Unfiltered. Unapologetic. Unforgettable.

David Giffen is not your typical keynote speaker. He’s a former frontline mental health specialist, crisis responder, chaplain, and leadership coach who’s walked with people through the darkest storms—and came through his own with fire in his gut and stories worth telling.

As the founder of 403 Leadership Collective and Authentic Ginger Media, David brings an edge to every stage he steps on. He challenges systems, uplifts the underdog, and empowers leaders to show up real. Raw storytelling meets deep professional insight in keynotes that leave people talking, thinking, and—most importantly—acting.

Whether he's unpacking trauma-informed leadership or pushing the conversation on justice, forgiveness, and truth, David delivers talks that hit the heart and ignite the room.

Chaplain to the Guilty

Forgiveness, Redemption, and Restorative Justice

David spent ten years as a priest, walking alongside people that society had written off—addicts, inmates, survivors, and those labeled “too far gone.” This keynote explores the power of showing up for the guilty and the grace required to believe in redemption when others won’t.

Rooted in lived experience and theological reflection, David challenges audiences to rethink justice, mercy, and what it really means to forgive. It’s a raw, honest, and deeply human conversation about accountability, healing, and the sacred work of repair.

Perfect for: social service organizations, faith-based institutions, justice advocates, educators, and anyone reckoning with systemic harm.

Mental

A Trauma-Informed Approach to Leadership and Wellness

We say "mental health matters"—but do we lead like it does?

In this powerful and practical keynote, David breaks down what trauma-informed leadership really looks like. Drawing from 15+ years in crisis response, community health, and organizational consulting, he equips audiences with tools to lead with empathy, self-awareness, and resilience.

This isn't a wellness trend—it's a survival skill for modern leadership.

Best suited for: executive teams, frontline managers, HR professionals, healthcare leaders, educators, and changemakers looking to build brave spaces and emotionally intelligent workplaces.

Badder Than the Storm

A Keynote by David Giffen

This is the flagship experience. David’s signature keynote is a soul-level reminder that no storm is bigger than the strength within us.

Part memoir, part manifesto, this talk pulls from David’s personal journey through trauma, identity, collapse, and the fight to rebuild. It’s about owning your scars, reclaiming your power, and refusing to stay down.

If your team, audience, or community needs to be reminded that they’re not just survivors—they’re storm-breakers—this keynote will land.

Ideal for: conferences, leadership retreats, motivational events, and any audience looking for courage, clarity, and a kick in the soul.

👥 Want David at Your Next Event?

Let’s make it unforgettable.
David customizes each keynote to fit the unique tone, audience, and outcomes of your event. Whether you’re organizing a leadership summit, corporate retreat, or frontline training, this is your chance to bring in a speaker who blends lived experience with actionable wisdom—and leaves people fired up to lead, heal, and transform.

📧 Booking & Media Inquiries
David@403LC.com