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Prison governor & resilience speaker

John Lonergan

Transform leadership and workplace wellbeing with John Lonergan, speaker on social justice and resilience. John works with organisations to foster compassionate leadership and mental health awareness, drawing from four decades of prison service experience including 22 years governing Mountjoy Prison.

Trusted by Mountjoy Prison

John Lonergan, Speaker | Leadership & Resilience Expert
John Lonergan

John Lonergan

Dublin, Ireland

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

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

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Dublin, Ireland

Starting from

£2k–5k

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John Lonergan's biography

At a glance

  • Former Governor of Mountjoy Prison
  • Bestselling author of The Governor
  • Renowned commentator on leadership and social justice
John Lonergan is a former Governor of Dublin's Mountjoy Prison, widely respected for his insights into leadership, mental health, social justice and human resilience. Drawing on over four decades in the Irish Prison Service, John offers a rare and thought-provoking perspective on leading with integrity, fostering wellbeing, and understanding the deeper social issues affecting individuals and communities. John grew up in Bansha, Co. Tipperary and joined the Irish Prison Service as a young man. Rising through the ranks, he went on to govern Mountjoy Prison, Ireland’s largest prison, for more than twenty-two years, and later served as Governor of the high-security Portlaoise Prison. Throughout his career, John witnessed first-hand the many social and personal factors that lead people into difficulty, shaping his lifelong belief in the power of compassion, education and opportunity to change lives. Since retiring in 2010, John has continued to contribute to public life through writing, speaking, and community engagement. His autobiography, The Governor, offers a compelling account of his experiences and insights, while his second book, Parenting: Raising Your Child in Ireland Today, focuses on practical, empathetic approaches to raising resilient children. All royalties are donated to Barnardos. Today, John shares his expertise across a wide range of audiences, from corporate groups to teachers, parents and community organisations. His talks are known for their authenticity, practical wisdom and deep humanity, offering guidance on leadership, mental health, resilience and the vital importance of connection.

John's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Positive Mental Health: Nurturing Happiness and Contentment
John Lonergan offers a practical approach to achieving happiness and inner peace. Focusing on daily actions and choices, he discusses the importance of gratitude, self-forgiveness, kindness, meaningful connections and the power of simple habits. With a calm and reflective style, John highlights how personal responsibility and small, consistent decisions can lead to a more fulfilled life.
Leadership and Motivation: How to Get the Best Out of Others
John Lonergan draws on decades of leadership experience to reveal what truly motivates and inspires people. He explores the importance of authenticity, respect, consultation and consistency, and explains why personal example is the most powerful tool a leader has. John’s thoughtful, relatable approach helps leaders build teams rooted in trust, fairness and shared purpose.
Parenting
John Lonergan explores the real-life challenges parents face in today's complex world. Drawing on his deep experience, he covers communication, the value of listening, parenting by example and nurturing self-confidence. John shares practical strategies for building open, trusting relationships with children of all ages, helping parents foster resilience, acceptance and emotional wellbeing at home.
Wellbeing and Resilience for Students
Speaking directly to students, John Lonergan offers guidance on building personal resilience and maintaining mental wellbeing. He discusses the value of self-care, gratitude, forgiveness and nurturing positive relationships. With warmth and clarity, John helps young people understand how everyday choices and attitudes can strengthen their ability to face challenges and thrive.
Nurturing Impact for Teachers
John Lonergan addresses the complex realities of teaching, highlighting the powerful and lasting impact great teachers can have. He examines strategies for managing challenging behaviour, fostering connection over correction, and maintaining personal wellbeing. Through a compassionate lens, John shows why self-care is essential for teachers who want to make a meaningful difference.

Why we recommend booking John

Unlock transformative insights with John Lonergan, former Governor of Mountjoy Prison and acclaimed author. His expertise in leadership, mental health, and parenting equips teams to address today’s challenges. Book now to inspire change and foster resilience in your organisation.

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Trusted by Mountjoy Prison

Featured Projects

John Lonergan - The Governor: The Life And Times Of The Man Who Ran Mountjoy book cover
John Lonergan - Parenting: Raising Your Child In Ireland Today book cover

frequently asked questions

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How do I book John Lonergan for my next event?

What is John Lonergan's speaking style like?

John Lonergan structures his talks around case-based reflection, drawing on over four decades in the Irish Prison Service to ground observations on leadership, wellbeing and human behaviour in direct professional experience. He pairs this with a framework of practical, repeatable actions — such as daily habits, personal example and consistent communication — giving audiences concrete steps rather than abstract principles.

What topics does John Lonergan specialise in?

John Lonergan speaks on mental health and happiness, leadership and motivation, and parenting and family resilience. He served as Governor of Mountjoy Prison for over twenty-two years, an experience that underpins his perspective on leadership, social justice and human behaviour, and is the author of the autobiography The Governor.

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

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