving into HR, with roles at Robert A.M. Stern Architects, AIG, and Jefferies. She later transitioned into tech investment banking at Jefferies, then founded TBC-Capital—a fractional CFO and accounting firm serving VC-backed companies and small businesses. Her firm has helped clients raise $40M+ and grow to nine figures in value. Shondra is also CEO and co-founder of Catalyst Labs, which has partnered with Andreessen Horowitz to support Black digital artists and with Benedict College on South Carolina’s first statewide investment accelerator. A former Costa Rica resident, she’s a world traveler, lover of Michelin-star meals, art enthusiast, and fashion researcher.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, Business Development.

MENTOR SESSION: SHONDRA WASHINGTON (TBC CAPITAL)


Mentor Session: Brandon Apparcel (Talentless AI)

Brandon Apparcel

COO

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Business Development, Content Strategy/Production, Marketing/Advertising/PR.

MENTOR SESSION: BRANDON APPARCEL (TALENTLESS AI)


Mentor Session: Dawson Simmons (Neon Coast )

Dawson Simmons

Management Coordinator

Dawson Simmons is an emerging music industry professional with a background in brand partnerships, artist management, and music marketing. The Georgia native currently serves as Management Coordinator at Neon Coast, supporting ACM Awards 2024 New Duo/Group of the Year nominee, Restless Road, 2x Gold-certified BBR/BMG recording artist Dylan Schneider, and Nashville-based indie alt-pop band Nightly.

Previously, Dawson was Manager of Talent Projects & Music Marketing at Results Global Agency (formerly 615 Leverage + Strategy), the agency of record for Dolly Parton. There, he led marketing initiatives and talent projects, contributed to brand licensing strategies, and served as a coordinating producer on several of Parton's New York Times bestselling books. He was also instrumental in the marketing of her landmark rock album, Rockstar, which debuted at #1 on six Billboard charts—her biggest release in a seven-decade career. His brand collaborations include work with Busch Light, HEYDUDE, Sonos, Stetson, and MAPCO, among others.

Tannehill

Global Stage @ Downright Austin Backyard

Mentor Session: Arnaecia Alridge (Methix)

Mentor Session: Isabella Uknis (Universal Music Publishing Group)

Mentor Session: Lauren Apolito (The Harry Fox Agency/Rumblefish )

Mentor Session: Max Christensen (Crunchy Frog/Crunchy Tunes)

Mentor Session: Noel Morrison (SiriusXM/Pandora)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Management, Streaming & Programming.

MENTOR SESSION: DAWSON SIMMONS (NEON COAST )


Mentor Session: Molly Sheban (SpinLab Communications)

Molly Sheban

Senior Director, Communications

Molly Sheban is the Senior Director of Communications at SpinLab Communications, a boutique agency specializing in corporate and brand communications across music, technology, and culture, with offices in Los Angeles and New York. In her role, Molly leads high-level communications strategy for global music and media companies, overseeing corporate positioning, executive thought leadership, product launches, and large-scale brand campaigns. Her current client roster includes WME, FL Studio, The Circuit Group, Splice, Create Music Group, broke records, and LabelWorx, with work resulting in earned coverage across top-tier outlets including Forbes, Bloomberg, The Washington Post, Fast Company, and Billboard.

Molly has led communications for several culturally significant artist releases and brand-defining projects. She ran PR for Ninajirachi’s widely acclaimed debut album 'I Love My Computer,' a breakout moment for the Australian producer that landed coverage in Pitchfork, NME, Paste, Dazed, and The Guardian. She also launched Marshmello’s pop-punk side project Underbrook, introducing a bold new creative chapter for one of the world’s most recognizable electronic artists, with features in Kerrang!, Rock Sound, and Billboard. She currently represents Alison Wonderland, supporting the release of her fourth studio album 'GHOST WORLD,' which has received attention in Rolling Stone, NPR, PAPER, and Forbes.

Prior to joining SpinLab, Molly served as Director of Public Relations at David Kim Projects, managing a diverse roster of electronic and crossover artists and labels, including deadmau5’s mau5trap and hau5trap, Zeds Dead, CloZee, Tchami, ATTLAS, Tommy Trash, and Slow Magic. She also held roles at Shore Fire Media, Atlantic Records’ Canvasback Records, and Live Nation.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Marketing/PR, Media/Journalism, Women in Music.

MENTOR SESSION: MOLLY SHEBAN (SPINLAB COMMUNICATIONS)


Mentor Session: Talia Rubino (Nettwerk Music Group)

Talia Rubino

Vice President, Head of Global Sync

Talia Rubino is an accomplished music executive with 17 years in Sync Licensing. She started her music career as an intern at Warner Music Group and was subsequently hired full time to handle sync for the label catalogs of Warner Records & Atlantic as well as publishing at Warner Chappell Music.
In 2024 she joined Canadian-based indie music company, Nettwerk Music Group, as the Global Head of Sync. In this role she oversees both creative and licensing across all medias and territories. She and her team work a roster of 300+ artists to secure sync placements and negotiate fees for their songs in Film, TV, Trailers, Commercials, Video Games, and Sports programming. Working closely with both A&R and marketing teams, she provides guidance and feedback on song development and album release strategies.
Talia has expansive knowledge of the sync landscape, strong relationships in the community, an understanding of the various sync deal types, and a keen ear to find the right song for the right projects. She is a proactive leader that aims to inspire, motivate and empower her team.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in A&R, Sync/Licensing, Publishing.

MENTOR SESSION: TALIA RUBINO (NETTWERK MUSIC GROUP)


Mentor Session: Mike Woronuk (Juneberry Ridge)

Mike Woronuk

Chief Strategy Officer

You're likely at SXSW because you're building something that matters (your company, your project, perhaps even yourself). You've reached a point where effort alone is no longer the issue.

You have ideas, momentum, and responsibility. What you may be missing is clarity.

Competing priorities, partial strategies, or a vision that feels bigger than your current systems can make forward motion harder than it should be. You need thinking that leads to action.

I'm a strategist and coach who works with founders, leaders, and creative operators at moments of transition or scale. My work sits at the intersection of brand, business, and long-term strategy, especially when things feel complex or stuck.

I currently serve as Chief Strategy Officer at Juneberry Ridge, a large regenerative farm and hospitality project in North Carolina where I help turn ambitious vision into durable execution. Through Raven Strategy Group, I also advise early-stage and mission-driven organizations on how to move from intuition to intentional strategy.

Earlier in my career, I worked inside global media, finance, and government organizations, which taught me how ideas succeed or fail once they meet real systems and constraints. I focus on helping people see the structure beneath what they already know and make decisions they can actually implement.

If you are navigating change, testing a bold idea, or trying to scale without losing your voice, I am especially energized by those conversations. I tend to ask good questions, challenge fuzzy thinking, and help you see what matters most next.

If that sounds useful, let’s talk.

Room 400-402

Mentor Session: Ali Tager (National Cryptocurrency Association)

Mentor Session: Aniesia Williams (dreambloc)

Mentor Session: Avantika Bagri (Centana Growth Partners)

Mentor Session: Brittan Heller (Stanford Law School)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Business Development, Entrepreneurship, Marketing/Advertising/PR.

MENTOR SESSION: MIKE WORONUK (JUNEBERRY RIDGE)

Brand & Marketing track sponsored by Youtube


Mentor Session: Alexa Disney (Duetti)

Alexa Disney

A&R/Studio Lead

Over the past decade, Alexa has dedicated herself to building brands and creating new revenue streams for artists of all sizes. Her innovative approach has garnered significant recognition, with her work featured in Billboard, Hypebeast, Rolling Stone, WWD, and Highsnobiety. She was profiled by The Source for her contributions to shaping the future of music streaming at TIDAL and was selected as one of 25 innovators nationwide in the inaugural Keychange U.S. Talent Development Program for championing gender equity and inclusion in music.

Throughout her career, Alexa has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including A Tribe Called Quest, Snoop Dogg, Meek Mill, P!NK, Jennifer Lopez, Megan Thee Stallion, DaBaby, and DJ Khaled, among others. Her ability to navigate various genres has positioned her as a key player in the music industry.

As A&R and Studio Lead at Duetti, Alexa helps financially empower artists through flexible, track-by-track catalog deals, enabling them to retain control of their careers without reliance on major labels. In addition to identifying and securing deals with artists, she is leading the build-out of Duetti’s first studio and overseeing its operations.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in A&R, Management, Women in Music.


Mentor Session: Marcela Murillo Trujano (RIMAS MUSIC)

Marcela Murillo Trujano

Artist Relations Lead

Marcela is a passionate music professional with an outstanding track record in the industry. Holding a degree in International Business from Tec de Monterrey and having gained experience at institutions such as McGill University, Singapore Management University, and Korea University, she has combined her academic knowledge with an innovative vision for music. She has also participated as a speaker at key events such as FIM PRO, SIM São Paulo, Fluvial Chile, Indie Week Canada, and MIDEM.
She was the founder of Selective Hearing, a management agency focused on the strategic development of artists, where she worked with talents like Santa Fe Klan, helping him become the most-streamed hip-hop artist on Spotify Mexico and securing his participation on the Black Panther 2 soundtrack.
In 2021, she joined Prajin Parlay, where she was part of the management team for projects with artists such as Peso Pluma, Jasiel Nuñez, and Tito Doble P. She played a key role in Peso Pluma’s success, achieving major industry milestones, including a Grammy for the album Génesis, sold-out concerts in over 40 countries during the 2023 U.S. tour, and placing two global hits on Spotify (La Bebé and Ella Baila Sola).
Currently, Marcela is Artist Relations Lead at Rimas Entertainment, a record label with a presence in San Juan, Spain, and Mexico, recognized for promoting Latin music and signing artists like Bad Bunny, Eladio Carrión, and Arcángel. In her role, she focuses on developing Mexican talent, working closely with artists such as Latin Mafia.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Management, A&R, Women in Music.

MENTOR SESSION: MARCELA MURILLO TRUJANO (RIMAS MUSIC)


Mentor Session: Laura Haykel (iFlourish Consulting LLC)

Laura Haykel

iFlourish Consulting - Ignite Intimacy Podcast

Founder

With 25+ years in sales, Laura Haykel is the founder of iFlourish Consulting, helping startups and small businesses refine systems, connect with ideal clients, and grow. A strategic yet intuitive business development executive, she blends clear processes with a deep understanding of people, delivering impeccable customer service and long-term, values-driven partnerships. Laura also offers Experience Audits, evaluating the customer journey to ensure alignment with brand promises. A TEDx and SXSW speaker, producer of 8 original songs, and former host of the Ignite Intimacy Podcast, she co-founded Inclusive Conversations and leads workshops that foster connection, confidence, and transformation. Her work spans business, creativity, and community.

MENTOR SESSION: LAURA HAYKEL (IFLOURISH CONSULTING LLC)


Round Table: Acting: Alexandra Barreto, Alyssa Rodriguez, and Rider Strong

Alyssa Rodriguez

Actress

Alyssa is a professional SAG-Aftra actress and pro makeup artist. A Houston native, she spent the last 12 years in Los Angeles curating a career in front of and behind the camera. Most notable performances include guest stars on Grey’s Anatomy, Longmire, 9-1-1 Lonestar & Shameless, as well as Curb Your Enthusiasm, Silicon Valley & Jane the Virgin. She’s appeared in commercials for Walmart & Toyota and voiced nearly a dozen Netflix & Amazon series. Her latest role was in Houston’s STAGE’S Sin Muros Latinx Theatre Festival. When not acting, she glams clients for headshots & weddings.  She’s a U of H Journalism alum (Magna Cum Laude), teaches self-tape audition workshops & scene study. She wants to share her last fifteen years of real, working-actor experience with artists who are serious about developing a career that is as successful as it is fulfilling. She hopes to inspire, mentor and help up and coming actors in all markets of how to be a valuable asset in any role.

Rider Strong

Filmmaker, Podcaster

Rider Strong began his career as an actor, best known for his roles on Boy Meets World and the cult horror film, Cabin Fever. Moving behind the camera, Rider’s written and directed short films that played over 60 festivals worldwide and he returned to his roots, this time as a director, for three seasons of the Emmy-nominated Girl Meets World. His play Never Ever Land premiered at Theatre Unleashed in Los Angeles in the fall of 2019. He is the creator and co-host of the podcasts Literary Disco and Pod Meet World, the latter of which has garnered over 40 million downloads and spawned a national tour.

Alexandra Barreto

Actor, Producer, Director

Alexandra Barreto has been working on sets for over twenty years as an actress, writer, producer and director.

Alexandra’s directorial debut, “Lady Hater,” premiered at the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival, and was named “Top 5 Not-to-be Missed Shorts from the Tribeca Film Festival,” by FORBES. She directed the Audible Original Series, “Cut and Run,” starring Meg Ryan, Rachel Bloom and Sam Richardson. She wrote and directed a horror/comedy short film, “Welcome to the 90s,” for Shudder Anthology feature, SCARE PACKAGE 2: RAD CHAD’S REVENGE.

Alexandra recently produced the Sundance supported feature film, LATE BLOOMERS, starring Karen Gillan. The film was released by Vertical Entertainment in theaters and VOD. An earlier feature she produced, TOO LATE, starring Academy Award Nominees John Hawkes and Robert Forster was released theatrically and secured a worldwide deal with Netflix.

As an actress she’s guest starred and/or recurred on television shows spanning all genres from “Justified” to “Parenthood” to, most recently, recurring on CW’s “All American, and FX’s ‘Mayans MC,” and a five year run on “The Fosters.” She’s currently recurring on Amazon’s “Ballard.”

She is a Film Independent, IFP and Sundance Institute Creative Producing Fellow.

Representative

Round Table: Programming: Landon Zakheim, Monica Garcia Massague, and R.J. LaForce

Round Table: Sales, Acquisitions, and Distribution: Amy Beecroft, Joe Yanick, and Shaked Berenson

Round Table: Producing: Ashleigh Snead, Kelly Williams, and Liz Cardenas

Round Table: Development: Carolina Tamez and Henry Kittredge

Round Table: Narrative Filmmaking: Adam Hoelzel, Jessica M. Thompson, and Paul Gandersman

An extension of our popular Mentor Sessions, our Round Table Sessions not only allow attendees to learn from the industry experts that sit at each of the three tables in this session but they also allow attendees to learn from the questions and experiences of their peers as well. This Round Table Session will bring together industry experts and SXSW attendees for an enlightening discussion on Acting.

ROUND TABLE: ACTING: ALEXANDRA BARRETO, ALYSSA RODRIGUEZ, AND RIDER STRONG


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: Sonja O’Hara

Sonja O'Hara

Emmy-Nominated Filmmaker

Sonja O’Hara is an Emmy-nominated queer Canadian genre writer, director, and actor who was selected as a “Filmmaker To Watch” by Independent Magazine. Past recipients include Moonlight’s Barry Jenkins. O'Hara's debut feature Root Letter (TUBI) stars Danny Ramirez and received the ReFrame Award. She is set to direct Harvey Keitel, and Rita Moreno in her upcoming psychological thriller, Theirs. O'Hara created the Emmy-nominated Shudder limited series Doomsday, described by Indiewire as, “Part Midsommar, part Yellowjackets, promising salvation in the sexiest and scariest way possible.” O'Hara is a Film Independent Fellow and was selected as one of ten narrative filmmakers for their 2024 FastTrack program. Other notable filmmakers who have participated include Ana Lily Amirpour, Sean Baker, Lana Wilson, and Chloé Zhao. O'Hara has served as a panelist at SXSW, as well as a Filmmaker mentor. She is represented by VERVE Talent & Literary Agency and Gotham Group.

Executive Room

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Jenny Bloom (Bloomerang PR)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Lisa Trifone (Bright Iris Film Co.)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Maddy Bilder (26 Keys Productions)

Programming Mentor Session: Boram Park (Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival)

Programming Mentor Session: Haojie Huang (Kaohsiung Film Festival)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Agents & Managers, Narrative Filmmakers, Acting.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: SONJA O?HARA


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: Rick Castaneda (Vibrant Penguin)

J. Rick Castañeda

Director/Producer

Writer, director, and founder of Vibrant Penguin. Rick directs and produces large-scale productions such as TV series (LEGO, VENN TV) feature films (All Sorts, Cement Suitcase), live game shows (Twitch, Red Bull) and marketing content (LEGO, Riot Games, USC). He wrote and directed Coma, Period. starring Rob Delaney, as well as web series pilots for Disney and MSN. Rick's films have screened at SXSW, Seattle International Film Festival, Short Shorts, Raindance, Dances with Films, and the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival. He's directed and produced numerous commercials and promo videos. He's directed projects in Korea, England, Germany, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Egypt, and the UAE. He is currently directing the Red Bull New Game live-streaming show for Red Bull, and various marketing content for LEGO.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Producers/Production, Narrative Filmmakers, VR/XR Filmmaking.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: RICK CASTANEDA (VIBRANT PENGUIN)


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: Cris Gris

Cris Gris

TV & Film Director/Writer

Cris Gris is a Mexican filmmaker with an MFA in directing and screenwriting from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Her films have screened internationally at prestigious festivals, including La Semaine de la Critique, Festival de Cannes. Gris has written and directed music videos nominated by MTV Latin America for “Video of the Year.” Her short San Miguel received the Spike Lee Film Production Fund, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association Fellows Fund, a National Board of Review grant, and the Screenwriting Wasserman King Award.

Her short Alma y Paz won the Special Jury Award at the Morelia International Film Festival and premiered internationally at Berlinale’s 72nd edition. Gris is a Film Independent Project Involve fellow and a Sundance Institute Screenwriter and Director Lab Fellow. She directed three episodes of VGLY, an HBO Max comedy on trap music (2023), one of the platform’s most successful Mexican productions.

Cris directed three episodes of Amazon's Prime Video series adaptation of the best-selling Argentinian novel Cometierra (Eartheater), and also directed three episodes of VGLY’s second season which just premiered on HBO Max. She is currently developing, alongside showrunner Adriana Pelusi and actor Adam DiMarco, The Incompetent, a feature film set in Mexico City.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Development, Narrative Filmmakers, Screenwriting.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: CRIS GRIS


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: Michael Cuomo (Brooklyn Owl Pictures)

Michael Cuomo

Producer

MICHAEL CUOMO is an award-winning actor and producer for film, television and theater. Michael most recently produced “Brooklyn, Minnesota” (dirs: Jessica Blank & Erik Jensen) starring Academy Award nominee Amy Madigan, Sadie Jensen-Blank, Erik Jensen and Cullen Moss. “Brooklyn, Minnesota” premiered at Woodstock '24, taking home the Ultra Indie Award and the NYWIFT Award for Excellence in Directing. He is currently in post-production on “American Summer” (dir: Michael W. Gray) which stars Steve Guttenberg, Christie Brinkley, Dan Lauria, Cullen Moss, Logan Gray and Mia Tallerico. He also produced the dramatic feature films What Breaks the Ice (dir: Rebecca Eskreis) and The Light of the Moon (dir: Jessica M. Thompson; SXSW Audience Award). Both films were released theatrically and are now streaming. Michael also starred in and produced the critically acclaimed feature film Happy New Year (dir: K Lorrel Manning), which premiered at the SXSW and Hamptons International Film Festivals, garnering strong reviews and winning six awards including Cuomo for Best Actor and Manning for Breakout Director. Other Recent Film/TV include: Nanny, Sundance Grand Jury Prize (dir. Nikyatu Jusu; Amazon), Life & Beth (dir. Amy Schumer; Hulu), Billions (dir. Shaz Bennet; Showtime), The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (dir. Amy Sherman-Palladino; Amazon), Orange is the New Black (dir. Nick Sandow; Netflix) and Daniel Isn’t Real (dir. Adam Egypt Mortimer; Samuel Goldwyn). Michael was recently awarded the Ambassador Award at the 40th Rhode Island International Film Festival. He lives in Brooklyn, NY where he recently launched Brooklyn Owl Pictures.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Narrative Filmmakers, Acting, "Sales, Acquisitions, & Distribution".

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: MICHAEL CUOMO (BROOKLYN OWL PICTURES)


Mentor Session: Randy Ojeda (Randy Ojeda Law)

Randy Ojeda

Managing Attorney

Randy Ojeda is a music and entertainment attorney and the founder of Randy Ojeda Law, focused on helping artists, producers, and managers protect their rights and build sustainable careers in today’s independent music landscape.

Tannehill

Global Stage @ Downright Austin Backyard

Mentor Session: Arnaecia Alridge (Methix)

Mentor Session: Isabella Uknis (Universal Music Publishing Group)

Mentor Session: Lauren Apolito (The Harry Fox Agency/Rumblefish )

Mentor Session: Max Christensen (Crunchy Frog/Crunchy Tunes)

Mentor Session: Noel Morrison (SiriusXM/Pandora)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Contracts & Agreements, IP & Copyright, Sync/Licensing.

MENTOR SESSION: RANDY OJEDA (RANDY OJEDA LAW)


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: David Garcia (Conquistador, LLC)

David Garcia

Director / Screenwriter

David is an Emmy award-winning Director / DP who was born and raised on the South Texas border. He caught the filmmaking bug at a young age when he discovered the family VHS camera and began directing his little brother in homemade action movies. He attended film school at the University of Texas and remained in Austin to cut his teeth in the independent film scene where he lensed 6 feature films and directed everything from national TV spots to hundreds of product and branded content commercials in over a dozen countries on five continents for clients such as Verizon, Dell, Lenovo, Fisher Price, Air Hogs, T Mobile and Firestone to name a few.

In 2015, David pursued a project that would both draw on his personal experience and showcase the rich Latinx culture of South Texas. Inspired by Texas filmmaking legend, Robert Rodriguez, he returned to his hometown with a crew of 8 to direct his debut feature film, TEJANO that had its world premiere in 2018 where it took home the Audience Award from the Dallas International Film Festival and has been well received at numerous film festivals throughout the world and was acquired by HBO in 2020.

In 2021, Legendary hand-picked David to direct an installment of the iconic horror franchise, TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE that would go on to have a successful premiere on Netflix in 2022 amassing more than 29M hours of viewership in its first week.

Liberty

Agents & Managers Mentor Session: Olivia Mascheroni (Verve Talent & Literary Agency)

Legal Mentor Session: Fabio de Sa Cesnik (CQS FV Law Firm)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: RJ Millard (Obscured Pictures)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Traci Hanlon (Cinergy Entertainment)

Programming Mentor Session: CC Hutten (TED Conferences)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Narrative Filmmakers, Screenwriting, Producers/Production.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: DAVID GARCIA (CONQUISTADOR, LLC)


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: Kimberly Stuckwisch (Going Rogue Films)

Kimberly Stuckwisch

Writer/Director/Producer/Clown

A clown-hearted drifter dreaming up weird wonders that make her mama proud.

Aka…

Kimberly Stuckwisch is an award-winning writer/director working across film, commercials, theatre, and music. Known for mixing magical realism with the grit of everyday life, her work has been celebrated at Cannes, Sundance, TIFF, SXSW, Camerimage, The Clios, UKMVAs, MTV (RIP) and theatre venues around the world.

She came up AD’ing and second unit directing indie features—her “DIY film school”—before breaking out with celebrated videos for Broken Bells, Samm Henshaw, and Pearl Derringer. Some cool credits include Olivia Rodrigo’s viral SOUR PROM sensation, Angel Olsen’s BIG TIME short film, campaigns for SkinnyPop, Meg Thee Stallion + Walmart, Bose’s “Turn the Dial,” fashion films for Moschino…. And she also produced for Bob Dylan.

If that weren’t all… she is the co-founder/board president of The Elysian Theater and is in pre-production on her second feature, THE PERFECT GIRL with Desmar Films.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: KIMBERLY STUCKWISCH (GOING ROGUE FILMS)


Mentor Session: Ryan McKay (Bandcamp/ Songtradr/ Massive Music)

Ryan McKay

Director, Content Partnerships

I've been in the music industry for the past 25 years, first as a touring DJ and a music producer. Then, I founded a startup called Pretzel, which was acquired by Songtradr in April 2021. Since then, I have worked at the Songtradr Group as their Director of Music Supply and now Content Partnerships. It's my job to make sure all of the Record Labels, Publishers, and Distributors are more than happy with their relationship with Songtradr and our services. This includes our Bandcamp, 7Digital and Massive Music.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Music Tech, Sync/Licensing, A&R.

MENTOR SESSION: RYAN MCKAY (BANDCAMP/ SONGTRADR/ MASSIVE MUSIC)


Mentor Session: Sam Cope (FUGA)

Samantha Cope

Sam Cope is the Director of Digital Accounts Strategy, Americas, for world-leading B2B music distributor, FUGA - a part of Downtown Music.

Based in New York, Sam has had a prolific career spanning over 10 years within the music industry and across all areas of music streaming. With previous roles at SoundCloud, Live Nation (as part of their in-house YouTube MCN) and HITCO, a record label founded by LA Reid, Sam has mastered the intricacies of global DSPs. She has comprehensive insight into how to utilize built-in marketing tools of each music streaming service to best serve content and campaign objectives.

Joining FUGA in 2020 as the Streaming & Label Manager for North America, Sam quickly progressed to become the Director of Digital Accounts Strategy for the Americas, where she oversees DSP relationships and pitching for US, as well as leading FUGA’s Digital Accounts Strategy Team in the Americas.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Streaming & Programming, Marketing/PR, Distribution.


I Bottled My Mother: The Mrs. Meyer's Story by Monica Nassif

Monica Nassif

Founder & Former CEO

Salon A

The Creative Power of Letting Go: Why Quitting Can Be Your Biggest Breakthrough

Charmageddon: Robots That Steal Hearts and Jobs

Shortchanged: Gen Z, the Economy, and Brands

SWIFTYNOMICS: How Women Mastermind and Redefine Our Economy

Monica Nassif didn’t just build a brand—she bottled a legacy.
I Bottled My Mother is the gritty, hilarious, heartfelt origin story behind Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day, the cult-favorite cleaning line inspired by Monica’s real-life mom, Thelma Meyer: a whip-smart, no-nonsense Midwesterner who raised nine children with little more than elbow grease, common sense, and a garden full of vegetables. Part startup manual, part memoir, this is the candid story of how one woman turned domestic skills into corporate strategy, and a small soap company into a household name.

I BOTTLED MY MOTHER: THE MRS. MEYER'S STORY BY MONICA NASSIF


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: Kelley Kali (Kaliwood Entertainment Inc.)

Kelley Kali

Film Director/Producer and CEO

Kelley Kali, a Los Angeles native and alumna of Howard University and USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, is an award-winning director, writer, producer, and humanitarian whose work spans Belize, Haiti, China, and the U.S. She launched her career with National Geographic before becoming the only woman selected to direct Belize’s first Creole dramatic series, earning the Paul Robeson Award. Her Student Academy Award-winning Lalo’s House and her Special Jury Award–winning SXSW feature I’M FINE (Thanks for Asking), now streaming globally and rated 90% on Rotten Tomatoes, earned international acclaim. She has since directed Jagged Mind for 20th/Hulu and the MPI/BET film Kemba, which screened at the U.S. Capitol and ignited national dialogue. Kelley received the Academy Gold Fellowship for Women, Sundance’s Amplify Award, and an NAACP Image Award nomination. She is dedicated to mentoring emerging creators and using cinema to elevate marginalized communities.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Acting, Doc Filmmakers, Narrative Filmmakers, Producers/Production, Screenwriting, Development.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: KELLEY KALI (KALIWOOD ENTERTAINMENT INC.)


The Masters: A Digital Experience Unlike Any Other

Kameryn Stanhouse

VP, Sports And Entertainment Partnerships

Kameryn joined IBM in June 2025 and is responsible for leading the strategy related to IBM’s global sponsorship portfolio, which includes iconic partnerships with the US Open (tennis), The Masters, Scuderia Ferrari, UFC, The GRAMMYs, Wimbledon, and more.

IBM has a long history of delivering next-generation digital experiences for some of the world’s most revered sports and entertainment events and venues. IBM’s sports partnerships are centered around engaging with fans digitally, and utilizing data in new ways, with the same AI, hybrid cloud and security technology leveraged by its enterprise clients.

Most recently, she was the Cofounder and Strategic Advisor of O’House Productions, a sports consulting, creative development, and talent management agency committed to empowering athletes, brands, and storytellers through authentic connection and purpose-driven growth. Prior to founding O’House, Kameryn led Corporate and Brand Partnerships at POLITICO, where she forged strategic industry collaborations, drove record-breaking sales, and secured multimillion-dollar sponsorships with Fortune 500 companies.

Earlier in her career at Under Armour, Kameryn played a pivotal role in leading global marketing for the Women’s brand. She was instrumental in developing the groundbreaking I Will What I Want campaign, which won the Cannes Lions Grand Prix.

Salon D

Designing the Future of Human Performance

The Companies Building and Automating Space's Superhighway

What AI Agents Are Doing While You're Not Watching

The New Lab Partner: AI and Future Scientific Discovery

Humanoid Robots Are Clocking In: Meet Who’s Putting Them To Work

Description TBD

MASTERS: A DIGITAL EXPERIENCE UNLIKE ANY OTHER


Mentor Session: Shawn DuBravac (Avrio Institute)

Shawn DuBravac

CEO & President

Dr. Shawn DuBravac is a futurist, economist, and New York Times bestselling author who helps today’s leaders anticipate tomorrow’s world. With a signature mix of data, storytelling, and strategic insight, Shawn helps organizations turn complexity into clarity.
From AI and automation to the future of work and the quirks of global markets, Shawn equips audiences to lead with confidence. His talks are fast-paced and insight-packed, connecting global trends to practical business decisions.
But don’t let the bowtie fool you. Shawn isn’t your typical numbers guy. He shows audiences not just what’s coming, but what to do about it.
For two decades, he’s been a trusted voice on tech, innovation, and the evolving economy. His presentations cut through noise and hype, delivering fact-based foresight with provocative storytelling. He’s helped leaders in industries ranging from healthcare and finance to agriculture and manufacturing prepare for what’s next.
Shawn’s insights have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and many other leading publications. He’s known for identifying second-order effects, spotting what others miss, and turning complexity into actionable strategy. A former Chief Strategy Officer at Apple said DuBravac, “works at the epicenter of technology and society...when he talks, I listen.” It’s that rare mix of clarity, curiosity, and credibility that makes Shawn a trusted voice for the future.

Room 400-402

Mentor Session: Ali Tager (National Cryptocurrency Association)

Mentor Session: Aniesia Williams (dreambloc)

Mentor Session: Avantika Bagri (Centana Growth Partners)

Mentor Session: Brittan Heller (Stanford Law School)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Storytelling, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Future of Work.

MENTOR SESSION: SHAWN DUBRAVAC (AVRIO INSTITUTE)


Women in Film & Televison Austin Hosts Connect & Collaborate

Taylor Ellison

President

Taylor Ellison is an Emmy Award–winning television host, producer, and meditationguide with more than a decade of on-air experience. Based in Austin, she created and executive produced Austin After Hours, a Lone Star Emmy–winning late-night entertainment show on CBS Austin. She was the former co-host of We Are Austin, a daily live lifestyle show, where she connected with viewers through inspiring interviews, uplifting stories, and community spotlights.

She has covered red carpets for E! News, hosted live at Formula 1, interviewed talent at press junkets from Los Angeles to New York, and produced and hosted a web series for Electrify News, among other creative ventures. She is currently developing a new television project that blends her passion for storytelling with her love of holistic living.

Outside of the studio, Taylor facilitates meditation classes and events throughout Austin. She also works one-on-one with clients, helping cultivate self-compassion and intentional living practices. Passionate about uplifting voices in the arts and media, Taylor serves on the boards of the Paramount Theatre and Women in Film & Television Austin. She also co-chaired the host committee for the ConnectHER Film Festival, an annual celebration of young female filmmakers.

You can follow Taylor on Instagram at @taylok, read her recent interview with Gary Clark Jr. and Nicole Trunfio for TRIBEZA, or revisit past seasons of Austin After Hours on YouTube. A proud Texas Longhorn, Taylor loves cheering on her alma mater, listening to live music, singing karaoke at Ego’s, enjoying margaritas on a sunny Austin patio and trying to help spread a little more joy.

Erica Deiparine-Sugars

Advisory Board Member

Erica Deiparine-Sugars has dedicated over 20 years to working with independent media makers and media arts communities, championing diverse voices and storytelling.  As the former Senior Director of Programs at Austin Film Society, she led filmmaker grants, artist development initiatives, and fostered industry partnership.  Prior to AFS, Erica was the Managing Director of Programming and Production at ITVS, supporting independently produced documentaries for public media.  Erica has participated on funding panels and film juries for regional and national film festivals and organizations.

Whitis

Make it in Texas! Film, TV and Digital Media Meet Up

Film & TV Audience and Community Building Meet Up

Latine/x Voices in Film: Creatives Meet-Up!

Women in Film & Television Austin hosts Connect & Collaborate, a meet-and-greet meant to be a fun pause in the day where creatives come together. It’s about conversation and community.

WOMEN IN FILM & TELEVISON AUSTIN HOSTS CONNECT & COLLABORATE


Narrative Filmmakers Mentor Session: Georg Kallert (Lodger Films Inc)

Georg Kallert

Director/Producer

Georg Kallert grew up in Miami Beach where he started in TV production at the local ABC affiliate. After working at Warner Home Video, he co-founded Lodger Films in Los Angeles in 2006. Lodger reached critical mass producing music videos, shorts, web series and commercial branded content for major studios, brands, and media partners. He and his team have produced all twenty three seasons of Variety Studio: Actors on Actors, which has won three Emmys. On the feature front, Georg went full zombie producing DOC OF THE DEAD (SXSW 2013) and continued with genre inspired fare with psychological thriller SUN CHOKE, the absurdist comedy UNCLE KENT 2 (SXSW 2015), and the Sci-Fi mind bender ULTRASOUND. Recently, Georg directed and produced documentary content including an environmental series about Southern California, OFF THE BEATEN PATH, the Emmy winning special WOMEN OF FIRE, short films for REWILDING AMERICA NOW, and a film about the coyotes releasing in April 2026.

Liberty

Agents & Managers Mentor Session: Olivia Mascheroni (Verve Talent & Literary Agency)

Legal Mentor Session: Fabio de Sa Cesnik (CQS FV Law Firm)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: RJ Millard (Obscured Pictures)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Traci Hanlon (Cinergy Entertainment)

Programming Mentor Session: CC Hutten (TED Conferences)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Doc Filmmakers, Narrative Filmmakers, Producers/Production.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKERS MENTOR SESSION: GEORG KALLERT (LODGER FILMS INC)


Mentor Session: Deepa Lakshmin (Lonely Planet)

Deepa Lakshmin

Director of Social Media

Deepa Lakshmin is a writer and editor based in New York City who's covered everything from travel to entertainment to politics. She's currently the director of social media at Lonely Planet, leading social strategy and programming content for an audience of 13 million travelers who follow @lonelyplanet across channels. She was previously the managing editor of Meta (formerly Facebook) and Instagram's B2B content marketing blogs. As a journalist, she’s written for National Geographic, MTV News, Vox, Inverse, and NYLON – plus managed both organic and paid social for The Daily Beast, Atlas Obscura, and Tribeca Film Festival, among others.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Content Strategy/Production, Journalism, Storytelling.

MENTOR SESSION: DEEPA LAKSHMIN (LONELY PLANET)


Mentor Session: Cat How (How&How)

Cat How

Founder, CEO & Executive Creative Director

"Cat How is Founder, CEO and Exec. Creative Director of How&How—a global branding agency with offices in London and LA. A former award-winning arts journalist and design critic, Cat went on to study at Central Saint Martins and set up How&How in 2020. Her agency is on a mission to liberate ideas the world deserves.
Cat has set up a pro-bono climate initiative called GetSet; a female leadership mentorship program called GetEven; and is a mentor for D&AD Shift and Women in Tech. She has judged multiple design awards; and has spoken about entrepreneurship, equality and design at Conferences and Summits around the world."

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Marketing/Advertising/PR, Content Strategy/Production.


Mentor Session: Justin Nguyen (Declassified Media)

Justin Nguyen

Founder/President

Justin is the Founder of Declassified Media, a company that helps students navigate the world of college with their free content. He also co-hosts the How Creators Make Money podcast. Each month, Declassified creates content for it’s 450,000 followers and reaches over 10million students. Justin is also a sought after international keynote speaker previously speaking at events like SXSW EDU, SXSW, GITEX Dubai, and Connect 2021: Global Early Talent Summit. Currently, Justin is also building Always Be Creating, a community for Asian content creators and Asian professionals within the Creator Economy.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Entrepreneurship, Future of Work, Marketing/Advertising/PR, Storytelling.

MENTOR SESSION: JUSTIN NGUYEN (DECLASSIFIED MEDIA)


Artist Demo Listening Session (Pop) Part 1 Presented by Discovr Radio

Kevin Breuner

Head of Artist Development & Education

Kevin Breuner, currently serving as the Head of Artist Development & Education at BandLab Technologies, brings over 25 years of experience in the music industry. His career encompasses roles both as a recording artist with the Atlanta-based band Smalltown Poets and as an industry professional. With Smalltown Poets, the band has sold 300,000 albums, received a Grammy nomination, and produced ten Top 10 radio hits, including two #1 songs. Additionally, Kevin’s music has been featured by Peacock, ABC, the NFL, and the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. Previously, Kevin played a pivotal role in marketing at CD Baby and developed the DIY Musician brand, focusing on content for musicians. Now at BandLab Technologies, he is dedicated to advancing new opportunities in creator development.

Sarah Nagourney

Platinum-Selling Songwriter/Producer and Host of She Creates Noise Podcast

Platinum-selling songwriter and producer Sarah Nagourney is a singular creative voice whose work bridges emotional depth with commercial impact. Known for helping artists shape songs that feel both intimate and timeless, Nagourney has become a trusted collaborator across pop, alternative, and beyond, bringing originality, instinct, and lived experience to every project she touches.
Oxford-educated and fiercely authentic, Nagourney’s songwriting is informed by a life lived well outside the studio. Her path has included singing with jazz legend Chet Baker, appearing in Woody Allen films, working as a private investigator, and living in Andy Warhol’s former Factory. These unconventional experiences fuel a lyrical perspective that is observant, cinematic, and grounded in truth—qualities that consistently set her work apart in a trend-driven industry.

Nagourney has written with a veritable who’s who of the music world, including Steve Booker (Duffy, Nick Jonas), Larzz Principato (Halsey), Liam O’Donnell (The Chainsmokers, Fall Out Boy), Chris Rodriguez (Wynonna Judd), Brian Kierulf (Lady Gaga), Polina Goudieva (Felix Jaehn, Eminem), Steve Diamond (Eric Clapton, Britney Spears), Steve Daly (Pink, JLS), Jasper Leak (Sia), Phil Thornalley (The Cure, Bryan Adams), Southside Johnny, and Chris Difford of Squeeze. Her ability to meet artists where they are—while pushing them creatively—has made her a sought-after collaborator across continents.

In recent years, Nagourney has remained creatively prolific, writing regularly in London, Los Angeles, Nashville, and New York, and collaborating with both established and emerging artists including Emma Rae, Isabella Dussias, Charlie Brennan, Isabella Kensington, and Charlie Mindich. Her work also includes writing with managing and developing young talent, notably Meg Smith—whose breakout releases have amassed tens of millions of streams—and Alec Chambers, reflecting a long-term commitment to artist development alongside commercial success. Her work has amassed tens of millions of streams, with placements across major streaming platforms, television, and high-profile editorial playlists, while also contributing to long-term artist development and award-winning outcomes.

Beyond songwriting, Nagourney is the creator and host of She Creates Noise, a bi-monthly podcast centered on women working across the music industry. Launched in 2025 and now entering Season 2, the podcast offers listeners an honest, behind-the-scenes look at how the music business truly works. Through intimate, one-on-one conversations with women on both sides of the desk—from artists and producers to managers and label executives—Nagourney shifts the narrative away from obstacles and toward excellence, leadership, and impact. Featured guests include Kate Hyman (former VP at BMG, Warner, and Chrysalis), Rachael Yamagata, and other influential voices shaping the industry today. With She Creates Noise, Nagourney continues to amplify stories that deserve to be heard, using her platform to celebrate the women who are actively moving music forward.

Music Clubhouse

Vibrating Music Hammocks

Parker Hertzberger - Multisensory sound installations

Artist Demo Listening Sessions, Presented by Discovr Radio, at SXSW are an interactive format where attendees have the opportunity to play demos for music experts, sparking real-time feedback and meaningful industry connections. You must be present to have your music in the running to be heard! SXSW attendees not having demos played are encouraged to attend and listen in on the fun! Each session will be followed up a social hour. Physical submissions will not be accepted at the door. Demo’s will be played on a first-come, first-served basis and attendees must submit their demo’s prior to the day of the session  by 11:59pm.  Please carefully read and fill out the form below to officially submit your demo: https://airtable.com/appYFNh7bkKd8nmwh/pagfBEWaVPizme5jr/form

ARTIST DEMO LISTENING SESSION (POP) PART 1 PRESENTED BY DISCOVR RADIO

Discovr Radio

Discovr is an artist-focused service that lets musicians and songwriters have their music played on radio station streams, alongside broadcast programming. Artists, labels, managers, and distributors can use Discovr to upload tracks and have them inserted into radio streams – in place of ad interruptions – through faidr, a radio streaming app. Once a track has been approved, Discovr customers can monitor listener engagement and behavior through a robust analytics dashboard.

Artist Demo Listening Session (Hip-Hop/Rap/R&B) Part 2 Presented by Discovr Radio

Artist Demo Listening Session (Pop) Part 2 Presented by Discovr Radio

Artist Demo Listening Session (Music for Sync) Presented by Discovr Radio

Artist Demo Listening Session (Hip-Hop/Rap/R&B) Part 1 Presented by Discovr Radio

Artist Demo Listening Session (Indie/Rock/Alt) Presented by Discovr Radio


Featured Session: Jamie Lee Curtis. If Not Now, When, if Not Me, Who? Pivoting and Manifesting!

Jamie Lee Curtis

Producer/Actor

Jamie Lee Curtis has built a nearly five-decade acting career that has only shined more brightly with time. She is also a passionate humanitarian and popular children’s book author, she has earned critical acclaim, major industry honors, and the admiration of generations of fans.

In Everything Everywhere All at Once in 2022, she won the Academy Award and SAG Award for Best Supporting Actress, along with Golden Globe and Independent Spirit Award nominations. In 2024, she earned an Emmy for her guest-star appearance on the acclaimed Hulu series The Bear and an Emmy nomination in the same category the following year.  In 2021, she received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival.

Curtis recently appeared in Freakier Friday (2025), the 22-years-in-the-making sequel to Disney’s Freaky Friday, for which she previously earned a Golden Globe nomination. Other standout roles include True Lies (1994), for which she won a Golden Globe; Trading Places (1983), which earned her a BAFTA (British Film Academy Award); and A Fish Called Wanda (1988), which garnered both BAFTA and Golden Globe nominations.

Curtis’ film debut in the 1978 horror classic Halloween brought her to international attention. She returned for the record-breaking 2018 sequel, whose opening weekend was the biggest debut ever for a movie featuring a female lead over age 55. That success was followed by Halloween Kills (2021) and Halloween Ends (2022). Other film credits include Ella McCay,  Knives Out; Christmas with the Kranks; The Tailor of Panama; Blue Steel; My Girl; and My Girl 2, among many others. Television highlights include two seasons of Scream Queens, for which she received a Golden Globe nomination; the acclaimed sitcom Anything but Love, bringing her a Golden Globe and People’s Choice Award; TNT’s adaptation of The Heidi Chronicles, earning her a Golden Globe nomination; and the CBS television film Nicholas’ Gift, for which she received an Emmy nomination.

In 2019, Curtis formed Comet Pictures, a film, television, and podcast production company. Comet's upcoming projects include the Amazon Prime Video series Scarpetta with Blumhouse starring Nicole Kidman and Curtis, which debuts in March 2026. Their most recent production, released in September 2025, was The Lost Bus for Apple Original Films, which Curtis co-produced with Jason Blum, with whom she has a first look deal.

She has also produced STOP THE INSANITY the Susan Powter story and SENDER which is having its World Premiere in competition at SXSW.

She was founder and CEO of My Hand In Yours, a charitable organization that in five years raised nearly $2 million benefitting Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Curtis is also a New York Times best-selling children’s book author with 14 titles, the most recent being Just One More Sleep (2024).

Salon 1-4

Featured Session: Multiplayer Futures: Co-Creating a Vision of SXSW 2030 (live!)

Featured Session: A Conversation with The All-American Rejects

Featured Session: Enough with the Bullsh*T: BuzzFeed Founder Shares His Plan to Make the Internet Fun Again

Featured Session: Why Work Feels So Unfair and How Hard Conversations Help

Featured Session: The Internet After Search

A conversation on how I am now a boss at 67!

American Sign Language
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FEATURED SESSION: JAMIE LEE CURTIS. IF NOT NOW, WHEN, IF NOT ME, WHO? PIVOTING AND MANIFESTING!


Global Connections Meet Up

Kevin Koym

CEO & Founder

Kevin Koym is a seasoned entrepreneur, CEO, and founder of Tech Ranch, a global venture accelerator that has supported over 6,500 entrepreneurs from more than 42 countries. Known for his pioneering work in the startup community, Koym's innovative community-based approach has helped numerous emerging technology companies not only accelerate but also disrupt their targeted markets. His dedication has made him a sought-after international speaker, coach, and consultant, recognized for his contributions across five continents.

Driven by a belief that supported entrepreneurs catalyze innovation, leading to solutions for society's pressing issues, Koym's work has significantly contributed to establishing vibrant entrepreneur networks worldwide. His career is marked by a series of entrepreneurial successes, including the development of groundbreaking technologies such as the first internet banking application in 1995 and the first large-scale e-commerce application engine, which became Dell Online, responsible for the first $2 Billion of sales at Dell.com.

Before launching his own ventures, Kevin Koym's experience spanned notable companies like NeXT, under the mentorship of technology luminary Steve Jobs, UT Health Science Center, Southwest Research Institute, Motorola, and IBM. An alumnus of the University of Texas with a degree in Electrical Engineering and an Eagle Scout, his career is a testament to his passion for innovation and his commitment to fostering the growth of startups around the globe.

Brenda Belmares

Founder

Bren Belmares is an author, international keynote speaker, and strategist in trust and strategic connections, recognized for transforming the way people and organizations build relationships that generate real impact and sustainable results.
She is a contributor to media outlets such as Forbes Centroamérica, POSTA, and other editorial platforms, where she writes about trust, leadership, gender equity, and interpersonal connections applied to life and business.
She is the author of the book Sumando Siempre, in which she shares practical tools for building powerful relationships based on trust, genuine contribution, and integrity—principles that define her professional approach today.
Since 2019, she has been the creator of Speedy Connections, a proprietary strategic connection methodology that combines talent, communication, and vulnerability to spark high-value relationships in record time. This methodology has been implemented by more than 50 companies globally, impacting thousands of people in cities such as New York, Bogotá, Medellín, and Quito, among others.
She has delivered over 350 conferences and workshops in corporate, academic, and entrepreneurial settings, covering topics such as strategic networking, communication, marketing, leadership, and gender equity.
In 2024, she was recognized by IncMTy as a Woman Leader for her impact on women’s professional development and her active contribution to gender equity.
In 2023, Tecnológico de Monterrey recognized her for achieving a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 100 in the Women Leaders Development Program for Banco Pichincha, directly impacting more than 180 women leaders.
She also serves as a board advisor, consultant, and mentor in Marketing and Strategic Communication for companies, leaders, and high-impact personal brands.
She shares her philosophy through the podcast Sumando Siempre, available on digital platforms.
Her core message defines her value proposition:
“Business thrives at the speed of trust.”

Brazos

More Analog, Less Noise Please: City Builders Meet Up

Understanding Crypto: Conversations for the Curious Meet Up

In a time of global rupture, this SXSW Campfire brings founders, builders, and ecosystem leaders together to create new connections. Led by Brenda Balmares (Monterrey, Mexico) and Kevin Koym (Austin, Texas), the meetup centers on bridge-building, cross-border collaboration, and relationships that help navigate what comes next—and turn change into opportunity.


Modern Makers Meet Up

Shayla Palmer

Creator / Founder

Shayla Palmer is the founder of Mes Amis Toys, a modern toy brand that blends crochet, carpentry, and storytelling. She is known for building life-sized crochet sculptures inspired by rideable animals and pop culture icons, transforming traditional craft into large-scale cultural moments. After teaching herself to crochet in 2024, she amassed hundreds of millions of views through episodic build series that document creativity in real time. Shayla’s work explores how handmade practices evolve in a digital world, positioning making as both an art form and a community movement.

Room 408

Convene, Collaborate, & Cultivate Connection: Moms Meet Up

Making is evolving from traditional craft to digital storytelling. In the era of social media, we’re finding more creators showcase their physical talents online. This Meet Up brings together modern makers working with diverse materials, platforms, and disciplines who are redefining what it means to create today. Whether you’re building by hand, sharing your process online, or blending the physical and digital, this is a space to connect, exchange ideas, and find others shaping the future of making.


Narrative Filmmaker Mentor Session: Edson Jean (Bantufy Films)

Edson Jean

Filmmaker

Edson Jean is a Haitian-American filmmaker. His debut feature Ludi premiered at SXSW 2021. He is a Gotham Narrative Lab alumnus and directed all eight episodes of Complex Networks’ First scripted Series Grown, which was Streamy and MIPCOM nominated. He participated in the writers room on Issa Rae’s HBO Max series Rap Sh!t. His short The Adventures of Edson Jean aired on HBO after ABFF/HBO. He has received artist fellowships from Film Independent, Oolite Arts, Third Horizon, Monson Arts, and the Peter Bullough Foundation. He is developing his 3rd feature: Sea Spirits, a Haitian Folklore horror film.

Executive Room

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Jenny Bloom (Bloomerang PR)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Lisa Trifone (Bright Iris Film Co.)

Publicity and Marketing Mentor Session: Maddy Bilder (26 Keys Productions)

Programming Mentor Session: Boram Park (Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival)

Programming Mentor Session: Haojie Huang (Kaohsiung Film Festival)

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Acting, Development, Funding/Artist Support, Narrative Filmmakers, Producers/Production, Screenwriting.

NARRATIVE FILMMAKER MENTOR SESSION: EDSON JEAN (BANTUFY FILMS)


Why You're Culturally Irrelevant (...And How to Change That)

Matt Klein

Head of Global Foresight & Research Methods

A Webby-winning writer, global speaker and “Top Voice in Market Research,” Klein is a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to make sense of cultural change. With a decade of experience in trend forecasting, innovation, and strategic communications, Klein partners with investors, the UN, philanthropies, the press, and brands to make sense of the zeitgeist and author future-proofing strategies. As the Head of Global Foresight at Reddit, Klein blends social and data sciences, making sense of change at scale. He’s a relied upon source for the WSJ, DAZED and VICE, former contributor to Forbes where he served as a media critic, and Partner with The Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies.

Waterloo Ballroom 3

Hsu Untied: Beyond Numbers: Decision-Making in the Math Classroom

The Learning Geeks: How to Think When Machines Think Faster

Chalk & Gavel: Navigating the Tides of an Education Law Sea Change

Beyond Voting: Defending Truth in Education: AI, Equity, & Power

Forget Moments Marketing: Welcome to Worldbuilding

Data is essential—but it can also be a hiding place. When we over-rely on dashboards, chase the same trends as competitors, and optimize for algorithms, we play it safe, yet lose relevance. There's a better approach for cultural resonance: stop chasing culture and begin shaping it. Through frameworks, case studies, how-to's and data, we'll explore how organizations can move beyond reactionary trend hijacking, and instead author preferred futures alongside communities. The most culturally resonant brands aren't chasing, they're making. What future will you build?

WHY YOU'RE CULTURALLY IRRELEVANT (...AND HOW TO CHANGE THAT)


Millennial CEOs: Redefining the Path to the C-Suite

Kaitlan Collins

Anchor and Chief White House Correspondent

Kaitlan Collins is the anchor of CNN’s The Source with Kaitlan Collins weeknights at 9pm ET and is the network’s Chief White House Correspondent. On The Source, Collins chases the facts and goes straight to the source, exposing uncovered angles and challenges to make sure viewers are seeing a story from every side and positioning her as one of the leading voices in cable news. She secures exclusive interviews with top political power players, international newsmakers & more. She was named to 2024’s TIME100 Next List and has been included in Mediaite’s annual list of the Most Influential People in News Media since 2018. In 2023, she was named on Variety’s New Power of New York list and in 2025 was included on TheWrap’s Changemaker’s list. Collins is a graduate of the University of Alabama.

Joey Gonzalez

Executive Chairman

As Executive Chairman of Barry’s, Joey Gonzalez has spent his career redefining the way people move and connect through fitness. A visionary entrepreneur expert at building and scaling brands that make people feel connected, Gonzalez leads with purpose shaped by his roots as the son of a Cuban refugee and a proud gay parent.
Over the past two decades, Gonzalez has been instrumental in scaling Barry’s from a beloved local studio into a global fitness phenomenon spanning 16 countries across the North America, Europe, Mexico, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
Under his leadership, Barry’s navigated unprecedented growth and survived massive challenges such as the global pandemic which shuttered studios worldwide. Through it all, Gonzalez spearheaded bold innovation - launching outdoor studios, expanding into digital with Barry’s X, and introducing the company’s first-ever loyalty program. His decisive leadership during this time distinguished Barry’s within the industry and was chronicled in a 2021 Harvard Business School case study.

Gonzalez’s achievements have earned widespread recognition. He was named to Fast Company’s “Most Creative People in Business” list (2018), received the CEO of the Year Award from North Castle Partners (2018), was honored as EY’s Greater Los Angeles Entrepreneur of the Year (2020), and received StartOut’s Leadership Award (2022). Most recently, he completed the OPM Program at Harvard Business School.

Damola Adamolekun

CEO

Damola Adamolekun is the youngest-ever CEO of the global restaurant chain Red Lobster and previous CEO of P.F. Chang's. Damola began his impressive career in investment banking in New York from 2011 to 2013, and describes the invaluable lessons he learned at the firm and how his time at Goldman Sachs laid the foundation for him as a young black leader, especially as he attempts to restore the iconic restaurant chain's position amid a changing landscape.

Joseph Vellone

CEO

Joseph is an experienced climate tech executive who has spent the past 15 years working across the energy and environment sectors. He is currently the CEO of ChargeScape, an automotive joint venture to integrate electric vehicles into the power grid. Prior to this, Joseph helped launch and scale ev.energy, an EV charging software platform, from pre-seed to Series B, and consulted for power utilities and energy companies in the Boston Consulting Group's energy and environment practice. Joseph began his career in climate tech as a researcher at Columbia University's School of Engineering, where his work on cathode performance optimization for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles was awarded top prizes at the Intel and Siemens engineering fairs and recognized with honors from the White House. He holds degrees from Princeton University and the London School of Economics.

Salon B

Innovating in Science & Tech When Budgets are Tight

How To Meaningfully Connect in a World That Has Gone to Sh*t

It's a Whole Thing: Gen Z Work Relationships in the Age of AI

Better Leadership Starts with Understanding the Stressed Brain

Join CNN's Kaitlan Collins and learn how big corporations are betting on millennial CEOs to reinvigorate legacy brands and drive new growth. Meet three young CEOs - all from underrepresented backgrounds - who have each taken different paths to the C-Suite in industries ranging from fitness to tech. A candid, high-energy conversation for aspiring future leaders.

MILLENNIAL CEOS: REDEFINING THE PATH TO THE C-SUITE


Beta Testing a City: Startups, Sidewalks & Robotics

Lucas Roberts

Director Architecture and Design

Lucas Roberts is an architect-turned-developer leading transformative work in South Downtown Atlanta. With a background in architectural design and a passion for urban revitalization, Lucas bridges the gap between architecture and development to create inclusive, community-driven spaces. He frequently moderates conversations on project ideation, equity in development, and the future of cities, bringing a grounded, visionary perspective to urban innovation. Lucas brings a unique perspective on how cities evolve—grounded in history, driven by equity, and shaped by collaboration.

Jay Bailey

H.J. Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs

President and CEO

James “Jay” Bailey is President & CEO of the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), the world’s largest hub dedicated to growing Black businesses. Under his leadership, RICE supports over 600 entrepreneurs, sustains 4,125 jobs, and has driven $557M in economic impact across Metro Atlanta. An Atlanta native and three-time TED speaker, Jay has been honored by three U.S. Presidents and recognized as one of Georgia’s most influential leaders. He’s a passionate advocate for equity, innovation, and community empowerment.

Erin Greer

Principal

Erin Greer is a Principal at Gensler and a strategist shaping the future of work through design, technology, and purpose-driven innovation. With over two decades of experience, she’s led transformative projects for global brands like Microsoft, NCR, and Inspire Brands. Erin’s work reimagines how spaces can unlock human potential, fuel creativity, and drive inclusive growth—whether for startups or cities. She believes design is a catalyst for change and a tool for amplifying impact.

Room 203-204

XR Immersive Filmmaking & The Future of Entertainment

From Data to Decisions: Lives, Livelihoods, and the Planet

Portraits Beyond the Frame: Jonathan Yeo & Spectacles

SIMULCAST: Amy Webb Launches 2026 Emerging Tech Trend Report

Artificial Imagination and The Fiction After Cinema

What if a city could be beta tested like an app? In South Downtown Atlanta, tech entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders are transforming 16 acres of historic real estate into a living lab for innovation, equity, and urban reinvention. This panel brings together the visionaries behind the movement to explore how startups, real estate, and even robot dogs are converging to reimagine what cities—and civic life—can look like in the 21st century.

BETA TESTING A CITY: STARTUPS, SIDEWALKS & ROBOTICS


Superconnector Meet Up

Amanda Caldwell

Partner

Elijah May

CEO & Co-Founder

I rather skip the small talk. Life's too short. I want to talk about what’s broken, what’s possible, and how we build a better future together. I believe connection solves everything. When ideas connect, new solutions emerge. When people connect, we see each other’s humanity. When talents connect, greatness happens. I’ve spent my career studying how systems work and how to make them work better. Done right, business is one of the most powerful connection engines in the world, and together, through honest collaboration, we can accomplish almost anything.

Superconnectors' - those who seem hyper-connected to large networks of people - are naturally drawn to SXSW. They thrive in a creative and innovative environment like SXSW which affords countless opportunities to meet interesting people. In its third year at SXSW, the Superconnectors Meet Up is intentionally designed to give business development professionals a place to network with other business leaders.