Meet Our Guest Speakers!

Ms. Smoak has been with the Agency for Health Care Administration since August 1995. She is the Deputy Secretary of the Health Quality Assurance Division. The Division is responsible for the regulation and oversight of more than 30 types of health care facilities and businesses (providers) and managed care organizations and more than 50,000 facilities/providers, including nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, health care clinics, nurse registry, federally certified laboratories, and others.

Ms. Smoak is also the State Survey Agency Director for the State of Florida and holds a Master of Science in Health with a program emphasis on Aging Studies. She is also a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP). In 2009 and 2017, she received Survey & Certification Achievement Awards, presented by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, for her work in Survey and Certification.

Ms. Smoak received the 2024 Champion for the Elderly Award from the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA). The FHCA Champion for the Elderly Award is presented to individuals who have gone above and beyond to advocate for and enhance the care delivered in Florida’s long-term care centers.

President and CEO of Alliance Business Solution, “a business concierge company,” and a Certified SBA Lender. Eddie Mohamed comes from a well diverse banking, finance, and risk management. Eddie’s career was spent serving the business market.

Eddie has built a large network of funding sources over the years that include banking institutions, private lending institutions, private equity, private investors, and hard money lenders, creating an echo system for his clientele in effort to serve as a conduit for gaining access to urgently needed capital that otherwise would not have been attained through traditional bank financing means.

Alliance Business Solution is a Business Concierge company built around the premises of helping companies build a successful and recession-proof business. Our key objective when engaging a new client relationship is to assist with capital readiness, putting them in a position to meet challenges and opportunities head-on with confidence and optimism.

After accomplishing this task, we then seek to help our clients identify key areas of risk exposure, vulnerability, and potential cost savings, then address them with long term sustainable solutions. Our goal for each client is to build long term relationships and set them up for success. We look forward to working with you and becoming your business advocate for life

Marthe (Matha) Lawrence, B.S., R.N. is a dedicated healthcare professional with over 20 years of experience and a strong background in Senior Living Management. For the past 10 years, she has served as an Executive Director for both newly developed and well-established senior living communities, bringing excellence, compassion, and leadership to each role.

Married for 16 years and a proud mother of four wonderful daughters, Marthe embraces both her calling at home and her impact in the world. She delights in writing the Bible by hand daily—in multiple translations in the four languages she speaks—blending spiritual discipline with linguistic passion.

Marthe finds joy in family time, writing, teaching, walking, doing Pilates, and serving as the heart and Chief of her household. She is passionate about cultivating environments where people can thrive and is deeply committed to helping others walk in their God-given potential.

An aspiring writer, entrepreneur, strategic planner, and innovator, Marthe also walks boldly in her spiritual calling as the Lord’s prophetess. She is a woman of vision, faith, and action—always ready to collaborate, build, and pour into others.

Astrid Zayas is a multidisciplinary artist, certified art therapist, and expert in emotional expression through creative practices. Her mission is to make every participant feel seen, valued, and creatively alive. With a background in fiber arts, psychoanalysis, and senior engagement, Astrid brings warmth, depth, and joyful guidance to every class.

Email: [email protected]

Shayla N. Waldon, Esq. is the Founder and Managing Attorney of The Waldon Law Firm, PLLC, where she represents businesses across the country in employment and business law matters.

A magna cum laude graduate of the University of Miami School of Law and a former BigLaw attorney, Shayla brings a practical, human-centered approach to helping clients navigate issues like workplace discrimination, ADA compliance, and multi-state employment policies. She is a frequent speaker, published author, and was named a Super Lawyers® Rising Star in 2024 and 2025. Shayla also serves on the boards of Florida Legal Services and the Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County.

Shellie Young, owner of MAC Media Services and founder of Legacy Studio Media, brings over a decade of marketing expertise to the senior care industry. With more than six years dedicated specifically to marketing for nursing homes and assisted living facilities, Shellie has a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities these facilities face. Her innovative approach combines strategic insight, creative content, and a passion for helping organizations build meaningful connections with their communities.

As a leader in the field, Shellie is committed to equipping facilities with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in today's digital landscape. Her expertise makes her a trusted resource for those looking to enhance their brand, recruit quality staff, and engage effectively with their audience.

Presentation Topic: Navigating Social Media and AI in Today's Assisted Living Facility

Known as The Soulful Creatrix, Dr. Asia Taylor is a renowned intuitive energy and sound healer, spiritual guide, and psychology empath. With a deep commitment to personal growth and spiritual awakening, she offers transformative services such as Intuitive Spiritual Coaching, Divine Path Consultation, energy and sound healing sessions, and Crystal Bowl Sound Baths.

Asia uses her gifts of energy healing in her work as a Death Doula, providing compassionate support and guidance through life's transitions. Discover more about her work HERE

Alexandra Silva Labarr is a dynamic international speaker, author, and business strategist known for her expertise in networking, leadership, and brand development. As the founder and CEO of Xandra Marketing & PR, she has spent over 25 years helping businesses amplify their presence through strategic content, digital marketing, and lead generation.

With a career spanning corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact, Alexandra has served on multiple boards and is the 2025 President of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Fort Lauderdale. She has been recognized for her leadership and dedication, earning awards such as the Loyalty and Leadership Award for her 15+ years of service to the organization.

Alexandra is also the author of The Power of Networking, a book that unpacks her signature Seven Essential Cs of Networking, helping professionals forge high-level connections and grow their influence. Her keynote, Dream Big, Take Action, has inspired audiences across industries to step out of their comfort zones, show up consistently, and take bold action toward their goals.

As a passionate connector and advocate for professional growth, Alexandra is committed to empowering individuals and businesses through collaboration, authenticity, and strategic networking.

Stephan Adelson is the new District Ombudsman Manager for Broward County, Florida Department of Elder Affairs. He is the former President of Adelson Consulting Services which provided technical support to federal and local entities in their use of web-based technologies for disease intervention, prevention, and health education.

Marline Paul is a Technology Integration Expert and creator of the transformative 3T Framework: Transform, Train, and Tool Up. With 17+ years bridging education and innovation, she helps organizations confidently navigate the AI revolution while maintaining their authentic voice.

As founder of Enilram Creative Solutions, Marline has guided 1,600+ entrepreneurs through the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center's programs and now leads the 3T Leaders Community, providing strategic technology implementation guidance nationwide.

A dynamic speaker at University of Central Florida on "Digital Marketing & AI" and the SCORE Broward Expo, Marline brings a unique perspective as a certified business coach and graduate of the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women: Black in Business program.

Her woman-owned, military spouse-owned business specializes in ethical AI implementation for universities, government contractors, and organizations seeking to move from technology confusion to confidence.

Brian Bursa is a founder and administrative partner of Ullman Bursa Law. Mr. Bursa’s practice includes the defense of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, as well as guardianship law.

Mr. Bursa also serves as outside general counsel to small and medium size nursing homes and assisted living companies. Mr. Bursa is a frequent speaker at client forums and association conferences on a variety of topics.

Mr. Bursa is a member of the Florida Bar (past member of the Executive Council, Practice Management Section); Florida Assisted Living Association (board of directors); Florida Health Care Association (past member of board of directors, past chairman of associate member support committee, conference committee, preferred business associate); Leading Age Florida (business council); Florida Senior Living Association; Florida Society for Healthcare Risk Management & Patient Safety (conference committee); and Defense Research Institute.

Mr. Bursa has served as legislative counsel for the Florida Health Care Association, wherein he assists with the drafting of tort reform legislation for the benefit of operators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Mr. Bursa has testified before multiple house and senate committees of the Florida Legislature on behalf of the long term care profession. Mr. Bursa maintains a rating of AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, which is based upon the opinions of judges and attorneys in Florida.

Kirsten Ullman is the founder and managing partner of Ullman Bursa Law. Ms. Ullman is a trial attorney with a diverse background of experience.

During the past decades, she has dedicated her practice to professional liability defense, with strong emphasis in the defense of long term care nursing homes and assisted living communities, physicians, hospitals, home health agencies, nurses, and pharmacists, and has been designated Long Term Care Litigation National Counsel by two major insurance carriers.

Ms. Ullman has successfully tried cases in Florida, New Jersey, Ohio, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Kentucky and has handled cases as regional counsel in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

Ms. Ullman is dedicated to telling the story of the amazing caregivers and the impact they have on their residents, and the families of the residents for whom they make a difference every day.

Kat Verdi is the founder of Verdi Consulting, LLC. She is a Caregiver Coach specializing in Senior Living Healthcare Relocation Transition & Dementia Care Consulting.

Kat has over a decade of experience in geriatric healthcare. Kat is a proud Ally and has been coaching and guiding families in “healthcare transition” including those affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Kat acknowledges and validates that caring for a loved one, weighing options that are known and unknown can be stressful for families. Kat works directly with families and coaches them through every step of the journey making them well informed caregivers. Kat shares her professional tenure which covers every aspect of senior healthcare and how dramatically the landscape of Aging in America has changed.

Kat’s coaching mission are the “3E’s” - to Educate, Empower and Encourage families to become the best advocates for their loved ones. Kat shares her family's personal journey and discusses the great difference between being a caregiver to a loved one, versus being a caregiver to a spouse. Two very distinct roles with a plethora of emotions for all parties involved.

Kat has a sincere way of engaging in an unmuted, respectful, judgment free dialogue with people and bridging the realities of caregiving and her firm belief in Self Preservation, Self Care and Self Love. All of which are essential and instrumental in staying healthy as caregivers.

Kat is known for her CAREGIVER 101 Workshops where she discusses how in a blink of an eye without notice life can change and by default anyone can become a caregiver. She walks her audience through the “must knows and must haves” every caregiver should be versed in. She has a keen eye on always approaching families with empathy and dignity.

Roberto Carabetta is a seasoned commercial real estate investor, syndicator, and operator specializing in multifamily and senior living assets.

As the founder behind Blue Shores Capital, he has successfully built a portfolio spanning 500+ units across Texas, Arizona, North Carolina, South Carolina, Wisconsin, and Toronto, Canada, with $25M in assets under management (AUM), and is set to increase his AUM with the additional 170 units he currently has under contract.

With two decades of experience in the construction and real estate industries, Roberto’s expertise encompasses property and asset management, market analysis, capex budgeting, and underwriting. His career began in the banking sector as a Financial Advisor for one of Canada’s top six banks, where he gained deep insights into lending and investment strategies.
This financial acumen, combined with his hands-on operational knowledge, allows him to identify and execute high-yield investment opportunities.

Currently, Roberto is expanding his focus on the senior living sector, capitalizing on the increasing demand for high-quality, community-focused care facilities. By leveraging AI and innovative operational efficiencies, he aims to enhance investor returns while improving resident experiences.

His leadership, strategic vision, and ability to cultivate strong partnerships make him a trusted name in the industry. Whether navigating complex acquisitions or scaling portfolios, Roberto remains committed to delivering sustainable growth and long-term value for investors.

Reneika Lightbourne, MBA and award-winning author is recognized as a self-directed IRA expert, a business development professional at Advanta IRA, and a recipient of the esteemed Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP) designation from the American Bankers Association.

Reneika started investing in alternative assets in 2014 and quickly realized the upside of this investment class. In 2017, she implemented self-directed IRA investing and became an Advanta IRA client. She wholeheartedly believes every American should take control of their retirement funds with a self-directed IRA, so she joined the Advanta IRA team to share her passion for a diversified portfolio.

As a dedicated financial services professional, Reneika educates clients on tax-sheltered techniques to help them have creative control over investment opportunities to secure a better retirement. Reneika is respected for her proficient approach and unwavering commitment to empowering others. As a thought leader and author of "The Power of a Self-Directed IRA,” a guide to unlocking financial freedom, Reneika provides invaluable insights into diversifying investments and building retirement wealth.

As a trainer and speaker, Reneika works with financial advisors, CPAs, and real estate professionals on the rules that govern SDIRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans.

Websites: Powerofsdira, Advanta IRA page

Valerie Lynn Borgman is the founder of Clear Path Senior Living Solutions and Host of the Desperately Seeking Senior Living Podcast. Before launching Clear Path in 2015, she spent five years working in senior living communities, gaining firsthand experience in the industry. Her consulting firm is dedicated to helping families navigate the often-overwhelming world of senior living with clarity and confidence.

Valerie draws inspiration from the thousands of families she’s helped, as well as her own experience—losing her father to Alcohol-Induced Dementia. She’s passionate about educating and guiding families, ensuring they feel informed and supported. Through her podcast, Desperately Seeking Senior Living, she interviews families and professionals, always keeping the focus on her listeners.

She also shares her expertise as a speaker, breaking down complex senior living topics into practical, actionable advice for families and caregivers.
Committed to the highest ethical standards, Valerie’s mission is to bring peace to an otherwise difficult time.

She strives to “clear the path,” helping families go from feeling desperate to realizing that solutions are doable. She’s currently working on making over 150 podcast episodes available on YouTube and creating an easy-to-use handbook of practical caregiving tips.

Dr. Erin Jacques is a professor, entrepreneur, and AI strategist who helps leaders and organizations use AI and research-backed strategies to grow their reach, deepen engagement, and operate with excellence.

With a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a doctorate from Columbia University, she brings deep expertise in data science, public health, and systems innovation to help leaders and organizations achieve lasting impact.

Carline Cadet Francois is a wife, mom of three, and Florida resident who is an accomplished Assisted Living Group Home Business Mentor and consultant. She helps busy professionals convert buildings into licensed Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs) and Licensed Group Homes. With hands-on experience as a former ALF administrator, Carline specializes in admissions, regulatory compliance, and ensuring facilities meet state standards, including submitting Comprehensive Emergency Management Plans (CEMP) and Emergency Environmental Control Plans (EECP).

As a bestselling author and dedicated coach, Carline empowers ALF and group home owners with tailored marketing strategies, one-on-one coaching, and community-building initiatives. Her passion lies in helping others grow their businesses, expand their impact, and confidently navigate challenges. With a foundation in faith, resilience, and personal perseverance, Carline’s work is grounded in helping others succeed while balancing her roles as a devoted wife and mom.

Denise Mutamba is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of MDM Legal, pllc. Ms. Mutamba practices in the areas of Landlord-Tenant, Estate Planning, Immigration, and Employment law. For a large part of her career, Ms. Mutamba provided counsel to landlords and tenants concerning their rights and responsibilities related to rental agreements, housing discrimination, eviction, emotional support animals,and security deposit withholding.

She earned her law degree from The University of Miami where she was a member of the Trial Team. She is admitted to practice in every court in the State of Florida, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, and the Supreme Court of the United States.

In 2016, she was recognized by the Daily Business Review for her outstanding trial skills. In 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, she was recognized by Florida Trend Magazine as a leader in her field. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, mentoring, and spending time with her family.