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Theme: Taking on Goliath with Michael J. Coles

Michael J. Coles, a trailblazing entrepreneur and author, will share his remarkable journey of resilience and success in a talk titled “Taking on Goliath.” Drawing from his life experiences, Coles highlighted how challenges can become stepping stones to greatness.

Coles will recount his unconventional rise in business, starting with just $8,000 to co-found The Great American Cookie Company, which grew into a $100-million enterprise. He also shared insights from his tenure as CEO of Caribou Coffee and Chairman of Brand Bank, emphasizing how determination and innovation can fuel success.

A near-fatal motorcycle accident became a turning point in Coles’ life. Despite being told he might never walk again, he defied the odds through perseverance and went on to set three transcontinental bicycling world records. His story illustrated how grit and a positive mindset can turn setbacks into achievements.

Through anecdotes from his book, Time to Get Tough: How Cookies, Coffee, and a Crash Led to Success in Business and Life, Coles inspires audiences to embrace challenges, take risks, and redefine success on their terms. His story serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity and achieve greatness.