I love what I do!

Through a blend of engagement, enthusiasm, humor, and inspiration, I encourage youth and adults to embrace their uniqueness, enjoy their journey, and never give up! Based in Raleigh, I will travel anywhere to inspire audiences (while making them laugh) at career expos, colleges, companies, conferences, and various other settings were humans come together. If you are seeking a speaker who loves making a difference, I'd very much welcome the chance to have a discusssion with you.

Talks & Workshops: Youth

My love for inspiring youth began in a full-time Career Services role at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in which I educated students on a variety of career management topics through individual coaching and guest speaking engagements at fraternities, sororities, classes, and clubs.  While at UCF, my dedication to making a difference was recognized when I received a nomination as a Student Affairs Outstanding Service Award Finalist.  In addition to impacting the lives of students at UCF, I've since then been a guest inspirational speaker and continuing education class instructor at Duke University, North Carolina State University, and Wake Tech Community College.

Talks & Workshops: Adults

For more than 20 years, I served as a workshop faciliator at Right Management, a globally recognized career transition (outplacement) firm. In this role, I traveled in 10 states to conduct career transition workshops designed for professionals in a variety of industries whose jobs were impacted by downsizing. Although every project was unique and memorable, the one that stands out took place over a 30-month period in which I collaborated with 18 career coaches to service 3,000 job candidates.  

In addition to facilitating outplacement workshops and giving talks on college campuses, I have been a guest speaker at events sponsored by Wake County Lifelong Learning, YMCA, Capital Area Workforce Development Board, and the Raleigh Convention & Visitor’s Bureau. One of the most exciting things I experienced took place in a 24-hour period in which I delivered two keynotes on opposite coasts; the first in California, the second in North Carolina.

Adversity

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A cornerstone of inspirational speaking is persevering through adversity. I’m an "open book" who enjoys sharing excerpts from a massive library of challenges that have put me to the test, time and time again. At age six, I was the sole witness to my adoptive dad’s death. As childhood progressed, I was bullied, came very close to drowning in the Atlantic Ocean, sustained a severe concussion playing basketball, and miraculously survived a car accident when a bus plowed through a red light. In college, I spent a semester with a roommate who practically never slept and repeatedly tried to light me on fire! 

Since college, I have endured a variety of challenges as a job candidate, employee,  and entrepreneur. As a bonus, I have been living with and learning to manage the unique dynamics of ADHD. To say my journey has resembled that of a rollarcoaster would be a massive understatement. In 2016, my search for details surrounding my biological background produced some startling revelations. Despite all I’ve been through, my enthusiasm and sense of humor are very alive and well. I love life!

Recruiting

Prior to my career in speaking and coaching, I worked in employee recruitment capacities in high-volume, fast-paced environments at three tourism industry leaders: SeaWorld, Hilton (Disney Resort), and Universal Studios. 

Education & MBTI

My Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications with an emphasis in Public Communications & Human Relations was earned at Western Illinois University. Additionally, I am certified in the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) through CPP, Inc. The MBTI is a time-tested assessment that I thoroughly enjoy incorporating into workshops on a variety of personal and professional development topics.

Testimonials

“I had the pleasure of attending Dan's presentation at a recent Triangle Networking Group meeting. Dan creatively weaved his passion for music into an energetic and engaging session around career management and transition. Dan is a dynamic speaker who not only captivates the audience, but he pulls you in as an active participant. He has this unique ability to convey complex topics in a way that truly makes sense. Plus, it's fun! Throughout the presentation, he shared his perspective and provided helpful tips on networking and managing your career. I highly recommend Dan as a motivational speaker and career coach... you won't be disappointed”

– Joe Badera

“I had the pleasure of taking several classes taught by Dan, as well as participate in an 1:1. As an trainer, he brings an incredible amount of energy and creativity to the classroom, ensuring high engagement, and causing participants to 'think outside the box'. We'll all been in classes that dragged, wondering how we could apply any of the principles taught. This is NOT the case with Dan - the time flies, and at the end, you leave with ideas that you can immediately pursue or put to use. In working with Dan 1:1, he provided very useful information and works to 'customize' the most appropriate response for your particular needs.”

– Sandy Britt Thompson