Founder of two thriving communities serving 38,000+ Northeast Ohioans, including 133 founders representing $1.27B in revenue and 4,087 jobs.
Building brands people feel something about
I speak to entrepreneurs, marketing teams, and civic organizations about building brands that people actually care about, from finding your humanity, connecting with your clients, and building a sustainable business in an automated, overstimulating world.
01
Belonging is the New Competitive Advantage
Why human connection is becoming the most valuable asset a business can build.
In a world where AI can generate content, we live through our screens, and loneliness is at an all-time high, belonging is becoming the one thing technology can't replace. Learn how the strongest brands create trust, loyalty, unforgettable customer experiences, and communities people genuinely want to be part of.Perfect for: Business leaders, marketers, entrepreneurs, chambers, and associations.
02
From Audience to Belonging
A practical framework for turning attention into trust – and trust into lasting community.
Growing an audience is easy. Creating a place where people feel they belong is something entirely different. This keynote introduces a practical framework for moving people from passive followers to active participants and passionate advocates for your brand.Perfect for: Marketing teams, nonprofits, membership organizations, tourism, economic development, and community builders.
03
Building a Brand People Want to Belong To
Lessons from growing Clevelandish into one of Northeast Ohio's fastest-growing brands
Clevelandish isn't the topic - it's the case study. Through the story of building a thriving regional brand, you'll learn timeless principles for creating brands that earn attention, inspire trust, and build genuine loyalty in an increasingly noisy world.Perfect for: Entrepreneurs, marketers, destination organizations, chambers, startups, and small businesses.
Who This Is For
Business conferences
Chamber of Commerce events
Leadership teams & company retreats
Entrepreneur & founder communities
Marketing and communications professionals
Economic development organizations
Nonprofits & membership organizations
Rotary & civic groups
What Audiences Walk Away With
A clear way to stand out without shouting louder
Practical, repeatable strategies you can actually use right away
How to become impossible to ignore in a crowded, automated world
A renewed sense of what makes people care — and how to bring that back into your brand
And a room that leaves feeling more energized, hopeful, and ready to take action
About
Amy Vartenuk is the founder of Bedrock and Clevelandish, where she's built communities that bring together more than 38,000 people and 133 founders representing $1.27B in revenue.She speaks on human connection, belonging, trust, and community – showing organizations how to build brands, cultures, and experiences people genuinely want to be part of.
Let's Talk...
Bring Amy to Your Next Event
Whether you're planning a conference, leadership retreat, chamber luncheon, or founder event, Amy delivers practical, thought-provoking talks that leave audiences inspired – and equipped with ideas they can put into action immediately.Now booking for 2026. Available for keynotes, workshops, and panels. →
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Thank you
Submitted! Amy will be in touch to talk about details, answer questions, and possibly become best friends.