I love talking to groups and working with people, from small teams to auditoriums of thousands, and consider my lectures and workshops are an opportunity to help you by sharing my experience and expertise—all while having fun and embracing the joy in our work.
For example, I’ve:
- trained university administrators strengthen their connections with one another and be more present, using a combination of improv comedy and mindfulness practices.
- taught seniors how to understand and identify misinformation on Facebook.
- coached journalists be more effective on social media, and talked to public relationships professionals about interaction between the media and PR professionals.
- created and hosted a keynote presentation at a national student media conference.
- organized and led workshops to help undergraduate orientation leaders embrace failure and get out of their comfort zones.
- talked to independent publishers and bloggers about how to stay passionate as their hobbies become jobs.
I’ve honed my presentation and on-stage skills as an improv comedy actor and show host; as a lecturer, debate moderator, and award show presenter; and as a teacher who’s been in front of classrooms for more than 18 years.
All of that makes me very comfortable in front of people and on-camera, but you don’t have to take my word for it. Watch my Mediavine Austin conference talk above, or my TEDx Talk below—and read what others have said about me:
- Andy “fielded my students’ questions with informed and thoughtful answers. I appreciated that he didn’t simply give them a canned speech but instead dialogued with my students” —Amanda Ann Klein, East Carolina University
- “Andy provided great insight into today’s media culture as a moderator of our program on sex, race and religion.” —Scott McCallum, Public Relations Society of America
- “What I like most about Andy’s presentations and sessions is that he goes beyond just telling students what to do. Instead, he shares examples of his experiences as a working freelancer and reality television expert. Andy encourages students to pursue writing, but without sounding Pollyanna-ish about what the prospects are of landing a well-paying freelance gig. His wealth of experience with magazines and publishing—along with a wry, sometimes self-deprecating sense of humor—provides him a credible voice that really connects with students.” —Tom Nelson, Loyola Marymount University
- “Not only did everyone have a blast, but they also learned so much about mindfulness, stress management, communication, and connection. The time with Andy was certainly the highlight of the retreat!” —Lua Hancock, Stetson University
Here’s some real-time feedback from people attending my workshops and sessions at conferences:
- “Great seminar, Andy! Love your satirical, yet encouraging vibe.” —Amelia Hill
- “Andy Dehnart is a great speaker!” —Colleen Baker
- “practical, helpful straightforward presentation with humor” —Kate McLaughlin
- “I didn’t think clapping would be relevant to journalism, but [Andy] proved me wrong” —Zoe Travers
- “INCREDIBLE” —Annie Strella
- “just learned a TON in his sessions today” —Hannah Gatens
- “best show of the day goes to Andy Dehnart. Really enjoyed your presentation.” —Drew
- “Andy Dehnart is my favorite speaker. Really interesting and informing blogger.” —Chris Phillips
You can contact me directly to arrange any kind of appearance, from a lecture to consulting. Here’s how I can help you.
Groups
- I can host or moderate your event. As an improviser and teacher, I’m adept at moderating and asking questions, and making an audience feel welcome and connected while keeping a program on track.
- I can share my ideas or experiences by delivering a speech or lecture that will engage and inspire audiences, large or small. For example, I once led the keynote at the country’s largest conference of college journalists, teaching nearly one thousand students how to use the techniques of improv to strengthen their journalism. I also gave a TEDx talk (watch below).
- I can consult and lead workshops on topics relating to mindfulness, popular culture (including reality television), blogging, journalism, social media, student media, nonfiction writing, and more. I’m open to working with any type of group, from small student organizations to large corporate gatherings.
Journalists, podcasters, and researchers
I’m available for media appearances or interviews, via phone, video conference, or in person.
I’m frequently interviewed by journalists, in print and on the radio; have appeared on live television as a talking head many times; and was even a guest on the Duck Dynasty episode of Katie Couric’s daytime talk show.
Teachers and schools
If you’re a teacher using my work in class, I’ll gladly talk with you and your students for free—by video conference, or in person, if that’s possible.
Send me an e-mail message today and let’s talk. I look forward to hearing from you.
