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  • Kim Alexis

    Supermodel, actress, fitness expert, and author Kim Alexis Supermodel, actress, fitness expert, and author Kim Alexis is part of an elite team of models who rose to the “supermodel” status in the 1980s. Kim’s career started when she was discovered at 17 by a Buffalo agency. She moved to New York City and received a remarkably positive response from the fashion and beauty industries. Although she did runway and fashion, she became known for her work in beauty. Kim could be seen repeatedly on magazine covers and had over 500 worldwide including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan and set the cover record for Glamour. In 1983, she replaced Lauren Hutton as the face of Revlon’s Ultima II line becoming one of the most recognizable faces in America. She rounded out her supermodel status by being in the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue for 6 years, which made perfect sense, given Kim is the picture of a healthy woman and grew up swimming in Lockport. Kim transitioned into broadcasting by becoming the fashion editor for Good Morning America. She then went on to host TV shows such as “Your Mind and Body”, “Healthy Kids” and “Ticket to Adventure”. Her most recent hosting roles include “Food Quest” on Food Network and “She’s Got the Look” on TV Land. She also appeared in the film “ Holy Man ”, alongside Eddie Murphy. Kim also had a memorable guest spot in the final episode of the sitcom “ Cheers ”, titled “One for the Road”. Most recently she was one of the models featured in HBO’s documentary “About Face”, which draws a parallel conversation with supermodels of many different generations about what made them relevant and what has changed since then. After her modeling career, using what she learned from the business, she also penned books. These include the nonfiction book “A Model for a Better Future” and a fictional book, “Beauty to Die For”. She has written five eBooks: “Modeling: How to be Discovered”, “Lean Clean”, “Cheat Eat”, “My Healthy Thyroid” and “Dieting Lessons” which can be found on Amazon. Known for her background in sports and her continuous healthy life style, Kim has run in 8 marathons and was a spokesperson for the New York City Marathon and the More magazine half marathon. She has been associated with the promotion of several health products, supplements and causes. Kim never let herself be misled by other people’s influences and remained true to her upbringing and beliefs. An outspoken conservative, Alexis was one of the few models of her time who refused to pose for nude pictures and has always advocated for a healthy, spiritually connected way of living. She raised three sons and continues to work toward her life goal: encouraging other women to be their best in all areas of life. BOOKS Lean Clean A Model for a Better Future With a Little Luck Cheat Eat Dieting Lessons Modeling: How to be Discovered My Thyroid Journey

  • Omékongo Dibinga

    Finding Common Ground in Uncommon Times Omékongo Dibinga Finding Common Ground in Uncommon Times Dr. Omékongo Dibinga, PhD, CSP, known as The UPstander, is a dynamic motivational speaker, trilingual poet, TV talk show host, rapper, and professor at American University, where he teaches cross-cultural communication. With a mission to inspire people worldwide to stand up against injustice, he has impacted millions through his powerful words, performances, and leadership initiatives. As a recognized Urban Music Award winner, Omékongo’s work has been praised by literary icon Nikki Giovanni for its ability to blend the old and the new in unique and exciting ways. His poetry collection, From the Limbs of My Poetree , was hailed by Essence Magazine as “remarkable” and “insightful,” touching deep emotional and spiritual places. Omékongo was also one of five international recipients of the inaugural CNN iReport Spirit Award, receiving over 1,000,000 views on CNN.com . Omékongo’s writings and performances have reached millions of people worldwide, appearing in publications like O Magazine and across major TV and radio networks including CNN, BET, BBC, and NPR. He has been featured alongside Sheryl Crow, Angelina Jolie, Norah Jones, Mos Def, and many others, while sharing the stage with luminaries like Wyclef Jean, OutKast, and NFL great Aaron Rodgers. His global impact extends to sharing his message in over 20 countries across three continents, delivering empowering speeches before the United Nations and collaborating with the U.S. State Department to conduct youth leadership training overseas. He’s spoken at TEDx, Harvard, Morehouse, and Princeton, among many other prestigious venues. Omékongo earned his M.A. in Law & Diplomacy from The Fletcher School, followed by a Ph.D. in International Education Policy at The University of Maryland, where his dissertation explored the global impact of hip-hop, particularly focusing on Jay-Z. His work with the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Teaching Diverse Students Initiative and as a lead Teaching Assistant to Dr. Michael Eric Dyson at Georgetown University further solidified his commitment to education, diversity, and leadership. As a consultant and motivational speaker, Omékongo empowers organizations, associations, and institutions, inspiring audiences to take action for social change and leadership. His 1,000,000 Youth Campaign has already impacted over 100,000 youth globally, and he has partnered with Intel to remove conflict minerals from their computer processors, in support of peace in the Congo. Omékongo has authored 7 books, produced 7 fusion music and motivational CDs, and a DVD. His motivational book G.R.O.W. Towards Your Greatness! 10 Steps to Living Your Best Life has received praise from renowned speakers like Willie Jolley. His latest book, The UPstander’s Guide to an Outstanding Life, is a life balance guide for students. TOPICS Finding Common Ground in Uncommon Times G.R.O.W.Towards Your Greatness Leveraging and Embracing Diversity in the Workplace Antiracism & You Be An UPstander, Not a BYstander Elevating the Black Male S.E.E.D.S Students Engaged on Every Day Success BOOKS G.R.O.W. Towards Your Greatness (companion book for the Keynote) The UPstander’s Guide to an OUTstanding Life From the Limbs of My Poetree Lies About Black People; How to Combat Racist Stereotypes and Why it Matters (Publish July 2023) PAST CLIENTS Synchrony Bank Global Diversity Network Symposium California Assoc. of Student Leaders Maryland SHRM Annual Conference Raymond James Inter-American Defense College National Assoc. of Secondary School Principals Greenpeace FHL Bank Brown University Fidelity Investments International Studies Learning Center Microsoft

  • Chaunte Lowe

    4 -Time Olympian, Breast Cancer Survivor & Health Equity Advocate Chaunte Lowe 4 -Time Olympian, Breast Cancer Survivor & Health Equity Advocate CHAUNTE’ LOWE is the story of determination, perseverance, and strength. Not only is Lowe a mother of three, a wife, and a finance professional, but she is also a professional athlete, an American Record Holder, a four-time Olympian, a three-time World Championship medalist, and a 12-time U.S. National Champion. This four-time Olympian’s impressive journey began as a sophomore at Georgia Tech, when she made her first Olympic appearance. Her ambition both on the field and in the classroom demonstrated an unparalleled drive, even among the Institute’s top student-athletes. Chaunte is a world champion who has broken the American record three times and is the current American record holder in both indoor and outdoor high jump. She’s competed in four Olympic Games and aspired to add a fifth to her remarkable career. Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Chaunte has used her personal experiences to raise awareness for breast cancer research, early detection, and eradication. In 2019, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Despite the diagnosis, she continued to train through surgeries and chemotherapy, staying competitive for the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Throughout this time, she remained determined to use her platform to bring attention to breast cancer. “The best gift I can give with my life is helping others find beauty in their own lives,” she says.

  • Walter Bond

    “Mr. Accountability” Walter Bond “Mr. Accountability” Like you, Walter Bond knows what it’s like to be discounted by everyone around you. To run up against seemingly insurmountable challenges, and to have moments when it felt like those challenges were winning. But Walter recognized a single truth that changed everything: Peak performers have no excuses for failure, only reasons for success. After several stellar high school seasons, Walter earned a scholarship to play for the University of Minnesota basketball team. As an average college player who was overlooked by the NBA, Walter tapped into a peak performance mindset, changed his work ethic, and found himself a professional NBA basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks. Now retired from the NBA, Walter Bond shares stories, lessons, and motivation that spark superstars to success, move middle players into action, and excite attendees to come back for more. When Walter is on the platform, you will have the knowledge and skills you need to take the proven path away from the pack and into the Peak performer’s spotlight. Make your goals a reality. Motivate your team with powerful content from a power speaker—Walter Bond. 7 Reasons Walter is Right For Your Next Event: 1 – Your audience will be instantly engaged by Walter’s big personality and infectious enthusiasm 2 – You feel good knowing that Walter has delivered keynotes to millions of attendees around the world 3 – When you need action, power, and motivation all rolled up into one – Walter’s got your covered. 4 – Your audience will laugh, learn, and be instantly excited by Walter’s compelling stories and powerful points. 5 – You feel confident in your choice when you discover that Walter has wowed the media as the host of Food Network’s – Giving You The Business. 6 – Your attendees will benefit from a high-powered speaker with over 25 years of teamwork and professional experience when Walter is on the platform. 7 – When you want your “been there done that” attendees to say, “WOW! What an experience”, then Walter is your only choice. TOPICS Bigger. Faster. Stronger. The Proven Path to Break Away from the Pack. When Gold Ain’t Good Enough How Top Performers become Epic Achievers Suck it up. Get Tough. What Peak Performers do that Others Don’t All Buts StinkThere are No Excuses for Success Team Chemistry Trumps Individual Talent How Exceptional Leaders Deliver Unprecedented Wins BOOKS All Buts Stink! The Off-Season for Financial Advisors PAST CLIENTS 3M Administaff Aegon Allianz Life Ameriprise American Car Care Centers American Family Insurance American Farm Bureau Association of Legal Administrators Athena Health Baxter Pharmaceuticals BF&M Insurance Blue Cross/Blue Shield Bridgestone/ Firestone Cargill Carlson Wagonlit Travel Cayman National Bank Cellmark Paper Coldwell Banker Burnet Continental Tires Continental Tires Country Financial DirectBuy Dow AgriSciences DEA Express Employment Professionals Fairview Health Systems Farm Bureau Federation Farm Bureau Insurance Fifth Third Bank Fish and Richardson, PC Gilead Sciences GlaxoSmithKline Growmark GSA HSBC IHC Health Solutions Integrasys IRS Knife River LaFarge Construction Medica Medtronic Mosaic NAHRO NASA NBA National Assn of Realtors Northwestern Energy Prudential Realtors Questar Capital Re/Max RiverSource RSM McGladrey Skyward State Farm Insurance Sterling Jewelers TDS Telecom Thorp Reed Armstrong, PC Transamerica Capital TrusWall ULine Unitrin US Oil Company Wellcare Wells Fargo Zurich

  • Joe Theismann

    NFL Quarterback, Entrepreneur, Broadcaster and Author Joe Theismann NFL Quarterback, Entrepreneur, Broadcaster and Author Joe Theismann is a 12-year NFL veteran who played in 163 consecutive games from 1974 to 1985 for the Washington Redskins. He holds several Redskins records, including passing yardage (25,206), completions (2,044), and attempts (3,602). Joe was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and Pro Bowl MVP, leading the Washington Redskins to a 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII. In 1982, Joe was named the NFL’s Man of the Year for his community service and dedication to the health and welfare of children. The following year, he won the NFL's Most Valuable Player Award, leading the Redskins to a second consecutive Super Bowl appearance. Joe's career came to an abrupt end in 1985 when he suffered a severely broken leg during a Monday Night Football game against the New York Giants, which was broadcast nationally. In 2003, Joe was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, and in 2013, he received the Walter Camp Football Foundation “Distinguished American” Award. Joe was selected in the fourth round of the 1971 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins and in the 39th round of the 1971 Major League Baseball Draft by the Minnesota Twins. After negotiations with the Dolphins fell through, Joe chose to sign with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League (CFL). In his rookie year, he quarterbacked the Argonauts to a 1-4 record, led the league's Eastern Conference in passing statistics, and helped the team secure a berth in the Grey Cup championship game in Vancouver, British Columbia, against the Calgary Stampeders (59th Grey Cup). During the 1971 season, Joe completed 148 of 278 passes for 2,440 yards and 17 touchdowns. His 1972 season was shortened by injury, but he still completed 77 of 127 passes for 1,157 yards and 10 touchdowns. In his final CFL season in 1973, Joe completed 157 of 247 passes for 2,496 yards, along with 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He was named an All-Star in both 1971 and 1973. In 1974, the Washington Redskins acquired Joe’s rights from the Dolphins in exchange for the team's first-round draft pick in 1976. Joe left the CFL and joined the Redskins, initially serving as the team’s punt returner. In 1978, he became the Redskins' starting quarterback, succeeding Billy Kilmer. In 1982, Joe led the Redskins to their first championship in 40 years, defeating the Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII. In 1985, Joe broadcasted Super Bowl XIX alongside Frank Gifford and Don Meredith, becoming only the second player to do commentary on a Super Bowl telecast while still an active player. He then worked as a color commentator for regional CBS NFL coverage in 1986 and 1987. From 1988 to 2005, Joe provided commentary for ESPN's Sunday Night Football, and in 2006, he joined ESPN's Monday Night Football coverage. In 2009, Joe analyzed game films on NFL Network’s Playbook. On January 9, 2010, he served as color commentator, alongside former head coach Joe Gibbs, for the AFC Wild Card Game between the New York Jets and the Cincinnati Bengals. Joe also co-hosted NFL games on NBC in 2010 and co-hosted NFL Network’s No Huddle in 2011. Joe’s popularity and charisma have led to numerous TV and movie opportunities. His acting credits include B.J. and the Bear (1981), Cannonball Run II (1984), The Man from Left Field (1993), and Hallmark’s Love on the Sidelines (2015). BOOKS The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Understanding Football Like a Pro The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Football Theismann How to Be a Champion Every Day: Timeless Keys to Success Quarterbacking The Official Illustrated History of Fighting Irish Football

  • Anusha Wijeyakumar

    Compassionate Leadership Expert, Best selling Author, Professor and Woman in STEM Anusha Wijeyakumar Compassionate Leadership Expert, Best selling Author, Professor and Woman in STEM Anusha is the Wellness Consultant for Hoag Hospital, one of the top-rated hospitals in the USA, where she leads integrative medicine initiatives and implements mindfulness, meditation, and sleep hygiene practices in various programs. These include maternal mental health, early risk assessment for breast and ovarian cancer prevention, breast cancer survivorship, and behavioral sleep medicine. Anusha is particularly passionate about her work in STEM and is one of the first to create a meditation program used in clinical research at Hoag Hospital. Anusha is also an Adjunct Professor and Inclusive Excellence Faculty Fellow at San Diego State University, where she teaches at the Weber Honors College on the intersection of wellness and social justice. DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) and collective care are central to her work, and she serves on the SDSU HSI Campus Advisory Committee, focusing on student success and academic outcomes for the Latinx/e student population. A sought-after motivational speaker and thought leader on compassionate leadership, Anusha is an official SXSW speaker. She has delivered keynotes at health and wellness conferences, universities, Fortune 500 companies, and corporate events across North America and the UK. With over 15 years of international senior management experience, she has worked with Fortune 50, 100, and 500 global corporations, social justice non-profits, and private companies on three continents. Anusha holds a BA, MA, a Diploma in Mentoring, a Certified Professional Life Coach qualification, and is an E-RYT Yoga Teacher and Chopra Certified Ayurvedic Health Coach. Her first book, Meditation with Intention: Quick & Easy Ways to Create Lasting Peace, was released in January 2021 by Llewellyn Worldwide. TOPICS Mindful Resilience From Chaos to Calmness Quiet Quitting to Quiet Thriving Beyond the Checkbox in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Leading with Purpose BOOKS Meditation with Intention released Jan 2021 PAST CLIENTS Fairmont Hotels Ayco Luxury Real Estate Companies of the World YPO University of California, Irvine Pursue Healthcare California School Public Relations Hoag Hospital Chopra Global Pacific Life Cigna Healthcare Living Beyond Breast Cancer

  • Simon T. Bailey

    Shift Your Brilliance Simon T. Bailey Shift Your Brilliance Simon T. Bailey believes you are meant to share your brilliance. His passion and purpose are unlocking that ability in a way that ignites sustainable transformation. He understands the pressure leaders and high performers are facing in the midst of uncertainty and equips them with simple, easy-to-implement strategies to accelerate results. Recognized by Washington Speakers Bureau as one of the 12 business speakers who embolden audiences to think big and lead with purpose, and by BigSpeak! as one of the top sales kickoff speakers, Simon knows how to challenge an audience and provide them with tangible takeaways and sustainable action steps. LinkedIn Learning features three of his online courses that reach professionals in 100 countries. Simon has more than 30 years' experience in the hospitality industry, including serving as sales director for Disney Institute, and has worked with more than 1,800 organizations in 50 countries. He has been named one of the top 25 people who will help you reach your business and life goals by SUCCESS magazine, joining a list that includes Brené Brown, Tony Robbins, and Oprah Winfrey. His Goalcast video, released on Facebook, has over 90 million views worldwide. When he is not working, Simon serves as a board member for the U.S. Dream Academy and Orlando Health Foundation. TOPICS Leading with SPARK: Create a Culture Where Everyone Matters SPARK: Act like an Employee and Think like a CEO Act like an Employee and Think like a CEO Be the Spark: Five Platinum Service Principles for Creating Customers for Life BOOKS Brilliant Living Shift Your Brilliance Release Your Brilliance Brilliant Service is the Bottom Line Simon Says… Dream: Live a Passionate Life PAST CLIENTS Raytheon Prudential Chevron The Conference Board Amerigas Nationwide Aramark Setar Subway Wells Fargo Merck-Serono Verizon

  • Allison Massari

    Extraordinary Triumph After Burning Alive Allison Massari Extraordinary Triumph After Burning Alive Allison Massari is recognized as one of North America's Top 10 Best Motivational Speakers by Meetings & Conventions Magazine for three consecutive years. She was also honored as a main platform speaker at the Million Dollar Round Table conference, presenting to an audience of 8,600. As an international keynote speaker, executive coach, and visual artist, Allison has made it her mission to ignite vitality, boost morale, and inspire confidence across the globe. Her clients describe her as “riveting,” “heartwarming,” “thought-provoking,” “bold,” and “life-changing.” Allison's path to success was forged through overcoming extraordinary personal tragedies. In 1998, she survived a near-fatal car crash at 60 mph, leaving her trapped and severely burned. Just three years later, she was struck again by another high-speed collision, which resulted in a traumatic brain injury. Her long journey from these devastating events to healing and self-mastery has shaped her unique approach to resilience and recovery. Today, she lives a life beyond anything she ever imagined—and she’s committed to sharing her story to inspire change in others and in the organizations that support them. Through the power of storytelling, Allison weaves humor, surprise, and raw, heart-wrenching experiences to engage audiences. Her transformative journey allows listeners to understand the answers to some of life’s most profound questions and provides them with practical tools to manage change and adversity. Her deeply moving talks equip audiences with a new vision for overcoming challenges and thriving in the face of difficulty. As Allison shares, “The same internal fire and ‘command of self’ that I needed to heal my life is exactly what has fueled my professional success. Science shows that our resilience and sense of well-being are directly linked to the bottom line. This is the type of personal and professional development I embrace fully and love to teach.” In addition to her work as a speaker and coach, Allison is an accomplished visual artist, having created, placed, and sold fine art to international collectors and Fortune 500 companies like General Mills and Lockheed Martin for over 25 years. Her artwork is featured in the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, Florida, and serves as a backdrop to her keynotes, adding a powerful and unique visual element to her presentations. Allison’s presentations offer practical takeaways that empower audiences to: Revive hope and confidence through a powerful story of overcoming adversity and the indomitable power of the human spirit. Navigate challenging situations and foster understanding with even the most difficult people. Raise the bar for a healthier, more peaceful work environment. Enhance team-building by recognizing the impact of human connection and the life-saving power of community. Leverage the transformative power of humor to manage stress and tension. Shift perspective to build a positive outlook despite seemingly impossible outcomes. Cultivate resilience with a simple, effective tool to overcome feelings of defeat, grief, and sorrow. Bring kindness and humanity to others in an instant, fostering stronger relationships. Stay determined in “impossible situations,” proving that resilience and tenacity can lead to success. Master self-control by maintaining integrity even when faced with betrayal or adversity. Take powerful actions when addressing everyday human challenges. Demystify myths preventing true well-being and success. Shift mindset using the power of the mind to change perspective instantly. TOPICS Ignite the Fire Within – The Art of Exceptional Self-Leadership Triumph over Tragedy – Success through Change, Adversity, and Tough Times The Survival Guide to Being Human and the Art of Happiness BOOKS “Ignited” – (Audio Book) PAST CLIENTS Million Dollar Round Table Siemens Healthcare Eli Lilly & Company Onyx Pharmaceuticals GE Healthcare IT HIMSS and CHIME Teva Pharmaceutical Industries LTD. LPL Finacial CA Bankers Association ARMA International Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP) MADD Canada

  • Mike Eruzione

    Miracle on Ice Hero, Olympic Gold Medalist, Leader, Inspiring Teams to Triumph Through Leadership and Unity Mike Eruzione Miracle on Ice Hero, Olympic Gold Medalist, Leader, Inspiring Teams to Triumph Through Leadership and Unity Career Highlights - 1980 Winter Olympics - "Miracle on Ice" Mike Eruzione is best known for his leadership as the captain of the U.S. Men's Ice Hockey Team that pulled off one of the most incredible upsets in sports history—winning the gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. The team's victory is famously known as the "Miracle on Ice" after defeating the heavily favored Soviet Union team in a historic match. Eruzione's famous goal in the game against the Soviet Union, which gave the U.S. a 4-3 lead, is etched in Olympic lore. Captain of the U.S. Hockey Team (1980) As captain, Eruzione led a team of amateur players, including college students and young pros, to an unexpected victory over some of the world's best hockey teams. Eruzione’s leadership and determination were key to the success of the team. Post-Olympic Career After his Olympic triumph, Eruzione went on to have a brief career in professional hockey, playing in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Providence Reds and Binghamton Dusters. However, his focus shifted more to speaking engagements, media appearances, and community outreach. College Hockey Eruzione played college hockey for Boston University, where he was a standout player and contributed significantly to the team’s success during his time there. Legacy and Impact - Miracle on Ice Mike Eruzione's goal against the Soviet Union remains one of the most iconic moments in American sports history. The team's story was immortalized in the 2004 Disney film "Miracle," where Eruzione was portrayed by actor Patrick O'Brien Demsey. Public Speaking & Advocacy After his athletic career, Eruzione became a motivational speaker, sharing his story of leadership, teamwork, and overcoming adversity. He works to inspire people of all ages, particularly youth, with his story of perseverance, unity, and dedication. Community Engagement Eruzione is heavily involved in charitable work, particularly in youth sports. He’s an advocate for helping young athletes develop leadership and teamwork skills, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of hockey fans and athletes. Awards & Recognitions Inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001. Named to the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame in 2002. Received numerous accolades and honors for his role in the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team's victory. Eruzione’s impact extends far beyond his on-ice achievements, as his leadership in the face of adversity continues to inspire individuals and teams around the world. TOPICS Leadership & Teamwork Overcoming Adversity & Resilience Success & Achievement Sports & Motivation The Miracle on Ice BOOKS The Making of a Miracle: The Untold Story of the Captain of the 1980 Gold Medal–Winning U.S. Olympic Hockey Team.

  • Chad Hennings

    Nine-Year Veteran of the Dallas Cowboys, Air Force Thunderbolt Pilot & Author Chad Hennings Nine-Year Veteran of the Dallas Cowboys, Air Force Thunderbolt Pilot & Author Chad Hennings is a highly accomplished individual whose life is defined by excellence, service, and leadership. Over the course of his nine-year NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys, Chad achieved the pinnacle of professional football, winning three Super Bowl Championships. His commitment to resilience and teamwork extended beyond the gridiron as he went on to complete forty-five combat missions flying the A-10 Warthog with the U.S. Air Force. In addition to his military and athletic success, Chad has built a successful career in commercial real estate and is a sought-after speaker. He has shared his insights and experiences with some of the most prestigious audiences worldwide, including Fortune 500 companies, U.S. government agencies, and leading nonprofits. His message, centered around leadership, integrity, and resilience, has resonated with thousands and continues to inspire professionals across industries. Chad’s impact extends into the Dallas/Fort Worth community, where he is a passionate philanthropic leader. He dedicates his time and energy to organizations focused on supporting at-risk families and veterans. As the founder of Wingmen Ministries, Chad is committed to encouraging discipleship and mentorship among men, helping them grow in their faith and leadership. In his keynotes, Chad challenges audiences to think deeply about the values that guide them. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: it’s not what we do that defines us, but who we are that determines what we do. Chad and his wife, Tammy, are the proud parents of Chase and Brenna. They reside in Flower Mound, Texas, where they continue to be active in their community and in inspiring others to lead with purpose and integrity. BOOKS Forces of Character: Conversations about Building a Life of Impact Rules of Engagement: Finding Faith and Purpose in a Disconnected World It Takes Commitment PAST CLIENTS Interstate Batteries Herff Jones Texas Health Resources CiCi’s Pizza Service Nation Flowserve BE&K Industrial Sherwin Williams Citigroup Kimberly-Clark Salvation Army (multiple) Overhead Door Rotary District

  • David Burkus

    Helping teams do their best work ever David Burkus Helping teams do their best work ever One of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever. He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USA Today, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR , and CBS This Morning . Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked multiple times as one of the world’s top business thought leaders. A sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries, including Google, Ernst & Young, Fidelity, Viacom, and even NASA. A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University. He lives outside of Tulsa with his wife and their two boys. TOPICS INNOVATION IS A TEAM SPORT: The Science of Creative Collaboration BEST TEAM EVER: The Surprising Science Of High-Performing Teams CLICK: Why Some Teams Collaborate Fast And Others Just Collapse THE TRUST LOOP: The Hidden Pattern That Builds (Or Breaks) Your Team BOOKS Best Team Ever: The Surprising Science of High-Performing Teams Leading From Anywhere: The Essential Guide to Managing Remote Teams Friend of a Friend: Understanding the Hidden Networks That Can Transform Your Life and Your Career Under New Management: How Leading Organizations Are Upending Business As Usual The Myths of Creativity: The Truth About How Innovative Companies and People Generate Great Ideas PAST CLIENTS Ernst & Young NASA Fidelity Viacom Rocket Mortgage Allianz PepsiCo Sage Lockheed Martin TD Bank Adobe Johnson & Johnson

  • Jeff Martinovich

    When Not If: A CEO’s guide to Overcoming Adversity Jeff Martinovich When Not If: A CEO’s guide to Overcoming Adversity Jeff Martinovich built a billion-dollar investment firm from scratch, only to watch it collapse after being wrongly indicted. Standing firm in his beliefs, he rejected three federal plea offers and demanded a trial against the United States Government. Despite being convicted and sentenced to 14 years in a violent, 4,000-man prison, Jeff refused to give up. Ruined, broke, and desperate, he taught himself federal criminal law, represented himself in court, and successfully reversed the court’s decisions five times. He even removed two federal judges and made it home seven years earlier than expected, surviving one miracle after another. A U.S. Air Force First Gulf War veteran, Forbes Books-featured author, and writer of a #1 Amazon bestseller, Jeff now shocks and educates audiences on the trench warfare needed to survive—and thrive—through strength, resilience, and intelligence. His mission is to teach CEOs, business leaders, and entrepreneurs the hard-earned lessons he learned so that they can avoid the pitfalls he never saw coming, and better protect their companies and families from dangers they might never expect. In his keynote, Cautionary Tale: This Could Happen to You Next Tuesday , Jeff shares the harrowing journey of defending his innocence against a government system determined to destroy his life. He offers invaluable lessons from his fight for freedom and justice, warning that even the most successful leaders must be prepared for life’s unexpected “black swan” events. He emphasizes that everyone will eventually face overwhelming challenges, and by preparing now—embracing fear, risk, and resilience—leaders will be equipped to turn disadvantages into advantages when the time comes. While Jeff’s talks are both wildly entertaining and deeply personal, they are also packed with actionable lessons and insights that leaders can apply immediately, no matter their business or personal station in life. TOPICS IT’S NOT A MATTER OF IF, BUT WHEN Be better prepared than I was! TURNING DISADVANTAGES INTO ADVANTAGES Not only surviving extreme adversity but thriving because of it! Workshops: 40 Business Leadership Mistakes I made when the Black Swan showed up in my Reception Room BOOKS When Not If: A CEO’s Guide to Overcoming Adversity Just One More : The Wisdom of Bob Vukovich PAST CLIENTS Service Academy Global Entrepreneur Summit (SAGES) (Keynote – 200 Business Leaders, D.C.) Austin Bruins NAHL Hockey Team Service Academy Business Mentor (SABM) Network Radz Capital, LLC Investment/Capital firm ISID Construction firm 10X Vets Network Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) FINRA: Small Business National Committee BodyK, LLC Medical Device firm Combat Bound, LLC Defense Technology Big Brothers Big Sisters, Virginia The Children's Village, Virginia 55 Industries, Aerospace firm

  • Linda Ellerbee

    Outspoken Journalist, Award-Winning Television Producer And Best-Selling Author Linda Ellerbee Outspoken Journalist, Award-Winning Television Producer And Best-Selling Author Linda Ellerbee is an award-winning journalist, best-selling author, and one of America’s most sought-after speakers. She is a breast cancer survivor, a mom, a grandmother, and a trailblazer in the world of television and documentary production. Ellerbee began her career in 1972 at the Associated Press, before moving to television in 1973 as an on-air reporter at KHOU in Houston. Within six months, she was hired by WCBS in New York as the “hard news” reporter for the 11 p.m. newscast. By 1975, she joined NBC News as a Congressional Correspondent, covering national politics. In 1982, Linda revolutionized late-night news with NBC News Overnight, a program she wrote and anchored with Lloyd Dobyns. The show received critical acclaim, including a duPont-Columbia Award for being one of the “best written and most intelligent news programs ever.” In 1986, she moved to ABC News, where she anchored the Our World historical series, winning a national News & Documentary Emmy for her writing. In 1987, Linda and her partner, Rolfe Tessem, left network news to form Lucky Duck Productions, a New York-based company focused on producing documentaries and specials for both broadcast and cable. Their work began with PBS documentaries and later expanded to produce Nick News for Nickelodeon, which has become the longest-running children’s news program in television history. Nick News has earned numerous accolades, including three Peabody Awards and nine national Emmys. Linda’s work has been seen on networks including ABC, CBS, PBS, Lifetime, HBO, A&E, and MSNBC, producing powerful stories that resonate with viewers of all ages. Over her 39-year career, Linda has authored several best-selling books, including And So It Goes , a humorous look at television news, Move On , which explores the life of a working single mother, and Take Big Bites , a witty memoir about her love of travel, food, and adventure. Her children’s book series, Get Real , continues to inspire young readers. As a speaker, Linda is known for her humor, wisdom, and insight. She inspires audiences with her candid take on surviving corporate America, overcoming breast cancer, and embracing change. She’s particularly sought after by medical groups, speaking from the patient’s perspective, and discussing the healthcare system with humor and grace. In 2011, Linda was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for Children’s Television at the Banff International Media Festival. She also received the Tribute Award at the Gracie Awards, presented by CNN anchor Aaron Brown, who praised her as one of the most influential women in television news, alongside Barbara Walters. Although Linda’s career has garnered numerous prestigious awards, she says the greatest rewards come from her family—her partner Rolfe, her two children, and her four grandchildren—who bring her the joy and perspective that matter most. She splits her time between New York City and Massachusetts, where she lives with Rolfe and their two Greek rescue dogs, Daisy and Dolly. TOPICS Change Is A Form Of Hope Surviving Breast Cancer To Laugh Another Day How To Succeed And Still Hang Onto Your Values How To Raise A Media-Savvy Kid And So It Goes Adventures In Journalism BOOKS Take Big Bites And So It Goes Move On PAST CLIENTS Breast Cancer / Cancer organizations Operating room nurses Corporations School Boards Governor’s Conferences Women’s symposiums Hospitals Pharmaceutical companies Schools, universities Doctors / medical conferences

  • Kate Delaney

    Expert on getting your message heard: Clarify, Connect and Profit Kate Delaney Expert on getting your message heard: Clarify, Connect and Profit Kate Delaney is a dynamic speaker, award-winning journalist, and renowned sports commentator who shows individuals, leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations how to break through barriers and get their message heard. An Emmy Award-winning journalist, Kate’s journey to becoming America’s Number One Female Sports Commentator was not without its challenges. After being rejected 500 times for a chance to report on sports, Kate persevered and went on to interview over 12,000 people, developing a reputation for her exceptional listening skills and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. In an era where attention spans are short, Kate empowers top executives with two critical skills: how to truly listen and how to get heard. Her signature keynote, "Influential Listening," combines insights from her broadcasting career, where she reaches three million listeners daily, with research from top Fortune 500 companies. What People Are Saying: “Wowed is the best way to describe what happened to the entire crowd who heard Kate Delaney speak. Nothing but rave reviews.”— Brenna Smith, Founder & CEO, Shenow “Kate Delaney has cornered the market in a way that I don’t see anyone else touching. She is a woman who broke through and succeeded in a male-dominated field, and does her work with authority and commands respect. Kate stands out with her confidence, knowledge, and insight.”— Lance Allred, Former NBA Player In addition to her speaking career, Kate has an impressive track record in broadcasting and business. As Chief Operating Officer for the Golden Broadcasters Network (2005-2010), she negotiated multi-million dollar deals with clients, stations, and talent. She also worked with the Texas Rangers, closing a $25 million radio rights deal with CBS as Executive Sports Director. Kate has collaborated with top brands like Comcast, Cisco, Boys and Girls Clubs, AON, Home Depot, and many more. She is also a nationally syndicated talk show host, with her unique weekend show on the NBC Radio Sports Network, the only show of its kind hosted by a woman and airing on 250 stations across the U.S. She is the author of three popular books, including her latest business book published by Forbes, Deal Your Own Destiny: Increase Your Odds, Win Big, and Become Extraordinary . This powerful, quick-read guide is designed for anyone looking to make life-changing decisions in their career or personal life. TOPICS Want to Get Heard? The art of influential Listening Find your Wow, How to clearly, concisely and confidently define who you are The Cow is out of the Barn, nothing is homogenized anymore Locker Room Insights and how they apply to you Level the Playing Field, game-changing strategies to leave your competition behind BOOKS Deal Your Own Destiny, Increase your Odds, Win Big and Become Extraordinary Invade the Man Cave: Sports Secrets guys wished you knew Level the Playing Field Balls, Brats and Other B.S. Coming out this fall Influential Listening: Getting heard in a Noisy World PAST CLIENTS Texas Health Hospitals NFL Home Depot Raytheon Dinnovite SMU AON Pinnacle 1-800-flowers USTA Grainger General Mills

  • Erik Wahl

    Artist Erik Wahl Artist Erik Wahl is an internationally recognized artist, TED speaker, and No. 1 bestselling author. His breakthrough experience as both an artist and entrepreneur has made him one of the most sought-after corporate speakers today. On stage, Erik’s keynote presentations create a dynamic, multidimensional metaphor for how to systematically embrace innovation and risk. His message is clear: disruption is the new normal, and businesses must embrace creativity on a large scale—or risk being left behind. Erik inspires organizations to become more agile and shows how to use disruption as a competitive advantage. Some companies will be disrupted; others will choose to be the disruptors. Choose wisely. Erik’s latest book, The Spark and the Grind , highlights the essential components of translating ideas into action. His breakthrough thinking has earned praise from top influencers in both the art and business worlds. His previous book, the bestseller Unthink , was hailed by Forbes as “The blueprint to actionable creativity” and by Fast Company as “provocative with a purpose.” As Forbes put it, Erik is “The Warhol of Wall Street, the Renoir of ROI, the Picasso of Productivity, and the Jobs of … Well, Jobs.” Erik discovered an alarming truth early in his career as a partner in a corporate firm: organizations that embraced the mental discipline of creativity outperformed those that did not prioritize innovation. Motivated by this insight, he set out to challenge companies to rethink their approach to creativity. Along the way, inspired by street art, he became an acclaimed graffiti artist. Although he no longer sells his work for personal gain, Erik uses his art to raise money for charitable causes. His keynote presentations merge his passion for business growth and art into a fascinating performance. TOPICS The Art of Vision Discovering your untapped potential BOOKS I Am Artist Story UNCHAIN THE ELEPHANT: Reframe Your Thinking to Unleash Your Potential The Spark and the Grind PAST CLIENTS AT&T Disney London School of Business Microsoft FedEx Exxon Mobil Ernst & Young XPrize

  • Thomas A. Kolditz

    Leadership Keynote Speaker, retired Brigadier General, Author, and Executive Director of the Doerr Institute for New Leaders Thomas A. Kolditz Leadership Keynote Speaker, retired Brigadier General, Author, and Executive Director of the Doerr Institute for New Leaders Tom Kolditz is the founding Executive Director of the Doerr Institute for New Leaders at Rice University. He designed and directed the core Leader Development Program at the Yale School of Management, served as the chairman of the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership at West Point, and was the founding director of the West Point Leadership Center. A highly experienced leader, Brigadier General (retired) Kolditz has more than 26 years of P&L-level supervisory experience, serving on four continents during his 34 years of military service. He is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and a member of the Academy of Management. He also serves as a senior advisor to the Future of Executive Development Forum. His most recent book, In Extremis Leadership: Leading as if Your Life Depended on It, is based on more than 175 interviews conducted on the ground in Iraq during combat operations. General Kolditz has been recognized as a leadership Thought Leader by the Leader to Leader Institute and as a Top Leader Development Professional by Leadership Excellence. He holds a BA from Vanderbilt University, three master’s degrees, and a Ph.D. in social psychology from the University of Missouri. In 2009, he was appointed to the Council of Senior Advisors for the Future of Executive Development Forum. A skydiving instructor since 1980, General Kolditz also served as the senior instructor for the West Point Sport Parachute Team. He integrates his personal experiences as a soldier, skydiver, and scholar into the study and practice of leadership in extreme circumstances—in extremis leadership—and how such leadership principles can inform the practice of leading in more ordinary settings. General Kolditz has presented leadership content to more than 150 audiences across governmental, corporate, and social sectors worldwide. As a professor, he has led seminars or delivered lectures at Babson College, Wellesley College, Olin College, the University of Missouri, Columbia University, Duke University, Yale University, the Military Psychology Center of the Israel Defense Forces, Peking University, the Beijing International MBA Program, Harvard’s Center for Public Leadership, seven national and international service academies, and more than ten major metropolitan law enforcement, firefighting, and public service academies. He has appeared on ABC World News, ABC 20/20, Al Jazeera, MSNBC, CBS, NPR, Calgary Today, Morning Ireland, and has conducted interviews with The New York Times, the Associated Press, Time, Discovery, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Washington Post, La Razón , and more than a dozen national and international news agencies. General Kolditz holds numerous degrees, including a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from Vanderbilt University, as well as master’s and Ph.D. degrees in Social Psychology, a Master of Military Arts and Science, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies.

  • Shelley Paxton

    Keynote Speaker, Advisor, and Simon & Schuster Author Shelley Paxton Keynote Speaker, Advisor, and Simon & Schuster Author Shelley is a 26-year advertising and marketing veteran whose legacy is imprinted on iconic global brands like McDonald’s, Visa, and Harley-Davidson. At the pinnacle of her career, as Chief Marketing Officer of Harley-Davidson, she was shocked to find herself feeling success-empty instead of success-full. That awakening led her on a profound journey that became her mission, business, and bestselling book, Soulbbatical: A Corporate Rebel’s Guide to Finding Your Best Life. Now Chief Soul Officer, she works with leaders and teams to redefine success and reshape cultures in ways that celebrate humanity, wellbeing, and soul. Her influential work is an empowering antidote to corporate burnout, attrition, and disengagement. It’s gained recognition on platforms like NBC, CBS, Forbes, Inc., and Thrive Global, making her a respected thought leader, advisor, and sought-after keynote speaker who’s been called “the next Brené Brown.” Her energizing and actionable keynotes are creating Ripples of Impact (ROI) in lives, businesses, and culture. Shelley is on a mission to liberate a billion souls from success-empty to success-full. She’s based in Chicago and obsessed with mental health advocacy and the color orange. For more info: www.shelleypaxton.com TOPICS FOR LEADERS: I Quit So You Don't Have To: Flipping the Script from Success-EMPTY to Success-FULL FOR ORGANIZATIONS: Ripples of Impact: Creative Cultures That Have Impact IN the World, Not ON Our Wellbeing FOR ENTREPRENEURS: What Are You Rebelling For? A Rally Cry and Roadmap to Success-FULL BOOKS Soulbbatical: A Corporate Rebel's Guide to Finding Your Best Life (Simon & Schuster) PAST CLIENTS ASA (American Staffing Association) NAED (Nat'l Association of Electrical Distributors) Roc (Global Search Firm) MEA (Modern Elder Academy) Fidelity Cap Strat Loyola Marymount University Northwestern University Chief

  • Carey Lohrenz

    Accelerate performance and achieve business excellence Carey Lohrenz Accelerate performance and achieve business excellence Carey Lohrenz knows what it takes to win in one of the highest-pressure, most extreme environments imaginable: the cockpit at Mach 2. As the first female F-14 Tomcat fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy, having flown combat-ready missions worldwide, Carey is accustomed to working in fast-paced, dynamic environments where inconsistent execution can lead to catastrophic results. The same challenges exist in business: markets change, customer needs evolve, and if you don’t adapt quickly, your company is at risk. In her motivating and engaging keynote presentations, Carey shares her fascinating experiences operating in one of the world’s most challenging environments—an aircraft carrier. She is uniquely qualified in the fundamentals of winning under pressure, reducing errors, and overcoming obstacles. Her mastery of these principles can help your team triumph in today’s high-risk, time-crunched world. Carey’s timely message on High-Performing Teams and developing a Culture of Learning is rooted in the best practices of high-reliability organizations. Her Prepare, Perform, Prevail process helps businesses manage risk while becoming a High-Performing Organization. This message resonates with diverse audiences at every level of the company. Carey has been personally requested by name by some of the top Fortune 100 companies. Her ability to connect both with audiences and on a one-on-one level, coupled with her experience leading high-performing, diverse teams, has made her a highly sought-after business consultant and speaker. Carey is a powerhouse in delivering engaging leadership, high-performing organization, and diversity training that directly impacts a company’s ROI and bottom line. Her experience in the all-male environment of fighter aviation, along with her ability to pass on the lessons learned from her career, allows her to offer valuable insights on Women’s Leadership from a credible platform. Carey graduated from the University of Wisconsin, where she was a varsity rower and trained at the pre-Olympic level. After graduation, she attended the Navy’s Aviation Officer Candidate School before beginning flight training and her naval career. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus on Strategic Leadership. TOPICS Lessons in Leadership Remaining Relevant Lessons in Partnership High-Risk, High Reward Striking a Balance BOOKS Fearless Leadership PAST CLIENTS Verizon PayPal Cisco Dell Deloitte United Healthcare Women’s Foodservice Forum Expedia HCA Dixon Hughes Goodman Toyota SHRM

  • 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

  • Col. DeDe Halfhill

    Everyday Courage Col. DeDe Halfhill Everyday Courage Colonel DeDe Halfhill, USAF (ret.), is a highly sought-after international keynote speaker, strategic advisor, and leadership expert renowned for transforming how organizations navigate today’s complex and unpredictable challenges. With 25 years of distinguished military service, DeDe delivers powerful insights into building trust, addressing hidden dynamics, and fostering resilience—all anchored in her leadership philosophy of Everyday Courage™. Throughout her career, DeDe found herself at the center of some of the most historically impactful and high-stakes moments of modern history. As a principal advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the U.S. Secretary of Defense, and the Commanding General of Multinational Forces Iraq, she played a pivotal role in shaping decisions during critical combat operations and periods of immense uncertainty. Yet, the most significant lesson she learned was this: the courage that defines great leadership is not always forged in dramatic moments, but in the small, everyday decisions to confront fears, have tough conversations, and address the emotional undercurrents that ultimately determine whether teams thrive or falter. In addition to her advisory roles, DeDe led large, diverse teams in Iraq and managed the Air Force’s nuclear enterprise. She has repeatedly proven that addressing what goes unspoken is not only a strength but also a strategic advantage in achieving sustainable success. Her leadership philosophy, Everyday Courage™, empowers leaders to act with clarity, purpose, and resilience in the face of chaos, unlocking the trust, innovation, and collaboration that lead to extraordinary outcomes. Now, DeDe partners with organizations worldwide, helping them develop leaders who can thrive in the face of uncertainty and change. Through her keynotes, advisory work, and customized training programs, she equips leaders with actionable strategies to navigate crises, enhance collaboration, and lead with intention. Her unique approach, combining military precision with profound emotional insight, demonstrates how the smallest decisions can lead to the most impactful transformations. DeDe’s ability to translate high-stakes military leadership lessons into practical business insights makes her an invaluable resource for organizations eager to rethink leadership. Whether addressing thousands from the stage or working directly with executive teams, DeDe challenges leaders to embrace Everyday Courage™, creating workplaces where trust, connection, and meaningful action drive exceptional results. TOPICS Everyday Courage: Navigating Leadership’s Unseen Dynamics Leaders Connect: The Power of Connection to Drive Trust, Teamwork, and Results The Leadership Language of Trust: The Power of Authentic Leadership Communication Heartfelt Leadership: The Wisdom of Women in a Changing World PAST CLIENTS PWC Salesforce Cisco Lockheed Martin Bank of America Capital One Sanofi CBRE Quickbase Hearst Select Medical Edelman

  • 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

  • Alex Weber

    The Leadership Ninja Alex Weber The Leadership Ninja “Be The Unstoppable You” With his contagious positive energy, Alex Weber immediately impacts audiences, inspiring record-breaking achievements. Alex is an International Keynote Speaker, Award-Winning Host for NBC, and a competitor on American Ninja Warrior . He helps leaders, individuals, and organizations become relentless, gain a competitive edge, and unlock new levels of achievement. Alex connects with audiences because of his genuine openness about the challenges, self-doubt, and uncertainty that we all face—and how to overcome them. As a professional entertainer, US Lacrosse Coach of the Year, and acclaimed author, Alex is highly sought after for his unique ability to engage, transform, and empower. He has positively impacted over 3.5 million people worldwide, working with major companies like ABC, Apple, Amazon, Under Armour, LinkedIn, the Los Angeles Lakers, Stanford Business, and many more. Alex is also the only person ever to host and compete on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior . Through riveting storytelling, uplifting humor, and captivating energy, Alex empowers you to become a positive leader, overcome challenges, and accomplish your highest goals in your career, relationships, and life. TOPICS UNSTOPPABLE The Perfect Keynote For Leaders And Top Performers THE UNSTOPPABLE YOU The perfect Keynote for Professionals, Individuals, and Organization-wide UNSTOPPABLE LEADERSHIP The perfect Keynote for Leaders UNSTOPPABLE TEAMS The perfect Keynote for Teams and Organization-Wide PAST CLIENTS NBC Xerox Leadership Association Amazon LinkedIn Center for Financial Training Apple Medical Management Association Under Armour Farm Bureau Financial Services The Los Angeles Lakers North Carolina Bankers Association The Association of Manufactured Technologies The National Management Association Stanford Graduate School of Business The Automotive Training Institute LocumTenens.com

  • Rocket Ismail

    Former Dallas Cowboy Wide Receiver & Notre Dame Standout Rocket Ismail Former Dallas Cowboy Wide Receiver & Notre Dame Standout Raghib "Rocket" Ismail (born November 18, 1969) is a retired player of American and Canadian football. A wide receiver and kick returner, he came to prominence playing college football for the University of Notre Dame, where he was Consensus All-American (1990) and The Walter Camp Award winner (1990) before moving on to both the Canadian Football League (CFL) from 1991–92 and the National Football League (NFL) for The Oakland Raiders, Carolina Panthers and Dallas Cowboys from 1993-2002. Ismail recorded two 1,000-yard receiving seasons in the NFL and was a CFL All-Star in 1991, Frank Gibson Award Winner, as well as the Most Valuable Player of the 79th Grey Cup. In 2004, College Football News named Ismail the No. 75 player on its list of the Top 100 Greatest College Football Players of All-Time. He was also selected by Sports Illustrated to the 85-man roster of its all-20th Century college football team. Hehas been featured twice on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Ismail is known for: ~Being a two-time All-American and Heisman Trophy runner-up ~Leading Notre Dame to an undefeated national championship season in 1988 ~Being one of only two Irish players to have over 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in their career ~Being a CFL All-Star in 1991 ~Winning the Frank Gibson Award Ismail was also a track star at the University of Notre Dame, where he ran the 100 meters in 10.2 seconds. He also competed in the 55 meters, with a personal best of 6.07 seconds. At the 1991 NCAA Division I Indoor Track and Field Championships, he finished 2nd in the 55-meter sprint.

  • Tessa Todd Morgan

    Mindfulness Expert & TRIESSENCE Founder Tessa Todd Morgan Mindfulness Expert & TRIESSENCE Founder ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. TOPICS DAILY RESET BREAK: Take control of your daily life using mindfulness Are you ready to take a mindfulness journey to purposefully reset, renew and get re-energized? Tessa Todd Morgan offers simple tools that can help anyone to manage daily stress in minutes, before it turns into prolonged burnout. Are you ready to re-boot and re-center your body, mind and spirit? Tessa will be your guide in light participation, including breathing exercises, simple stretching for the workplace, and action plan coaching to help us focus on proactive behaviors that support our emotional and physical wellness. Come prepared to learn about ways to fight fatigue, increase concentration, maximize energy, elevate creative thinking, and train our brains to be more resilient in face of daily stresses at work and at home. Let’s learn the power of a Daily Reset Break. FIND YOUR TRIESSENCE: A three-part personal growth plan Learn how to recognize and eliminate both active and passive self-sabotage, re-ignite professional passion, and identify action steps for achieving the goals in life you want to accomplish. Tessa shares the tools and techniques she has learned along her journey in finding true joy and fulfillment in her life – physical, mental, and spiritual balance. All three areas of critical attention are covered with light-hearted grace. Tessa helps remind us that we are all capable of amazing things. PAST CLIENTS Georgia Hospital Association Tobii Dynavox Splunk Allstate Capital One Mississippi Power UBS Taiho Oncology Cosmo Prof (Sally Beauty) NBC Sam’s Club St. Edward’s University

  • 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

  • Joel Zeff

    Workplace Expert, Author, Humorist Joel Zeff Workplace Expert, Author, Humorist Joel Zeff creates energy. As a dynamic speaker, improvisational humorist, and author, he brings his audiences to life with interactive performances that encourage participation in hilarious improvisational exercises. These exercises illustrate his central message: organizations and individuals should CELEBRATE everyday successes to boost collaboration, productivity, passion, and innovation. Since 1997, Joel has inspired audiences at companies such as Wells Fargo, Samsung, KPMG, and even the IRS—yes, the IRS. Joel is a masterful public speaker and a nationally renowned motivator, lifelong humorist, and improvisational actor. His career is a pursuit of fun and passion. He first discovered the importance of both in his early jobs delivering newspapers and cleaning up trash at a suburban movie theater. Joel’s professional career began in journalism and public relations. In 1994, he transitioned to corporate communications, helping clients with employee communications, media relations, strategy, and customer marketing. Over time, he realized that his clients—many from high-level technology and telecommunications firms—needed more than just marketing strategies. They were hungry for fun, passion, and fresh perspectives on finding success. At the same time, Joel was pursuing comedy on the weekends. Through friends, he discovered improvisational comedy. One of his clients, a large technology company, knew about his weekend comedy gigs and asked him to perform some improvisational games for a group of high-level executives. He brought a fellow comedian along, and thus began his corporate speaking career. Joel connects with his audiences using humor so powerful that it leaves them laughing until their mascara runs, cheeks hurt, and bellies ache. He invites volunteers from the audience to join him on stage and play improvisation games—something many have never done before. He expects nothing less than their success, challenging them to focus, collaborate as a team, communicate effectively, and take responsibility. His presentation, Make the Right Choice, is a mix of humor, inspiration, and practical business insights. Joel’s goal is not just to make you laugh, but also to make you think. The talk provides significant ideas to help audience members reconnect with their passion and drive for success. As outlined in his book, Make the Right Choice , Joel believes that we all face choices in our careers and lives. Every day offers an opportunity to make the right choice to live a more creative, passionate, and productive life. How do you make the right choice? By choosing to provide opportunity, offer positive support, and most importantly, by choosing to have fun. It’s that simple—and Joel shows us how. Outside of speaking, Joel channels his creativity as an actor, writer, and comedian. He began performing professionally in 1992 and was co-host of The Movie Zone on UPN 21 in Dallas. He has appeared in dozens of commercials for clients such as Dallas Cowboys, Harrah’s Casino, Time Warner Cable, Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, and many others. He’s also featured in hundreds of corporate videos and made an appearance on CNBC’s The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch. His work has been highlighted in The Dallas Morning News, The Houston Chronicle, The Kansas City Star, and several other media outlets. TOPICS The TA-DA of Teamwork: Succeeding During Change and Disruption The Spirit of TA-DA: Watch What Happens When Work Becomes Play The TA-DA of Change: Leading Teams during Change with Passion and Success The Spirit of TA-DA: A Virtual Experience of Fun, Energy, and Passion Celebrate Work and Create a Positive Environment Improving Collaboration and Teamwork during Change Leading Change Staying in the Game during Change Promote Ownership and Responsibility Encouraging Innovation Enhancing communication during Change BOOKS Make the Right Choice: Creating a Positive, Innovative, and Productive Work Life PAST CLIENTS Wells Fargo T-Mobile San Diego Padres Internal Revenue Service Aflac Insurance GlaxoSmithKline Ericsson Allstate Insurance Lincoln Financial International Association of Venue Managers Walmart Sonic Drive-In

  • 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

  • AmyK Hutchens

    Speaker. Author. Trainer. Coach. Master Communicator. Cool Aunt. AmyK Hutchens Speaker. Author. Trainer. Coach. Master Communicator. Cool Aunt. AmyK Hutchens is an international award-winning speaker, Amazon #1 bestselling author, and an expert in communication and leadership with over 19 years of experience in training, coaching, and consulting. As a sought-after speaker, AmyK delivers 75+ speaking events per year for top-tier clients including Starbucks Canada, Expedia, Lockheed Martin, Securian Financial, IBM, Wells Fargo, Walmart, and John Paul Mitchell Systems, helping leaders at all levels become master communicators so they can lead, innovate, sell, and collaborate more effectively, one conversation at a time. As a featured contributor for Entrepreneur magazine, AmyK offers expert insights on effective communication, leadership, and growth strategies. Her latest book, GET IT: Five Steps to the Sex, Salary, and Success You Want , teaches executives, business owners, influencers, and high-achievers how to achieve exact results without saying something they regret, giving away their power, or damaging important relationships in the process. AmyK holds a Master of Science from Johns Hopkins University and has appeared as a featured guest on several major TV and radio networks, including Bloomberg, NBC, and ABC. Based in San Diego, California, AmyK continues to empower individuals and organizations to communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact, driving success and transformation wherever she goes. TOPICS GET IT: Leadership GET IT: Creativity & Innovation GET IT: Sales & Customer Service GET IT: Communication & Change GET IT: Emotional Intelligence GET IT: Story GET IT: Self-Leadership & Mindset GET IT: Teams & Culture BOOKS GET IT: Five Steps to the Sex, Salary and Success You Want The Secrets Leaders Keep PAST CLIENTS Comerica Bank Expedia Starbucks Canada The Home Depot ONTIC American Banking Association Lockheed Martin Brighton Walmart Securian Financial Tri Delta AT&T

  • Jeff Saturday

    NFL Analyst Jeff Saturday NFL Analyst Super Bowl champion and six-time Pro Bowl center Jeff Saturday joined ESPN in July 2013. The 14-year NFL veteran regularly appears on NFL Live, Get Up, SportsCenter and contributes to other ESPN platforms. In November 2022, Saturday was named interim head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, a position he held for the remainder of the 2022-23 NFL season. Saturday returned to ESPN at the beginning of the 2023-24 season. Saturday’s NFL career spanned 13 years with the Indianapolis Colts (1999-2011) and one year with the Green Bay Packers (2012). Though he entered the league as an undrafted free agent, Saturday was a fixture on the Colts teams that won Super Bowl XLI and represented the AFC in Super Bowl XLIV. The Sporting News named him to the NFL All-Decade Team (2000-09) and he achieved first-team All-Pro honors twice (2005, 2007). Over a decade-long period with the Colts, Saturday anchored an offensive line that allowed the fewest sacks in the league (242), and his 132 career wins as a Colt are second only to Peyton Manning (141) in franchise history. Together, Saturday and Manning started an NFL record 172 games as a center-quarterback duo. In addition to teaming with the four-time NFL MVP quarterback in Indianapolis, Saturday played his final season under center with 2011 NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay. He earned his sixth Pro Bowl appearance there and helped the Packers win the NFC North. Following the 2012 season, Saturday signed a one-day contract with Indianapolis to officially retire as a Colt. He was inducted into the Colts Ring of Honor in 2015. Saturday was a member of the Executive Committee of the National Football League Players’ Association as a player. In 2011, he was instrumental in negotiating the long-term Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the NFL and NFLPA that ended the NFL lockout. A native of Atlanta, Ga., Saturday attended the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill where he earned a degree in business. The two-year captain and four-year letterman (1994-97) was named to the All-ACC first-team at center in 1996 and 1997, as well as the conference’s All-Academic team in 1997. An active member of his community and a contributor to numerous charitable endeavors, Saturday supports Kids’ Voice of Indiana, People’s Burn Foundation of Indiana, the Riley Hospital for Children and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Saturday and his wife, Karen, have three children: Jeffrey, Savannah and Joshua.

  • The Party Scientist

    Jacques Martiquet The Party Scientist Jacques Martiquet The Party Scientist is on a mission to spread the health benefits of interpersonal joy. His message is simple: Joy + Connection = the ultimate natural antidepressant. And you’ll feel it. In his high-energy, educational sessions disguised as parties, he equips audiences with tools to spark interpersonal joy in their social interactions, meetings, and relationships. But don’t expect a traditional classroom—The Party Scientist brings the energy! In 2015, he discovered his life purpose while saving the lives of intoxicated young people as a frontline festival medic. This led him to launch a sober partying movement, eventually gaining media attention from VICE, Elle, Maclean’s, and Global News. Realizing his pharmacology degree wasn’t going to be used in the traditional sense, The Party Scientist decided to teach people about the natural “drugs” within their bodies—accessible through human connection, music, and a healthy lifestyle. Since 2017, he has led thousands of celebratory experiences across 15+ countries, gracing the stages of international festivals and hosting events for companies like Accenture and LUSH Cosmetics. He continues to lead sober parties in his hometown of Vancouver, Canada. TOPICS The Science of Human Connection The Science of Interpersonal Joy Catalyzing Joy In Your Relationships Community & Connection Kickoff PAST CLIENTS Accenture Lush cosmetics Google Chevron Keyence Kuaray

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