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Audiences leave Craig’s events inspired and aware of previously unrecognized leadership possibilities for succeeding at work and in life and, more importantly, with a plan for moving these possibilities into reality.

Feedback from Audiences
"Amazing speaker. Made so many great points that really hit home. Would love to hear him speak again."
I could listen to his stories for hours…"
"Light at the End of the Tunnel' was one of the most inspiring stories I’ve ever heard."
“This presenter is terrific. I may become a groupie!”
“The three people I most enjoy listening to and learning from: Tony Robbins, Stephen Covey, and Craig Whelden.”
"All I can say is WOW."
"A+++!"
Topics & Presentations

"Inspirational Leadership in Challenging Times”
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"Inspirational Leadership in Challenging Times”
Craig spent more than 40 years in and around the military with 17 of those years as an Army General Officer or Marine Corps Senior Executive. Along the way, he picked up dozens of lessons on leadership and life—both good and bad. Hear him convey these in a compelling, inspirational, and sometimes very personal way.

“Implications of a Rising China”
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“Implications of a Rising China”
With more than a dozen years in the Pacific as a senior leader, Craig had a front row seat to China’s bullying of its neighbors. This presentation explores what is happening: geopolitically, militarily, and economically as China expands its sphere of influence. Learn about the strategic importance of the Malacca Strait, the South China Sea, the exploding growth of China's military, and their encroachment on the "second island chain" --- where the U.S. begins its day: in Guam.

“9/11: A Personal Account”
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“9/11: A Personal Account”
Present at the Pentagon on 9/11, Craig spent the next two days helping first responders at the crash site. Returning to Hawaii three days later, he led the initiative to secure the state, an effort that received national recognition. Hear his insights into the challenges of responding to a disaster of this scale and learn more about the intended targets in Washington D.C. and the breakdown in intelligence that led to the attack.

“West Point Trivia”
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“West Point Trivia”
Many famous (and a few infamous) cadets attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. Listen to Craig reflect on some of the “lesser-known facts” about these military luminaries, stretching back to the Civil War. Interesting, educational, and fun – even if you’re not a military buff – you’ll not regret hearing this presentation. Guaranteed!

“Evolution of the U.S. Military from Vietnam to Today"
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“Evolution of the U.S. Military from Vietnam to Today"
Craig was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1973, two years prior to the official end of the Vietnam War. His near-continuous association with the military from then until 2019 touched every service: Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Navy. Hear his reflections on that roller-coaster journey, and how the Services differ culturally.
Other Topics
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Other Topics
Craig spent decades learning, and passing on lessons on leadership and life to others. With 30 years in an Army uniform and another nine as a member of the Senior Executive Service with the U.S. Marine Corps, his experiences are diverse and span the globe: 17 years in Europe and another dozen in the Pacific. Let him know what topic you’d like to address and he can probably scratch your itch!
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Success Stories
General Whelden’s knowledge and his experiences have given the fire service a very balanced approach to leadership. Craig’s book has now been incorporated into our curriculum, and we are honored to have his insights into the development of our current and next generation of leaders.
Captain Craig Poulson
Los Angeles Fire Department Leadership Academy
Craig Whelden's lessons weaving together life, work, leadership and interpersonal habits were just what our Carson family needed to hear going into 2020—a year that has tested us in life and business in new and unexpected ways. General Whelden challenged us to combine both positive and negative experiences in order to improve our ability to lead, and he gave us takeaways to inspire the people around us with candor and authenticity.
Ron Carson
CEO and Founder, Carson Group
I felt like my team would be inspired and energized by Craig and I was not wrong! Craig shared insights – learned over many years – that align with our core values and his presentation had a great impact. I highly recommend him as speaker, author, and a subject matter expert on leadership. Thank you Craig for helping to impact the leadership acumen of my team!
Barry Wren
Group VP, Area Leader for Low Country, Suntrust Bank
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