Ashlee Ammons and Kerry Schrader Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Ashlee Ammons and Kerry Schrader, the dynamic mother-daughter duo, are making waves as trailblazers in the tech startup industry. They are the co-founders of Mixtroz, a platform designed to mix crowds and drive meaningful connections at events. Their journey is a testament to innovation born from necessity and the power of diverse perspectives in entrepreneurship. The idea for Mixtroz came to Ashlee and Kerry while attending a conference in 2014. Disheartened by the lack of opportunities for meaningful interaction, they envisioned a tool that could facilitate networking and engagement. Neither came from a traditional tech background, but their combined experience in people management and strategic insight fueled their determination. Ashlee’s background in events and Kerry’s corporate know-how formed the perfect blend to drive their venture forward. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Mixtroz has gained significant recognition, winning awards like the Rise of the Rest pitch competition by Steve Case. The company’s mission is firmly rooted in fostering genuine human connection—something both founders are deeply passionate about. They understand that when people connect, businesses thrive, ideas multiply, and communities strengthen. As champions of diversity and inclusion, Ashlee and Kerry leverage their platform to advocate for underrepresented founders, especially women of color in tech. Their success story continually inspires others to break barriers and pursue ventures, regardless of the odds. They emphasize the importance of diversity not just for representation, but as a critical component of innovation and business success. Together, Ashlee Ammons and Kerry Schrader continue to redefine the entrepreneurial landscape. Their commitment extends beyond their business, impacting how communities engage and grow. Through Mixtroz, they are not just building a company but nurturing a legacy of connection, empowerment, and change.