Thanks to Anna for sharing a few standout moments from this signature industry event, in today's post!
Story time from PCMA Convening Leaders 2025!
A week before CL, I posted a photo of my Brené Brown book collection with the caption, “All packed for CL!”
As someone who’s listened to her audiobooks, annotated her physical books, and follows her podcast, you can imagine my fangirl excitement knowing she’d be a keynote speaker.
I’m a firm believer in the “name it to tame it” approach, and Brené’s wisdom on vulnerability, courage, and wholehearted living has been inspiring to me in so many ways.
Just a few days before CL, I get a text from the amazing Meredith Douglas — an absolute powerhouse in our industry — saying, “I saw your post on LinkedIn! I have an empty seat in my BOD VIP seating during Brené’s keynote, and I thought you might like to fill it!” That was an easy yes.
Fast-forward to the event this week when, ten minutes before Brené finishes speaking, Meredith turns to me and says, “Would you like to meet Brené? It was [PCMA CEO] Sherrif Karamat’s idea. He saw your LinkedIn post and said, ‘We have to figure out how to have Anna meet her.’”
Cue the nerves as I’m escorted backstage thinking, “Don’t cry, Anna.” And there I was—one of only three people to meet the incredible Brené Brown that day. Meeting her felt like stepping into what she calls the “arena”—a moment of both vulnerability and triumph.
I’m still in awe of Sherrif and Meredith’s thoughtfulness and leadership. It’s moments like these that remind me just how special PCMA is as an organization. Out of nearly 5,000 attendees, I felt like the only one in the room.
That’s the magic of PCMA — it fosters brave spaces where connections are rooted in authenticity, and every member feels seen and valued. If you’re thinking of joining, JOIN NOW. If you’re considering volunteering, DO IT. Let my personal journey be your inspiration and motivation.
But wait: there's more!
Riding the high of that incredible day, I wandered over to The District Puppy Park, where this adorable fuzzy bundle of joy found his way into my heart.
Meet Houston 'Brown' (aka Huey B), the newest member of my family and a forever memory from my favorite Convening Leaders to date.
To Sherrif, Meredith, and everyone who makes PCMA what it is: thank you for creating these life-changing moments. You’ve made an indelible mark on my heart and reminded me that daring greatly isn’t just something we read about — it’s something we live.
Looking to have just as epic of a time with your own Houston event? Get in touch with our local DMC partner, Cosmo Cool Concepts!
