For leaders, managers, and entrepreneurs
It’s the Economy, Stupid
DEIA is still good for business. The numbers have not changed, whatever the headlines say.
Depending on the week, DEIA gets called too political, too expensive, or simply over. The data disagrees. Stepping back from inclusion is not a bold move; it is a poorly informed one. This keynote makes the case, plainly and in numbers, for why a focus on DEIA is not just good for your employees but good for your business. This talk pairs well with my book, Birds of All Feathers. Sort of like a nice cab sav with a good steak.
If you’d like to build on this topic beyond the keynote, you can learn more about how I work with organizations on consulting engagements.
Trailer
See it in ninety seconds
Overview
The business case, laid out calmly and in numbers that hold up
DEIA work has rarely been more contested, or more misunderstood. Some leaders are walking back commitments quietly, hoping nobody notices. Others are looking for a steady hand and a clear-eyed read on what the work is actually producing for the business.
Drawing on research from Deloitte, McKinsey, and twenty years of practice with Fortune 100 companies, public-sector agencies, and global non-profits, I lay out the business case in the language any leadership team will recognize: innovation, profitability, talent retention, and risk. The evidence is there. The work pays.
This is the keynote for leaders who want the work to keep paying for itself, and who need a clear, steady way to defend it when the conversation gets harder.
What clients say
From the organizations that booked this talk
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Michael’s ability to address what can obviously be a tricky and sensitive topic, with an awareness to these sensitivities and with a level of empathy that made it accessible to staff who may have been previously unaware. Highly recommend bringing Michael in to your organization, we intend to have him back sometime soon!
Josie Porto Vice President, Ontario Region The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company
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It has been a pleasure working with Michael. He’s professional, flexible and extremely passionate and knowledgeable.
Lisa Lowe Member Engagement Officer CPA Manitoba
Verified attendee feedback
What the rooms said
Combined, response-weighted scores from every delivery of this keynote, collected independently through Talkadot.
- 94%Engaging
- 93%Relevant
- 93%Memorable
- 93%Inspiring
- An up to date look at an important and contentious issue with actionable items. It wasn’t a judgmental presentation but informed, I think it drew people instead of closed them off. Attendee
- This was very educational! Learning that it’s not about “the right thing to do” but about “the smart thing to do” was very helpful. Thanks. Attendee
- I actually really enjoyed the breakout session about privilege! I also felt the keynote was very fresh and relevant with current events. Attendee
Ten-minute speaking sample
A longer sample, coming soon
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Frequently asked
Quick answers before you reach out
How long is this keynote?
Sixty minutes is the standard, and it is adjustable in either direction. Tell me the slot and I will make it work.
Can it be delivered virtually?
Yes. The structure and the audience interaction are the same in both formats. Virtual delivery works on Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex, or whatever platform your team is already using.
Who is this talk for?
Built for executive teams, boards, leadership offsites, and business associations. It also lands well with broader leadership audiences and anyone who needs to make the case for this work in a room that runs on numbers.
Can the content be customized for our audience?
Yes. Every booking starts with a prep call to tailor the examples, language, and case studies to your sector, your audience, and the moment your organization is in. Customization is part of the speaking fee, not an add-on.
How do we book Michael for this talk?
Send a note through the contact page with your event date, audience, format, and budget range. You will hear back within two business days with availability, a fee, and a short note on fit.
Bring me to your stage
Tell me about the event, the audience, and what you want people to leave thinking about. I will come back with a short note on fit, format, and what a strong version of this looks like for your room.