Motivation & Inspiration
Personal Stories
Personal Stories:
Entrepreneur, Author & Philanthropist
Chris Gardner is an entrepreneur whose autobiography, the Pursuit of Happyness, became a best seller and the inspiration for the movie of the same name. His talks aim to help others achieve their full potential.
Abuse & Homelessness Survivor, Author of CinderGirl
Empowering others with her inspiring life story, Christina Meredith survived sexual, mental and emotional abuse, incest, trauma, aging out of foster care, poverty and homelessness to forge a life committed to helping others.
Founder & President, World Without Hate, 9/11 Hate-Crime Survivor
Rais Bhuiyan has a remarkable story — one that continually inspires people to interview him about his campaign, World Without Hate. His captivating speeches educate others on the regenerative power of forgiveness.
NYT Best-Selling Author & Motivational Leader
Moore energizes audiences with his remarkable personal story of overcoming adversity through education, embracing personal responsibility and emerging as an inspirational leader.
Brother of George Floyd & Activist
On May 26, 2020, Floyd learned that his older brother, George “Perry” Floyd, Jr. had been murdered by four police officers in Minneapolis after a store clerk alleged that he passed a counterfeit $20 bill.
Award-Winning Actress, Producer & Equal Rights Advocate
With various ‘firsts’ in her already impressive career, Laverne Cox is a four-time Emmy- nominated actress, Emmy-winning producer, and a prominent equal rights advocate and public speaker.
Actor, Author & Patient Advocate
As an actor and author, Taylor has captivated audiences with her unique blend of talent, humor, authenticity and inspiring personal story of survival and resilience.
One of Wall Street’s First Black Women Traders
From humble Southern beginnings to breaking barriers on Wall Street, Martina Marshall Edwards is the epitome of not allowing your circumstances to determine your outcome.
Author, Miracles from Heaven
Christy Beam is the author of Miracles from Heaven, a NYT bestseller that was adapted into a major motion picture starring Jennifer Garner and Queen Latifah.
Human-Centered Thought Leader, Bestselling Author & Managing Director at Seramount
Steve Pemberton is a visionary human-centered thought leader and the Founder and CEO of The Lighthouse Academy.
Subject of the Disney+ film Safety
The Disney+ film Safety shares Ray Ray’s story as a shining example of perseverance triumphing through repeated adversity and the message of family above everything.
Inspirational Educator & Author
Erin Gruwell helped students "written off" by the system harness the power of education to graduate high school. Her dedication to her students resulted in the publication of The Freedom Writers Diary.
World-Renowned Neurosurgeon & Neuroscientist
Mexican immigrant Quiñones-Hinojosa went from migrant worker to head of brain tumor surgery at Johns Hopkins. His incredible story is being developed into a movie by Brad Pitt and Disney.
Founder & Chief Executive Officer Scholly
Raised in poverty and determined to help others go to college, Gray sparked the biggest fight in Shark Tank history with Scholly, his breakthrough app that helps students find scholarships.
Snowboarder & Founder of Adaptive Action Sports
After going through a life-altering experience, Amy Purdy attained goals that even those who have both legs struggle to achieve. Today, she is one of the top ranked adaptive snowboarders in the world.
Animal Scientist & Autism Self-Advocate
The most accomplished adult with autism in the world, Grandin inspired the HBO film Temple Grandin (starring Claire Danes). Grandin shares the challenges and successes of her fascinating life.
Olympic/Paralympic Games Medalist
Patrick “Blake” Leeper is an eight-time Paralympic Track and Field international medalist, world record holder and three-time American record holder.
Subject of the Movie Stronger, Boston Marathon Bombing Hero & Best-Selling Author
A survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing and a national hero, Jeff Bauman shares his story in a presentation that will inspire. He is the subject of the movie Stronger starring Jake Gyllenhaal, based on his best-selling book of the same name.
Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor
Abbott’s life changed forever when she was struck by bomb shrapnel and lost her left leg. She captivates audiences with her inspirational story of pain, anger, optimism and resilience.
Chief of Staff to Chief Content Officer, Netflix
As Obama’s personal aide, Ferial Govashiri spent the past 10 years within arm’s length of one of the world’s most powerful leaders. She is now the Chief Of Staff to Chief Content Officer at Netflix.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist, Author
The author of Life, Animated (inspiration for the Academy Award nominated film of the same name) shares his journey of connecting with his son, who has autism, through Disney movies.
NFL Defensive End & Childhood Cancer Advocate
Devon Still is a professional athlete, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and advocate for childhood cancer awareness.
Founder Of Media Platform Swaay
Iman Oubou is a Moroccan American self-made entrepreneur, former beauty queen and a published scientist, on a mission to change the women's media landscape.
Teacher & Student Inspirational Speakers
Donna Porter and DJ Batiste have a story that is sure to inspire all audiences. Porter has dedicated her life to the field of education and changed DJ Batiste’s life by introducing him to Conscious Discipline.
Former White House Senior Advisor
Rising from the depths of extreme poverty, Omarosa was the only African American senior advisor to the 45th President of the US Donald Trump and is one of the most dynamic keynotes in the speaking world today.
Writer, Performer & Consultant
Whether ALOK is selling out an international performance tour, publishing essays and books advocating for LGBTQ equality, designing a new fashion collection, or speaking about a 21st century approach to gender rights – their distinctive mix of charisma, poetry, and intellect has made them one of the most dynamic artists of our times.
Authors, Storytellers & Advocates
Twins Sarah Eagle Heart and Emma Eagle Heart-White are members of the Oglala Lakota Nation and grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, where they learned Native American storytelling traditions.
Founders of I AM ALS, Health Care Activists & Movement-Builders
In 2017, Brian was given a terminal diagnosis, ALS. Having met on the Obama campaign in 2008 and worked in the White House, they responded by building the most powerful patient and caregiver-led movement since the fight against HIV.
Gracie Award-Winning Media Personality, Motivational Speaker & Boy's Prep Basketball Coach
For nearly two decades, Gracie Award-Winning media personality and basketball coach, MalaniKai has dedicated her life to training and mentoring youth and daring to speak her mind on radio and television.
Award-Winning Investigative Journalist at NBC News & Criminal Legal Reform Activist
In 2002, Dan Slepian, award-winning NBC News journalist and veteran producer of its newsmagazine Dateline, received a letter from Jon-Adrian "JJ" Velazquez, a man incarcerated and serving 25 years to life in person for a crime he didn’t commit.
Major League Pitcher and Gold Medal Olympian
Though born without a right hand, Jim Abbott went on to become a Major League Baseball pitcher who now shares a powerful message of overcoming adversity.
Former U.S. Navy Commander, Leadership Expert & Gen Z Engagement Strategist
Known for his innovative leadership style, former Navy commander Mike Abrashoff turned the worst-performing ship in the fleet to the best by changing his leadership style and the culture - not the crew
TIME Women of the Year 2023, Journalist, Activist & Author
Masih Alinejad is an Iranian-American journalist and women’s rights activist who gained worldwide attention when she removed her veil, or hijab, and posted a photo on her Facebook page standing proudly with her hair blowing in the wind.
Writer & Performer
Writer and performer Jenny Allen has been delighting audiences and readers for many years. “I Got Sick Then I Got Better,” her solo show about being diagnosed and successfully treated for ovarian cancer, opened in New York to rave reviews.
"Real Housewife" & NYT Best-Selling Author
Taylor Armstrong stars in Bravo's hit reality show The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. She survived domestic abuse at the hands of her late, estranged husband, a story she shares in the book Hiding from Reality.
Expert on Inclusive Growth, Impact Innovation & Employee Engagement Through Purpose
After escaping the devastating effects of the Asian Tsunami in his home country of Sri Lanka, Fortune 500 executive Afdhel Aziz struggled with PTSD and Survivor Guilt: why had he survived and what was his Purpose in life?
Author, Entrepreneur & Paralympian
Although physically challenged, Lloyd Bachrach has never let anything keep him from achieving his dreams. He turned his challenge into a strength by excelling in a variety of sports and taking his confidence to others seeking a positive message.
Co-Founder, NYCNext & MaryamB LLC, Award-Winning Chief Marketing Officer
A purpose-driven CMO who led four major businesses through sweeping transformation and growth, Banikarim captured national attention with her viral NYTimes essay on taking a "pause" at the height of her highly successful career.
Entrepreneur, Veteran & Bestselling Author
The founder of an NGO and a former Marine, Rye Barcott has the distinction of being both a warrior and a peacemaker, a juxtaposition he explores in the memoir It Happened on the Way to War.
Olympic Silver Medalist & Motivational Speaker
An Olympic silver medalist in cycling, Dotsie Bausch is in her fifteenth year of racing. She is known for being a knowledgeable coach, enthusiastic motivator and trusted resource for guidance.
Social Services Advocate, Community Activist
A vibrant community activist, Lonise Bias has turned the losses of her two sons (including basketball star Len Bias) into a calling to help remedy the social ills of today.
Former Running Back, Pittsburgh Steelers
Rocky Bleier overcame severe combat wounds to play for the Steelers. His story is a tale of courage on both the football fields of America and the battlefields of Vietnam.
Bestselling Author of Molly’s Game
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.
First African American Astronaut
As the first African American astronaut, Guion S. Bluford logged over 688 hours in space. He is now president of the Aerospace Technology Group.
Motivator & Singer-Songwriter
Made famous by The Glee Project, Mario Arnauz Bonds overcame a childhood marked by blindness, abuse, and abandonment to become a sought-after motivational speaker and singer-songwriter.
CEO of Robin Hood
Richard is the CEO of Robin Hood and former Chief Executive Officer of Achievement First, a network of 37 public charter schools providing an excellent education to 15,000 students across New York, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Top Inspirational Speaker, Bestselling Author, Wheelchair Athlete & Successful Entrepreneur
Scott brings the concepts of Vision, Mindset and Grit to life using his life-changing story. Three powerful words, when put into action, will help you Stand Up to Any Challenge.
Trauma Survivor & Internationally Recognized Trauma Informed Care Expert
Tonier works tirelessly to raise the awareness about trauma informed care around the world. Tonier is an advocate and educator, speaking all over the world on trauma, addiction, incarceration, homelessness, substance abuse and mental health.
World Adventurer, Sportsman & Explorer
Lebanon’s foremost sportsman and adventurer, Maxime Chaya was the first person from his country to hoist its flag atop Everest (2006).
Entrepreneur & Cancer Survivor
With two successful businesses, four rounds of cancer (so far!), and one brain aneurysm under her belt, Courtney Clark is the luckiest unlucky person in the world.
Former Broadcaster & Professional Baseball Player
Roberto Clemente, Jr. is a universally respected philanthropist, humanitarian, entrepreneur, producer, former broadcaster, and professional baseball player.
Environmental Activist, Documentary Filmmaker & Host
Céline Cousteau is an environmental activist, international speaker, documentary filmmaker, facilitator, and author committed to sharing the vital message of interconnectivity between humans and the natural world.
TED Speaker & Space Exploration Engineer
As a child, Nagin Cox had a dream of exploring space. And through incredible determination, a fighting spirit and a never-quit attitude, she has done just that. Cox has been a spacecraft operations engineer at NASA’s JPL for over 2 decades.
Olympic Gold Medalist, Goalie, 1980 USA “Miracle on Ice” Hockey Team
Jim Craig is best known as the backbone of the 1980 Olympic Gold Medal Hockey Team, whose ‘Miracle’ win was voted by Sports Illustrated as the greatest moment in sports history of the 21st century.
America’s First Latina Fighter Pilot
Turned away from flight school because she was a woman, Custodio went on to break barriers (including the sound barrier) as the first Latina USAF pilot and commercial pilot for American Airlines.
Rabbi & Survivor of Synagogue Hostage Crisis
Charlie Cytron-Walker became the new rabbi at Temple Emanuel in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on July 1, 2022. He is a nationally recognized leader on combatting antisemitism and building strong interreligious relationships.
“The Most Connected Man on Earth”
A modern-day story of rebirth and redemption, Dancy shares wisdom and insight on how to improve and transform our lives by paying attention to the relationship between how we move and how it all makes us feel.
Shark Attack Survivor & Shark Week Star
An Australian Navy diver who lost two limbs in a brutal shark attack that changed his life, de Gelder now inspires others to overcome obstacles and champions shark conservation.
World Class Magician & 2x Pro Bowl NFL Player
Jon Dorenbos played 14 seasons in the NFL as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2016, Jon competed on America’s Got Talent where he showcased his skills as a sleight-of-hand magician.
Comedian, Writer & Host
Ophira Eisenberg is a standup comic, storyteller and host of NPR’s national comedy-trivia show Ask Me Another where she interviews and plays silly games with celebrities.
NASA Aerospace Engineer, Defense Tech Strategist, Program Manager & STEM Educator
Named one of the top 50 minority women in science and engineering, Ericsson is the first African-American woman to receive a Ph.D. in engineering from NASA’s Goddard Flight Center.
Deaf LGBTQ+ Writer, Producer & Actor
Deaf since birth, Josh Feldman is a writer, producer, and actor living and working in Los Angeles, California who is passionate about telling stories that feature intersectional, diverse, LGBTQ+ characters.
Best-Selling Author & Screenwriter
Antwone Fisher is the screenwriter and real-life subject of the Hollywood hit Antwone Fisher, directed by Denzel Washington. The film tells the story of his childhood at the hands of the foster care system.
Founder, Everybody Fights
George "Monk" Foreman III is an entrepreneur, boxing trainer/coach, and son of the legendary businessman and former two-time heavyweight champion George Foreman Sr.
Inventor, CEO of Jara & Forbes 30 Under 30
Soraya Fouladi is the Founder & CEO of Jara, on a mission to ensure the 816 Million children in high-poverty and low-connectivity communities globally can get access to a quality education, anywhere, anytime, through her invention, the Jara Unit.
Actor, Comedian & Writer
One of Hollywood’s fastest rising young talents, Jermaine Fowler can most recently be seen in RETREAT for FX. He can previously be seen in Tim Story’s feature, THE BLACKENING, which premiered at TIFF in 2022.
Former MLB Player & Born-Again Christian
Jeff Francoeur is a veteran Major League Baseball player and an extraordinary example of hard work, passion and persistence. In his motivating presentations, Francoeur doesn’t shy away from the highs and lows of his career.
Co-Founder of Black Lives Matter
Alicia Garza is someone who believes that black communities deserve what all communities deserve — to be powerful in every aspect of their lives. That’s what drives Garza as an innovator, strategist, internationally recognized organizer and writer.
Host of NBC’s American Ninja Warrior & CBS’s The Talk
Akbar is the host of NBC’s four time Emmy nominated series American Ninja Warrior, Universal Kid’s spin off show, American Ninja Warrior Jr.
Afghan American Actress & Activist
Azita Ghanizada began her journey to the U.S. as a political refugee when her family fled Afghanistan, where they gained asylum. It was the world of TV that captured her imagination and set her on a strictly tabooed path for a girl from Afghanistan.
Singer/Songwriter
For more than 35 years, Debbie Gibson has been a true pioneer and force in the entertainment industry. A singer, songwriter, producer, musician, actor, and entrepreneur, she embodies what it truly means to be an icon.
1st Legally Blind D1 Athlete & Ex NFL Free Agent
Aaron Golub is a professional speaker, entrepreneur, and consultant. He became the first legally blind division one athlete to play in a game when he played football at Tulane University.
Intersectional Activist & Co-Founder of March For Our Lives
X González (they/them) is a gun-violence prevention activist born and raised in Parkland, Florida. A survivor of the Marjory Stoneman-Douglas High School shooting, X became a leading voice in the gun-violence prevention movement.
Edgy Expert on Equity, Trainer & Author
Risha Grant is diversity personified. From her race, gender and lifestyle choices, to being a young, small business owner and tackling economic issues, every area of her life intersects diversity.
Parkland Parent & Founder of Orange Ribbons for Jaime
Fred Guttenberg is an activist against gun violence. His 14-year-old daughter Jaime Guttenberg was killed in the Parkland school shooting. Fred and his wife started a nonprofit organization dedicated to Jaime’s life called “Orange Ribbons for Jaime.”
Bravo’s Top Chef & Top Chef: All Stars
Carla Hall first won over audiences when she competed on Bravo’s Top Chef and Top Chef: All Stars and shared her philosophy to always cook with love.
2X Olympic Judo Gold Medalist & MMA Fighter
Kayla Harrison made history as the first American to win two gold medals in Judo. A survivor herself, she founded the Fearless Foundation to help survivors of child sexual abuse through education and sport.
Helping Teams & Individuals Overcome Adversity
Austin Hatch is a walking miracle who survived two plane crashes in the span of 8 years. He launched his entrepreneurial venture Overcome It in 2019 and has since spoken to organizations across the country about his road to recovery.
Former NASA Astronaut & Inspiration for A Million Miles Away
Former NASA engineer Jose Hernandez wanted to fly in space ever since he heard that the first Hispanic-American had been chosen to travel into space. That hard work paid off when Hernandez was selected to begin training as a mission specialist.
Former NBA Player / Addiction Recovery Advocate
A hometown basketball legend, Chris Herren realized his dream of playing for the Celtics only to lose it all to addiction. He shares his story in Basketball Junkie & the ESPN documentary Unguarded.
New York Times Bestselling Author of Rocket Girls
New York Times bestselling author Nathalia Holt enthuses audiences with her inspiring narratives of women who have defied the odds, broken barriers, and made history.
Host, Inside Mental Health Podcast, Author & Bipolar Advocate
Gabe Howard is an award-winning podcast host, author, and sought-after speaker, but he wouldn’t be any of those things today if he hadn’t been committed to a psychiatric hospital and diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2003.
First Female U.S. Navy Four-Star Admiral
A ground-breaking leader during her 35-year career in the U.S. Navy, Michelle Howard was the first woman to achieve the rank of four-star admiral and the first woman to be appointed to the position of vice chief of naval operations.
Activist & Survivor
Alice is an icon for the prison reform movement and a humble servant who embraces gratitude and God for her freedom. She recalls all of the firsts she has experienced through her activism and provides an authentic portrait of mass incarceration.
American Gymnast & Entrepreneur
There’s no doubt about it. Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson East is a champion. But it’s about so much more than excelling at her chosen sport of gymnastics.
Best-Selling True Crime Author & Journalist
Jones is a best-selling true crime author and journalist who uses her reporter’s hunch to investigate high-profile crimes and murder cases. Through her eyes, Jones sheds light on the dark motives and emotional truths lurking behind the headlines.
MSNBC Political Analyst, Host of the Fast Politics Podcast & Vanity Fair Special Correspondent
Molly Jong-Fast is an American writer, journalist, author, political commentator, and podcaster. Jong-Fast is the author of two novels; Normal Girl and The Social Climber's Handbook, and her memoir will be coming out from Viking in spring 2025.
International Inspirational Speaker, TEDx Speaker, Expert on Creating Enduring Success & Founder of Enduring Success Strategies
Trish is proof that true success—enduring success—comes from making a choice. We each have the power to make that choice and achieve enduring success, no matter the obstacles.
Resilience Mode Founder, Inspirational Leader, Author & Justice Advocate
You would probably be incredibly angry after spending nearly a quarter of a century in prison before being exonerated for a crime you didn’t commit. But not Ricky Kidd. Instead, Ricky focused on the positive—no matter how unfairly he was treated.
Son of Martin Luther King, Jr. & Civil Rights Activist
As the oldest son of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III serves as an ambassador of his parent’s legacy of nonviolent social change.
Award-Winning Artist & Subject of the Hulu Series, Woke
Keith Knight is one of the funniest and most highly regarded cartoonists in America, and the creator of three popular comic strips. His life and cartoons are the inspiration of the Hulu streaming-series Woke, which he also co-created.
Survivor of Cleveland Kidnappings
As one of the women who escaped from the Cleveland home of Ariel Castro after 11 years of captivity, torture and abuse, Michelle Knight has risen out of darkness and trauma to captivate audiences around the world with her incredible story.
Best-Selling WSJ Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Entrepreneur & Professor
For more than three decades, Patrick Leddin, PhD has been leading teams and studying leadership.
Grief Advocate, Entrepreneur & Bestselling Author
Marisa Renee Lee is a called upon grief advocate, entrepreneur, and bestselling author of Grief is Love: Living with Loss.
Founder and CEO of Hollywood Unlocked, Multimedia Powerhouse and Self-Made Entrepreneur
Multimedia powerhouse and self-made entrepreneur Jason Lee’s success has nothing to do with luck. Life tried to underestimate Lee. Life has learned its lesson.
Speaker on Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
Susan Levine has been in the financial services industry for most of her career. That all changed when she suffered a suicide attempt in NYC, which left her a double amputee, having lost her right arm above the elbow and her left leg above the knee.
Entrepreneur & Sales Expert
Weldon Long is a successful entrepreneur, sales expert and author of the NY Times Bestseller, The Power of Consistency – Prosperity Mindset Training for Sales and Business Professionals.
Heart Inspired Speaker, Leadership Consultant & Author
Dr. Luff is an overcomer! As the son of a single-parent housekeeper, he was homeless in high school but went on to become a first-generation college graduate three times over despite being told that he was not college material.
Award-Winning Journalist & Health Advocate
At 39, while doing a story of heart disease, Joan Lunden failed the heart health test. With determination to transform her life, she lost 50 pounds and became an activist for The American Heart Association.
Bestselling Author of the Award-Winning Book Dear William
David Magee is the bestselling author of the award-winning book Dear William: A Father’s Memoir of Addiction, Recovery, Love and Loss (2021), a Publisher’s Weekly national bestseller featured on CBS Mornings.
Food Enthusiast
Simon Majumdar is a world-renowned broadcaster, food writer, speaker, author and cook who has dedicated the second half of his time on this planet to fulfill his ambition to “Go Everywhere, Eat Everything.”
Social Justice Leader & Movement Strategist
Tamika D. Mallory is a Harlem born award-winning social justice leader, activist and mother. Quick-witted, strategic, and bold, Tamika speaks truth to power no matter the consequences. She is being hailed as one of the most influential Black voices.
Emmy-Nominated Storyteller, Classically-Trained Opera Singer & On Tour with NPR's "The Moth"
Prepare to embark on a powerful and inspiring journey with Deonna Marie as she shares her incredible story of triumph over adversity.
Iconic Storyteller for Leaders & Changemakers — Celebrated Artist, Burn Survivor, Entrepreneur, Encourager
Hailed as “life-changing,” “extraordinary,” and “bold” by audiences worldwide, Allison Massari’s motivational and artistic message of courage, compassion and perseverance inspires participants.
Bestselling Author, Poet & Advocate
Aija Mayrock is a bestselling author, poet, and advocate. Forbes Magazine wrote about Aija Mayrock, “With hundreds of thousands of social media followers, Aija Mayrock uses writing and performing to connect, educate, and advocate...”
Founder of Morgan Latimer Consulting
A former abuse victim and foster kid straight outta Compton, Anthony D. Mays wears many hats as a public speaker, DEI consultant, writer, tech career coach, and software engineer.
Inspirational Speaker, Author & Longest Held Captive of Al Qaeda
Stephen's talk is a story about resilience and overcoming adversity amidst harsh weather conditions, a different culture, language and religion. He talks about making important decisions, about the importance of acceptance and communication.
Best-Selling Author, Creator and Host of Podcasts “Thanks for Asking” & It’s Going To Be OK”
How are you? Nora McInerny wants to know the truth. TED speaker known for her viral talk; Nora specializes in making space for emotional honesty and difficult conversations.
Courageous Pioneer & Combat-Proven Leader
Colonel Martha E. McSally is a pioneering combat-proven leader and celebrated author. McSally is a compelling example of overcoming adversity and fear to achieve extraordinary feats.
Executive Director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition
Desmond Meade is a formerly homeless returning citizen who overcame many obstacles to eventually become the President of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC).
Acclaimed Cinematic Pioneer & CalArts Faculty
Considered a cinematic feminist pioneer and one of America’s foremost independent filmmakers, Menkes has shown widely in major international film festivals including multiple premieres at Sundance, the Berlinale, Cannes and more.
Bilingual TV Personality & Life Coach
Television star Rosie Mercado is capturing hearts and imaginations across the globe with her compelling story, electric persona and breathtaking beauty.
Author, Activist & Force Behind Erin's Law
As a victim of sexual abuse, Merryn now travels around the country giving a voice to the voiceless and shares he inspiring story, pushing for Erin's Law to pass in every state.
Chairman, Jordan Brand Advisory Board
Best known for leading Nike’s Jordan Brand from a $150 million sneaker company to a $4 billion global apparel juggernaut, Larry Miller is one of the most successful Black executives in the country.
Retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant & Advocate for Veterans and Amputees
Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees.
Best-Selling Author, Entrepreneur & Confidence Creator
Confidence is the one thing that will change everything. Heather Monahan’s life and career are proof positive. After 20 years shattering glass ceilings, Heather, a.k.a., “Boss in Heels” has dedicated herself to helping others shift mindsets.
Human Rights Activist & Nobel Peace Prize Laureate; President & Chairwoman of Nadia’s Initiative
Human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Nadia Murad became a leading advocate for survivors of genocide and sexual violence after surviving the horrific Yazidi Genocide in Iraq carried out by the Islamic State (ISIS).
2021 Nobel Peace Prize Winner & Editor-in-Chief of Novaya Gazeta
Dmitry Muratov is a Russian journalist who, as editor in chief of the newspaper Novaya Gazeta, was a vocal advocate for an independent press and known for investigating abuses of power. In 2021 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace, cited for his “efforts to safeguard freedom of expression.”
Inspirational Speaker & Best-Selling Author
Formerly homeless, Liz Murray transformed her life of despair into an inspiring journey of determination, hope and hard-won success. Lifetime produced a movie about Murray’s life story entitled Homeless to Harvard, which was nominated for three Emmys.
Organizational Thought Leader, Expert on Rejection & Best-Selling Author
As the CEO and publisher of College Magazine, the trusted guide to navigating college, reaching millions of readers, Amanda Nachman empowers young professionals to achieve a career they love.
Akshay Nanavati is a U.S. Marine veteran, author, global explorer, and resilience expert who has conquered drug addiction in high school, PTSD, alcoholism, and near-suicidal despair after fighting the war in Iraq.
Journalist & Author
Judith Newman is the author of the bestseller To Siri With Love, a collection of illuminating stories about life with a fourteen-year-old boy with autism.
Creator of Go! Go! Sports Girls Dolls & Books
An expert in creating change, Jodi Bondi Norgaard shares her entrepreneurial journey of passion. She is the founder and creator of the award-winning Go! Go! Sports Girls line of dolls, books and apps for girls.
Author of KooKooLand
Gloria Norris’s heartbreaking and hilarious memoir, KooKooLand, was named a best book of the year by NPR. Some of the issues Gloria has spoken passionately about include domestic violence and mental health issues.
Best Selling Author & Addiction Recovery Speaker
Brandon was a professional skateboarder discovered by Tony Hawk, rose to fame on the hit MTV show Viva la Bam, and the movies Jackass, got hooked on heroin for 20 years, wrote the addiction memoir, Dreamseller, and it became a best seller on Amazon.
Emmy-Award Winning Host of This Old House & Ask This Old House
Kevin O’Connor is the Emmy-award winning host of the PBS series This Old House and Ask This Old House and has been on the shows since 2003. Kevin also hosted shows for Roku, the DIY network, and The History Channel.
Actor, Comedian, Author, Game Show Host & Television Personality
John O'Hurley is best known as J. Peterman on Seinfeld, the #1 syndicated television show in the world, for which he won a Screen Actor’s Guild Award. This year is the 20th Anniversary of the NBC Dog Show (32 million viewers) which he hosts.
1st Actively & Openly Serving Transgender U.S. Military Member
Shane Ortega is a human rights equity advocate, diversity educator, fitness model, DJ, and mixed-media artist. He/they are retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and Marine Corps Veteran.
Victim of Brain Injury - Mathematical Marvel
When Padgett was attacked by muggers outside a karaoke club ten years ago, he thought he was going to die. Repeatedly kicked in the head, his brain trauma caused him to develop a mysterious mathematical gift.
Author of The Assertive Parent, Support Coach & Mental Health Educator
Daniel Patterson empowers people to discover their hope for the future through a powerful story of personal recovery and reinvention. Since he began his recovery journey, he has established two successful multi-million companies.
Ironman Champion Triathletes
The story of Kyle & Brent Pease will inspire you to find your finish, to define for us all what is truly possible. Kyle, born with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy has never stopped striving for his very best.
Extreme Adventurer, Award-Winning Author & International Keynote Speaker
Neal Petersen has completed two amazing journeys in his life: a single-handed yacht race around the world, 27,000 miles, 9 months at sea, alone, and in the smallest, least-funded yacht, he designed and built himself.
High Wire Artist & Master of the Impossible
From his legendary 1974 high wire walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center to an Oscar-nominated film and highly viewed TED Talk, Renaissance man Philippe Petit continues to amaze the world with his artistry and eloquence as a speaker.
Legendary Keyboardist
Greg Phillinganes is one of the world’s most sought-after Keyboard artists. A Detroit native and music veteran for over 40 years, he began his career in 1975 with Stevie Wonder as part of his band, Wonderlove.
Emmy Award-Winning Co-Anchor of ABC's Nightline & Best-Selling Author
Byron Pitts is an award-winning journalist who has covered some of the most horrific and dangerous news stories in the world, from Sept. 11 to Hurricane Katrina to the Boston Marathon to wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Keynote Speaker & Blind Golf Champion
As a renowned keynote speaker and blind golf champion, Jeremy inspires audiences to achieve the extraordinary.
Former Teacher & Elementary Principal
Toby Price is a former teacher and elementary principal. He is a husband, an educator, a writer, a story teller, an artist, and the King of Dad Jokes.
Emmy Award-Winning Author, Musician & Workforce Expert
Clint Pulver is an Emmy Award-winning, motivational keynote speaker, author, musician, and workforce expert. He’s also fun, dynamic, entertaining – and the no-stress speaker clients love to work with.
ABC News Veteran, Creator & Host, What Would You Do?
A lifetime of “never taking no for an answer” took Quiñones from migrant farm work to the anchor desk at 20/20 and Primetime and creating, What Would You Do?, the hit show he hosts.
Mental Health and Addiction Awareness Advocate, Star of Bravo's Summer House & Social Entrepreneur
TV viewers will recognize Carl Radke for his big personality in his breakout role on Bravo's hit series Summer House. Since joining the show in its first season, he has become a fan favorite for his candidness.
Gold Medal Gymnast & Advocate
Aly Raisman, team captain of the gold medal winning Women’s Gymnastics teams in 2012 and 2016, is the third most decorated American gymnast of all-time.
DEI Expert, Bestselling Author & Award-Winning Former Nonprofit Leader
Ruth Rathblott is an expert on inclusion and diversity. She is a TEDx and inspirational speaker, bestselling author, and an award-winning former nonprofit leader.
CEO of Raymond Insurance & Author
Benjamin Raymond has refined the art of recreating a life filled with purpose in spite of one’s past circumstances. As a former captain of a basketball team from University of Minnesota, Benjamin learned the importance of hard work and leadership.
Navy SEAL & Best-Selling Author
Retired Navy SEAL Jason “Jay” Redman is the author of The Trident: The Forging and Reforging of a Navy SEAL Leader, which captures his 21-year career and journey in leadership serving with the US Navy SEAL teams.
Member of the Exonerated 5
April 19, 1989 changed 14-year-old Kevin D. Richardson's life and American society forever. After the brutal attack and sexual assault of jogger Trisha Ellen Meili in Central Park, the NY Police Department arrested suspects, including Richardson.
Creator of the 5 Second Rule
Mel Robbins is the co-founder of Inspire52 and an award-winning CNN commentator and legal analyst. In her motivational presentations, Robbins speaks at events around the world on human behavior and leadership.
“Skid Row CEO” & Inspirational Leadership Speaker
Joe Roberts embodies the power of possibility. Celebrated in national media as the “Skid Row CEO,” his astounding transformation from substance abuse and homelessness to leading executive has inspired countless audiences.
Space Diplomat, Astronaut, Explorer & Artist
Namira Salim has an unusual nickname: “Collector of Firsts.” And there is good reason for it. Namira is the first Pakistani astronaut, the first astronaut from Monaco and the first female astronaut from the UAE.
Original Chick-fil-A Marketing Executive
David Salyers was one of the original two marketing executives at Chick-fil-A. He spent 37 years in the Chick-fil-A Marketing Department and most recently served as a Vice President before his recent retirement.
Former Managing Director of Black Lives Matter Global Network
Kailee is a global strategist, champion of social justice, and public speaker. She has served as the former Managing Director of Black Lives Matter Global Network.
Best-Selling Author & Accomplished Entertainment Executive
After overcoming a childhood of adversity, Tara Schuster quickly rose up the ranks of Comedy Central where she rocketed upwards to become the youngest Vice President of Talent and Development at the network.
Filmmaker, Media Strategist & Activist
Schwartzman is a documentary film director who uses storytelling and technology to create safer communities for women and girls. Roll Red Roll is her feature film debut, and goes beyond the notorious Steubenville, OH high school sexual assault case.
Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor & Author
A Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor and amputee, Roseann is making strides in changing lives. She combines her powerful story of perseverance with her professional corporate background, offering lessons learned.
Recovering Addict & Subject of Beautiful Boy
Nic Sheff’s heartbreaking and inspiring struggle with substance abuse disorder is the story of Beautiful Boy, a major motion picture starring Timothée Chalamet as Nic and Steve Carrell as his father, David.
EMMY Award Winning Director & 5x Nominated Producer, Filmmaker
Founder of Extrovert Entertainment, “M” Douglas Silverstein is a director, producer, and filmmaker who has produced live concerts for the likes of Green Day, Taylor Swift, The Country Music Hall of Fame, and The United Nations.
"The Wolfette of Wallstreet"
Affectionately known as the "Wolfette Of Wallstreet," at just 28, Lauren Simmons made history becoming the youngest trader on the NYSE floor, and second African-American female trader to work on the exchange in over 228 years.
2x Emmy Winning ESPN Sportscaster & Addiction Prevention Advocate
Lauren Sisler is a two-time Emmy award-winning sports broadcaster who joined ESPN and SEC Network in 2016 as a sideline reporter for both college football and gymnastics.
Award-Winning Journalist at NBC News & Author of The Sing Sing Files: One Journalist, Six Innocent Men, and a Twenty-Year Fight for Justice
Dan Slepian is an award-winning journalist at NBC News and a veteran producer of its esteemed newsmagazine, Dateline. For more than two decades at NBC, Slepian has spearheaded dozens of documentaries, hidden camera investigations, and more.
Senior Astronaut, Stanford Engineer and MBA
Steve Smith made an audacious childhood dream to be an astronaut come true despite multiple setbacks. He is one of America’s most experienced astronauts with 4 spaceflights and 7 spacewalks to repair the Hubble Space Telescope.
Author & Criminal Justice Advocate
Smith attended the prestigious Hampton University, but what happened at her campus was a nightmare, and led to a 24.5-year sentence in a federal prison. In 2000, after serving 6.5 years, President Clinton commuted her sentence to time served.
Legendary Lawyer & Noted Mental Health Advocate
Rolling Out magazine calls Corey Minor Smith a “legendary lawyer, renowned attorney, noted mental health advocate, prominent media fixture, and New York Times celebrated author.”
1st African American Female Coach in NFL History
Collette V. Smith is the Founder and President of Believe N You, Inc. and the NFL’s 1st African American Female Coach in the History of the National Football League by way of being the 1st Female Coach in NY Jets Franchise History, Coaching the Defensive Backs in 2017 during Training Camp.
Founder, President & CEO of Lifeway Foods
Julie Smolyansky became the youngest female CEO of a publicly held firm at the age of 27, when she took over leadership of Lifeway Foods in 2002 after her father’s unexpected passing.
Founder and CEO of Starting Right, Now (SRN) & Author of If You See Them
Vicki Sokolik is the founder and CEO of Starting Right, Now (SRN), a pioneering nonprofit that provides social and health services to unhoused students in Florida. A CNN Hero, she has co-authored and amended legislation to pass ten bills protecting unaccompanied youth statewide.
Founder & Executive Director of the Pan-Mass Challenge
As Founder and Executive Director of the Pan-Mass Challenge, Billy Starr has dedicated 45 years to funding life-saving breakthroughs in cancer research.
American Two-Time Paralympian & Former U.S. Army Officer
Melissa was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army’s transportation corps. 1 month after being deployed to Iraq, she became the 1st female American soldier in history to lose a limb in active combat after her vehicle was hit by a bomb.
Minister & Baseball Legend
Darryl Strawberry is described as a legend by many who have been dazzled by the dynamics of his game, the power he possessed at the plate and the story of redemption that continues to bring hope to so many lives.
Autism Advocate, Star of Life Animated
Walter Suskind is a star of the 2017 Academy Award-nominated documentary, Life, Animated, which follows the twenty-year journey of his family with autism. He is also the founder of SibStrong.
Entrepreneur & Full Time Adventurer
Patrick Sweeney has always focused on building an amazing life. Patrick graduated near the top of his class and caught the entrepreneurial bug. After overcoming leukemia, Sweeney transitioned into a full-time adventurer, breaking many world records.
Disability Advocate, Educator & Best-Selling Author, Sitting Pretty
Rebekah Taussig will challenge everything you think you know about disability as she invites us into her experience of living in a body that looks and moves differently than most.
Author & Community Advocate
What is your why? What is your purpose? These two questions are asked by Logan Taylor to ensure that his audiences are maximizing their full potential. The founder of Y.B.Normal?, Taylor has spoken to thousands upon thousands of people worldwide.
Heisman Trophy Winner & Former NFL Quarterback
Tim Tebow is a two-time national champion, Heisman Trophy winner, first-round NFL draft pick, and a former professional baseball player.
Preacher & Activist
The “Original Hip-Hop Minister” Rev. Conrad Tillard has made a tremendous contribution to the advancement of African-American for nearly 30 years and yet his message is more timely today than it ever was.
Champion for Women's and Refugee Rights, First Rhodes Scholar from Afghanistan & Founder of Dosti Network
Summia Tora is the founder of Dosti Network, an organization dedicated to empowering Afghans both within Afghanistan and those living as refugees with crucial resources and education.
Olympic Champion & Chef
Deedee Trotter is a multi-champion in the sport of track and field. She is a SEC, NCAA, USA, World, and Olympic Champion. She competed in the 2004, 2008, and 2012 Olympics where she captured three Olympic medals.
White House Coronavirus Task Force Whistleblower
Olivia Troye is a risk management and national security executive whose most recent role was serving as the Homeland Security, Counterterrorism, and White House Coronavirus Task Force Advisor to the Vice President of the United States.
Criminal Legal Reform Activist
With more than 23 years of lived experience, incarcerated for a crime he did not commit, Mr. Velazquez has worked tirelessly to redefine the humanity of men who are or have been incarcerated.
Founder & CEO, Life Without Limbs
Without any medical explanation or warning, Nick Vujicic was born with neither arms nor legs. He is the founder & CEO of the nonprofit organization Life Without Limbs.
Super Bowl Champion & Former NFL Quarterback
While the football narrative of NFL quarterback Kurt Warner reads like a rags-to-riches Hollywood script, it is the story of a man filled with dignity, class, and undeniable faith that captured the imagination of the sports world and beyond.
Cultural Critic, Author & The Atlantic Contributing Writer
A cultural critic for extraordinary times, Thomas Chatterton Williams brings his insightful perspective to subjects of race, Black identity and history, cancel culture, social justice and inequality in America and the world.
Public Intellectual, Author & CNN Commentator
Theo Wilson is a founding member of the Denver Slam Nuba team, who won the 2011 National Poetry Slam. Wilson is the executive director of Shop Talk Live, Inc. The organization uses the barbershop as a staging ground for community dialogue and healing.
Three-Time Paralympic World Medalist
At only 21 years of age, Hunter Woodhall is redefining what it means to be an athlete, entrepreneur, and trailblazer, and setting a new tone for the next generation of dreamers.
Author & Journalist
After ABC News anchor Bob Woodruff was wounded in Iraq, he and his wife, speaker Lee Woodruff, penned the best-selling In an Instant to help others cope with crisis.
Award-Winning Advocate and Trans Justice Leader & Campaign Manager at the ACLU
LaLa B Zannell is an advocate, organizer, and artist working towards liberation for transgender and nonbinary communities, with a particular focus on trans women of color and trans sex workers.