Chasing Simple Marketing for Entrepreneurs

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How to Get the Most Out of a Conference as an Educator

June 24, 2025

When I first walked into Conquer Live in January 2024, I felt that electric mix of nervousness and excitement. I didn’t just hear amazing talks, I found a community of wildly supportive educators and attendees who blurred the line between stage and audience. Many of whom have become close friends. That weekend changed the way I think about conferences…and how I plan for them. Today I spill the tea on how to get the most out of a conference

Whether you’ve dreamed of speaking at a conference or simply want to get more out of attending one, today I’m pulling back the curtain on how to actually leverage these events. Because let’s be honest: Conferences are an investment — of time, energy, and money. Let’s make sure you walk away with something that transforms your business.

Links and Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Why Conferences Can Be Game-Changers

If you’ve ever left a conference with a notebook full of ideas but no clue what to do next, you’re not alone. What makes events like Conquer Live different is the intentionality behind every moment.

  • Small but mighty: With a 2:1 attendee-to-educator ratio, you get real face time with experts.
  • Less fluff, more follow-through: There’s dedicated time to implement what you learn before you leave.
  • Perfect timing: Held during off-season (hello, January), it’s the ideal moment to work on your business.

You don’t need another folder full of notes. You need clarity, action, and connection. And conferences like Conquer deliver exactly that.

For Attendees: How To Make The Most Of Your Investment 1. Set One Walkaway Goal

What is the one thing you want to leave this event knowing, doing, or understanding better? Before you pack a single outfit, take an hour to look at your business and pinpoint one major pain point. That’s your north star.

It could be streamlining your client experience. Or finally starting your email list. Whatever it is, write it down. This gives you focus and direction as you move through the weekend.

2. Leverage Downtime

Some of the most transformational moments don’t happen during scheduled talks—they happen late at night on the couch or over an unplanned breakfast chat. Fight the urge to retreat to your hotel room and instead lean into connection. Block off the day after the event to recover so you can be fully present while you’re there.

3. Bring Your Metrics

You don’t have to be a numbers expert, but bring the stats that matter: sales, email list size, engagement. These give educators something concrete to help you with. Bonus tip? Write down how you want to feel in your business 12 months from now. It’s a powerful way to guide your questions and decisions.

For Speakers: Yes, You Can Get More Too

Speaking at a conference isn’t just about the talk you give. Here’s how to deepen the impact:

  • Be present: Don’t just hang with fellow educators. Sit with attendees, answer questions, and offer insight. Your future students are probably in that room.
  • Set your own walkaway goal: What relationship, clarity, or idea do you want to walk away with? Conferences aren’t just for attendees to learn — you should grow too.
  • Listen well: What are people asking? What are they struggling with? These conversations might spark your next big idea. (And should be impacting your messaging!)
Behind The Scenes: What Conference Hosts Look For In Speakers

Wondering how to land a speaking slot at an event like Conquer Live? Jamie and Heather shared exactly what they look for:

  • Attendee-first pitches: They ask their community what topics they want first, then select speakers based on that.
  • Excitement > polish: They don’t care if your video is perfectly produced. They want to see your personality and passion shine through.
  • Be human: They’re not looking for the most professional headshot or longest resume. They want speakers who are relatable, approachable, and genuinely invested in the community.

Want to stand out? Ask them a question in your application. Show you care about their audience. And don’t skip any parts of the process — yes, that means the video, too.

What’s Coming for Conquer 2026

I can hardly wait for this one, y’all. Here’s a sneak peek:

  • Dates: January 23–25, 2026, with an optional dinner kick-off on January 22
  • Location: Sunny Orlando, Florida (Disney, anyone?)
  • New VIP Add-on: Includes a bonus mastermind-style session with speakers and access to private podcast recordings of every talk.
  • Unforgettable moments: Think themed nights, surprise giveaways, and a whole lot of cartwheels, karaoke, cold plunges, and community.
Your Move: Take Action Now

If you’re going to make the investment, make it count:

The truth? The magic isn’t just in the speaker lineup or the breakout sessions. It’s in the way you show up—with intention, with an open heart, and with a clear plan for how this one weekend can spark real growth.

Guest Bio:

Hi – Jamie & Heather here! Two photographers turned educators who are passionate about truly moving the needle in photographer’s businesses. By breaking down the barriers between educators and small business owners, we’ve taken what started as a free weekly coaching call cultivated a community and built a one-of-a-kind in-person education event. Through both the community and Conquer Live, we’re here to support the building of sustainable businesses, together. You bring the heart and the drive – we bring the education, support and community.

The post How to Get the Most Out of a Conference as an Educator appeared first on Amanda Warfield.

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Chasing Simple Marketing for Entrepreneurs
By Amanda Warfield
Uncomplicating Marketing and Business
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