Fearless Stenographers Conference

Conference Agenda

April 11th– April 13th (Thursday- Saturday) Tentative Schedule 

Thursday - April 11th

Test your writing skills by competing in the “Speed in the City” and Realtime skills tests. The contests are open to all working professionals. Students are not allowed at this time.

The first contest, the “Speed in the City” tests, will consist of three five-minute legs: 280 wpm Q&A, 260 wpm Jury Charge, and a 220 wpm Literary. The second contest will be the Realtime test, which will consist of one five-minute leg, a 240 wpm Q&A.

 

Tim Falk, Remotely, LLC – .15 CEUs

How do I know when it’s time to replace my laptop and what should I consider when picking out my new device?  Is there anything I can do to keep my laptop in tip-top shape to prolong its life and ensure it stays fast and responsive?  CPU speed, RAM, drive types, resolution – do your eyes start to glaze over?  What do these terms mean exactly and what is their purpose in a laptop?  We will answer these questions and more as we go through the components of a laptop, one by one, clearly explaining their function and how they relate to your specific needs.  By understanding these factors and regularly assessing your laptop’s performance, you can make informed decisions about when to replace it and choose a new device that best aligns with your needs as a court reporter.  

Join your fellow stenographers, lawyers, judges, and legal professionals as we network and take a Verbatim Voyage on a private yacht and enjoy hors d’oeuvres, desserts, cocktails, good music and great company!!!  The yacht will be docked for the initial two hours, and will set sail around the Long Beach Shoreline Marina at 8:00 p.m. 

Friday - April 12th

7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. | Continental Breakfast

Moderator- Kerry Murphy, CA-CSR, RPR, 

Shacara Mapp, CSR-MI, RMR, CRR, FCRR;

Allison M. Hall, RDR, CRR, CSR

Shaunise Day, Founder of Steno in the City 

When your passion becomes your purpose, true leaders are formed. Shacara Mapp, current President of the Michigan Court Reporters Association; and Shaunise Day, Founder of Steno In the City and Confessions of a Stenographer Podcast, will tell us why it is essential for us all to advocate for the court reporting profession.  They will share their journeys as to how they both developed into the leaders they are, and how we each can become an effective leader in our own individual way. 

Cindy Bowden, RDR, CSR-CA, TX, NV 

Kathryn Sweeney, FAPR, RDR, CRR, CSR, LCR

Certifications in court reporting stand as indispensable pillars of professional competence and reliability.  In the intricate realm of legal proceedings, where accuracy and precision are paramount, a certified court reporter is not merely a practitioner, but a trusted guardian of the judicial record.  Through rigorous examinations and continuous education, the mastery of our stenographic skills are validated.  Cindy Bowden and Katherine Sweeney will further the conversation of why Certs Matter, always and forever.

Donna M. Urlaub, RMR, CRR

Are you a real trooper or trouper? Discussion and examples of “word crimes” that are committed every day (not everyday). Attendees will emerge armed with answers! Idioms and their origins – another part of the English language with some surprising and interesting backstories. 
 
 
 
 

10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. | BREAK

Keynote Speakers

Brandy Killingsworth-Ray, CSR-TX  

Regina DeMoville, CSR, CRC. CCG

Embark on a transformative journey in our Premiere seminar, where we will explore the profound concept of cultivating a fearless mindset. Fear, a natural emotion, holds the dual power to safeguard and impede. When the latter takes center stage, it becomes a formidable barrier preventing us from realizing our true potential. As court reporters, masters of an
awe-inspiring skill, it is essential to confront fear, dismantle mental blocks, and ascend to new heights in both personal and professional growth.

Join us for this Premiere session featuring two distinguished stenographers, Captioner, Regina DeMoville, CSR, CRC, CCG, and Retired Official Brandi Killingsworth-Ray, CSR-TX. Through their compelling narratives, they will share personal challenges faced while navigating trepidation and apprehension, providing valuable insights into the journey of overcoming fear. We will delve into the heart of fear, unravel its grip, and reveal the power of a fearless mindset.

Desiree Cook, CSR-CA

Join us for an electrifying session featuring Desiree Cook, TikTok sensation who has seamlessly blended her passion for court reporting with the dynamic world of social media.  Discover the way in which she has harnessed the power of TikTok to connect with diverse audiences making court reporting accessible, engaging and relatable.  With over 1.5 million views and counting, don’t miss out on Desiree Cook’s journey at the intersection of court reporting and viral social media success.  

Jennifer Crisologo, PPC, CPFA

Get ready to transform your financial future as we delve into the essential strategies for maximizing cash flow and securing a robust retirement plan.  Join Jennifer Crisologo in this informative session tailored specifically for court reporters.  In the realm of retirement planning, learn about the power of 401(k) options and explore the benefits of pension plans.  And that is not all- Jennifer will also discuss the importance of medical insurance for freelancers.  Understand options available, and gain valuable insight into crafting a comprehensive insurance plan that safe-guards your well-being.

3:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m | Break

Anissa R. Nierenberger, RPR, CRR, CRC, CRI, B.S. Realtime Reporting 

While realtime does not mean perfection, how do you know if your realtime is a sellable product?  We will examine real-world examples of the good, great, and just okay.  Just because you can read through it, doesn’t mean that your clients can.  Anissa 

5:15 p.m. -6:00pm | Mingle with the vendors

Let’s unite and come together over cupcakes and cocktails for the court reporting and legal community at our annual Steno United Reception! 

Saturday - April 13th

Sue Terry, FAPR, RPR, CRR, CRC and Mary Pierce, CSR-CA

AI Crash Course:  From novice to expert in 90 minutes.  This will be a highly interactive and fun seminar.  Mary Pierce, CSR, and Sue Terry, FAPR, RPR, CRR, CRC, DSA, will walk you through the important distinctions in AI/ASR technologies impacting your profession to make you better equipped to advocate and educate your audiences.  There will be a test, but it will be fun!

Allison Ailer, Esq. – Assistant General Attorney

Brett York, Esq

Prepare for an insightful and entertaining session as two seasoned attorneys share their perspectives on what makes a court reporter truly exceptional.  In this unique opportunity, attendees will gain valuable insights into the DOs and DON’Ts in court reporting, straight from the eyes of the legal professionals who depend on your expertise in depositions, arbitrations, and trial settings.  Be prepared for both laughter and reflection as the attorneys share amusing anecdotes, including outrageous stories that will tickle your funny bone, as well as moments that shed light on the importance of precision and professionalism in your role.  We will share our experiences of working with court reporters who have totally saved the day and some reporters who have also ruined the day.  Rest assured, all stories will be shared without revealing any names, creating a lighthearted yet informative atmosphere.

10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. | Break

Judy Bundy-Bellinger, RPR, CRR, CSR-TX and 

Nicole Rubia-Bulldis, RPR, FCRR

Embark on a journey to reclaim professionalism in the era of tech and remote work.  Join us in this insightful session that underscores the importance of first impressions, especially in environments where casual dress has become the norm.  As we transition back into the conference rooms and courtrooms, it is time to elevate our standards and present ourselves with a renewed sense of professionalism.

Jessie Waack-Gorry, RDR, CRR, NYACR, NYRCR, CCRR, CSR-TX, CCR-NJ, CCR-WA, CSR-CA

Imagine having 25 hours in a day to accomplish everything on your to-do list.  Join us as Jessie Waack-Gorry, RDR, CRR, unveils user-friendly hacks designed to maximize your workload and production by leveraging the latest tools and resources to streamline tasks.  In the ever-evolving landscape of applied science, staying informed about the most current technology and tools for court reporters is just as integral to our job as is taking down the record.  Get ready for a fusion of ingenious strategies and cutting-edge gizmos and gadgets that will not only make the journey efficient, but also enjoyable!

Moderator, Kensie Benoit, TX-CSR

Desiree Cook, CSR-CA; Cheryl Haab-Scott, CSR, RDR, CRR, CCRR;

Lindsay Stoker, RMR, CRR, CRC, CA CSR

Discover how court reporters navigate high-stress environments while maintaining a harmonious balance between a lucrative career, personal wellness, and family life. Hear from seasoned professionals as they share strategies for mastering the art of juggling and learn effective social media tactics to connect with peers, showcase expertise, and recruit the next generation of court reporters. Join us for an engaging discussion on thriving in the challenging yet rewarding world of court reporting.

Andrea Ignacio, CSR, RPR, CRR, CCRR, CLR and

Jennifer Billstein-Miller, RMR, CRR, CCR-NJ

 

While full-day depositions and intense trials offer substantial opportunities for financial gain, the key to doubling your income lies in mastering additional skills and providing value-added services to your clients.  Learn the art of upselling, a powerful technique that involves offering clients additional services beyond the standard transcript.  Perfecting your court reporting skills is just the beginning; this session will guide you in soliciting additional services such as rough drafts, expedites, and realtime.  Understand the unique advantages and demands of each service and discover how incorporating them into your repertoire can open new revenue streams.

4:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. | Break

Angela Grant, RDR, CRR, CSR-CA, TX-CSR

As a court stenographer, our days are often filled with demanding work that requires our full attention and skill. Finding the time and energy to navigate the stock market can seem like an overwhelming task.  This is where “Steno and Stocks:  Easy Investing for Busy Stenographers” comes in. This session is designed for stenographers who are curious about investing but feel overwhelmed by the complexity or time commitment it seems to require.  The focus will be on breaking down the process of investing into simple, manageable steps that can be integrated into your busy schedule.Join us in this session to learn how you can successfully venture into the world of investing without it taking over your life.  “Steno and Stocks” is about empowering you, the busy stenographer, with the knowledge and tools needed  to grow your finances in a way that fits your lifestyle.

You will earn 1.625 CEUs through NCRA and 16.25 hours of CE hours approved through JBCC or your state association (pending approval).