Hire to Speak

Michael Lee Stallard and Jason Pankau are frequent speakers at leading organizations and business schools on leadership, employee engagement, strategic alignment, teams, productivity and innovation.
Resources (Click on the link): Michael’s bio, photo, book cover, keynote speech and workshop topics, and testimonials.
SELECT RECENT AND UPCOMING EVENTS
American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) Annual Conference, Denver, CO, May 6-9, 2012
New Canaan Society Annual Retreat, Washington, D.C., March 2-4, 2012
Institute for Management Studies, Edinburgh, Feb. 15, 2012
Institute for Management Studies, London, Feb. 14, 2012
Institute for Management Studies, Brussels, Feb. 10, 2012
Institute for Management Studies, Amsterdam, Feb, 9, 2012
NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, February 1, 2012
Institute for Management Studies, Boston, MA, January, 25, 2012
New Canaan Society, Hartford, CT, December 16, 2011
Prestonwood Christian Academy, Plano, TX, Nov. 21, 2011
Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), Hartford, CT, Nov. 11, 2011
Greenwich High School, Greenwich, CT, Nov. 11, 2011
McKesson Corp., San Francisco, CA, Oct. 26, 2011
Scotiabank, Miami, FL, October, 18, 2011
Society for Human Resources Management, Stamford, CT, Oct. 13, 2011
NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX – Sept. 27, 2011
Connected Church Conference, Colorado Springs, CO, Sept. 21-22, 2011
Harvard and Wharton Business School Clubs of D.C., Sept. 13, 2011
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, August 24, 2011
Executive Development Partners, New York, NY, June 20, 2011
Institute for Management Studies, New York, NY, June 9, 2011
HR Summit, Singapore, May 26-27, 2011
Learning for Life, Reno, NV, Mar. 10, 2011
National Human Capital Summit, Atlanta, GA, Mar. 7, 2011
New Canaan Society (Jason Pankau), Hot Springs, VA, Mar. 5, 2011
Tandy Executive Leadership Speaker Series at TCU, Fort Worth, TX, Jan. 26, 2011
New Canaan Society (Jason Pankau), New York, NY, Jan. 19, 2011
Vistage (Jason Pankau), Houston, TX, Jan. 10-11, 2011
Society for Human Resources Management, Richmond, VA. Jan. 7, 2011
Michael and Jason speak or teach workshops at numerous organizations including the following:
Association of Career Professionals
The Center for Creative Leadership
Center for Professional Development, Boy Scouts of the USA
Executive Development Exchange Network
General Electric’s Crotonville Leadership Center
Harvard Business School Club of DC
Marketing Executives Network Group
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
New York University, Stern School of Business
Rotman School of Business, University of Toronto
U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Society of Fellows and Friends
VIDEO CLIPS
Relationship Excellence and Performance
Vision and Employee Engagement
Best Practice: Knowledge Flow Sessions
The Effect of Warren Buffett’s Leadership on Employee Engagement
Teams: The Secret of U2’s Success
How George Washington United the Colonies to Defeat the Greatest Military Power of the Age
Engaging Employees in Difficult Times
Here’s what attendees of our recent presentations and workshops have said.
Alan N. Schlaifer, President & CEO
“I work for General Dynamics Electric Boat Corp and I attended the workshop that Michael Lee Stallard and Jason Pankau of E Pluribus Partner’s and co-authors of the book “Fired Up or Burned Out” presented to Electric Boat Corp on Oct 9, 08. There were 25 Electric Boat personnel in attendance at the workshop who are part of a leadership development group at Electric Boat Corp known as BLG-4. Many of us had recently read their book “Fired Up or Burned Out” before attending the workshop, so the material was still fresh in our minds. I have personally read their book twice cover to cover and have re-read numerous sections numerous times that I gain inspiration from. I refer to the book and the materials from the workshop often to help guide me in helping improve my skills as a manager of engineering personnel. The workshop was excellent as it reinforced all of the concepts presented in the book. Michael and Jason’s knowledge and passion of the subject matter, Connection Cultures = Vision, Value and Voice made the workshop a complete success at Electric Boat. There was actionable information presented that we have all taken back to our individual departments at Electric Boat to implement.
Below are quotes from many of the Electric Boat participants that attended:
“Good subject matter, and the fact that both presenters were passionate about what they were doing kept me engaged the entire day. The examples used throughout the day were meaningful and gave me a lot to think about.”
“I liked the way the training was delivered with examples and a little comedy.”
“I thought that this was one of the best seminars we’ve had so far in BLG. The EB culture is definitely not “soft” so it was nice that we could have a discussion about it. I learned a lot and intend on implementing some of the ideas discussed throughout the day.”
“The session provided insight for getting results from people. While the ideas were common sense-people issues, it was helpful to me to hear someone else say how important they are and provide examples for change.”
“The passion and knowledge the instructors displayed of the subject; the actionable steps we can take to implement; they kept us engaged!”
“What I like best about the session were the examples of people and corporations that typified the connection elements of vision, values, and voice and how those elements lead to success.”
Thanks to Michael and Jason for the excellent workshop you presented to Electric Boat personnel and your inspirational book.”
Ben Gillis, Engineering Manager, Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics
consider. I was told by many on the way out and subsequently what a great meeting it was.”
Beverly Katz, Chair, Marketing Executives Networking Group, Connecticut Chapter
“On September 17, 2008, Wharton alumni had the privilege to hear Michael Lee Stallard, President and CEO of E Pluribus Partners discuss his book,” Fired Up or Burned Out”. The evening was truly inspirational. Michael’s ability to connect and engage by providing real life stories and personal experiences spoke volumes in support of the work he has done in creating “connection cultures”.
Wanting to feel connected and engaged in the workforce is one thing but having the toolkit and support that Michael offers is quite another. Michael’s discussion was truly compelling and informative and those present were fortunate to hear his message.”
Jennifer Gregoriou
Chair, Speaker Series, Wharton Club of New York











Michael Lee Stallard is President of



I was most impressed with Mike’s presentation to our leaders at Lockheed Martin Aerospace! His research and presentation was right on, and addressed real issues that our company faces. Engaging employees has always been the best way to get the best from your people and give the best to them. The straight forward practical models and skills Mike teaches can help any leader transform their company culture to one that inspires the best in its people.
Mike not only taught us about engaging employees, he demonstrated it throughout his presentation!
Scott Baker Ph.D.
Professional and Organizational Development
Lockheed Martin Kelly Aviation Center
THe Southern Connecticut/Westchester chapter of the Association of Career Professionals International was privileged to have Michael Stallard present to our group on December 2, 2008. The feedback we received, and are still receiving, from participants was overwhelmingly positive. I can understand now why his book “Fired Up or Burned Out” has received many endorsements from well known consultants. His passion regarding his extensive research on how important “connections” are in the workplace is very evident. One of the attendees said “Finally, there is someone legitimizing the critical importance of the soft competencies that are so necessary for really effective leadership.”
Michael had many fascinating stories to share about successful companies that exhibit a Connection Culture. If companies are interested in increasing productivity, employee engagement, profitability and customer satisfaction, Michael and his team would be a great resource for them.
Joan D. Learn
Board Member
ACP International
S. CT/Westchester Chapter
I requested Michael to deliver a colloquium to the staff and faculty at the Center for Creative Leadership in Greensboro, NC on Jan. 21st, 2009. I had previously heard him speak to an employee engagement workshop for Lockheed-Martin managers and executives in August 2008 where I was also a speaker.
Michael delivered a wonderful presentation on the power of connection cultures and how we can create them in our own workplaces. His talk was full of illustrative stories and wonderful examples from the worlds of sports, business, the military, and even his own life.
Michael’s presentation resonated with the people in attendance as it correlates so well with CCL’s extensive body of knowledge on emotional intelligence. I was impressed and, afterward, I was approached by a number of people who had attended who told me how much they enjoyed the presentation. If you haven’t heard Michael speak, I strongly recommend that you do so and that you also read his book, “Fired Up or Burned Out.”
Bill Adams,
Senior Enterprise Associate – Government
Center for Creative Leadership
In 2008 the Darden Graduate School of Business graduated its inaugural MBA for Executives class. As part of their last week together, the students were lucky enough to have Michael Stallard share his thoughts with them. His presentation was powerful and the buzz among the students was fantastic. “Michael really connected with us – right off the bat.” “We should have had more time with Michael.” “Provocative.” “So nice to hear someone talk about how hard the soft side is.” “The most meaningful part of the week,” and so forth. Mike didn’t just present and take off for the airport – he joined the students for lunch, their afternoon sessions, joined us for dinner and even met with one student the following morning. He wrote about the experience on his blog, calling the class “The Connected Class.” To this day, that is how they refer to themselves. I am delighted that Michael will be back to share his wisdom with the Class of 2009. (And we’ve scheduled him for more time.)
Marian Chapman Moore
Professor (and former Associate Dean, MBA for Executive Program), Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia
Michael did an excellent job presenting his thesis and shared material with us from his book, “Fired Up or Burned Out”.
I participated with him along with many, many of my colleagues in organizations spread across a wide geography through a web conference sponsored by the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD).
I would highly recommend him and his information will play a very important role in how I lead my team of 12!
John Honaman, CFRE
Director of Member Services and Business Development
National Athletic Trainers’ Association
Dallas, Texas
Dear Michael,
Thank you for your tremendous contribution to the success of the Forum’s Second Annual Think Tank. Again, we greatly appreciate your efforts to market the Think Tank to your own clients, and your presentation was no doubt a draw for many attendees. “Whose in Charge Now? Thriving in an Employee-led Economy” exceeded our highest expectations.
Your keynote presentation with Jason resonated with our 45+ attendees and set the stage for an afternoon of learning and networking at the People Cafe. Not only was your message keenly aligned with the Forum’s own mission, but you offered up a dramatic and significant message that the Forum’s Executive Committee is still, and will no doubt continue, to reference – ‘Connect or Die!’
Over 90% of our Think Tank Survey respondents indicated the overall program met or exceeded their expectations. Your keynote address was a major reason we received such good reviews. Thank you very much for sharing your experience, expertise and delightful stories with us. It was a pleasure working with you!
Annalisa Jacobs, Managing Director,
Forum for People Performance Management and Measurement, an affiliate of the Department of Integrated Marketing Communications, Medill School of Journalism
Northwestern University
Michael Stallard was a recent keynote speaker at our Virginia State SHRM Leadership Conference in January 2011. He spoke on the topic of connection and volunteer/employee engagement. His passion for the topic is evident when you speak with Michael. He brings his points to life with real people examples of applied success. Michael was received very well at the conference, leading attendees to recognize the need that people have to be connected, as well as organizations to have an engaged volunteer group or employee workforce. His tenets – Vision, Value, and Voice – make the two come together effectively. Michael’s book Fired Up or Burned Out: How to Reignite Your Team’s Passion, Creativity, and Productivity is a quick read filled with valuable insights from which any team leader can benefit. I highly recommend Michael as an expert speaker on the power of engagement.
Karen A. Edmonds, SPHR, IPMA-CP
County of Montgomery
755 Roanoke Street, Suite 2-D
Christiansburg, VA 24073-3180
(540) 394-2007 (phone)
Four core content areas make up the curriculum for our international, nine-day, residential leadership development program for high school sophomores and juniors: Social Justice/Human Rights, The Practice of Leadership, The Presence of Self, and The Life and Legacy of Eleanor Roosevelt. Our participants come face-to-face with the best of the best of each content area in various intimate learning environments. When we were thinking of the best of the best in the area of leadership, we didn’t have to think twice: Michael Stallard and E Pluribus Partners were our absolute first choice.
From the theoretical foundations to the practical day-to-day implementation, the concepts contained in Michael’s book “Fired Up or Burned Out” are absolute must-haves in our work to empower the next generation of socially conscious leaders who can create sustainable change for a world in need. As one of our highest-rated training modules, our young graduates find the cross-cultural and cross-generational nature of the “Fired Up or Burned Out” principles adaptable and immediately applicable to their unique environments around the world.
Wherever they go and whatever they do, we know that our graduates not only create sustainable change, but they also provide the strength of sustainable leadership necessary to navigate that change. We have Michael Stallard and E Pluribus Partners to thank for that.
Kristine M. Revelle
Director
The Girls Leadership Workshop
The Eleanor Roosevelt Center
Hyde Park, New York
Hello Mr. Stallard,
I just wanted to say how much I appreciate you visiting our class to talk with us today. Your message was inspiring and insightful.
Here is a link to APM’s The Story Podcast – A Tale of Two Hearts that I shared with you:
http://thestory.org/archive/the_story_080311.mp3
I hope you enjoy it!
Romel Shearer
romelshearer@gmail.com
TCU Horned Frog – ‘15
Burnout, compassion fatigue, stress, of loss of meaning and feelings of isolation are all too common in the workplace. We invited Michael Lee Stallard to speak to faculty and staff at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, a large and complex mission-driven institution because we knew that his message was one we needed to hear. Michael’s research and data on connection and engagement captivated our audience full of scientists. As leaders, it is a challenge to keep people inspired, connected and engaged. Michael shared real world examples of leaders who successfully have done all these things. It was a fully engaging and inspiring presentation. The evaluations were “awesome,” as one faculty member said.
Janis Apted, MLS
Associate Vice President
Faculty Development
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, TX
In late 2010 I accepted the responsibility as Education Chairman for the 2011/2012 Education Year for our YPO Chapter. Shortly thereafter, I read the book Fired Up or Burned Out written by Michael Lee Stallard and Jason Pankau of E Pluribus Partner’s and knew that they were a “must have” for my program. My goals for the program were to move beyond a simple 1-2 hour lecture and instead have an experiential full-day workshop. Mike and Jason delivered a tremendous workshop, and of the 85 business leaders that attended their level of satisfaction was very high.
All felt that there was significant take home value in the form of not just ideas, but concrete action items they could immediately begin to utilize to improve their businesses.
Below are quotes from many of the event participants that attended:
“Excellent content, very knowledgeable resources and entertaining as well”
“The presentation content and the delivery was excellent”
“The presentation was an excellent balance between research and practical experience”
In addition, Mike and Jason were easy to work with during the planning of the session, and met or exceeded all of my expectations.
- Paul C. White, Education Chairman, Young Presidents Organization, Connecticut Chapter