Gather Better Showcase
January 21-23, 2026 | Chicago, IL
Our Intent
We are hosting a two-day immersive experience for high-capacity leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking for clarity, momentum, and growth. We believe that thoughtful content and intentional community can create real and lasting transformation. What makes this gathering unique is the precision and purpose behind every detail—an obsessive commitment, shaped by 20 years of experience, to helping people take meaningful action. And we believe that if we gather better, people will walk away connected, equipped, and ready to move forward with courage.
Who is it for?
Individuals Considering a Change
You’re feeling the pull of potential — a shift, a new direction, or an opportunity you don’t want to miss. Whether you're exploring a promotion, a pivot, a side hustle, or a full career transition, this week helps you gain clarity and momentum. If you know something is changing but aren’t sure what comes next, this is for you.
Leaders in an Organization
You lead teams, projects, or culture — formally or informally — and want more clarity, structure, and alignment in your work. This experience gives you practical tools for quarterly planning, strategy, and intentional leadership. It’s for the intrapreneurs, the problem-solvers, and the people others naturally look to for direction.
Gathering Professionals
You’re someone who brings people together: hosts, community builders, conveners, and leaders who care deeply about connection. You believe gatherings shape culture, and you want to elevate the way you create meaningful experiences. This week invites you into a community of intentional gatherers who value generosity, humanity, and purpose.
Agenda
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21
Location: Chicago, IL
Morning–Afternoon | Arrivals, optional coworking, No formal programming
THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 — Principle Barbers
8:00 AM | Optional Dad Bod Yoga - David Carnes
9:30 AM – 10:15 AM | Welcome and Keynote - Ben Jacobson
The Power of Retreat - by Gather Better
10:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Break
10:30 AM – 11:15 AM | Master of Many Session - David Carnes
Why Generalists are Positioned to Thrive
11:15 AM – 11:30 AM | Break
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM | Session 3
12:15 PM – 1:15 PM
Lunch (with two 5-minute vendor showcases)
1:15 PM – 2:00 PM | Session 4
2:00 PM – 2:15 PM | Break
2:15 PM – 3:00 PM | Session 5
3:00 PM – 3:15 PM | Break
3:15 PM – 4:00 PM | Session 6
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Free Time
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Gather Better Launch Party (Invite-Only)
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 — Loft Lucia
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Leadership & Quarterly Planning Intensive Workshop
12:00 PM onward | Departures / optional coworking
Agenda: Narrative format
Gather Better Launch Week begins with a soft landing on Wednesday, giving you space to arrive at your own pace, settle in, and ease out of your normal rhythm with optional coworking in the afternoon. On Thursday, you step into a full day of immersive sessions designed to spark clarity, reflection, and momentum as you explore your next chapter, connect with others, and end the evening in celebration at the Gather Better Launch Party. Friday brings everything together with a focused quarterly planning intensive in a bright, energizing space, equipping you with clarity, alignment, and a practical rhythm to carry your momentum into the year ahead.
Speakers
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Ben Jacobson
Founder, Gather Better
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Maelyn Jalandoni
Founder, Saint and Social
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David Carnes
Founder, Master of Many
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Jeremy Rivers
Founder, Frontier Group
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Jaya Dixon
MARKETING DIRECTOR
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Jamie Kokot
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Venues
Where we gather matters.
Thoughtfully curated gathering venues, thanks to our generous venue sponsors.
Thursday: Principle Barbers
Friday: Loft Lucia
Make it stand out