Daniel McDonald is a leadership and executive development speaker with 29 years of policing experience, specializing in decision-making under pressure, building trust, and leading teams through complex challenges. Having presented at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the National Sheriffs Association (NSA), Daniel translates real-world high-stakes experience into actionable strategies for corporate leaders, association executives, and municipal organizations.
Be the first to review Daniel McDonald
Write a reviewPrice range: $7,500 – $10,000 per event
Languages: English
Gig length: 30 - 240 minutes
Planners book Daniel to help teams:
Strengthen leadership skills and executive decision-making
Build trust, credibility, and influence across organizations
Improve team performance and drive organizational change
Navigate high-pressure and rapidly changing environments
Signature Talks:
Decision Making Under Pressure
What Nearly 30 Years in Law Enforcement Taught Me About Thinking Clearly When everything Is on the Line
You Can No Longer Stay in Your Lane: The New Rules for Solving Problems No One Owns
The 30-Day Challenge: One Small Action Can Change Everything
Formats Available:
Keynote, Workshop, Executive Briefing
Daniel McDonald, MPA, is a leadership keynote speaker and retired Tampa police officer who helps leaders think clearly under pressure, break down organizational silos, and take meaningful action on difficult problems.
During his 29-year career in corrections and law enforcement, Daniel learned that the most complex challenges rarely fit neatly within one job description or department. After 14 years on patrol, he was asked to confront one of those challenges: homelessness.
In 2012, Daniel founded the Tampa Police Department Homeless Initiative and became the department’s first homeless liaison officer. By replacing a cycle of repeated enforcement with proactive engagement, creative problem-solving, and strong community partnerships, he helped connect hundreds of people with services and housing opportunities.
Daniel’s unconventional work—from recovering more than $40,000 for a man living on the streets to helping organize a $20,000 wedding for a formerly homeless couple—has been featured by The Today Show, People Magazine, Inside Edition, and BBC Radio.
A three-time presenter for the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA), Daniel has also spoken for the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and organizations across the United States and internationally. Today, he uses compelling stories, humor, and practical leadership insights to show audiences how small actions, courageous decisions, and unlikely partnerships can create extraordinary change.
THANKS for your interest in hiring Daniel for your event. Below are her setting and A/V requirements. Please send Daniel a message with any questions or concerns.
1) Settings: Please schedule Daniel’s presentation in a well-lit, climate-controlled room free from public address announcements, music, heavy foot traffic and other noises and distractions.
2) Audio Visual:
a. Projector and screen for slides
b. Stage lighting and/or spotlight to make certain Daniel is visible on stage
c. Sound system to amplify Daniel’s voice and through which to play sound (when necessary) from the computer adequate for the entire audience to hear
d. Remote control to advance slides
e. Headset microphone preferred. Lavalier microphone second preference. Handheld microphones are acceptable if the other two are not available.
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