Keynote Speaking

Chris Herndon is a combat veteran, former Denver City Council President, and founder of the Herndon Leadership Institute.

Every role he’s taken on—from leading troops overseas to shaping policy back home—has been rooted in one mission: helping people rise to their potential. Chris now brings his message of servant leadership and radical personal responsibility to stages across the country. Whether he’s speaking to executives, emerging leaders, or frontline teams, his keynote inspires people to see clearly, serve boldly, and solve courageously. Drawing from his experiences at West Point, in public office, and in the trenches of real-world leadership, Chris equips audiences with tools to navigate change, build deeper connections, and drive meaningful impact in their work and communities.

  • “Engaging, exciting, challenging, yet so much fun. 10/10, 5 stars, and two thumbs up – a wonderful team building component filled with enjoyment and unmatched facilitation quality.”
    — Kate Barton, Chief of External Affairs + Managing Director | Downtown Denver Partnership

  • “Chris spoke at an event for first generation college students, embarking on their next journey as the first in their families to continue their education after high school. Everyone in the room left inspired, encouraged, and moved both by Chris’ background and story, as well as his advice for the students. We invited Chris back each year…”
    — Cori Deterding, VP Community Giving and Engagement | Mile High United Way

  • “I recently had the privilege of hearing Chris Herndon speak, and I can honestly say it was one of the best talks I’ve ever experienced. His message about serving our community, truly connecting with people, and looking beyond what we think we see or know was incredibly powerful.

    Chris has a rare ability to inspire while making you reflect on your own role in building a stronger, more compassionate community. His stories were engaging, his passion was contagious, and his insights were both thought-provoking and actionable. WOW!”

    — Kyle Chism, CEO | Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce

  • “Chris is everything you could hope for in a leader—compassionate, committed, and always putting people and community first. As a former elected official and an exceptional keynote speaker, coach, and mentor, he brought humor, passion, and authenticity to every session of Impact Denver. Year after year, he left our participants not only inspired but equipped with tangible steps to get involved—whether running for office, volunteering, or finding their own path to civic leadership. Chris went above and beyond, offering his support to anyone ready to take that next step. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a dynamic voice to inspire action and lead with heart.”

    — Jenna Diaz-Gonzalez, Program Director | Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation

Top reasons to hire Chris

1. Real Leadership. Real Life.

Chris brings decades of leadership experience—from Army combat missions to City Council chambers to C-suite boardrooms. He’s not speaking from theory—he’s lived it. Your audience gets authentic stories, powerful insights, and zero fluff.

2. Inspires Action That Lasts

Chris doesn’t just motivate in the moment—he sparks long-term change. Attendees leave with clarity, conviction, and the confidence to lead differently the very next day… and long after the applause fades.

3. Connection Over Perfection

Whether he's sharing battlefield lessons or city hall stories, Chris blends vulnerability, humor, and heart. He’ll challenge your people, but they’ll feel seen and supported while they grow.

4. Trusted by Leaders Who Lead

Chris is the speaker leaders turn to when they want substance, not sizzle. If you're serious about developing bold, resilient, people-first leadership—he's your guy.