Introducing our Portside Summit 2026 Agenda

Introducing our Portside Summit 2026 Agenda

As we continue to gear up for our annual Summit, we’re excited to share a first look at the agenda for the day. Featuring dynamic speakers, branding experts, and Portsiders presenting real-world strategies from their own businesses, this year’s program is designed to leave agents feeling empowered and ready to take on the year ahead.

 

After starting our day with Dava’s Opening Remarks (link to specific blog) and our Keynote session with Christine George (link to specific blog), Portsiders will enjoy general sessions in the morning. The afternoon will consist of a mix of breakouts and general sessions, including an exciting panel of local business owners!

 

Check out our agenda below, along with a closer look at each session!

 

“Sustained Success: Building Your Brand,” led by Greater Portland Agent Relations Manager Alyssa Bouthot, expands on lessons from our keynote. Panelists will share how they’ve built long-term, recognizable brands in their markets. Sarah Carson will discuss shifting her business successfully from Greater Portland to Central Maine, Taylor McFarlane will cover how she uses data to maintain her market share, and Erica Brooks will highlight building a year-round brand within a highly seasonal market.

 

“From Offer to Agreement: Negotiating for Better Outcomes,” will be led by Catie Seavey, our Agent Relations Manager for York County and New Hampshire Principal Broker, and Brian Maiorino. During this workshop, Portsiders will explore case studies covering all stages of a deal as they work to create solutions that work for all parties. Attendees will leave with actionable techniques to help them close more deals and strengthen relationships along the way.

 

“Amazing Service Defined” will be a breakout session led by David Bruce, our Agent Relations Manager for the Midcoast region. Panelists Jim McFarlane, Courtney Sweeton, and Sarah Singer will explore the power of giving clients more than they expect. They’ll share stories and examples of how they have turned transactions into lifelong relationships through exceptional hospitality and the strength of elevating every interaction.

 

In breakout session, “Community Connection: Building Your Brand Through Local Impact,” panelists Kaili Moore, Jennifer Tabb, Sarah Delisle, and Mary Hussey will explore how they have transformed their charitable efforts into powerful brand differentiators. Portsiders will leave actionable ideas for integrating giving into their business strategy in ways that feel authentic, sustainable, and aligned with their brand.

 

Led by Seacoast NH Agent Relations Manager, Christina Frost, “Contingencies That Count: Turning Conditions into Closing Power,” will be a breakout session focusing on the creative use of contingencies to protect clients while ensuring deals make it to the closing table. Panelists Kate Kerkam, Sophia Rosendo, and Lynn Lagasse cover key forms, tactical applications, and best practices for navigating today’s competitive market.

 

Agents will return to general sessions in the afternoon with “Grit & Growth: An Entrepreneur's Mindset.” This panel will feature local business owners sharing their insights on what it takes to build a recognizable brand. We’re excited to share that this panel will feature Ryan Eldridge of Kennebec Cabin Company and Maine Cabin Masters! Agents will walk away re-energized, with practical insights and renewed motivation to grow your business. For more on this panel, check out our blog here.

 

The strength of Portside’s Summit has always been the people in the room, from the speakers who share their expertise to the agents who show up ready to learn, collaborate, and elevate their craft. This year’s agenda reflects our commitment to offering education that is both actionable and inspiring, designed to help agents build brands with clarity, serve clients with excellence, and make a lasting impact in the communities we love. We can’t wait to learn and grow together.