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Crisis leadership & decision strategist

David Atkins

Turn pressure into decisive action with David Atkins, crisis leadership expert and decision-making strategist. David equips organizations with high-stakes decision frameworks and resilience tools, leveraging his experience as a decorated police captain and seven-figure business builder. New York State Trooper of the Year who presents to audiences of 20,000+ at venues including the NFL Super Dome.

Trusted by New York Life, ADP, Whelen Engineering, Acentria, Massachusetts Staffing Association

David Atkins, Speaker | Crisis Leadership Expert
David Atkins

David Atkins

New York City, United States

Typical fee range

$26k–50k

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

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Book David

New York City, United States

Starting from

$26k–50k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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David Atkins's biography

At a glance

  • Retired New York State Police Captain and Ground Zero responder
  • Creator of the One Decision Away Framework for crisis leadership
  • Bestselling author, podcast host and million-dollar entrepreneur
David Atkins is a retired New York State Police Captain, Ground Zero first responder, and author who equips leaders to make decisive moves under pressure. Drawing on two decades in law enforcement and entrepreneurial success, he translates high stakes experience into practical leadership tools. David served 22 years with the New York State Police, retiring as Captain, responsible for all operations in Westchester County, a jurisdiction handling more than 400,000 emergency calls annually. He led over 100 officers and supervisors through critical incidents and was honored as New York State Trooper of the Year in 2003 and Investigator of the Year in 2007. Alongside his law enforcement career, David built a seven figure direct sales business with Beachbody, leading a team of more than 1,400 entrepreneurs. He is the author of The One Decision Away Philosophy and The Leveled-Up Life, and hosts the Personal Perseverance Project Podcast, where he shares practical lessons on resilience and leadership. David's experience commanding operations during life-or-death situations and scaling a million-dollar business gives him unique insight into performance under pressure. He translates 22 years of crisis leadership and entrepreneurial success into practical tools that work across industries. His One Decision Away Framework teaches organizations to assess opportunities, address obstacles, and take action, creating clarity when teams face uncertainty and building momentum that outlasts the initial motivation. Audiences ranging from Fortune 100 companies to SHRM conferences and first responder organizations gain a shared language for accountability and execution. His approach resonates with leaders navigating uncertainty, growth, and high pressure environments, providing clear tools that can be applied immediately to culture, sales, and performance. David delivers more than inspiration, backed by 2,800 audience reviews. He provides frameworks teams implement immediately to move from potential to performance.

David's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

One Decision Away: From Potential To Performance
In today's fast-paced environment, teams often struggle not due to a lack of talent, but from feeling overwhelmed and hesitant. David Atkins, a former New York State Police Captain and bestselling author, emphasizes that transformation starts with one courageous decision. In his keynote, he presents the One Decision Away Framework, a three-step system designed to help leaders and teams overcome obstacles and execute confidently. Attendees will gain clarity, resilience, and actionable tools to enhance leadership, sales, and performance under pressure.

Why we recommend booking David

Book David Atkins to empower your team with proven leadership strategies forged in crisis and entrepreneurial success, offering practical tools your organization can use right away. Secure him as your next speaker to help your group turn pressure into performance and drive real results.

Check David's availability

Trusted by New York Life, ADP, Whelen Engineering, Acentria, Massachusetts Staffing Association

Testimonials

David’s One Decision Away keynote ranks among the best I have heard in my 35+ years at NYL. Authentic, high energy, and deeply relatable, his message left a lasting impact on our team.

John DiRago

VP, New York Life

Absolutely incredible! So motivational, and every lesson is something you can apply to your life.

Laci Buzzelli

Senior VP, ADP

David not only did not disappoint but he absolutely crushed it. While bringing his very moving true-life experiences into his presentation, his message of taking ownership of yourself and looking within yourself, while not looking for reasons you can't succeed, definitely resonated with all of us! It was exactly what we all needed to be reminded of and hear as we head into another record-breaking sales year!

Gregory Scott

VP of Sales, Whelen Engineering

Featured Projects

David Atkins - One Decision Away book cover
David Atkins - The Leveled up life book cover
David Atkins - The Personal Perseverance Project podcast cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book David Atkins for my next event?
Email david.atkins@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm David's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is David Atkins's speaking style like?
David Atkins structures his keynote around the One Decision Away Framework, a three-step system built on his 22 years in law enforcement and entrepreneurial experience. The framework guides audiences through assessing opportunities, addressing obstacles, and taking action, giving teams a shared language for accountability and execution under pressure.

What topics does David Atkins specialise in?
David Atkins speaks on decision-making under pressure, crisis leadership, and performance in high-stakes environments, with his One Decision Away Framework applied across leadership, sales, and organisational culture. He retired as a New York State Police Captain after 22 years, commanded operations across Westchester County handling over 400,000 emergency calls annually, and was named New York State Trooper of the Year in 2003 and Investigator of the Year in 2007.

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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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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

Can I book a speaker who isn't listed on the PepTalk website?

Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

How quickly will I get a speaker shortlist?

You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a booking?

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

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.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

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.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

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.

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

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.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

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.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

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.