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Crisis leadership & resilience expert

Dave Sanderson

Transform crisis leadership with Dave Sanderson, speaker and "Miracle on the Hudson" survivor. Dave empowers organizations to develop resilience and decisive leadership, delivering award-winning insights as an Inc.com Top 100 Leadership Speaker who raised $14.8M for the American Red Cross.

Trusted by Atlanta Association of Health Underwriters, American Red Cross Los Angeles, Florida AHRMM

Dave Sanderson, Speaker | Pilot & Leadership
Dave Sanderson

Dave Sanderson

Charlotte, United States

Typical fee range

$11k–25k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Charlotte, United States

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$11k–25k

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Dave Sanderson's biography

At a glance

  • Survivor of US Airways Flight 1549 Miracle on the Hudson
  • Nationally sought-after leadership speaker
  • Raised over $14.8 million for the American Red Cross
Dave Sanderson is an inspiring survivor, author, and nationally sought-after leadership speaker. In 2009, when US Airways Flight 1549, also known as "The Miracle on the Hudson," made an emergency landing in the Hudson River, Dave knew he was exactly where he needed to be. As the last passenger to evacuate the plane, Dave took on the responsibility of ensuring the wellbeing and safety of others, even at the risk of his own life. Witnessing the profound impact of his actions, Dave now travels across the globe, sharing his incredible story and delivering motivational leadership messages. His goal is to empower individuals to make a positive difference in their professional and personal lives. Over the past decade, Dave has traveled extensively, spreading his inspiring leadership lessons. Through his talks, he has raised over $14.8 million USD for the American Red Cross. As a testament to his expertise, he has been recognized as one of Inc.com's Top 100 Leadership Speakers. Most recently, Dave's coverage of the 15th Anniversary of the “Miracle on the Hudson” was honored with a Silver Telly Award, a recognition of the powerful message and inspiration he continues to share. If you are searching for a captivating story to truly inspire your team or transform your leadership style for the better, look no further than Dave Sanderson. Learn from his experience and let him guide you towards becoming a more effective leader.

Dave's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Jolt: How To Bounce Back Even Stronger!
Dave Sanderson, a survivor of US Airways Flight 1549, shares insights on overcoming trauma and fostering personal growth. He emphasizes that everyone faces traumatic events, whether accidents, job losses, or personal losses. While such experiences can be debilitating, they can also lead to significant growth through a mindset known as Post Traumatic Growth Syndrome. In this session, attendees will learn three effective strategies to transform adversity into opportunities for personal development.
Your Distinct Advantage
In his highly acclaimed keynote, Dave guides C-Suite, management teams and conferences attendees through his nine personal leadership lessons to help them discover their DISTINCT ADVANTAGE. Using his signature pittche program, that Point in Time That Changes Everything, Leaders and attendees will learn key information and inspiration for: Employing personal leadership to give certainty and confidence to those who may have uncertainty Illustrating the key lessons top executives and founders use to manage their state Increasing their productivity, and demonstrating global leadership
Moments Matter
In his compelling presentation, Dave Sanderson shares the invaluable lessons and strategies that shaped his decisions after the US Airways Flight 1549 crash, known as “The Miracle on the Hudson.” Drawing from his experience, Dave highlights key moments that prepared him for this life-altering event. Attendees will gain practical strategies on resiliency, leadership, and state management, empowering them to navigate their own challenges and emerge stronger.
100 Days To Triumph
In "100 Days To Triumph," Dave shares his proven strategy for achieving significant goals in a hundred days. Drawing from his own experience surviving the Miracle on the Hudson, he went from not swimming for over forty years to crossing the Hudson River with Navy SEALs. Attendees will learn to simplify, clarify, and progress toward their most important objectives. Dave condenses decades of learning into actionable techniques, applicable to weight loss, fitness, career, relationships, and overall fulfillment. Discover how to view change as growth, and master the art of achieving any goal within a hundred days.
Brace For Impact
Emerging from the wreckage fo Flight 1549, Dave Sanderson's mission became clear: to inspire others to act with compassion and courage. Through his captivating presentation, Dave shares the harrowing tale, highlighting the resilience and teamwork that enabled their miraculous survival. Drawing on lessons of leadership and state management, he demonstrates how overcoming obstacles is possible with the right mindset and collective effort.

Why we recommend booking Dave

Dave Sanderson offers your team the unique opportunity to learn from a real-life hero. His compelling story and leadership insights will inspire resilience, encourage proactive problem-solving, and foster a culture of teamwork and accountability, transforming your business approach and enhancing overall team performance.

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Trusted by Atlanta Association of Health Underwriters, American Red Cross Los Angeles, Florida AHRMM

Featured Projects

Dave Sanderson - Brace For Impact book cover
Dave Sanderson - Moments Matter book cover
Dave Sanderson - From Turmoil To Triumph book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Dave Sanderson for my next event?

What is Dave Sanderson's speaking style like?

Dave Sanderson structures his keynotes around his first-hand account of surviving the US Airways Flight 1549 emergency landing, using this central narrative to deliver nine personal leadership lessons through his signature PITTCHE framework (Point in Time That Changes Everything), translating the sequence of decisions made during and after the incident into transferable strategies on resilience, state management, and Post Traumatic Growth.

What topics does Dave Sanderson specialise in?

Dave Sanderson speaks on post-traumatic growth, personal leadership, and resilience and state management in the face of adversity. He is a survivor of US Airways Flight 1549 ("Miracle on the Hudson") and has raised over $14.8 million for the American Red Cross through his speaking work, while being recognised as one of Inc.com's Top 100 Leadership Speakers.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

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Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

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Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

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Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.