2026 Speakers

Dave is an award-winning journalist who covers the beverage-alcohol industry. He publishes Fingers, an independent newsletter about drinking in America. He also works as a contributing editor and columnist at VinePair, where he publishes the weekly beer-industry column Hop Take. His work has previously appeared in publications including The New York Times, The Guardian, Fast Company, and more, and has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation, the International Association of Culinary Professionals, and the North American Guild of Beer Writers. He lives in Richmond, Virginia.

Former professional hockey player within the Hartford Whalers (NHL) organization, competing in both the AHL and IHL. A career-ending injury led to a seamless transition to Plan B, initially centered around academic pursuits. Created a combined degree, Master of Health Services Administration and Law (M.H.S.A & LL.B) from Dalhousie University.

Commenced legal journey at the esteemed firm Tory Tory Deslauriers and Binnington before transitioning into the role of Senior Vice President at Medcan Health Management, at that time a promising startup. For almost a decade, collaborated closely with Medcan’s founder, driving market development, business capital, customer acquisition/relations, and product/service enhancements, ultimately solidifying Medcan as a premier brand in preventative and personalized medicine in Canada.

Instrumental in the seamless integration of Medcan’s corporate health business into the broader offerings of the predecessor company to Morneau Shepell, now known as Lifeworks, consolidating Canada’s dominant position in corporate health and productivity services. Held a pivotal position on the Executive Committee, contributing to the strategic direction and overall success of the organization, which culminated in the acquisition of Lifeworks by Telus in 2022 for approximately $3 billion. Co-founded ReGen Scientific, an innovative personalized health ecosystem committed to empowering individuals to optimize their overall well-being.

Amid the challenging landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic, established ONTogether, a not-for-profit initiative dedicated to raising financial support for community-based mental health and social service organizations at the forefront of providing essential care. Devoted volunteer actively engaged with various organizations focused on advancing affordable housing, healthcare, community social services, mental health and addiction support, animal welfare, and the performing arts community. Leveraged passion for athletics and education, coaching elite-level hockey players, many of whom have successfully transitioned to the NHL, the Ontario Hockey League, or secured placements at NCAA Division 1 universities. Graduated as part of the inaugural cohort from the University of Missouri, holding a Master’s in Education with a focus on Positive Psychology and Performance and has taught Lawyer as Negotiator at Osgoode Hall Law School.