Speaker Bios

Tyler Schipper

Dr. Tyler Schipper is an associate professor of economics at the University of St. Thomas. He is a macroeconomist who specializes in growth and development. His primary research focuses are the role of real-time data in macroeconomic forecasting and the macroeconomic implications of informality in developing countries. He has published his research in academic journals such as the Journal of Development Economics, Review of Development Economics, and Economics Bulletin. Beyond his academic work, Dr. Schipper is known for his dynamic engagement with the wider community. He shares his insights on economic indicators, the Federal Reserve, inflation, and other crucial economic topics with business and civic groups through talks and presentations. His ability to convey complex economic concepts in an accessible and engaging manner has made him a popular choice for news commentary, including regular appearances on KARE 11’s Breaking the News and Minnesota Live. His commentary for WalletHub has been syndicated and appears widely in publications, including Newsweek.

MacKenzie Hertz

MacKenzie Hertz is an attorney of the Vogel Law Firm, who focuses her practice on employment law and litigation. MacKenzie advises employers on a variety of federal and state employment issues involving past and present employees. She defends employers in both administrative and litigation proceedings. MacKenzie is a qualified neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice, and she provides neutral internal investigations. Before joining the firm, MacKenzie served as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Ralph R. Erickson for the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and the Honorable Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. for the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska. She is originally from Mott, North Dakota.

Vincent Walden

Vincent Walden is CEO of Kona AI, a global, AI-driven technology company focused on anti-fraud, anti-corruption and compliance risks. He specializes in forensic data analytics, continuous controls monitoring, information governance and legal discovery services. With over 25 years of professional anti-fraud and forensic technology experience, his primary area of focus is in providing leading technology innovations on both proactive compliance programs and reactive investigations. . As part of COSO’s Anti-Fraud Task Force, Mr. Walden co-authored its Fraud Risk Management Guide, which was released in September 2016 and was also part of the 2023 update. He also teaches Compliance Innovation as an Adjunct Professor at Fordham Law School in New York. 

Michael Fink

With over a decade of experience in the dynamic world of technology and cyber security, Michael Fink stands as a beacon of knowledge and expertise. At Silicon Plains, Michael crafts defense strategies that serve as the foundational pillars of cyber security. His forward-thinking approach, combined with his vast experience, makes him a sought-after voice in the realm of digital protection. As a speaker, Michael brings a wealth of knowledge, insights, and real-world experiences, ensuring that his audience not only understands the importance of cyber security but also the practical steps to achieve it.

Jim Lindell

Jim Lindell is President of Thorsten Consulting, which is a Wisconsin-based strategic and financial consulting provider.  The firm offers professional speaking, training, and executive coaching. He has extensive senior management experience, including Chief Financial Officer, VP-Finance, Corporate Controller, and Corporate Assistant Controller. Industries served include manufacturing, healthcare, not-for-profit, distribution, and food processing. Jim has participated in more than 50 M&A projects. Jim is a CPA with public accounting experience at several local and regional accounting firms and has received the Certified Speaking Professional designation, the highest earned designation from the National Speakers Association.