Winter Summit 2025

Meet your Winter Summit 2025 keynote speakers!

Dr. Manny Scott

Dr. Manny Scott is an inspiration to millions worldwide as an original Freedom Writer whose story is depicted, in part, in the hit movie, Freedom Writers. Despite a troubled upbringing and a seemingly hopeless future, Dr. Scott has overcome unimaginable obstacles and achieved incredible success. He has dedicated his life to helping others, traveling up to 300 days per year for over 20 years to inspire and empower educators, students, and leaders.

At just 16 years old, his life was hanging by a thread. Trapped in a cycle of poverty and violence, with a father in prison and a best friend brutally murdered, he felt that his future was bleak and hopeless. He dropped out of school, missed 60-90 days annually, lived in 26 different places, and felt like his life was spiraling out of control. He sat on a park bench, contemplating how to make others feel the depth of despair and anger he felt inside. He was headed down a path that would have destroyed him.

But then, he met several individuals who changed his life forever. They helped him to turn the page, and he returned to school, ending up in the back of Erin Gruwell’s English class, known worldwide as the Freedom Writers, portrayed in the hit movie. He became the first person in his family to graduate from high school, earn a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree, and, most recently, a Ph.D in Intercultural Competence. Through hard work, perseverance, and the help of others, he is now living the life of his dreams.

Dr. Manny Scott is truly a shining example of how, with hard work, perseverance, and the help of others, anyone can turn their life around and achieve their dreams.

Todd Nesloney

Todd Nesloney stands out as a transformative figure in the fields of education and leadership, celebrated for authoring seven pivotal books, including “Building Authenticity: A Blueprint for the Leader Inside You.” As an internationally acclaimed speaker, his journey through various leadership roles, notably as Director of the Get Your LEAD On conference and Principal of a school encompassing over 800 students and 125 staff members, showcases his profound influence on leadership. Currently, as the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association, he plays a critical role in shaping over 6,000 leaders statewide through his innovative content creation, professional development programs, and personalized mentoring.

Holding a Masters in Educational Leadership, Nesloney’s contributions have been acknowledged by prestigious entities such as The White House and John C. Maxwell, highlighting his innovative solutions, fervent passion, and resilient 'no excuses' mindset. His influence extends far beyond the podium; over the last decade, he has reached hundreds of thousands with his forward-thinking ideas, heartfelt stories, and authentic humor, leaving a lasting impression that transcends both personal and professional spheres.

Through his visionary approach, powerful writing, and steadfast dedication to elevating others, Todd Nesloney continues to play a pivotal role in redefining the landscape of learning and leadership.

Taes Leavitt

Taes (pronounced: TESS) has spent the last 15 years creating empowering television and stage content for kids as one half of the musical duo, Splash’N Boots. 

Her goal is to empower kids to move confidently through their big feelings. Her research has revealed that the number one thing that holds people back is not knowing how to navigate big feelings— such as bullying, failure, guilt, sadness, and heartbreak.

Her knowledge of children’s entertainment (she knows what kids find entertaining!) combined with developmental psychology and mindfulness practices has led to the creation of this program — which is approved by pediatricians and psychologists!

The Big Heart Method will help build students’ resilience, boost their confidence, reduce anxiety, and strengthen their relationships with teachers, parents, and other caring adults.