Keynote Concerts with Ben Bailie Emokid

Everybody struggles with something. But some of those struggles are life-long, and for some, those struggles aren’t always obvious. For me, that invisible struggle has come in the form of Learning Disabilities. Traditional structures like work and school have always been hard, and in my younger years, I often longed to be able to have someone else’s brain. But over the last 3 decades, I eventually came to terms with my condition, learned to value it, respect it, embrace it, and step into it. It turned out…that so much of what I felt so insecure about was also the thing that made up the best parts of myself. It turned out that my greatest struggle was also my greatest asset. During this talk, discover 3 keys on what 30+ years of living with an invisible disability has taught me, and how one’s greatest struggle can also be one’s greatest asset. 

Ever since the year 2020, the admission, "Back to Normal", has become an increasingly popular catchphrase. "I can't wait for things to get back to normal." But even if we could go back in time - back to “normal” - would that really be the best direction to go? Whether it's a pandemic, or school and government shutdowns, or illness, or college prep, or simply figuring out what's coming next, life will always be full of surprises. But, how do we bounce back - or more importantly, bounce forward - when life turns upside down, and redirection is required? In this talk, attendees will explore ways in which phrases like "Back to normal" can often block success and progress, and gain 3 key insights on how to more effectively face times of uncertainty. 

Outcomes: 

Increased confidence & self-awareness, increased productivity, improved mental & emotional health, improved community

Once quoted as “music’s most misunderstood genre”, Emo (and Emo culture) was a quintessential part of life for many in the Millennial and early Gen-Z generations - whether they realized it or not. Though its peak years were fairly short-lived, this micro-genre grew from a quirky subculture in the late 90s to the primary limelight of mid-2000s. For many, the music, and the scene that came with it, offered a deep sense of community and belonging; of hope, to a generation that sorely needed it - forever changing the trajectory of music and culture for future generations. Despite its often less-than-charming stereotypes, Emo music's impact, roots and diversity run deep and wide. Similarly, so do our emotions. Our emotions also give us immense power when we can learn to tap in and tune into them. Everyone needs community. As we get older, the sense of community and belonging once felt can often dwindle as a generation moves more into modern adulthood. Meanwhile, the challenges of life, and the deep emotions that we experience from them, don't stop. 

In this talk, Ben shares key insights and his unique take on how "Emo Music" might just be the missing link between emotional success and emotional breakdown.

Perfect for "emokids" young and old, hipsters, demographers, sociologists, fans of 2000s culture, and anyone who is unsure about what the terms "Emo" or "Emokid" even mean.

Sub-Topics: Community, Belonging, Impact, Legacy, Emotional Health.

Learning Outcomes: Improved community, improved emotional confidence, increased motivation and morale, increased diversity