chris rodell
Meet America’s Most Swashbuckling Storyteller
Chris Rodell blends heart, humor, and humanity into unforgettable keynotes that make audiences laugh, reflect — and feel more alive.
The Man, The Myth, The Legend
Author of Use All the Crayons! — a cult-favorite book that’s part inspiration, part instruction manual for joyful living
20+ years of storytelling on stages across America
Former journalist with features in Esquire, Men’s Health, Reader’s Digest, and The Washington Post
Speaks from real-life resilience — including living with Parkinson’s
See Chris in Action
This Isn’t Just Speaking — It’s an Experience.
In this video, you’ll see why Chris Rodell leaves audiences laughing, thinking, and genuinely moved. His delivery blends humor, humanity, and unforgettable storytelling that connects with every crowd.
The Speaker Who Reminds Us How to Feel
Chris Rodell isn’t just another motivational speaker — he’s a truth-teller with a sense of humor and a whole lot of heart. He connects with every audience by being unflinchingly honest, disarmingly funny, and deeply human. Attendees walk away feeling lighter, braver, and more alive — like someone reminded them what life’s really about.
Signature Talks
Use All the
Crayons!
A joy-fueled, laughter-laced keynote that encourages bold living, daily kindness, and a full-spectrum embrace of life.
The Art of Living Suddenly
Part storytelling, part soul-jolt — Chris shares how a Parkinson’s diagnosis became his catalyst to live more fully, love more loudly, and laugh like it matters.
Custom Talks Available
Chris tailors every keynote to your audience — whether they’re leaders, caregivers, educators, or skeptics who think they’ve heard it all.
Acclaimed Author & Storyteller
From the Page to the Podium — His Words Move People
Chris Rodell is the author of six books, including the critically praised The Last Baby Boomer and the heartfelt Chris Rodell: Voluntary Idiot. His work has been featured in national publications and he’s collaborated with golf legend Arnold Palmer on a bestselling biography. Whether through essays, memoirs, or heartfelt humor, Chris brings the same energy to the page as he does to the stage—blending wit, warmth, and truth in unforgettable ways.
Speaker.
Bold. Engaging. Unforgettable.
Chris captivates audiences with a mix of humor and heart, turning every keynote into a rollercoaster of laughter, insight, and inspiration. He brings energy that lights up the room and leaves people talking.
Storyteller.
The Extraordinary in the Everyday.
With a gift for uncovering the magic in ordinary moments, Chris transforms personal stories into powerful, unforgettable narratives. His ability to connect through authenticity and wit makes him not just a speaker—but a storyteller people remember for life.
Proudly Local to Latrobe, Pennsylvania
Connecting with Pittsburgh—and Beyond—with Heart & Humor
Chris Rodell brings small-town warmth with big-stage presence. Based in Latrobe, PA—just outside Pittsburgh—Chris is a hometown favorite for organizations throughout Western Pennsylvania. From corporate events in the city to community gatherings in the Laurel Highlands, he delivers talks that resonate deeply with local values, humor, and heart.
TESTIMONIALS
What others are saying
“Chris is one of the very best. He’s funny and always asks great questions.”
— Arnold Palmer
”Chris was so funny he cured my hangover!”
— Restauranteur Kevin Joyce
“There is no writer in America with more compelling and uproarious stories than Chris Rodell”
— Michael Burns, Sirius Satellite Radio
“Chris writes about people the way Sinatra sings about Manhattan. Unflinching about the gritty realities, but with abiding affection and relentless positivity about the future.”
— Pennsylvania Gov, Tom Ridge
“Every convention needs that one crowd-pleasing speaker who'll get everybody laughing and feeling happy to be there. That’s Chris.”
— Karl Repon of the PA Librarians Association
“This book (Use All the Crayons!) is not exactly about crayons, nor is it about coloring in any tangible way. It's about living with gusto and enjoying every minute. It's about BEING HAPPY! Reading it makes me happy. It's one of my most precious purchases. I bought the book, and I have been laughing ever since. You'll love it too. It will make you happy.”
- Sharon Lippincott, Chilehead Adventurer
READY TO GIVE US A TRY?
Get Started Today!
Chris’s schedule is filling fast — and once audiences see him, they don’t forget him.
If you’re looking for a speaker who brings humor, hope, and heartfelt impact, let’s talk.
