David Woods Bartley
The Life Preservation Speaker
About David Woods Bartley
Behind declining morale, persistent burnout, and growing disconnection, people are often carrying pain that others cannot see. Too many struggle in silence, afraid of judgment, uncertain where to turn, or convinced that no one will understand. Meanwhile, leaders, colleagues, educators, and caregivers may recognize that someone is suffering but feel unprepared to reach them. Awareness alone is not enough. People need practical ways to break through isolation, build genuine human connection, and make hope possible—even in the most difficult moments. This is the gap David Woods Bartley has dedicated his life to closing. His mission is to equip those who are suffering—and those who want to help—with the understanding, confidence, and practical tools to create connection, experience hope, and move toward the healing every person deserves. A globally recognized mental health advocate, three-time TEDx speaker, and award-winning voice in the field, David draws from his lived experience with severe childhood trauma, debilitating depression, and a near-fatal suicide attempt to illuminate a new path, one grounded in the healing power of human connection. Known for his compelling authenticity and transformative storytelling, David has delivered more than 1,000 presentations worldwide. His audiences have included NASA, NATO, every branch of the U.S. military, the FDA, the VA, K–12 schools, major universities, healthcare systems, and international corporations. David challenges audiences to rethink mental illness, deepen human connection, and recognize the profound difference each of us can make. His work offers practical, innovative ways to create hope on demand, strengthen individual and collective resilience, and practice compassionate, effective leadership in today’s world.
Industries
Speaking Reel
My 3-Min "Sizzle" Reel
Speaking Topics
Organizer Testimonials
3""David’s presentations to our NASA workforce were timely, and the 100% positive feedback from more than 300 attendees was phenomenal. The perspective that David has is unlike many other professional speakers, as his experiences, thought processes, and resiliency are personal and first-hand. His ability to take an extremely sensitive and uncomfortable topic, frame it in a way that speaks to others who may be feeling the same, and turn the conversation into one of hope and optimism is remarkable. I would personally recommend him as a speaker to any organization with a workforce that would benefit from a frank and meaningful discussion about the importance of mental/emotional health and suicide awareness/prevention. Janine Scoville Program Manager, Employee Wellness and Occupational Health, NASA, Kennedy Space Center "
""David’s passion for inspiring leaders to connect was first-class. He has the ability to take very intense life situations and translate those concepts into leadership skills. The executive leadership team found our workshop very moving and encouraging. They have also started implementing some of the lessons learned. We look forward to having David back again with other leaders in our organization. Stephanie Carroll Chief People Officer at AbleTo "
""If you have an opportunity to schedule David Woods Bartley to speak to your employees about mental health as part of your wellness efforts, I put my name and reputation on the line that you will not be disappointed. Your employees will tell you that it was a powerful talk and that they are walking away with a better understanding of mental wellness. I will not give away David's story, because it is his to tell, but trust me when I tell you that David knows a thing or two about mental health because he's lived it firsthand - he's been to “mental hellness.” Scott Olsen Director, Human Resources Bosch USA "
Peer Endorsements
Book this speaker
Invite David to your event
Interested in having David speak at your conference, meetup, or corporate event? Send a direct inquiry. No account needed.