Martha McSally

Speech Topics

• Be Unbreakable: The Leadership Edge in Uncertain Times

  Lead With Courage. Adapt With Agility. Accelerate Growth. Does your team need a battle-tested strategy to lead with confidence, adapt with agility, and turn uncertainty into unstoppable growth? Colonel Martha McSally has spent her life thriving in high-pressure, high-stakes environments—and she’s here to equip your audience with the mindset and tools to do the same. In a world of economic volatility, industry disruption, and relentless change, hesitation can be the difference between success and failure. As the first American woman to command a fighter squadron in combat, McSally understands how to lead decisively, build trust-driven teams, and make bold moves—even in the most unpredictable situations. A decorated fighter pilot, leadership strategist, and endurance athlete, McSally brings unmatched experience in overcoming adversity and making high-stakes decisions under extreme pressure. Beyond the cockpit, she has advised CEOs, competed in Ironman triathlons, and mastered the art of resilience—both in the battlefield and the boardroom. McSally’s keynote is more than just inspiration—it’s a leadership game plan. She shares her WEDGE framework, a battle-tested roadmap to help leaders wake up, expand their capabilities, direct their focus, build trust, and execute with agility. What to Expect: Martha McSally delivers an electrifying, high-energy keynote that will have your audience ready to take action. Through powerful storytelling, humor, and real-world leadership lessons, she connects with each attendee’s challenges and provides them with a proven framework to thrive in uncertain times. Audiences Will Learn: • How to stay calm, focused, and confident in the face of uncertainty • The decision-making strategies elite leaders use under pressure • How to build trust-driven, high-performance teams that execute relentlessly • A blueprint for shifting from reactive to strategic, agile leadership • How to transform adversity into momentum and lead with courage This is not just another leadership talk—it’s a call to action. No more hesitation. No more playing small. It’s time to lead boldly, adapt rapidly, and accelerate growth.

• I AM… How to Soar as Your Best Self

  Inspiration | Personal Growth | Authentic Leadership In this powerful and deeply moving keynote, Colonel Martha McSally takes the audience on a transformative journey to discover their true identity—unlocking a life of authenticity, connection, and freedom in both their personal and professional lives. This keynote will have your teams inspired, energized, and ready to take off and take on the world. “Who are you?” How you answer that question defines your core identity and shapes your decision-making, priorities, and overall life satisfaction. For many, the answer is tied to job titles, academic degrees, or roles in life (mother, father, executive, veteran). While these roles are important, they don’t define who you truly are. When those roles are stripped away, it can leave us feeling lost or unsure of ourselves. Often, we mistakenly attach our identity to painful life experiences (I AM a victim, survivor, divorcee) or emotions (I AM anxious, I AM depressed), but those are experiences and feelings—not who we are. Martha draws from her own journey of personal growth and healing, sharing how she initially attached her identity to external roles, titles, and traumatic experiences. She opens up about the courageous steps she took to shed false identities and reconnect with her true self. Now, she coaches others through a step-by-step process to break free from limiting beliefs and thrive as their authentic selves. In this keynote, Martha combines powerful storytelling, life-changing insights, and interactive audience engagement—including hands-on worksheets and exercises—to guide participants in reconnecting with who they truly are. This clarity empowers them to show up and perform in their “Zone of Genius” at work while making life decisions that align with their core identity.

• How to Overcome Adversity and Adapt to Reach the Next Level

  Inspiration | Peak Performance | Leadership & Agility In a highly competitive world, overcoming adversity and adapting quickly are essential for success. Greatness comes from learning that nothing can stop you. When you can move through obstacles with confidence and resilience, success becomes inevitable. It’s the role of leaders to teach, push, and empower their teams to reach this mindset and perform at their highest potential. Today’s fast-moving business landscape—marked by constant change, technological advancements, and global disruptions—can feel like modern-day warfare. Imagine unlocking combat-proven strategies to systematically take risks, adapt, and thrive. Colonel Martha McSally, the first woman in U.S. history to command a fighter squadron in combat, knows exactly how to lead under fire. As a decorated combat leader awarded the Bronze Star, Colonel McSally commanded 24 A-10 attack aircraft and hundreds of personnel. She was responsible for $500 million in assets and deployed her squadron worldwide with just 24-hours’ notice. Under her leadership, her squadron earned the prestigious David C. Shilling Award for the best contribution to national defense. Fighter pilots are trained to assess risks, adapt in real time, and execute with precision in dangerous environments—skills that apply directly to business and leadership. In this gripping and practical keynote, Colonel McSally shares battle-tested peak performance and risk-management strategies that will help your teams innovate, collaborate, and execute with agility and confidence. To thrive in today’s ever-changing world, teams must adopt an agility mindset. When you’re light on your feet, leaning forward, and ready to adapt, challenges become opportunities for exponential growth. McSally’s step-by-step approach helps your team develop this mindset, beat the competition, and soar to new heights of performance. From leading initial air operations in Afghanistan after 9/11 to setting up the U.S. Africa Command from scratch—overseeing counterterrorism, disaster relief, and large-scale operations—McSally’s expertise in strategic planning, process improvement, and leadership under pressure makes her uniquely qualified to inspire and equip teams for peak performance. If you’re seeking a speaker who can inspire and practically equip your team for success in a turbulent world, book Colonel McSally now. Audiences Will Learn: • Combat-tested risk management and decision-making strategies for high-pressure environments • How to develop an agility mindset to stay competitive and adaptable in a fast-changing world • Leadership lessons on motivating and empowering teams to achieve peak performance • Innovative approaches to overcoming challenges and turning setbacks into opportunities • Step-by-step tools to improve collaboration, strategic planning, and execution under pressure

• Soar like a Top-Gun Pilot: Leadership Lessons (Inspirational)

  Inspirational | Motivational | Actionable Does your audience need inspiration, motivation, and actionable takeaways to push through adversity, overcome fear, and kick productivity into afterburner? Colonel Martha McSally has proven she has the right stuff to survive and excel in high-pressure, high-risk, high-stakes environments. In today’s world of uncertainty and constant challenges, setbacks are inevitable. When your team needs motivation and practical tools to push through obstacles with innovation and resilience, Martha McSally is the leader to guide them. As the first American woman to command a fighter squadron in combat, she knows firsthand how to persevere, excel, and inspire others to succeed—even in the toughest circumstances. A Bronze Star recipient and pioneer in aviation, Colonel McSally brings unparalleled experience leading men and women in combat, thriving in adversity, and navigating complex, high-stakes operations. Beyond her military career, she’s also an endurance athlete, mountain climber, and survivor who overcame personal tragedy and trauma with strength and determination. With a life filled with triumphs, setbacks, and powerful lessons, McSally authentically inspires audiences while equipping them with actionable strategies to thrive. She shares how vulnerability, courage, and resilience are the keys to pushing beyond limits and soaring to your full potential. What to Expect: Colonel McSally will have your audience on the edge of their seats, feeling like they’re in the cockpit of the A-10 “Warthog” on a complex combat mission. Through humor, transparency, and gripping storytelling, she connects with each attendee’s personal challenges and provides a realistic yet optimistic flight plan for success—both professionally and personally. Audiences Will Learn: • How to face fear head-on and turn setbacks into fuel for growth • The leadership principles needed to thrive in high-pressure environments • Strategies for building resilience and staying mission-focused in times of uncertainty • How to create routines and decisions that align with core values and drive success • The power of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership and life

Books

Buy on Amazon ›

Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I check Martha McSally's availability or request a quote?

  You can inquire about Martha McSally'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 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 Martha McSally for my event?

  The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Martha McSally'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 Martha McSally 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.