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DeDe Halfhill
Colonel DeDe Halfill, USAF (ret.), transforms how leaders navigate today’s complex environment by addressing the ever-present but unearthed emotional dynamics that drive trust, collaboration, and success—what she calls Everyday Courage™.
Over her extraordinary 25-year military career, DeDe served two tours in Iraq, served as a principal advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staf, the U.S. Secretary of Defense, and the Commanding General of Multinational Forces Iraq during critical combat operations. These high-stakes roles taught her one truth: leaders who address the unspoken fears, frustrations, and emotions within their teams create cultures that thrive, even in chaos.
Her leadership approach—which gained international attention on 60 Minutes—centers on a powerful truth: great leadership isn’t forged in dramatic moments, but in daily choices to have honest conversations, challenge assumptions, and build authentic connections. Through her keynotes, advisory work, and training programs, DeDe equips leaders to transform emotional insight…
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Everyday Courage: Transforming Small Actions into Big Impact
We think courage only applies in the “big” moments—when we’re making crucial decisions, leading through crises, or launching critical initiatives.
But the truth is, the moments that actually shape our organizations are found in the small choices we make every day—the conversations we choose to have or avoid, the feedback we decide to give or hold onto, and the tough decisions we make or postpone. These moments are easy to miss, yet they determine so much of our success as leaders, teams, and individuals.
Twice deployed to Iraq and serving as a principal advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, retired Colonel DeDe Halfhill understands how easily these brave moments can be overlooked, limiting our potential.
In this inspiring keynote, she reveals how Everyday Courage™—the small, intentional actions we take daily—holds the key to unlocking our greatest advantage tomorrow.
Leader’s Connect: The Power of Connection to Drive Trust, Teamwork, and Results
Research shows that teams with strong interpersonal bonds experience higher trust, stronger collaboration, and the ability to adapt and thrive under pressure. In other words, connected teams are a force to be reckoned with. But building those connections—especially in today’s fast-paced and often remote environments—requires leaders to be intentional about creating trust and fostering meaningful relationships.
Whether serving as a squadron commander in Iraq, leading as the installation group commander at the home of the Air Force’s nuclear enterprise, or as the principal communications advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, retired Colonel DeDe Halfhill saw firsthand how connection drives collaboration, trust, and resilience.
In this actionable talk, she shares how leaders can cultivate these meaningful connections that transform teams into resilient, high-performing forces that power organizational success.
The Leadership Language of Trust: The Power of Authentic Leadership Communication
The cost of avoiding tough conversations can be far greater than the risk of getting them wrong. Yet many leaders hesitate, fearing they’ll say the wrong thing, trigger discomfort, or create tension. But what if avoiding those conversations is what’s holding your team back from building the trust and alignment needed to thrive?
Serving as the Director of DoD Press Operations and as an advisor to the Commanding General of the Multi-National Force–Iraq during critical combat operations, retired Colonel DeDe Halfhill has led communication efforts in some of the most complex and high-stakes environments imaginable. She understands how clear, authentic communication builds trust—even amidst crises—and strengthens the bonds that teams rely on to succeed.
In this keynote, she reveals how leaders can replace fear with confidence when engaging in tough conversations. By addressing the unspoken and building trust through transparency, leaders can create cultures where teams thrive and organizations flourish.
Heartfelt Leadership: The Wisdom of Women in a Changing World
As demands on leaders continue to evolve, organizations increasingly need leaders who understand people on a deeper level—seeing the whole person, not just the role they fill. But for women leaders, stepping fully into these strengths—connection, empathy, and collaboration—can feel like swimming against the tide of traditional leadership norms.
As a Georgetown University instructor for Women in Leadership in National Security and Foreign Policy, and having risen to senior leadership in the U.S. Air Force, retired Colonel DeDe Halfhill knows the power of women’s voices in shaping the future.
From advising the Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command to navigating high-stakes decision-making with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, she has shown that empathy, connection, and courage are not just advantages—they are necessities in today’s leadership landscape.
In this keynote, she encourages women to embrace their strengths and lead with intention. By tapping into their unique abilities to connect, collaborate, and inspire, women can create meaningful change in their organizations while driving innovation and growth.
What is DeDe Halfhill's speaking fee?
The typical range for DeDe Halfhill's speaking fee is $15,000–$25,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for DeDe Halfhill to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.
What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.
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Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.
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A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.
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Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.
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Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.
Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.
How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.
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Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.
Why book DeDe Halfhill though Key Speakers?
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