2026 Chicago Event Schedule
The Platform at 320 S. Canal
Monday, 8/31/2026
12:45 pm
Check-In/Networking Surprise
Visit the registration desk at The Platform at 320 S. Canal to receive your name badge and surprise. We are so happy you are here!
1:00 pm
Welcome - Leslie Mathis, Founder of EmpowHER
Leslie Mathis, founder of Streamline Multifamily Group, welcomes attendees to the 4th Annual EmpowHER Conference and shares the heart behind this year's event, its theme, and the community that continues to make EmpowHER so special.
1:15 pm
State of the Market - Meggan Taylor
This session will explore current trends, emerging challenges, and what leaders should be paying attention to in the months ahead.2:00 pm
2:05 pm
Speaker - SC Perot "Joy Rediscovered: Yours, Mine, Ours"
What starts with an unexpected journey to 17 Harry Styles concerts becomes a powerful lesson in reclaiming joy after life's hardest seasons. Inspired by her USA Today bestselling book Styles of Joy, SC Perot invites you to rethink what joy looks like, how to protect it, and why sharing it can create a ripple effect far beyond yourself. Come ready to laugh, reflect, and rediscover the joy that's been waiting for you all along.
3:25 pm
Workshop - Sharon Kazan Harris "Don't Give Up the Wine List"
What if the wine list wasn't about wine at all? Join Sharon Kazan Harris for a fresh perspective on confidence, client engagement, and the small moments that can open the door to stronger business relationships and bigger opportunities.
6:00 pm
Welcome Reception | Chicago Odyssey Glass Riverboat Sunset Cruise
Join us aboard the iconic Odyssey for an evening of conversation, connection, and breathtaking views of Chicago at sunset. It's the perfect opportunity to meet fellow attendees and celebrate the start of another unforgettable EmpowHER experience.
Tuesday, 9/1/2026
8:30 am
Breakfast & Mingling
9:00 am
Speaker - Leslie Mathis "What Happens When Things Don't Go According to Plan?"
Life and leadership rarely follow the script. Leslie Mathis shares lessons learned from navigating unexpected challenges and how resilience, adaptability, and purpose can turn life's detours into your greatest opportunities.
9:40 am
Workshop - Holly Duckworth "AI and the Future Ready Female"
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work and lead. Discover practical ways to embrace AI with confidence, increase productivity, and prepare for the future while staying authentically you.
11:15 am
Entryway
11:45 am
Lunch & Experiences
Take a break to recharge while exploring interactive experiences (including our favorite watercolor artist!), connecting with fellow attendees, and building relationships that extend well beyond the conference.
1: 00 pm
Panel - Powerful Women and Powerful Conversations
Featuring: Thru Shivakumar & Victoria Alvarez
Join an inspiring panel of women leaders as they share honest conversations about leadership, growth, challenges, and the moments that shaped their careers. Expect candid insights, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration.
2:00 pm
Panel Q&A
Moderated by Chris Espenshade
2:45 pm
Speaker - Natalie Sherman "Investing 101 for Women"
Financial confidence starts with understanding the basics. Natalie Sherman breaks down investing into practical, approachable concepts, helping women build wealth, make informed decisions, and take control of their financial future.
3:30 pm
Speaker - Heather Adams "Together, We Are Stronger"
Success isn't built alone. Heather Adams explores the power of community, collaboration, and lifting one another up, reminding us that when women support women, extraordinary things happen.
6:30 pm
VIP Dinner Experience with an Intimate Group
End the day with an intimate evening of exceptional dining, meaningful conversations, and exclusive networking. Designed for deeper connections and memorable moments, the VIP Dinner Experience offers the perfect setting to continue the conversations that began throughout the day.
*Timeline is subject to change. The VIP Event is exclusive and must be added on to your registration. For sponsors, you must be a Platinum sponsor or above.
Make sure to join the event on LinkedIn!
Register here!
