Entrepreneur. Strategist. Builder of People, Brands & Businesses.
REAL PEOPLE.
People who have actually lived the story.
REAL STORIES
Success, setbacks, pivotal decisions, grit, reinvention, and growth.
REAL STRATEGY.
Ideas and tools participants can apply to their businesses, careers, leadership, and lives.
REAL CONNECTION.
Bringing together business owners, professionals, leaders, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders.
2026 GUEST SPEAKERS
04
FEATURED INDUSTRY EXPERTS
Nevi Mariadi
Owner & Chef - Bali Asian Cuisine
Since I was a little girl, I have dreamed of being a chef and having a restaurant. With my family background, culinary school was out of the question. I learned to cook by helping my mom and grandma in the kitchen. They have taught me the basics of Asian cuisine. When I came to the United States in 1999, my passion for cooking became more diverse. I love food! I tried many other Asian dishes and fell in love with flavor, spice, and culture.
Glenn Plante
Owner & CEO - BP Builders
Glenn founded BP Builders in October 2020, bringing decades of hands-on and leadership experience in the construction industry. Starting as a carpenter apprentice in the mid-90s, he worked his way up through journeyman, superintendent, and project manager roles before achieving his goal of starting his own company. Known for his ability to balance multiple tasks while staying connected to the field, Glenn is passionate about helping people bring their construction dreams to life. Outside of work, he enjoys hockey, softball, hunting, fishing, and even picking blueberries.
Kyle & Heather Bergherr
Owners - The Greenhouse
In 2023, Heather and Kyle Bergherr proudly became the owners of The Green House in Carlton, continuing its longstanding legacy of quality, community, and meaningful customer experiences. Together, they are committed to preserving The Green House as a place where people can gather, grow, and celebrate every season.
Today, The Green House includes 15 greenhouses with more than 50,000 square feet of growing space across over an acre of land. Heather and Kyle are proud to carry this local business forward while continuing to serve and grow alongside the Carlton community.
Tara Bender
Co-Owner - Benders
Tara Bender serves as Co-Owner and Marketing Manager at Benders, where she combines her design expertise and creative eye to curate unique, memorable shopping experiences. A Bemidji State University graduate with a BA in Graphic & Exhibit Design, Tara has been part of the family business since her very first shoe market at just three weeks old. As tradition, her son, Orin, continued at four weeks. She’s dedicated to honoring Bender’s heritage while introducing fresh ideas to keep it thriving. For Tara, it’s all about meaningful connections, supporting the community, fostering customer relationships, and making every visit feel special.
Bo Allen
Owner - Bo Allen Productions
Bo is a true artist and a master behind the camera. From growing up in the beautiful mountains of Eastern Kentucky to over 20 years of experience in Nashville's music, TV, and film industries, his experiences give his photographic and cinematic shooting style a unique edge.
Bo's videography will capture every special moment and tell your story for years. Every film he produces touches the heart and creates everlasting memories.
