Speaking

Real-World Leadership. Delivered In Person.

From leading FEMA through a global pandemic and historic disasters, to managing crisis at the federal, state, and local level—Pete brings unmatched insight, clarity, and presence to each room he walks into.

His speaking style is straight to the point. Practical. And deeply rooted in real-world experience.

Whether it’s a keynote, panel, or team leadership session, Pete delivers leadership that resonates—and sticks.

In-Person Masterclass:
Leading During Crisis

This isn’t a lecture, it’s an interactive crash course in solving problems in impossible situations.

In this dynamic 3-hour course you’ll be lead through real-life examples of being in high-level leadership through the toughest two-and-a-half years in recent memory (while in the middle of a political firestorm).

By the end of class, you’ll have a new understanding of what it takes to lead during a crisis—and you’ll be prepared to take on the challenge.

    • This class is best for groups of 30-60 participants at mid to high levels of leadership in the corporate, government or military sectors.

    • Yes, Pete is available to travel anywhere within the United States to teach the course. Whether it's your state or town, he is dedicated to bringing this transformative experience directly to your group.

    • To schedule a class, simply complete the contact form at the bottom of this page, and we'll reach out to you within 3 days. Pete will connect with you to discuss your specific needs and ensure mutual agreement.

    • After confirming the details, you can select a date that suits your schedule.

Previous Engagements

Pete has spoken for national organizations, private sector leadership teams, and top-level emergency management events, including:

    • Building Resilience Conference on “The Resilience Reset: Ensuring America is Ready for the Next Disaster.”

    • 2025 Summit

    • It was a week filled with a robust agenda, including sessions on 'Leading During Crisis', a keynote address on 'Strengthening Resilience Through Innovation and Collaboration'

    • 2024 National Urban Search and Rescue Conference in the City of Orlando

    • Keynote speech focused on "Resilience in Action: The Critical Role of Preparedness in Disaster Response" at this year's EMS & FIRE PRO Expo and Conference held at Foxwoods Resort Casino, CT today.

    • Annual conference in Stevens Point, WI this week. Thanks to WEMA President Tyler Esh, CEM and the opportunity to talk about the Next Generation of Emergency Managers!

  • "Pete has the sort of easy grasp of crisis leadership that only comes from being tested in the fire. His laser-like ability to dissect complex problems and rapidly build effective teams is remarkable. After hearing him speak, you'll find your entire approach to crisis leadership transformed."

    — Lt. Col. Steve Johnson, SO-1 Counter CBRN Policy and Assurance, British Army

  • "My organization hired Pete to discuss the challenges he faced in various leadership roles. He described navigating serious issues through practical means and shared his decision-making process. I came away with valuable tools to solve problems—both expected and unexpected. I highly recommend his services to any organization."

    — Michael Cranson, Fire Chief, Town of Nantucket, MA

  • “Pete Gaynor’s Leadership During Crisis training is time well invested...” His unparalleled experience—from leading FEMA and DHS to serving at state, local, and military levels—brings unique insight into crisis leadership challenges and decision-making.”

    —Michael J. Mulhare, P.E., Associate Vice President, Public Safety, Virginia Tech

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Book Pete to Speak

Ready to have Pete speak at your next summit, leadership event, or team strategy session?

Fill out the form below, and we’ll be in touch within 3 business days to discuss how we can make it a high-impact experience for your audience.