261 results found with an empty search
- Erika Woods
Actress, Model, Inspirational Speaker Erika Woods Actress, Model, Inspirational Speaker Born in Tyler, Texas and raised in Overland Park, Kansas Erika received her BA from Howard University. After graduation, she moved to NYC where she began modeling and studying her craft. Erika has appeared on The Blacklist, Blue Bloods, The Michael J. Fox Show and the film Burning Cane. She has also appeared in numerous national commercials and served as an Associate Producer on the Feature Film Santorini Blue. TOPICS Celebrities That Are Actual Caregivers or Have Been How to Land Your Dream Life With Manifesting Hard Work
- 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
- 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
- Eric Termuende
Building Tomorrow’s Greatest Places To Work Eric Termuende Building Tomorrow’s Greatest Places To Work Eric Termuende is the co-founder of NoW of Work, the author of the bestselling book Rethink Work, and a global keynote speaker. Having spoken on hundreds of stages and worked with—and studied—the greatest places to work in the world, he knows what it takes to build incredible teams that are resilient, innovative, and prepared for the future of work. A former World Economic Forum Global Shaper and recognized as one of the Top 100 Emerging Innovators under 35 by American Express, Eric's ideas have been featured in Forbes, Thrive Global, The Huffington Post, The Globe and Mail, and many more. TOPICS One-Degree Shifts: Building Tomorrow’s Greatest Places to Work The Great Resignation: Why This is the Biggest Opportunity We’ve Never Seen to Attract and Retain Incredible Teams Leading Remote Teams: Maintaining Engagement, Productivity, and Happiness BOOKS Rethink Work PAST CLIENTS Amazon Toyota Zoom Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals Toyota Coca-Cola Achievers IBM US Apples Association TD Bank Northwestern Credit Union Association
- Betsy Allen-Manning
DNA of High Achievers & Effective Leaders Betsy Allen-Manning DNA of High Achievers & Effective Leaders Featured on FOX, CBS, ABC, NBC & TEDx, Betsy Allen-Manning is an internationally recognized keynote speaker & success strategist, for high-performing leaders & teams. Betsy’s specialty is helping leaders develop both foundational & critical skills to improve performance & productivity, while building a ‘great place to work’ culture. As an author of 3 published books, as well as a high energy, motivational speaker in Dallas, Betsy inspires people with her story of how she went from failure, to professional singer, to global impactor, and will challenge you to think outside the box and make your mark on the world. Through her dedicated research, her expertise in human behavior, her experience working as a manager for 5-star hotels, and her involvement with the John Maxwell Team, she is honored to have trained over 7,500 leaders & teams for small businesses, franchises & associations, to multi-billion dollar corporations; such as Toshiba, Aflac, Fidelity & the US Department of Defense. With her firm, Motiv8u Enterprises, being known as one of the top leadership training companies in Dallas, Texas, Betsy is committed to her mission of developing high achievers, effective leaders, & value-driven cultures, so people at every level feel they are living a more successful & significant life. TOPICS Indispensable Leaders: Stand Out By Building Vital Leadership Skills, Improving Productivity & Building a Values-Based Culture Great Leaders Pivot Not Panic: 6 Keys To Lead Through Change, Adapt Quickly & Innovate For Future Success DNA of High Achievers: Develop The Mindset, Discipline, Habits & Game Plan Required For Your Next Level Up-Level Your Communication: 4 Keys To Build Trust, Captivate Listeners, Reduce Conflict & Win With People Reset & Recharge: Handle Stress With a Positive Mindset, Build Resilience, Improve Productivity & Become a Super Achiever People Savvy: Develop ‘People Skills’ To Improve Communication, Build Better Relationships & Deal With Difficult People Effectively The Hybrid Leader: Crucial Skills Needed For Leading Remote Teams BOOKS Win With People- 52 Keys To Communicate, Connect, Influence & Resolve Conflict The Triumph Method- 7 Ways Great Leaders Gain Commitment & Develop Highly Motivated Teams Life in The Fast Lane- Your Dreams Are Closer Than They Appear PAST CLIENTS Atmos Energy Aflac Bed, Bath and Beyond BMW Blue Cross, Blue Shield Discover Farmers Insurance FDA TMobile Salvation Army Toshiba FEMA Verizon Walgreens Wells Fargo
- Nikki Stone
Olympic Gold Medalist & Bestselling Author Nikki Stone Olympic Gold Medalist & Bestselling Author Nikki Stone made history as America’s first-ever Olympic Champion in inverted aerial skiing at the 1998 Nagano Winter Games—just two years after a chronic injury had left her unable to stand, walk, or ski. Her remarkable comeback was fueled by tenacity, leading to 35 World Cup medals, 11 World Cup titles, and multiple national championships. As a sought-after motivational speaker, Nikki has inspired audiences worldwide, including Fortune 500 companies like Goldman Sachs, Coca-Cola, American Express, and Pfizer. Named International Professional Speaker of the Year, Nikki’s message encourages others to overcome obstacles, take risks, and reach extraordinary goals. She is also the author of the Amazon bestseller When Turtles Fly: Secrets of Successful People Who Know How to Stick Their Necks Out , which highlights success stories from individuals across various fields. In addition to speaking, Nikki created the Motivational Minutes program, offering tips on peak performance, wellness, and motivation. She has worked with the U.S. Olympic Committee, training athletes on overcoming challenges and mentoring future Olympians. Nikki also contributes articles to outlets like Huffington Post and is a contributing author to Awaken the Olympian Within. An honor graduate in both undergraduate and graduate studies, Nikki holds degrees in Sports Psychology and was named Student of the Year at the University of Utah, where she also taught a class on leadership. She continues to give back through her involvement with charities like Make-A-Wish Foundation, American Cancer Society, and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Nikki's inspiring journey has been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, and ESPN, among other major outlets. She now resides in South Carolina and continues to inspire others to “stick their necks out” and achieve their own gold medals. TOPICS THE CHAMPION’S PATH TO LEADERSHIP AND DRIVE: The Strategies and Tools for Everyone to Be a Champion and Increase Productivity and the Bottom Line THE ART OF THE ADAPTING TO CHANGE & ADVERSITY COMEBACK: The Strategies and Secrets to Resilience, Revival and Renewal BUILDING A WINNING TEAM: How To Create a Results-Driven Team With Purpose, Focus and Balanced Leadership BOOKS When Turtles Fly: Secrets of Successful People Who Know How to Stick Their Necks Out (Contributor to) Awaken the Olympian Within PAST CLIENTS AT&T Google Coca-Cola Pfizer Pharmaceuticals New York Life Procter & Gamble American Express Merrill Lynch Chevrolet PayPal GE Microsoft
- Leigh Diffey, Olympics & Sports Broadcaster
NBC Sports’ Olympic Games Commentator, voice of Motorsports in the US “Success in Seconds” Leigh Diffey, Olympics & Sports Broadcaster NBC Sports’ Olympic Games Commentator, voice of Motorsports in the US “Success in Seconds” Leigh Diffey is one of the most versatile and instantly recognizable voices in sports broadcasting, known for his dynamic presence and ability to narrate the world’s most iconic sporting moments. From the Paris Olympics to the Indianapolis 500, Leigh Diffey has been at the forefront of some of the biggest events in sports, amplifying the achievements of the world’s greatest athletes. His career spans the globe, where he has built a reputation for capturing the intensity, drama, and excitement of elite competitions. In his keynote, Success in Seconds, Leigh draws from his extensive experience in the fast-paced world of network television and elite sports to deliver a powerful message on the art of preparation, decision-making, and flawless execution—skills that are just as crucial in the corporate world as they are on the world stage. Leigh’s mission is simple: to show organizations that long-term goals, whether planned over weeks, months, or years, can be realized in mere seconds—provided they’ve laid the right foundation. Just as athletes are judged by their performance in split-second moments, corporations are evaluated by their operational excellence and results in a highly competitive marketplace. In his keynote, Leigh distills the wisdom he has gained from witnessing both triumphant and challenging moments in sports—from the sheer intensity of a 200-mph crash to the electrifying nine seconds of a 100-meter sprint. He shares three core principles that resonate deeply in the corporate world: Visualizing and Attaining Success: The power of setting clear goals and cultivating the mindset needed to achieve them. Goal-Oriented Patience and Execution: The importance of strategic, deliberate action over time, and how it leads to long-term results. Decision-Making Acumen and Reactionary Flexibility: The ability to make quick, effective decisions and adapt when the unexpected occurs. With Leigh Diffey’s Success in Seconds, your organization won’t just learn about success—they’ll gain the tools to achieve it, in seconds. TOPICS Sports Leadership Motivation Goal Setting Team Building Media Business PAST CLIENTS Delta Airlines Rolex Watch USA Coca-Cola Penske Corporation Hisense Dorilton Capital BMW Mercedes-Benz Fleet Cost & Care
- Daniel S. Shaffer, CPA, ChFC
Confidence + Goals + Commitment = Success Daniel S. Shaffer, CPA, ChFC Confidence + Goals + Commitment = Success Dan Shaffer is a dynamic speaker, business owner, and investment expert with over 30 years of experience in finance. A regular contributor on Fox Business Network, he is known for his ability to bring financial insights to life with engaging communication, compelling stories, and practical advice. His presentations focus on business growth, personal development, and the power of positive thinking, blending his deep financial knowledge with motivational strategies. As the author of Profiting in Economic Storms: A Historical Guide to Surviving Depression, Deflation, Hyperinflation, and Market Bubbles (published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.), Dan provides invaluable perspectives on navigating financial turbulence and turning challenges into opportunities. Dan’s career began on the New York Futures Exchange, where he started as a self-employed trader at just 21 years old. He later worked with prestigious firms like Bear Stearns & Company, Coopers & Lybrand, Hambrecht & Quist, and Northwestern Mutual/Robert W. Baird & Company. In 1998, he founded Shaffer Asset Management, where he earned a reputation as a creative and systematic market researcher. His firm used mathematical models to manage assets for both individual clients and major institutions, including Deutsche Bank and Societe Generale. He now employs his proprietary Absolute Investment Strategy model, built on decades of research and designed to manage wealth in any economic climate. Dan holds a Masters of Science in Accounting from New York University (1986) and a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communications from Syracuse University (1982). He is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) (1989) and holds the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation (1992) from the American College. Throughout his career, Dan has received numerous sales awards and has trained and mentored countless professionals in the financial industry. His innovative ideas on goal planning, expectation setting, and record-keeping have inspired both individuals and organizations to systematically unlock their peak potential. TOPICS Sales: Art or Science? Connecting the Dots in a World of Uncertainty How to Navigate Financial Markets The Power of Positive Thinking BOOKS Profiting in Economic Storms: A Historical Guide to Surviving, Depression, Deflation, Hyperinflation, and Market Bubbles. PAST CLIENTS Baruch College Fox Business Network Financial Fest 2014 (moneyradio1510) Financial Markets World FX- Week Futures Industry Association, Inc. iGlobal Forum Lind-Waldock & Company Marcus Evans Conferences Striker Securities, Inc. TradeTech (FX) World Research Group
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- Catherine Crier
Former judge, Broadcast journalist, bestselling author Catherine Crier Former judge, Broadcast journalist, bestselling author Catherine Crier is an Emmy Award and duPont-Columbia Award-winning journalist, best known for her work as a television anchor, political and legal talk show host, and author. Throughout her career, she has been a key figure at CNN, ABC News, Fox News, and Court TV, where she has anchored major news programs, hosted high-profile talk shows, and provided in-depth analysis on a wide range of topics. In addition to her journalism career, Crier is a New York Times best-selling author of five books, including The Case Against Lawyers, A Deadly Game, Contempt, Final Analysis, and Patriot Acts. Crier’s extensive legal career includes serving as an Assistant District Attorney, Felony Chief Prosecutor for Dallas County, Texas, and as a State Judge for the 162nd District Court in Dallas County—where she became the youngest state district judge ever elected in Texas. Her time on the bench included presiding over significant civil cases, such as historic S&L litigation, and leading efforts to shape legal and legislative reforms as Administrative Judge for the Civil District Courts. After a successful reelection to a second term as a state judge, a serendipitous meeting with a television news executive led to a dramatic shift in her career path. In 1989, Crier was hired to co-anchor CNN's premiere evening newscast. She went on to co-anchor Inside Politics, cover major election events, and host Crier & Company, a talk show that addressed news, politics, and international affairs. Crier joined ABC News in 1993, where she served as a correspondent and substitute anchor for Peter Jennings on World News Tonight and as a fill-in host for Ted Koppel’s Nightline. She also reported for the network’s 20/20 program. In 1996, Crier won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Investigative Journalism for her work on the segment “The Predators,” which exposed widespread nursing home abuses across the U.S. In 1996, Crier became one of the founding anchors for Fox News Channel, hosting The Crier Report, a live, hour-long nightly program where she interviewed top newsmakers. She also co-anchored the evening news, election coverage, and Fox Files, a news magazine show. In 1999, she joined Court TV, where she served as Executive Editor for Legal News Specials and hosted Catherine Crier Live, a fast-paced daily series covering the day’s top legal stories. Her investigative reporting on the U.S. juvenile justice system earned her the prestigious duPont-Columbia Award. In 2007, Crier transitioned from television news to become a founding partner at Cajole Entertainment, where she develops television, film, and documentary projects. Crier’s career has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of Moves Magazine’s Power Women of New York in 2013. A Dallas native, Crier holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Affairs from the University of Texas and a Juris Doctor from Southern Methodist University School of Law. She began her legal career in 1978 as an Assistant District Attorney and later became the Felony Chief Prosecutor for the Dallas County District Attorney’s office. From 1982 to 1984, she worked as a civil litigation attorney with Riddle & Brown, handling complex business and corporate matters before being elected as a judge in 1984. BOOKS The Case Against Lawyers—How the Lawyers, Lobbyists and Legislators have turned the Rule of Law into an instrument of Tyranny and What Citizens have to do about it A Deadly Game-the untold story of the Scott Peterson Investigation Contempt-How the Right is Wronging American Justice Final Analysis-the Untold Story of the Susan Polk murder Case Patriot acts-What Americans Must Do to Save the Republic
- Marilyn Sherman
How Top Performers Never Settle for Balcony Seats Marilyn Sherman How Top Performers Never Settle for Balcony Seats Marilyn Sherman is a Hall of Fame Business Speaker known for delivering powerful leadership lessons and tools that help people achieve top performance. With over 25 years of experience, Marilyn inspires audiences to move from the “balcony” of passive observation to the “front row” of active, engaged leadership. More than just a motivational speaker, Marilyn combines humor, engagement, and practical strategies to help individuals and teams drive greater results. Whether she’s speaking virtually, in-person, or in a hybrid format, her impactful messages are tailored to create lasting change. Marilyn's sessions are not only inspiring but are packed with actionable insights that audiences can immediately apply to improve performance. Before becoming a sought-after speaker, Marilyn spent years as a corporate trainer and crisis manager, where she honed her ability to assess complex situations and deliver practical tools for success. With her unique blend of leadership expertise and relatable storytelling, Marilyn is a top choice for organizations seeking to elevate their teams and inspire transformation. TOPICS Front-Row Leadership™ How Top Performers Never Settle for Balcony Seats Communicating for Results: From Conflict to Cooperation Which V are You? Managing Change Like a Volunteer Instead of a Victim Vacationer Is There A Hole In Your Bucket List?: How To Overcome Obstacles That Keep You From Achieving Your Goals BOOKS Is There A Hole In Your Bucket List? How To Overcome Obstacles That Keep You From Achieving Your Goals Whose Comfort Zone Are You In? Front-Row Service Why Settle for the Balcony? How to get a Front-Row Seat in Life PAST CLIENTS Coca Cola Women’s Foodservice Forum Ecolab Association of Continuing Legal Education of America International Association of Administrative Professionals AutoPro Mechanical McDonald’s Boeing (Rocketdyne) City of Las Vegas Ford Motor Co. Fuddruckers First Premier Bank
- Robert B. Tucker
Driving growth through innovation Robert B. Tucker Driving growth through innovation Robert B. Tucker is the president of The Innovation Resource and an internationally recognized leader in the field of innovation. Formerly an adjunct professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, Tucker has been a consultant and keynote speaker since 1986. His pioneering research, which involved interviewing over 50 leading innovators, was published in the book Winning the Innovation Game in 1986. Since then, he has continued to publish widely on the subject, including his international bestseller Managing the Future: 10 Driving Forces of Change for the New Century , which has been translated into 13 languages. In the newly revised edition of Driving Growth Through Innovation, Tucker outlines the emerging best practices of 23 innovation-leading companies. As one of the thought leaders in the growing Innovation Movement, Tucker is a frequent contributor to publications such as the Journal of Business Strategy, Strategy & Leadership , and Harvard Management Update . He has appeared on PBS, CBS News, and was a featured guest on the CNBC series The Business of Innovation. The Innovation Resource, based in Santa Barbara, California, is a consulting firm dedicated exclusively to helping companies improve both top- and bottom-line performance through systematic innovation. Tucker is a much-sought-after keynote speaker at conventions, company management meetings, and industry conferences. His clients include over 200 of the Fortune 500 companies, as well as organizations across Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Australia. TOPICS Innovation is Everybody’s Business Driving Growth Through Innovation The Intelligent Talk Show Master Classes Thinking ahead of the Curve BOOKS Driving Growth Through Innovation Managing The Future Innovation is Everybody’s business Winning the innovation game
- 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
- James Pogue, Ph.D.
The RIGHT Kind of Uncomfortable… James Pogue, Ph.D. The RIGHT Kind of Uncomfortable… Dr. Pogue is a leadership expert and trainer committed to equipping executives and professionals with the tools and insights they need to communicate and manage effectively. Drawing from his military service and overseas deployment in the Middle East, Dr. Pogue has firsthand experience in understanding the delicate balance between leaders and followers on high-performing teams. With nearly a decade in higher education as a Researcher, Professor, and Administrator, Dr. Pogue focused extensively on Unconscious Bias, Diversity and Inclusion, and the dynamics of Multigenerational Leadership. His work now spans across companies and colleges, where he helps organizations navigate the challenges of preparing, recruiting, and retaining talent from Baby Boomers, Millennials, and the emerging Generation Z. As an expert keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and executive coach, Dr. Pogue provides well-researched, data-driven insights that empower leaders to make impactful decisions that attract, engage, and retain talent at all levels. He frequently travels to deliver his thought-provoking sessions to professionals across diverse industries including food, high-tech, travel, leisure, medical, and legal fields. Outside of his professional work, Dr. Pogue is a competitive martial artist with five national titles, along with Silver and Bronze medals from the World Championships. He enjoys spending time with his two daughters and six granddaughters. TOPICS Unconscious Bias: What it is (not) and Its Power in the Workplace Diversity, Inclusion and Bias (DIBs): Measuring Progress. Improving Performance. Increase Productivity Multi-Generational Intelligence (MGI): Use MGI to Improve Your Communication, Leadership and Team The Connection Quotient The RIGHT Kind of Uncomfortable Deep Connections Matter More PAST CLIENTS American Academy of Sleep Medicine AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) Vetted Solutions Transplace DFW Airport SmithBucklin American College of Prosthodontists WFF (Women’s Foodservice Forum) Cornerstone Credit Union League Connectiv Texas Roadhouse TDN2K
- Molly Bloom
Top Keynote Speaker, Award-Winning Entrepreneur, Bestselling Author of Molly’s Game, and Former U.S. Ski Team Athlete. Molly Bloom Top Keynote Speaker, Award-Winning Entrepreneur, Bestselling Author of Molly’s Game, and Former U.S. Ski Team Athlete. Molly Bloom is an inspirational keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and bestselling author of Molly’s Game. She is best known for her memoir, Molly’s Game, which was adapted into an award-winning film of the same name by Aaron Sorkin. Bloom’s memoir chronicles her journey from college student to LA waitress to building and operating the largest and most notorious private poker game in the world. Her games featured hundreds of millions of dollars and players like Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, A-Rod, and Ben Affleck. Bloom began her career as a world-class skier. While training as a pre-teen, she was diagnosed with severe scoliosis and had to undergo surgery that the doctors said would end her athletic career. A year later, fully recovered, she was back on the slopes. She later joined the U.S. Ski Team and at 21 years old, was ranked No. 3 in North America in moguls, however her Olympic dreams would go unrealized as she left the team to pursue other projects. This led her to what she thought would be a year-long sabbatical in LA. Bloom was finishing her degree in Political Science at the University of Colorado – Boulder, and was in the process of applying to top-tier law schools, when her assistant job turned her into an accidental entrepreneur, running one of the most exclusive, high-stakes underground poker games in the world, pulling in as much as $4 million per year. What happened next is where her story truly begins. Some of Molly’s engagements include Fortune 1000 and strategic clients such as Comcast and U.S. Bank. The film Molly’s Game , written and directed by Aaron Sorkin, stars Academy Award winner, Jessica Chastain (as Molly), Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, Brian d’Arcy James, and Chris O’Dowd. Featured on Daily Hive and The New York Times as a ‘must-watch’ movie, Molly’s Game is now available to stream on YouTube TV. Bloom has appeared on numerous shows and in media outlets such as Ellen, Vice, The Los Angeles Times, NPR, Vulture , and has been asked to speak at Fortune’s Most Powerful Women, for companies like BlackRock Financial, SiriusXM Radio, and delivered the 2018 commencement speech at Colorado State University. Currently, Molly is focusing her energy on uplifting and mentoring other women after having been the mentee of amazing, dynamic women herself. In 2020, she launched the One World Group to support women facing various challenges, especially those exacerbated by the global pandemic. In 2022, she launched TORCHED , a new podcast about Olympic controversies. TOPICS Molly's Game: The True Story of the Woman Behind the Most Exclusive, High-Stakes Underground Poker Game in the World Engage, Connect and Level Up with Affective Presence Defying the Odds: Molly Bloom's Odyssey of Adversity, Reinvention, and Triumph Make Every Customer Feel Like a High Roller
- 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
- Omar Johnson
Speaker on Culture, Diversity, Marketing, and Branding; Former Beats CMO, Apple VP, and Top 100 Black Thought Leader. Omar Johnson Speaker on Culture, Diversity, Marketing, and Branding; Former Beats CMO, Apple VP, and Top 100 Black Thought Leader. Omar Johnson is a marketing innovator known for building world-class brands and driving transformative growth for some of the biggest names in business. As the former Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Beats by Dre and VP of Marketing at Apple, Johnson has led groundbreaking marketing strategies across brand development, positioning, advertising, and global digital marketing. During his tenure at Beats by Dre, Johnson played a pivotal role in growing the brand from a small startup with $20 million in revenue to a $2 billion category leader. Under his leadership, Beats became the #1 premium headphone brand in over 25 countries, a remarkable achievement that ultimately led to the company’s acquisition by Apple for $3 billion in 2014. Johnson’s strategic vision and marketing expertise were integral to the brand’s success, earning him widespread recognition in the industry. In 2016, Adweek honored Johnson as a “Brand Genius,” and Business Insider named him one of the “Most Innovative CMOs.” His work at Beats and beyond has consistently demonstrated his ability to create lasting impact and drive brand loyalty in competitive markets. Prior to his time at Beats, Johnson worked on some of the most influential marketing campaigns for global brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, Kraft Foods, and Campbell Soup. He was instrumental in producing iconic commercials for Nike, including the powerful “Rise” ad starring LeBron James, the memorable “All Together Now” campaign featuring Kobe Bryant, and the creative “The Most Valuable Puppets” series. Johnson’s work with these brands showcased his ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences on a deep emotional level, helping to elevate them from products to cultural touchstones. After his success at Apple, Johnson founded ØPUS United, a modern brand management company that brings together a diverse collective of award-winning executives, strategists, creatives, athletes, and musicians. Through ØPUS United, Johnson continues to push the boundaries of brand strategy, collaborating with top-tier talent to understand the anatomy of world-class brands and deliver groundbreaking work for clients. In addition to his work with ØPUS United, Johnson has spearheaded initiatives such as We The People and We Got Next, aimed at empowering underrepresented voices and creating positive social change. He is also the author of Dear White Corporate America, a thought-provoking work that sparks conversations about racial equity and representation in business and government. Through these initiatives, Johnson has sought to inspire younger generations to take action in areas like voting, polling, and increasing representation within politics. A native of Brooklyn, NY, Johnson earned a BS in Biology and Chemistry from Georgia State University and went on to receive an MBA from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University. His academic background, combined with his diverse career experiences, has shaped his approach to marketing and leadership, allowing him to see opportunities from both a scientific and creative perspective.
- Emmitt Smith
NFL's All-Time Leading Rusher , Pro Football Hall of Famer, 3 Time Super Bowl Champion & Businessman Emmitt Smith NFL's All-Time Leading Rusher , Pro Football Hall of Famer, 3 Time Super Bowl Champion & Businessman Emmitt Smith is a professional football icon and one of the greatest to ever play the game. In his 15 seasons as a running back in the National Football League, Smith amassed many records that still stand today, including most career rushing yards and most career rushing touchdowns. Smith’s impressive resume includes three Super Bowl championship rings, his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, and, most recently in 2019, his selection to the NFL 100 All-Time Team (a prestigious list honoring the best players of the NFL's first 100 years). As a first-round pick in the 1990 NFL Draft, Smith was the cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys offense for 13 seasons. The eight-time Pro Bowler was the first player in NFL history to rush for more than 1,000 yards in 11 consecutive seasons and on October 27, 2002 he surpassed Walter Payton as the NFL’s all-time leading rusher. After his playing days, Smith served as a football analyst and then took his television career a step further when he won the third season of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, during which he was dubbed “the king of effortless cool.” He also added author to his list of accomplishments, publishing Game On, which outlines the principles that helped him succeed both on and off the field. Smith then transitioned to the role of entrepreneur and runs several companies spanning real estate, construction, and technology. He is active in charitable outreach in the Dallas area and on a national level, providing educational opportunities and unique experiences for underserved youth. In addition, Smith is in-demand as a motivational speaker. In August of 2021, it was announced that Smith has become a co-owner of a NASCAR team partnering with Jesse Iwuji Motorsports for the 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series season. A major theme of Smith and Iwuji’s partnership will center on STEM education for lower income communities and diversity and inclusion initiatives within the sport of NASCAR. Smith resides in Dallas and, among his athletic accomplishments and business endeavors, is foremost a father of five children. BOOKS "The Emmitt Zone" "Game On: Find Your Purpose—Pursue Your Dream" PAST CLIENTS BluSky Restoration Contractors Sun Run Toyota BI Worldwide GFM Ministries Clifton Larson Allen LLP (“CLA”) PHP Agency
- Wema Hoover
Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leader, Executive Coach, Culture Curator, & former Google Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Wema Hoover Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leader, Executive Coach, Culture Curator, & former Google Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Wema Hoover is a Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Leader, Executive Coach, and Culture Curator with extensive experience driving transformative DEI strategies across top global organizations. Wema has previously led DEI efforts for industry giants like Google, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Bristol-Myers Squibb, where she helped inform and guide corporate leadership on critical initiatives to foster a more inclusive, equitable, and diverse workplace. With a track record of leading teams of over 85 people, Wema has developed and implemented multiple Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Councils, enhancing internal capabilities in areas such as belonging, unconscious bias, cultural competence, and global leadership. Her strategic leadership has shaped the corporate cultures of some of the world’s most prominent companies. As a recognized DEI thought leader, Wema has made significant contributions to the field, including her role as a member of the Coqual (Center for Talent Innovation) Hidden Brain Drain Task Force, where she collaborated on best practice DEI research across global markets, including China, India, and the US. She is also a National Member of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and a sought-after speaker on DEI topics at prominent conferences, including The Conference Board, Working Mother, and Diversity Best Practices. In addition to her leadership and speaking engagements, Wema is an Executive Coach with a strong educational foundation. She holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management and a Master’s-level Certificate in Organizational Change Management, both from New School University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rutgers University and is a certified Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) through the Human Resources Certification Institute.
- Kate White
The Authority on Bigger, Better, Bolder Careers Kate White The Authority on Bigger, Better, Bolder Careers Kate White is an internationally recognized expert on leadership, work, and success, and a New York Times bestselling author of several influential books on these topics. Her success strategies are rooted in her long career as a highly regarded media executive. She served as the editor-in-chief of five major U.S. magazines, including Working Woman, Redbook, and, for fourteen years, Cosmopolitan. At Cosmo, she increased circulation by an astonishing 30 percent and oversaw all aspects of the brand, including the website, apps, radio network, books, and videos. White is a frequently sought-after speaker for conferences, companies, and universities across the country due to her business acumen and leadership principles. She has appeared on numerous national television shows, including The Today Show and CNN's Quest Means Business. Her articles on leadership, success, and branding have been featured in a variety of publications and websites, including Forbes and HBR.com . Her honors include the Matrix Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Communications Industry and the Woodhull Institute Award for Ethical Leadership. She was also named one of the 15 Best Career Experts on Twitter by CEOWorld.com . Kate is the author of several content-driven business books, including her most recent, I Shouldn't Be Telling You This: How to Ask for Money, Snag a Promotion , and Create the Career You Deserve , and the Wall Street Journal bestseller Why Good Girls Don’t Get Ahead But Gutsy Girls Do . She is also the New York Times bestselling author of ten suspense novels, which have been published in 13 languages. Kate is a graduate of the first co-educational class at Union College, and in 2013, she attended the Women’s Leadership Forum at the Harvard Business School Executive Education program. TOPICS Gutsy, Gritty Strategies for Women- A Manifesto for Success BOOKS I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This: How to Ask for the Money, Snag the Promotion, and Create the Career You Deserve PAST CLIENTS Walmart Microsoft Standard and Poor’s United Way, Salt Lake City Numerous Chambers of Commerce, including St. Petersburg and Scranton MBW Women of New York Society of Professional Women, PA Pennsylvania Conference for Women California Conference for Women Texas Conference for Women Yale School of Management American Gaming Association
- Tara Renze
Be Who You Came To Be Tara Renze Be Who You Came To Be Tara Renze is an author, keynote speaker, emotional intelligence & positive intelligence practitioner, podcaster, thought-leader, wife and mother and is redefining how we unleash purpose, level up our success and create sustainable happiness and fulfillment in all aspects of our lives. After two decades of success in corporate leadership and social selling, she started writing and keynote speaking to empower others to “be who they came to be” and create, own and live the life they desire, envision and deserve. Tara has a true passion and talent for guiding others to harness and realize their full potential. Through books, keynotes, workshops, podcasts, social media, and insights, she helps her audience become the best version of themselves, achieve unlimited success, live fulfilled and pursue their passions. Tara takes a new and refreshing approach to helping others find purpose and be who they came to be. She combines her expertise in emotional & positive intelligence, success in corporate leadership and experience in social sales along with her roles as a wife and a mother to offer her audience an experience and a message that are sincere, motivating, relatable and game-changing. Tara is recognized as an inspirational leader and top achiever. At CareerBuilder.com , she was celebrated as a top national sales leader as she built and led two multi-million-dollar sales teams, facilitated national trainings, and provided leadership consulting to sales teams across the country. She left the corporate world to raise her two boys and successfully built a nationwide, multi-million-dollar social selling business that offered flexible entrepreneurship for women. Tara is a frequent keynote speaker and workshop host at local and national conferences and seminars and is an emotional-intelligence expert certified through OKA-Online. She graduated from the University of Kansas and has studied leadership at the Wharton School of Business, The University of Chicago and the Kellogg Graduate School of Management. Tara published her first book “Be Who You Came To Be” in November of 2021 and her Children’s book “Bee Who You Came To Bee” in January of 2023. She’s currently working on her third book “Perfectly Flawed,” which will drop 2024. Her favorite titles in life are wife to Scott, mom to Ben and Jack, daughter, sister and friend. Her dogs, Olive & Phog, are by far her biggest fans. TOPICS Be Who You Came To Be – Create, Own & Live the Life you Deserve & Desire Get Mentally Fit – Emotional & Positive Intelligence and The Leader You Came to Be Books Bee Who You Came to Bee Be Who You Came To Be PAST CLIENTS T-Mobile Women’s Foodservice Forum (5 city tour) Aflac Farmasi Pink Zebra Direct Selling Association Umpqua Bank Missouri Realtors Association Mechanical Contractors Association of America Kansas Chamber of Commerce Prime Lending Restaurant 365
- Courtney Clark
Adapt Faster, Achieve More Courtney Clark Adapt Faster, Achieve More Courtney Clark is the luckiest unlucky person in the world. After a series of major struggles beginning in her mid-20s, she has built two successful businesses and is the author of two books, including her most recent, The Successful Struggle: Powerful Techniques to Achieve Accelerated Resilience . She works with people who want to adapt faster and achieve more, and has spoken worldwide to organizations like Procter & Gamble, Dell, S&P, Humana, Cisco, and Cardinal Health. TOPICS Detour: Winning When Life Doesn’t Go According to Plan ReVisionary Thinking: Change the Way You Solve Problems, Face Challenges, and Get Stuff Done The Art of Accelerated Resilience BOOKS The Successful Struggle The Giving Prescription PAST CLIENTS Procter & Gamble Google Dell Marriott Nike Kaiser Permanente CVS Bristol Meyers Squibb Cisco Amgen Aetna Accenture
- Dan Marino
NFL Legend, record-setter, quarterback icon, redefining the art of the pass Dan Marino NFL Legend, record-setter, quarterback icon, redefining the art of the pass A first-round draft pick by the Miami Dolphins in 1983, Marino became an instant NFL sensation, setting the standard for quarterback excellence. He became the only rookie quarterback ever to be selected to the Pro Bowl (1983) and was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player in his second season (1984). The nine-time Pro Bowler (1983-87, 1991-92, 1994-95) played in 18 playoff games and led the Dolphins to the Super Bowl in 1985 against San Francisco. Dan won the Dolphins' MVP Award 12 times, and the team has since named the award after him. In the 1984 season alone, he completed an incredible 48 touchdown passes and had the most prolific season by a passer in NFL history, with 5,084 yards. Upon retirement, Dan held 25 NFL regular-season quarterback records and was tied for five others, quarterbacked Miami for 17 years, and positioned the Dolphins as perennial championship contenders throughout his career. One of three players ever to do so, he twice won the Dolphins' Community Service Award (1996 and 1998) and was named the NFL Man of the Year in 1998. Dan was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August 2005 and in 2010 he was ranked number 25 on the NFL's Top 100 Greatest Players list. Dan Marino continued to stay close to the game and joined CBS Sports as a studio analyst for the CBS Television Network's NFL pre-game show, THE NFL TODAY for 12 years. Along with CBS Dan has developed equity partnerships in numerous business ventures including Nutrisystem, 3Cinteractive, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Modernizing Medicine, and Universal Insurance to name a few. Dan currently is an Executive Advisor to the Owner and CEO of the Miami Dolphins. Dan attended the University of Pittsburgh, where he played football and earned a degree in communications. In 2008, he received an honorary doctorate degree in broadcast journalism from his Alma Mater. Inspired by experiences in raising his second son, Michael who has autism, Dan and his wife Claire became one of the first families to advocate for children with autism. Founding The Dan Marino Foundation in 1992, they have raised over $72 million to provide services and fund first of their kind initiatives including the Miami Children’s Hospital Dan Marino Center, the Marino Autism Research Institute, the DMF Jobs Development Program, and the Marino College. The Marino Campus provides an inclusive, supportive and welcoming atmosphere where young adults can experience success, learn vital life skills, and most importantly, gain independence. Born September 15, 1961, in Pittsburgh, Marino and his wife Claire, parents of 6 children, now live in South Florida. TOPICS Leadership & Teamwork Overcoming Adversity Legacy & Peak Performance Life After Football PAST CLIENTS The Wingman Group Compass Media WalkMe Corporation Salvation Army El Paso American Utilities Service Association (AUSA) Bill Shaffer Anniversary Dinner Circle K Crowne Dallas Area Compliance Association Heinrich Marketing KTVT CBS KPEJ Fox 24 Land Title Association of Arizona Shermco The Widow’s Journey River Spirit Casino Special Olympics
- Colonel Gregory D. Gadson, USA (retired)
Co-author of Finding Waypoints: A Warrior’s Journey Toward Peace and Purpose Colonel Gregory D. Gadson, USA (retired) Co-author of Finding Waypoints: A Warrior’s Journey Toward Peace and Purpose Colonel Gregory D. Gadson is a Chesapeake, Virginia native who served in the United States Army for over 26 years. His distinguished military career culminated in his role as Garrison Commander of Fort Belvoir, where he oversaw the daily operations of a strategic base supporting more than 50,000 military personnel and employees across 140+ commands and agencies for the Department of Defense. A 25-year Army officer, Colonel Gadson's life is a testament to courage and perseverance in the face of adversity. In May 2007, while commanding the 2nd Battalion, 32nd Field Artillery in Iraq, an IED attack resulted in the loss of both his legs above the knees and the partial loss of use of his right arm and hand. Despite these life-altering injuries, he remained on active duty, continuing to serve his country and inspiring others with his message of resilience, determination, and teamwork. Colonel Gadson's impact extended beyond the military. In 2007, he was invited by Tom Coughlin, head coach of the New York Giants, to speak to the struggling team. Drawing from his own experiences of overcoming adversity, Gadson’s words about service, teamwork, duty, and perseverance resonated deeply with the players, who went on to defeat the previously undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. In 2012, Gadson made his silver screen debut in Battleship, where he portrayed a war-injured veteran who helps save the world from an alien invasion. He later appeared in NCIS: Los Angeles in 2022, further expanding his influence as an actor and role model. Commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant of Field Artillery in 1989 from the United States Military Academy at West Point, Colonel Gadson served in every major conflict of the past two decades, including Operations Desert Shield/Storm, Joint Forge, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. His leadership was characterized by his unwavering commitment to the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. As a passionate advocate for wounded warriors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, Colonel Gadson actively contributes to several veteran service boards, including the Gary Sinise Foundation. He is also the managing partner of Patriot Strategies, LLC, a government services company that continues to serve veterans and military families. In addition to his professional pursuits, Colonel Gadson is an accomplished photographer, artist, and enjoys an active lifestyle that includes cycling, skiing, skydiving, and scuba diving. His military honors include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit (2), Bronze Star (3), Purple Heart, and Meritorious Service Medal (3), among others. He is a graduate of Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth and holds master's degrees in Information Systems from Webster University and Policy Management from Georgetown University. He also holds an honorary Doctorate of Laws from Webster University. BOOKS Co-author of Finding Waypoints: A Warrior’s Journey Toward Peace and Purpose by Terese Schlachter and Colonel Gregory Gadson, (Ret.)
- 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
- Doyin Richards
Mental Health and Equity in Today’s America Doyin Richards Mental Health and Equity in Today’s America Doyin (pronounced “doe-ween”) Richards is a highly respected consultant, TEDx speaker, keynote speaker, and workshop facilitator who inspires people to openly discuss mental health and mental illness, while advocating for equity in the workplace and beyond. He is also candid about his own mental health struggles, having survived a suicide attempt a few years ago. Today, Doyin is committed to ensuring that no one experiences the pain he did, offering tangible, actionable solutions that deliver results for clients across the United States, including companies such as Procter & Gamble, LEGO, The New York Times, Amgen, Freddie Mac, Workhuman, and Michigan State University. Mainstream media values his message, and he is frequently called upon for appearances on NPR, HLN, and other major outlets. Doyin has been interviewed by The TODAY Show, ABC News, Essence Magazine, Cosmopolitan, USA Today, CNN, Parents Magazine, Yahoo!, Sunrise Australia, and many more. Doyin’s message extends beyond adults. He is the best-selling author of three children’s picture books, published by Feiwel & Friends (an imprint of Macmillan). His latest book, YOU MATTER TO ME , is told from the perspective of his puppy, Biscuit, as he watches Doyin navigate through a neighborhood where no one looks like him. WATCH ME shares the inspirational story of Doyin’s immigration to America from a third-world country, overcoming racism and intense obstacles along the way. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? tackles the important topic of introducing children to positive race relations without raising them to be “colorblind.” All three of his books were #1 new releases in their categories on Amazon. Through his books, recent TEDx talk, keynote speeches, media appearances, and critically acclaimed workshops, Doyin has established himself as a leader in mental health, equity, and healthy masculinity. When he’s not working, you’ll find him in a Southern California city cheering on his two daughters as they play travel basketball. TOPICS Leading in a Divided America Being an Effective Working Parent From a Dad’s Perspective Real Talk About Equity and Mental Health RemindingYOU: A Leader’s Guide to Positive Mental Health at Work BOOKS You Matter To Me What’s The Difference? Watch Me I Wonder PAST CLIENTS Proctor & Gamble Michigan State University Workhuman The LEGO Corporation The New York Times 2K Games Freddie Mac Cisco Amgen Activison LinkedIn LexisNexis
- Molly Fletcher
Up Your Game: Helping you unlock your drive to get better every day Molly Fletcher Up Your Game: Helping you unlock your drive to get better every day Molly Fletcher, hailed by CNN as the “female Jerry Maguire,” made history as one of the first female sports agents, paving the way for women in the traditionally male-dominated world of sports representation. Over the course of nearly two decades as President of CSE, she negotiated over $500 million in contracts and represented more than 300 of the biggest names in sports, including Hall of Fame pitcher John Smoltz, PGA TOUR golfer Matt Kuchar, broadcaster Erin Andrews, and basketball championship coaches Tom Izzo and Doc Rivers. As a World’s Top 50 Keynote Speaker, Molly is known for her dynamic and inspiring presentations, delivering her message of leadership, negotiation, and performance to audiences around the globe. She is also the author of five books, including the bestsellers The Energy Clock and Fearless at Work . Her latest TED Talk, “Secrets of a Champion Mindset,” has garnered more than one million views, resonating with viewers worldwide for its practical, impactful insights. In addition to her speaking and writing, Molly is the founder and host of the popular podcast Game Changers with Molly Fletcher, where she interviews experts, athletes, and celebrities from various fields, including Arthur Blank, Dabo Swinney, John Mackey, Matthew McConaughey, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Simon Sinek. The podcast is a go-to resource for inspiration, leadership, and performance optimization. Molly’s work and expertise have been featured in prestigious media outlets like CNN, ESPN, Forbes, Fast Company, InStyle, and Sports Illustrated, underscoring her influence in both the sports and business worlds. Recently, Molly launched her first on-demand course, Up Your Game , designed to help individuals unlock their drive and elevate their performance. Through her company Game Changer Performance Group, she continues to help clients achieve peak performance through training experiences focused on Energy, Negotiation, and High Impact. TOPICS Unleash Your Potential Fearless at Work Secrets of a Champion Mindset Leading the Way: Inspiring Go-Getters and Game Changers BOOKS The Energy Clock; Fearless at Work A Winner’s Guide to Negotiating The Business of Being the Best The 5 Best Tools to Find Your Dream Career PAST CLIENTS Google Verizon Walmart Home Depot Proctor & Gamble Microsoft Hershey PayPal CVS Health Porsche Bank of America Marriott
- James 'Iron Cowboy' Lawrence
The Iron Cowboy James 'Iron Cowboy' Lawrence The Iron Cowboy James Lawrence is known as the Iron Cowboy. This is the nickname he received from the public after he started wearing a cowboy hat during races to be recognized by his children. Originally from Calgary, Canada, he now lives in Utah with his wife, Sunny, and their five children. With two Guinness world records under his belt, James and his family attempted to do something every person deemed impossible, the 50/50/50. But that didn’t fulfill him. So, as of June 8, 2021, James completed what the team likes to call the Conquer 100. One hundred consecutive full-distance triathlons. This journey was created to empower people worldwide to do their own hard. Sports Illustrated ranked James in the top 50 fittest freaks with Lebron James and Connor McGregor, 2 of James' favorite athletes. RedBull declares that 'when it comes to endurance, he is unstoppable' and Success magazine named him 'The Most Enduring Man In The World.' He has redefined the definition of impossible, defied logic, and is here today to share his journey with you: ladies and gentlemen, James Lawrence, The Iron Cowboy. TOPICS Going all in. Breaking through mental and physical barriers. Be uniquely you. Belief and conviction on your journey. Mind over matter. Teamwork > One man's feat Get your priorities straight. What's your why? No goal is too big - you just need the proper steps. BOOKS Redefine Impossible PAST CLIENTS Dell Google Microsoft McDonalds Visa Johnson & Johnson Proctor and Gamble Farmers Insurance Coke National Football League (NFL) Nike Toyota