B&I Speaker Biographies
Heather Polivka
Heather Polivka is the Founder & CEO of Awesome People Leaders, a decision intelligence and execution capability company focused on helping organizations close the gap between strategy and results. She brings more than 20 years of leadership and operating experience from Target Corporation and UnitedHealth Group, where she navigated growth, transformation, and organizational complexity at scale. Today, Heather’s work focuses on the human factors that drive business performance, including decision-making, communication, cross-functional coordination, leadership, and culture. She holds an MBA from Purdue University and is a frequent speaker on organizational perform.
Ruth King
Ruth King is a distinguished authority on profitability and wealth creation, an accomplished author and international speaker, and the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Financially Fit Business, LLC. Her achievements include establishing the Decatur, Georgia branch of the Small Business Development Center, founding the Women’s Entrepreneurial Center, and creating and leading the NASBA-sponsored course Understanding Financial Analysis Trends. She has taught established business owners through the SBA-affiliated Inner City Entrepreneur program, presented for leading corporations and professional associations, and appeared on national and regional television and radio programs. Ms. King holds an MBA in Finance, as well as bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering, and is the author of six award-winning business books.
Stephen Yoss, Jr.
Stephen M. Yoss, Jr., MS, CPA, is a visionary CPA and the entrepreneurial mind behind Devmatics, LLC. Starting his tech journey at age 10, Stephen quickly progressed to establish his own IT company at 13 and began crafting software by 15. He holds a dual degree in Accountancy and International Business from Loyola Marymount, complemented by an Masters of Science in Information Systems and Technology with a focus on Geographic Information Systems from Claremont Graduate University.
At the helm of Devmatics since 2017, Stephen specializes in developing tailored software solutions, mobile apps, and sophisticated automation systems to solve complex, critical challenges for a variety of clients. His innovative approach to technology was first applied at his family’s firm, Yoss & Allen, where he revolutionized their technological infrastructure.
As an authoritative speaker and prolific author, Stephen is a powerhouse in professional education, presenting at over 100 events annually and having authored more than 50 CPE courses. His sessions, packed with expertise and actionable insights, cover critical technology topics from cloud computing to preventing data breaches, artificial intelligence, automation, and empowering professionals across the globe.
Stephen’s expertise in the realm of pyrotechnics is equally impressive. As a licensed pyrotechnician, he’s contributed to some of the nation’s most memorable fireworks displays, including the Macy’s July 4th Spectacular and the Golden Gate Bridge’s 75th Anniversary celebrations, the annual Burning Man event, and many other shows around the country. His precision and creativity illuminate the sky, showcasing his dedication to this explosive art form.
When he’s not developing software, enlightening professionals, or lighting up the sky with fireworks, Stephen indulges in his passions for music, community service, and the great outdoors. His commitment to community and adventure is evident, whether he’s at Burning Man or volunteering in his hometown of Big Bear Lake, CA.
Randy Johnson
Randy Johnson serves as Senior Vice President of Support Services at Cordia, providing executive oversight for Human Resources, Marketing, Safety, Environmental, and Administrative functions. He has been a member of Cordia’s executive leadership team for the past four years, helping guide the organization’s strategic direction and operational excellence.
Randy brings more than 40 years of human resources and executive leadership experience across a diverse range of industries. His extensive background includes serving as Director of Human Resources for Eide Bailly from 2002 to 2006, where he played a key role in supporting organizational growth and talent development.
Based in Minnesota, Randy values family and community. He is the proud father of three adult children and grandfather of two granddaughters, with a third grandchild expected soon.
