Biography
Dion Flynn is a teacher, improviser, comedian, performer, writer, and army veteran best known for his impersonation of Barack Obama on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, among his more than 100 appearances on the show. He is an expert in fun and innovative ways to help people connect with themselves and others. Dion discovered that the skills he used on stage and TV for both improvisational and scripted comedy paralleled the skills needed in recovery from process and substance addiction, and also came in handy for basic human development as well as interpersonal and business communication skills. As a result, he co-created The Improvisor’s Mindset (with Jeanne M. Stafford) to draw connections between these theatrical skills and the critical skills needed for successful, grounded connection for the spiritual seeker, and an enhanced business and personal life for the rest of us. Dion sees the journey from isolation to connection as the basic journey of any recovery and the basic storyline of the soul. Dion has performed with, taught, or led improv workshops for MTV, VH-1, Logo, Rock The Vote, Google, PNC Bank, Herman Miller, The M&A Advisor, Ardent, Maersk, PWC, Ecolab, The North Carolina Lawyers Association, and more. He holds a master’s of fine arts degree in acting from New York University’s Graduate Acting program and has worked with Spike Lee, Rosie O’Donnell, Kate McKinnon, Josh Radnor, Shakespeare In The Park, The Public Theater, The Guthrie Theater, The Moth Storytelling, Armed Services Arts Partnership, and many other world-class artists and organizations. Dion Flynn will get your people connected! Cited by Oprah Magazine as “one of our favorite creative thinkers. Your audience is wowed and takes home sure-fire nuggets that open more doors and close more deals using the basic tools of improv.
Speech Topics
Improv Recovery Workshop
Actor, comedian, Army veteran and recovering person Dion Flynn, best known as Barack Obama on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, leads recovering people and/or their healthcare providers in theatrical improvisation workshops. The basic tools of successful improv are the basic tools of successful recovery and human connection. In a safe and super-fun environment, you’ll practice: listening, public speaking, spontaneity, empathy, acceptance, awareness, presence, vulnerability, and confidence.
Improv for Sales
The basic tools of improv are the basic tools of human relationships and therefore the basics of good business. Have your salespeople learn the basics of improv and how they apply to skyrocketing sales.
Truth in Comedy
Let’s get all of your people together and do some stand-up comedy. Dion Flynn will lead your group of any size in a stand-up comedy workshop based upon what’s funny about your own corporate culture. Every culture has its quirks and what better way to let off steam, bond and have a blast than with a comedy event of your own making? Employees, teams explore and reveal company , personal and leadership issues by making jokes. There is truth in comedy and by making fun, issues can be revealed and solved, teams unite and morale improves.
Improv for Business
Learn to react naturally and spontaneously in every situation. Dion leads a highly interactive workshop where the audience members are the stars - in person or virtually, Dion teaches the skill of "Yes, and", how to keep conversations flowing naturally and productively. The perfect workshop for managers, leaders, teams, and customer interaction.
Keynote Speaking Topics
Dion Flynn will get your people connected! Cited by Oprah Magazine as “one of our favorite creative thinkers…”, expert improvisor, comedian, and Army veteran Dion Flynn, is best known as Barack Obama (and other characters) with over 100 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Your audience is wowed and takes home sure-fire nuggets that open more doors and close more deals using the basic tools of improv. Dion is the Dave Chapelle of applied improvisation, using insightful humor to share innovative ways to connect. • How “Yes, and…” Will Skyrocket Your Sales • How “Fear of People” is Keeping You From Your Potential • Put Down The Gadgets And Pick-Up On The People Around You • Recovering Playfulness • Epic Storytelling
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Dion Flynn's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Dion Flynn's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is Dion Flynn's speaking fee?
The typical range for Dion Flynn's speaking fee is $20,000–$25,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Dion Flynn to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Dion Flynn for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Dion Flynn's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Dion Flynn through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like Dion Flynn
Scott Bloom
A professional comedian, author, podcast host and tv personality who has built a reputation as the go-to choice for business humor, Scott has hosted hundreds of events over two decades for big and small organizations alike. As the son of a successful salesman, he was exposed to the principles of building a business at an early age. As a comedian, Scott cut his teeth at renowned improv and comedy clubs. And as a self-taught student of psychology, he’s explored what makes people tick and has written a book (albeit a farce) on how to get through life. He’s uniquely positioned to deliver significant concepts on connecting people, building relationships and making business seriously funny.
Fee Range: $12,000–$15,500
Travels From: CA
Michael Phelps
Michael Phelps has been making waves in the world of sports since he was young. He tied the record for the most medals at a single Olympics in the 2004 Athens Summer Olympic Games when he earned six gold medals and eight medals overall. Although he is young, Phelps has already had a lifetime of experiences—in the pool and out. He founded “Swim with the Stars”—the first ever Olympic Swimming Tour that travels the country to give kids the opportunity to learn from the best. He is also a national spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Clubs. Phelps is youthful but intelligent, successful yet modest, and understands the importance of following a dream. 2018, Phelps revealed that he struggled with ADHD and depression and now works as a mental health advocate.
Fee Range: Inquire
Travels From: MD
Jodie Sweetin
Jodie Sweetin, best known as Stephanie Tanner on the sitcom Full House, Jodie Sweetin has lived a life far darker than her TV personality, and has emerged triumphant over the unyielding grip of drug and alcohol addiction, now devoted to sharing her story to help others afflicted by similar pains. In 2009, she wrote unSweetined, a deeply personal and raw memoir chronicling her downward spiral of substance abuse, and how becoming a mother gave her the determination and courage to get sober. Sweetin has recently celebrated 5 years of sobriety, and is set to reprise her role as Stephanie Tanner alongside her Full House costars in the 2016 Netflix Original Series, Fuller House. Offering refreshingly candid perspective—with a strong dose of humility—Sweetin engages audiences with insight from her journey through struggles and triumphs, the vicious cycle of abuse and recovery, and strategies for facing personal demons and finding one’s self.
Fee Range: $14,000–$50,000
Travels From: CA
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