Biography
In the past 10 years, I have run for public office, started a business, authored a book, and joined the premiere social media agency in New York City. ‘The Time is Now’ was the campaign slogan during my run for mayor of Mason City in 2002, but the message hasn’t faded.
My focus and drive centers around understanding the reasons behind our life choices, improving education and utilizing technology for good. I have worked under social media expert and wine enthusiast, Gary Vaynerchuk, author of the New York Times Bestseller, The Thank You Economy,and consulted on the launch of the book, Tough Talks for PR Pros by PR Expert Alan Cohen.
The message of seeing each moment as an opportunity for change was the core of my campaign and remains central to everything I do in life. That’s what took me to New York City and what drives my passion to not only work full-time in social media but also run my consulting, speaking and coaching business. I am an enthusiastic motivational and leadership speaker, focusing on the needs of a healthy life and social media for business while remaining focused on the important things in your life.
I finished third in the campaign for mayor, but proclaimed on election night that it had been a victory. I currently volunteer with The Trevor Project, and have also spent time with Habitat for Humanity, Toastmasters, and formerly worked full-time for the US Tennis Association.
I am a serial believer that each of us has the ability to overcome any obstacle in addition to having a positive impact on those around us. I have authored one book, Anything is Possible.
Industry Expertise (3)
Professional Training and Coaching
Training and Development
Social Media
Areas of Expertise (5)
Stress Management
Passion
Attitude
Motivational
Leadership
Accomplishments (1)
Marathoner (personal)
2012-06-03
I believe anything is possible. So, I ran the San Diego marathon.
Education (1)
University of Northern Iowa: BA, Public Relations 2005
Links (1)
Testimonials (3)
Leila Schlenker, Training Coordinator | Family Planning Council of Iowa
“Richard was the closing speaker at our annual Family Planning Update in 2008. We were looking for a motivational speaker that would leave conference attendees feeling good about themselves and the work that they do and Richard delivered right on target! He was the perfect ending to a full two days of heavy duty topics. He made us laugh, he provoked us to think deep and overall energized us for the travel home.”
Miles Brainard, President | Mason City High School Gay-Straight Alliance
“Richard really helped give us a clearer sense of purpose and, as a result, we were able to make significant steps to firmly establish our student organization in its first year. We even won Best GSA in Iowa! He was a great guy, very kind.”
Joy Olson, |
"I am a stay at home mom and I feel like I need to be “in control” of everything that happens here in the house. Since our workshop I have really calmed down. You made it easy to follow by breaking it down with “Prevent, Modify, Accept, and Reframe.” I find that I am more aware of the fact that I am blaming and I am able to stop that in its tracks. Really I could go on and on. I took a lot with me when I left your class.”
Event Appearances (14)
Kansas Adult Education Association
Wichita, Kansas
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Mason City Youth Task Force
Mason City, Iowa
Missouri Valley Adult Education Association
Kansas City, MO
Association of International Educators
Kansas City, Mo
Nonprofit Connect
Kansas City, MO
Beyond Rubies Women’s Conference
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Rockhurst University
Kansas City, MO
Beyond Rubies Women’s Conference
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Worth County Republican Women
Osage, Iowa
Drake University
*multiple events and dates Des Moines, Iowa
Fort Hays State University
Leadership On and Off the Field Hays, Kansas
Iowa Family Planning Council
Des Moines, Iowa
International Association of Administrative Professionals
*Multiple Workshops & Keynotes Multiple Locations
Sample Talks (1)
Anything is Possible
We all encounter things that, at the time, seem unattainable, insurmountable and impossible. Upon careful examination, nothing is outside your reach! Richard engages his audience with stories, laughter and provocative thoughts to bring about a change in attitude which ultimately leads to a stronger and more positive professional and personal life. This keynote will entertain and provoke the audience to question every aspect of their lives and inspire the audience to believe in possible!
Style
Availability
- Keynote
- Workshop Leader
- Author Appearance
- Corporate Training
Social