Spring Retreat 2025
Registration Now Open
Spring Retreat registration is now LIVE! Register by March 27 to take advantage of your member benefit of no-fee registration. We are looking forward to seeing you at Kingsmill Resort on April 30-May 2, 2025.
Several dynamic keynote and workshop speakers are lined up to Celebrate 25 Years of Growing Leaders. Learn the art of negotiation, AI intelligence, how to become a healthier CEO, and the economic opportunities and challenges facing us in 2025 and beyond. Join members and sponsors to connect, learn, and grow.
Learn more below!
VACEOs 2025 Spring Retreat Overview
Wednesday Recreational Activities
Welcome to Spring Retreat 2025
About The Venue: Kingsmill Resort
We are so excited to return to Kingsmill to celebrate our 25th Anniversary, learn from powerful speakers, and spend time with fellow VACEOs members and sponsors! Reserve your room for two nights, starting April 30, by calling 800-832-5665 or using the link below by April 8.
2025 Spring Retreat Keynote Speakers and Workshop Presenters
The VA Council of CEOs 2025 Spring Retreat includes internationally-acclaimed keynote speakers and workshops tackling the challenges that are most on the minds of the CEO of today.
Chris Voss Presents Art of Negotiation from FBI Hostage Negotiator
May 1, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.
Never Split the Difference – Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It.
Chris is a former lead FBI Negotiator and dynamic speaker who debunks the biggest myths of negotiation. Chris engages audiences with captivating stories, insights, and useful tips for business and everyday life.
About Chris Voss
Chris used his many years of experience in international crises and high-stakes negotiations to develop a unique negotiation training program. The Black Swan Method has since grown into a holistic set of tactics and approaches that apply globally-proven negotiation techniques to the world of business.
Prior to 2008, Chris was the lead international kidnapping negotiator for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), as well as the FBI’s hostage negotiation representative for the National Security Council’s Hostage Working Group. During his career, he also represented the U.S. government as an expert in kidnapping at two international conferences sponsored by the G8.
Before becoming the FBI’s lead international kidnapping negotiator, Christopher served as the lead Crisis Negotiator for the New York City division of the FBI. Chris was a member of the New York City Joint Terrorist Task Force for 14 years. He was the case agent on TERRSTOP (Omar Abdel-Rahman/”The Blind Sheikh” case) and the TWA Flight 800 catastrophe. He also negotiated the surrender of the first hostage taker to give up in the Chase Manhattan Bank robbery.
During Chris’s 24-year tenure with he Bureau, he was trained in the art of negotiation by not only the FBI, but also Scotland Yard and Harvard Law School. He is also a recipient of the Attorney General’s Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement and the FBI Agents Association Award for Distinguished and Exemplary Service.
Chris has taught business negotiation in MBA programs as an adjunct professor at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business, and at Georgetown University McDonough School of Business. He also taught business negotiation at Harvard University and guest lectured at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, the IMD Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland, and the Goethe Business School in Frankfurt, Germany.
Since 2009, Chris has also worked with Insite Security as their Managing Director of the Kidnapping Resolution Practice.
Susan Frew Presents Compete on Awesome with AI (Keynote)
May 1, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Susan Frew is a dynamic keynote speaker who transforms the way teams think about business using the power of AI. Drawing from her experience growing a small family business by 535% in just 18 months, Susan shares actionable insights on leveraging unique strengths, innovative marketing, and exceptional customer service. Susan doesn’t just speak—she creates a custom GPT for every conference, delivering an engaging, real-time experience that resonates with your audience.
Susan demystifies all of the AI tools, showing practical ways to boost productivity, communication, and creativity. Your audience will leave with real-world, actionable strategies for automating tasks, enhancing visual impact, and leveraging AI for smarter decision-making.
Susan Frew Presents Compete on Awesome with AI (Workshop)
May 1, 2025
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Susan Frew will help attendees dive deep into AI applications. This dynamic workshop format ensures practical, actionable insights, empowering your team to harness AI’s full potential and drive innovation within your organization. This is also a revenue generator for your organization!
About Susan Frew
Susan Frew is America’s go-to AI expert for small businesses, turning challenges into extraordinary growth stories. Under her leadership, her company achieved an incredible 535% growth, earned a place on the prestigious Inc5000 list, and won 43 industry awards. Known for her hands-on approach, Susan teaches audiences exactly how to leverage AI to save money, streamline operations, and achieve efficiency in their businesses.
With a rich career as an International GM for AT&T Wireless and an SBA’s national Emerging Leaders program instructor, Susan blends corporate savvy with entrepreneurial grit. A TEDx speaker, sought-after emcee, and celebrated business coach, she captivates audiences by demystifying AI and making it accessible, practical, and profitable.
Dubbed “The Thriftinista,” Susan’s innovative mindset extends beyond tech, offering creative solutions for business growth. Her philosophy is simple: take bold risks, explore new frontiers, and always aim for awesome.
Susan’s book, Compete on Awesome with AI, is a game-changer, equipping entrepreneurs with actionable insights to build sustainable, thriving businesses. Whether on stage or on the page, Susan’s energy inspires others to confidently embrace the future and take their businesses to unprecedented heights.
Grant Neely and Rachel Yost Presents Generations at Work
May 1, 2025
1:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Embracing the Modern Workplace Culture
Join us for an engaging workshop that delves into the dynamics of today’s diverse workforce. This session will highlight the “10 Traits of Modern Workplace Culture”, revealing key characteristics that define contemporary professional environments. Attendees will gain insights into the strengths of various generations to foster a collaborative and innovative workplace.
About Grant Neely
For more than two decades, Grant Neely has shaped strategy and communications for CEOs and government leaders around the world. He brings this wealth of experience to S.I.R.’s strategic communications, research, and planning projects. Prior to joining the S.I.R. team, he served as Virginia’s Cabinet-level Chief Communications Officer, where he was responsible for developing and executing strategic communications for the Governor of the country’s 12th-largest state.
Grant has also advised Fortune 500 CEOs on business communications, community projects, and political activities shaping corporate reputation. Key corporate clients have included executives at Pfizer, Novartis, AbbVie, Dominion Energy, and others, and he previously served as Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Richmond, Virginia. Grant has published numerous guest essays, op-eds, and letters under the names of various business leaders and elected officials. He has taught strategic communications at the City University of New York and at Virginia Union University and has won numerous awards for communications.
His family has lived in Guilford County for more than 90 years. He has spent countless joy-filled hours here over many years, usually at just one house.
About Rachel Yost
As managing partner, Rachel leads S.I.R.’s practice area in tourism, cities, economic development, and placemaking.
Since joining the team in 2005, she has been immersed in every aspect of the research and planning process, and she has led S.I.R.’s ongoing quantitative and qualitative research efforts. She works closely with the S.I.R. team to lead thoughtful project design, questionnaire development, fieldwork supervision, data analysis, reporting, and presentation — all to inform a final data-driven strategy that supports the client’s business goals.
Rachel is also a national keynote presenter and has shared S.I.R.’s trends research with many audiences across the country. Notably, Rachel is one of America’s experts on how Millennials and Gen Z workers think and behave as young professionals.
Rachel is actively involved in the local community. She serves on the board of ChamberRVA (Richmond’s regional chamber of commerce) and sits on the Board of Directors for For Richmond. In 2017, she became the youngest-ever member of the MCV Foundation Board of Trustees. She previously served on the young professionals board for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation — which also named her Outstanding Young Professional in 2016.
Bethany Watkins Presents Nutrition Strategies for the Busy Executive: Enhancing Performance and Well-Being
May 1, 2025
1:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
The Connection Between Nutrition and Executive Performance
This session will focus on how busy executives can optimize their nutrition to improve energy, cognitive function, and overall well-being while maintaining a demanding schedule. Proper nutrition isn’t just about maintaining health- it’s a vital tool for enhancing productivity, mental clarity, and leadership performance.
Why does nutrition matter to executives? High-pressure environments demand sustained mental focus and physical stamina. Poor nutrition can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and burnout. The link between nutrition and cognitive function, decision-making, and energy management.
This workshop will emphasize time-saving, practical strategies for incorporating healthy eating habits within the constraints of a busy work schedule.
About Bethany Watkins
Bethany Watkins is a registered dietitian, culinary nutritionist, fitness consultant, frequently consulted for her “Happy Body Bites” recipes and regularly featured on social media where she motivates, educates and inspires people to become the healthiest and happiest version of themselves.
Her private practice, Happy Body Wellness, consists of 6 Registered Dietitians operating in person and remotely to help people discover what matters most when it comes to nutrition. There is a ton of false and misleading information out there including plenty of fads that recommend one food over another but the truth is, you can eat ALL kinds of foods and still be healthy and fit.
We use data, research, and experience to empower individuals to make informed health and wellness decisions and we base all of our recommendations on YOUR lifestyle. We will help you to figure out what you should be skeptical about and what you should totally sink your teeth into!
You can find Happy Body on Instagram and Facebook sharing posts about nutrition, fitness, rest, and stress management as well as delicious recipes.
Connor Lokar Presents Challenges and Opportunities in 2025-2026-2027
May 2, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
2025 and beyond will present opportunities and challenges to business leaders. Inflation and interest rates will return on the wings of government spending, a tightening labor market, global demand, and higher-cost production inputs from raw materials to electricity. Navigating the twin challenges of inflation and interest rates will require immediate action. We will discuss the timing and the actions to take to get your company ready for the next few years and the rest of the decade.
Manufacturing and the economy in general are in recovery, but the rate of rise will vary by industry and even geographic region. The information we present on the various domestic and global landscapes will allow decision-makers to position their companies for maximum return through the coming years.
About Connor Lokar
Few economists present their insights with the authority, accuracy, and humor that Connor Lokar brings to the stage. From the intimate executive retreat to the standing room-only keynote, he delivers practical economic intelligence with charm and candor.
Connor has been giving economic keynotes, workshops, and webinars across North America since he joined ITR Economics in 2014. With his quick wit and knack for storytelling, he successfully educates his audiences while simultaneously captivating them. Thousands of business leaders have enjoyed his dynamic approach; Connor emphasizes the applicability of economic intelligence and calls his audience to action.
When not on stage, Connor contributes his economic expertise in the role of trusted advisor, consulting directly with management teams of firms large and small. ITR’s clients meet with Connor at critical planning junctures to ensure that their strategic plans, goals, and internal initiatives are in alignment with their tailored forecasts. As ITR Economics’ senior forecaster, Connor has a particularly keen understanding of how forecasts are derived. The resulting insights enable clients to make the most of their economic outlooks.
Connor specializes in construction and industrial markets but consults and presents to businesses across all industries, helping them grow revenue and remain profitable through an everchanging business cycle. He has been featured in articles from AMT Online, NTD, and The Epoch Times.
2025 Spring Retreat Schedule
Wednesday, April 30
Recreational Options
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Golf Outing
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Pickleball
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM Seafood & Beverage Pairing (with a chef demonstration)
Programming Begins
2:30 – 4:00 PM Ignite Talks
4:30 – 5:30 PM Speed Networking
6:00 – 9:00 PM Party at the River (guest ticket available)
Thursday, May 1
8:00 AM Registration
8:00 – 9:00 AM Breakfast
9:00 – 10:40 AM Welcome and Art of Negotiation from FBI Hostage Negotiator with Chris Voss
10:40 – 11:00 AM Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Compete on Awesome with AI with Susan Frew
12:00 – 1:00 PM Lunch
1:00 – 4:30 PM Connection Cafe (Need a break? This is a good place to catch up with other attendees)
1:30 – 4:00 PM Recreational Options (pickleball courts and cornhole will be available)
1:00 – 2:30 PM WORKSHOPS A
1:00 – 2:30 PM Compete on Awesome with AI with Susan Frew
1:00 – 2:30 PM Generations at Work with Grant Neely and Rachel Yost
1:00 – 2:30 PM Nutrition Strategies for the Busy Executive with Bethany Watkins
2:30 – 2:45 PM Break
2:45 – 4:15 PM WORKSHOPS B
2:45 – 4:15 PM Generations at Work with Grant Neely and Rachel Yost
2:45 – 4:15 PM Nutrition Strategies for the Busy Executive with Bethany Watkins
6:00 – 8:30 PM Reception and Dinner (guest ticket available)
8:30 PM – 1:00 AM Hospitality
Friday, May 2
7:00 – 8:30 AM Breakfast in Elements
9:00 – 10:20 AM Welcome and Challenges and Opportunities in 2025 and Beyond with Connor Lokar
10:30 – 10:45 AM Checkout
Wednesday Recreational Activities
The following recreational activities are privately held for VACEOs Spring Retreat attendees.
Golf at The River Course
For more than three decades, The River Course has hosted the world’s best players competing in PGA and LPGA tours. When you experience Kingsmill golf, you’ll be inspired to rise up against the greats of today, and of years gone by. Bordered by the calm azure waters of the James River, this golf course in VA is a ‘must play’ and for those who have already, it’s a ‘must play again.’
Foursomes will compete in a scramble-style tournament. Shotgun start at 9:00 AM on April 30, 2025. Learn more about the course here.
Pickleball
Are you ready to serve up a little fun? Kingsmill residents can stay on top of their game with convenient access to our 15 remarkable tennis courts! Picking up pickleball? There are plenty of opportunities to get the competitive juices flowing or start a friendly game.
Sign up to play on Wednesday, April 30, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Courts will be reserved and available first come, first served for VACEOs folks on Thursday, May 1 from 1:30 – 4:00 PM if you need an active break. Make sure to reserve your ticket for Wednesday since space is limited!
Seafood & Beverage Pairing (with a chef demonstration)
At James Landing Grille, a Kingsmill chef will prepare three dishes and describe why they pair well together with a wine and beer option. The chef will also talk about local seafood and how they prepare the oysters and different seafoods.
Ignite Talks
Your experience. Your passion. Your eureka moment. Your expertise. These are the things we want you to share – in just five minutes!
VACEOs members and sponsors are invited to be a part of this “user-generated” session, where we will use the Ignite format – 20 slides, 15 seconds each, advancing automatically. That’s five minutes total. Step up with your idea and our program committee may pick you to be on stage!
We will provide a list of the presentations for attendees once the program committee has made the selection.
VACEOs Retreat 2025 FAQs
The 2025 VACEOs Retreat will be held at Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, VA from April 30-May 2 this year. Are you new to the Council? These answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Retreat experience may help.
Q: DOES MY MEMBERSHIP INCLUDE ENTRY INTO THE RETREAT?
A: Yes. This special yearly event is a benefit of your membership. The Retreat is where members are able to learn and connect with national thought leaders and each other. (And have some fun too!). You must register by March 27 for no fee.
Q. WHAT DOES REGISTRATION INCLUDE?
A: All Retreat programming, such as keynote speakers and workshops, is included. The following meals are also included for Members: Wednesday night party, Thursday light breakfast, Thursday lunch, Thursday night dinner/party, and Friday breakfast in Elements.
Membership does not include hotel rooms/expenses or special activities. Click here to see more details about activities.
Q: THE FIRST KEYNOTE STARTS ON THURSDAY MORNING. SHOULD I COME WEDNESDAY?
A: Yes! We are starting programming early this year, with Ignite Talks at 2:30 on Wednesday. And, you can join special activities like golf, pickleball, or seafood & beverages if you like. Speed Networking kicks off at 4:30 and our opening party follows.
See the 2025 VACEOs Retreat Schedule for a full listing of events for each day.
Q: DO I NEED TO BOOK A ROOM?
A: Yes. As soon as possible! We have a block of rooms reserved through April 8. Use the special group link found in your confirmation to make your reservation.
Q: SHOULD I BRING MY SPOUSE OR SIGNIFICANT OTHER?
A: We offer guest tickets for our Wednesday reception and Thursday night dinner/party. The Retreat program (keynote and workshops) is designed just for members and sponsors.
Q: IS THERE A DRESS CODE?
A: The standard is resort casual attire (collared sportshirts, sweaters, jackets, dress slacks, etc.). In the meeting room, be casual and comfortable. May want a sweater or jacket since the meeting room temperature can vary.
Wednesday Night’s Party at the River will be outside and casual, so make sure to dress for the weather! The Thursday night reception and dinner will be an opportunity to get more dressed up if you like.
Q: I’VE ARRIVED AT KINGSMILL. NOW WHAT?
Arriving Wednesday you can leave bags in your car, since you will drive to your room. Make your way to the group activity you’ve registered for or take advantage of other resort amenities, such as the spa. You can also stop by our registration at the James River Ballroom.
Still have a question? Please contact us!
VA COUNCIL OF CEOs
SPRING RETREAT 2025
This Event Is Made Possible Because of the
Generous Support of Our Sponsors
About VA Council of CEOs Spring Retreat
The VACEOS Annual Spring Retreat features acclaimed keynote speakers and workshops tackling the challenges that are most on the minds of small and mid-sized business owners of today. The event also includes time for networking and making connections. CEO members often say the Retreat is “worth the price of membership.” The event is included in membership. Learn more about VACEOs Member benefits.
(VACEOs Members and Sponsors only. Not a member or sponsor but interested in attending? Contact us at info@vaceos.org with questions.)