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DAVE BLAKE MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER
What if the biggest obstacle in your way…was actually your next big breakthrough?
Dave Blake helps audiences flip their thinking, reframe adversity, and take action - starting now.
At the height of a thriving entertainment career, Dave walked into a routine ankle surgery - only to awaken to a life forever changed by a recalled drug that caused a traumatic brain injury. Left unable to walk, speak clearly, or hold himself up, he lost almost everything except his will to rebuild. His journey is a raw, human story of resilience, reinvention, and turning unimaginable loss into purpose.
With humor, heart, and tools that work in the real world, Dave inspires people to stop waiting for “someday” and start building a life and work they’re proud of - even when things are hard.
DAVE BLAKE INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKER
What if the biggest obstacle in your way…was actually your next big breakthrough?
The Flip Flop Philosopher, Dave Blake, helps audiences flip their thinking, navigate adversity, and take action - starting now.
At the height of a thriving entertainment career, Dave walked into a routine ankle surgery expecting to leave with crutches, not a plot twist! He awoke to a life forever changed by a recalled drug that caused a traumatic brain injury. Left unable to walk, speak clearly, or hold himself up, he lost almost everything except his will to rebuild. His journey is an authentic, human story of resilience, reinvention, and turning unimaginable loss into joyful purpose.
With humor, heart, and tools that work in the real world, Dave is a thought leader who inspires people to stop waiting for “someday” and start building a life or business by design.
OUR CLIENTS
Dave doesn’t speak about artificial intelligence, he speaks to the people expected to adapt to it. AI is the accelerator. Dave is the stabilizer.
KEYNOTES THAT INSPIRE
Humanness is Back in Business
Dave delivers more than words, he sparks movement. His four signature keynotes give audiences fresh ways to move through change, connect with others, and create forward momentum even when the map is gone.
Whether your people are navigating stress, recovering from disruption, or reimagining how they design for others, Dave brings humor and equips them with structure and tools they’ll actually use.
Thrive in uncertainty and keep moving forward when the future feels unclear
Reduce stress and cognitive overload in real time so your people not only feel better, they function better
Build structure that turns chaos into clear direction
Leave with tools, that keep working long after inspiration fades
Grow retention 40% by focusing on strengths over flaws
MEET DAVE BLAKE
Before life threw him it's wildest curve, Dave Blake was a fixture in Chicago’s corporate entertainment scene; the spark behind high-impact events, game shows, team-building experiences, and unforgettable stage moments. He led one of the city's premier entertainment companies and was fresh off a nonstop 22-day stretch of productions when a playful winter walk with the dog set off a chain of events that would change everything.
Dave walked into a routine ankle surgery and awoke to a life forever changed by a recalled drug that caused a traumatic brain injury. Specialists gave him just five months to live and told him to “get his affairs in order.” Left unable to walk, speak clearly, or hold himself up, he lost almost everything except his will to rebuild. That was nine years ago.
Now, Dave's mission is to help others explore what it means to be more human in today's world so we can make today's world more human.
A past president of the National Speakers Association, Dave has been recognized by his peers for spirit, determination, and passion.
FLIP FLOP PHILOSOPHER
TESTIMONIALS
Dave... Wow, what a fantastic & fun day! You are truly a special human...a treasure.
Again, thank you 10x for EVERYTHING you have done to keep this beautiful organization beating.
Meeting Professionals International
Dave, The world needs what you have to share.
Jack Canfield, Co-Author: Chicken Soup for the Soul
Most meetings are intimidating...You're Not!
Gen Z Conference Attendee
Wow!, Thanks Dave Blake
WGN Chicago Morning News
Dave, you are such an inspiration and role model for us all.
-Gregg Golson CPCU, CSM, ACS, AIC, AIM, AINS, API
Just want to thank you for being hands down amazeballs on so many levels. I have mad respect for everything you have put in place in Chicago… I’m so glad I stayed… Some days are hard, but it’s days like today that make me remember we change lives for the better. You're a great inspiration to many and I'm proud to say you’re on my team :)
5th 3rd Bank
David Blake, President of NSA Central Florida chapter, thank you for tireless efforts in keeping this organization organized, engaged, educated, and happy!
Dana, Speaker/Association Member
I was just recording a session today and the guest spoke so highly of how much value you gave on your Chat. --- you are The Valuable Leader!
Velma, Podcast Host of The Valuable Leader
I would refer your business and Lisa Ann without hesitation.
Davey
Forever grateful for the trainings you did for students and teachers throughout Florida and for your willingness to always lend a hand regardless of the short notice. Grateful to have had you on my team.
Gladys, Sandy Hook Promise
Thank you for being so on top of it and going above and beyond! You helped make the event a huge success! Sincerely, Thank you!
Noah's Hope
Dave Blake is a one-man support system! I love that dude, especially in flip flops!
Chad, Elevated Funding
A great job Dave Blake on your role in building a solid leadership team!
Hardy, Institute of Organization Management-US Chamber of Commerce Foundation
I would like to thank you for the great job you did for us at Girl’s Night In. It was a huge success thanks to you and many other generous people. Vendors and attendees are still buzzing about it. Many people asked me where I found you and I gave them our flyer, so you maybe getting a lot of business out of this.
Irish American Heritage Association
Bravo! Thank you so much for everything you've done to add value to our community and everything you do to set up the next team for success.
Sylvie, CEO
The event was a success and everyone seemed to enjoy. As always, it’s a pleasure working with you. You are a true professional. Until next time
Hosts Chicago
On behalf of the Activities Committee, a sincere thank you for outstanding services during last week’s event at ADP Elk Grove. I am receiving feedback via an online survey from the attendees.
ADP
Thank you! Rave reviews and really fun, and I’m so grateful people were so engaged. Please feel free to use me as a reference in the future. Thanks, Dave.
Hard Rock Cafe
Thanks for a different & upbeat experience. Success!
True Value
It was an amazing hit all around! Nothing but great comments from the staff. You sure know how to work a room!
Live Nation
Thank you so much, Dave. When I saw you posting about positive things, I really wanted to let you know what I was doing.
Tiffany
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.
Thanks again for your genuine interest and support with this event. So appreciated.
Citi Group
The Chicago Movie Blues made the event! We have had nothing but wonderful compliments from our clients. Thank you for all your great work!
Daikin
The 50’s Rock’N’Bowl –“We LOVE You. We had a great time! You were a huge hit. People could not stop talking about it the next day.
Sabre Holdings
Our 80’s Day event last September, received the best employee reviews ever!
This year the Activities Team has decided to do a “Game Show Day” Everyone on the A-Team said to “bring Flip Flop back!” We hope this date works for your schedule
Munich RE
Just wanted to send a quick note to say thank you for an amazing program! The guests had a blast dancing on stage and playing inflatable guitars. You really helped make our event a success. Thank you!
Hasbro
Cheryl and I are very glad we met you a few years back and look forward to working together many times in the future.
Mount Prospect Park District
Dave, Our Chapter is certainly in need of your experience leadership in our industry right now.
Andy, Association President
MEMBERSHIPS & AFFILIATIONS
