DISCOVERY 2025
DISCOVERY 2025
DISCOVERY 2025
DISCOVERY 2025
DISCOVERY 2025

discovery 2025

PRODUCED BY SUMMER DISCOVERY

July 16th
University of California, Los Angeles

About Discovery

Discovery Conference connects ambitious students with industry-leading professionals in an immersive, transformative experience. Taking place at UCLA in July 2025 and New York City in November 2025, this dynamic gathering features engaging keynotes, interactive breakout sessions, and networking opportunities with titans of industry across business, entertainment, sports, and media.

More than just sessions, Discovery Conference creates front-row, hands-on learning experiences where enrolled Summer Discovery UCLA students can dive deeper into their passions with unprecedented access to success stories from renowned leaders. Produced by Summer Discovery, this once-in-a-lifetime experience builds lifelong connections and helps shape the next generation of innovators through meaningful interactions and real-world skill development.

Summer Discovery 24 UCLA 8-minsummer discoverysummer discoverysummer discovery

speakers

Josh Richards

Josh Richards

Social Media Creator
Social Media Creator
Josh Richards
16
Jul 16, 2025
Josh is a top Gen-Z social media creator, entrepreneur, actor, and host with a global following of over 42 million. At just 23, Josh has built a digital empire and collaborated with major brands such as Celsius, Amazon, and T-Mobile. He also co-hosts the podcast “BFFs” alongside our client, Brianna LaPaglia, a top show on the Barstool Network. His influence and impact have been recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30, Variety’s Power of Young Hollywood, The Hollywood Reporter’s Creators Issue, and Rolling Stone’s 25 Under 25. Growing up playing goalie in competitive hockey, Josh is a dedicated sports fan and wants to create more content and be active in the space. Recently, he participated in the Los Angeles Kings Celebrity Charity game alongside fellow UTA clients Will Ferrell and Cobie Smulders. Josh and CrossCheck have also served as consultants for the NFL to reach the broader Gen-Z community. Beyond the digital space, Josh is making strides in traditional entertainment. He appeared in A24’s “Dream Scenario” alongside Nicolas Cage and spearheaded CrossCheck’s self-funded sketch comedy series, “Read the Room,” which has amassed over 60 million views across social platforms. He is currently in pre-production for the second season, set to begin filming in Q2.
Batsheva Haart

Batsheva Haart

TV Personality
TV Personality
Batsheva Haart
16
Jul 16, 2025
Fashion, lifestyle, and beauty creator, Batsheva Haart, began her career in 2018 uploading videos of her life on YouTube. She is widely known for her appearance on Netflix’s My Unorthodox Life, where she shares her journey of transitioning from an ultra-religious upbringing to a more modern, independent life. Currently residing in Miami, FL, Batsheva has amassed an audience of nearly 2M followers and continues to inspire others with her journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Adam Rosenfeld

Adam Rosenfeld

Adam Rosenfeld

Founder of Resident Group
Adam Rosenfeld
16
Jul 16, 2025
Adam is a founding partner of Resident Group and a veteran of the luxury real estate industry, with over $2 billion in career sales. With 21 years of experience, he’s brokered some of the most high-profile estates and developments across Beverly Hills, Bel Air, and the Hollywood Hills. Before launching Resident Group, Adam earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and a JD from Florida International University. He’s been recognized as a Real Estate All Star by Los Angeles Magazine, a Leader of Influence by the LA Business Journal, and a Showbiz Elite honoree by Variety. He also stars in Netflix’s Buying Beverly Hills and regularly appears on Fox as a real estate expert.
Blake Wynn

Blake Wynn

Blake Wynn

Blake Wynn
16
Jul 16, 2025
Blake Wynn is a dynamic entrepreneur who started his business journey at age 12 by reselling sneakers and made over $300,000 in his first four years. Now in his mid-twenties, he serves as CEO of B Wynn Sports, connecting professional athletes with brand partnerships, and founded the Celebrity Poker Tour, which completed its first season in 2024. Through his YouTube channel "Just Wynn Sneakers," Blake has built a community of over 380,000 subscribers, and was named one of the influential entrepreneurs of 2019 by the Imperium Group. His story demonstrates how passion and persistence can transform childhood interests into successful business ventures, making him an inspiring speaker for students exploring their entrepreneurial potential.
Brandon Smithwrick

Brandon Smithwrick

Brandon Smithwrick

Content Creator
Brandon Smithwrick
16
Jul 16, 2025
Brandon Smithwrick is the Director of Content & Creative at Kickstarter and the founder behind Content to Commas, a newsletter helping creatorpreneurs grow and monetize their content. Named to the 2024 Forbes 30 Under 30 list, Brandon has led award-winning campaigns at Squarespace and built standout content strategies across tech, fashion, and music. As a B2B creator, he’s partnered with brands like Amazon Business, Canva, HubSpot, and AG1, and recently advised Wix Studio. He’s often invited to speak on content strategy, creator marketing, and personal branding.
Casey Adams

Casey Adams

Casey Adams

Entrepreneur
Casey Adams
16
Jul 16, 2025
Casey Adams is an entrepreneur, investor, and podcast host who launched his career at 17 with The Casey Adams Show, now ranked among the top 100 business podcasts worldwide. He has conducted over 400 interviews with founders and industry leaders. As the co-founder of MediaKits, a groundbreaking SaaS platform for creator analytics, Casey played a pivotal role in its rapid growth, leading to its acquisition by Viral Nation in 2022. Currently, he is the co-founder of Listener.com, an AI-powered listener analytics platform built for modern podcasts and networks. Casey continues to drive innovation in tech and media, founding new ventures and leveraging his expertise through strategic investments and advisory roles that shape the future of digital media.
Dr. Sanjay Sharma

Dr. Sanjay Sharma

Dr. Sanjay Sharma

Dr. Sanjay Sharma
16
Jul 16, 2025
Dr. Sanjay Sharma is an internationally recognized eye surgeon and professor of ophthalmology at Queen's University. The author of over 300 research papers and three books, he actively researches conditions such as macular degeneration and diabetes-related eye diseases. Dr. Sharma is the founder of a series of enterprises, including Macula Clinics - a fast-growing chain of clinics that deliver specialty eye services to small communities, Optocase - an online medical education platform reaching 30,000 eye doctors, and PreMEDSKL - a boot camp for high school students interested in a career in medicine. Dr. Sharma completed his medical education at Harvard University.
Evan Sharma

Evan Sharma

Evan Sharma

Multidisciplinary Artist
Evan Sharma
16
Jul 16, 2025
Evan Sharma is a multidisciplinary artist working at the intersection of art and science. His career began at the age of 12, when his work was accepted into Canada’s largest juried art show. Since then, his work has been acquired by international art collectors. This early success sparked his interest in entrepreneurship, a skill he has since used to raise over $150,000 for various charities, sell nearly 100 original paintings, and begin angel investing in companies such as Olipop, Breakaway, Hoobe, and Happy Dad. In the past year, Evan’s work has been acquired by the New York Stock Exchange, he has illustrated a children’s book on entrepreneurship in collaboration with Harley Finkelstein, president of Shopify, and he held his first institutional solo exhibition at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. He is also an incoming medical student at the University of Ottawa.
Gibson Ardoline

Gibson Ardoline

Gibson Ardoline

Internet Personality
Gibson Ardoline
16
Jul 16, 2025
Gibson Ardoline is a content creator and social media strategist studying at the University of Florida. Over the past two years, he’s built a strong online presence by focusing on authenticity, consistency, and digital storytelling. His experience balancing college life with content creation gives him unique insight into Gen Z engagement and community building, making him a rising voice in the future of social media.
Haven Lough

Haven Lough

Haven Lough

Internet Personality
Haven Lough
16
Jul 16, 2025
Haven Lough is a content creator and entrepreneur with over 4 million followers across TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, and Instagram. A pre-med student at the University of Florida and founder of the skincare brand HAVEN, he blends his passion for dermatology with storytelling through comedy, lifestyle, and advice. His authentic voice and brand work with Hollister, Old Spice, and Bloom highlight his impact on digital media and skincare.
Jack Nauseef

Jack Nauseef

Jack Nauseef

Jack Nauseef
Jack Nauseef
16
Jul 16, 2025
Jack Nauseef is a Clemson University graduate who knows what it's like to juggle it all. During college, Jack balanced the intense demands of Division I athletics with rigorous academics, proving that you can excel in multiple areas when you're strategic about your time and energy. Now working as an Analyst at a Global Asset Management Firm, Jack has transformed his post-college journey into something truly inspiring. His transition from the court to curating incredible lifestyle content has captivated audiences everywhere. Whether he's sharing advice, highlighting his faith, or just radiating his contagious energy, Jack has mastered the art of authentic connection and inspiration. He'll share practical strategies for managing competing priorities, finding your authentic voice, and setting yourself up for success in whatever path you choose.
James Dumoulin

James Dumoulin

James Dumoulin

The School of Hard Knocks
James Dumoulin
16
Jul 16, 2025
James Dumoulin is the creator of The School of Hard Knocks, one of the largest business media platforms in the world. With over 15 million followers and 4 billion+ views across social media, James has interviewed more than 20 billionaires, capturing the real, unfiltered stories behind their success. His mission is to democratize access to elite business wisdom — one powerful conversation at a time.
Jessica Williams

Jessica Williams

Jessica Williams

Head of Brand Marketing & Partnerships at Shopify
Jessica Williams
16
Jul 16, 2025
At Shopify, Jessica leads all brand marketing and partnership functions, overseeing creator partnerships, sponsorships, brand campaigns, integrated marketing, social, marketing operations, and experiential marketing. She spearheaded high-profile collaborations with MrBeast, Kai Cenat, Nicki Minaj, Drake, A$AP Rocky, Emma Chamberlain, and the D’Amelio family, positioning Shopify at the intersection of commerce, culture, and content. Jessica also manages a long-tail creator program of 500+ creators across YouTube, Meta, TikTok, podcasts, and newsletters, ensuring Shopify’s brand presence is deeply embedded in the creator economy at every level. Passionate about mentorship and transformative leadership, Jessica likes to take bold, calculated risks that drive business growth, spark creativity, and enhance both the Shopify brand team and creator experience.
Kieran O'Brien

Kieran O'Brien

Kieran O'Brien

Tech Entrepreneur
Kieran O'Brien
16
Jul 16, 2025
Kieran O’Brien is a 25 year old entrepreneur and founder of Shopgenie, an AI-powered CRM for auto repair shops that was acquired for $50M in October 2024. He specializes in scaling vertical SaaS companies and turning niche markets into big opportunities.
Lauren Berger

Lauren Berger

Lauren Berger

CEO of Intern Queen
Lauren Berger
16
Jul 16, 2025
Lauren is the CEO and Founder of Intern Queen and IQ Marketing Agency, two ventures that connect top brands like Uber, Dunkin’, and Revolve with Gen-Z talent. Since launching in 2009 without outside funding, she’s built a multi-million dollar business known for bold, authentic college campaigns. A leading voice for young professionals, Lauren is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and go-to Gen-Z expert. Her latest book, Get It Together, offers practical strategies for designing success, building on her earlier career staples All Work, No Pay and Welcome to the Real World.
Stephanie Cowan

Stephanie Cowan

Stephanie Cowan

Founder of Gold Toast
Stephanie Cowan
16
Jul 16, 2025
Stephanie is a photographer, storyteller, and founder of Gold Toast, a creative agency that helps people and brands tell their stories through design, strategy, and photography. She also launched The Drop In, a pop-up series focused on creativity and connection, and serves as the Friendship Director at Illuminate, the nonprofit behind some of San Francisco’s most iconic public art. Starting her journey in musical theatre, Stephanie has since photographed tech leaders, grown mission-driven businesses, and built community-driven experiences—all rooted in curiosity, creativity, and purpose.
Tyler Denk

Tyler Denk

Tyler Denk

CEO of Beehiiv
Tyler Denk
16
Jul 16, 2025
Tyler joined Morning Brew as the second employee, leading product and engineering, and helped them scale up until the acquisition by Business Insider in 2020. He then had a stint at Google as a Product Lead on the YouTube Music team, before ultimately leaving to start Beehiiv in 2021, where he is currently the CEO. Beehiiv is an all-in-one product suite for newsletters, powering some of the world's largest and most notable newsletters.
Katelyn Ohashi

Katelyn Ohashi

Katelyn Ohashi

American Gymnast
Katelyn Ohashi
16
Jul 16, 2025
Katelyn Ohashi is an American gymnast known for her joyful performances and inspiring message. A former elite gymnast, she was a four-time member of the U.S. Junior National Team and won the 2013 American Cup, one of the sport’s top competitions. After facing injuries, she stepped away from elite competition. At UCLA, under coach Valorie “Miss Val” Kondos Field, Katelyn rediscovered her love for gymnastics. She became a six-time All-American and earned her first perfect 10 with a Michael Jackson-themed routine. Her most famous routine, performed in 2019 to music by Tina Turner, Earth, Wind & Fire, and the Jacksons, went viral with over 40 million views and a perfect 10.0 score. Beyond gymnastics, Katelyn is a speaker and advocate for body positivity and mental health, openly sharing her struggles with eating disorders and body-shaming. Her story is one of resilience, joy, and being true to yourself.
Jenny Park

Jenny Park

Jenny Park

Jenny Park
16
Jul 16, 2025
Jenny Park is a leading voice on modern ambition and personal growth, known for her “big sister” storytelling style and a digital community of 200K across platforms. She has partnered with some of the world’s most recognized brands to bring that message to life, while also building her career inside top tech and media companies. Through it all, she’s redefining what success looks like and showing others it’s possible for them, too.

agenda

Landing Your Dream Internship
Ready to turn your internship dreams into reality? Lauren Berger built a multi-million dollar business connecting brands like Uber, Dunkin', and Revolve with Gen-Z talent—and she knows exactly what it takes to land that perfect internship. As the CEO of Intern Queen and bestselling author, Lauren will break down the step-by-step process for finding your dream opportunity. From leveraging social media professionally to mastering networking and building your personal brand, she'll share what companies actually look for and how you can stand out in today's competitive landscape. This session is your roadmap to making those internship goals a reality.
Lauren Berger
CEO & Founder of Intern Queen and IQ Marketing Agency
Authenticity in the Spotlight
What's it really like to live your life in front of millions? Batsheva Haart went from uploading YouTube videos to starring on Netflix's "My Unorthodox Life," and her journey of self-discovery has inspired nearly 2 million followers. She'll share the real talk about building a personal brand that's authentically you, navigating the fashion and beauty world, and what it's actually like being on reality TV. If you've ever wondered how to stay true to yourself while building your public presence, Batsheva's got the answers.
Batsheva Haart
Netflix Star & Content Creator
Building a Real Estate Empire
Adam Rosenfeld is living proof that real estate can be your path to building serious wealth. As a star of Netflix's hit show "Buying Beverly Hills" and a key player at Resident Group, Adam navigates the luxury real estate market where million-dollar deals are just another Tuesday. He'll break down what it really takes to succeed in real estate, from understanding the luxury market to becoming a developer and mastering real estate investing. Whether you're curious about the glitz and glamour of high-end properties or want to understand the business fundamentals that drive real estate success, Adam will share the keys to building a successful career in one of the world's most lucrative industries. This session covers everything from your first steps in real estate to scaling up to luxury developments—perfect for anyone who's ever wondered if real estate could be their ticket to financial freedom.
Adam Rosenfeld
Resident Group & Netflix's "Buying Beverly Hills" Star
From Dorm Room to Boardroom
Imagine you have to choose between being a doctor or an entrepreneur? Dr. Sanjay Sharma proves you can do both. This Harvard-educated eye surgeon didn't just stop at saving people's sight—he built multiple companies and revolutionized how medical education works. He'll share how he picked his specialty, what medicine really looks like today, how recent technology has transformed the field of medicine, and how he combined his medical expertise with business savvy to create something bigger than himself.
Dr. Sanjay Sharma
Harvard-Educated Surgeon & Entrepreneur
Discovering Your Purpose
What does it mean to be truly aligned with your purpose? Stephanie Cowan, a multi-talented creative who's built three successful businesses while following her inner compass, believes purpose isn't something you stumble upon—it's something you intentionally build. Through interactive exercises, reflection, and group conversations, you'll explore the powerful intersections of your interests, dreams, and values to start mapping out a personal path toward a life that feels authentic and joyful. Stephanie's journey took her from musical theatre major with Broadway dreams through many different chapters, all guided by listening deeply to her inner voice. Whether you're crystal clear on your goals or just starting to ask the big questions about your future, this workshop will give you practical tools and real inspiration to connect with your inner compass and discover how to bring all of yourself into whatever you choose to do next.
Stephanie Cowan
Creative Entrepreneur & Purpose Coach
Content Strategy That Actually Works
Brandon Smithwick didn't just make it onto Forbes' 30 Under 30 list by accident. As Kickstarter's Director of Content & Creative and founder of Content to Commas newsletter, he's mastered the art of content strategy that actually drives results. He's led award-winning campaigns at Squarespace, partnered with brands like Amazon Business and Canva, and recently advised Wix Studio. Brandon will break down what separates successful content from social media noise, how to build authentic brand partnerships, and why your content strategy needs to have real purpose behind the posts. This session is about content creation with intention and impact.
Brandon Smithwick
Kickstarter Director & Forbes 30 Under 30
The Creator Hustle
Three creators, one panel, endless insights. Gibson, Haven, and Jack are living proof that you can build something amazing while juggling school, work, and everything else life throws at you. They'll break down their social media strategies, share the behind-the-scenes reality of content creation, and reveal how they're actually making money through brand deals and collaborations. But this isn't just about the highlight reel—they'll get real about the daily challenges and hardships of content creation, the business side of social media most people never see, and the actual work that goes into creating content audiences genuinely love. This is your chance to learn from creators who are doing it right and building their futures one post at a time.
Gibson Ardoline, Haven Lough & Jack Nauseef
Multi-Platform Content Creators
Young Entrepreneurs Making Moves
Some people wait until after college to start their careers—Blake and Casey started building empires as teenagers. Blake turned his sneaker obsession into over $300,000 in revenue by age 16 and now runs B Wynn Sports and the Celebrity Poker Tour, while Casey launched his podcast at 17 and co-founded MediaKits, which was acquired by Viral Nation in 2022. Now he's building Listener.com, a vertically integrated podcast network. They'll share the real stories behind building businesses young, the mistakes they made, and practical strategies for turning your passions into profit while you're still in high school.
Blake Wynn, Casey Adams & Kieran O’Brien
Serial Entrepreneurs
Balancing It All
Katelyn Ohashi knows what it's like to perform under pressure. As a Division I athlete at UCLA, she mastered the art of balancing rigorous academics with elite athletics, all while dealing with the mental health challenges that come with high-stakes competition. Now she's using her platform to change how we talk about mental health. She'll share practical strategies for managing stress, finding balance, and why taking care of your mental health isn't just important—it's everything.
Katelyn Ohashi
UCLA Gymnast & Mental Health Advocate
Building Your Brand with Purpose
Jenny Park proves that fashion and mental health advocacy can go hand in hand. She'll share how she built her personal brand around authenticity, why mental health matters in entrepreneurship, and how your identity can become your superpower. If you're trying to figure out how to build something meaningful while staying true to who you are, Jenny's story will show you exactly how it's done.
Jenny Park
Fashion & Mental Health Entrepreneur
SPEAKER MEET & GREET
Corporate Brand Marketing Mastery
Ever wondered how a company like Shopify—the e-commerce engine that enables your favorite online brands to do business—stays relevant and connects with millions of people? Jessica Williams manages high-profile collaborations with MrBeast, Kai Cenat, Nicki Minaj, and Drake, positioning Shopify at the intersection of commerce, culture, and content. She'll walk you through her career journey, share how she manages massive brand campaigns for over 500+ creators across all platforms, and explain why networking isn't just a buzzword—it's everything. If you're curious about the business side of marketing or want to understand how corporate partnerships really work, this session will open your eyes to the possibilities.
Jessica Williams
Shopify Brand Marketing Directorlti-Platform Content Creators
Newsletter Empire Building
Tyler Denk went from being Morning Brew's second employee to building Beehiiv, the platform powering some of the world's biggest newsletters and raising $49.7 million in funding. He'll share how he identified a gap in the market, built a company from scratch, and navigated the world of venture capital fundraising. Plus, discover why newsletters are actually the future of content creation and how Beehiiv is empowering smaller creators to build sustainable businesses. If you're interested in tech, startups, or just want to understand how to spot opportunities others miss and turn them into fundable companies, remember that content takes all forms—and it's never too early to build your own platform.
Tyler Denk
Beehiiv CEO & Former Google Product Lead
Music Business Evolution
The music industry isn't what it used to be, and Jeremy Vuernick has been there for every major shift. As President of A&R at Capitol Music Group, he's signed and developed global superstars including Halsey, Marshmello, and has worked closely with Katy Perry, Paul McCartney, and Alesso. He also signed producer TM88 (behind Lil Uzi Vert's "XO TOUR Llif3") and oversaw artists like Porter Robinson and Illenium. Jeremy will share stories from working with these major artists, explain how the business side of music really works, and break down what "signing culture" means today. From branding to partnerships, he'll give you the inside scoop on how music and business intersect in ways you never imagined, and what it takes to spot and develop the next generation of global stars.
Jeremy Veurick
Music Industry Executive
Art Meets Entrepreneurship
At 12, Evan Sharma became the youngest artist ever to exhibit at Canada's prestigious Artist Project art fair, launching a career that proves creativity and business aren't just compatible—they're unstoppable together. Now a STEM major at Queen's University and angel investor in companies like Olipop and Happy Dad, Evan works at the intersection of art and science, using his unique perspective to tackle climate change through vivid, hope-inspiring artwork. His pieces have been acquired by collectors from NYC to Dubai and even the New York Stock Exchange, while his altruistic approach has raised over $150,000 for charities—including providing 140,000 meals for Kenyan children during COVID-19 through his nonprofit Covart. Recognized alongside Greta Thunberg and Malala Yousafzai as one of five youth worldwide affecting social change, Evan has been featured in documentaries by CBC Arts and Shopify Studios. He'll share how he turned early artistic recognition into entrepreneurial ventures, why combining creative passion with scientific thinking creates breakthrough opportunities, and how you can use whatever talents you have to build both profit and purpose. This session proves that following your artistic vision can lead to business success—and maybe even change the world.
Evan Sharma
Multidisciplinary Artist & Angel Investor
Lessons from Millionaires & Billionaires
What do the world's most successful people actually know that you don't? James Dumoulin has built The School of Hard Knocks into a massive platform with 6.3 million Instagram followers and 5 million on TikTok by doing one thing really well—getting millionaires and billionaires to spill their secrets. Through hundreds of interviews with ultra-successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, James has uncovered the patterns, mindsets, and strategies that separate those who make it from those who don't. This isn't theory from a textbook—these are real insights from people who've actually built empires. James will share the most powerful lessons he's learned from his conversations with some of the world's wealthiest individuals, breaking down what it really takes to live a successful life and build lasting wealth. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business or just want to understand how success actually works, this session will give you the insider knowledge that most people never get to hear.
James Dumoulin
The School of Hard Knocks (11.3M + Followers)
From TikTok to Business Empire
Josh Richards turned TikTok fame into a full-scale business empire that proves content creation is just the beginning. From his millions of followers across platforms to co-hosting Barstool Sports' BFFs podcast, Josh has built his own content studio and become a serial investor in emerging companies and technologies. He's shown that young creators can leverage their platforms to build real businesses, make strategic investments, and create lasting wealth beyond viral moments. Josh will break down the evolving landscape of content creation, share how he identified business opportunities within the creator economy, and reveal what young people with big ideas can actually execute right now. Whether you're already creating content or just starting to think about your digital presence, this session will show you how to think like an entrepreneur and turn your ideas into sustainable business ventures. This isn't just about going viral—it's about building an empire.
Josh Richards
Social Media Mogul & Entrepreneur
JOSH RICHARDS MEET & GREET
Landing Your Dream Internship
Lauren Berger
CEO & Founder of Intern Queen and IQ Marketing Agency
Ready to turn your internship dreams into reality? Lauren Berger built a multi-million dollar business connecting brands like Uber, Dunkin', and Revolve with Gen-Z talent—and she knows exactly what it takes to land that perfect internship. As the CEO of Intern Queen and bestselling author, Lauren will break down the step-by-step process for finding your dream opportunity. From leveraging social media professionally to mastering networking and building your personal brand, she'll share what companies actually look for and how you can stand out in today's competitive landscape. This session is your roadmap to making those internship goals a reality.
[B1] Authenticity in the Spotlight
Batsheva Haart
Netflix Star & Content Creator
What's it really like to live your life in front of millions? Batsheva Haart went from uploading YouTube videos to starring on Netflix's "My Unorthodox Life," and her journey of self-discovery has inspired nearly 2 million followers. She'll share the real talk about building a personal brand that's authentically you, navigating the fashion and beauty world, and what it's actually like being on reality TV. If you've ever wondered how to stay true to yourself while building your public presence, Batsheva's got the answers.
[B1] Building Real Estate Empire
Adam Rosenfeld
Resident Group & Netflix's "Buying Beverly Hills" Star
Adam Rosenfeld is living proof that real estate can be your path to building serious wealth. As a star of Netflix's hit show "Buying Beverly Hills" and a key player at Resident Group, Adam navigates the luxury real estate market where million-dollar deals are just another Tuesday. He'll break down what it really takes to succeed in real estate, from understanding the luxury market to becoming a developer and mastering real estate investing. Whether you're curious about the glitz and glamour of high-end properties or want to understand the business fundamentals that drive real estate success, Adam will share the keys to building a successful career in one of the world's most lucrative industries. This session covers everything from your first steps in real estate to scaling up to luxury developments—perfect for anyone who's ever wondered if real estate could be their ticket to financial freedom.
[B1] From Dorm Room to Boardroom
Dr. Sanjay Sharma
Harvard-Educated Surgeon & Entrepreneur
Imagine you have to choose between being a doctor or an entrepreneur? Dr. Sanjay Sharma proves you can do both. This Harvard-educated eye surgeon didn't just stop at saving people's sight—he built multiple companies and revolutionized how medical education works. He'll share how he picked his specialty, what medicine really looks like today, how recent technology has transformed the field of medicine, and how he combined his medical expertise with business savvy to create something bigger than himself.
[B1] Discovering Your Purpose
Stephanie Cowan
Creative Entrepreneur & Purpose Coach
What does it mean to be truly aligned with your purpose? Stephanie Cowan, a multi-talented creative who's built three successful businesses while following her inner compass, believes purpose isn't something you stumble upon—it's something you intentionally build. Through interactive exercises, reflection, and group conversations, you'll explore the powerful intersections of your interests, dreams, and values to start mapping out a personal path toward a life that feels authentic and joyful. Stephanie's journey took her from musical theatre major with Broadway dreams through many different chapters, all guided by listening deeply to her inner voice. Whether you're crystal clear on your goals or just starting to ask the big questions about your future, this workshop will give you practical tools and real inspiration to connect with your inner compass and discover how to bring all of yourself into whatever you choose to do next.
[B1] Content Strategy That Actually Works
Brandon Smithwick
Kickstarter Director & Forbes 30 Under 30
Brandon Smithwick didn't just make it onto Forbes' 30 Under 30 list by accident. As Kickstarter's Director of Content & Creative and founder of Content to Commas newsletter, he's mastered the art of content strategy that actually drives results. He's led award-winning campaigns at Squarespace, partnered with brands like Amazon Business and Canva, and recently advised Wix Studio. Brandon will break down what separates successful content from social media noise, how to build authentic brand partnerships, and why your content strategy needs to have real purpose behind the posts. This session is about content creation with intention and impact.
[B2] The Creator Hustle
Gibson Ardoline, Haven Lough & Jack Nauseef
Multi-Platform Content Creators
Three creators, one panel, endless insights. Gibson, Haven, and Jack are living proof that you can build something amazing while juggling school, work, and everything else life throws at you. They'll break down their social media strategies, share the behind-the-scenes reality of content creation, and reveal how they're actually making money through brand deals and collaborations. But this isn't just about the highlight reel—they'll get real about the daily challenges and hardships of content creation, the business side of social media most people never see, and the actual work that goes into creating content audiences genuinely love. This is your chance to learn from creators who are doing it right and building their futures one post at a time.
[B2] Young Entrepreneurs Making Moves
Blake Wynn, Casey Adams & Kieran O’Brien
Serial Entrepreneurs
Some people wait until after college to start their careers—Blake and Casey started building empires as teenagers. Blake turned his sneaker obsession into over $300,000 in revenue by age 16 and now runs B Wynn Sports and the Celebrity Poker Tour, while Casey launched his podcast at 17 and co-founded MediaKits, which was acquired by Viral Nation in 2022. Now he's building Listener.com, a vertically integrated podcast network. They'll share the real stories behind building businesses young, the mistakes they made, and practical strategies for turning your passions into profit while you're still in high school.
[B2] Balancing It All
Katelyn Ohashi
UCLA Gymnast & Mental Health Advocate
Katelyn Ohashi knows what it's like to perform under pressure. As a Division I athlete at UCLA, she mastered the art of balancing rigorous academics with elite athletics, all while dealing with the mental health challenges that come with high-stakes competition. Now she's using her platform to change how we talk about mental health. She'll share practical strategies for managing stress, finding balance, and why taking care of your mental health isn't just important—it's everything.
[B2] Building Your Brand with Purpose
Jenny Park
Fashion & Mental Health Entrepreneur
Jenny Park proves that fashion and mental health advocacy can go hand in hand. She'll share how she built her personal brand around authenticity, why mental health matters in entrepreneurship, and how your identity can become your superpower. If you're trying to figure out how to build something meaningful while staying true to who you are, Jenny's story will show you exactly how it's done.
[B3] Corporate Brand Marketing Mastery
Jessica Williams
Shopify Brand Marketing Directorlti-Platform Content Creators
Ever wondered how a company like Shopify—the e-commerce engine that enables your favorite online brands to do business—stays relevant and connects with millions of people? Jessica Williams manages high-profile collaborations with MrBeast, Kai Cenat, Nicki Minaj, and Drake, positioning Shopify at the intersection of commerce, culture, and content. She'll walk you through her career journey, share how she manages massive brand campaigns for over 500+ creators across all platforms, and explain why networking isn't just a buzzword—it's everything. If you're curious about the business side of marketing or want to understand how corporate partnerships really work, this session will open your eyes to the possibilities.
[B3] Newsletter Empire Building
Tyler Denk
Beehiiv CEO & Former Google Product Lead
Tyler Denk went from being Morning Brew's second employee to building Beehiiv, the platform powering some of the world's biggest newsletters and raising $49.7 million in funding. He'll share how he identified a gap in the market, built a company from scratch, and navigated the world of venture capital fundraising. Plus, discover why newsletters are actually the future of content creation and how Beehiiv is empowering smaller creators to build sustainable businesses. If you're interested in tech, startups, or just want to understand how to spot opportunities others miss and turn them into fundable companies, remember that content takes all forms—and it's never too early to build your own platform.
[B3] Music Business Evolution
Jeremy Veurick
Music Industry Executive
The music industry isn't what it used to be, and Jeremy Vuernick has been there for every major shift. As President of A&R at Capitol Music Group, he's signed and developed global superstars including Halsey, Marshmello, and has worked closely with Katy Perry, Paul McCartney, and Alesso. He also signed producer TM88 (behind Lil Uzi Vert's "XO TOUR Llif3") and oversaw artists like Porter Robinson and Illenium. Jeremy will share stories from working with these major artists, explain how the business side of music really works, and break down what "signing culture" means today. From branding to partnerships, he'll give you the inside scoop on how music and business intersect in ways you never imagined, and what it takes to spot and develop the next generation of global stars.
[B3] Art Meets Entrepreneurship
Evan Sharma
Multidisciplinary Artist & Angel Investor
At 12, Evan Sharma became the youngest artist ever to exhibit at Canada's prestigious Artist Project art fair, launching a career that proves creativity and business aren't just compatible—they're unstoppable together. Now a STEM major at Queen's University and angel investor in companies like Olipop and Happy Dad, Evan works at the intersection of art and science, using his unique perspective to tackle climate change through vivid, hope-inspiring artwork. His pieces have been acquired by collectors from NYC to Dubai and even the New York Stock Exchange, while his altruistic approach has raised over $150,000 for charities—including providing 140,000 meals for Kenyan children during COVID-19 through his nonprofit Covart. Recognized alongside Greta Thunberg and Malala Yousafzai as one of five youth worldwide affecting social change, Evan has been featured in documentaries by CBC Arts and Shopify Studios. He'll share how he turned early artistic recognition into entrepreneurial ventures, why combining creative passion with scientific thinking creates breakthrough opportunities, and how you can use whatever talents you have to build both profit and purpose. This session proves that following your artistic vision can lead to business success—and maybe even change the world.
[B3] Lessons from Millionaires & Billionaires
James Dumoulin
The School of Hard Knocks (11.3M + Followers)
What do the world's most successful people actually know that you don't? James Dumoulin has built The School of Hard Knocks into a massive platform with 6.3 million Instagram followers and 5 million on TikTok by doing one thing really well—getting millionaires and billionaires to spill their secrets. Through hundreds of interviews with ultra-successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, James has uncovered the patterns, mindsets, and strategies that separate those who make it from those who don't. This isn't theory from a textbook—these are real insights from people who've actually built empires. James will share the most powerful lessons he's learned from his conversations with some of the world's wealthiest individuals, breaking down what it really takes to live a successful life and build lasting wealth. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business or just want to understand how success actually works, this session will give you the insider knowledge that most people never get to hear.
[Keynote] From TikTok to Business Empire
Josh Richards
Social Media Mogul & Entrepreneur
Josh Richards turned TikTok fame into a full-scale business empire that proves content creation is just the beginning. From his millions of followers across platforms to co-hosting Barstool Sports' BFFs podcast, Josh has built his own content studio and become a serial investor in emerging companies and technologies. He's shown that young creators can leverage their platforms to build real businesses, make strategic investments, and create lasting wealth beyond viral moments. Josh will break down the evolving landscape of content creation, share how he identified business opportunities within the creator economy, and reveal what young people with big ideas can actually execute right now. Whether you're already creating content or just starting to think about your digital presence, this session will show you how to think like an entrepreneur and turn your ideas into sustainable business ventures. This isn't just about going viral—it's about building an empire.

stay involved

Keep up to date on all things Discovery 2025
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

enroll to attend

Summer Discovery is the largest provider of pre-college, enrichment, and gifted summer programs and experiences for students from grades one through twelve. We offer students across the globe an unrivaled summer experience with access to world-class academics through our collaboration with university partners, interactive enrichment courses, immersive travel adventures, and residential life experiences at world-renowned institutions of higher learning, including more than half of the Ivy League.