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Donna Cardillo

The Inspiration Nurse, Humorist, and Master Motivator

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Biography

Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional), FAAN (Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing) is The Inspiration Nurse. She is a powerhouse of energy, wisdom, humor, and solid content and has been referred to as a positive force of nature who lights a path for others to follow. Donna travels the world helping individuals to be happy in their lives and careers and to reach their full potential. She does that as a keynote speaker, retreat and seminar leader, columnist, author, and cut-up. Her accomplished career combines over 25 years of clinical, managerial, and business experience, not to mention her stint as a professional singer! Donna’s clinical experience includes emergency and psychiatric nursing. She holds a diploma in nursing, a BS in Health Care Management, and an MA in Corporate and Public Communication. She is the original ‘Dear Donna’ columnist at Nurse.com. Donna has twice been named Business Woman of the Year in New Jersey and has also received the coveted Athena Award, an international leadership award for women. Donna was designated a Diva in Nursing by the Institute for Nursing in NJ for outstanding achievements and excellence in practice. She has also been named one of 50 Best Women in Business by NJBIZ. Donna appears regularly on television and radio, is frequently quoted in newspapers and magazines and has published numerous articles. Donna has appeared on The Today Show, The Dr. OZ Show and has been featured in the Los Angeles Times on several occasions. Donna is author of the award-winning book Falling Together: How to Find Balance, Joy, and Meaningful Change When Your Life Seems to Be Falling Apart. She is also the author of Your First Year as a Nurse: Making the Transition from Total Novice to Successful Professional 2nd ed., The ULTIMATE Career Guide for Nurses: Practical Advice for Thriving at Every Stage of Your Career 2nd ed., and A Day Book for Beginning Nurses. Donna is a founding member and past president of both the New Jersey chapters of both the National Speakers Association (NSA) and the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). She holds the coveted Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation, the highest earned international recognition for professional speakers. This makes her one of only 10% of all speakers to hold this designation and one of only 25 nurses with this credential. She is one of only 3 nurses in the world to hold both the CSP and FAAN designations. Donna is a Reiki Master, Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Certified Meditation Teacher, and labyrinth facilitator. When she is at her home base in Sea Girt, NJ, she serves as a local spokesperson for family caregivers. Affiliations • National Speakers Association • American Academy of Nursing • American Nurses Association • New Jersey State Nurses Association • Sigma (International Honor Society for Nurses) • National Nurses in Business Association

Speech Topics

  • The Power of Transformation

    This transformational program confronts the inevitability of change in our lives and careers, understanding why we resist change, strategies to embrace change and stay relevant, and how in the end, change will help us to create a vibrant future for ourselves and our profession. Without change, there is no growth and if you're not growing you're stagnating! Participants will learn: • How to overcome their fear of change • Specific ways to build 'change stamina' • How to maintain inner calm in the midst of outer chaos • Strategies for personal and career transformation • The importance of avoiding obsolescence

  • The Power of Resilience

    Challenge, change, and chaos has become the order of the day in our personal and professional lives. So how can you meet them head on and bounce back better and stronger rather than being overwhelmed? Donna will show you how to foster strategies to respond positively to change, adversity and stress while developing a sense of mastery, confidence, and personal power. Learn to turn challenges that threaten to knock us to the ground into the building blocks we need to become more successful, more joyful, and ultimately, more alive. Attendees will learn to: • Build personal power and confidence • Embrace change • Approach life with a positive perspective ​ • Develop habits to nurture and nourish self

  • The Heart of Nursing - How to Stay Connected to Yourself, Your Patients, and Your Profession

    This powerful and energizing program reminds nurses of their core values, vision, and purpose. By returning to basics, taking care of ourselves, and enhancing our professional practice, attendees will be reinvigorated to maximize their personal and professional potential while ramping up their positive engagement with patients, each other, their profession, and their workplace. Participants will learn: • How to be a catalyst for positive change • Powerful yet simple patient connection tools • Techniques for extreme self-care • Empowerment strategies that work • Professional development with purpose

  • Passionate Leadership: Soaring to New Heights

    Today’s leaders are challenged like never before. At the same time, they are in a unique position to have a greater impact on the future of their industry. So how can you stay inspired and continue to grow and evolve as a leader when chaos reigns, morale is low and change is a constant? Spend a high-content, high-fun hour (or longer) with The Inspiration Nurse and get primed, pumped-up and supercharged for the coming decade! Participants will learn how to: • Identify and avoid the perils and pitfalls of being an experienced leader • Become stronger by softening yourself • Create physical and emotional accessibility • Stay relevant and inspired year after year • Self-management strategies to support your success

  • Staying Joyfully Engaged at Every Stage of Your Career

    Florence Nightingale said, “Nursing should not be a sacrifice, but one of the highest delights of life.” Staying fully engaged and happy through the continuum of your career is vital to your success, your effectiveness as a healthcare professional, and even your health. Spend a fun, energetic, and practical session with The Inspiration Nurse as we explore ways to pump up the volume in your career…and your life! Attendees will learn strategies to: • Stay engaged and energized at every stage of their career • Be a catalyst for positive change • Maximize multi-generational teams • Enhance recruitment and retention • Promote collegiality with each other, their profession, and their workplace.

  • Regaining Joy and Balance to Move Forward - How Nurses/Healthcare Staff Can Refresh, Regroup, and Re-energize

    Times have been tough and nurses/healthcare professionals are just emerging from one of their greatest challenges ever. Having recently celebrated the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth, it’s only fitting that we ask ourselves: What would Florence do? Join Donna as she channels Flo for an inspirational and practical program to lift you up and get you back on track. Participants will learn how to: • Cultivate resilience • Create a mindfulness practice • Restore wellbeing • Empower themselves for future success

  • Nurse Power!™ - Harnessing The Power, The Passion, and The Pride of Nursing

    This uplifting program is designed to remind nurses of their own greatness and empower them for future success. It’s guaranteed to make nurses feel good and proud of who they are, what they do, and how they contribute to healthcare. Get ready to be pumped up, turned on, and super-charged with Nurse Power! Participants will learn: • What they already have going for them • How nurses have already changed the face of healthcare • How to be a nursing advocate • Techniques for assertive behavior/communication • Strategies for elevating the profession to new heights

  • A Nursing Renaissance™ - The Dawn of a New Era

    Join The Inspiration Nurse for this transformational program where she shares a roadmap for a bright and hopeful future for nursing. Donna will outline the amazing opportunities before us to create a new paradigm that will empower, enlighten, and elevate the profession to new heights. With her customary humor, animated style, and forward vision, Donna will uplift and energize to illuminate a new path for all to follow. Look out, world, here come the Nurses! Attendees will learn: • Strategies for personal and professional recovery, rebirth, and renewal • Mechanisms for honoring the past while leaving behind what no longer serves us • Techniques to become profound change agents • Empowerment strategies that will transform your practice

Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I check Donna Cardillo's availability or request a quote?
    You can inquire about Donna Cardillo'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 Donna Cardillo's speaking fee?
    The typical range for Donna Cardillo's speaking fee is $8,000–$15,000. 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 Donna Cardillo 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 Donna Cardillo for my event?
    The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Donna Cardillo'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 Donna Cardillo 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 Donna Cardillo

Connie Podesta

Connie Podesta

Organizational therapist, human resource professional, and expert in the psychology of human behavior, Connie Podesta is internationally known for her high-energy, interactive and entertaining sessions. Having worked with hundreds of corporations nationwide, Connie has an insider's knowledge of organizations and uses this unique perspective to create customized presentations on key issues such as personal accountability, communication, life balance. Her business expertise combined with her diverse talents as a comedienne, author, Board Certified Professional Counselor, and radio/TV personality enable Connie to inspire her audiences to reach new heights in their personal and professional development.


Fee Range: $15,000–$25,000
Travels From: TX

Scott Friedman

Scott Friedman

Scott Friedman, Global Speaking Fellow, and former President of the National Speakers Association (NSA), speaks over 60 times a year on employee innovation & engagement, customer experience and how to create a happier, healthier workplace. He is a past President of the National Speakers Association, and one of 40 Global Speaking Fellows in the world. His latest two books are "Celebrate! Lessons Learned From the World’s Most Admired Organizations" and “A Celebration a Day - 365 ways to a Happier, Healthier Workplace.”


Fee Range: $6,000–$8,500
Travels From: CO

Karyn Buxman

Karyn Buxman

Karyn Buxman is an international speaker, successful author, and neurohumorist (living at the intersection of the brain and humor). Karyn is a pioneer in the field of applied humor, starting with her masters thesis in graduate school and now continues her partnerships with leading neuroscientists. Today Karyn helps leaders—and those they serve—achieve peak performance and optimum health through the art and science of applied humor. More than 500 organizations—including NASA, the Mayo Clinic and the Million Dollar Round Table have hired Karyn to entertain, educate, and inspire their audiences again and again. She is one of 227 people in the world—and one of only 39 women—to be inducted into the National Speaker’s Association’s Speaker Hall of Fame. Karyn’s mission: To improve global health, business, and peace through laughter and heal the humor-impaired.


Fee Range: $10,000–$20,000
Travels From: CA

Bill Butterworth

Bill Butterworth

Bill Butterworth is an award-winning speaker and author with nearly 40 titles to his name. Bill’s extraordinary ability to blend humor, storytelling, wisdom and practicality has resonated with a wide range of audiences across the globe. For close to 30 years Bill has traveled full-time speaking to hundreds of audiences, including Fortune 500 clients such as Microsoft, Walt Disney, Ford, Chrysler, Bank of America, and Verizon, as well as over 50 professional sports teams in the NFL, NBA, and Major League Baseball. Beyond speaking, Bill has authored over three-dozen books as a writer and a ghostwriter. His latest contribution is a book entitled Everyday Influence. Other authored titles include such classics as Balancing Work and Life, Building Successful Teams, The Short List, and The Promise of the Second Wind. Before his speaking and writing career took shape, Bill taught at the college level for thirteen years and was a counselor for six years.


Fee Range: $6,000–$8,000
Travels From: TX

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