NerdCon 2025

Jen Bricker-Bauer 

Speaker | Acrobat | Believer in the Impossible

Jen Bricker-Bauer is a world-renowned acrobat, aerialist, and motivational speaker whose life story continues to inspire millions across the globe. Born without legs and placed for adoption, Jen defied every expectation by living a life filled with boldness, resilience, and unshakable faith. She grew up in a small town with a “no excuses” mindset—one that propelled her to become a champion tumbler and later an internationally touring performer, including sharing the stage with Britney Spears.

Jen’s journey has been featured on HBO, Good Morning America, and in countless publications, but her impact goes far beyond headlines. Through her bestselling book Everything Is Possible and powerful keynote speeches, Jen challenges audiences to see obstacles as opportunities and to pursue purpose over fear.

Today, Jen continues to travel the world speaking, performing, and sharing a message of hope, faith, and possibility—all while championing adoption, disability inclusion, and the power of the human spirit.

Ava Murbarger 

Author of the Orythian Journey Series

Ava Murbarger is a young fantasy and science fiction author from Southern Illinois whose stories seek out the light without ignoring the dark. A Christian, homeschooler, and pastor’s kid, she lives with her parents and younger brother and has been telling stories for as long as she can remember.

Her passion for writing began with a love of worldbuilding, first sparked by building on stories she’d read and, for a time, creating dragon-filled adventures. That creative spark became something more with her debut novel, Healer, the first book in her Orythian Journeys series. The saga continues with Outlaw and is planned as a five-book series—Ava is currently halfway through Book Three.

Ava honed her skills as a member of the Young Writer’s Workshop and several critique groups, and she continues to challenge herself to create meaningful stories that resonate with readers. Among her literary influences are Andrew Peterson, N. D. Wilson, and Christopher Hopper, authors whose works she frequently rereads for inspiration.

Beyond the page, Ava is passionate about music—she plays guitar and often finds focus while writing by listening to Twenty One Pilots. She also enjoys games like Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: the Gathering, and has a keen interest in Greek and Roman mythology.

With a growing body of work and plenty of ideas in the wings, Ava Murbarger is a rising voice in fantasy fiction. Readers can follow her journey and stay connected through her monthly newsletter at avamurbargerauthor.com.