For the past fifteen years I have been an educator at Wareham High School in Wareham Massachusetts. Over the years I estimate that I have seen roughly fifty youth speakers. This May Jeff Yalden came and spoke with our upper classmen. Jeff came into the building at a tough time of the year when students are being faced with decisions that could have both positive and negative consequences on their immediate future. Jeff reinforced concepts that are not only important to educators but students as well. I can honestly say that Jeff’s presentation was unlike any other that I have attended. I would like to emphasize the fact that Jeff spoke with, not at our students. Jeff is not your typical speaker; if you’re looking for someone that is mediocre…do not book him. His message was positive, self-empowering, and promoted smart decision making. I look forward to having Jeff attend our school again. I whole-heartily believe that you will not only enjoy Jeff, but you also will be asking him to come speak at your school again.

Your ability to humorous connect with both students and adults while at the same time, delivering important life messages, is truly a gift. Your willingness to tell your family’s stories allowed each of us to instantly connect, as the ups and downs of family relationships and how we deal with them affect us all. As I scanned the audience, the adults were as riveted as the students. Our teachers and staff were thankful, they understood the message and could relate. Several staff and students wanted to know where you were speaking next, so that they could attend. Keep up the good work. Your support staff was also user friendly. Deb was great.

Thanks again for the wonderful presentation to our staff and students at South Central Jr./Sr. High School.  We still have students and parents talking about your message.  I hope you contine to spread the good word to students as I saw the benefit that you brought to the table for our students.

This was the best assembly our school has ever had, says staff and students.  My son and his freinds were very impressed and you left them in awe.

WOW, What can I say, third time's a charm! After hearing you speak three times in five months time, I know if I asked my kids if they would want you to come back and speak next month the answer would be definately.  Last night was a night the students in our district will never forget.  This morning my Prinicpal greeted me with "That was really awesome last night," and she too had heard you speak before.  That's a true indication of a great youth speaker, one who can wow people that have already heard them speak. 

Jeff had the students at Enid High hurting with laughter, but when he paused you could hear a pin drop because they wanted to hear his every word.  For one afternoon, Jeff united the students and faculty at Enid High School with his powerful message.

The student feedback was so incredibly positive.  They just loved you.

As one of many student leaders who attended your speech and participated in your activities, I found your style captivating and truthful.  You are able to effectively engage a large number of students, allow us to experience sadness, happiness, and laughter, all in teaching us about being great leaders and most of all, good people.  Your speaking techniques and interactive activities made the entire group of students, from all different activities, clubs, sports, and cliques from around our school, feel comfrotable and connect with each other while learning important lessons and forming unique memories.  This level of comfort is extremely hard for a complete group of students to reach together, but you succeeded!  Based on the feedback we received, it is safe to speak on behalf of all the participants in Leadershop 2007, that everyone's favorite part of the day was the human chain, along with every other physically challenging activity you gave us.  These activities, especially, pushed us past our comfort zones and allowed us to grow individually and as a school.  From all the leaders and administrators at Farmington High School, we'd like to thank you for your visit.  You gave us all an unforgettable learning experience and apprecaite it greatly.

It was a magnificent two days!

Thank you for the tremendous energy that you put into your presentation, your passion in helping youth and your willingness to come to Long Beach and participate in our conference.

Our students were totally immersed in his presentation.  His unique style allowed him to be immediately accepted.  As a testimony to the great job he did, the students were lined up for an hour and a half to purchase his shirts, books, wristbands, etc.  He sold out and is sending more.  Everyone has told me that he is the best youth speaker we have ever had.

On behalf of the 2007-2008 FCCLA National Executive Council, I would like to thank you for taking the time to MAKE A DIFFERENCE at our 2007 National Cluster Meetings.  Your powerful message and enthusiasm on stage truly made an impact on all attendees.  You are such a phenomenal person, and I would like to thank you for taking the time after the sessions to meet with all of the FCCLA members, and spending time with the NEC for pizza.  Everyone had great things to say about you. 

Thank you for the wonderful work you accomplshed with our youth at this year's Youth Summit.  You impressed us with your ability to be flexible and willingness to take the lead and facilitate some exciting and eye-opening breakout sessions!  I can not speak highly enough of your professionalism.

Your message has been the first that is able to make me laugh, cry, and want to change the world.  Your message is so inspiring and I can not thank you enough for the values that you have instilled inside of me.  I appreciate everything you are doing for us as youth, and everything you have to say.

I was super happy that you came to our school today!  You made us all laugh and cry and everyone had a great time.  You send a great message to teens everywhere and I just got your book this morning and finished it!  It was awesome!  Thanks for writing the book and sending the message!  You are a great youth speaker for teens.

I am the teacher in the lunch room who taught in Alaska for 20 years and have a total of 30 years in as a teacher.  The kids in my classes are so impressed by your message.  You have touched these "youths" in a way that our staff cannot begin to try to duplicate.

The assembly today was the COOLEST!!!!

No keynote speaker has ever been as so amazing as you! I can't explain it in words how incredible you were!  You made such a huge impact and difference on my life for just the short 45 min. you spoke.  I could have stayed there all day to hear you talk.  Just like everyone else there, I didn't want your speech to be over.  At the conference I purchased your book, "They Call Me Coach."  When I got home, I began to read it, and I couldn't put it down.  I finished the book in ONE day!  It was indescribable!! I have never read a book or have ever heard anything that inspirational and motivational.  I am so grateful I was given a chance to hear your words of wisdom if even for a short time.  Maybe that's why I felt I had to write you, because just listening to you for a little bit wasn't enough.  I got to hear you, but I never had a chance to tell you "Thank You" and how much you touched my life.  You could go from the funniest thing ever; making people laugh uncontollably, to the most serious, sad, and emotional story i've ever heard; all in an instant and at the exact right moment and time to do so.  It was simply amazing.  It was like you were right there talking to me.

School Assembly guy was really funny.  I liked how he made fun of himself and how he was funny and he got his message through to everyone.

Today's assembly was pretty cool.  It was definately the best school assembly we have ever had.  I was actually planning to go to sleep and almost did until he started talking.  He kept me awake because he was very funny and he was very serious at the same time.

How can a speaker tell 1500 kids that he doesn't care if we're happy?  Yet everybody loved him and he gets a standing ovation?  He had to have been probably one of the very best youth speakers ever to come to our school.  He spoke with us and not at us.  He spoke in our language.  He was funny and yet very serious at the same time.  It looked like he really enjoyed what he does - speaking to teens.  He connected and I am really tough on people trying to tell me how to live my life.  It was absolutely amazing how he connected with us.  His talk was the most important thing I have ever learned while in high school.

I liked that he made what he wanted to tell us funny and a way that we can understand.  He also made it so that we can relate to it all.

The school assembly was great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wish I had two bucks to buy one of his bracelets.

He was a good talker and he made us laugh.  He was enthusiastic and real with everything he said.  I liked him a lot and he was an amazing teen speaker.

Testimonials from Sycamore High School, Blue Ash, OH

We just wanted to write to thank you on behald of the entire Sycamore High School staff and student body for your time, energy, and enthusiasm as the kick-off speaker of Diversity Day 2007.  in our opinion, YOU ROCK!  We asked our students to write about their views on the best of the day, and YOU were a resounding answer for "THE BEST" - here are some of their comments about you:

"I really enjoyed the way (Jeff) speaks because he made me see things through a different perspective from the way I've seeing things." - A.H. Junior

"The one thing that stood out to me about Jeff was his great enthusiasm and he just seemed like he really wanted to there." L.R. Senior

"My favorite part about the whole day was listneing to Jeff Yalden, I was like the polar bear at the zoo, waiting for each fish after completing a task.  My fish, however, were filled with comical and motivational genius! - M.S. Senior (to demonstarte further how this kid's mind works: he also wrote that "Diversity Day rocks his socks!" and that anyone who skipped Diversity Day was missing out because: "No matter what we do that day, it's gotta be better than sitting aournd in your underwear eating Funyons, watching the new episode of Tyra." He is one of, if not the, funniest kids I have ever met ~ Lis)

"The best part of the whole day was listening to Jeff Yalden.  He did a good job of tying in his life experience to diversity . . .  he also used examples as to how teenagers behave today.  It really related to us." V.H. Senior

"He was a great, funny speaker but yet he still talked about hard-core life stuff that we all could walk away with something good from what he said." - H.K. Senior

"He touched on good points but he also had me laughing so hard I almost peed my pants." - L.R. Senior

Suffice it to say you were a HIT!  Your presence as the opening speaker truly set the tone for a day of open-mindness, acceptance, changing perspectives, and fun!  The school is still abuzz about you - how you stayed for the whole day and stuck around afterward and went to the lacrosse game.  You have been adopted as an honorary Aviator!

We, as well as many others, are tyring to keep your lessons alive so they do not lose their potency.  We still see lots of white bracelets - that's a good thing!  We have referenced your speech in class and in conversations, as have our students- you have made a difference at Sycamore.

Thanks again for doing what you do - know that it is appreciated and valued, especially at Sycamore.

Sincerely,

Liz Gonda & Lisa Dunster, English Teachers & Diversity Day Committee Members, Sycamore High School

I would like to fully endorse Mr. Jeff Yalden as a well-qualified speaking professional, specifically targeting college and university audiences.  We hosted Mr. Yalden at New England College to do a program and he made a great connection with the students, faculty and staff who attended. His unique antics will be certain to grab student's attention and keep it as they ride the roller coaster of emotions that Mr. Yalden brings to the event.  Not only is he a dynamic speaker, at New England College we found him to be a pleasure to meet and do business with.

A few years back you were the keynote speaker at our conference, and when it came time to decide on this year's keynote we remembered what a positive experience our organization had with you.  Thank you so much for helping  to make this year's annual state conference a great success.  You beautifully incorporated the theme of the weekend into your presentation.  From a great opening keynote as the kick off Friday night to your workshops Saturday morning your energy was transmitted to the students to set the tone for the weekend.  Most of all thank you for going above and beyond the call of duty to reach out to our delegation.  Throughout the weekend you could always be found, not up in your cabin, but 'on the course' because you were with the delegates in their workshops, at their meals, always there to talk and inspire.

I wish to express my appreciation for your presentation to our 7th & 8th grade students.  It is quite clear, through the reactions I saw during the 90 minutes you were speaking that you know your audience, and you care about out youth.  The presentation was all at once entertaining, engaging, and most of all enlightening.  The students were laughing one minute and silently on the edge of their seats the next, experience quite a few 'aha' moments.  The most common reaction, from adults as well as students, was 'AWESOME'.  I really think they got it.  We are all working to 'Fill our cup'.

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this letter to anyone that is looking for the perfect guest speaker for your school event. Mr. Yalden, by far, is the most interesting and thought-provoking speaker that my students have had the priviledge of meeting. Jeff speaks about real-life moments and adds his flair for humor to each story.

Sitting and listening to him, one can tell he is passionate about his mission to explain how each and every one of us can "fill our cups" if we put our mind to it. His message is clear and the students "get it!"

After his presentation at our conference, many teachers approached me and asked how they could get Jeff at their school event. He and his staff were extremely easy to keep in contact with and the planning process was stress-free. I appreciated that. Jeff and I spoke on the phone to finalize details and I knew I made the right choice for our presenter. I can guarantee that Mr. Jeff Yalden is the best speaker you will have the honor of listening to at your school event.

Talk about making a huge impression!! My daughter came home and hasn't even come up for breath!! You made a huge impression on her, a child who already has a full cup and continues to fill it daily. Genna likened you to her grandfather, a man with a huge heart and great mind. I can honestly tell you that being compared to a man like my father is truly one of the biggest compliments that could have been paid to you! Genna purchased your book, can't wait to read it, and will be looking to purchase your other books. As a parent, I thank you for leaving such a powerful and positive impression on my daughter and likely, countless others like her.

Please let me take a moment of your time to thank you for the wonderful presentation you made to our students today! To say that is was "powerful" would be an understatement. The halls are literally buzzing with positive feedback from the students, even from some of our biggest cynics. The students remained in the auditorium for almost an hour after you left and we talked about your message and how each individual student can make a difference in their personal life, their academic life and the overall success of the school. The students made wonderfully insightful comments about your presentation. The faculty and staff were "blown away!" The most repeated comment from the students was "it was the best assembly I have ever seen."

The poster you left is already filled with signatures and I agreed to personally purchase a wrist band for any student that would express an interest in having one. We already have 75 takers and I'm sure there are more to come.

As you mentioned to me when we spoke before the assembly, I will be forwarding an order to you tomorrow for bands, books and shirts (we have interest in all of those).

Again, thank you for sharing your message and your life, and I truly believe that you have touched our students personally!

It was so refreshing to hear someone who actually understands what’s going on in high schools.

Your presentation got teens thinking about making good choices and seemed to really hit home for some teens.  You were hilarious and inspirational all in one!  There were times where you could hear a pin drop.  I appreciate your candidness and personal stories that you shared making you very real to your audience.

Our students are known for not being able to handle assemblies. They have a short attention span and can be very obnoxious. I have never seen an individual obtain the type of respect that Mr. Yalden commands.

You completely related to us teens inthe world today.  You broke down all the problems, issues, and complicated things that we go through while growing up.  Things I haven't been sure about and questioned, you answered perfectly, "bull's eye", as if you were reading our minds.

We listened to so many speakers during the conference, and you were by far the best. You really opened my mind. The world is lucky to have people like you, Jeff!

Jeff Yalden was an invaluable addition to the 69th Annual Southern Association of Student Councils Conference. His educational and appealing presentation was more than just another keynote speech. It was a learning experience, a chance to add something about personal challenges and character education to the lives of over 1,000 students from the southern region of the United States. Jeff’s magnetic enthusiasm, humor, and passion stole the audience and every ounce of their attention.

In the month following Jeff’s visit, the amount of disciplinary problems fell by 44%.

The guy from the assembly was absolutely funny.  He also made a great point by sayiing that you should improve your life daily and choose wisely who your friends are. He was awesome.

Teachers who had missed Jeff’s workshop made arrangements to skip their lunch in order to hear him speak. I have never seen students brought to tears and then leave the assembly cheering. They were cheering their own lives.

You might not remember me, but I wrote you an email about 3 years ago.  I graduated over a year ago from Boston College . . . You spoke at Sacred Heart on Long Island when I was a student there and I LOVED your overall message.   I wrote you because I was going to study abroad in Australia and I was very torn and confused about what I should do about my boyfriend situation.  Well, I want to say thank you for the advice you gave me.  I wanted to do the right thing in that situation and you helped me to tell him I needed my time to grow and be on my own.  To make a long story short, I wound up traveling to places such as Thailand and New Zealand, learning about myself all along the way!  He and I reconnected a few years later and are happy together right now.  RIght now, I am starting my first year teaching 1st grade in a parochial school on Long Island.  Thanks for all that you do, motivating young people.  Thanks again!

Thank you for speaking at our annual commencement. It was undoubtedly one of the most stirring messages ever delivered to our graduating seniors.

From Portage Area High School, Portage, PA

"Jeff's presentation was high energy and fun yet at times heart wrenching.  He speaks plainly to the students and tells them exactly what we all want our student to know.  Be true to yourself and focus on your character more than social acceptance.  As administrators, we struggle balancing instructional time with appropriate programs for our students.  This program was right on the mark and without a doubt added value to our instructional day." - Ralph J. Cecere Jr., Principal, Portage Area School District, PA

"From the first word till the last, Jeff held our Students attention!  Using the visual of 'Filling' the glass of water is something we will remember!  Our art teacher made a giant glass which is now hanging in our cafeteria!" - Sue Conlon, High School SADD Advisor

"Jeff, what an awesome presentation.  Your message is presented in a manner that high school youth can relate to!  It was obvious to all in attendance, young and old alike that you truly care about our youth.  Continue to send your message across America . . . 'Don't give up . . . Don't ever give up!!!!' - Ken Meckey, Health & P.E. Instructor

"In my 35 years as an educator, Jeff Yalden was among the best, if not the best youth motivational speaker, to address our student body at Protage Area High School.  He used humor and visual demonstrations to get his point across.  Jeff was a huge success and was well received by our students and teachers." - Doug Conlon, Portage Area Guidance Counselor

Jeff has the ability to reach the very heart of his audience by relating experiences to their lives, and also by giving them direction and hope for their futures.

In fifteen years of bringing speakers to Warwick High School, this was the first time anyone has received a standing ovation from the students. Well done! Thank you.

You'll be proud to host Jeff at your school because he is a great role model who truly cares about the character and integrity of our country.

I must say that I was skeptical that Jeff, with all his references and commendations, could possibly live up to the hype. I see now that everything they say is true. Jeff had our students rolling in the aisles with laughter and, sure enough, standing to applaud at the end. Considering what Jeff did in captivating these 750 students for over an hour, it may be the best investment we’ve made all year. Meeting Jeff on a personal level afterward only proved that he is just as real in person. What an amazing and gifted person. The kids are still talking!

Jeff was at our school on May 27, 2008.  I just wanted to thank him for all he did that day.  I really appreciated the time he was able to spend with the students after the event.  Also, having lunch with the students involved in our Mock DWI event was way beyond anything we could have hoped for.  He was EVERYTHING advertised and more.  I have gotten so much positive feedback from students and adults.  It was the perfect way for us to kick off our prom weekend.  Thank you, Jeff!

Mr. Yalden captured the students’ attention immediately. He is a dynamic storyteller with a powerful message. The students appreciated being engaged as young adults instead of receiving another lecture.

The response was nothing short of phenomenal. Students, teachers, and counselors were impressed with your energy and sincerity. Everyone was touched by your poignant stories and encouragement to maximize their own potential, regardless of negative influences.

At the end of his presentation, kids were giving Jeff handshakes and hugs with both tears and smiles.

It is rare to find a speaker who knows the teenage soul as well as Jeff does. His stories really hit home with the students. Jeff inspired our students to consider their greatest potential.

The best school assembly I ever went to.  It was really moving, eye-opening and inspiring.  He made extreme points and definately made me look at life in a better way.  He made the outlook on life so much more meaningful and great.  He inspired a lot of the people in our school because he was such a powerful youth speaker.  If I would listen to any speaker, I would always want it to be him because he is really sensational.

I can't say enough about the positive feedback we’ve had from board members, reporters, students, and staff. Parents gave you a standing ovation, and students are asking when you’ll be back.

I've heard many speakers that claim to talk to youth on ‘their level.’ Jeff goes beyond talking and truly connects with young people. Listening to Jeff’s stories, you experience a variety of emotions, but unlike other speakers that keep you in a state of depression or fear, Jeff leaves you with a positive outlook on life.