#ZAGConf26
Fear. Something to be scared of?
29th October 2026 | 4pm - 7.30pm
Union House, Edinburgh
Learn more about ZAGFear is one of the most powerful forces shaping how we think, act and make decisions. It can drive ambition, spark progress and push us beyond our comfort zones but it can also hold us back. This year, we’ll explore fear from every angle: how we respond to it, how we harness it, and what happens when we choose to face it.
This is our fourth ZAG conference. The first one focused on non-conformity and why an idea, coming from an unexpected place, can change everything.
Previous ZAG eventsOur speakers
Each of our four speakers has a very particular relationship with fear. Over the course of the evening, they will share their respective stories and experiences.
Edward Romain
Founder & CEO, Blind Justice UK
Edward Romain trained as a barrister, then walked away from the law for fifteen years. He came back after representing himself in his own court case, an experience that showed him how intimidating the justice system is for ordinary people. He founded Blind Justice UK to change that, and his book, Alone in Court, is published on the 3rd of November.
Dr. Chiara Horlin
Senior Lecturer, Psychology & Neuroscience Education Hub, University of Glasgow
When you think of stress relief, what do you think of? A green tea? A long walk? Or flying around on a giant trapeze? Dr Chiara Horlin joins us at ZAG to talk about the psychology of fear and show us the benefits of the good stress that comes from triumphing over something terrifying.
Diana Hunter
C-suite Business Leader and Non-Executive Director
Diana changed the way supermarkets were formatted in the early 00's, paving the way for others in the sector. Reformatting, overhauling and spearheading could have put her up against the fear of the unknown as well as the patriarchy, as a young woman in a male-dominated industry at the time, but this did not hold her back from success. Diana's inspiring story of boldly leading through change brings years of business experience from some of Britain's best-known brands to our ZAG panel.
Leo Houlding
World-renowned British rock climber and mountaineer
For over 30 years, Leo has led extreme expeditions in search of ambitious climbs, new lines and meaningful journeys. As an ambassador for The Outward Bound Trust and Berghaus, Leo is committed to helping more people experience the confidence, connection and possibility that come from going a little further. He brings those experiences to life through award-winning films, acclaimed books and now to us, at ZAG. Lean in for gripping tales of people, places, uncertainty and challenge.
What to expect
We hope that ZAG inspires and motivates you to think a little differently. The event will include refreshments and a panel Q&A with our speakers. We hope you can join us.
We will only be releasing 120 tickets so you’ll need to be quick. You can use our registration form below to secure your place at ZAG now.
It’s all happening at Union House, the HQ of The Union. It’s a neo-classicist church (impossible to miss) at 18 Inverleith Terrace, Edinburgh EH3 5NS, just opposite the Botanics.
Please be at Union House for 4pm. The conference begins at 4.10pm, so we would like everyone to be seated before then.
Yes, we will be providing a modest selection of potable goodies. There will also be the opportunity to network from 7pm (on completion of the panel) which will also be accompanied by drinks.
We are an integrated marketing agency based in Edinburgh. This is the third ZAG conference we’ve hosted. Find out more about who we are and what we do.
No, we plan on hosting ZAG every year. The venue won’t change but the theme will always be topical, and sometimes, controversial.
We want everyone attending ZAG to be inspired and have fun. That's why we're committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment where everyone is treated with respect. We do not tolerate inappropriate behaviour or harassment of attendees, speakers or event staff in any form, including inappropriate online conduct such as comments or responses to talks on social media.
If you experience anything that causes distress or makes you feel unsafe while attending ZAG, please report it to our event staff who will attempt to resolve the matter.
If you have any accessibility requirements or need assistance to attend the event, please let us know in advance by contacting us at conference@union.co.uk, and we'll be happy to help!
