Practical Key Notes Speaking Engagement That Actually Changes Behavior

Most managers aren’t struggling because they lack intelligence or work ethic.

They’re struggling because no one ever taught them how to lead people.

Dr. Kortney Peagram delivers practical, behavior-based training that helps leaders communicate clearly, manage different personalities, address challenges directly, and build teams that actually function.

This is not theory-heavy or surface-level inspiration.

This is real-world leadership, translated into tools people can use immediately.

 

Speaking Topics

Accidentally a Manager: Now What?

For new and overwhelmed supervisors who were promoted without training

Many managers step into leadership roles with strong technical skills but little preparation for managing people. This 1-hour session provides practical tools to help them lead with clarity and confidence.

In this session, participants will learn how to:

• Communicate expectations clearly and consistently
• Give feedback without avoiding or overcorrecting
• Manage different personalities and work styles
• Build structure and accountability within their team

 

How to Handle “That Person” Without Losing the Room

For leaders navigating disruptive, socially off, or challenging behavior

Every team has moments where one person unintentionally derails meetings, overshares, interrupts, or misses social cues. Most leaders struggle with how to address this without shutting people down or escalating the situation.

In this session, participants will learn how to:

• Redirect behavior in real time without embarrassment or conflict
• Set boundaries while maintaining respect and inclusion
• Address ongoing behavior through effective 1:1 conversations
• Keep meetings and group dynamics on track

 

Say the Thing: Mastering Difficult Conversations at Work

For leaders who avoid conflict or struggle to address issues directly

Avoiding difficult conversations doesn’t make problems disappear, it makes them bigger. This session gives leaders a clear framework to approach conversations with confidence and clarity.

In this session, participants will learn how to:

• Prepare for and structure difficult conversations
• Stay calm and regulated in emotionally charged moments
• Address performance and behavior issues directly
• Build trust while holding people accountable

 

Stop Working So Hard Start Working Smarter

For professionals who want to increase visibility and influence

Many high performers believe that hard work alone leads to recognition and advancement. In reality, visibility and strategic relationships play a critical role in career growth.

In this session, participants will learn how to:

• Build strategic workplace relationships
• Increase visibility without feeling inauthentic
• Manage up and communicate effectively with leadership
• Position themselves for growth and opportunity

 

Leading Without Losing Yourself

For leaders navigating burnout, pressure, and emotional overload

Leadership comes with emotional weight. Without the right tools, that pressure impacts decision-making, communication, and overall effectiveness.

In this session, participants will learn how to:

• Manage emotional reactions in high-pressure situations
• Set boundaries that support sustainability and performance
• Stay grounded while leading others
• Recognize and prevent burnout patterns

 

What Makes This Different in These Keynotes

Dr. Kortney Peagram’s work sits at the intersection of business psychology and real-world leadership.

She doesn’t just explain behavior, she translates it into practical, actionable tools leaders can use immediately in meetings, conversations, and everyday interactions.

Participants leave with:

• Clear language to use in real situations
• Tools they can apply immediately
• Increased confidence in how they lead and communicate

 

🛠️ Speaking Formats

All sessions can be customized to meet your organization’s needs.

Available formats include:

• Keynotes (45–60 minutes)
• Interactive workshops (90 minutes to half-day)
• Multi-session leadership training programs