AGENDA

WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2026

6:45 AM

Optional Nature Hike

Activities Barn

7:00 – 8:15 AM

Breakfast

Trailhead Lodge & Spa

8:30 – 9:45 AM

Session 5

Whither Capitalism? Thriving, Surviving, or Self-Destructing?

The Saddle Barn, The Farm

Speakers

William Cohan (moderator)

Veteran Wall Street Journalist, Bestselling Author, Founding Partner of Puck

Adam Posen

President of the Peterson Institute for International Economics

Luigi Zingales

The Robert C. McCormack Distinguished Service Professor of Entrepreneurship and Finance, University of Chicago Booth School of Business

Session 6

The Political Mix in ’26 – The Mid-Term Outlook and What it Could Mean for 2028

The Saddle Barn, The Farm

Speakers

Mark Halperin

Editor-in-chief of the 2WAY Video Platform and Host of “Next Up” on the Megyn Kelly Media Network

Bruce Mehlman

Founder, Mehlman Consulting

Peggy Noonan (Moderator)

Columnist for The Wall Street Journal and Contributor to NBC News and ABC News

Lunch + Session 7

The Future of Conservatism: A Discussion with VP Pence

Barrel Barn

Speaker

Mitch Daniels

Interim President of Purdue University, Senior Advisor to the Liberty Fund, and a Former Governor of Indiana

Mike Pence

48th Vice President of the United States

Afternoon Experiences

Activities Barn

6:00 PM

Session 8

A Conversation with Secretary Condoleezza Rice

The Saddle Barn, The Farm

Speakers

Mitch Daniels

Interim President of Purdue University, Senior Advisor to the Liberty Fund, and a Former Governor of Indiana

Condoleezza Rice

Political scientist and former United States Secretary of State

Finale Dinner

The Cheyenne Club, The Farm

Evening

Afterglow

Saloon

Vast-Creative_Hospitality-Branding-Agency_The-Summit-at-Brush-Creek-Ranch_Experiences_CTA

We Invite You

Afternoon Experiences

Join us at Brush Creek Ranch and immerse yourself in over 30,000 acres of pristine Wyoming wilderness.

William Cohan

Veteran Wall Street Journalist, Bestselling Author, Founding Partner of Puck

William D. Cohan, a former senior Wall Street M&A investment banker for 17 years at Lazard Frères & Co., Merrill Lynch and JP Morgan Chase, is the New York Times bestselling author of five non-fiction narratives: three about Wall Street: Money and Power: How Goldman Sachs Came to Rule the World; House of Cards: A Tale of Hubris and Wretched Excess on Wall Street; and, The Last Tycoons: The Secret History of Lazard Frères & Co., the winner of the 2007 FT/Goldman Sachs Business Book of the Year Award. His book, The Price of Silence, about the Duke lacrosse scandal was published in April 2014 and was also a New York Times bestseller.

His 2022 book Power Failure: The Rise and Fall of an American Icon, about the rise and fall of GE, once the world’s most powerful, valuable and important company, was published in November 2022 by Penguin Random House. It was long-listed for the 2022 FT Business Book of the Year Award. It was a New York Times bestseller and on the best book of the year lists published by The New Yorker, The Economist, The Financial Times and the Deal book section of the New York Times. His new book, Apollo Unbound, is about Leon Black and the Wall Street powerhouse, Apollo Global Management, and will be published in 2025.

He is also the author of Why Wall Street Matters, which was published by Random House in February 2017. His book, Four Friends, about what happened to four of his friends from Andover, his high school, was published by Flatiron Press, a division of Macmillan Publishers, in July 2019.

Cohan is also a founding partner of Puck, a digital publication owned and operated by journalists, and a writer-at-large for Air Mail. For 13 years, he was a special correspondent at Vanity Fair. He also writes, or has written, for ProP ublica, The Financial Times, The New York Times, Institutional Investor, Bloomberg Business Week, The Atlantic, Fast Company, The Nation, Fortune, Politico, Art News, and Barron’s. He previously wrote a bi-weekly opinion column for The New York Times, an opinion column for Bloomberg View, as well as for the Dealbook section of the New York Times.He appears on CNN, on MSNBC and the BBC-TV. He has also appeared three times as a guest on the Daily Show, with Jon Stewart, The News Hour, The Charlie Rose Show, The Tavis Smiley Show, and CBS This Morning as well as on numerous NPR, BBC and Bloomberg radio programs. He was formerly a contributing editor for Bloomberg TV and CNBC.

He is a graduate of Phillips Academy (Andover), Duke University, Columbia University School of Journalism and the Columbia University Graduate School of Business. He grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts and now lives in New York City with his wife and, more occasionally these days, his two sons.

Adam Posen

President of the Peterson Institute for International Economics

Adam S. Posen is President of the Peterson Institute for International Economics. He has contributed to research and public policy on G20 macroeconomic policies, inflation targeting and central bank independence, European economic integration since the euro, Japan’s recovery from its Great Recession, and recently a series of influential articles on the future of globalization amidst China-US conflict.

From 2009 to 2012, Posen served as an external voting member of the Bank of England’s rate-setting Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). He served seven terms on the Panel of Economic Advisors to the U.S. Congressional Budget Office. He is the recipient of the CBE medal for his service to British economic policy and of the Order of the Rising Sun with Gold Rays for his contributions to Japanese economic policy. He received his BA and PhD from Harvard University.

Luigi Zingales

The Robert C. McCormack Distinguished Service Professor of Entrepreneurship and Finance, University of Chicago Booth School of Business

Luigi Zingales is a Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and director of the Stigler Center. In 2014, he was President of the American Finance Association. According to SSRN, he is the seventh most-cited author in economics. His research on capitalism is summarized in two widely acclaimed books: Saving Capitalism from the Capitalists (2003, with Raghu Rajan) and A Capitalism for the People (2012). He also co-hosts the podcast Capitalisn’t.

Mark Halperin

Editor-in-chief of the 2WAY Video Platform and Host of “Next Up” on the Megyn Kelly Media Network

Mark Halperin, the editor-in-chief of the 2WAY video platform and the host of “Next Up” on the Megyn Kelly media network, has long been one of American political journalism’s top reporters, analysts, anchors, executives, digital pioneers, and innovators. Halperin is also the founder and editor of the Wide World of News Concierge Coverage, a premium, unbiased, members-only suite of services providing actionable political and policy insights beyond dumbed-down cable news chatter or social doom scrolling, giving members the inside track on what will happen next and why.

During his career, Halperin has been a reporter, analyst, host, and writer at ABC News, TIME magazine, Bloomberg News, NBC News, and Showtime. He is also the co-author of the #1 New York Times bestsellers “Game Change: Obama and the Clintons, McCain and Palin, and the Race of a Lifetime” (2010) and “Double Down: Game Change 2012” (2013), along with three other books.

Bruce Mehlman

Founder, Mehlman Consulting

Bruce Mehlman leads the bipartisan firm he founded after serving at senior levels in politics, policy and business. Mehlman Consulting helps Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups understand, anticipate and navigate the ever-evolving policy environment and trends likely to impact the global marketplace.

A highly sought-after public speaker, Mehlman frequently presents to Boards of Directors, global conferences and strategic planning sessions. His“Age of Disruption” Sunday Substack reaches tens of thousands of readers across business, government, NGOs and global investment firms each week.

Mehlman’s “famous” infographics on political trends are frequently covered in leading publications, including the Washington Post, Axios, Politico, CNN, Bloomberg, and Fox News. He has lectured on “winning business–government relations” at the Harvard Kennedy School, Yale School of Management and Georgetown University, among others.

Mehlman previously held the post of Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Technology Policy, having been nominated by President George W. Bush and confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2001. Before Commerce, he worked at Cisco Systems, the House of Representatives, and at a Washington law firm.

Mehlman is widely regarded as an expert in running issue campaigns, managing C-suite associations and developing strategies that achieve impactful policy outcomes. He also serves as Executive Director of the Technology CEO Council.

Peggy Noonan

Writer, author, and columnist for the Wall Street Journal

Peggy Noonan is a writer and author. She is a columnist for the Wall Street Journal, where her weekly column, Declarations, has run since 2000.

In 2017 she won the Pulitzer prize for distinguished commentary. She is also the author of nine books on American politics, history and culture, including the bestsellers “What I Saw at the Revolution,” “When Character Was King.” “John Paul the Great,” and “Simply Speaking.” She is one of ten historians and writers who contributed essays on the American presidency for the book, “Character Above All.” Noonan was a special assistant and speechwriter for president Ronald Reagan.

In 2010 she was given the Award for Media Excellence by the living recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor. She has been a fellow at Harvard University’s Institute of Politics, and has taught at Yale University.

Before entering the Reagan White House, Noonan was a producer and writer at CBS News in New York, and an adjunct professor of Journalism at New York University. She was born in Brooklyn, New York and grew up there, in Massapequa Park, Long Island, and in Rutherford, New Jersey. She is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University in Rutherford. She lives in New York City.

Mitch Daniels

Interim President of Purdue University, Senior Advisor to the Liberty Fund, and a Former Governor of Indiana

Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. served as a two-term governor of the state of Indiana from 2004 to 2012 and as the 12th president of Purdue University from 2013 to 2022, he is currently serving at Interim President of Purdue University. He also serves as a Distinguished Scholar and Senior Advisor at the Liberty Fund. He was elected governor in his first bid for any elected office, and then re-elected with more votes than any candidate in the state’s history.

At Purdue, Daniels prioritizes student affordability and reinvestment in the university’s strengths. He ended 36 straight years of rising prices by freezing tuition and mandatory fees at 2012 levels for all students. The freeze is still in place today. As a result, the total cost of attendance is lower today than in 2012, even without adjusting for inflation and aggregate student borrowing has declined 37%.

Prior to becoming governor, Daniels served as chief of staff to Senator Richard Lugar, senior advisor to President Ronald Reagan and Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President George W. Bush. He also was the CEO of the Hudson Institute and had an 11-year career as an executive at Eli Lilly and Company.

Daniels earned a bachelor’s degree from Princeton’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and a law degree from Georgetown. He is the author of three books and a contributing columnist in the Washington Post.

He and his wife Cheri have four daughters and eight grandchildren.

Mike Pence

48th Vice President of the United States

Mike Pence was born in Columbus, Indiana into a family that epitomized the American Dream, instilling in him values of hard work, faith, and family. After graduating from Hanover College and Indiana University School of Law, he embarked on a multifaceted career, including law practice, hosting a talk show, serving as a Congressman for six terms, and championing limited government and fiscal responsibility. Pence then was elected the 50th Governor of Indiana, focusing on tax cuts, job creation, education reform, and infrastructure investment while maintaining fiscal responsibility. His accomplishments in Indiana led to his selection as the 48th Vice President of the United States. Pence’s conservative philosophy, inspired by Ronald Reagan, led to his founding Advancing American Freedom which continues to advocate for faith, family, and liberty as foundational American values.

Condoleezza Rice

Political scientist and former United States Secretary of State

Condoleezza Rice is the Tad and Dianne Taube Director of the Hoover Institution, Senior Fellow on Public Policy, and Denning Professor in Global Business and the Economy at Stanford GSB. She is a founding partner of Rice, Hadley, Gates & Manuel LLC, an international strategic consulting firm.

Rice served as the 66th U.S. Secretary of State (2005–2009) — the second woman and first Black woman to hold the post — and as National Security Advisor (2001–2005), the first woman in that role. She was Stanford’s provost (1993–1999) and has been on its Political Science faculty since 1981, earning two of its highest teaching honors.

Earlier, she served on President George H.W. Bush’s NSC staff (1989–1991) as Director, then Senior Director, of Soviet and East European Affairs, and in 1986 as Special Assistant to the Director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Her books include To Build a Better World (2019), Democracy (2017), No Higher Honor (2011), Extraordinary, Ordinary People (2010), and Political Risk (2018), among others.

In 1991, she co-founded the Center for a New Generation, an after-school enrichment program that merged with the Boys & Girls Club of the Peninsula in 1996 and has since expanded nationally. She is currently Vice Chair of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Board of Governors and a trustee of the Aspen Institute. She also sits on the boards of C3.ai and Makena Capital Management.

In 2022, Rice became a part-owner of the Denver Broncos. She served on the College Football Playoff Selection Committee from 2013–2017.

Rice holds a B.A. (cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa) and Ph.D. in political science from the University of Denver, and an M.A. from the University of Notre Dame. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and holds over 15 honorary doctorates.

Thomas Fuchs

Senior Vice President and Chief AI Officer at Eli Lilly

Thomas J. Fuchs, Dr.sc., joined Eli Lilly and Company as its first chief AI officer on Oct. 21, 2024. In this role, Fuchs will provide vision, strategic direction and overall leadership of AI initiatives across Lilly, including drug discovery, clinical trials, manufacturing, commercial activities and internal functions. He will also identify, build and manage AI and machine learning solutions to help Lilly provide medicines to patients around the world.

Before joining Lilly, Fuchs was the dean and inaugural department chair for AI and Human Health at Mount Sinai, director of the Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Health at Mount Sinai, and the endowed Barbara T. Murphy professor for AI and computational pathology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

Prior, Fuchs held positions at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Institute of Technology, and founded three companies, including Paige AI. Fuchs holds a doctoral degree in machine learning from ETH Zurich and a master’s degree in technical mathematics from Graz Technical University in Austria.

Nela Richardson

Chief Economist and ESG Officer for ADP Inc.

Dr. Nela Richardson is chief economist and ESG officer for ADP Inc., where she leads ADP Research.

Richardson has delivered remarks at the World Economic Forum Annual Conference in Davos and the Federal Reserve’s Jackson Hole symposium. She’s a contributor to Bloomberg and American Public Media’s Marketplace and appears frequently on CNG and in The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. Her Main Street Macro column examines the effect of economic conditions on employers, workers, and households.

Richardson has held positions at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, and Freddie Mac.

Prior to joiningADP, she was a principal at Edward Jones. She previously served as chief economist at Redfin Corp. and as a senior economist at Bloomberg, L.P.

She was awarded a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Maryland, College Park. She earned her master’s in economics from the University of Pennsylvania and a bachelor’s from Indiana University in Bloomington.

Richardson is a member of the Stanford Digital Economy Lab Advisory Group, the National Academies committee on National Statistics, the World Economic Forum Global Futures Council, and the U.S. Monetary Policy Forum.

Mung Chiang

President of Purdue University and the Roscoe H. George Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Mung Chiang is the president of Purdue University and the Roscoe H. George Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Prior to being elected university president in 2022, he was the John A. Edwardson Dean of the College of Engineering and executive vice president for strategic initiatives at Purdue University.

Chiang received his BS (1999), MS (2000) and PhD (2003) from Stanford University and an Honorary Doctorate in Science (2024) from Dartmouth College. Before 2017, Chiang was the Arthur LeGrand Doty Professor of Electrical Engineering and an affiliated faculty member in computer science and in applied and computational mathematics at Princeton University.

He founded the Princeton EDGE Lab in 2009 and co-founded several startup companies and industry consortia since the early years of edge computing. Most of his 26 U.S. patents are licensed for network deployment. He co-authored two textbooks based on his massive open online courses: “Networked Life” (2012) and “Power of Networks” (2016). For his research in communication networks, wireless technology and network optimization, he received the National Science Foundation Alan T. Waterman Award (2013), as well as the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) Founders Medal (2025), the IEEE INFOCOM Achievement Award (2022), the IEEE Kiyo Tomiyasu Award (2012), and a Guggenheim Fellowship (2014). He was elected to the National Academy of Engineering and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, as well as the National Academy of Inventors and the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences.

In 2020, as the science and technology advisor to the U.S. secretary of state, he initiated tech diplomacy programs in the U.S. government. In 2024, he was appointed to the inaugural board of the congressionally chartered U.S. Foundation for Energy Security and Innovation, which he currently chairs, and was elected to the board of directors of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

Stu Jones

Former United States Ambassador to Iraq

Ambassador Stuart Jones joined the Middle East Institute (MEI) as its 18th president in January 2025. Stu came to MEI from Bechtel Corporation, a global engineering, construction, and project management firm, where he was a senior vice president and President for Regions and Corporate Affairs. He retired from Bechtel in 2024.

Prior to Bechtel, Stu served for three decades as a US Foreign Service Officer in the Department of State. His tours included US Ambassador to Iraq (2014-17), during the height of the ISIS crisis, and US Ambassador to Jordan (2011-14). Other foreign tours included Turkey, Egypt, El Salvador, and Colombia. He retired as the senior bureau officer (SBO) for the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, in 2017.

Hailing from Philadelphia, Stu is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Law School and Duke University. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the American Academy of Diplomacy. He resides with his wife, Barbara Jones, also a former Foreign Service Officer, in Falls Church, Virginia.

Toby Rice

President and Chief Executive Officer of EQT Corporation

Toby Z. Rice is the President and Chief Executive Officer of EQT Corporation, America’s leading integrated natural gas producer and a driving force in advancing the role of natural gas in the global energy landscape. He co-founded Rice Energy in 2007 and built it into a top-ten U.S. natural gas producer through disciplined capital allocation, operational innovation and strategic acreage development, culminating in its acquisition by EQT in 2017. In 2019, he took over as President and CEO of EQT.

Since becoming CEO of EQT in 2019, Rice has led a comprehensive transformation of the company, building one of the most efficient and technologically advanced operating platforms in the global natural gas industry. Under his leadership, EQT has reduced per-unit costs by approximately 30%, increased production by roughly 50%, and more than doubled profitability, while strengthening its balance sheet and free cash flow profile. He has overseen more than $20 billion in strategic acquisitions, including Chevron Appalachia, Alta Resources, Tug Hill, Equitrans Midstream and Olympus Energy, creating unmatched scale across upstream and midstream operations and positioning EQT as a premier integrated natural gas enterprise.

Rice is a committed champion of natural gas as a cornerstone of modern life and economic development. He has consistently advocated for expanding U.S. natural gas production and LNG exports as a pragmatic pathway to enhance global energy security, lower costs for consumers and accelerate emissions reductions by replacing higher-emitting coal around the world. He frequently engages policymakers, industry leaders and global audiences on the opportunity to materially reduce global carbon emissions through coal-to-gas switching, while maintaining energy reliability and affordability.

Under his leadership, EQT has driven measurable environmental performance improvements, achieving some of the lowest methane emission intensities in the industry and advancing toward net-zero operational targets through technology deployment, operational excellence and data-driven emissions management.

Deeply committed to addressing global energy poverty, Rice founded Energy Corps, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to modern energy for the billions of people who still lack reliable electricity and clean fuels. Energy Corps mobilizes industry expertise and partnerships to deliver scalable energy solutions that unlock economic opportunity, improve living standards and support human development.

Through operational excellence, disciplined growth and global advocacy, Rice continues to position EQT, and U.S. natural gas writ large, as critical drivers of economic prosperity, energy security and meaningful emissions reduction worldwide.

Maya McGuineas

President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget

Maya MacGuineas is the president of the bipartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. Her areas of expertise include budget, tax, and economic policy. As a leading budget expert and a political independent, she works closely with members of both parties and serves as a trusted resource on Capitol Hill. MacGuineas testifies regularly before Congress and has published broadly, including in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Financial Times, The Atlantic, and numerous other outlets. She also appears regularly as a commentator on television.

MacGuineas oversees a number of the Committee’s projects including FixUS, a project seeking to better understand the root causes of our nation’s growing divisions and deteriorating political system, and TEC, which focuses on technology, the economy, and capitalism.

Previously, MacGuineas worked at the Brookings Institution and on Wall Street, and in the spring of 2009 she did a stint on The Washington Post editorial board, covering economic and fiscal policy. MacGuineas serves on a number of nonprofit boards and is a native Washingtonian.

Erik Brynjolfsson

Professor and Senior Fellow for The Jerry Yang and Akiko Yamazaki at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI.

Prof. Erik Brynjolfsson is a professor and senior fellow for The Jerry Yang and Akiko Yamazaki at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI, and the Director of the Stanford Digital Economy Lab at the Institute for Human-Centered AI (HAI). He is also a Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) and holds appointments at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR), the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the Stanford Department of Economics. Prof. Brynjolfsson is one of most widely-cited researchers studying the digital economy and co-author of five books including “The Second Machine Age.”

Mike Rowe

CEO of mikeroweWORKS Foundation, and creator and host of “Dirty Jobs”

Mike Rowe is a writer, narrator, producer, recording artist, Emmy-Award winning TV Host, New York Times Best Selling author, and the CEO of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation. As the creator and host of the iconic TV series Dirty Jobs, Mike is best-known as “the dirtiest man on TV,” but his true calling is storytelling. From Somebody’s Gotta Do It to Returning the Favor, The Story Behind the Story, Six Degrees, and The Way I Heard It, Mike continues to tap the country on the shoulder and say, “These are people you should know.” In his role as a perpetual apprentice, Mike has highlighted hundreds of workers in dozens of essential industries. His foundation has awarded millions of dollars in work ethic scholarships, and his commitment to reinvigorate the skilled trades is unrivaled.

Mountain Arc Archery

Tucked high in the mountain wilderness of the Ranch, a world‑class archery course awaits. Crafted for adventurers seeking both precision and serenity. Set among whispering aspen groves and towering evergreens, this alpine course blends rugged Western character with refined luxury. Each shooting station is intentionally placed to embrace its natural surroundings, featuring elevated platforms, sculpted rock backdrops, and artfully integrated woodland clearings that turn every shot into a scenic moment. Guests receive private instruction from expert guides, with personalized coaching and custom bow fittings that ensure every archer whether novice or seasoned feels confident and capable.

Trail to Tranquility: Where the Whisper of Hoofbeats Meets the Harmony of Sound

Allow yourself to be carried into stillness on a journey where nature, movement, and melody intertwine. Trail to Tranquility begins with a gentle welcome from our wranglers, who guide you from the Activity Barn to the arena where your horse awaits, steady and intuitive, ready to share the calm strength only a horse can offer. You’ll set off on a 30 minute horseback ride, following a winding trail that slowly loosens the breath and settles the mind. The rhythm of hoofbeats becomes a grounding pulse, a reminder to be fully present with the land beneath you. Your path leads to the historic Schoolhouse, where you’ll dismount with ease and transition from motion to stillness. Within the Schoolhouse, a one hour sound healing session unfolds. Soothing tones and resonant vibrations echo the steadiness of your trail companion, inviting your body to release and your spirit to root deeply. It is a moment to settle, inhale, and let harmony ripple through you.

Peggy noonan

Writer, Wall Street Journal Columnist

For her work at the Wall Street Journal, Peggy has been award the Pulitzer prize. She is the author of ten books on American politics and culture.

Rob Kaplan

Vice Chairman, Goldman Sachs

Rob Kaplan is Vice Chairman of Goldman Sachs and a member of the Management Committee. Previously, Mr. Kaplan served as President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Before joning the Fed, he was the Martin Marshall Professor of Management Practice and Senior Associate Dean at Harvard Business School.

ERA DABLA-NORRIS

Deputy Director
Fiscal Affairs Department
International Monetary Fund

Era Dabla-Norris is Deputy Director in the Fiscal Affairs Department of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In this capacity, she leads the work on multilateral surveillance of fiscal issues, including the IMF’s flagship Fiscal Monitor, and the work on fiscal policy and AI.

DR. FRANCIS COLLINS

Physician, Geneticist, Former Director of the National Institutes of Health

Dr. Francis Collins is a physician and geneticist known for his landmark discoveries of disease genes, for leading the Human Genome Project, for his 12 years as Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and for championing the harmony of science and faith.

PETER H. DIAMANDIS, MD

Founder and Executive Chairman, XPRIZE Foundation

Recently named by Fortune as one of the “World’s 50 Greatest Leaders,” Diamandis launched $600 million in incentive competitions through XPRIZE focused on solving humanity’s grand challenges.

Kristin Forbes

Professor of Management and Global Economics, MIT Sloan School of Management

Kristin Forbes has regularly rotated between academia and senior policy positions. From 2014-2017 she was an External Member of the Monetary Policy Committee for the Bank of England.

Seema Verma

General Manager and Senior Vice Presidence, Oracle Life Sciences

A national health policy expert, Seema Verma was the longest-serving Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator in modern history.

Scott Gottlieb

MD, 23rd Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Scott Gottlieb, MD, is currently a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research and a partner at the venture capital firm New Enterprise Associates.

A bald eagle flying through Wyoming’s wild landscape

Wildlife Ecology Hike with Wyoming Naturalist

Wildlife Ecology Hike with Wyoming Naturalist at Brush Creek Ranch is an unforgettable adventure into the captivating ecosystems of the Ranch. Led by a Wyoming Native, an experienced naturalist and wildlife ecologist, this guided hike takes you through diverse landscapes, from rolling meadows to dense woodlands, providing a unique opportunity to explore the area’s rich biodiversity. Our Naturalists expertise and passion for the natural world will bring each aspect of the ecosystem to life, offering insights into the behaviors and habitats of local wildlife. Learn about animal tracks, plant species, and ecological relationships that define this thriving environment. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a curious explorer, this hike promises an engaging and educational experience that deepens your appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Wyoming’s wild landscapes.

Winemaker for a Day: Blending and Mixing Your Own Cépage

In partnership with Michael Kennedy, of Fraiche Wine Group, and our sommelier team, this immersive blending class invites guests to step into the role of winemaker. Guided by experts, you’ll taste and combine individual varietals to craft a custom, bespoke blend uniquely your own, gaining insight into balance, structure, and the art behind every great wine.

People experiencing the tradition of wagon driving

“The Art of the Team” Wagon Tour

“The Art of the Team” Wagon Tour offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the beauty of Brush Creek Ranch while leading our majestic Percheron draft horse team. Step into the role of a true teamster, learning the skill and precision required to guide these powerful horses through the Ranch’s breathtaking landscape. Under the guidance of experienced wranglers, you’ll discover the unique bond and teamwork needed between horse and handler to navigate the trails. As you drive the Percheron Wagon, take in the stunning views of rolling hills, meadows, and the iconic Wyoming wilderness. This hands-on adventure celebrates the elegance and strength of these remarkable horses while immersing you in the timeless tradition of wagon driving. Perfect for anyone seeking an authentic, unforgettable Ranch experience.

Napa Valley Mastery: An In-Depth Look at the Wines of Napa Valley

In partnership with Michael Kennedy, of Fraiche Wine Group, and our sommelier team, this Napa Valley Master Class offers a deep dive into one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions. Guests will taste a curated selection of Napa Valley wines exclusively sourced by Fraiche, exploring benchmark varietals, regional expression, and the craftsmanship that defines Napa Valley.

Wagyu Grilling & Essential Knife Skills

Join acclaimed Chef Ricky Biswas from Brush Creek Ranch for an exclusive culinary experience focusing on the art of Wagyu grilling and essential knife skills. Discover how to select, prepare, and grill premium Wagyu beef to perfection, enhancing its rich marbling and flavor. Chef Ricky will demonstrate expert knife techniques, including proper trimming, slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness, and ensuring precise, clean cuts. Learn to master two-zone grilling, achieving the perfect sear and desired doneness, while preserving the meat’s juicy texture. Enhance your culinary repertoire with guidance from a seasoned professional at this hands-on, immersive session.

BCR Founders Club “King or Queen of the Mile” Experience

BCR Founders Club “King or Queen of the Mile” Experience challenges you to master the art of precision shooting with a Barrett .50 Caliber Rifle. Test your skill and focus as you aim to hit a target one mile away, a feat reserved for only the most determined and accurate marksmen. Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll learn about long-range shooting techniques, ballistics, and the precision engineering of the powerful Barrett Rifle. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you line up your shot, and if you succeed, you’ll earn the prestigious title of “King or Queen of the Mile.” This exclusive experience is the ultimate test of patience, skill, and mastery, offering an unforgettable opportunity to push your limits and embrace the thrill of long-range marksmanship at Brush Creek Ranch.

Master Distiller Tour with Barrel Thieving

Master Distiller Tour with Barrel Thieving offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the art and craft of distillation. Join the master distiller on an immersive journey through the distillery, where you’ll learn about the intricate process of creating fine spirits from grain to glass. Discover the secrets behind barrel aging and gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and precision required to craft exceptional whiskey. The highlight of the tour is the rare opportunity to practice barrel thieving: sampling whiskey straight from the barrel using a traditional thief. Savor the rich, complex flavors and witness firsthand how the spirit evolves over time. This unique experience is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts and anyone curious about the artistry of distillation, providing an unforgettable taste of craftsmanship and tradition.

Driven Pheasant Hunt

Experience the thrill of a Driven Pheasant Hunt at Brush Creek Ranch, an extraordinary adventure that combines heritage, precision, and the beauty of the Wyoming landscape. This exclusive event offers participants the chance to engage in a traditional, high-adrenaline driven pheasant shoot, guided by expert marksmen and field professionals. Guests will handle and fire shotguns, renowned for their craftsmanship and accuracy, while being immersed in the traditions of upland hunting. Following the hunt, enjoy a celebratory gathering featuring fine dining, storytelling, and a true appreciation of sporting camaraderie.

Trailblazer Ride to Kennaday Peak

Trailblazer Ride to Kennaday Peak offers an exhilarating ATV adventure through rugged trails and breathtaking landscapes, leading you to the awe-inspiring summit of Kennaday Peak. Feel the thrill as you traverse winding paths, lush meadows, and rocky terrains, experiencing the untamed beauty of nature up close. At the peak, take in panoramic views that stretch across the horizon, creating unforgettable memories of adventure and exploration. Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, this ride promises an unforgettable journey to one of the most scenic destinations.

Western Heritage: Cattle Drive and Branding Experience

Western Heritage: Cattle Drive and Branding Experience invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Old West. Join seasoned ranchers on a thrilling cattle drive across sweeping plains, working alongside the team to herd livestock just as cowboys have done for generations. Feel the rhythm of the land as you ride on horseback, taking in the vast, untamed beauty of the countryside. The adventure continues with an authentic branding ceremony, where you’ll witness the art and significance of marking cattle, this is a tradition steeped in history and pride. This hands-on experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with the Western heritage, celebrating the spirit of the frontier and the legacy of ranching culture. Perfect for those seeking an unforgettable, authentic encounter with the heart of the West.

Joe Manchin

Senior United States Senator
from West Virginia

Joseph Manchin III served as a United States Senator for West Virginia from 2010 to 2025, bringing decades of leadership and a commitment to pragmatic, results-driven public service. Throughout his tenure, he was a key member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, where he served as Chair, as well as the Appropriations, Armed Services, and Veterans’ Affairs Committees. Prior to his time in the Senate, he served as the 34th Governor of West Virginia (2005-2010) and as West Virginia Secretary of State (2001-2005).

Jim Bullard

Former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

James “Jim” Bullard, Former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and one of the nation’s foremost economists and respected scholar-leaders, was chosen in July 2023 as the inaugural dean of the reimagined Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business at Purdue University.

Beth White

Chair, White Lodging

Beth White is Chair of White Lodging and has been a part of the company since 1985 alongside her husband and White Lodging Founder, Bruce White, who passed away in early 2023. Her emphasis on culture, decisive decision-making, the relentless pursuit of excellence and growth were key characteristics that she and Bruce both bring to White Lodging. Beth actively contributes to charitable organizations, serving on various boards, including the Boys and Girls Club of Chicago, University of Wyoming Haub School, and Big Shoulders Fund, while holding degrees from Purdue and Indiana University.

Jim McKelvey

Co-Founder, Block Inc., Founder, Invisibly

James M. McKelvey Jr. co-founded Block, Inc (formerly Square, Inc) in 2009. In 2016 and was appointed as an independent director of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis in January 2017. In 2022, he was appointed to chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. McKelvey also founded Invisibly, a company allowing consumers to profit from their online data in 2017.

Prior to founding Block, Inc, McKelvey attended Washington University in St. Louis, MO. After graduating college, Jim worked as a contractor for IBM while also working as a glassblowing instructor. During that time he also founded Disconcepts, a cd-cabinet manufacturer. In 2002, Mckelvey co-founded Third Degree Glass Factory which functions as a glass blowing studio and gallery and private event space.

McKelvey is still an active Board of Directors member of Block, Inc. Mckelvey co-founded LaunchCode in 2013, which is a non-profit organization that helps grow new talent and give training and job opportunities to those who may not have a traditional background through apprenticeships. Mckelvey is also involved in philanthropy with his alma mater, Washington University.

Paul Ryan

Former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives

Paul Ryan was the 54th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. In office from October 2015 to January 2019, he was the youngest speaker in nearly 150 years. During his tenure, Ryan spearheaded efforts to reform our nation’s tax code for the first time in a generation, rebuild our national defense, expand domestic energy production, combat the opioid epidemic, reform our criminal justice system, and promote economic opportunity.

John Cochrane

Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University

John H. Cochrane is the Rose-Marie and Jack Anderson Senior Fellow of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. His monetary economics publications include the book The Fiscal Theory of the Price Level and articles on monetary policy.

Dr. Arthur c. Brooks

Center for Public Leadership at Harvard University

Arthur Brooks is a professor at the Harvard Kennedy School and the Harvard Business School, where he teaches courses on leadership and happiness. He is also a columnist at The Atlantic, where he writes the popular weekly “How to Build a Life” column.

Jerome Adams

Former U.S. Surgeon General

As the 20th U.S. Surgeon General and a prior member of the President’s Coronavirus task force, Dr. Adams has been at the forefront of America’s most pressing health challenges. A regular communicator via tv, radio, and in print, Dr. Adams is an expert not just in the science, but also in communicating the science to the lay public, and making it relevant to various audiences.

David Malpass

13th President of the World Bank Group

David Malpass served during President Trump’s first Administration as U.S. Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs in 2017-2019 and as World Bank President in 2019-2023, following 24 years as a leading Wall Street economist and columnist with Forbes and the Wall Street Journal.

Niall Ferguson

Milbank Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford; Belfer Senior Fellow, Harvard

Niall Ferguson, MA, D.Phil., is a renowned historian and prolific author of sixteen books, including the acclaimed works The Ascent of Money, which won an International Emmy, and Kissinger, 1923-1968: The Idealist, which earned the Council on Foreign Relations’ Arthur Ross Book Award.

Mark Milley

Retired United States Ary General, 20th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

General (Ret.) Mark A. Milley most recently served as the 20th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the nation’s highest-ranking military officer, and the principal military advisor to the President, Secretary of Defense, and National Security Council. He retired Sept. 29, 2023.

BCR Founders Club “King or Queen of the Mile” Experience

Celebration

Brush Creek Ranch Vest, conclude with a Charcuterie Board and Cocktails

“The Art of the Team” Wagon Tour

Celebration

Custom Branded Hat

Happy Hour and History of the North Platte River Valley with Author C.J. Box

Happy Hour and History of the North Platte River Valley with Author C.J. Box invites you to an engaging afternoon of storytelling, history, and conversation. Join New York Times bestselling author C.J. Box for a captivating exploration of the North Platte River Valley’s rich and rugged past, where tales of pioneers, wildlife, and Western lore come to life. Relax with a refreshing drink in hand as C.J. Box shares his knowledge and anecdotes about the region that has inspired his thrilling novels. This unique happy hour experience blends history, literature, and the scenic beauty of the Ranch, making for an unforgettable gathering where fans of the West, mystery fiction, and local heritage come together to celebrate the spirit of Wyoming.

Celebration

Autographed Hardcopy of “The Disappeared”

Wagyu Grilling & Essential Knife Skills

Celebration

Custom Apron

Purdey Driven Pheasant Hunt

Experience the thrill of the Purdey Driven Pheasant Hunt at Brush Creek Ranch, an extraordinary adventure that combines heritage, precision, and the beauty of the Wyoming landscape. This exclusive event offers participants the chance to engage in a traditional, high-adrenaline driven pheasant shoot, guided by expert marksmen and field professionals. Guests will handle and fire Purdey shotguns, renowned for their craftsmanship and accuracy, while being immersed in the traditions of upland hunting. Following the hunt, enjoy a celebratory gathering featuring fine dining, storytelling, and a true appreciation of sporting camaraderie.

Celebration

Brush Creek Ranch Barbour Vest

Wildlife Ecology Hike with Naturalist Doug Wachob

Wildlife Ecology Hike with Naturalist Doug Wachob at Brush Creek Ranch is an unforgettable adventure into the captivating ecosystems of the Ranch. Led by Doug Wachob, an experienced naturalist and wildlife ecologist, this guided hike takes you through diverse landscapes, from rolling meadows to dense woodlands, providing a unique opportunity to explore the area’s rich biodiversity. Doug’s expertise and passion for the natural world will bring each aspect of the ecosystemto life, offering insights into the behaviors and habitats of local wildlife. Learn about animal tracks, plant species, and ecological relationships that define this thriving environment. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a curious explorer, this hike promises an engaging and educational experience that deepens your appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Wyoming’s wild landscapes.

Celebration

Brush Creek Ranch Branded Water Bottle and Brush Creek Ranch Ballcap

Verdant Flow Yoga at Brush Creek Ranch Greenhouse

Verdant Flow Yoga at Brush Creek Ranch’s Greenhouse invites you to rejuvenate your body and spirit in a serene, nature-inspired setting. Surrounded by the lush greenery and tranquility of the Ranch’s picturesque Greenhouse, this yoga experience harmonizes breath and movement in a space filled with the calming energy. Begin your journey with an immersive tour through our 20,000-square-foot Greenhouse, selecting your favorite fruits and vegetables right from the vines. Enjoy a guided yoga practice that caters to all levels, emphasizing mindful flow and grounding postures to deepen your connection to the natural world. The peaceful ambiance of the greenhouse, coupled with the soothing aroma of fresh flora, creates a truly restorative escape. Perfect for relaxation, reflection, and renewal, Verdant Flow Yoga offers a unique opportunity to find balance and inner peace in the heart of Brush Creek Ranch. Afterwards, savor fresh pressed juice from your plucked ingredients to nourish your body and evaluate your spirit.

Celebration

Fresh Juice and Branded Yoga Mat

Master Distiller Tour with Barrel Thieving

Celebration

Personally Branded Keepsake Bottle of Brush Creek Ranch Bourbon or Rye

Trailblazer Ride to Kennaday Peak

Celebration

Photo with Brush Creek Ranch Picture Frame

Western Heritage: Cattle Drive and Branding Experience

We invite you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Old West. Join seasoned ranchers on a thrilling cattle drive across sweeping plains, working alongside the team to herd livestock just as cowboys have done for generations. Feel the rhythm of the land as you ride on horseback, taking in the vast, untamed beauty of the countryside. The adventure continues with an authentic branding ceremony, where you’ll witness the art and significance of marking cattle, this is a tradition steeped in history and pride. This hands-on experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with the Western heritage, celebrating the spirit of the frontier and the legacy of ranching culture. Perfect for those seeking an unforgettable, authentic encounter with the heart of the West.

Celebration

Personal Branded Item, Brush Creek Ranch Bandana & Cowboy Cocktail

AGENDA

WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2026

6:45 AM

Optional Nature Hike

Activities Barn

7:00 – 8:15 AM

Breakfast

Trailhead Lodge & Spa

8:30 – 9:45 AM

Session 5

Whither Capitalism? Thriving, Surviving, or Self-Destructing?

The Saddle Barn, The Farm

Speakers

William Cohan (moderator)

Adam Posen

Luigi Zingales

10:15 – 11:30 AM

Session 6

The Political Mix in ’26 – The Mid-Term Outlook and What it Could Mean for 2028

The Saddle Barn, The Farm

Speakers

Mark Halperin

Bruce Mehlman

Peggy Noonan (Moderator)

12:00 PM

Lunch + Session 7

The Future of Conservatism: A Discussion with VP Pence

Barrel Barn

Speaker

Mitch Daniels

Mike Pence

1:45 PM

Afternoon Experiences

Activities Barn

6:00 PM

Session 8

A Conversation with Secretary Condoleezza Rice

The Saddle Barn, The Farm

Speakers

Mitch Daniels

Condoleezza Rice

7:30 PM

Finale Dinner

The Cheyenne Club, The Farm

Evening

Afterglow

Saloon

We Invite You

Afternoon Experiences

Join us at Brush Creek Ranch and immerse yourself in over 30,000 acres of pristine Wyoming wilderness.

William Cohan

Veteran Wall Street Journalist, Bestselling Author, Founding Partner of Puck

Adam Posen

President of the Peterson Institute for International Economics

Luigi Zingales

The Robert C. McCormack Distinguished Service Professor of Entrepreneurship and Finance, University of Chicago Booth School of Business

Mark Halperin

Editor-in-chief of the 2WAY Video Platform and Host of “Next Up” on the Megyn Kelly Media Network

Bruce Mehlman

Founder, Mehlman Consulting

Peggy Noonan

Writer, author, and columnist for the Wall Street Journal

Mitch Daniels

Interim President of Purdue University, Senior Advisor to the Liberty Fund, and a Former Governor of Indiana

Mike Pence

48th Vice President of the United States

Condoleezza Rice

Political scientist and former United States Secretary of State

Thomas Fuchs

Senior Vice President and Chief AI Officer at Eli Lilly

Nela Richardson

Chief Economist and ESG Officer for ADP Inc.

Mung Chiang

President of Purdue University and the Roscoe H. George Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Stu Jones

Former United States Ambassador to Iraq

Toby Rice

President and Chief Executive Officer of EQT Corporation

Maya McGuineas

President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget

Deputy Director
Fiscal Affairs Department
International Monetary Fund

Senior United States Senator
from West Virginia