Jake Karls is reimagining modern leadership—unfiltered, deeply relatable, and fueled by purpose. As Co-founder and Chief Rainmaker of Mid-Day Squares, he has transformed what started as a kitchen-table concept into a brand that’s reshaping how we snack. With a mission to bring authenticity and ‘good-for-you’ indulgence to the chocolate aisle, Mid-Day Squares is leading a bold disruption in one of the most competitive industries. Recognized as a rising star in the business world, he’s a finalist for EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year and has earned a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in Food and Beverage. Regularly a contributor to media outlets across North America.
TikTok’s rapid evolution demands brands stay agile, with its 2025 trend report highlighting community-driven storytelling, AI innovation, and cultural resonance as keys to unlocking sales growth. As the platform’s global user base spends 4.43 billion minutes daily watching videos, businesses must adapt to trends like “Brand Chem”—collaborating with creators and audiences to co-create culturally relevant content. This panel will explore actionable strategies to align with TikTok’s shifting dynamics, from leveraging AI tools like Symphony Assistant to amplifying niche communities through micro-influencers and shoppable UGC. Expect to hear about:
Pick A Table, Bring Your Challenges, Get Solutions (And A Drink!)
Table 1: Toastmasters: Developing the Public Speaking Skillset to Promote Your Personal Brand
Host:
Table 2: Crafting Your Personal Brand: Strategies for Authenticity and Visibility
Host: Jake Karls, Co-Founder & Rainmaker, Mid-Day Squares
Table 3: Mastering the Art & Science of Personalization
Host:
Table 4: eCommerce Teams of the Future
Host: Kacey Sharrett, Former Head of Global Direct to Consumer, GoPro
Table 5: TBD
Host: Sarah Snudden, Head of JDE US Consumer Insights, JDE Peet’s
Table 6: TBD
Host: Monica Gorycki, Head of eCommerce at Stonewall Kitchen
Table 7: Crowd-Powered Commerce: The Magic of Social Proof
Host: TBD
In this keynote, Jake will discuss how to win and retain the attention of consumers and how to break through all the noise and build a brand that stands out from the crowd. He will be deep diving into the power of authenticity, storytelling and community.
Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Jake.
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