Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D.
Speaker and Peak Performance Consultant
LinkedIn

• What puts people in the Red Zone (and it may not be what you think)
• The number one action to take when someone is in the Red Zone
• Steps to get people out of the Red Zone
• The secret way to stay out of the Red Zone

View Dr. Lombardo's Video Invitation on YouTube!

Joel Zeff
Speaker, Humorist, Author
LinkedIn

DOWNLOAD KEY TAKEAWAYS PDF

• Embrace change and find success.
• Create opportunities to lead change.
• Be open and flexible to change; be prepared for change; be in the moment during change.
• Make the right choices to be an effective leader during change.
• Ask the most important question of a leader: How do I help the people around me be successful?

View Joel Zeff's Video Invitation on YouTube!

This experiential learning PEER Mentoring & Group Coaching session will have you reimagining innovation and inclusion back at your organization. You’ll be able to deliver more dynamic and effective team meetings, build stronger and more actionable networks through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), enhance onboarding, and strengthen high-performance development programs across all levels.

Leadership coach Christy Uffelman believes that the real experts are, in fact, you and your peers. So often, we attempt to solve our personal and professional challenges alone (or look for a silver bullet from an “expert” who talks at us), when what we really need is a vehicle to transfer and share our collective knowledge.

Your hands-on experience in this proven process will have you walking away with at least 20 genuine connections with your peers – and gaining accountability partners to support you as you take the steps that matter most to tackle your current personal and professional challenges. This entire transformative sharing session is co-created by YOU - in the moment. You and your peers will choose what you want to learn, based on your desired outcomes, and then intentionally share best practices and lessons learned with each other. The powerful result is connection, belonging, engagement – and solutions.

Christy will drive the conversation by encouraging all participants to reignite their confidence, identify their authentic leadership brand, make bold plans to take calculated risks in their career, and be intentional about integrating (vs. balancing) their personal and professional life. The outcome is curated conversations between the TRUE experts – you and your peers – the people who are leading people, teams, and projects across our companies and in our industry.

You can read more about this signature group coaching model in Christy’s #1 Amazon bestselling book, The PEER Revolution: Group Coaching that Ignites the Power of People.

CHART Member Rachel Richal shares Inspire Brands, Buffalo Wild Wings' exciting and wildly successful programs, such as their Blazin' Games initiative

Rachel Richal, CHT
Vice President, Training | Buffalo Wild Wings
LinkedIn

This session is for: Those who lead a team and want to learn how to more effectively manage change. Those who are seeking advanced content that goes beyond the basics.

Developed by the Tech Industry in the early ‘00s, the Agile mindset, or Agile ways of working, helps organizations improve their collaboration, innovation, and adaptation to change. Learning organizations are consistently faced with the development of change management tactics, and the Agile approach helps us navigate the constant evolution of our industry. Learn how to develop an Agile mindset, use the iterative test, and approach projects to effectively break down silos and encourage cross-functional collaboration.

Participants will:

• Learn the background and theory behind Agility.
• Engage in discussion with peers to determine how they might action Agile methodology in their organization.
• Walk away with a handout that reminds learners of key concepts and methods for actioning Agility in their organization.

This session is for: A diverse audience including instructional designers, educators, learning technologists, curriculum developers, e-learning professionals, and technology enthusiasts.

Dive into the dynamic intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and instructional design, and learn how AI is transforming instructional design and sparking new creative possibilities. Explore the revolutionary EON platform, and learn how to harness its power for content creation and interactive testing.
Discover how 360 images, Augmented Reality (AR), and generative AI technologies are reshaping the landscape of instructional design. Uncover practical strategies and real-world applications that bridge the gap between human creativity and machine intelligence.

You’ll delve into case studies and hands-on demonstrations, illuminating how AI-driven tools can enhance learning experiences and streamline development processes. Whether you're an educator, learning designer, or technology enthusiast, this session promises to inspire fresh perspectives and spark collaborative dialogue on the future of instructional design in the age of AI.

Participants will:

• Experience hands-on demonstrations: Get firsthand experience with the EON platform through live demonstrations showcasing 360 images, AR, and generative AI tools. Learn how these technologies can be integrated into instructional design processes.
• Explore use cases and case studies: Delve into real-world use cases and case studies highlighting successful implementations of AI technologies in instructional design. Analyze the impact of AI on learning outcomes and user engagement.

This session is for: Those who want to create more effective PowerPoint presentations. To get the most from this session, some familiarity with PowerPoint is ideal.

“How did they do that!?” If this thought has occurred to you while viewing a PowerPoint presentation, this session is for you! Come and learn how to think beyond traditional slides. You’ll peel back the curtain and apply some simple techniques (once you know the secrets) that will take your presentation to the next level. Bring your own laptop, because you will create a dynamic slide sequence that you can use for your next presentation!

Participants will:

• Explore creative ways to use animations, transitions, videos, and shape format.
• Apply presentation dos and don’ts to maximixe your impact.
• Learn training resources to hone PowerPoint skills.

This session is for: Those who are interested in implementing experiential learning in their organization.

“We do not learn from experience. We learn from reflecting on experience.” ~ John Dewey
Experiential learning puts team members in the center of what they need to know, so that they can more easily transfer their newly-gained knowledge and skills to the job. In this session, learners will enjoy an immersive experience through which we will learn the four-stage Experiential Learning Cycle.

Participants will:

• Learn the four stages of Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle.
• Engage in an immersive, hands-on learning experience through which they will address each stage of the model.
• Receive a learning simulation which they can take back to their organizations to use to train leaders on change management, culture development, and communication challenges.

This session is for: Passionate individuals seeking to transform their organization's customer service experience.

At Chick-fil-A, "my pleasure" isn't just a catchphrase—it's their moral obligation. Uncover the secrets behind Chick-fil-A’s award-winning customer satisfaction. Learn how mastering the fundamentals, developing the head and heart of leaders, and delivering 2nd mile service can surprise and delight your customers. This session is designed to be dynamic and highly interactive, with micro breakout sessions that will engage you as a participant. You'll walk away with actionable insights and strategies to elevate your customer service to new heights.

Key takeaways:

• Mastering the Fundamentals: Learn the essential elements that form the foundation of exceptional customer service.
• Delivering 2nd Mile Service: Discover how to go above and beyond to surprise and delight your customers.
• Recovering the Guest When Something Goes Wrong: Gain strategies to effectively handle and resolve customer complaints and issues, turning negative experiences into positive ones.
• Developing the Head and Heart of Leaders: Understand the importance of nurturing both the intellectual and emotional aspects of your leaders to create a service-oriented culture.

This Session is for: Those who want to improve the effectiveness of their long-term training/learning programs.

Step beyond routine box-checking and going through the motions. This session promises a transformative exploration of your Learning and Development initiatives to discover how intentional approaches can dramatically elevate competency and confidence, reshaping the way we learn, work, and grow together. Gain actionable insights from real-life strategies and first-hand data that will prompt you to rethink how you’re fueling your team’s performance and engagement. Leave empowered with practical methods for fostering a conscious approach to learning, ensuring presence and intentionality in every task for every team member.

This session is for:  Instructional designers and others who are responsible for rapid training design and are interested in incorporating both AI and research-based learning theory into learning design.

It’s an exciting time to be in the field of learning and development! With the rapid advancements in technology and the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI), we are on the brink of a new era in creating training content. These innovations promise to make our work easier and faster, but it's crucial that we not compromise the fundamental principles of learning and practical training delivery for the sake of convenience.

In this session, you will delve into core science-based learning theories that can significantly enhance the learner's ability to retain knowledge and build skills effectively. But you won't stop at theory! You will also learn practical, real-life examples of AI-powered tools that you can easily incorporate into your current development process, empowering you to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

You’ll conclude with an engaging activity to practice applying foundational learning principles while leveraging the latest technology. This interactive session will help empower you with the knowledge and skills to quickly build effective and efficient training while ensuring your training is fundamentally sound.

• Engage employees through recognition programs, feedback mechanisms, and team-building activities that resonate with today’s workforce.
• Improve manager retention through targeted and ongoing training programs that support career progression.
• Enhance employee engagement with creative and meaningful recognition initiatives.
• Foster a positive workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent.

• Why traditional Annual Performance Reviews are ineffective.
• Which factors are of highest importance when making the shift from “the way we've always done it” to “innovation and impact.”
• How to use periodic guided Check-Ins as a vehicle for meaningful connections between managers and their team members.
• Ways to gain buy-in from stakeholders.

James Frank
Area Leader of Training | Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
LinkedIn

This session is for: Those who are seeking to confidently initiate and navigate discussions. Those who desire a versatile toolkit of Conversation Starters, suitable for engaging with anyone across all levels of your organization.

This captivating session will transform your approach to communication. You’ll explore the profound impact of meaningful conversations and uncover the formulas behind the most influential dialogues. Learn how to confidently initiate and navigate discussions, from casual chats to important, complex topics, while avoiding the pitfalls of dull exchanges that end prematurely.

You’ll be empowered with the skills to conduct honest and impactful conversations that can enhance both your professional and personal life. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just beginning your career, you'll leave this session inspired and ready to turn every conversation into an opportunity for growth and connection.

Step in ready-to-learn and leave prepared to change lives, one conversation at a time. Discover the power of dialogue and how it can open doors you never knew existed!

Participants will:

• Leave with a toolkit of Conversation Starters to utilize in different scenarios.
• Gain confidence to speak to any level within their organization.
• Learn to avoid the pitfalls that plague our daily dialogue and cause others to tune out.
• Discover the broad application of these skills, and how they can improve your training sessions and messaging.
• Improve your networking through the engaging power of storytelling.

This session is for: New Learning and Development leaders.

This session will provide you with tools and strategies to unlock the full potential of your teams and drive impactful results within your organization. You will delve into onboarding practices and methods to build a cohesive team culture that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and creativity. Learn how to leverage technology for optimal team management and performance tracking. Engage in interactive discussions, role-playing scenarios, and Q&A to address specific challenges and develop actionable strategies. Elevate your leadership techniques and inspire greatness in your teams in this comprehensive and engaging session.

Participants will:

• Develop a vision and set SMART goals aligned with organizational objectives.
• Improve delegation skills and establish accountability systems.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
• Utilize tools and techniques for managing remote and hybrid teams.
• Create a personal action plan for ongoing leadership improvement.

Gretchen Bartkus
Chief Operating Officer | Haven Hot Chicken
LinkedIn

This session is for: Those who lead a team and want to learn how Career Pathing supports the growth goals of companies by putting people first.  

Come and learn not only what Career Pathing is, but see examples of tools to utilize it including Learning Management System (LMS) platforms, Development Plans, and succession planning. You will also discuss the impact Career Pathing has on not only teams but overall business health and share current practices. You will leave prepared with strategies to implement this effectively in your organization. 

Audrey Benet
Director of Training | Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar
LinkedIn

This session is for: Those who work with limited resources, on tiny teams or a department of one, and have to make magic happen when implementing new technology or processes. Those who are left out of the decision-making process, but still need to lead learning when implementing something new.

There are a plethora of tech options for hospitality companies, from Learning Management System (LMS) and scheduling solutions to Point of Sale (POS) and Kitchen Display Systems. As trainers, getting teams prepared for implementation is our responsibility. Learn best practices for an easier implementation and effective ways to get ahead of potential tech pitfalls.

Participants will work together to creatively solve some real-life scenarios. Come prepared with some tech implementation challenges you may be facing or have faced. This is a great session to work through some of your own implementation issues together with others and take home some concrete action items.

Participants will learn to:

• Assess  and address the essential skills needed to effectively use the new tech
• Create buy-in at various levels of the organization 
• Develop relationships to be a part of the decision making

This session is for: Those whose operation struggles with problematic behavior from individuals suffering from homelessness, mental illness, substance use, trauma, etc.

Having run a large homeless shelter outside of Chicago for 20 years, Ryan Dowd has a deep understanding of the brain science and mental health drivers of individuals suffering from homelessness, mental illness, substance use, and trauma. He will share proven tactics for effectively managing problematic behaviors like panhandling, rummaging through trash cans, loitering, and aggressive behavior towards staff – without conflict.  Ryan has presented on the topic around the world and has developed the training used by thousands of organizations, including the McDonald’s Corporation.

Participants will:

• Learn the 4 most common mistakes employees make in managing problematic behavior.
• Learn how to use effective body language and non-verbal communication to avoid conflict.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the mental health drivers of problematic behavior and how their staff’s actions exacerbate them.
• Develop an appreciation for how a sensitive topic can be taught respectfully without downplaying difficult realities.

This session is for: Trainers seeking more resources for training initiatives and/or progressing in their careers.

A report by McKinsey & Co. shows that companies that effectively involve CEOs in L&D programs report 45% higher business impact. Learn how to achieve this. Our panelists will share their wins and shortcomings as they build leadership support for training programs. Gain actionable insights on leveraging data to assess opportunities, measuring results, and advocating better internally and beyond.

Participants will learn:

• How to craft compelling, data-driven business cases that resonate with executives.
• Strategies for identifying and nurturing internal champions to advocate for L&D initiatives.
• Techniques for aligning training programs with key business objectives and stakeholder interests.

Moderated by Rachael Nemeth and Damian Hanft
Panelists:

• Kelly Saunders (Smashburger)
• Angela Gintz (Salt & Straw)
• Michael Nalley (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma)
• Matt Kubarek (InTown Suites)

This session is for: Those who have doubts about the effectiveness of their current virtual training compared to previous live training models, find themselves repeatedly training individuals virtually on the same subject with no noticeable improvement, or seek to leverage more virtual training for its convenience over in-person training.

This dynamic, collaborative session explores the transition from traditional in-person training to effective virtual learning.  You will discuss the disadvantages to virtual training and where we went wrong, whether your current training methods are working, and how to augment virtual training with in-person reinforcement of training materials.

Engage in a discussion about your current training practices, share success stories and struggles, delve into measurable data on virtual training, and explore strategies to optimize training effectiveness by balancing virtual and live training approaches.

Participants will:

• Acquire strategies for enhancing virtual training effectiveness and engagement.
• Engage in discussions to discern types of training suitable for virtual sessions versus live.
• Devise a strategy for improving their current virtual training setup.

This session is for: Those who aspire to elevate their instructional writing and be able to take straightforward or intricate tasks and create documentation so clear that it anticipates and answers questions before they’re even asked.

Crafting written instructions that stand on their own isn’t as easy as 1, 2, 3. It’s a distinct process that demands more than just a linear explanation—it requires a thoughtful translation of action into words. You will engage in multiple hands-on activities to practice writing clear instructions, experience instruction from the learner’s point of view, and discover the essential components of effective instructional writing.

Participants will:

• Gain practical experience in drafting clear and effective procedures.
• Discover essential strategies and insights for impactful written instruction.
• Adopt the perspective of a learner to understand the effectiveness of written instruction.
• Utilize newfound knowledge to enhance existing work.

This session is for: Individuals who are tasked with participating in or overseeing their company GM or franchise events.

While working as a director of training and operations for Chuck E. Cheese, Todd Horchner was charged with organizing GM conferences and events for his team. It was during this time that he learned of a gap in the partnership between successful events and successful A/V production. Join this session to understand the pitfalls to avoid from a (former) corporate head to (now) business owner of Legacy Event Productions. Come and learn about how the A/V for your event can leave lasting impressions on your team and support achieving the results you need.

• test their skills in everyday leadership principles
• engage in open discussions with other participants in a relaxed setting
• discover ways to strengthen your team’s leadership abilities

If you are ready to upgrade your career, there is no better sign of a pro than the CHT achievement. Sign up for this review and exam for the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certified Hospitality Trainer Certification. In order to attend this session, apply directly to AHLEI. Apply by July 5 to ensure that your application is approved on time.

All study materials are provided online in advance. Study on your own in advance, attend the review session Sunday morning, August 11, and then sit for the exam Sunday afternoon.

The review session will help you learn how to: assess training needs, apply training tools and techniques, design instruction, measure and evaluate training, develop supervisory and management personnel, and outsource. Then, take the exam with the new knowledge and confidence to succeed!

Go to https://info.ahlei.org/chart-cht/ to register. If you have already completed the application process and are currently enrolled in the CHT program, contact the Certification department at 407-999-8195 or email [email protected]. When registering, enter coupon code CHARTCHT24 to receive 15% off the $510.20 AHLEI price only for CHT participants taking the exam at the CHART Conference.

Learn how to accomplish this task consistently and successfully in the sometimes chaotic work environments of hospitality organizations. You’ll discover principles of adult learning in field-based education, how to overcome obstacles to learning, effective training for new hires, and using OJT for new product rollouts and new store openings.

Competency workshops are $79 for CHART Members and $99 for non-members. You can sign up to attend this pre-conference workshop when you register for the conference. If you have already registered and would like to add on one of these workshops, please email Susan.

Get a clearer picture of how your team relates to others and fits into the company’s overall organizational structure and strategy so that you can achieve operational excellence. Learn to distinguish between training solutions and operational roadblocks.

Competency workshops are $79 for CHART Members and $99 for non-members. You can sign up to attend this pre-conference workshop when you register for the conference. If you have already registered and would like to add on one of these workshops, please email Susan.

CHART MasterClasses are in-depth workshops focused on applying the concepts learned in each competency track to the real life projects/challenges/initiatives brought to the session by participants.

The CHART Executive MasterClass is intended for people who have completed all workshops in the
Executive competency track. Those that have not completed the competency track may inquire with
CHART for a possible exception.

The Executive MasterClass will focus on building the business case for each participant’s initiative.
Participants will walk away with:

• Practical application of concepts taught in the Executive track workshops
• Best practices for bringing their initiative to life
• Executive mentor support/guidance

Additional information:

• Executive MasterClass size will be capped at 6-8 participants to ensure adequate time for each participant’s project. Open to all, but with priority for those who have completed the Executive competency track.
• Peer sharing is a part of the MasterClass experience. All participants are expected to contribute to the discussions of other participants’ projects/challenges/initiatives.

Competency workshops are $79 for CHART Members and $99 for non-members. You can sign up to attend this post-conference workshop when you register for the conference. If you have already registered and would like to add this workshop on, please email Susan.

This session is for: Instructional designers, e-learning developers, and anyone interested in creating online training content. Beginning and Intermediate users of Articulate Storyline.

Bring your own laptop and join us for a dynamic and interactive four-hour training session designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively use Articulate Storyline. This hands-on workshop will guide you through the fundamental features and some advanced functionalities of this powerful e-learning authoring tool, ensuring you can create engaging and interactive online courses with confidence.

By the end of this training session, participants will be able to:

• Confidently navigate the Articulate Storyline interface
• Create visually appealing and interactive e-learning slides
• Develop engaging quizzes and interactive scenarios
• Use advanced features to enhance learner engagement
• Publish and share their e-learning courses effectively

*If you do not have a subscription to Articulate Storyline or Articulate 360, be sure to download the 30-day free trial before the session.