TESTIMONIALS

On behalf of the entire Project Lifesaver International’s 25th Anniversary team, I want to extend a warm thank you for your participation at this year’s conference. Your presentation was informative, engaging, and thought-provoking. I personally received many positive comments regarding the information you delivered. Your insights, expertise and engaging delivery held the audience’s attention, making the conference experience memorable. I am also grateful for the positive impact and the connections you made that greatly benefited all who were in attendance.

 -Gene Saunders, Founder & CEO Project Lifesaver International

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As we all know, these are complex topics, your ability to connect with the audience deepened their understanding of those issues, you also provided them with valuable takeaways that they can incorporate at the local level in their agencies.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for yesterday’s presentation. Your story and dedication to serving our country were truly inspiring and deeply moving. Your experiences and insights provided invaluable perspectives that resonated with many of us as we continue to navigate change in higher education in a post-pandemic world. Your commitment and testament to strength and perseverance are commendable, and we are incredibly grateful for your service and for sharing with our USDLA family.

-Erica B., MBA, CC | 2024 USDLA Conference

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Thank you for an inspiring presentation, our attendees were riveted and took away great lessons!

-USDLA

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Your dedication to the principles of leadership, teamwork, and perseverance is truly inspiring, and your unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their goals is something that I deeply admire.

I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for speaking at the BC Partners Credit Annual Investor Conference. Your work as a former Navy SEAL, author, and motivational speaker has impacted the lives of countless individuals, including my own. Through your books and speaking engagements, you have shared valuable insights and lessons on how to overcome adversity, push through challenges, and achieve success.

 I particularly appreciate the way you emphasize the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving one's goals. Your experiences as a member of an elite military unit have clearly taught you the value of working together towards a common objective, and your message resonates strongly with me. Thank you for your service to our country, and for your ongoing commitment to helping others achieve their full potential. Your dedication, courage, and leadership are truly an inspiration, and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from you.

Please continue to do amazing things and inspiring others and thank you again for such a wonderful event and experience.

With sincere thanks,

-Gordon Shu

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Members (from our audience) shared how much they loved your presentation and were inspired by you.    

It was truly an honor and a privileged for all of the members of the NJPSAC to have you as our Keynote Speaker.  You presentation was very well received.  I had many conversations yesterday with members who shared how much they loved your presentation and were inspired by you.    

On a personal note I want to personally tell you how much i enjoyed the opportunity to have dinner with you.  As I mentioned, I was very star struck, but being able to spend a few minutes with you really made me even more of a fan. 

It was truly a blessing and an honor for me to meet you personally. Thank you for your service to our great country and to the inspiration you have given so many people especially, the members of our organization. 

Respectfully Submitted,

-Ryan H. 

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If you want to be truly moved and inspired, listen to Don Mann’s life story, and what a journey it is!

If you want to be truly moved and inspired, listen to Don Mann’s life story, and what a journey it is! We had the honor and privilege of hearing him share his journey at Kelley Kronenberg’s 2019 holiday party and he was nothing short of amazing. The life he has lived, and continues to live, is beyond imaginable for an average civilian, or so you’d think as that is exactly how he started out.

At first and like many of us, he could barely run a few miles. With training (both mental and physical), practice, and a ton of dedication, this man served our country as a Navy SEAL Team Six Commando, ran countless marathons and Ironman’s – he’s even done Double and Triple Ironman’s and he’s a NY Times best-selling author! That’s only the tip of the iceberg on Don’s successes and achievements. Impressive doesn’t quite describe Don’s credentials. To be that dedicated and driven takes a certain type of mindset and mental training.  Staying in the Combat Mindset and setting small micro goals to achieve your ultimate macro goal will lead you to the road of greatness.

We had a crowd of 300 people and everyone was completely mesmerized. He helped us realize if we focus a little more on ourselves – we can achieve anything we set our minds to. I hope Don’s words of wisdom and encouragement to go for those macro goals inspired everyone in the room as much as they inspired me. 

Thank you again for sharing your perspective on life with myself and Kelley Kronenberg.

— Quote Source

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From introduction to final words Don held us captive and hanging on every word.

Don Mann is one of the sincerest, genuine and insightful men I have ever met. I had the pleasure of hearing Don speak at an invitation only medical gathering of successful medical providers. From introduction to final words Don held us captive and hanging on every word. 

I would categorize Don as a Samurai; loyal, courageous and honorable.  Putting others and the greater good above self; the way of the Samurai.  Throughout his presentation, Don never used the work “I”.  It was always his family, his mentors and his team.  His discussion included his early years as a motocross rider striving to succeed under his mentor’s guidance. Moving forward, as an athlete he followed many of the greats in the arena of multisport and endurance sports achieving high honors and success but never forgetting who facilitated his success.  The ultimate challenge and goal lay undauntedly on the horizon.  Not just becoming a Navy SEAL but joining the elite of the elite – SEAL Team 6.  As a team member, he supported some of the most grueling and vital missions securing our freedom and suppressing terror globally.  He highlighted some of these missions but always gave credit to the team.  Never boastful or arrogant but grateful for the experience and those he served with.  So respected by his fellow operators and superiors he was charged with training future SEAL’s at SEAL Team TWO and at SEAL Team SIX.  A 26-week training challenge that develops SEAL candidates’ mental and physical stamina and leadership skills.  It is estimated that only 6% of those who enter BUD/S actually complete the training and go on to become SEAL’s.  Don utilizes these stories to emphasis the importance of teamwork, selflessness, courage and discipline.  The saying; one is none, two is one certainly applies here and reverberates throughout his presentation.

No one succeeds without failure!  Failure breeds opportunity and hunger.  Don’s recounting his own failures give us all hope that success, regardless of definition is possible.  As an athlete, operator, author and entrepreneur Don has failed but each time, through a team effort he has risen to greater heights and utilized the experience to encourage others to pursue their passion.

Don’t closing comments were of inspiration, motivation and hope.  His stories of his Everest assent and what is on the horizon for him left us all on the edge of our seat and wanting more insight of what it takes to be successful, honorable and grateful in our own lives.

I left the presentation with renewed zeal and vigor eager to face my challenges and not be afraid to fail.  Heck, what do I have to lose versus the potential of personal improvement in all areas of my life. 

It is without reservation and great appreciation and pride that I recommend Don Mann to ignite and mesmerize your privileged audience. 

— Dr. Stephen A. Black. Scholar, author, athlete and Entrepreneur

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“Your remarkable story is unforgettable”

Don,

Once again, thank you so much for your very inspiring presentation last evening at the Fireside Chat.

Your remarkable story is unforgettable. The courage and will power that you impart during your presentation helps us to understand what it takes to become a Navy Seal and a world class competitor. Admiration is not a strong enough word to describe the affect of meeting someone of your caliber. As Americans, we owe such a debt of gratitude to you and the Elite fighters and all of the men and women in Uniform who give up so much of their home life to unselfishly protect our country. May God bless and continue to watch over all of you.

On a personal note, I was deeply move by your story because it gave me insight into the mindset that my father must have had to endure his years as a P.O.W. during World War II.

He never talked about it so I deeply appreciate the understanding that dawned during your presentation. It was a gift that I will treasure.

May you continue to achieve the goals that you set while staying bound to your stated philosophy of not going over the bar of reasonable bodily expectation. I commend your charitable character and how you make a difference in this world.

With deep respect and gratitude,

-Robin

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Your talk will absolutely make a positive impact with our team!

It’s not often you come across someone as accomplished as Don Mann with the genuine willingness to share their personal experiences and insights. The life that he has lived and continues to live is inspirational beyond belief. At the same time Don shares simple truths that all of us can easily adopt to improve our lives, regardless of what our individual goals might be. In a never-ending desire to get the most out of life, I want to thank Don for sharing his life experiences with our organization. It absolutely will make a positive impact.

- Mike Miadich. Co-Founder, EdgeLink.

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Few people on earth have fit more into a life than Don Mann

Don Mann’s Presentation “Reaching Beyond Boundaries”
Review by Devon O’Neil, Outside Magazine

Mann, a retired Navy SEAL who’s also a New York Times bestselling author and accomplished endurance athlete and mountaineer, now focuses his attention on inspiring others to achieve goals they never imagined they could. As a sought-after motivational speaker around the U.S., Mann addresses a wide range of audiences —from major corporations like Wells Fargo, CSX, to Daimler Chrysler and Merrill Lynch, to universities, to professional sports teams. He takes crowds inside a gripping underworld of risk and courage, while relating tales from the battlefield as well as from grueling sufferfests like competing in two Ironman triathlons in one day.

His message includes equal doses of inspiration and strategy. AS he likes to say, “Anybody with the proper mindset can achieve anything imaginable.” The key, which he relates in his “Reaching Beyond Boundaries” presentation, is to “turn macros goals into micro goals.”

Mann explains how to do that with what he calls a “combat mindset,” the foundation of his wartime survival and success beyond the military. Put simple, the combat mindset is one ‘s ability to screen out distractions while under great stress. In his presentations, Mann speaks candidly about his failures but also regales crowds with stories from a world few will ever experience.

Mann also uses sports to communicate his message. Not only did he compete in endurance competitions around the world from Patagonia to South Africa to Tibet, he also climbed mountains in North America (Denali), Africa (Kilimanjaro), the Andes and the Himalayas (Everest attempt). Mann also directed Primal Quest, widely considered the world’s toughest endurance race in the world.

“There are so many athletes so much faster, stronger, smarter, and more experienced that I have ever been, but my mindset allowed me to compete in the same arena as them,” Mann says.

As a Merrill Lynch executive said after watching Mann address his employees, “Everyone in the room wanted to hear Don speak for additional time and we carries the presentation into dinner. One thing I can say for certain – ‘motivational speakers’ are a dime a dozen. It’s truly moving when you hear Don speak because he is credible, legitimate, and honest.”

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We all walked away amazed with his military and endurance sport stories and inspired to do “just a little bit more” each day.

“This presentation is great for anyone who wants to push their limits, whether it be at the workplace, health related or with personal goals. Using his many years as a Navy SEAL and endurance athlete, Don Mann illustrates through personal stories, the fact that humans have amazing capacity and that we often shortchange ourselves by not reaching for what we are truly capable of doing. We all walked away amazed with his military and endurance sport stories and inspired to do “just a little bit more” each day. We got this! Thanks Don!”

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I know I can speak on behalf of everyone involved when I say that Don is one of the most remarkable speakers any of us has ever heard.

Working for an NHL team in Canada, I often see fans ask for players’ autographs. Only once have I witnessed players ask for someone else’s – it was for Don Mann’s after he spoke to our players and coaches prior to the 2013-14 Vancouver Canucks season. I know I can speak on behalf of everyone involved when I say that Don is one of the most remarkable speakers any of us has ever heard. Don has a humble approach, which helps him immediately connect with his audience. You likely wouldn’t sense his incredible accomplishments when you first meet him, however his stories and seemingly impossible life experiences in the military and extreme sports are nothing short of extraordinary. He explained his goal setting strategy, which is built on setting a series of “mirco goals” that helped him reach larger goals that would not otherwise be possible. He gave us examples of how physical and mental limits can be pushed and overcome with the right mindset. Don has helped us become a better group. A stronger team. And I know his continued influence will help our players overcome the challenges that inevitably happen during the season.

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Mr. Mann’s presentation was the crowing jewel for a perfect day.

I am writing to express my unequivocal recommendation for Mr. Don Mann as a motivational speaker. He recently spoke to a group of 170 healthcare providers at the 17th annual Trauma Symposium in San Angelo, Texas. The audience comprised of Physicians, Nurses and Paramedics. The speakers were subject matter experts on a multitude of topics and Mr. Mann’s presentation was the crowing jewel for a perfect day. The audience evaluations were stunningly positive and complimentary. If I can be of any assistance please feel free to contact me.

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I think any group would greatly enjoy a presentation by Don and would benefit by hearing what he has to say.

Don Mann spoke to an auditorium full of DaimlerChrysler employees at corporate headquarters. One of the important attributes of an effective leader is to have the proper mindset and team attitude. I had been through several of Don’s SEAL Training Adventure and was extremely impressed at how quickly the notion of teamwork is instilled – you either coalesce as a team to succeed or you fail miserably and pay the price. It was a great microcosm of how the business world works and I remember thinking that if ten percent of the people at Chrysler could experience this event, the company would be unstoppable. With this in mind, I asked Don to address our group and he gave an incredibly inspiring presentation. I was a little concerned about the topic since the audience would be very diverse. I thought it might come across as a little strong coming this highly decorated former Navy SEAL. MY concerns were all for naught. I had never received so many positive comments after one of our presentations than I had from Don’s. I had women coming up to me after he finished stating that they wished Don had more time to talk. And quite honestly, I thought the women attending might provide negative feedback to my post-meeting survey. I believe Don’s presentation had the most impact of any speaker I had invited. People memorized parts of his presentation and other had posted some of his quotes on their office walls. A colleague of mine recently told me that he still had Don Mann sayings on his wall, “hell yes!” and he proceeded to read a few of them off, and this is six years after Don’s presentation). I cannot say enough good things about Don and his presentation and how effective it was. I think any group would greatly enjoy a presentation by Don and would benefit by hearing what he has to say. He certainly has the credentials and has lived the experiences to be able to convey his topic with much authority and credibility.

- E.D.M., Senior Manager Product Strategy, DAIMLERCHRYSLER

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What an impact he left and how inspirational his talk was!

Don Mann is such an awesome and very humble man. It was an Honor serving with him in Naval Special Warfare and getting to know him. I think everyone loved him and it was nice that he was able to see a few SEALs he trained at the Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund. Mr. Mann also did a video call with Mid-Michigan Multi Sports and those folks are still talking about him, what an impact he left and how inspirational his talk was!!!

- B.M., Financial Advisor, Fallen and Wounded Soldiers

I am not embarrassed to say I had a tear in my eye.

It was my great pleasure to attend The Savannah Book Festival on February 15 &16. There were many great moments at The Festival, but nothing compared to the ten minute standing ovation given to Navy Seal and author Don Mann. His talk was very inspirational, and when he concluded the audience of some 200 people rose to show their respect and appreciation. I am not embarrassed to say I had a tear in my eye.

- G.Z., President / GM, Smith and Wollensky

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Your presentation was inspiring to me as well as the entire group of attendees – it was excellent.

Mr. Mann: It was entirely my pleasure to meet you at the DTN Ag Summit in Chicago. Honestly, I was humbled to be in the presence of such a physically strong and mentally aware hero. Your presentation was inspiring to me as well as the entire group of attendees – it was excellent. Generally, I’m not one to “take notes” at such a presentation, about half way through yours I picked up my pen and a notepad and started taking notes! I particularly like your quote “If you’re going through hell, don’t slow down”! In life, in a career, in sports training, in raising teenagers, this saying really applies. When we visited I had mentioned that I was preparing for a ½ marathon – it’s been a lot longer process than I’d ever imagined. Last year, everything was going well, 5K , 10K, 15K various other distance competitions and for my 47 year old butt, I had finally figured out that I was only competing against my own time, not some person I’d never see again in my life – all was going well until……. I missed a step on my back porch, fell, landed on my tailbone and ruptured a disc. What a bummer. However, I was fortunate to have found a surgeon that didn’t want to operate on me, encouraged me to stay active and recover on my own. On Monday of this week, he gave me the go-ahead to get back to running and training. That was a 9 month recovery and it seemed to have taken on a life of its own. The good news? I’ll be ready for the San Luis Obispo ½ marathon by early April, come hell or high water. I promise you, I’ll use your address to our group as my inspiration, I promise you. I wish you well and all the best in your career. Thanks for your service to our country and thanks for being an inspiration to so many.

- J.K.., DTN, The Progressive Farmer

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Check your pulse!

Regardless of your attitude about the military or dangerous sports, if you are not quickly motivated by the credibility Don’s gripping stories bring to the topic of facing adversity with a positive attitude and tackling life’s challenges with a mission focus and team spirit, then CHECK YOUR PULSE!

- R.B.P.D.., President, Brandon Partners

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You give people a glimpse into a world that most cannot imagine.

Don, I just want to say thank-you again. It was great to see you. When you were speaking (to the Washington Stealth Team) you could’ve heard a pin drop and you could tell by the body language that everyone in the room was completely rapt! You give people a glimpse into a world that most cannot imagine. I do think there is a correlation to sports, even if they are warriors of a different kind. Thank-you again for being so willing to come out on such short notice and rearrange your life to do so.

- D.W., Owner of the Washington Stealth Professional Lacrosse Team, Washington Stealth Professional Lacrosse Team

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His stories found a way to hit home with everyone in the audience.

I am writing this letter to convey how extremely happy Fidelity was with Don Mann as our Keynote Speaker at our recent Sales Rally at Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut. Don is a true American hero who has dedicated his life to serving our country and helping others. He spoke to the crowd about his experiences as a Navy SEAL as well as a professional athlete and although it was a room full of business people his stories found a way to hit home with everyone in the audience, Don is tireless and inspiring in all aspects, even with his continued career as a writer and speaker shows just how sincere he is in motivating others and using his personal experiences to try to push others to their maximum potential. Inside SEAL Team 6 was a compelling read and many of my employees were so inspired by Don’s presentation that my office ordered several books for the staff. He received a standing ovation from the crowd and we look forward to using him again in the future if possible. Professional he was extremely easy to work with and I continue to get fantastic feedback on him on a regular basis from coworkers. In conclusion I would like to reiterate our enthusiasm support of Don Mann as a speaker / writer and individual. Feel free to contact me with any questions / comments or concerns.

- M.D., Human Resources Administrator, Fidelity National Title

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Your tales of setting extraordinary goals were inspiring…

Your tales of setting extraordinary goals were inspiring, and your examples of “ordinary” people who took on these great challenges were fascinating.

- V.M.V., CEO, Agility Resources Group

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Your life experiences and insight into personal growth are invaluable and inspiring.

Dear Don It was an honor to have you speak at AspenRidge Recovery Center (August 17th, 2015). Thank you for taking the time to do this. I have received many positive comments and reflections about your speech from clients and staff. Your life experiences and insight into personal growth are invaluable and inspiring. We would be honored to have you return to our center in the future. Thanks again for providing such a compelling and motivating speech. We will talk with you again soon.

- C.V., Executive Director, Aspenridge Recovery

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You obviously had the crowd’s attention as your evaluations came back 4.6 out of 5, some of the very top ratings for our speakers over the last seven years.

Living at Race Pace I want to thank you for presenting at the Ag Summit earlier this month. You obviously had the crowd’s attention as your evaluations came back 4.6 out of 5, some of the very top ratings for our speakers over the last seven years. That’s a reflection of their admiration for what you and other SEALs have done to push themselves to the limit on behalf of our country. I don’t think anyone left the room without a new awareness of the extreme physical training and endurance required to be a SEAL. You are the kind of guys we want protecting us as air marshals or rescuing Middle East hostages! I’ll never think of America’s elite warriors the same after hearing Navy SEAL Team Six member Don Mann speak at this week’s DTN/The Progressive Farmer Ag Summit-and I will certainly never use analogies to war as lightly as I have in the past. I’ll warn you now, if you’re squeamish, you might want to quit reading. This wasn’t a PG-13 event. As both Mann and the best-selling book “Lone Survivor” by Marcus Luttrell describe it, SEAL Team members are the elite of the elite of the Navy’s special forces, the Spartan warriors of the modern world. They practice a physical and mental discipline so demanding, it may shock the uninitiated but it is also designed to strike fear in the terrorist world. It’s not for the faint of heart, or for those unwilling to run through life at race pace. They view themselves as the avengers of the innocent victims of September 11. That thought-along with an unbroken commitment to their comrades- gives them a motivation that a normal desk job could never match. SEAL Team Six was once cloaked in secrecy, but its members not only killed Osama Bin Laden, they rescued hostages like cargo ship Captain Richard Phillips from pirates and parachuted in to save U.S. aid workers held for months in Somalia.

- T., The Progressive Farmer

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Don is a true leader that should be heard and anyone who is lucky enough to interact with him will walk away inspired.

He is the real deal, encourages everyone to look inside themselves and strive for their fullest potential. Don is a true leader that should be heard and anyone who is lucky enough to interact with him will walk away inspired.

- J.P.H.J.., OTR Global

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Keynote Speaker - NJPSAC

It was truly an honor and a privileged for all of the members of the NJPSAC to have Don Mann as our Keynote Speaker. His presentation was very well received. I had many conversations yesterday with members who shared how much they loved his presentation and were inspired by it.

 On a personal note I want to personally tell Don Mann how much i enjoyed the opportunity to have dinner with you. As I mentioned, I was very star struck, but being able to spend a few minutes with him and it really made me even more of a fan.

 It was truly a blessing and an honor for me to meet Don personally. Thank you for your service to our great country and to the inspiration you have given so many people especially, the members of our organization. Please lean on me and our organization if we can ever help or be of service to you in anyway now or in the future.

 Respectfully Submitted,

 -RH.

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Audience, both young and old, were mesmerized with every word.

Dear Don, What a pleasure to service as Chairman of the distinguished Citizen Award for 2016 for a 90 year old, WW2 soldier who served in the US Army 4th Armored Division under General George Patton, was an interrogator of German Prisoners and was an observer at the Nuremberg trials in 1946. Your participation in the program as our guest speaker was absolutely perfect for the evening. Over 100 people from the community thoroughly enjoyed your presentation and were amazed by your comments on Micro and Macro goal setting and planning and acting on our challenges. The audience, both young and old, were mesmerized with every word. I continue to receive emails and class on what a moving and enjoyable evening we had. would do it again – IN A HEARTBEAT!!!!!!!!

- C.P., Chairman of the Distinguished Citizen Award, BSA - Distinguished Citizen Award Ceremony

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The micro-goal and macro-goal resonated very well with my team and something they plan on implementing in their day to day business.

Don, Thank you for such a wonderful speech to my team. You are an amazing person, who has accomplished more than anyone could imagine. The micro-goal and macro-goal resonated very well with my team and something they plan on implementing in their day to day business. As a Veteran, I thank you again for your service to our country. I had many people come up to me after the event and say they will sleep well knowing that Navy SEALs like you are protecting our country. While I am sure none of us will “bonk” anytime in our future, we all need to focus more and realize the possibilities when you put your “mind” to the goal. Thank you again, and I hope our paths cross again in the future at another team building event.

- B.W., Piper Jaffray & Co.

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You are a role model for raising the bar and achieving personal excellence.

Dear Don, Your recent speech to the CBV management team was inspiring. You are a role model for raising the bar and achieving personal excellence. Your stories about dramatic survivals, dangerous missions and extreme tests of human endurance showed us that anything is possible. Thank you for sharing your unique perspective with us.

- B.R., President and CEO, CBV Collection Services

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Don knows how to set goals and then go after them.

Don knows how to set goals and then go after them. This his former Navy Seal also happens to be a best selling author, motivational speaker, mountaineer and world-class endurance athlete. In his popular and inspirational presentation “Reaching Beyond Boundaries” Mann shares the secret to his success and helps other to pursue their goals as well. If anyone know how to push beyond personal boundaries it’s Mann. His military career spanned over two decades where he witnessed first hand that when working together there was little his unit could not accomplish. Mann took part in countless SEAL operations around the globe, many of which remain classified to this day. Time and again, he and his teammates were assigned risky objectives that other units were not trained or equipped to handle, but by first identifying their “macro-goals” and then creating a series of more manageable “micro-goals,” the team could devise a plan that would ultimately lead to success. Mann would later take this same mindset and apply it to other aspects of his life including his personal athletic pursuits. Using the proven process of creating a macro-goal for himself and then identifying the micro-goals that would help him achieve it, he soon found himself learning to reach beyond even his own personal boundaries. Mann reveals stories and personal anecdotes from his many years working with the SEAL teams and competing as a world-class athlete. He also shares insights into his personal philosophy of setting micro-goals to achieve larger macro-goals, while instructing individuals, small groups and larger organization on how to employ that same philosophy to achieve both personal and professional success. “By breaking those larger goals down into smaller ones, they become much more manageable and easier to handle. By first accomplishing those micro-goals, you’ll soon be on the path to reaching the macro ones as well.”

- K.B., Author, The Adventure Blog

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Your participation was beyond impactful for all 900 attendees.

Don, Thank you so much for joining us yesterday. Your participation was beyond impactful for all 900 attendees. I was so amazed to hear each individual member speak with you at the book signing. The message clearly resonated with them…each in a unique and amazing way.

- G.F.., Chicago Traffic Club

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I saw almost every person walk away enthused and talking about what they were going to do to ‘push their own boundaries’.

Don’s presentation was entertaining but, most importantly, it really instilled in our group the principle that we are all capable of achieving personal greatness if we dare be proactive and step beyond the invisible boundaries we’ve set up around ourselves. Our company will often pay a fee, exceeding what we paid to Don, to send just one of our employees for training. I felt that our company received more than our money’s worth when I saw almost every person walk away enthused and talking about what they were going to do to ‘push their own boundaries’.

- E.M.., Chrysler

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I would recommend Don Mann to any organization searching out how to get the most out of each individual involved and the team as a whole.

Don Mann did a fantastic job of presenting to the Midwestern State University Tennis Programs the importance of setting micro-goals that lead to macro-goals. This process allows people to push past their own limitations. Even though he has done many remarkable things in his own life, Don was extremely personable and humble about his own accomplishments which really helped the young people realize they can accomplish great things in their own lives. His presentation allowed student-athletes to realize that it is normally not their bodies but their minds that stand in the way of their own personal greatness. His team-building event with the MSU Men’s Tennis Team was exceptional as well, The guys learned to work together, take leadership roles, work with each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and see who can use reasoning and/or memory skills ot help the group become successful. Again during team building, Don was great at helping the young men work through obstacles. I would recommend Don Mann to any organization searching out how to get the most out of each individual involved and the team as a whole.

- S.L., MSU Tennis Coach, Midwestern State University

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If you have the opportunity to hear Don speak, you are in for a treat.

Don Mann’s presentation at our 83rd Annual Meeting on March 22, 2012 wasn’t just about being a Navy SEAL or competing in extreme distance adventure races, it was about using your mindset to set and achieve your goals. He provides examples on how to be successful in what you do in life by having a ‘combat’ mindset. If you’ve read Don’s book, Inside SEAL Team Six, he notes that most people find him laid back and calm and that is certainly how he presents himself, but under that austere in an adrenaline junkie just waiting to explode. His life is amazing and what he has accomplished and contributed to the safety of this country is beyond belief. We are extremely fortunate to have people like Don serving in our military, protecting us while we sleep and preparing the next generation. If you have the opportunity to hear Don speak, you are in for a treat. His passion may not be immediately apparent, but you can feel it growing there right under the surface. Listen to his message as he builds his life history and find out for yourself how to recognize or implement the combat mindset because it is all around you.

- T.M.P., Allied Construction Industries

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Don Mann is the real thing. He walks the walk and then some, and then some, and then some more.

Where do you start with a person like Don? When you look at his credentials you are completely in awe and intimidated. When you meet him and hear him speak you are completely in awe and humbled. Don spoke to over 240 people at our regional APPA conference and he received an extended standing ovation. After his presentation the audience seemed quiet and maybe a little reserved and I realized that everyone was still trying to wrap their minds around what had been set before them. He began by identifying a common character flaw. Then related his lifelong experiences of how it confronted him and how he chose to deal with it His journey to achieve a mindset that would not only shape who he was but also some of America’s best Heroes was plotted like a graph and plunked down right in our laps for us to wrestle with. Now it was our journey. People are still talking about it several weeks later and the impact will now shape my life and hopefully my children’s lives. We have even adopted a couple of catch phrases from him. In fact several have mentioned that he may be a little crazy…. But trust me, it’s a good crazy. I could not manage to tell Don “nice speech” that day, but I did say, “Thank you for your sacrifice and your way of life.” Don Mann is the real thing. He walks the walk and then some, and then some, and then some more.

- P.A., APPA Conference Casper College

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Don was a very interesting and provocative speaker while also interjecting some humor into the evening.

We engaged Don Mann to address our group of approximately 150 attendees at a dinner during our National Sales Conference. Don was a very interesting and provocative speaker while also interjecting some humor into the evening. The content of his presentation, message and core convictions towards achieving success were extremely well received by the group and served to bolster the strategic themes of our conference in a very positive fashion. All the attendees were inspired by Don’s “never give up” attitude and were also awed by all of his personal and professional accomplishments. There is no question that a large number of our team members will commit to achieving more in both their personal and professional endeavors as a result of being exposed to Don’s goal oriented approach to life. In short, we were very pleased with our engagement with Don Mann…we would look forward to having him address our various constituencies in the future and I would enthusiastically recommend Don to other organizations.

- D.R., Senior Vice President - Chief Revenue Officer , Bankrate Inc.

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Your presentation was genuinely inspirational.

I would like to thank you for taking the time to speak with our leadership group in New York on 27 February 2013. Your presentation was genuinely inspirational. This was clear from engagement in the room during the presentation and even more evident from the constructive and rewarding discussion our team had later in the day. Many of your observations – about personal and collective achievement – resonated with the team and will remain with us. Based on our experience, we would have no hesitation in recommending you to other firms with similar objectives.

- D.W.O., Board Member, Allianz Global Investors

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To say our firm and guests left his speech with renewed motivation, would be an understatement.

Our firm had the pleasure of having Don Mann present at an event on October 3rd, 2012. First the presentation itself was outstanding. Don is a captivating speaker not only because of his experiences, but also because of the passion he has for those experiences. Don emphasized pushing self boundaries, creating a “Combat mindset,” and sustaining a culture of teamwork, especially through obstacles. Although Don originally approached these from military life and ultra distance competition angles, he went on to transcend these frameworks and show why these messages are applicable to the business world and towards enriching our personal lives. Everyone in the audience found Don’s message to be inspiring. Second, apart from the presentation, working with Don was an absolute pleasure. Through all of Don’s accomplishments, he has remained modest with a humble disposition. I can’t think of anyone who would be easier to work with. To say our firm and guests left his speech with renewed motivation, would be an understatement. In fact, his presentation solicited responses emphasizing the importance of teamwork and preparedness in the business world. Ultimately Don is an engaging and inspiring man, who is easy to work with and knows how to reach out to an audience. I would unconditionally recommend Don for any event or presentation. And, I look forward to staying in touch with Don for many years to come. Thank you again, Don for speaking at our event and your service to our country.

- S.G., OTR

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Your presentation about the challenges/achievements will help our team tremendously this year.

Hey Don, Your presentation about the challenges/achievements will help our team tremendously this year. The “combat mindset” is something that is definitely applicable to our sport. After travel, lack of sleep and injuries start to set in there are many excuses that can be made. Having everyone hear about how strong the mind is will help us overcome those obstacles and make us a better team. Not to mention they were extremely intriguing stories! You have done and seen a lot of things that fascinated the entire team. Thanks for sharing some of them. Hope you enjoy your trip to Wisconsin and thanks again for joining our team these past few days!!

- K.B., NHL - Vancouver Canucks

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People were impressed, amazed, in awe and yes… a little skirmish as well.

Great Presentation Hi Don, I’ve just returned home and wanted to follow up and thank you for providing a great moment during the BPI President’s Club. People were impressed, amazed, in awe and yes… a little skirmish as well. Everyone was raving about your presentation and really enjoyed meeting. Thanks again for everything and I do hope our paths cross again.

- R.K.L., CEO / Creative, BPI Branded Experiences Inc.

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His life choices tell you what a person is capable of, and motivates you to go to the next level of performance with the appropriate mindset.

For our National Corporate Finance Sales Meeting we hired Don Mann as an inspirational speaker. He was very well received and captivated our audience with his Navy SEALS experiences. He was a pleasure to work with, and I would highly recommend him based on his ability to hold an audience, and connect with them. His life choices tell you what a person is capable of, and motivates you to go to the next level of performance with the appropriate mindset.

- P.W., Director of Events, Wells Fargo Capital Finance

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Your tales of setting extraordinary goals were inspiring and your examples of “ordinary” people who took on these great challenges were fascinating.

Dear Don Thank you for speaking at the 2013 Bank Trainers Conference in Orlando, FL. Our audience was excited to see you on the agenda, and they were clearly blown away by your presentation. I think we all felt like maybe we ought to put down the doughnut and go do an extra sit-up or two! Your tales of setting extraordinary goals were inspiring and your examples of “ordinary” people who took on these great challenges were fascinating. Also, the audience was clearly awed by your service to our country, and the service of the Navy SEALs you worked with and trained. It was a pleasure meeting you, and a treat to work with you. You were a true gentleman and went out of your way to interact with our attendees beyond the speech itself. We loved having you, and I hope to be able to have you featured at other conferences we produce. Maybe I ought to make that my Big Goal!

- V.M.V., CEO, Agility Resources Group

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What a gift you have and what an inspiration you are to me.

Mr. Mann I want to start by saying WOW What a gift you have and what an inspiration you are to me…thru all this grief I have struggled beyond what I could ever speak about… I will keep your words in my mind and heart and use them wisely to be inspired to accomplish my goals one at a time… to continue to Honor not only My Dear Nick and to Honor all Fallen and Their Loved Ones Left Behind. As a Guest Speaker. My Husband Alan and I were so Honored to have met you tonight and I am sure my Nicki made sure I met you for some kick of mental inspiration… (been feeling a little beaten down ) so Thank You!! May God Bless You And Keep You Safe, With Love and Friendship.

- .L., Proud Mom of CPO EOD Devgru Nicholas H. Null, Nicholas H. Null Memorial

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My fellow Officers and I thought that your presentation was incredible.

Incredible presentation Just wanted to say hello and let you know that my fellow Officers and I thought that your presentation was incredible. We spoke about it for the rest of the NJ Dare Officers Conference often and really appreciate everything that you shared with us. As I still operate on the street as a Patrol Officer it really added numerous tools to my toolbox. Again thank you for your time and your dedicated service to our Country. (PS) I was in the US Army from 1989-1994 as an enlisted combat aircrewman flying as a Aeroscout Co-pilot in OH-58 Kiowa’s with the 25th Infantry Division, 5th Squadron, 9th Cavalry in Hawaii. I frequently observed the Seals conducting training in and around Pearl Harbor and always knew they were our select group of highly trained experts in the field of Warfare and was glad that they were on my side. Thanks again.

- J.W.., Police Chief, NJ Dare Officers Conference

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He is a humble man with a big heart, a compassionate ear and speaks with integrity.

Our POTS event was a tremendous success in each of our objectives > POTS brand-awareness, a memorable experience by the attendees, and of course raising money for our wonderful “Community-kitchen” down in the Bronx. Don went well above what I had hoped for. He spent time with everyone signing books, assisting at the pistol range, and simply talking to all. To me, Don is much more than the “modern-day-warrior” that is portrayed in his great book. He is a humble man with a big heart, a compassionate ear and speaks with integrity. My kind of guy. Thanks again for connecting me to Don, and the great generosity of giving POTS the books for our event.

- P.B., Pots Director, Pots

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I couldn’t have asked for a better motivational experience for our staff.

Thank you so much for speaking to our employees this past Wednesday. I couldn’t have asked for a better motivational experience for our staff. You did a great job relating your experiences and challenges as both a Navy SEAL and extreme sports athlete to the challenges we see in business and everyday life. Your concept of setting micro goals to eventually accomplish the macro goal is brilliant. Breaking down an objective into little, more manageable parts is the way we all should live our professional and personal lives. The slide show was excellent too! It was great to see your points in action. I think Beach Ford is ready to take on 2016! Thank you so much Don for this special treat, and, most importantly, thank you for your continued service to our country.

- B.B., President, Beach Ford

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I am writing this letter of recommendation with praise and gratitude for Don Mann’s speaking participation in our team building day.

Don exuded professionalism from the moment we engaged his service. He asked questions, took care to understand our objective, and followed up to ensure we were satisfied with the outcome. Don’s talk was one of inspiration, confidence, and trust given to a team of professional lacrosse players and coaches who had just eaten lunch – not exactly the ideal time to engage an audience. Even so, Don held the audience awestruck, which you can see from the photos I’ve provided to the Hachette Speakers Bureau. Despite his extraordinary achievements, he is incredibly humble and sincere, which allows him to make that critical connection with a crowd. It is worth nothing that while I think Don’s heroic service to the country and adventure sports accomplishments are worthy of attention, our room was filled with high achievers who might normally take little notice of such deeds. The fact that he was swarmed with hand shakers and autograph requests tells me the talk was successful. Feedback since the team building day has been nothing but positive. Several of our athletes read Don’s book, Inside SEAL Team Six, within two days of his talk. In summary, I am an enthusiastic supporter of Don Mann and his public speaking service. I would be happy to meet with or discuss by phone our firsthand experience.

- D.T., President, Washington Stealth

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It was a pleasure to meet you and an honor to have you at our conference.

I wanted to let you know how much all of us at XRS appreciated your powerful keynote speech. The reaction from the audience to your remarks was apparent. From the standing ovation to the discussion it sparked during the remainder of the day, your presentation certainly exceeded our expectations. We also were very appreciative of the time you spent with our key customers and our partners during the reception. Most speakers will simple come in for the speech itself and are not available for customer interaction. This was one of many things that set you apart from other speakers. It was a pleasure to meet you and an honor to have you at our conference.

- J.C., Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, XRS

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Thank you for all you do for this country.

Hello Instructor Mann, I wanted to send along a big Hoo-Yah for providing your gift of motivational speaking to the Special Operations Academy recruits. Your gift of explaining your background in the teams and articulating your training philosophy had a great impact on our recruits of the SEAL Adventure Challenge and the Special Operations Academy. Your talk set the tone for our men which lasted throughout the training. Bonking and pushing past self-imposed mental limitations was often mentioned by the recruits when things got tough. It was inspiring to see. Those whom choose to improve any aspect of their life or military career are surely going to benefit greatly from listening, learning and implementing your lessons. Your reputation is well deserved Sir. Thank you for all you do for this country.

- D.S.M.E., Owner / CEO, SEAL Training Adventures

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Don’s conversation with the audience was truly inspirational as he encouraged everyone to reach beyond their self-imposed limitations.

Luckily for Cape Charles, Virginia, Don Mann is a member of our small community on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Lemon Tree Gallery and Studio was proud to present a “Conversation Café” with him. The gallery was full of town residents who were struck by the details and stories that Don shared about his awe inspiring, colorful and action-packed life. Don’s conversation with the audience was truly inspirational as he encouraged everyone to reach beyond their self-imposed limitations. Those attending left with a growing determination to aspire to greater achievements in their lives. Don is truly a gentleman and a scholar and we are very grateful for his message. All of us at Lemon Tree would highly recommend him as a motivational speaker.

- M.A., Staff, Lemon Tree

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He had a sold out auditorium and a standing ovation!

So proud of Don speaking at the Savannah Book Festival, which included James Patterson, Al Gore, David Baldacci, Gregg Allman and many more. He had a sold out auditorium and a standing ovation!

- D.T.., Savannah Book Festival

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He has an incredible message and a remarkable life story.

Thanks for inviting me to hear Don speak last night. He has an incredible message and a remarkable life story. On my way home I began to think about his many achievements, and the time he spent as an adventure racer. My good friend, Kevin Clune, who I just did the BC Bike Race with, also did a number of adventure races back in the 90s. I texted Kevin this morning to see if he had every crossed paths with Don and learned that they met at the X Games. Even with 6 billion people on the planet it turns out that the world is still a very small place! Thanks again.

- Phil D., OTR

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I cannot say enough good things about Don and his presentation and how effective it was.

Don Mann spoke to an auditorium full of DaimlerChrysler employees at corporate headquarters. One of the important attributes of an effective leader is to have the proper mindset and team attitude. I had been through several of Don’s SEAL Training Adventure and was extremely impressed at how quickly the notion of teamwork is instilled – you either coalesce as a team to succeed or you fail miserably and pay the price. It was a great microcosm of how the business world works and I remember thinking that if ten percent of the people at Chrysler could experience this event, the company would be unstoppable. With this in mind, I asked Don to address our group and he gave an incredibly inspiring presentation. I was a little concerned about the topic since the audience would be very diverse. I thought it might come across as a little strong coming this highly decorated former Navy SEAL. MY concerns were all for naught. I had never received so many positive comments after one of our presentations than I had from Don’s. I had women coming up to me after he finished stating that they wished Don had more time to talk. And quite honestly, I thought the women attending might provide negative feedback to my post-meeting survey. I believe Don’s presentation had the most impact of any speaker I had invited. People memorized parts of his presentation and other had posted some of his quotes on their office walls. A colleague of mine recently told me that he still had Don Mann sayings on his wall, “hell yes!” and he proceeded to read a few of them off, and this is six years after Don’s presentation). I cannot say enough good things about Don and his presentation and how effective it was. I think any group would greatly enjoy a presentation by Don and would benefit by hearing what he has to say. He certainly has the credentials and has lived the experiences to be able to convey his topic with much authority and credibility.

- E.D.M., Senior Manager Product Strategy, DAIMLERCHRYSLER

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I could not have been more proud.

I was so grateful to see Don speak at the Allied Construction Industries Annual Meeting at the Sharonville Convention Center. He spoke very eloquently in front of a thousand people. Several people told me he was the best keynote speaker they ever had. I could not have been more proud. What a fantastic job he did. – Karen T., ACI Mission accomplished!

- K.T.., MI Homes Employee, MI Homes

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His message was realistic and uplifting.

This June Northampton High School invited Don Mann to speak at our graduation. Northampton High School is a small community school in a very poverty stricken area. We graduated 111 seniors. Mr. Mann graciously agreed to speak to our students. His message was realistic and uplifting. Our students often feel that they have limited to no options in their lives. Don Mann gave a short background into his past, his limited options, and how he built micro and macro goals to build opportunities in his life. Listening to such an accomplished man in so many areas of life, gave our students the hope that by making their own goals and working hard they too can reach for their dreams. Northampton High cannot thank Don Mann enough for agreeing to speak to our students.

- H.M. Assistant Principal Northampton High School

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Thank you for the fascinating, timely and emotional presentation yesterday at Synergi; I was deeply moved by the stories and inspired to identify and achieve macro goals with a focus on the micro goals needed to get there: one foot, one stroke, one paddle.  

As a student of history, with a degree concentrated in pre-Revolutionary America, but a passion for the awe-inspiring magnitude of the Second World War, I have the deepest respect and reverence for those who served and serve today.  I was once asked why I am so consumed with this part of our history, and despite my fascination with geopolitics, logistics, good versus evil, what it comes down to is: how would I have faced the impossible odds that these brave men (and now, women), faced and continue to face today.  I think you gave me some perspective on that yesterday. So, again, thank you...

One final comment: I'm very active in youth sports, and I continually tell my athletes that drive and working harder than the next guy can overcome any talent gaps that they think they have.  I'll relay some of the stories you've shared with us -- I'm sure it will resonate, especially the racing bike 'HA'

- Jared, Synergi

SEALKIDS, an organization that is very close to Don's heart, supports the children of Naval Special Warfare—everyday kids living in extraordinary circumstances. This encompassing approach of academic testing, tutoring, therapy, advocacy, and enrichment fosters the success and well-being of the child, critically reducing family stresses and ultimately keeping today’s Navy SEAL in the fight.

Don as a father and former SEAL TEAM SIX Member can attest that every dollar counts! Your donation of any size helps make an immediate and positive impact on the life of a child in the Naval Special Warfare Community. Learn more here.


Project Lifesaver is a 501 (C)(3) community based, public safety, non-profit organization that provides law enforcement, fire/rescue, and caregivers with a program designed to protect, and when necessary, quickly locate individuals with cognitive disorders who are prone to the life threatening behavior of wandering. The organization was founded in 1999 in Chesapeake, Virginia. The necessity of this program was determined through the correlation between cognitive conditions and the act of wandering. With the dramatic increase of cognitive conditions since the inception of the organization, the program has grown from a localized program to a program recognized internationally as a proven and effective method of “bringing loved ones home.” Don Mann is proud to be an ambassador for Project Lifesaver. Learn more here.