Fearless Stenographers Conference 2026 Agenda
JW Marriott Hotel, Washington, D.C.
April 16–18, 2026
1.45 CEUs/14.5 CE Hours
Pending NCRA and JBCC Approval
(All times are EST)
Thursday, April 16 – Welcome Day
All Day | Explore Washington, D.C.- Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the nation’s capital. Take this opportunity to tour Capitol Hill, visit the National Mall, or explore nearby landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian museums, and the Supreme Court. Whether you join a guided tour or venture out on your own, this day is designed to let attendees experience the city that shapes our nation’s laws and inspires our profession.
Location:
Superior Court of the District of Columbia
500 Indiana Ave NW
Washington, DC 20001
Description:
Join us on April 16, 2026, for a special group photoshoot at the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. This meaningful tradition brings us together to celebrate unity, legacy, and the collective impact of stenographers within the legal profession. We’re excited to return to where it all began and create new memories during the Fearless Stenographers Conference.
Dress Code: Professional Attire (Required)
All black attire only
No prints or colors
Business suits or professional dresses encouraged
No leggings, denim, or tennis shoes
Note: The courthouse is approximately five minutes away from the conference hotel. If you plan to walk, feel free to bring comfortable shoes, but please wear dress shoes for the photoshoot.
This tradition began at our very first networking event in Washington, D.C., and we are thrilled to bring it back once again.
Arrival Time:
Please arrive promptly at 3:30 p.m. We will conduct multiple group photoshoots by category, so timeliness is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Let’s come together, represent our profession with pride, and get ready to unite, celebrate, and have an unforgettable time at the Fearless Stenographers Conference
Meet our exhibitors, connect with colleagues, and kick off the conference in style!
Friday, April 17 – Fearless in Action
Zoom Attendance: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_r_l0r52oQZacqZ_KRa2yYQ
(No CEUs/CEs)
Instructors: Shaunise Day & Denee Vadell
Get ready to shake off the stress and bring out your inner kid! Steno Sports is a high-energy, movement-focused session designed to help stenographers boost wellness, reduce tension, and reconnect with joy, all through nostalgic favorites: hula hooping, jump rope, and double-dutch. This session blends fitness, fun, and community bonding. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rope-jumper, you’ll enjoy laughter, teamwork, friendly competition, and a refreshing break from long hours at the machine.
Join us for a lively experience that promotes physical health, mental clarity, and fearless confidence. Come ready to move, reconnect, and celebrate the lighter side of the steno lifestyle!
7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. | Continental Breakfast
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Lindsay Stoker, RDR, RMR, CRR, CRC, CA CSR
Most people still think the biggest warning sign of a dangerous relationship is “one really bad fight” or a history of assaults. But emerging work on intimate partner homicide points to something earlier and harder to see: patterns of coercive control — the slow, systematic erosion of a target’s freedom, reality, and voice.
As court reporters, we sit on the front lines of this problem. In depositions, hearings, and trials, we capture these dynamics verbatim, word for word, on the record.
In this session, realtime veteran and author Lindsay Stoker shares concepts from her forthcoming book, The Control Code®, a framework for spotting the leading indicators of coercive control that are also inside the transcripts we take every day. Using anonymized, composite excerpts, we’ll “run it through the filter” together and see how familiar questions, tones, and comments can reveal an underlying model of control long before there’s a headline or a restraining order.
We’ll also talk about how stenographers can recognize these patterns while staying firmly within our ethical lane — and how our community can come together to help reshape the conversation about abuse itself: from focusing only on what’s visible (incidents, injuries, “big moments”) to finally recognizing the control code that’s been running underneath the whole time.
9:00 a.m. – 9:05 a.m. | Transition Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Shaunise Day, Founder of Steno in the City
In this inspiring signature session, Steno in the City founder Shaunise Day shares the powerful journey behind one of the most influential movements in the stenographic profession. From its early beginnings to its nationwide impact, discover how Steno in the City has evolved over five years into a platform for empowerment, education, advocacy, and community unity.
Shaunise will take attendees behind the vision of why SITC was created, the challenges faced, the milestones achieved, and how the mission continues to expand for students, new professionals, officials, freelancers, captioners, and leaders across the industry.
This session highlights what it truly means to build a fearless, inclusive community and what a united profession can accomplish when everyone feels seen, valued, and supported.
Join Shaunise for a candid, motivational, and unforgettable conversation about resilience, leadership, and the future of stenography and walk away inspired to play your part in the movement.
10:05 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. | Morning Coffee Break
11:20 a.m. – 11:25 a.m. | Transition Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Heather J. Bautista, CSR (California, Texas, Oregon, & Washington)
In this session, Heather J. Bautista, CSR, and her team will share the methods they’ve used to become a well-oiled machine that makes rough drafts and expedited transcripts of the status quo. Their way of operating allows everyone to have free time to do what they want to do without being chained to their QWERTY keyboard.
12:25 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Lunch on Your Own
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Melinda Walker, CSR, RPR, CMRS
Step inside the halls of power with Melinda Walker, former Official Reporter for the U.S. House of Representatives, as she shares an extraordinary behind-the-scenes look at reporting on Capitol Hill. In this session, Melinda will reveal what it’s really like to capture the historical record during moments that shape our nation, the unique skillsets required for congressional reporting, and the professional lessons learned at the heart of American democracy.
Attendees will also explore life after the Hill, how the experience translates into new opportunities, leadership roles, and expanded professional purpose. Whether you’re a student, freelancer, captioner or official, this session offers rare insight into one of the most prestigious roles in stenography and the evolution that follows.
2:30 p.m. – 2:35 p.m. | Transition Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenters: David Hurtado, CA CSR; Cesar Hurtado, CA CSR; & Elsa Hurtado CA CSR, RPR, CVR-S
Siblings Elsa, Cesar, and David Hurtado share their unique journeys as court reporters working across official courts, freelance reporting, CART, captioning, and business ownership. In this engaging session, they discuss how family support, shared values, and individual drive shaped their careers—while each built a distinct path within the profession.
From high-profile trials to realtime services and entrepreneurship, the Hurtados offer insight into longevity, adaptability, and excellence in modern stenography. This session highlights how community, mentorship, and fearless commitment can turn a profession into a lasting legacy.
3:35 p.m. – 3:50 p.m. | Afternoon Coffee Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Amy Doman, RDR, CRR, CSR (CA/IL/TX/WA), CCR (MO), CSI
Looking to boost your writing to the next level, make your life easier, and enjoy the rewards of this fabulous profession a bit more? Daily practice is the secret sauce! In this seminar, you’ll hear recommendations for what to practice, how to practice, as well as why on earth anyone would practice outside of the time we spend working as full-time court reporters and students. If the fast talkers of the world have you feeling dejected, learn the game-changing effect setting and achieving goals can have on your career. Amy can’t wait to share the joy that “Becoming Devoted” to steno will bring!
4:50 p.m. – 4:55 p.m. | Transition Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenters: Bethany Woodward, RMR, CRR, CRC, CSR (CA/OR), CCR (WA), RVR-M-S
Jessica Borynack, CA CSR, RPR, CCG
What does it take to rise and excel as a stenographer in today’s evolving professional landscape? In this inspiring and educational session, industry leaders Jessica Borynack and Bethany Woodward break down the essential elements of next-generation success, certification, skill-building, discipline, adaptability, and community involvement.
Jessica shares her powerful journey from CART captioning and freelance reporting to becoming a new official within the U.S. Judiciary. She offers practical insight on balancing a demanding career while raising children, maintaining composure during emotionally heavy cases, preparing and refining your dictionary, building writing stamina, staying organized, and advocating for the record with confidence and professionalism.
Bethany brings her accelerated rise in the profession, completing school in 16 months, reporting over 1,000 depositions, and earning advanced certifications across three states. Her passion for mentoring students, contributing to the community, and striving for excellence provides clear guidance for those seeking to strengthen their skillset and expand their professional reach.
Together, Jessica and Bethany deliver actionable strategies, real-world perspective, and motivating encouragement for students, new professionals, and seasoned reporters looking to elevate their craft and step boldly into the future of stenography.
A sweet networking mixer for all registered attendees!
Saturday, April 18 – Evolving Fearlessly
Zoom Attendance: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AGyBo0cXS82kBwtYcOAgGg
(No CEUs/CEs)
Instructor: Bethany Woodward, RMR, CRR, CRC, CSR (CA/OR), CCR (WA), RVR-M-S
Yoga Flow is a rejuvenating session designed to help stenographers reset, recharge, and restore balance. Through gentle movement, mindful breathing, and intentional stretching, this yoga flow supports flexibility, posture, and stress relief, key elements for sustaining focus and endurance in our demanding profession. Perfect for all levels, this session encourages wellness, presence, and renewed energy both on and off the machine.
7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. | Continental Breakfast
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Tracy Thompson, RDR, RMR, RPR, CRR, CRC, CRI
The Importance of Realtime is a focused, practical session on why strong realtime skills matter more than ever in today’s legal and captioning environments. Realtime directly affects your credibility, earning potential, and career longevity—and this session breaks down what it truly takes to build dependable, high-quality realtime.
Attendees will explore what realtime is (and what it is not), who relies on it in the room, and how weak realtime quietly creates stress, delays, and lost confidence. The session emphasizes that excellent realtime doesn’t mean perfection—it means consistency, reliability, and preparation.
Designed for students and working reporters alike, this seminar offers encouragement, perspective, and a clear reminder that realtime success is not accidental. It’s deliberate.
9:00 a.m. – 9:05 a.m. | Transition Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Marcus Johnson, Managing Partner and Financial Planner
Stenographers capture history in real time but what about your own future story? This session explores the essential pillars of estate planning, retirement readiness, and comprehensive financial strategy. Attendees will learn how to protect their assets, prepare for life’s transitions, and build the foundation for long-term financial security. Whether you’re early in your career or approaching retirement, this session will help you create a plan that supports the legacy you’ve worked hard to build.
10:05 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. | Morning Coffee Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenter: Angela Grant, RDR, CRR, CRI, CSR
You work too hard for your money to sit still. It’s time to make your income work just as hard as you do.
Steno & Stocks: Easy Investing with the Power of AI is an energizing, beginner-friendly session designed specifically for court reporters who want to start investing without adding stress or complexity to their busy schedules. This session breaks down the stock market in a clear, approachable way and shows you how to recognize strong companies—without spending hours researching or feeling overwhelmed.
You’ll learn how the market works and how AI tools can simplify research and support smarter investing decisions—faster and with more clarity. No confusing language, no intimidation, just practical guidance, modern tools, and real-world strategies you can use right away.
Come ready to learn and explore, and leave with a smarter approach to money, a simple investing roadmap, and AI working for you so your money finally starts working as hard as you do.
Vendor Hall Break (40 minutes)
Brunch & Networking
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenters: Lisa Franco, CRR, RMR, Elsa Hurtado, CA CSR, RPR, CVR-S & Jennifer Sebring, CA CSR
Step behind the scenes of headline-making courtroom moments as stenographers Lisa Franko, Elsa Hurtado and Jennifer Sebring take center stage in some of the most high-profile trials that took place in 2025, including the P. Diddy and Cardi B cases. This engaging session offers an inside look at what it’s really like to create the official record when the spotlight is on, the stakes are high, and every word matters.
Attendees will hear firsthand how professional stenographers navigate intense media attention, fast-paced testimony, celebrity attorneys, and packed courtrooms while maintaining accuracy, composure, and ethical standards. From managing complex terminology and rapid exchanges to staying invisible yet indispensable, this session highlights the critical role stenographers play in preserving justice during culturally significant trials.
Whether you’re a student or seasoned reporter, Lights, Camera, Steno (A staple Fearless Stenographers Session) showcases how preparation, professionalism, and precision allow stenographers to rise confidently when the courtroom becomes a global stage.
2:30 p.m. – 2:35 p.m. | Transition Break
.15 CEUs/ 1.5 CE hour
Join this fast-paced, interactive session designed to spark meaningful connections within the court reporting and captioning community. Through roundtable discussions, reporters will rotate and engage with industry professionals, exchange insights, share experiences, and build valuable relationships. Whether you’re a student, new professional, or seasoned reporter, this session is all about collaboration, networking, and strengthening our steno community.
4:05 p.m. – 4:20 p.m. | Afternoon Coffee Break
.1 CEUs/ 1 CE hour
Presenters: Shaunise Day, Founder of Steno in the City, Nicole Bulldis, RPR, FCRR, & Kimberly Pruitt, RPR, CRR, CRC, CCR, CSR (CA/TX), FPR-C, B.A.
What does professionalism really look like behind the machine? In this candid and empowering session, Confessions of a Stenographer pull back the curtain on the real-world expectations, challenges, and standards that define excellence in today’s court reporting and captioning profession.
Through honest insight and lived experience, this session explores how professionalism shows up in preparation, communication, ethics, adaptability, and accountability—both inside and outside the courtroom. From navigating high-pressure environments and difficult personalities to maintaining composure, credibility, and confidence, attendees will gain a clear understanding of how professionalism directly impacts reputation, opportunity, and long-term success.
Designed for students, new professionals, and seasoned reporters alike, this session offers practical takeaways, relatable lessons, and a renewed commitment to elevating the profession through integrity, consistency, and excellence.
Theme: A Legacy in Motion: 5 Years of Steno in the City
An elegant celebration honoring excellence, legends, innovation, and the fearless spirit of our profession.