Cynthia Ackrill, MD, president of WellSpark

I bring a unique background to addressing leadership, building brainpower, and addressing stress. I have a true passion for helping humans learn to reach their full potential in the ways that science, wisdom, and common sense show us that humans work! And I firmly believe the brain learns best through humor and play as well as hard-hitting direct challenge. I approach learning from the brain perspective, but know that it is the heart that motivates us to have authentic lives that are effective. My approach has been described as refreshing, enlightened, inspiring, and fun.

I deliver keynotes and run workshops (several hours to multiple days), and often include a followup teleconference/webinar to provide the accountability to make information transformational, instead of just another good set of notes that needs dusting! We learn by repeated attention to our intention- that is why accountability must be built in to assure change. And we must want to change- not just have it forced on us. I have even spoken to event and meeting planners about creating brain-friendly events that have a greater impact- I love this work!

I am a graduate of Duke University, the University of Maryland School of Medicine, a certified Wellcoach, Wellpeople coach, executive coach. I am a member of the National Speakers Association, active on the chapter board, and a fellow and board member of the American Institute of Stress, currently working on a workplace stress management model. (Clearly our world needs a better handle on this!) I have spoken and coached in multiple industries, taught in leadership development programs for Kent State University, Center for Transformation and Innovation, the Federal Government, and the Healthcare Coaching Institute. I have also been cited in multiple publications, am an advisor for Meridian Practice Management, and have appeared on Katie Couric's web show.

I am not a canned speaker. I work with clients to find out what their specific needs are and customize my work. I recently adapted a keynote to the Superhero theme to blend with the client's conference- I love creative challenges! And as a coach, I truly enjoy the process of helping clients figure out what would deliver the biggest bang. Please do not hesitate to contact me to ask. Thank you!