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WHEN Stories Premieres at Cre8tive Con Chicago 2026

  • Writer: Brainz Magazine
    Brainz Magazine
  • Jan 15
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jan 16

Chicago, IL  WHEN Stories™, a nationally recognized storytelling and visibility platform for entrepreneurs, will premiere at Cre8tive Con 2026 on February 22, 2026, at the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile. The live stage experience will take place during Cre8tive Con’s three-day conference, running February 20-22, 2026, which brings together entrepreneurs, creatives, and business leaders from across the country.


Blue armchair on a pale rug against a blue gradated background. Large, white "WHEN" letters stand nearby, creating a contemplative mood.

WHEN Stories is a professionally produced, TEDx-style stage experience where entrepreneurs share the pivotal moment the “when everything changed” that shaped their leadership, business, and purpose. Each story is captured live on stage and later amplified through multi-platform media, including video, podcast, and published works.


“WHEN Stories isn’t about performance or perfection it’s about truth, transformation, and impact,” said Wendy Babcock, founder of WHEN Stories and Executive Contributor for Brainz Magazine. “Cre8tive Con is the ideal environment for this experience because it attracts entrepreneurs who understand that visibility isn’t about being louder it’s about being real.”


The Chicago premiere will feature nine speakers from diverse industries and backgrounds, each sharing a deeply personal story of growth, resilience, and leadership. The 2026 WHEN Stories speakers include:


  • Chris Cushing

  • Cynthia McKnight

  • Donna Smith Bellinger

  • Jen “Bee” Blancho

  • Jen Vertanen

  • Jim Plasky

  • Nancy Spano

  • Sara Deacon

  • Traycee Mayer

Cre8tive Con is known for blending education, inspiration, and real-world strategy for entrepreneurs at every stage of business. The addition of WHEN Stories brings a powerful storytelling component to the event, highlighting how personal narrative can drive connection, credibility, and long-term brand impact.


Tickets for Cre8tive Con 2026 are now on sale.


*Attendees can receive $50 off their ticket purchase using the discount code Wendy50 at checkout.


About WHEN Stories


WHEN Stories™ is a live storytelling and visibility platform where entrepreneurs share the moment everything changed. Through professionally produced stage events, media amplification, and strategic coaching, WHEN Stories helps leaders turn personal transformation into powerful visibility assets that build trust, authority, and impact. Founded by Wendy Babcock, the platform has featured speakers from across the U.S. and internationally.


Media contact


Wendy Babcock Founder, WHEN Stories™ Executive Contributor, BRAINZ Magazine Email: voices@whenstories.com



This article is published in collaboration with Brainz Magazine’s network of global experts, carefully selected to share real, valuable insights.

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