Refined Conference 2026: The Recap

Refined Conference 2026: Refining Your Vision, Pursuing Your Purpose

“… refined by fire …”
1 Peter 1:7

In February 2026, we gathered again in beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee—hearts open, journals ready, and spirits expectant—for two unforgettable days of worship, meaningful connection, and practical Kingdom-led insight at Refined Conference 2026. What started as a gentle nudge in 2021 has grown into what we believe is a movement of Kingdom-minded creatives and leaders committed to refining their vision and pursuing God-given purpose, together.

This year’s theme, “Refine Your Vision. Pursue Your Purpose,” was so much more than a tagline. It became our prayer over every session, conversation, and shared coffee-and-community moment. Our attendees came from the Chattanooga area and all across the country, writers, business owners, nonprofit leaders, podcasters, speakers, and creatives ready to lean into community, receive encouragement, and step into the next season of their calling with clarity and courage.

From the moment the doors opened at our new venue, Mac Avenue Event Space in downtown Chattanooga, there was a palpable sense of anticipation. Old friends hugged, new introductions were made, and a rhythm of peaceful presence settled over the gathering. Rather than a crowded business expo or a hurried seminar, Refined Conference deliberately created space to slow down, to hear God’s voice, and to connect deeply with others who understand the tension of living faithfully in creative and professional callings.

This two-day experience was filled with elements we’ve come to cherish: worship that centered our hearts, keynote sessions that challenged and encouraged, and interactive breakouts that provided actionable insights attendees could use immediately.

The Featured Speakers & General Sessions

We were honored to welcome an incredible lineup of main session leaders who exemplify faith-filled leadership and Kingdom impact. Their voices, experiences, and hearts helped shape a weekend that was both inspiring and deeply practical.

Becky Kopitzke invited attendees into a conversation about stewardship, growth, and obedience in both life and business. Drawing from her experience as an author and coach, Becky challenged us to think differently about success—encouraging sustainable rhythms, faithful action, and marketing practices that align with our values rather than compete with them. Her session offered clarity and permission to grow without striving.

”God has gifted us each uniquely and He gets to decide what success looks like for us”
– Becky Kopitzke

Courtnaye Richard spoke powerfully into the intersection of leadership, purpose, and stewarding our businesses well. With honesty and wisdom, she encouraged attendees to refine their vision by anchoring it in identity rather than outcomes. Her message reminded us that pursuing purpose often requires courage, consistency, integrity, and a willingness to show up faithfully.

”If you don’t ever make mistakes, you don’t ever learn.” – Courtnaye Richard

Micah Fries brought a grounding and pastoral presence to the weekend, guiding us through thoughtful reflection on calling, community, and Kingdom faithfulness even in a divided culture. His session invited attendees to consider how theology and everyday obedience shape the way we lead, connect, and serve. With depth and practicality, Micah reminded us that our first calling is to compassionately love and invest in others, regardless of beliefs or differences.

”We have to reframe how we engage with people who are different from us.” – Micah Fries

Jenn Hand delivered a message that was entertaining and encouraging, while also deeply challenging. Known for her heart for renewal and restoration, Jenn called attendees to find hope in the Lord, and then courageously share that same hope with others. Her words created space for honesty, humor, and healing as we step forward with a renewed commitment to rebuild what matters most.

”They found hope by mourning, fasting, and praying, then got up and did something.” – Jenn Hand

Each leader brought a unique perspective on refining vision, stewarding calling, and pursuing purpose with courage and compassion. Their sessions invited attendees to wrestle honestly with how we steward our platforms and voices, where we need to step deeper into obedience, and when it’s time to lean into the strength of community.

Intentional Breakout Sessions & Community Building

Refined Conference isn’t just about listening—it’s about doing. This year included expanded breakout sessions, with interactive roundtables, hands-on workshops, and reflection spaces that were carefully woven into the program to bring insight to life. These intentional spaces where attendees could engage with content on a deeper level, ask questions, and build skills in real time are the heart of the event, designed to meet people exactly where they are, with both practical tools and spiritual encouragement. Attendees worked on real goals, shared challenges, and left with strategic next steps they can apply immediately.

Across topics ranging from marketing and branding to nonprofit leadership, storytelling, and technology, attendees dove into small-group discussions that sparked both reflection and forward motion.

Our bonus workshop on Friday evening was a sweet time of goal setting and casting our visions for the year. We enjoyed crafting alongside attendees as words for the year were selected and vision boards assembled. This additional casual, community time was truly a bonus.

Beyond the sessions, plenty of time was built into the schedule for personal connection through vendor visits, sponsor conversations, shared lunches, and community conversations that formed throughout both days. These spaces became fertile ground for encouragement, accountability, and long-lasting relationships.

Sponsors & Vendors Who Make It Beautiful

We are deeply grateful to the sponsors and vendors whose presence enriched this year’s experience. Their support helped us create spaces where attendees felt welcomed, equipped, and cared for. Featured partners included community-centered organizations, businesses, and ministries committed to creative and Kingdom-driven work. As always, it was fun to see attendees engaging with each of the sponsors and vendors, offering support, and taking home some fantastic merchandise and resources.

We’d love to share a final shoutout to the sponsors and vendors who participated in this year’s Refined Conference!

Special Thanks

In the spirit of community, we always want to share a special thanks to the service providers and other partners who helped make this year’s conference possible.

A Season of Refining, A Community of Purpose

As the weekend drew to a close, one thing became unmistakably clear: Refined Conference is more than a conference or event. It’s a collective of those who desire for their work to serve a higher purpose. Our hope is that all participants left with renewed confidence, fresh clarity, intentional next steps, and the reassurance that they are not walking alone.

We are so grateful to every attendee, session leader, sponsor, volunteer, and prayer partner who joined us. Your presence and bold pursuit of the calling God has placed on your heart made this year unforgettable. The connections made, insights gained, and spiritual refreshment shared will continue to ripple through our hearts and minds long after the weekend.

We cannot wait to see what God does next as we continue to refine our visions and pursue our purposes, together.

Join Us Next Time

Whether you joined us this year or are just discovering Refined, we hope you’ll be part of what comes next. If this post stirred your heart, come meet your people, deepen your calling, and grow in a community that believes deeply that your message and mission are designed for Kingdom impact. We’d love to have you with us next time!

Stay tuned for more event news and opportunities!