Schedule at a Glance
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 / 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
8:30 a.m. — Doors open. Coffee, breakfast and networking
9:15 a.m. — Creative Kickoff & Welcome
10 a.m. — Keynote Fireside Chat on Main Stage
11:00 a.m. — Coffee Break
11:15 a.m. — Panel Discussion on Main Stage
12:15 p.m. — GoodEats Lunch hosted by Verde with networking and a resource rodeo
1:30 p.m. — Breakout workshops at nearby venues (pick from 2 options)
2:45 p.m. — Breakout workshops at nearby venues (pick from 2 options)
4:00 p.m. — GoodDrinks Happy Hour hosted at Sharehouse
2026 SUMMIT SCHEDULE:
- Click through the expandable menu below to read descriptions and meet the speakers for each session.
February 18, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Get checked in, grab your and agenda and then join us for coffee + breakfast in the Charleston Music Hall.
Coffee provided by Highflautin Coffee Roasters.
Opening remarks and special creative kickoff performance
The Soapbox: From Soap-making to Peacemaking – All One!
It’s hard to name a more purpose-forward brand than Dr. Bronner’s. From the very beginning, the company sought to be profitable in order to do good in the world, and under a microscope, every aspect of the company holds up under scrutiny. From sourcing and packaging, to employee policies, to public advocacy, Dr. Bronner’s sets a high bar and walks the talk.
Lowcountry Local First is thrilled to welcome Les Szabo, Chief Strategy & Impact Officer for Dr. Bronner’s to the main stage for the 2026 Good Business Summit. Les has been a force behind The Purpose Pledge, a groundbreaking initiative that redefines how business is conducted by fostering a community dedicated to sustainable progress. With visionary leadership and a well-structured, actionable plan—one that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and real results over rhetoric—it sets a new standard for responsible business.
Les will be joined by Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging, to explore what it means to build a company with purpose and a larger social mission at its core.
Speakers:
Keynote: Les Szabo – Chief Strategy & Impact Officer, Dr. Bronner’s
Moderator: Wes Carter – President, Atlantic Packaging
Lunch provided by Verde, outside in Hutson Alley (to the right of Charleston Music Hall front steps)
1. Marketing Metrics that Move the Needle: Using Google Analytics to Drive Growth
Join Michael Gasser of Squeeze Marketing for an in-depth look at the metrics every business owner should be tracking to make informed marketing decisions. This session will demystify Google Analytics and other key tools, helping you understand which data points truly drive growth. Learn how to interpret your numbers, measure success, and turn insights into action.
Location: American Theatre, 446 King Street
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- Michael Gasser, Co-owner, Squeeze Marketing
2. Ground Game: Building Powerful Neighborhood Advocacy
Location: American Theatre, 446 King Street
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- Jordan Amaker, Director of Advocacy and Communications, Lowcountry Local First, Moderator
- Jamilla Harper, Chief Operations Officer, Metanoia
- Mimi Striplin, Founder, The Tiny Tassel
- Liz Rennie, Co-Owner, The Charleston Mattress
- The Art of Expansion: Growing Your Brand Beyond the Lowcountry
Location: The American Theater, 446 King Street
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- Tara Pate (moderator), Founder, Daysie Syrups
- Curry Hagerty, Co-Owner and CEO, HART Jewelry
- Nicholas Overstreet, Founder, Boysterous Couture
- Adam Fetch, Founder, Candlefish
2. Coming Soon!
Join us for happy hour across from the Charleston Music Hall at Sharehouse to connect with your fellow do-gooders.
* Sessions listed here are subject to change.