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- LST Speakers & Talent | Speaker & Talent Bureau
At LST Speakers and Talent, a trusted speaker and talent bureau, we provide top keynote speakers, celebrities, entertainers, influencers, and athletes to create impactful events and campaigns. With 50+ years of expertise and industry connections, we save you time and money while ensuring a perfect match for your budget and goals. From B2B to B2C and B2G initiatives, our strategic approach drives measurable results and elevates your events. Discover unmatched talent solutions with us. EXCEPTIONAL VOICES UNMATCHED TALENT INSPIRATION DELIVERED At LST Speakers and Talent, we specialize in delivering the RIGHT solution to create the greatest impact for your event or campaign. Whether it’s finding a powerful keynote speaker, sports legend, celebrity, entertainer or influencer, our team leverages 50+ years of industry expertise and cultivated relationships to save you time and money. Our detailed approach to understanding your needs and budget ensures a strategic fit for your B2B, B2C, or B2G initiatives, elevating your events and campaigns while driving measurable results. SPEAKERS + TALENT SPOTLIGHT Robyn Benincasa World Champion Adventure Racer and Firefighter, Keynote Speaker Daryl "Moose" Johnston 3x Super Bowl Champion, Analyst for Fox Sports NFL Jason Garrett Analyst, Football Night in America, Former Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Alex Weber The Leadership Ninja Melissa Majors CEO, Innovator & Expert in Optimizing Learning, Inclusion, and Leadership Strategies
- Erik Qualman
5x Bestselling Author and Keynote Speaker Erik Qualman 5x Bestselling Author and Keynote Speaker Erik Qualman is a globally recognized keynote speaker on AI, digital leadership, focus, and the future of work. He is a 5x #1 bestselling author and has spoken in over 60 countries and reached more than 60 million people while earning a 4.9 rating out of 5 for motivating his audiences. Qualman helps organizations turn change into a competitive advantage. He is known for helping leaders and teams future-proof themselves in an AI-powered world—focusing not just on technology, but on the human behaviors that drive success. A former Silicon Valley executive and sitting professor at Harvard and MIT’s edX Labs, he earned an honorary doctorate for his groundbreaking work. Qualman currently teaches Digital Leadership & AI at Northwestern University. His work sits at the intersection of innovation, leadership, and emerging technology, with a practical focus on moving to action. His high-energy, interactive keynotes move audiences to action—literally and figuratively. Attendees wear his signature green glasses as a reminder to focus on the future—thinking big versus busy—creating a memorable experience that blends insights with fun. His work has been featured on 60 Minutes and in The Wall Street Journal, and used by organizations ranging from Google to the FBI. He was voted the 2nd Most Likely Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Qualman’s Socialnomics work has been deployed by Nordstrom to the National Guard to NASA. His commencement address on “Things Happen for You, Not to You” is one of the most-watched in the world on YouTube. TOPICS Digital Leadership: Future Proofing You And Your Organization Focus: How To Focus In An Unfocused Way | Big vs. Busy Artificial Intelligence: Transforming Your Future...Today Innovation By Design: Being The Disrupter vs. The Disrupted Socialnomics: Winning Customers' Hearts + Minds At Scale BOOKS The Focus Project: The Not So Simple Art of Doing Less, Better Digital Leader Socialnomics What Happens On Campus Stays on YouTube What Happens in Vegas Stays on YouTube How To Sell on LinkedIn: 30 Tips in 30 Days PAST CLIENTS Disney SAP Statefarm Chase XBOX Orangetheory Fitness Fidelity Meta BNY Mellon
- Caroline Adams Miller, MAPP
Goals & Grit™ Expert Caroline Adams Miller, MAPP Goals & Grit™ Expert For over three decades, Caroline has been a pioneer with her groundbreaking work in the areas of goal setting, grit, happiness and success. She is recognized as one of the world’s leading positive psychology experts on this research and how it can be applied to one’s life for maximum transformation. Caroline helps people identify, come up with a plan for, and persist in achieving their toughest goals while also inspiring those around them – the “awethentic effect.” Her groundbreaking book, Creating Your Best Life (2009/2021), the first mass market book on goals that included evidence-based research, connected the science of success with the science of happiness. Dr. Martin Seligman, the “father of Positive Psychology” proclaimed the book as adding a “major missing piece” to goal literature in his book Flourish, and many websites have continued to rank CYBL as the #1 goal book of all time, leading to its reissue in 2021. In her keynote presentations and workshops, Caroline blends her personal experience, real life examples and research in positive psychology, to come up with practical applications that allow for maximum transformation and growth in people’s lives. Caroline leaves her audiences with tangible takeaways and actions they can use to create their own happiness and success. Caroline has worked with clients around the world including: Morgan Stanley, lululemon, The Wharton School/UPENN, RE/MAX, Booz Allen, Young Presidents’ Organization, Harvard Law School, and Swisse Wellness. Caroline is a popular presenter in the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton Business School Executive Education program. In addition to the books named above, Caroline is the author of Positively Caroline (Cogent 2013) and My Name is Caroline (Doubleday 1988), which are the only two memoirs that cover the onset of bulimia to three decades of unbroken recovery. Caroline’s work has been featured in hundreds of magazines, newspapers and other media around the world for decades, including BBC World News, The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC, NPR, and CNN. Caroline has a Masters of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and graduated magna cum laude from Harvard. She is a top-ranked Masters Swimmer and is a black belt martial artist.e first book to give readers hope that recovery was possible, leading to her being featured on magazine covers and television stations around the world for many years. TOPICS Getting Grit: Put Passion, Perseverance and Purpose to Work! The New Science of Goal Setting: How to Achieve Game-Changing Results Creating Your Best Life—In and Out of the Office: How Women Can Pursue Meaningful Goals and Live with No Regrets How to Cultivate Grit in Schools… And Put the “Awe” Back in Awesome! BOOKS Getting Grit: The Evidence-Based Approach to Cultivating Passion, Perseverance, and Purpose Creating Your Best Life: The Ultimate Life List Guide Positively Caroline: How I Beat Bulimia For Good… and Found Real Happiness My Name is Caroline Feeding the Soul: Daily Meditations for Recovering from Eating Disorders Bright Words for Dark Days PAST CLIENTS Morgan Stanley lululemon The Wharton School/UPENN RE/MAX Booz Allen Young Presidents’ Organization Harvard Law School American Bankers Association Swisse Wellness Vantage Partners Wholebeing Institute Canadian Positive Psychology Association Confluent Health Ravenswood School
- Dr. Mary Kelly, CSP, Commander, US Navy
Improve profit growth Dr. Mary Kelly, CSP, Commander, US Navy Improve profit growth Dr. Mary C. Kelly has built an unforgettable career in leadership, beginning as a naval intelligence officer and continuing as one of today’s most influential economists. With a diverse background that includes roles as a former chief of police, professor, realtor, and HR director, Mary has dedicated over 25 years to teaching and training more than 40,000 military and civilian personnel. She is now on a mission to spread her message of success, sharing the secrets to effective leadership in today’s workplace with audiences around the world. As a high-energy keynote speaker, Mary combines research, humor, and personal experience to inspire professionals to excel. Her relatable, no-nonsense approach encourages individuals to embrace their roles, exceed their goals, and plan for the future. In addition to her speaking engagements, Mary is the author of 13 books on business growth, leadership, and the modern economy. She has worked with hundreds of organizations and companies globally, offering coaching, training, and expertise to help leaders thrive in their respective fields. TOPICS Master Your World: 10 Executive Strategies to improve productivity, profits, and communication 10 military secrets for building teams that work Survive and thrive during changing times 15 ways to grow your business in every economy The good, the bad and the ugly: an economic update to grow your business Stop the barking: Communicate effectively at work BOOKS In Case of Emergency Break Glass! Why Leaders Fail and the 7 Prescriptions for Success Who Comes Next? Leadership Succession Planning Made Easy Checklist for Starting a Successful Business Kindle Edition 5 Minutes Per Week – 52 Weeks to a Better Business 12-Month Business Accountability and Success Planner The Five Minute Leadersh ip Guide PAST CLIENTS State Farm Air Force Academy Health One American Cheese Society Holmes Murphy Clarke Power Sources National Association of Realtors Remax Homeland Security Blue Ocean Enterprises Steel and Pipe Supply AMC Institute LPL Financial Snow College Valley Health Novel iron Works Century 21 MMIC Bryant University AAMSE Mountain Credit Union NetVU SMU ULINE TrueValue
- Tucker Bryant
Poet & Former Googler Tucker Bryant Poet & Former Googler Tucker Bryant is a nationally renowned poet and former technology leader. After nurturing his craft at Stanford University, Tucker became a lead Product Marketing Manager at Google where he discovered the potential of the creative tools poets have relied on for millennia to drive innovative leadership in the corporate world. After a decade in Silicon Valley, Tucker left Google to challenge leaders to Turn the Page™ to unlock innovative leadership, competitive advantage, and sustainable growth. His performances, which have garnered millions of views online, have featured at TEDx, The New York Times, and dozens of other organizations across the globe. He has had the privilege of sharing on stages alongside Mark Cuban, Malcolm Gladwell, Gary Vaynerchuk, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Mel Robbins as well as governors and executives from scores of Fortune 500 companies. TOPICS Turn the Page: Innovative Thinking for Better Results Turn the Page: From Comfort to Calling Turn the Page: Leading the Charge for Change PAST CLIENTS Google New York Times Coca-Cola TD Bank Bristol Myers Squibb Active International Swiss Re Resideo BDO Compeer Financial YPO
- Geoff Colvin
Senior Editor-at-Large, Fortune Magazine and Author, Talent is Overrated Geoff Colvin Senior Editor-at-Large, Fortune Magazine and Author, Talent is Overrated Geoff Colvin is an award-winning thinker, author, broadcaster, and speaker on today’s most significant trends in business. As FORTUNE’s Senior Editor-at-Large, he has become one of America’s sharpest and most respected commentators on leadership, globalization, wealth creation, the infotech revolution, and related issues. As anchor of Wall Street Week with FORTUNE on PBS, he spoke each week to the largest audience reached by any business television program in America. Colvin’s groundbreaking bestseller Talent Is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers From Everybody Else received the Harold A. Longman Award for Best Business Book of the Year and has been published in a dozen languages. Charlie Rose says it is “spectacular” and “fascinating.” Daniel H. Pink calls it “profoundly important.” Donald Trump calls it “enlightening” and “inspiring.” Colvin’s book The Upside of the Downturn: Ten Management Strategies to Prevail in the Recession and Thrive in the Aftermath was named the best management book of the year by Strategy + Business magazine. Directorship magazine has named Colvin one of the 100 most influential figures in corporate governance. As a speaker, Colvin has engaged hundreds of audiences on six continents. He is also a skilled on-stage interviewer whose subjects have included Jack Welch, Henry Kissinger, Richard Branson, the Prince of Wales, Bill Gates, Alan Greenspan, Steve Case, Ted Turner, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and many others. He is the regular lead moderator of the Fortune Global Forum , and he serves as moderator for the International Business Leaders Forum in London. Colvin is one of America’s preeminent business broadcasters. He is heard daily on the CBS Radio Network, where he has made over 10,000 broadcasts and reaches seven million listeners each week. He has appeared on Today, The O’Reilly Factor, Good Morning America, Squawk Box, CBS This Morning, ABC’s World News, CNN, PBS’s Nightly Business Report , and dozens of other programs. A native of Vermillion, South Dakota, Colvin is an honors graduate of Harvard with a degree in economics and has an M.B.A. from New York University. TOPICS Leading Ahead of What’s Next What the World’s Best Companies Know/Are Doing Right Now The Political Circus, a Complex Economy and the Future of Your Business Talent Is Overrated – Real Truths of Great Performance BOOKS Talent is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers From Everybody Else PAST CLIENTS AG Edwards ADP American Express General Mills International Business Leaders Forum Microsoft Pitney Bowes Siemens University of Chicago Accenture Allied Capital Bank of America IBM KPMG Peoplesoft Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellows Program Techpoint Watson Wyatt
- Terri Sjodin
Principal and Founder of Sjodin Communications Terri Sjodin Principal and Founder of Sjodin Communications Terri Sjodin is a renowned speaker, author, and entrepreneur, recognized for her expertise in helping professionals enhance their persuasive presentation skills. With over thirty years of experience, she founded Sjodin Communications from a small home office and has since built an impressive client list, including Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, national sales teams, industry associations, and even members of Congress. Terri is the author of several influential books, including Scrappy and the New York Times Best Seller, Small Message, Big Impact (Penguin/Portfolio). Her book also earned spots on the Wall Street Journal Hardcover Business Bestseller list and the USA Today Money bestseller list. Her latest work, Presentation Ready , is based on a multi-year, three-phase research study and was published by McGraw-Hill. In recognition of her excellence in the speaking industry, Terri was inducted into the NSA Speaker Hall of Fame in July 2012. The CPAE (Certified Professional Speaker Award) is the highest lifetime honor for speaking excellence, awarded to those who excel in material, style, experience, delivery, image, professionalism, and communication. Additionally, Terri has earned the prestigious CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) designation, held by less than 12% of the 5,000 members of the International Federation for Professional Speakers. She was also named one of the Top 5 Women in Business by the Orange County Business Journal. Beyond her entrepreneurial and writing success, Terri is a sought-after LinkedIn Learning Instructor and a frequent guest on national radio and TV talk shows, including The Today Show, Bloomberg, CNN, CNBC, and various industry podcasts. Terri’s commitment to social causes is evident in her service on the Orange County Board of Trustees for Olive Crest, an organization dedicated to preventing child abuse, supporting at-risk children, and preserving families. Terri graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication. Before founding her own company, she was a top sales producer with both The Achievement Group and Resource Dynamics. Terri blends academic communication theory with real-world sales experience, accumulated over thousands of business presentations across the country. As a result, she’s known for advising today’s professionals on how to become more polished and persuasive presenters in a constantly evolving marketplace. Terri is a high-content speaker with a unique, real-world approach. Her presentations are fresh, engaging, and practical, filled with actionable strategies that professionals can implement immediately to achieve results. Many consider Terri to be today’s sales professionals' speech coach, offering street-smart techniques that drive success. TOPICS Presentation Ready: Exploring the Art of Presenting Persuasively Building Your Persuasive Case The Scrappy Advantage… It’s About Choosing to Play Big! BOOKS Presentation Ready: Improve Your Sales Presentation Outcomes & Avoid the Twelve Most Common Mistakes Scrappy: A Little Book About Choosing to Play Big Small Message, Big Impact New Sales Speak PAST CLIENTS Ameritech B. Braun Medical Coldwell Banker Commercial Draeger Medical First American Home Warranty Guaranty Bank Health Net Incentive Marketing Association Lincoln Financial Advisors Million Dollar Roundtable – Mainstage Toronto New York Life Pacific Financial Group Straumann Group Thomson Reuters US Postal Service Western Surety YMCA
- John O'Leary
Expected to die – now, teaching others how to truly live John O'Leary Expected to die – now, teaching others how to truly live John O’Leary was just nine years old in 1987 when a tragic accident changed his life forever. While experimenting with fire and gasoline, he created a massive explosion in his home, suffering burns on 100% of his body. Given only a 1% chance to survive, John’s incredible journey of survival began. John’s story first gained attention in his parents’ book, Overwhelming Odds , which was originally printed as a small family-run project in 2006. What started as 200 copies for friends and family has now sold over 70,000 copies, many through John’s speaking events. This book was the first step toward John embracing his miraculous recovery and using it as a platform to inspire others. Today, John speaks to nearly 75,000 people each year at more than 100 in-person and virtual events, reaching audiences across industries including sales, healthcare, business, safety, marketing, financial services, faith, education, and insurance. Known for his emotional storytelling, unexpected humor, and authenticity, John is consistently described as "the best speaker we've ever had." With nearly 100% of his engagements coming from referrals, his calendar is a testament to the impact of his message. A two-time #1 National Bestselling Author, John’s first book, ON FIRE: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life , has sold 250,000+ copies and been translated into 12 languages. His second book, IN AWE: Rediscover Your Childlike Wonder to Unleash Inspiration, Meaning and Joy , published in May 2020, has been called the message we all need right now. John is also the host of the award-winning Live Inspired Podcast , which has garnered over 2.5 million downloads and features world-class guests like Brené Brown, Mitch Albom, and Shawn Achor. However, John considers his greatest success to be his marriage to his wife, Beth, their four children, and his strong relationships with friends and family. TOPICS The Power of One: How One Attitude, One Action and One Person Can Change the World On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life NEW! In Awe: Rediscover Your Childlike Sense of Wonder to Unleash Inspiration, Meaning, and Joy NEW! Pivoting Into Adversity: How to effectively navigate today’s unknowns + create tomorrow’s possibilities
- Kim Nelson
Surviving Shark Tank! Living the American Dream Kim Nelson Surviving Shark Tank! Living the American Dream Kim Nelson became one of America’s most recognized entrepreneurs after her breakthrough appearance on the hit reality TV show Shark Tank . Standing at 5’4”, Kim packs a giant-sized message about resilience, determination, and achieving the American Dream. In her dynamic and fast-paced keynote presentations, Kim shares her inspiring journey, showing audiences that with tenacity and the right mindset, they too can overcome challenges and ignite their own entrepreneurial power. A true frontrunner, Kim’s entrepreneurial journey has been nothing short of remarkable. "Entrepreneurship is an attitude that requires the belief you can conquer anything," says Kim. Her unyielding drive and resilience led her to Shark Tank, where her company, Daisy Cakes, skyrocketed to national recognition. Kim’s appearance on the show caught the attention of Barbara Corcoran, who invested $50,000 for a 25% stake in the company. In a deal that became iconic, Corcoran asked Kim to pay her $1 per cake until she repaid the $50,000 investment. Kim not only paid back every penny, but her company saw explosive growth—from sales of $27,000 to more than $3.1 million today. Kim, hailing from Pauline, South Carolina, is the CEO of Daisy Cakes, a company that’s now a household name. Her success story has been featured on national media outlets, including The Today Show, CNN, and ABC World News Tonight. Currently, Kim is preparing for her national speaking tour, titled “Surviving Shark Tank! Living the American Dream” , where she’ll continue to inspire others to take bold steps toward their dreams. TOPICS Surviving the Shark Tank: Living the American Dream Most Important Sales Pitch of Your Life Goal Setting for Securing Your Dreams
- Stephen Shapiro
It's Time to Innovate the Way You Innovate Stephen Shapiro It's Time to Innovate the Way You Innovate Stephen Shapiro is an internationally recognized innovation expert with over 25 years of experience helping organizations harness creativity and drive business transformation. Beginning his career by leading a 20,000-person innovation practice at Accenture, Stephen has since become a sought-after speaker, author, and consultant on innovation and business problem-solving. He is the author of six books on innovation, including Best Practices Are Stupid , which was named the best innovation and creativity book of 2011 by 800-CEO-READ (now Porchlight) and became an international #1 business bestseller. His latest book, Invisible Solutions: 25 Lenses that Reframe and Help Solve Difficult Business Problems , released in March 2020, was named one of the best business books of the year by Foreword Indies Book Awards. Stephen’s seventh book, PIVOTAL , is set for release in 2024. Stephen is also the creator of Personality Poker®, a card game that has been used in 35 countries to build high-performing innovation teams. With a career spanning over 50 countries, Stephen has delivered dynamic presentations at leading conferences around the globe. In 2015, he was inducted into the Speaker Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for the top speakers worldwide. Stephen’s client list includes industry giants such as Marriott, 3M, Delta Airlines, P&G, Nike, Capital One, Honda, Johnson & Johnson, Microsoft, and NASA. His innovative work has been featured in major media outlets including Newsweek, Entrepreneur Magazine, SUCCESS Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, CNBC, USA Network, TLC, and ABC News. TOPICS Reveal Hidden Solutions to Important Opportunities. A Systematic Approach for Solving Difficult Business Problems Innovate Where You Differentiate. Prioritize Your Innovation Investments to Maximize Impact Innovation in a World of Uncertainty. Place Small Bets to Win Big Personality Poker®. Creating High-Performing Innovation Teams Innovate the Way You Innovate. Redefining Innovation that Drives High ROI Innovation for Innovators. Creating a Pervasive Culture of Innovation BOOKS Invisible Solutions: 25 Lenses that Reframe and Help Solve Difficult Business Problems Best Practices Are Stupid: 40 Ways to Out-Innovate the Competition Personality Poker: The Playing Card Tool For Driving High-Performance Teamwork and Innovation Goal-free Living: How to Have the Life You Want NOW! 24/7 Innovation: A Blueprint For Surviving and Thriving in an Age of Change PAST CLIENTS Marriott 3M Delta Airlines P&G Nike Capital One Honda Johnson & Johnson Microsoft NASA
- Nick Sarillo
Build a Positive Culture on Purpose Nick Sarillo Build a Positive Culture on Purpose Nick is a successful business owner, author, and speaker specializing in business culture, entrepreneurship, leadership, and customer loyalty. As the founder and CEO of Nick’s Pizza & Pub, one of the top ten busiest independent pizza companies in the U.S., he has built a thriving business that exemplifies how a company’s purpose and values create a world-class culture, award-winning customer service, and higher margins, all while fostering an engaged and productive workforce. Nick is the creator of the Trust & Track Leadership™ Method, a unique approach that builds trust and tracks team performance, allowing leaders to coach and course-correct in real-time. In his talks, Nick shares actionable strategies and real-life examples that help transform any small business into a high-performance organization. Nick’s Pizza & Pub has become a standout in the industry, with margins nearly double the average pizza restaurant and an impressively low turnover rate. In 2017, Nick’s was recognized as a “Small Giant” by Forbes. In addition to running his successful business, Nick is the founder of the Trust & Track Institute, which offers experiential learning, hands-on training, and online courses. His work has inspired entrepreneurs, business owners, and corporate leaders to strengthen their organizational culture and improve team engagement. Nick is the author of A Slice of the Pie: How to Build a Big Little Business , and his insights have been featured in publications like The New York Times, The Economist, Fast Company, Inc. Magazine, Entrepreneur, and on NBC’s Nightly News. TOPICS Build a Positive Culture on Purpose: How to Use Purpose & Values to Create a Thriving Organization Customer Loyalty: A Family Recipe For Success Trust & Track Leadership™: A Proven Method For Achieving Purpose And Profitability Millennials and Gen Z CAN Be the Best Leaders: How to Benefit From Your Youngest Employees BOOKS A Slice of the Pie: How to Build a Big Little Business PAST CLIENTS Inc. Magazine Vistage Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) State Farm Insurance Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital Club Management Association of America (CMAA) Great Game of Business Business Owners Groups The University of Las Vegas Aileron Stericycle Meridian Associates
- Lance Armstrong
Globally-known Cyclist and Endurance Athlete Lance Armstrong Globally-known Cyclist and Endurance Athlete A globally known cyclist and endurance athlete, Lance remains passionate about the benefits of an active lifestyle. Through his decades of competitive racing, Lance has developed extensive worldwide contacts in the sports, fitness, and health markets, regularly being invited to review early-stage companies. His extensive connections have resulted in highly successful early investments in DocuSign and Uber that reflect his strong investment insights. In this digital age, Lance understands the importance of digital brand building and the power of influencers. Lance currently hosts THEMOVE , a podcast that provides analysis of stages of the Tour de France and other cycling and endurance races; this podcast has had millions of downloads and has been ranked in the top 10 in the sports and recreation category on Apple’s iTunes. He also hosts a podcast called THE FORWARD, where Armstrong interviews authors, musicians, athletes, politicians, and influencers from all walks of life.
- Manley Feinberg
More Focus, Courage, and Commitment Manley Feinberg More Focus, Courage, and Commitment Manley is an award-winning international speaker, best-selling author, and business leader with a passion for inspiring others to embrace both leadership and adventure. As a published outdoor adventure photographer and professional musician, Manley brings a unique and engaging perspective to his work, blending business insights with life-changing lessons drawn from his personal and professional experiences. A seasoned leader, Manley served two terms as President of the National Speakers Association (St. Louis chapter) and is an active member of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Leadership Training Staff. His remarkable career includes 11 years with Build-A-Bear Workshop, where his leadership played a pivotal role in growing the company from 40 stores to over 400 worldwide. Under his direction, Build-A-Bear saw revenues soar from $55 million to over $474 million, and achieved a successful IPO on the NYSE. Manley’s leadership also helped Build-A-Bear earn a place on the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® List for four consecutive years. Manley’s approach to leadership combines humor, practicality, and personal experience. He delivers actionable content that empowers organizations to develop their most valuable asset—their employees—by maximizing opportunities and driving measurable results. His engaging and relatable speaking style leaves a lasting impact on audiences, ensuring that the lessons learned will have enduring effects far beyond the presentation. In his inspirational keynotes, Manley blends National Geographic-quality photography with powerful storytelling, sharing captivating lessons from his lifetime of adventure across 25 countries and 400+ outdoor destinations. Whether he’s sharing survival stories from the Himalayas or overcoming communication barriers in Uzbekistan, Manley provides valuable insights that audiences can directly apply to their own challenges and endeavors. His stories inspire individuals and organizations alike to overcome obstacles, embrace change, and move forward with confidence and courage. TOPICS Vertical Leadership in Action: 6 Strategies and 1 Essential Question to Build Trust Beyond Title, Leadership Beyond Position and Commitment Beyond Circumstance Leaving Your Legacy: 5 Principles to Transform Your Customer Experience The Culture Crux: 4 Steps to Increased Engagement, Innovation and Accountability Chaos and Momentum: How to Gain Clarity and Get What’s Important Done Everyday BOOKS World class speaking in action (co-author. #1 amazon Best seller 4x) Reaching your next summit – 7 Vertical Principles for Leading with Impact (forthcoming fall 2015) PAST CLIENTS Energizer State Farm Menards Hdi Ubm Tech Moneta Wealth Management Netlelligent Master Card Cherwell Costco National Geospatial Agency Small Business Monthly Magazine Ceva Animal Health
- Randy Pennington
Positive Results in a World of Uncertainty and Change Randy Pennington Positive Results in a World of Uncertainty and Change Randy Pennington helps leaders achieve positive, lasting results in a world of constant uncertainty and change. With a blend of solid research and hands-on experience, Randy works with leaders and organizations across industries to implement strategies that drive success and sustainable growth. His clients include top companies, associations, universities, and government agencies at local, state, national, and international levels. A best-selling author, Randy has written the award-winning books Results Rule! and Make Change Work , providing invaluable insights on leadership, organizational transformation, and navigating change. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as Fast Company, Entrepreneur, the New York Times, and numerous professional journals. He’s also contributed to Huffington Post and CIO.com and has appeared as a guest commentator on CNN, PBS, Fox News, ABC Radio Network, and the BBC. Randy’s diverse background spans line, staff, and consulting roles, ranging from hourly employee to senior management. He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psychology and has completed post-graduate work in organizational administration and management. Over the course of his career, Randy has served as: Senior Executive at a start-up mental health facility HR Professional in a 25,000-employee government agency CFO of a multi-million-dollar professional services firm Chairman of the Board for a $17 million non-profit and a multi-million-dollar foundation Entrepreneur and Adjunct Professor at Southern Methodist University’s Edwin L. Cox Business Leadership Center, where he has received 25 Teaching Excellence Awards Randy’s unique combination of strategic thinking, hands-on leadership, and academic expertise makes him a sought-after consultant and speaker who helps organizations navigate change and achieve extraordinary results. TOPICS Built to Flourish®: Winning in a World of Upheaval and Uncertainty Make Change Work®: Stay Nimble, Relevant, and Engaged in a World of Constant Change Results Rule!®: Be a Hero in a Changing World Integrity-Driven® Leadership BOOKS Make Change Work: Stay Nimble, Relevant, and Engaged in a World of Constant Change Results Rule! Build a Culture that Blows the Competition Away On My Honor, I Will: The Journey to Integrity-Driven Leadership PAST CLIENTS International Monetary Fund Texas Farm Credit Bank International Right of Way Association Produce Marketing Association DSW Shoes Alabama Power Company Taylor Farms Deli Christus Health System Overhead Door Corporation National Assoc. of Federal Credit Unions Association of General Contractors Ingersoll-Randy
- Jerry Rice
NFL All-Time Leading Receiver San Fransisco 49ers and NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice NFL All-Time Leading Receiver San Fransisco 49ers and NFL Hall of Famer The San Francisco 49ers used their first-round draft pick in 1985 on wide receiver Jerry Rice from little known Mississippi Valley State. It did not take long for that decision to pay huge dividends. Rice gave a glimpse of what was to come when he averaged 18.9 yards per catch on 49 receptions for 927 yards and 3 TDs as a rookie. He also rushed six times and scored one touchdown on the ground. In 1986, Rice recorded a season that began perhaps the finest stretch by any receiver in NFL history. That year, he caught 86 passes for a league-leading 1,570 yards. He also led the NFL in touchdown catches with 15. It marked the first of 11 straight 1,000-yard seasons for Rice who also recorded double-digit receiving touchdown totals in nine of the next 10 seasons. The following year, Rice set the NFL record for touchdown receptions in a season with 22. His first of four seasons with 100 catches came in 1990 when he had an even 100 receptions to lead the NFL in that category. It marked the first of two receiving titles for Rice. He led the NFL in receiving yards six times including an NFL record 1,848 yards in 1995. Rice also led the NFL in touchdown receptions six times. No wide receiver in NFL history played more than Rice’s 20 seasons. By the time he retired after finishing his career with Oakland and Seattle, he was the most prolific wide receiver in NFL history with staggering career totals. He owns virtually every significant receiving mark. Some of the more notable career records include receptions (1,549); receiving yards (22,895 yards); most 1,000-yard receiving seasons (14); total touchdowns (208); and combined net yards (23,546). Rice has a hold on multiple NFL playoff and Super Bowl records. He played in eight conference championships and four Super Bowls. He earned three Super Bowl rings with the 49ers and was named the Most Valuable Player of San Francisco’s Super Bowl XXIII win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Rice, who was named first-team All-Pro 11 consecutive seasons and voted to 13 Pro Bowls, is also a member of the NFL’s All-Decade Teams of the 1980s and 1990s and NFL’s 75th Anniversary Team. BOOKS America’s Game Go Long!: My Journey Beyond the Game and the Fame Rice 50 Years, 50 Moments: The Most
- Kelly McDonald
How To Grow Business With People Not Like You Kelly McDonald How To Grow Business With People Not Like You Kelly McDonald is recognized as one of the nation's leading experts in diversity & inclusion, leadership, marketing, customer experience, and consumer trends. She is the founder of McDonald Marketing, an agency that has been named one of the Top Ad Agencies in the U.S. by Advertising Age and ranked among the fastest-growing independent companies by Inc. Magazine. Kelly's diverse client list includes globally recognized brands such as Toyota, Chubb, NASA, Kimberly-Clark, Nike, Harley-Davidson, Miller-Coors, and Sherwin-Williams. A highly sought-after speaker, Kelly was named one of the “10 Most Booked Speakers in the U.S.” and ranked #1 on Successful Meetings Magazine's list of “25 Hot Speakers. ” She has been featured in CNBC, Forbes, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, Fast Company, and CNNMoney.com , among other media outlets. An accomplished author, Kelly has written four bestselling books on diversity & inclusion, marketing, customer experience, and leadership. Her latest book, “It’s Time to Talk about Race at Work: Every Leader’s Guide to Making Progress on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion” , debuted as the #1 Bestselling Business Book in the U.S. Based in Denver, Kelly enjoys boxing (yes, boxing, not kickboxing) and shopping for high heels when she's not on the road speaking. TOPICS How to Work With & Lead People Not Like You It’s Time to Talk About Race at Work How to Wow, Work With & Win Customers NOW Crafting the Customer Experience for People Not Like You How To Market To People Not Like You BOOKS Crafting the Customer Experience for People Not Like You How To Market To People Not Like You How to Work With & Lead People Not Like You It’s Time to Talk about Race at Work PAST CLIENTS Siemens State Farm Insurance AgFirst Farm Credit Bank Baxter Healthcare True Value Principal Financial Group Harley Davidson Independent Insurance Agents of America Destination Marketing Association International National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Franchise Update Inc. Automotive Specialty Products Alliance
- Mike Muhney
Co-Inventor of ACT! Software, Created the entire CRM Multi-Billion Industry Mike Muhney Co-Inventor of ACT! Software, Created the entire CRM Multi-Billion Industry Not many people can claim to have literally created not only an entire software category but as a result also a global multi-billion dollar industry. Mike is only one of two guys that did, the other being his past business partner. But it wasn’t their original plan, that’s for sure! Failure led them to invent ACT!. Mike started and had a sustained successful career at IBM in the mainframe era upon graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He went on to have an extremely successful entrepreneurial career that began with utter failure that lead to pivoting resulting in unheralded global success. Mike Co-Founded and Co-Invented ACT! software, which created the Contact Management software category and is recognized as the catalyst that started today's multi-billion dollar CRM industry. ACT! is still on the market 37 years after its release with having had over 40 million global users. After Mike and his business partner sold their company to Symantec in 1993, Mike was years later recruited by Deloitte Consulting to be one of their 3 global CRM spokesmen for their CRM practice built around Siebel and other lesser CRM players but while there was recruited to be the EVP & GM of Int'l Operations for Saleslogix, maker of the mid-market CRM product Saleslogix, which was eventually sold to Sage out of the UK. Today Mike is focusing on helping companies and individuals understand how to better connect, construct and cultivate real relationships essential for success. Mike is recognized as a gifted storyteller sharing earned insight along with personal vulnerability from his uniquely storied career. Major themes of his talks include the topic of and issues surrounding CRM, effective business relationship and reputation management, and street-smart contrarian views toward the nature and manner of human dynamics in the business world with a first-hand view of the birth and unfolding momentum that ACT! produced in helping others derive greater relationship-centric value in both their personal and business relationships. Principles taught along with real-world examples provide help illuminating what's involved in distinguishing yourself and your company in an increasingly fast-paced yet increasingly superficial world and gaining that all-important competitive edge. Lastly, tremendous global experience including having lived in Europe for 4 years and having spoken to over 250,000 people spanning 27 countries during his high-tech entrepreneurial career. Not bad for a guy who grew up as a blue-collar kid and the first one in his family to graduate from college. In January 2015 Mike was recognized in a FORBES article as one of the “25 Professional Networking Experts to Watch in 2015” along with such notables as Tim Ferriss and Keith Ferrazzi. Mike lives in the Fort Worth, TX area and enjoys family, friends, golfing and working out. Don't ask him about his golf handicap, though. TOPICS The Principles & Heart That Unleash Your Greatest Value, Impact and Achievement! Framework Principles to Becoming a S.T.A.R.! The Art of Connection – The Best Way to Find, Keep and Satisfy Your Customers! Forget Mission Statements, your Company Needs a Relationship Statement PAST CLIENTS General Motors Headquarters, Television speaker to all of their US Dealerships via satellite TV California Women Conference, Speaker New Yorker Club Conference, Speaker Headquarters invited speaker to entire sales staffs of the following companies: GRiD Computer, Compaq, Toshiba, NEC, Zenith, IBM Canada, Sharp, AT&T TSMA (Transportation Sales & Marketing Association) Conference, Speaker Microsoft Dallas CRM Conference, Speaker ETRE (European Technology Roundtable Exposition) in Cannes France, Keynote, Panel Member Hewlett Packard European Conference in Monaco, Speaker Successful Salesmanship Conference in Cape Town South Africa, Speaker Macworld Conference, San Francisco, Speaker Small Business Computing, both NYC and Los Angeles, Conference Speaker Professional Development Sales & Marketing Conference in Toronto Canada, Keynote Speaker
- Paul Epstein
Former NFL & NBA Executive Paul Epstein Former NFL & NBA Executive Paul Epstein is a former top executive for multiple NFL and NBA teams, a bestselling author, and one of the most sought-after leadership speakers and culture transformation experts. In 2022, he was recognized by SUCCESS Magazine as one of the top thought leaders who get results, alongside industry giants like Tony Robbins, Brené Brown, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Mel Robbins. With nearly 15 years of experience in professional sports, Paul’s leadership helped drive massive growth and success. He played a pivotal role in taking NBA teams from the bottom of the league in revenue to the top two, set Super Bowl revenue records during his time at the NFL league office, and opened a billion-dollar stadium. Paul is also the founder of the San Francisco 49ers Talent Academy, where he earned the nickname “Why Coach” for his ability to help teams and individuals discover and align with their deepest purpose and motivations. As an award-winning keynote speaker, Paul continues to make an impact off stage, delivering leadership development and culture transformation programs to organizations such as Amazon, Disney, Johnson & Johnson, NASA, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Dallas Cowboys. In addition to his speaking and consulting work, Paul is the founder of the Win Monday community, an elite network focused on personal and professional development. He also hosts the Win Monday Podcast, where he interviews high-profile guests, unpacking their strategies for confidence, work-life mastery, and decision-making. When not on stage or hosting his podcast, Paul serves as Chief Impact Officer for PurposePoint and as a Senior Advisor for the Why Institute. His mission is to help individuals and teams perform at their best and achieve their highest potential. Paul is set to release his second book, Better Decisions Faster: Unshakable Confidence when You Need It Most in 2023, continuing to inspire and equip others with the tools to make confident, high-stakes decisions in both their personal and professional lives. TOPICS Playing Offense in Defensive Environments How to Lead with Courage while Navigating Uncertainty How to Make Better Decisions Faster Unshakable Confidence when you Need it Most Building a WHY Centered Culture The 9 WHYs of Building Trust, Collaboration, and Winning Teams Closing the Confidence Gap in Sales The Mindset and Game Plan Required to WIN BOOKS The Power of Playing Offense A Leader’s Playbook for Personal and Team Transformation Better Decisions Faster Unshakable Confidence When You Need it Most PAST CLIENTS Zoom NFL Amazon NBA Pepsi Cardinal Health ADP Johnson & Johnson Google Fairmont Hotels SHRM YPO
- Ross Shafer
Six-Time Emmy-Winning Comedian | TV Host | Business Author | Relevance + Customer Experience Expert Ross Shafer Six-Time Emmy-Winning Comedian | TV Host | Business Author | Relevance + Customer Experience Expert Ross Shafer is a six-time Emmy Award–winning comedian, network TV host, keynote speaker, and business author who has rescued 23 companies from bankruptcy and worked with more than 3,000corporate clients worldwide. On TV, Ross became a household name as host of The Match Game (ABC), The Late Show (FOX), and Almost Live! (NBC). His comedy roots and quick wit make him a trusted emcee and entertainer for Fortune 500 events, where he blends humor with business strategies that drive change. As an author, Ross has written 10 best-selling books, including Nobody Moved Your Cheese, Customer Empathy, No More Customer Friction, and RATTLED. His WOW vs. POW method has revolutionized customer loyalty by showing that eliminating frustrations is more powerful than flashy perks. Ross’s influence extends to Apple, Microsoft, Hilton, Toyota, FedEx, Adobe, Charles Schwab, and United Airlines. In 2025, he joined Joel McHale and Jaylen Brown to honor his longtime friend Bill Nye at Nye’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony—a full-circle moment, since Ross coined the name “Bill Nye the Science Guy.” Whether delivering a funny and unforgettable keynote, hosting your event, or writing game-changing business insights, Ross Shafer helps organizations stay relevant, build loyalty, and thrive through change. TOPICS THE RELEVANT CULTURE: HOW WILL HUMANITY CO-EXIST WITH AI? HOW TO TELL STORIES THAT SELL YOUR BRAND AND HUMANIZE YOUR SALES STORIES WOW-ING CUSTOMERS DOESN’T GUARANTEE LOYALTY BOOKS Are You Relevant? Nobody Moved Your Cheese Customer Empathy No More Customer Friction Absolutely Necessary Behave Like A Start-up Success Is On You Grab More Market Share Customer Shouts Back Cook Like a Stud RATTLED PAST CLIENTS Apple Adobe Microsoft Allstate Insurance Geico Insurance Blue Cross/Blue Shield Hyundai/Kia Ford Motor Co. Toyota Motor Sales Purdue University Ohio State University University of Washington Pfizer Berkshire Hathaway Century 21 Real Estate Honeywell General Electric Johns Manville Boeing Jack in the Box Burger King Precor Fitness Orange Theory Verizon Motorola Sprint Chevron Conoco/Phillips Arbonne Amway
- Eric M. Bailey
Making Brain Science Engaging Eric M. Bailey Making Brain Science Engaging Eric M. Bailey is the bestselling author of The Cure for Stupidity: Using Brain Science to Explain Irrational Behavior and President of Bailey Strategic Innovation Group, one of the fastest-growing human communication consulting firms in the United States. Eric has a diverse set of experiences that includes helping NFL All-Pro Larry Fitzgerald pet a rhinoceros, doing barrel rolls in an F-16, and chatting with LL Cool J on the campus of Harvard University. Honored as Diversity Leader of the Year, Eric is the creator of the Principles of Human Understanding™, a leadership and communication methodology based in brain science and psychology. Eric’s unique style blends fact and emotion and finds ways to appeal to the analytical thinkers, the emotional feelers, and everyone in between. Eric has a unique ability to communicate seemingly complex concepts in practical, easy-to-comprehend ways, aiding in self-awareness and knowledge retention. As a honoree of the prestigious 40 Under 40 award, Eric has been featured on CNN, The Wall Street Journal, Fox Soul, Huffington Post, Forbes, the Consciously Unbiased Podcast, and has helped leaders and teams across the world see common problems from new and different perspectives. Eric works with Google Inc, the US Air Force, Los Angeles County, the City of St. Louis, MO, Phoenix Police Department, and many more. Eric also runs a YouTube series of 2-minute executive lessons called The Walking Meeting ( www.thewalkingmeeting.com ). Eric has a Master’s degree in Leadership and Organizational Psychology from Saint Louis University and is a lifetime learner of human and organizational behavior. When not working or researching, you can find Eric and his wife Jamie racing on their road bikes, being cheered on by their three children. TOPICS Wholly Shift: Completely Changing the Conversation on Diversity, Inclusion, and Priviliege Using Brain Science The Cure for Stupidity: Using Brain Science to Explain Irrational Behavior Not Another Teambuilding! Exploring the Brain Science of Collaboration, Communication, and Culture BOOKS The Cure for Stupidity: Using Brain Science to Explain Irrational Behavior at Work PAST CLIENTS Google Inc. US Air Force Zelle (Early Warning Services) City of Phoenix Police Department Great Rivers Greenway (STL) The Bank & Trust CMG Financial Portland Audubon Society SHRM (AZ, CA, NJ, MO, FL, CT, MA, ME, RI) Workhuman TigerRisk National Conference of State Legislators
- Crystal Washington
Technology Strategist and Futurist Crystal Washington Technology Strategist and Futurist Crystal Washington, CSP, works with organizations that want to leverage technology to boost profits and productivity. As a technology strategist and certified futurist, Crystal simplifies complex topics related to social media, apps, and web technologies, making them easy to understand and accessible to everyone. Crystal’s clients include Fortune 500 companies such as Google, Microsoft, and GE. As a sought-after keynote speaker, she has educated and inspired audiences around the world. Named one of Forbes' 50 Leading Female Futurists, Crystal appears weekly on season two of the Emmy-nominated show Life 2.0. She has also been featured in numerous publications, including Entrepreneur and Bloomberg Businessweek, and is frequently called upon by major television networks as a tech expert. Crystal is the author of One Tech Action and The Social Media Why . TOPICS Futureproof Yourself: Innovate and Thrive in Times of Uncertainty The Future is NOW: Technology & Trends That Will Revolutionize The Future of Work is Here NextGen Relationships for Sales: Technology & Tactics for Business Growth BOOKS The Social Media Why One Tech Action
- Scott Hamilton
Four-time world champion and the 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist men’s figure skating Scott Hamilton Four-time world champion and the 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist men’s figure skating Scott Hamilton is the most recognized male figure skating star in the world, with a career that spans over decades and includes 70 titles, awards, and honors. His accolades include an Emmy Award nomination, induction into the United States Olympic Hall of Fame, and membership in the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame. In 1984, Scott captured the world’s attention with his Olympic Gold medal performance in Sarajevo. Since then, he has continued to inspire audiences as a commentator, performer, producer, and best-selling author. His books include Fritzy Finds a Hat (2020), Finish First: Winning Changes Everything (2018), The Great Eight (2009) , and Landing It (1999). As a speaker and humanitarian, Scott shares his deep passion for figure skating while motivating others with his personal journey. Scott’s resilience is even more remarkable given the challenges he has faced in his personal life. After losing his mother to cancer, he himself became a cancer survivor and a pituitary brain tumor survivor. This life-changing experience led him to become a passionate advocate for cancer research and survivorship. In 2004, Scott founded the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation (Cancer Alliance for Research, Education, and Survivorship), which supports vital research and provides education and resources for cancer patients and survivors. Through initiatives such as Chemocare.com and the 4th Angel Mentoring Program, Scott’s foundation has made a significant impact on cancer care. Scott has also become a leader in the fight against cancer through events like Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer and An Evening with Scott Hamilton & Friends , which raise crucial funds for cancer research. These programs support efforts to develop treatments that can cure cancer while minimizing harm to patients. In addition to his philanthropic work, Scott is the founder of the Scott Hamilton Skating Academy, located at the Ford Ice Centers in Antioch and Bellevue, TN. There, he coaches aspiring skaters, helping them develop their skills and sharing his enduring love for the sport. When he’s not skating or mentoring, Scott enjoys playing golf and spending time with his wife, Tracie, and their four children at their home in Nashville, Tennessee. BOOKS Finish First: Winning Changes Everything The Great Eight: How to Be Happy (Even When You Have Every Reason to be Miserable) Landing It: My Life on And Off the Ice
- Richard Petty
"The King" of NASCAR Richard Petty "The King" of NASCAR Richard Petty, known as "The King" of NASCAR, hails from a legendary racing family. His father, Lee Petty, was a three-time Grand National Cup winner and the founder of Petty Enterprises, a renowned NASCAR racing team. Richard followed in his father's footsteps, joining NASCAR as a driver in 1958, and quickly made a name for himself. In 1959, he earned Rookie of the Year honors after securing nine top-10 finishes, and in 1960, he captured his first victory in Charlotte, North Carolina. Richard’s career reached iconic status after winning his first Daytona 500 in 1964, one of NASCAR's most prestigious events, and claiming his first Grand National Cup. Racing in his signature number 43 blue-and-red car with the STP logo, Petty dominated the 1970s, securing Winston Cup titles in 1971, 1972, 1974, 1975, and 1979. With a career spanning 35 years, Petty holds several NASCAR records, including the most poles and over 700 top-10 finishes in 1,184 career starts. His streak of 513 consecutive starts from 1971 to 1989 remains unmatched. Petty made history as the first driver to win on his 500th race start in 2013. He was inducted into the inaugural class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2010, solidifying his legacy as one of the sport's greatest drivers. Today, Petty continues to be a vital figure in motorsports, overseeing the operations of Petty GMS, a race team competing at NASCAR’s highest level, as well as Petty’s Garage, a high-performance speed shop. Beyond the track, Richard Petty’s cultural influence spans generations. He is famously featured as "The King" in Disney’s Cars and Cars 3, where the character is loosely based on his own racing career. BOOKS NASCAR Cooks with TABASCO Brand Pepper Sauce King Richard I: The Autobiography of America’s Greatest Auto Racer King of the Road “King Richard”: The Richard Petty story
- Doug Flutie
Heisman Winner, CFL Legend, and NFL Trailblazer Doug Flutie Heisman Winner, CFL Legend, and NFL Trailblazer For nearly two decades, Doug Flutie’s name has been synonymous with excellence in college and professional football. Over the years, he has set records and been honored for his hard work on and off the playing field. Named College Football Player of the Year in 1984, Doug set NCAA career records for passing yards and total offense. He will always be most remembered for throwing the Hail Mary Touchdown Pass in the last seconds of a 47-45 upset over Miami in 1984, the same season he won the Heisman Trophy. After college, Doug signed with the USFL’s New Jersey Generals before joining the Chicago Bears. He then went on to play for the New England Patriots and from there, headed north to play in Canada for eight years. He won three Grey Cup championships and was named the Grey cup Most Valuable Player in 1992, 1996 and 1997, the CFL’s Player of the Year in 1996 and is the only player in CFL history to be the Most Outstanding Player of the Year four consecutive times. Doug was also a member of the Canadian All-Star Team six times. In 1998, Doug joined the Buffalo Bills and led them to the playoffs in his first year back in the NFL. He was recognized as the League’s Comeback Player of the Year and appeared in two Pro Bowls. Today, he is with the San Diego Chargers where he has been the clubhouse leader and mentor for the Charger’s starting quarterback, Drew Brees, and many of the team’s younger players. Known as much for his dedication off the gridiron as on, in 1998 Doug announced the establishment of the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for organizations that benefit families with autistic children. His versatility as a player and passion for the game has helped Doug become a favorite choice for programs such as Doug’s Flutie Flakes and appearances on television programs. During the offseason, he has fun playing drums for a rock band aptly named, the Flutie Brothers Band. Doug and his wife, Laurie, have two children, Alexa and Douglas, Jr. TOPICS Overall Sports Leadership Teamwork BOOKS Flutie
- Mike Abrashoff
Former Commander, USS Benfold and Author, It's Your Ship Mike Abrashoff Former Commander, USS Benfold and Author, It's Your Ship At the age of 36, the Navy selected Abrashoff to become Commander of USS Benfold – at the time, the most junior commanding officer in the Pacific Fleet. The immediate challenges that faced him on this underperforming naval warship were staggering: exceptionally low morale, high turnover and unacceptably low performance evaluations. Few thought that this ship could improve. In many ways, the USS Benfold was actually an extreme example of the same problems facing many organizations today. The solution was to establish a system of management techniques that Abrashoff calls The Leadership Roadmap. At the core of his leadership approach on Benfold was a process of replacing command and control with commitment and cohesion, and by engaging the hearts, minds, and loyalties of workers – with conviction and humility. “The most important thing that a captain can do is to see the ship through the eyes of the crew.” According to Abrashoff, The Leadership Roadmap is a practice that empowers every individual to share the responsibility of achieving excellence. “It’s your ship,” he was known to say. His former sailors to this day still remind him of it. By every measure, these principles were able to achieve breakthrough results. Personnel turnover decreased to an unprecedented 1 percent. The rate of military promotions tripled, and the crew slashed operating expenses by 25 percent. Regarded as the finest ship in the Pacific Fleet, Benfold won the prestigious Spokane Trophy for having the highest degree of combat readiness. Most important – this transformation took place with the same crew. What had changed was the ship’s culture and Abrashoff’s leadership style. Abrashoff recounted the leadership lessons from the turnaround of USS Benfold in It’s Your Ship, a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller, with over 800,000 copies sold to date. This extraordinary interest in Abrashoff’s leadership journey and Benfold’s organizational lessons led to two follow-up books – Get Your Ship Together and It’s Our Ship. Those books took readers deeper into ways these principles have been put into action by business leaders in their own organizations. Prior to commanding USS Benfold, Abrashoff served as the Military Assistant to Secretary of Defense William J. Perry. He also helped draft the air defense plan for naval forces in the Persian Gulf in 1990, coinciding with Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait; and served as the Executive Officer of the Cruiser Shiloh, where he deployed to the Persian Gulf in support of United Nations sanctions against Iraq. Mike Abrashoff is the founder of GLS Worldwide, a consulting firm which works with and supports leaders as they address leadership, talent and business challenges within their organization. The firm challenges leaders at all levels to re-imagine their leadership thinking and create new ways to elevate individual, team and organizational performance. TOPICS It’s Your Ship – Achieving Breakthrough Performance It’s Our Ship – Putting the Leadership Roadmap to Work BOOKS It’s Your Ship Get Your Ship Together It’s Our Ship
- Andrew Busch
Moving clients from chaos to confidence Andrew Busch Moving clients from chaos to confidence Andrew Busch is the former 1st Chief Market Intelligence Officer for the U.S. government and economic futurist at AndrewBusch.com . For the CFTC, he was charged with improving and enhancing the government’s understanding of the markets and the economy. His job was to take all the news, information, and data on the economy and markets; and filter it into condensed, easily understood research; and then communicate it to the government and public. Andy provided economic and market briefings to White House, US House, US Senate, the SEC, the Federal Reserve Board and the US Treasury staff on a wide range of issues, including interest rates, inflation, China’s influence on trade, and the impact of technology on the economy. Prior to joining the CFTC, Mr. Busch was CEO and founder of a boutique financial markets and policy research firm, Bering Productions, Inc (BPI). Before BPI, he was the Global Currency and Public Policy Strategist for Bank of Montreal (BMO) in Chicago. He is author of the book “ World Event Trading ” covering large crises, like infectious disease outbreaks and war, and their impact on the economy and markets. Today, he’s a consultant and keynote speaker with a wide range of clients, including chemicals, financial services, energy, real estate, manufacturing, construction and agriculture. TOPICS Future Economy: growth opportunities Future Work: growth opportunities 2024 US Presidential Election: Growth Opportunities BOOKS World Event Trading: How to Analyze and Profit from Today’s Headlines PAST CLIENTS Pacific Life Iowa Bankers American Bankers Association Wipfli NW Farm Credit Services MN Association of Financial Professionals COLBA (Chicago Office Leasing Brokers Association) SIOR (Society of Industrial and Office Realtors)
- Dan Clark
Hall of Fame Speaker Dan Clark delivers his “A.R.T. of Significance” Playbook to elevate sales morale, leadership, and team culture. Dan Clark Hall of Fame Speaker Dan Clark delivers his “A.R.T. of Significance” Playbook to elevate sales morale, leadership, and team culture. Dan Clark is the founder and CEO of an international leadership development company, a high-performance business coach, New York Times bestselling author of 35 books, university professor, a primary contributing author to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, international podcaster, gold record songwriter, and an award-winning athlete who fought his way back from a paralyzing injury that cut short his football career. Dan was inducted into the National Speakers Hall of Fame and has been named one of the Top Ten Motivational Speakers in the world. Dan has spoken to over 6 million people, in all 50 states, in 71 countries, on 6 continents, to more than 6,000 audiences, including most of the Fortune 500 companies, Super Bowl Champions, NASA, and to our Combat Troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, Asia and Africa. Dan has appeared on over 500 television and radio shows including Oprah and Glenn Beck , PBS and NPR, and has been featured in the Mayo Clinic Journal, Forbes, Inc., Success, Entrepreneur, Thought Masters and Millionaire Magazines. Dan’s extraordinary life includes soaring to the edge of space in a U-2 spy plane, flying fighter jets with the Air Force Thunderbirds, racing automobiles at Nürburgring and sailboats in Australia, serving on the Olympic Committee, carrying the Olympic torch in the Winter Games, and keynoting the United Nations World Congress. Dan was named an Outstanding Young Man of America and has since received the United States Presidential Medal presented by President Ronald Reagan, the United States Distinguished Service Medal presented by the U.S. Department of Defense, the prestigious Air Force American Spirit Award, and was named Utah Father of the Year! TOPICS “PERSPECTIVE LEADERSHIP”Unlocking Cultural Excellence through the Power of Perspective! “THE ABC’S OF SAFETY”a refresher course on Attitude, Burnout, Complacency & Distractions! “STORY SELLING”Unleash the Power of Storytelling and Unleash Your Communication Skills! “THE A.R.T. OF SIGNIFICANCE”Achieving a Level Beyond Success! BOOKS Story Selling The A.R.T. of Significance The A.R.T. of Significant Leadership Chicken Soup for the College Soul Speak Like a Pro PAST CLIENTS Kings Hawaiian Krispy Kreme Miracle Ear UBS Financial GE Capital Wells Fargo Charles Schwab Honeywell 3M Big-O Tires Coldwell Banker Keller Williams
- Katty Kay
Lead Anchor, BBC World News America and Co-author, Womenomics Katty Kay Lead Anchor, BBC World News America and Co-author, Womenomics Katty Kay is the lead anchor of BBC World News America. Before assuming this role, she served as the BBC’s Washington Correspondent beginning in 2002. Kay’s career with the BBC started in 1990 in Zimbabwe, where she began filing radio reports for BBC World Service. She also covered the end of apartheid in South Africa. She later worked as a BBC correspondent in London and Tokyo, where she reported on significant events such as the Kobe earthquake and the Japanese economic recession. In 1996, Kay moved to Washington, DC, initially stepping away from broadcast journalism to join The Times' Washington bureau, before returning to the BBC in 2002. From Washington, Kay has covered a wide range of American and global issues, including U.S. elections, the White House, Congress, Wall Street, global economies, and world conflicts. One of her most poignant memories as a journalist was reporting on the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. She was at the Pentagon just 20 minutes after a hijacked plane struck the building, and she vividly remembers interviewing soldiers who were visibly shaken by the attack. Kay is a frequent guest commentator on NBC’s Meet the Press, The Chris Matthews Show, MSNBC’s Morning Joe, and other platforms. She co-authored the New York Times bestseller Womenomics: Write Your Own Rules for Success with Claire Shipman, which explores how women can create a professional life that meets their personal needs and contributes to more profitable companies and happier employees. Kay grew up in various parts of the Middle East, where her father served as a British diplomat. She studied modern languages at Oxford and briefly worked for the Bank of England before embarking on her journalism career. Fluent in French and Italian, she also speaks what she describes as “rusty Japanese.” She is married to Tom Carver, a strategic risk consultant, and they live in Washington, DC with their four children. TOPICS Washington and Your Future: A Political Primer for Business Leaders Womenomics – A New Path to Business Success American in the Global Century BOOKS Womenomics PAST CLIENTS American Association for Justice Deloitte Goldman, Sachs & Co. Microsoft Corporation Red Hat, Inc. Trinity University BAE Systems, Inc. Deutsche Bank JP Morgan National Business Travel Association Retail Industry Leaders Association Women in Public Finance
- Jim Craig
“Miracle on Ice” Olympic Gold Medalist Hockey Goalie Jim Craig “Miracle on Ice” Olympic Gold Medalist Hockey Goalie Jim Craig (born May 31, 1957, North Easton, Massachusetts) is an American ice hockey goaltender best known for his role in the historic 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. As a member of the U.S. hockey team, Craig helped lead the Americans to an unexpected gold medal victory in what became known as the "Miracle on Ice." The victory remains one of the most stunning upsets in Olympic history, with Craig, who started every game in goal, playing a pivotal role in the team’s success. At the start of the Olympics, the U.S. team was ranked 7th out of 12, while the Soviet Union, widely considered the best team in the world, were the overwhelming favorites. The Soviets had dominated international hockey, defeating an NHL All-Star team the previous year and thrashing the Americans 10–3 in an exhibition just days before the tournament. Between 1956 and 1992, the Soviet Union had an iron grip on the Olympic gold medal, with only the American teams of 1960 and 1980 breaking that dominance when the Winter Games were held in the U.S. Before joining the U.S. national team, Craig was an All-American goaltender at Boston University. Throughout the 1980 Olympic tournament, he played nearly every minute of every game. Craig helped the U.S. team pull off a series of surprising victories, often conceding an early goal but then shutting down opponents in the final period. In the semifinals, the Americans faced the Soviet Union, where Craig made 39 saves and weathered a relentless barrage of shots in the closing minutes. The U.S. defeated the Soviets 4–3 and went on to beat Finland 4–2 in the gold medal game. One of the most enduring images of the 1980 Games is Craig, draped in the American flag, searching the stands for his widowed father to share the victorious moment. BOOKS Gold Medal Strategies
- Frank Supovitz
President & Chief Experience Officer Frank Supovitz President & Chief Experience Officer Frank Supovitz has been at the helm of some of the world’s most prestigious and most widely viewed sports and entertainment events for more than 35 years. As the Senior Vice President of Events for the NFL from 2005 to 2014, he oversaw the management of events including the Super Bowl and the NFL Draft, among many other marquee events. Frank also led the NHL’s event team for 13 years, responsible for the NHL All-Star Weekend, Stanley Cup, and international competitions in Europe and Japan. He co-developed the NHL’s first outdoor stadium game with the Edmonton Oilers in 2003, the predecessor of the league’s highly-successful NHL Winter Classic. Supovitz founded Fast Traffic in 2014, an event management and consulting company with clients that have included the Indy 500, Pro Football Hall of Fame, Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer, the National Rugby League (Australia), and the South Street Seaport in New York City. Frank is an adjunct professor at Adelphi University and the author of five books, including What to Do When Things Go Wrong: A 5-Step Guide to Planning for and Surviving the Inevitable – and Coming Out Ahead (2019) and The Sports Event Management & Marketing Playbook, 3rd edition (2024). He received an honorary doctorate in Sports, Event, and Entertainment Management from Johnson & Wales University in 2003, and appeared as “The Boss” in the truTV series NFL Full Contact in 2010, as well as in a cameo role as himself in Ivan Reitman’s 2014 film Draft Day. TOPICS What To Do When Things Go Wrong: The 10 Mega-Truths of Crisis Management BOOKS What To Do When Things Go Wrong The Sports Event Management & Marketing Playbook, 3rd ed. PAST CLIENTS T.I.AA Payward, Inc. Liberty Mutual Time Warner Howard Hughes Corporation Pennybacker Capital Continuity Insights Management Conference C.I.O/C.I.S.O Perspectives Conference Vancouver Board of Trade BizBash Sports Summit Boston Celtics Pharmacy Guild of Australia





























