Overcoming Adversity Speakers

"Without daring greatly, you will never know what is truly possible." – Adm. William H. McRaven, USN (Ret.)

A specialist in leading effectively and operating in complexity, Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, USA (Ret.) shares experienced insight on security in a multifaceted geopolitical environment, the 21st-century challenges facing the U.S., and capturing innovation.

Sam Kass offers fresh and informative insights as he explores the latest developments in health, wellness, and the future of consumption. A tech entrepreneur, food expert and former senior policy advisor for the White House, Kass brings a...

A creative culinary innovator and exemplary business leader, José Andrés inspires people across the globe with his dynamic vision and diverse projects aimed at making the world a better place through the power of food.

A four-star Army general who led the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, Gen. Keith Alexander, USA (Ret.) played a pivotal role in securing the United States and our Allies for the past decade.

A recognized expert on Russia, U.S.-Russia relations, great power competition, and American foreign policy around the world, Michael McFaul helps audiences understand the war in Ukraine, the new Cold War with Russia and lessons from the Cold War...

The leader of the Federal Reserve during a momentous time of economic and financial crisis, Ben Bernanke offers keen insight and analysis of the current global economic landscape and challenges facing the world today.

Mallory Weggemann shares stories of triumph over setbacks stemming from a spinal cord injury at 18 and nerve damage to her arm at 24. As a 4-time Paralympian and 7-time Paralympic Medalist, she redefines and enforces what it...

Nicholas Epley shares his groundbreaking research on why we so routinely misunderstand what's going on in the minds of others, from our coworkers, customers and competitors, to even our family members and friends.

"So we must be realistic but never hopeless. Much has gone wrong. But it is in our power to put things right." – Eugene Robinson

When a roadside bomb severely injured her network journalist husband Bob Woodruff, Lee Woodruff discovered how quickly life can change—and what you can learn from surviving a crisis.

Seriously injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq, Bob Woodruff is a throwback to the reporters of years ago who brought you the news no matter what the danger.

With unparalleled knowledge and passion for environmental issues, Christine Todd Whitman shares a new— and compelling— framework on the collaboration between economic growth and environmental policy making.

A global charitable and philanthropic leader, Sarah Brown is a persuasive voice on global justice, women and children's rights and using social media to empower people to make a difference.

Lt Col Dan Rooney, USAF is founder and CEO of Folds of Honor, a foundation that provides academic scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Folds has provided over 52,000 scholarships,...

Saving his squad from the Taliban during a deadly ambush in Afghanistan, Sal Giunta shares—with unassuming humility—his courageous story and the importance of teamwork, selflessness and leadership.

One of the most admired women in journalism, Meredith Vieira offers a candid, in-depth conversation about the stories she has covered and the lessons they have taught her.

With an extraordinary record and breadth of public service, success and experience, Tom Ridge has become one of the most respected and top international security experts in the world.

Born with one leg, 2011 NCAA Champion Anthony Robles became an unstoppable force in college wrestling who now shares his strategy for success—a limitless belief in self and the motivation to do things other people wouldn't have thought...

Formerly homeless, Liz Murray transformed her life of despair into an inspiring journey of determination, hope and hard-won success.

"Be fearless. Have the courage to take risks. Go where there are no guarantees." – Katie Couric

Probably no one can inspire an audience with enthusiasm and energy and teach us lessons of life and business that transcend athletics better than the inimitable, one-of-a-kind Dick Vitale.

Hall of Fame football coach and accomplished NASCAR team owner, Joe Gibbs inspires us with his examples of leadership, teamwork, perseverance, hard work and values.

One of the nation’s most respected bipartisan leaders in recent history, Leon Panetta has devoted his career to the American people, guiding U.S. intelligence, defense and economic strategies over the past four decades.