Michael Hingson

#1 New York Times Best-selling Author | Renowned Keynote Speaker | 9/11 Survivor | Expert in Leadership, Teamwork, and Personal Empowerment
BIO

Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author and international lecturer. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.

Hingson gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children’s Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. Hingson is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association’s 2012 Hero Dog Awards.

In countless TV and radio appearances, feature articles, and speaking engagements, Hingson does much more than simply tell his own 9-11 story; he continuously explores the broader lessons of his life and experiences inspiring and motivating audiences.

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Signature Topics

Trust & Teamwork            

Human-Animal Bond          

Inclusion vs. Diversity

Strategies for the Future        

Adapting in Challenging Times

TESTIMONIALS

I am writing to offer my enthusiastic recommendation for Michael Hingson as a speaker and thought leader. Michael recently delivered a general session address at our Luminate convention, where he captivated our audience with his compelling narrative on building trust and teamwork. His personal experience as a blind man working alongside his guide dog is both inspiring and insightful, offering valuable lessons applicable to any team or organization.

Michael's ability to connect with his audience is remarkable. His storytelling is not only engaging but also deeply thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who hears him speak. Michael's approach to trust and teamwork, drawn from his own life experiences, is authentic and relatable, making his message resonate with diverse audiences. Upon delivering his presentation, Michael’s session lasted another 15 to 20 minutes as a crowd of people gathered to purchase an autographed copy of his book to take back to their teams for training and in-depth discussion.

In addition to his impressive speaking skills, Michael's professionalism and genuine kindness set him apart. He was a pleasure to work with, responding promptly throughout the booking process so that we could get all the logistics of his presentation squared away.

Abby Trauth, Director of Partnerships and Education, Luminate

If you are looking for a speaker who can hold your audience’s attention with personal stories and life lessons that are at once fascinating, entertaining, captivating and motivating, then we recommend you look no further than Michael Hingson.  

Michael’s story of descending 77 floors in the World Trade Center on 9/11 with his guide dog and living to tell about it is, in itself, a powerful lesson about courage, teamwork and human (and animal) nature. But what Michael has to share with you is so much more than the story of one day.  

You will be inspired and impacted by his experiences growing up blind and learning to navigate the world, all the while maintaining a positive attitude despite challenges that many others might think insurmountable. Whether we face blindness or anything else that might be considered a “handicap”, Michael’s stories will demonstrate that the only true impediment to success is the limitations we or others believe we have.  

Michael is not only a wonderful speaker for all audience demographics, he is a delight to work with. We thoroughly enjoyed having him at Joliet Junior College and highly recommend him for your organization.

Ed Vasil, Environmental, Health and Safety Manager, Joliet Junior College

Speaker Highlights
BOOKS

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