Keynote Speakers
Join fellow massage therapists for our keynote speakers who will uplift and empower you in your massage therapy career and life.
Opening Session & Business Meeting
Keynote Speaker: Jess Ekstrom
Making it Without Losing It: The New Rules for Innovation—and Motivation—That Lasts
Kick off Convention on Thursday morning with an energizing keynote from Jess Ekstrom—entrepreneur, bestselling author, founder, and unapologetic champion for possibility. Jess brings her signature blend of humor, heart, and real-world insight to remind you why your work matters and how to stay motivated in a profession where growth never stops. The bestselling author of Chasing the Bright Side and Create Your Bright Ideas, she has been featured on the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, Vanity Fair, Forbes, and People Magazine.
As the founder of the Mic Drop Workshop®, Jess is dedicated to helping women elevate their voices and turn their stories into impact as speakers and authors. Her uplifting session will spark fresh energy for your massage career and leave you inspired to create a brighter path forward.
Closing Session | 1 CE Credit
Keynote Speaker: Shawn Ellis
Choose Your Ending™ : How to Let Go, Level Up & Lead What’s Next
Close out Convention on Saturday with an unforgettable keynote from Shawn Ellis—leadership guide, motivational speaker, resilience strategist, and author. In this transformative session, Shawn will challenge you to rethink what you hold onto, what you release, and what possibilities are next. With his trademark blend of science, strategy, and storytelling, he’ll inspire you to rise above uncertainty, embrace change with confidence, and elevate your massage therapy career to new heights.
Shawn is the author of Mastering the Moments: A Journey of Endings, Beginnings and The Space in Between, and he was named one of the “Top Keynote Speakers to Help You Navigate Change.” Known as The Endings Expert, he teaches Radical Adaptability—a powerful approach to reframing your mindset during life’s transitions. Prepare to walk away energized, empowered, and ready for what comes next in life.
Closing Session | 1 CE Credit
Keynote Speaker: Shawn Ellis
Choose Your Ending™ : How to Let Go, Level Up & Lead What’s Next
Close out Convention on Saturday with an unforgettable keynote from Shawn Ellis—leadership guide, motivational speaker, resilience strategist, and author. In this transformative session, Shawn will challenge you to rethink what you hold onto, what you release, and what possibilities are next. With his trademark blend of science, strategy, and storytelling, he’ll inspire you to rise above uncertainty, embrace change with confidence, and elevate your massage therapy career to new heights.
Shawn is the author of Mastering the Moments: A Journey of Endings, Beginnings and The Space in Between, and he was named one of the “Top Keynote Speakers to Help You Navigate Change.” Known as The Endings Expert, he teaches Radical Adaptability—a powerful approach to reframing your mindset during life’s transitions. Prepare to walk away energized, empowered, and ready for what comes next in life.
Additional Resources
Education Sessions
Earn 15.5+ CE credits of the highest-quality education in the profession at the AMTA 2026 National Convention.
Schedule at a Glance
Get a full picture of the AMTA 2026 National Convention events and education sessions.
Hotel and Travel
Book your hotel and start planning your trip to Denver for the AMTA 2026 National Convention.