BLAZE AI Summit
Igniting the Future of Small Business with AI
See You Again Next Year!
Meet BLAZE
Unveiled at the first annual BLAZE AI Summit in Colorado Springs, Blaze isn’t your typical AI representative. Blaze is approachable, cool, and here to make AI feel like a trusted guide. We created him to give a friendly face to a technology that can sometimes feel abstract or intimidating. Blaze embodies the spirit of curiosity, creativity, and bold exploration. He’s a reminder that AI isn’t just about code and algorithms, it’s about sparking human potential, igniting new ideas, and blazing trails into the future. Through Blaze, the Summit’s philosophy comes alive: AI isn’t here to replace us, it’s here to walk alongside us, fueling innovation, resilience, and transformation.
See You Again Next Year!
Presented By
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BLAZE AI Summit
The premier, cutting-edge AI event designed specifically for small business and forward-thinking leaders who are ready to thrive in the Intelligence Revolution.
"I've always thought of AI as the most profound technology humanity is working on... More profound than fire or electricity or anything that we've done in the past."
~ Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet
Set against the inspiring backdrop of Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, this first of its kind summit isn't just another tech conference; it's a blazing launchpad for innovation, training in practical AI tools for your business, and transformational knowledge that will reshape how you market, grow and innovate.
Join industry experts, tech pioneers, and entrepreneurs at the speed of change, where AI isn't tomorrow- it's today.
Goals for the Summit:
This Summit is designed to spark curiosity, fuel imagination, and ignite immediate action. We're here to make AI approachable, empowering, and instantly useful- especially for small businesses ready to grow, adapt, and lead in a rapidly evolving world.
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Energize every attendee to leave with 5 tools, strategies, or ideas they're excited to apply immediately in their business.
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Deliver an experience that is not overly technical, but powerfully practical- made for real people running real businesses.
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Teach attendees how to think with AI, not just use it- shifting AI from a mystery to a mindset.
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Ensure every person knows exactly where to start, what to try next, and where to go for more (tools, communities, learning resources)
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Create a community of business leaders who are AI-capable not just AI-aware. Ready to experiment, iterate, and evolve.
This Summit isn't about watching from the sidelines. It's about jumpstarting action, spreading ideas like sparks, and leaving with your mind on fire.
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Keynote & Breakout Speakers
Tal Goldhamer
Award-winning executive with over 30 years of experience in strategic transformation and people-centric innovation
Former Senior Partner and Chief Learning Officer at Ernst & Young, leading a team of 600+ delivering millions of learning hours to 100K+ professionals
Designs and leads AI workshops and AI Academies for business executives across the US, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East
Adjunct professor at the University of Denver, leading graduate-level students in Artificial Intelligence
Blends science-backed methods with a plain-language style to move beyond theory and create lasting change
Tal Goldhamer imagines a world where people are so inspired by what they learn that they feel compelled to pass it on to others. With a long-standing interest in emerging technologies and innovative instructional methods, Tal is laser-focused on making things better for others so that they can thrive.
Tal harnesses insights in technology, behavioral change, skill building, and human motivation to re-envision the status quo. He has since launched a boutique education and consulting firm. The work is simple yet powerful: to help leaders and teams turn headwinds into tailwinds. The ripple effect is tremendous: It impacts their teams, their customers, their communities, and the world. Tal’s approach creates every experience tailored to the unique challenges of each organization so teams can find their own tailwind. Tal’s thought leadership has been featured at numerous conferences, symposiums and in newsletters and publications such as Harvard Business Review.
Jonathan Liebert
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AI Thought Leader, author, and advocate for ethical AI integration and social innovation
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CEO/Executive Director of Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado and Southern Colorado Impact Group
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Founder of The AI Collective for Colorado, driving statewide collaboration and innovation in AI
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Chair of the National AI Taskforce for the National Association of State Workforce Board Chairs, shaping AI workforce policy
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Visionary behind the Colorado Springs AI Summit, empowering small and mid-sized businesses with AI tools and strategies
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Creator and instructor of AI Powerup for Small Businesses, helping leaders thrive in an AI-driven economy
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Forthcoming author of Dawn of Syntellect – The New Era of Hybrid Intelligence
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Adjunct professor at UCCS, developed the first Social Impact Strategies curriculum in the School of Business
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Appointed by Governor Polis as Chair of the Colorado Workforce Development Council Board
Jonathan brings a human-centered lens to technological transformation and supports and engages in efforts that build stronger, more resilient communities. A native of Colorado Springs, he has been honored as a Rising Star by the Colorado Springs Business Journal, a CiviCO Governors Fellow (2022), and a graduate of the Colorado Springs Leadership Institute (CSLI, Class of 2017). He serves on numerous boards including the International Association of BBB, the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust, and the Business Advisory Committee for the Colorado Secretary of State. Holding a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and Counselor Education from the University of Colorado Health and Sciences Center, Jonathan’s approach reflects a deep commitment to values-driven leadership and community impact.
Violet Rainwater, MBA
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Sales architect, AI enthusiast, and sales tech innovator with 25+ years of experience
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Expert in AI-powered sales enablement, blending psychology with automation and platforms to boost conversion
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Founder of the AI Sales Revolution, helping organizations master seven- and eight-figure growth
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Delivers transformative workshops and serves as a fractional Chief of Sales
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Known for live AI tool demonstrations and frameworks like The Wheel of Sales
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Equips teams with actionable strategies using tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gamma
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Trusted by brands including Coca-Cola, Allstate, Paychex, Pacific Life, and more
Today, Violet is on a mission to revolutionize the way organizations approach growth through the power of AI. As the founder of the AI Sales Revolution, she brings together cutting edge technology including artificial intelligence, automation, and dynamic video platforms with insights from human psychology to architect modern sales systems that actually convert. Her approach goes beyond buzzwords to deliver real and measurable impact, helping companies unlock new levels of efficiency, connection, and revenue potential.
Matt Aponte is a visionary entrepreneur, AI business strategist, and master subconscious reprogramming coach dedicated to helping small business owners unlock their true potential. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, video marketing, and business growth consulting, Matt has helped countless entrepreneurs streamline operations, increase revenue, and transform their mindset for long-term success. As the founder of Voxe Marketing and creator of IGNITR AI PRO, he has pioneered powerful, all-in-one AI solutions that save businesses time, cut costs, and fuel sustainable growth.
Beyond his work in marketing and AI, Matt is passionate about deep subconscious transformation and human potential. His innovative approaches blend advanced AI automation with mindset mastery, allowing business owners to step fully into their role as leaders while enjoying more freedom and balance. Whether through his published book The Art of Kicking Ass and Taking Names, his dynamic workshops, or his groundbreaking platforms like IGNITR AI PRO and Lead Ignition Pro, Matt’s mission is clear: to transform minds and elevate businesses so they can thrive in today's fast-evolving landscape.
Matt Aponte
Audrey Kerchner
Audrey Kerchner is the founder of Inkyma, an AI consulting firm that helps small and mid-sized businesses integrate AI solutions that actually work. With over two decades of experience in business strategy and marketing, Audrey specializes in turning buzzwords into business outcomes—guiding companies from AI confusion to real-world implementation.
She has led dozens of AI discovery sessions, custom workshops, and implementation roadmaps for organizations across sectors, including a 2-day program for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and ongoing training for private peer advisory groups. Her work focuses on building practical frameworks, designing automation strategies, and helping teams uncover high-impact use cases that fit their business today—not years from now.
Audrey is known for breaking down complex problems nto clear, actionable solutions with steps any business can follow. She believes AI isn’t the future—it’s the tool to build the future, and every business deserves a path to use it with confidence.
Steven Brown is a seasoned expert in data and analytics, known for helping organizations solve their most complex challenges through insight-driven transformation. With a career spanning over two decades, he has guided clients across industries in leveraging modern data platforms, AI, and cloud technologies to unlock business value. Steven’s work is rooted in a pragmatic, results-oriented approach that blends technical innovation with strategic vision. Currently focused on expanding Slalom’s presence in Southern Colorado, he brings a deep commitment to community and client success. When not working, Steven enjoys long bikes rides with his wife and kids throughout Black Forrest, Colorado where he currently resides.
Steven Brown
Joe Kennedy
Joe Kennedy is a seasoned technology and industry leader with over two decades of experience driving digital transformation, innovation, and operational excellence across the multiple industry sectors.
A recognized AI thought leader, Joe serves on Slalom’s AI Center of Excellence (COE) as an AI evangelist, user, and developer. He is a frequent speaker at industry events, where he shares practical strategies for deploying AI to solve real-world business challenges. Joe is passionate about democratizing AI and empowering organizations to leverage data-driven insights for sustainable growth, delivering outcomes and creating business value.
In addition to his industry achievements, Joe is known for building high-performing, cross-functional teams and fostering a culture of continuous learning. His recent engagements include launching digital business units, architecting scalable data solutions, and designing AI-enabled applications that drive operational efficiency and enhance customer experience.
Dr. Key is Professor of Digital Strategy & Marketing; Director of Campus Coursera Programs; and co-chair of an AI Policy work group at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. He also serves as Director of AI Initiatives for the Academy of Marketing Science. Originally trained as a cultural anthropologist, he conducted ethnographic fieldwork before transitioning to his first business venture in 2003. In 2012, he earned a Ph.D. in Business Administration with concentrations in Marketing and Strategic Management. His research centers on theory building and conceptual development for digital and strategic marketing issues at the executive level and the study of marketing’s role in the academy and the firm. He has published in many top academic journals and regularly consults and gives talks on generative AI in the workplace and digital strategy development.
Dr. Thomas Martin Key
Dr. Dennis Natali
Dr. Dennis Natali is a nationally recognized expert in AI strategy, higher education policy, and workforce transformation. As the AI Innovation Chair at Pikes Peak State College, he helps organizations across sectors integrate artificial intelligence with clarity and purpose. At Blaze AI Summit, Dr. Natali will deliver the keynote "Activate AI: Tools, Demos, and Your Next Move", where he’ll cut through the hype and help business owners identify the right tools for their unique needs—without overspending or overcomplicating. Known for his engaging and practical approach, Dr. Natali has spoken at universities and conferences nationwide and is frequently featured in local and national media.
Ean Mikale, JD, is a visionary technologist, founder, and Principal Engineer of Infinite 8 Industries, Inc., where he leads groundbreaking work in artificial intelligence, wave-based computing, and next-generation quantum architectures. With a background in law, autonomous systems commercial design, and futurism, Mikale blends multidisciplinary expertise to build ethical, human-centered, and energetically efficient technologies for global transformation.
He is the architect of TrinityOS and InfiNET, a unified computational platform integrating AI and quantum mechanics to create intelligent infrastructure for future societies. His work challenges the boundaries of what’s possible in machine consciousness, AI-human interface design, and multidimensional computation.
Mikale is also a thought leader in ethical AI governance, decentralized technologies, and consciousness engineering—advocating for systems that preserve freedom, privacy, and equity as humanity transitions into the post-digital age.
Ean Mikale
Michael Maynes
Michael Maynes is a visionary executive and entrepreneur with 15+ years of leadership experience across sales, product, and growth strategy roles in the technology sector. As a founder and former CRO, Michael scaled his own company from $0 to $48M in just five years—without external funding—proving that innovation and grit can fuel exponential success.
Now at the helm of an AI Agent Development firm, Michael partners with executive, sales, and marketing teams to help them adopt intelligent, outcome-driven AI solutions that accelerate performance. He is also the creator of an AI meeting notetaker platform and an appointed Council Member of the Colorado Workforce Development Council, contributing his expertise to the future of talent and technology in the state.
Michael's mission is to demystify AI for business leaders, transforming it from hype into hands-on, practical capability. His approach is grounded in real-world use cases and clear communication, helping
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Full Agenda
8:00am-8:30am
Networking and Coffee
Connect with fellow attendees, speakers, and partners before the exciting day begins.
8:30am-8:45am
Welcome Information
Hear a few words from Jonathn Liebert, Brandon Eldrige, and our presenting sponsor.
8:45am-11:45am
(Includes 15 minute break)
Morning Keynote Speaker: Tal Goldhamer
AI is everywhere, and yet most people still don’t know how to think about it—let alone use it well. This highly interactive session offers a new way in. Drawing from programs delivered to thousands of professionals around the world, AI expert and educator Tal Goldhamer helps participants cut through the hype, shift their mindset, and see AI with fresh eyes. Using plain language and real-world examples, he shows how AI is already transforming work—and how you can start using it in smart, highly practical ways right now.
11:45am-12:00pm
Busy is the Enemy of Strategy Keynote Speaker: Jonathan Liebert
Hear from Jonathan Liebert about his reasoning as to why being busy is hurting your business, and how you can utilize AI to propel your business forward.
12:00pm-12:30pm
Get Lunch
Grab a plate of great food from local caterers and prepare some questions you may have about AI.
12:30pm-1:115pm
Q&A Panel Discussion
This panel will be moderated by Brandon Eldridge and will feature AI experts and local leaders such as Tal Goldhamer, Steven Brown, and Jonathan Liebert. This is a chance for you to ask any burning questions you may have.
1:30pm-2:15pm
Breakout Block 1
Choose which session you are the most interested in learning more about! The 1st breakout block will give you the opportunity to hear from:
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Matt Aponte: Prompt like a Pro: Unlock AI's Full Power
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Michael Maynes: Automate It! Build Your First AI Agent
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Audrey Kerchner: Implement AI in 90 Days
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Steve Brown & Joe Kennedy: AI Strategy to Execution Gap: How to Turn AI Hype into Real ROI.
Each of these speakers will give you the tools, frameworks, and knowledge to reclaim your focus and build smarter
2:30pm-3:15pm
Breakout Block 2
Choose which session you are the most interested in learning more about! The 2nd breakout block will give you the opportunity to hear from:
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Violet Rainwater: AI Sales Revolution: How to Leverage AI in every stage of the Sales Process
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Dr. Thomas Martin Key: Train Your AI Brain: Ethics, Culture, & Change
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Ean Mikale: The Future of AI... Will It Take Your Job?
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Matt Aponte: Build a Fully Optimized Website with AI in 15 Minutes
Participants walk away with actionable strategies, tested methods, and new perspectives designed to boost clarity and improve the way they operate and expand.
3:30pm-4:10pm
Afternoon Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Dennis Natali
Prepare to Deploy - Hands-on tools, real-world demos, and final takeaways. Learn what to do next — and walk away ready to take action.
4:30pm-Onward
Optional Happy Hour
Sponsored by The Vizius Group & Solve4
Join us for an Optional Happy Hour at Red Leg Brewing Company which is located just minutes from the venue. Come continue the conversation with fellow attendees in a relaxed setting.
Podcast Episodes
Empowering Your Business with AI, the BBB and the SBDC, with Jonathan Liebert and Brandon Eldridge
The latest episode of T3 Talks features a conversation with Brandon Eldridge, head of the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center, and Jonathan Liebert, Executive Director of the BBB of Southern Colorado. Together, they share valuable resources for small businesses in Colorado and dive into the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
Listeners will hear discussions on why "busy" can be the enemy of strategy, how to effectively use AI tools to work on your business rather than just in it, and why the upcoming Blaze AI Summit at the Innovation Hub is a must-attend event. The episode also touches on lighter topics, such as whether AI can truly be considered "cute" and if it is cuter than a chimpanzee, as well as why despite what your chatbot might say you are probably not the chosen one.
This episode offers a mix of practical insights, future-focused conversation, and a bit of humor that small business owners and tech-curious listeners alike will appreciate.
Artificial Intelligence Will Touch Every Industry. Jonathan Liebert, CEO - BBB for S. Colorado
The latest episode of Business Digest Radio features Jonathan Liebert, CEO of the BBB of Southern Colorado, in conversation with host Dirk R. Hobbs about the growing impact of artificial intelligence on nearly every industry. Liebert explains why it is critical for business owners, operators, and staff to understand how AI will affect their work and how quickly the technology has evolved over the past year.
The conversation highlights how AI tools are now affordable and accessible for almost any business category and why companies should prepare for the shift from Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to Answer Engine Optimization (AEO). AEO delivers richer, more direct answers than traditional search engines and could soon reshape how businesses connect with customers online. Listeners will also learn how AI and AEO can reduce redundant tasks, improve workforce performance, and create new opportunities when used strategically.
Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Drink & Happy Hour Sponsors
Bronze Sponsor
Business Highlight
8:00am-8:30am
Networking and Coffee
A chance to connect with fellow attendees, speakers, and partners before the day begins.
8:30 am-11:00am
Keynote 1 (Full Group)
Inspire, Educate, Prepare for Action.
"Igniting the Future: How AI Changes Businesses and Thinking".
Plant the Seed of Possibility and Practical Transformation.
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Setting the Mindset: Why AI, Why Now?
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What is AI?
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What's Possible Now?
11:00am-11:30am
Grab Lunch
11:30am-1:00pm
Lunch and Panel Discussion
Full Group- Innovation Room
Pick up lunch and enjoy a powerful panel with AI experts and local leaders.
1:00pm-2:00pm
Breakout Block 1
The 1st afternoon set of breakout sessions aims to dive deeper into practical AI solutions. These sessions will be held across four rooms:
Innovation Room
Prompt Like a Pro: Unlock AI's Full Power
Firepit
Strategize with Your Second Brain
War Room
Win the Future: AEO, Talent and Trends
Conference Room
Your Business, Your GPT
2:00pm-3:00pm
Breakout Block 2
The 2nd afternoon set of breakout sessions goes even deeper into understanding AI, even gives you some opportunities for hands on experience.
These sessions will be held across four rooms:
Innovation Room
Automate It! Build Your First AI Agent
Firepit
Train Your AI Brain: Thinking Differently
War Room
Hot Seat + Prompt Lab (Interactive)
Conference Room
Build Your GPT Part 2
3:00pm-4:00pm
Keynote 2 & Summit Closing
Closing keynote on the future of AI and small business transformation.
4:30pm
Happy Hour
4:30pm-Onward
Optional Happy Hour
Red Leg Brewing Company
Unwind and continue the conversation with fellow attendees in a relaxed setting just minutes from the venue.