Unlocking Innovation: The Confluence Series with Brian Cohen - Symplicity Conversations
Join us on this episode of Symplicity Conversations as host Catherine Ripley sits down with Brian Cohen to explore innovation and community impact. Discover the inspiration and impact of the Confluence Thought Series, a groundbreaking initiative that brings innovation and community together in West Michigan.
Brian shares his journey from launching successful music festivals to creating dynamic platforms like the Confluence events, which highlight the area's rich innovation landscape. Learn about the upcoming Confluence Thought Series, sponsored by Symplicity, and how it fosters meaningful connections across various sectors, from tech and HR to philanthropy and entrepreneurship.
Tune in to hear about the unique collaborative environment in Grand Rapids and how Confluence is helping to shape the future of technology and community engagement. Whether you're a tech leader, entrepreneur, or community enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Don't miss it!
Chapters:
(00:00) Welcome to Symplicity Conversations
(01:29) Introducing Brian Cohen and Confluence Events
(03:46) The Birth of the Confluence Series
(07:11) Exploring the Thought Series
(09:41) Networking and Community Connections
(13:43) Evolving the Confluence Experience
(17:05) Confluence and Tech Week GR
(19:49) Emerging Trends for Tech Leaders
(21:06) Encouraging Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
(23:29) Passion for Innovation and Leadership
(25:38) Advice for Aspiring Event Producers
(26:51) Memorable Moments from Confluence
(28:36) Dream Speakers for Future Events
(31:56) Getting Involved with Confluence
(33:24) Final Thoughts and Messages for the Community
(00:00) Welcome to Symplicity Conversations
(01:29) Introducing Brian Cohen and Confluence Events
(03:46) The Birth of the Confluence Series
(07:11) Exploring the Thought Series
(09:41) Networking and Community Connections
(13:43) Evolving the Confluence Experience
(17:05) Confluence and Tech Week GR
(19:49) Emerging Trends for Tech Leaders
(21:06) Encouraging Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
(23:29) Passion for Innovation and Leadership
(25:38) Advice for Aspiring Event Producers
(26:51) Memorable Moments from Confluence
(28:36) Dream Speakers for Future Events
(31:56) Getting Involved with Confluence
(33:24) Final Thoughts and Messages for the Community
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Creators and Guests
Host
Catherine Ripley
Catherine Ripley founded Symplicity Communications in 2007 to help people avoid misleading sales practices during telecom purchases. By bringing respect, clarity and flexibility to the process, Symplicity Communications helps clients find peace of mind in a complex market. Her Midwestern values drive how she does business and selects the team that makes Symplicity special. Catherine possesses a great love for this industry and serves as a board member for Inforum Michigan’s TechnologyNEXT program for women in technology.
