If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to attend the Creative Educator Conference, here’s the real story: it’s part education, part reunion, part dance party—and completely transformational.
This year marked the third annual Creative Educator Conference, hosted by Laylee Emadi, and it delivered in every way imaginable. As Laylee’s podcast producer and long-time collaborator, I (Haylee Gaffin!) had the honor of guest hosting a special post-conference episode to unpack the event—and spoiler alert: it was equal parts emotional and electric.
Let’s walk through the standout moments from 2025 and why next year’s event should already be on your calendar.
A Space That Feels Like Home (But Better)
The 2025 Creative Educator Conference brought together over 100 creative entrepreneurs, speakers, and educators for three days of intentional connection, transformative education, and seriously good vibes.
Laylee described it best: “I get a little blue after it ends… because the people in that room are just that special.”
The schedule was thoughtfully structured with plenty of space for both guided networking and organic conversations—because Laylee knows that magic doesn’t always happen on stage. Sometimes, it’s in the hotel lobby at midnight or over a plate of steak fajitas.
Hannah McGinty came to the 2024 conference with “zero brain cells dedicated to being an educator.” Now she has her own course, successful workshops, and a growing student base. That’s the kind of before-and-after this event sparks.
Meaningful Touches—From Merch to Movement
What’s a conference without good swag? Actually, don’t call it that. As one attendee put it, “This isn’t swag. This is intentional gifting.”
This year’s personalized items included a hand-selected evil eye bracelet in honor of Persian New Year and Laylee’s heritage, plus a lens cloth designed by Sarah Ann Design featuring spring-inspired artwork and nods to Iranian culture. These weren’t just goodies—they were pieces of Laylee’s story, gifted with care.
Practice Makes Perfect—The Power of Lightning Talks
One of the most impactful elements of the conference is the Lightning Talks—five-minute speaking slots where aspiring educators get coached, filmed, and supported in real time.
Past participant Angelica Poe shared:
“That lightning talk changed my business. Between January and April of this year alone, I’ve had 10 paid or sponsored speaking gigs—all because I had professional footage from Laylee’s stage.”
The Lounge Effect: Community That Lasts All Year
This was the first year that many attendees walked in already knowing each other through Laylee’s membership, the Educators Lounge. And it showed.
Attendee Geily Romero shared, “Being part of the Educators Lounge before the conference helped me walk in with confidence and connection. It felt like I already had real-life friends waiting for me. I’ve never felt so welcomed and supported at an event.”
The lounge has become the “room before the room,” giving members a chance to connect, collaborate, and show up with confidence once they arrive at the event in person. It’s not just a bonus—it’s part of the experience now.
Lobby Chats: Where the Magic Happens
Picture this: it’s nearly midnight, and a group of educators are sitting in the hotel lobby, shoes off, laughing about their kids, brainstorming business ideas, and somehow—amid the chaos—launching their next podcast or offer.
That’s lobby chat.
This tradition has become a core part of the Creative Educator Conference experience. It’s where surface-level conversation fades and real connection begins.
What’s Next for 2026?
While Laylee didn’t spill all the details for next year, here’s what we know:
The venue and hotel are staying the same (because everyone loved them!)
The speaker lineup will be refreshed (no repeats for more than two years)
The vibes will be as strong as ever
Oh—and half the tickets are already gone.
Thinking About Attending?
Here’s what Laylee wants you to know:
She’ll never tell you to come if it’s not the right fit
You can talk to past attendees—they’ll give it to you straight
If you’re thinking about it… don’t wait.
“I have made more connections in the conference in three hours than I have made in three years online.” — Geily Romero
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