Famous American Public Speakers

Aron Lee Ralston is an American mountaineer, mechanical engineer, and motivational speaker renowned for his remarkable survival story. Following a harrowing canyoneering accident in 2003 where he amputated his own arm to escape, Ralston's resilience and determination catapulted him into the public eye. His autobiography and the film adaptation of his experience brought him global recognition. Despite the ordeal, he continued to pursue his passion for mountaineering, achieving notable feats such as being the first person to solo ascend all of Colorado's fourteeners in winter.

Lizzie Velásquez is an accomplished American motivational speaker, activist, writer, and YouTuber. She gained recognition for her work as a speaker, sharing her personal experiences and inspiring others to overcome challenges. Velásquez's rare medical condition, Marfanoid–progeroid–lipodystrophy syndrome, has shaped her advocacy against bullying and cyberbullying. Her resilience and positive attitude have made her a leading figure in promoting self-acceptance and kindness. Through her various platforms, she continues to empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness and strive for personal growth.

Dale Carnegie was an American writer and lecturer known for developing influential courses in self-improvement, salesmanship, corporate training, public speaking, and interpersonal skills. Born into poverty, he authored several successful books, including the bestseller "How to Win Friends and Influence People" which remains popular to this day. His work emphasized the idea that one can influence and change the behavior of others by first changing one's behavior towards them. Carnegie's contributions have had a lasting impact on personal development and effective communication strategies.

Tony Robbins is a renowned American author, coach, and speaker who has made a significant impact in the field of personal development. He is best known for his dynamic seminars and empowering self-help books, such as Unlimited Power and Awaken the Giant Within. Robbins has inspired millions of individuals worldwide to take control of their lives, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals. Through his work, he has become a leading figure in the self-improvement industry, helping people unleash their full potential and live more fulfilling lives.

Kevin Mitnick was an American computer security consultant, author, and convicted hacker. He gained notoriety for his high-profile arrest in 1995 and subsequent five-year prison sentence for various computer and communications-related crimes. Following his release, Mitnick founded his own security firm, Mitnick Security Consulting, LLC, and became involved in other computer security businesses. His professional life was marked by controversy surrounding his pursuit, arrest, trial, and sentence, as well as the media coverage, books, and films that depicted his story.

Laurence Kim Peek was an American savant known as a "megasavant" for his exceptional memory. He faced social challenges likely due to a developmental disability from congenital brain abnormalities. Peek inspired the character Raymond Babbitt in the movie Rain Man. Initially diagnosed with autism, later believed to have had FG syndrome. The Utah Film Center's Peek Award commemorates his legacy, highlighting his significant contributions and impact in the field of savant abilities and cognitive disabilities.

Stedman Graham is an accomplished American educator, author, businessman, and public speaker. He is widely recognized for his expertise in leadership development and identity building. Graham has authored several books focusing on personal development and success strategies. As a prominent public speaker, he delivers motivational talks on self-improvement and empowerment. Through his professional endeavors, Graham has established himself as a respected figure in the fields of education, business, and personal development, inspiring audiences around the world.

Kyle Carpenter is a medically retired United States Marine who received the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery in Marjah, Afghanistan in 2010. He is the youngest living recipient of this prestigious award. Carpenter's heroic actions involved shielding a fellow Marine from a grenade blast, sustaining life-threatening injuries in the process. Despite facing significant challenges during his recovery, Carpenter continues to inspire others through his resilience and dedication to serving his country.

Rudy Ruettiger is an American motivational speaker and author known for his inspiring journey as a college football player for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. His determination and perseverance during his time at Notre Dame became the basis for the 1993 film Rudy. Ruettiger's story of overcoming obstacles and achieving his dream has made him a popular speaker, sharing his message of resilience and never giving up on one's goals with audiences around the world.

Stephen Covey was a renowned American educator, author, businessman, and speaker known for his impactful work in personal and professional development. His influential book, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," remains a classic in the field. Covey authored several other successful books, including "First Things First" and "Principle-Centered Leadership." Recognized as one of the most influential people by Time magazine, he also served as a professor at the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of leadership and self-improvement.

Zig Ziglar was a renowned American author, salesman, and motivational speaker known for his impactful work in the fields of personal development and sales training. He achieved widespread recognition for his inspirational speeches and books that aimed to empower individuals to achieve success and reach their full potential. Ziglar's professional legacy includes numerous best-selling books, influential sales training programs, and a lasting impact on the world of motivational speaking. His insights and teachings continue to inspire and motivate people worldwide to this day.

Bristol Palin is an American public speaker and reality TV personality. She gained recognition by competing in Dancing with the Stars, reaching the finals in 2010 and finishing third. Palin also released a memoir in 2011 and starred in her own show, Bristol Palin: Life's a Tripp, in 2012. She returned to Dancing with the Stars for its 15th season in 2012 as a celebrity contestant. Throughout her career, Palin has showcased her talents in dancing and entertainment on various television platforms.

Les Brown is an American politician and motivational speaker known for his impactful contributions to society. He served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives from 1977 to 1981, where he made significant strides in advocating for the needs of his constituents. Beyond his political career, Brown has established himself as a prominent motivational speaker, inspiring audiences worldwide with his powerful messages of empowerment and self-improvement. His dedication to public service and motivational speaking has made a lasting impact on countless individuals.

Larry Csonka is a former professional football fullback known for his successful career in the National Football League (NFL). Playing primarily for the Miami Dolphins, he achieved great success, including being part of the team's perfect season in 1972 and winning Super Bowl championships in 1972 and 1973. Csonka was a five-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro. He holds the record for most rushing yards and touchdowns in Miami Dolphins franchise history. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Csonka's jersey number was retired by the Dolphins in 2002.

Kathy Garver is an American actress known for her roles in various television shows and films. She gained recognition for her portrayal of Cissy Davis in the popular 1960s sitcom Family Affair. Additionally, she appeared in the film The Ten Commandments and provided the voice for Firestar in the animated series Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends. Garver is also an author, having written books such as The Family Affair Cookbook, Surviving Cissy: My Family Affair of Life in Hollywood, and X Child Stars: Where are They Now?.

Esther Hicks is an American inspirational speaker, channeler, and author known for co-writing nine books with her husband Jerry Hicks. She has conducted numerous workshops on the law of attraction with Abraham-Hicks Publications and made an appearance in the original version of the 2006 film The Secret. Hicks claims to channel a collective consciousness named "Abraham" and adopts a distinct voice and accent to convey the entity's messages. Through her work, she has inspired many individuals to explore the concepts of manifestation and positive thinking.

Iyanla Vanzant is a versatile professional known for her work as an inspirational speaker, lawyer, New Thought spiritual teacher, author, life coach, and television personality. She has gained recognition primarily through her impactful books, her own talk show, and appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Notably, from 2012 to 2021, she hosted OWN's Iyanla: Fix My Life, where she supported individuals seeking personal growth and healing. Vanzant's career is marked by her dedication to empowering and inspiring others through various platforms.

Richard Marcinko was a distinguished U.S. Navy SEAL commander and Vietnam War veteran, known for his pivotal role as the first commanding officer of SEAL Team Six. Following his retirement from the Navy, he transitioned into various roles including author, radio talk show host, military consultant, and motivational speaker. Marcinko's expertise and experience in special operations made him a sought-after figure in the military community, where he continued to make significant contributions through his writing, speaking engagements, and consulting work.

Jayne Kennedy Overton is a versatile American professional known for her work in television, acting, modeling, corporate representation, production, writing, public speaking, philanthropy, and sports broadcasting. With a successful career spanning multiple fields, she has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry and beyond. Her talents have allowed her to excel as a television personality, actress, and model, while also showcasing her skills as a corporate spokeswoman, producer, writer, public speaker, philanthropist, and sports broadcaster.

Miguel A. Núñez Jr. is an accomplished American actor known for his versatile performances in a variety of film and television projects. He gained recognition for his roles in popular films such as The Return of the Living Dead and Life, as well as leading roles in Juwanna Mann and Tour of Duty. Núñez has also appeared in television series like The Family Business and Sparks, showcasing his talent and range as an actor in both comedic and dramatic roles.

John C. Maxwell is an accomplished American author, speaker, and pastor renowned for his expertise in leadership development. With a prolific career spanning several decades, Maxwell has authored numerous best-selling books on leadership, including notable titles such as The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership and The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader. His work has not only garnered critical acclaim but has also resonated with a wide audience, leading to his books frequently appearing on the prestigious New York Times Best Seller list.

Michael Porter is an American academic renowned for his contributions to economics, business strategy, and social causes. He holds the prestigious position of Bishop William Lawrence University Professor at Harvard Business School and co-founded The Monitor Group and FSG. Porter is best known for developing Porter's five forces analysis, a critical tool in business strategy formulation. Widely considered the father of the modern strategy field, he is recognized as a leading authority on management and competitiveness, influencing governments, NGOs, and universities worldwide.

Stephen Edward Schmidt is an American political and corporate strategist known for his work on Republican political campaigns for figures such as President George W. Bush, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Senator John McCain. He served as a vice chair at Edelman, advising Fortune 500 corporations before moving on to become a political analyst for MSNBC. Schmidt has been a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump and the GOP, leading him to renounce the Republican Party and co-found The Lincoln Project to campaign against Trump's re-election in 2020.

Donna Rice Hughes is an American activist, author, speaker, and film producer, serving as president and chairperson of Enough Is Enough. She is recognized for her work as an Internet safety advocate and has made numerous appearances on various media platforms. Hughes gained initial notoriety in 1987 due to her involvement in a political scandal that played a role in ending the second campaign of former Senator Gary Hart for the Democratic Party nomination for president.

Mel Robbins is an accomplished American podcast host, author, and motivational speaker. With a background in law, she transitioned to a successful career in media where she is best known for her TEDx talk, "How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over." Robbins has authored popular books such as The 5 Second Rule and The High 5 Habit, which have garnered widespread acclaim. As the host of The Mel Robbins Podcast, she continues to inspire and empower audiences with her valuable insights and practical advice.

Michael Franzese, a former mobster, rose to prominence as a caporegime in the Colombo crime family. He dropped out of a pre-med program to support his family and later orchestrated a scheme to defraud the federal government of gasoline taxes. At the peak of his career, he was named one of the "Fifty Most Wealthy and Powerful Mafia Bosses" by Fortune Magazine. Despite facing legal troubles and serving prison time, Franzese eventually transitioned to a career as a motivational speaker and writer in California.

Diana Nyad is an accomplished American author, journalist, motivational speaker, and long-distance swimmer. She gained national attention for her record-breaking swims around Manhattan and from The Bahamas to Florida. Nyad has authored four books, contributed articles to various publications, hosted radio and television programs, and made notable appearances on shows like CBS News Sunday Morning and Dancing with the Stars. Despite controversy surrounding her 2013 swim from Cuba to Florida, she remains a prominent figure in the world of long-distance swimming and motivation.

Eric D. Thomas is an American motivational speaker, author, consultant, and minister known for his powerful speeches. He has gained popularity on YouTube for his inspiring talks, which have resonated with audiences worldwide. Thomas has built a successful career by sharing his insights on personal development, motivation, and achieving success. Through his work, he has inspired countless individuals to overcome challenges, set goals, and strive for excellence in their personal and professional lives.

Jim Abbott is a former American professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball for various teams from 1989 to 1999. Despite being born without a right hand, he achieved success at the major league level. Abbott graduated from Flint Central High School and was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays but chose to attend college. He won awards and accolades during his college career, including a gold medal in the 1988 Olympics. He threw a no-hitter while playing for the New York Yankees and retired with a career record of 87 wins and 108 losses. Abbott is currently a motivational speaker.

Hiawatha was a respected precolonial Native American leader and co-founder of the Iroquois Confederacy. He played a crucial role in uniting the Onondaga and Mohawk people, showcasing strong leadership skills and diplomacy. Hiawatha's professional life was characterized by his efforts to bring different tribes together, fostering peace and cooperation among them. His legacy as a skilled negotiator and peacemaker continues to be celebrated within the Iroquois Confederacy and beyond.

Chris Herren is a retired professional basketball player and motivational speaker from the United States. He had a successful career playing in the NBA and various international leagues. Known for his talent on the court, Herren also faced personal struggles with substance abuse during his playing days. Overcoming his challenges, he now shares his story to inspire others and raise awareness about addiction. As a motivational speaker, Herren travels across the country to educate and empower audiences with his message of hope and recovery.

Brian Tracy is a renowned Canadian-American motivational public speaker and self-development author with a prolific career spanning over several decades. He has authored more than eighty books, which have been translated into numerous languages worldwide. Some of his most popular works include "Earn What You're Really Worth," "Eat That Frog!," "No Excuses! The Power of Self-Discipline," and "The Psychology of Achievement." Tracy's expertise in personal development and motivational speaking has inspired countless individuals to achieve their goals and unlock their full potential.

Sean Stephenson was an American therapist, self-help author, and motivational speaker known for his resilience and positive outlook despite being born with osteogenesis imperfecta. Standing only three feet tall and relying on a wheelchair due to his fragile bones, he inspired countless individuals worldwide through his speaking engagements, books, and therapeutic work. Stephenson's professional life was dedicated to empowering others to overcome adversity, embrace their uniqueness, and live life to the fullest, leaving a lasting impact on the fields of personal development and mental health.

Richard Carlson was a versatile American actor, television, and film director known for his contributions to the entertainment industry. With a career spanning several decades, he made significant marks as a talented screenwriter. Carlson's work in film and television showcased his versatility and range as an artist. His dedication to his craft and his ability to bring characters to life on screen earned him a reputation as a respected figure in the world of entertainment.

Michael Greger is an American physician, author, and speaker focused on public health issues. He is renowned for promoting a whole-food, plant-based diet and advocating against animal-derived food products. Greger's professional life revolves around educating and raising awareness about the benefits of plant-based diets for overall health and well-being. Through his work, he aims to inspire individuals to make informed dietary choices that can positively impact their health and the environment.

Aimee Mullins is an American athlete, actress, and public speaker. Overcoming a medical condition that led to the amputation of both of her legs beneath the knee, she made history as the first amputee to compete against able-bodied athletes in NCAA events and participated in the 1996 Paralympics in Atlanta. Transitioning to modeling in 1999 and acting in 2002, she has also delivered inspiring speeches at various conferences, including TED Talks, showcasing her resilience, talent, and advocacy for inclusivity and diversity.

Cathy O'Brien is an American conspiracy theorist and author known for her claims of being a victim of government mind control programs like "Project Monarch" and CIA's MKUltra. She co-authored and self-published books like Trance Formation of America and Access Denied. Despite making assertions about being subjected to abuse and participating in illicit activities under mind control, her claims lack credible evidence and have been criticized for inconsistencies. Scholars and critics have dismissed her allegations as lacking proof and characterized her work as sensational and lacking in factual basis.

Amy Cuddy is an American social psychologist, author, and speaker known for her work on power posing. She has been a faculty member at Rutgers University, Kellogg School of Management, and Harvard Business School. Cuddy's research focuses on using the stereotype content model to analyze perceptions of stereotyped groups. While she left her tenure-track position at Harvard Business School in 2017, she still contributes to its executive education programs. Cuddy's work on power posing has garnered attention, despite some questioning its scientific validity.

Suleika Jaouad is an American writer, advocate, and motivational speaker known for her impactful work in sharing her experiences with cancer. She gained recognition through her "Life, Interrupted" column in The New York Times and contributions to publications like Vogue, Glamour, NPR's All Things Considered, and Women's Health. Her memoir "Between Two Kingdoms" became a New York Times Best Seller in 2021. Despite facing a low survival rate after a leukemia diagnosis in 2011, Jaouad persevered, inspiring others through her writing and speaking engagements, including her Emmy Award-winning column.

Leo Buscaglia, also known as "Dr. Love," was an American author, motivational speaker, and professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Southern California. He gained recognition for his inspirational teachings on the subjects of love, relationships, and personal growth. Through his books, lectures, and workshops, Buscaglia encouraged individuals to embrace love and compassion, emphasizing the importance of human connections and emotional well-being. His work had a profound impact on countless individuals seeking guidance and inspiration in their personal and professional lives.

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was a prominent American abolitionist, suffragist, poet, temperance activist, teacher, public speaker, and writer. She made significant contributions to literature, becoming one of the first African American women to be published in the United States. Harper taught at Union Seminary in Columbus, Ohio, and wrote anti-slavery literature while living with William Still, a clerk at the Pennsylvania Abolition Society. She was an active member of the American Anti-Slavery Society and established herself as a successful poet and author. Harper also held leadership positions in various national progressive organizations, advocating for social change and women's rights.

Susan Powter is an Australian-born American motivational speaker, nutritionist, personal trainer, and author known for her impactful presence in the health and wellness industry. Rising to fame in the 1990s, she popularized the catchphrase "Stop the Insanity!" through her weight-loss infomercials. Powter further showcased her expertise by hosting her own talk show, The Susan Powter Show, during the same era. Her professional endeavors have focused on inspiring and empowering individuals to lead healthier lives through her motivational speeches, fitness guidance, and written works.

Buck Angel is an American sex educator, former pornographic film actor, and founder of Buck Angel Entertainment. As a transgender man, he works as an advocate and educator, focusing on promoting sexual freedom as a fundamental human right. Angel served on the board of directors of the Woodhull Freedom Foundation from 2010 to 2016, contributing to advocacy and education efforts in affirming sexual freedom. Through his professional endeavors, Buck Angel has made significant contributions to promoting awareness and understanding of transgender issues and sexual rights.

Richard Bandler is an American writer, consultant, and public speaker known for his work in the field of self-help. Alongside John Grinder, he co-founded the controversial neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) approach to psychotherapy during the 1970s. Despite its popularity, NLP is often criticized for being pseudoscience. Bandler's professional life has been largely focused on promoting NLP as a tool for personal development and therapy, leading workshops, writing books, and delivering lectures on the subject.

Erin Gruwell is an American teacher recognized for her innovative teaching approach that inspired the publication of The Freedom Writers Diary in 1999. This publication documented how she and 150 students utilized writing to transform their lives and communities. Gruwell's impactful teaching methods have been adapted into a 2007 film, Freedom Writers, and a 2019 PBS documentary, Freedom Writers: Stories from the Heart. Her professional life showcases a dedication to empowering students through the power of writing and storytelling.

Ilyasah Shabazz is a prominent American author, community organizer, social activist, and motivational speaker. She is widely recognized for her impactful work in advocating for social justice and civil rights. As an accomplished writer, Shabazz has penned several influential books, including the memoir "Growing Up X," which offers a poignant account of her experiences and insights. Through her engaging public speaking engagements and community initiatives, Shabazz continues to inspire and empower individuals to create positive change and foster a more inclusive society.

Brendon Burchard is a renowned author, high performance coach, and motivational speaker known for his expertise in personal development and success strategies. Through his books, coaching programs, and speaking engagements, he has inspired millions of individuals worldwide to reach their full potential and achieve their goals. Burchard's unique blend of practical insights, powerful motivation, and actionable advice has earned him a reputation as a leading authority in the field of personal growth and high performance.

Bruce Sterling is an influential American science fiction author and editor, best known for his contributions to the cyberpunk subgenre. He has written numerous novels and short stories, showcasing his talent for blending futuristic concepts with social commentary. Sterling's work extends beyond fiction, as he has also authored non-fiction books exploring topics such as technology and society. Through his writing and editorial work, he has left a lasting impact on the science fiction genre, solidifying his reputation as a visionary and thought-provoking writer.

Tucker Max is an American author and public speaker known for chronicling his drinking and sexual encounters through short stories on his website TuckerMax.com. He achieved significant success with his book "I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell," which became a New York Times #1 Bestseller and maintained a presence on the Best Seller List for several years. Despite the success of his book, the subsequent film adaptation received negative reviews. Max has also released other books, including "Assholes Finish First," "Hilarity Ensues," and "Sloppy Seconds: The Tucker Max Leftovers." He was a finalist for the 2009 Time 100 based on internet votes.

Steven Alfred Hill is an accomplished American figure with a diverse professional background. He gained recognition as a cast member on the twelfth season of the popular MTV reality show, The Real World. Alongside his television appearances, Hill has also pursued a career in modeling, public speaking, and acting. Additionally, he has authored works that have contributed to his reputation as a multi-talented individual. Hill's varied professional endeavors have established him as a notable personality in the entertainment industry.

Elizabeth Murray is an American memoirist and inspirational speaker known for her remarkable journey from homelessness in high school to being accepted into Harvard University. Her life story was depicted in the Lifetime television film "Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story" in 2003. Murray's memoir titled "Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard," published in 2010, became a New York Times Bestseller. She continues to inspire audiences through her speaking engagements and writing.

Gary Zukav is an American spiritual teacher and prolific author known for his bestselling books. He gained widespread recognition with his book "The Dancing Wu Li Masters," which won a U.S. National Book Award. Zukav later achieved even greater success with his consecutive New York Times Best Sellers, notably "The Seat of the Soul." He made numerous appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show starting in 1998, where he discussed transformative concepts related to human consciousness. Throughout his career, Zukav has been instrumental in exploring and popularizing spiritual and philosophical ideas.

James Arthur Ray is an American self-help businessman, motivational speaker, author, and convicted felon. He gained attention for his seminars and appearances on popular media platforms like CNN's Larry King Live, The Secret, Today Show, and Oprah. Despite controversies surrounding his professional background and the tragic deaths of three participants in a ritual at one of his retreats in 2009, Ray served time in prison and later resumed his self-help business endeavors upon his release in 2013.

Richard "Pee Wee" Kirkland was a prominent figure in American streetball, known for his exceptional basketball skills and flashy playing style. He gained notoriety for his involvement in illicit activities, particularly as a drug kingpin. Despite his criminal activities, Kirkland was revered for his talent on the basketball court, earning a reputation as one of the best streetball players of his time. His dual life as both a sports star and criminal figure contributed to the complex legacy he left behind in the world of streetball and beyond.

George Arthur Foster is a retired American professional baseball player and scout, known for his career as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1969 to 1986. He notably played for the Cincinnati Reds, San Francisco Giants, New York Mets, and Chicago White Sox. Foster was a five-time All-Star and a feared right-handed slugger, leading the National League in home runs in 1977 and 1978, and in RBIs in 1976, 1977, and 1978. He won the NL MVP Award in 1977 and a Silver Slugger Award in 1981. Foster was inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 2003.

Lesra Martin is a multi-talented American-Canadian professional with a diverse skill set. He has excelled as a lawyer, motivational speaker, and writer. Martin gained widespread recognition for his pivotal role in facilitating the release of former boxer Rubin "The Hurricane" Carter. Through his legal expertise, inspirational talks, and written work, Martin has made a significant impact in advocating for justice and social change. His dedication to helping others and his successful efforts in the legal field have solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the community.

Thomas Trace Beatie is an American public speaker, author, and advocate of transgender rights and sexuality issues, focusing on transgender fertility and reproductive rights. He came out as a trans man in 1997 and underwent gender-affirming surgery in 2002. Known as "the pregnant man," Beatie made headlines in 2007 after becoming pregnant through artificial insemination. His unique case of a legal male giving birth within a marriage challenged societal norms and sparked conversations about gender identity and reproductive rights.

Red Jacket, also known as Otetiani in his youth and Sagoyewatha as an adult, was a Seneca orator and chief of the Wolf clan in Western New York. He played a key role in negotiating with the United States following the American Revolutionary War, advocating for his nation's interests. He signed the Treaty of Canandaigua in 1794, helping secure some Seneca territory in New York state. Red Jacket's impressive oratorical skills were evident in his famous speech on "Religion for the White Man and the Red," delivered in 1805.

Jessica Feshbach is an American former official within the Church of Scientology organization. She joined the Sea Org at 19 and was recognized as a high-level Scientologist. Feshbach gained prominence as Tom Cruise's assistant and befriended Katie Holmes during their engagement. She accompanied Holmes during public appearances for her film roles, participated in interviews, and attended events including Holmes' wedding to Cruise. Feshbach became a high-ranking spokesperson for Scientology by 2009.

Catelynn Baltierra (née Lowell) is an American reality television personality, author, and public speaker known for her appearances on reality TV shows such as 16 and Pregnant, Teen Mom, and Teen Mom OG. She co-authored the book Conquering Chaos with her husband, Tyler Baltierra. Additionally, the couple hosted the show Reunited on MTV, focusing on reuniting adopted individuals with their birth families. Lowell has also been open about her struggles with mental health, seeking treatment multiple times and raising awareness about the importance of addressing childhood trauma.

Spencer Johnson was an American physician and author known for his work in both children's literature and self-help books. He gained recognition for creating the ValueTales series, aimed at teaching children about values through storytelling. Additionally, his self-help book "Who Moved My Cheese?" became a bestseller and garnered widespread acclaim. Johnson also served as the chairman of Spencer Johnson Partners, further solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the fields of literature and personal development.

Thomas "Toivi" Blatt was a Holocaust survivor, writer, and public speaker known for his escape from the Sobibór extermination camp during the Jewish prisoner uprising in 1943. Blatt later lived in Communist Poland before emigrating to Israel and settling in the United States. He dedicated his professional life to sharing his experiences during the Holocaust through his writings and public speaking engagements, raising awareness about the atrocities of the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance and education to prevent such events from happening again.

Rennie Curran is a former American football linebacker who played college football at the University of Georgia. Known as one of the top weakside linebackers of his class, Curran was highly regarded for his dominant defensive skills. He decided to forgo his final year of college eligibility to enter the 2010 NFL draft, where he was selected as the 97th pick by the Titans. Throughout his professional career, Curran showcased his talent and contributed to the team's defensive efforts on the field.

Marie Forleo is a prominent American entrepreneur renowned for her impactful contributions to the world of personal development and online business. As the founder of Marie Forleo International, she has authored influential advice books such as "Everything is Figureoutable" and "Make Every Man Want You." Additionally, Forleo is celebrated for creating the successful online business program B-School. She engages with a global audience through various platforms including hosting MarieTV, a popular YouTube web series, and The Marie Forleo Podcast, where she continues to inspire and empower others.

Julia Butterfly Hill is an American environmental activist and tax redirection advocate known for her courageous act of living in a 200-foot tall California redwood tree named Luna for 738 days to prevent loggers from cutting it down. Her dedication and activism led to an agreement with the Pacific Lumber Company to save the tree. Hill is also an author, having written "The Legacy of Luna" and co-authored "One Makes the Difference," further contributing to environmental awareness and advocacy.

Julie Krone is a retired American jockey who made history as the first female jockey to win a Triple Crown race in 1993. She was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2000 and became the first female jockey to win a Breeders' Cup race in 2003. Known for her success at various race tracks, she also had a career in broadcasting and received accolades for her resilience in overcoming injuries sustained while racing.

Jeffrey Gitomer is a prominent figure in the field of sales, known for his expertise as an author, speaker, and salesperson. He has made significant contributions to the areas of sales, customer loyalty, and personal development through his writings and lectures. Gitomer is recognized for his insightful strategies that have helped individuals and businesses enhance their sales techniques and foster stronger relationships with customers. His professional career is characterized by a commitment to empowering others with the knowledge and skills needed for success in the competitive world of sales.

Nabeel Qureshi was a Pakistani-American evangelical Christian apologist who converted to Christianity from Islam during his university years. He earned a doctorate in medicine before pursuing further studies in religion and Judaism and Christianity. Qureshi joined Ravi Zacharias International Ministries as a Christian apologist and authored three books on Islam and Christianity. In 2016, he revealed his diagnosis of stage IV stomach cancer, which he battled for a year before passing away in 2017.

J.R. Martinez is an American actor, motivational speaker, and former U.S. Army soldier. He gained recognition for his role as Brot Monroe on the ABC daytime drama All My Children and as the winner of Season 13 of Dancing with the Stars. Martinez has also served as the Grand Marshal of the Rose Parade and appeared on the syndicated action series SAF3. Following severe burns sustained during his Army service in Iraq, he has become a prominent speaker, sharing his experiences with various audiences nationwide.

George William Curtis was a prominent American writer, reformer, public speaker, and political activist known for his advocacy of various social causes. He played a significant role as an abolitionist and supporter of civil rights for African Americans and Native Americans. Curtis also championed women's suffrage, civil service reform, and public education. Through his writings, speeches, and activism, he worked tirelessly to bring about positive change in society and promote equality for all marginalized groups. George William Curtis left a lasting impact on American social and political discourse.

Ronald Heifetz is an academic and author known for his expertise in public leadership. He holds the prestigious position of King Hussein bin Talal Senior Lecturer in Public Leadership and is the Founding Director of the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard Kennedy School. He is also a co-founder of Cambridge Leadership Associates. With a background in psychiatry, Heifetz works closely with leaders from various sectors including government, nonprofits, and business, providing guidance and support to help them navigate complex challenges and drive meaningful change.

Immaculée Ilibagiza is a Rwandan-American Catholic author and motivational speaker known for her powerful memoir, Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust (2006). Through her work, she shares her harrowing experiences and survival during the Rwandan genocide, offering insight into faith, resilience, and forgiveness. Ilibagiza's writing and speaking engagements have inspired and touched audiences worldwide, as she continues to promote messages of hope, healing, and reconciliation in the face of adversity.

Omar Suleiman is an American Islamic scholar and civil rights activist known for his leadership roles in various institutions. As the founding president of the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research, he has contributed significantly to the field of Islamic studies. Additionally, Suleiman serves as an adjunct professor of Islamic studies at Southern Methodist University and is a member of the Ethics Center Advisory Board there. He is also the Resident Scholar at the Valley Ranch Islamic Center and Co-Chair Emeritus of Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square.