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Book the Right Mental Health & Leadership Speaker

Mental health and leadership are two topics businesses can no longer afford to treat as afterthoughts. The leaders who succeed today aren’t just the ones who hit targets – they’re the ones who create environments where their teams can thrive, stay resilient, and feel included.

But making this shift requires more than good intentions. It takes guidance, practical tools, and conversations that break down the stigma surrounding mental health in leadership. That’s where bringing in the right mental health speaker or leadership speaker can make all the difference.

I know this because I’ve been there – leading teams, navigating high-pressure environments, and experiencing first hand how mental health challenges like anxiety and depression can impact even the most driven leaders. I co-founded a business and grew it from the ground up to 7 figures, leading teams and working with major brands like Pirelli and Vaillant. Along the way, I saw the impact that leadership—good and bad—can have on the wellbeing of teams and the overall success of a business.

So, if you’re looking to bring this conversation to your organisation, here’s how to find the right speaker—and why I believe I’m the right person to help you.

1. Be Clear on What You Want to Achieve

Let’s start with the basics. What’s your goal? Do you want to:

  • Help leaders recognise the impact of their mental health on their leadership style and teams?
  • Give your team practical strategies for managing stress and fostering inclusion?
  • Break the stigma around mental health and create a culture of open dialogue?

I believe that clarity drives success. When I work with companies, I start by understanding exactly what they want to achieve. Whether it’s an inspiring keynote or a deep-dive workshop, I tailor the session to address the specific challenges your leaders and teams are facing. No two talks are the same, because no two businesses are the same.

2. Choose a Speaker with Real-World Leadership Experience

When it comes to leadership and mental health, I believe experience matters. The best speakers aren’t just sharing research—they’re sharing insights gained from navigating real leadership challenges.

In my case, I’ve led teams through the highs and lows of building a business. I’ve experienced the pressure of leading growth while dealing with my own struggles with anxiety and depression. I know what it’s like to juggle deadlines, client demands, and team morale, all while trying to stay mentally strong.

This isn’t theory to me—it’s personal. That’s why when I speak to leaders, I don’t just talk about what they should do. I share what I’ve learned from my own journey and from years of working closely with businesses and leaders across industries.

3. Customisation is Non-Negotiable

If you’ve ever sat through a generic presentation, you know how easy it is to tune out. That’s why customisation is non-negotiable for me. Before I step on stage or lead a workshop, I take the time to understand your company’s unique culture, challenges, and goals.

If your leaders are struggling with burnout, I’ll focus on recognising the early warning signs and setting boundaries. If inclusion is the priority, we’ll dive into how leaders can create psychologically safe environments where everyone feels heard and valued.

Tailoring the content ensures that the message resonates and sticks with your team long after the session ends.

4. Balance Vulnerability with Actionable Solutions

I’ve learned that vulnerability in leadership is powerful—but it’s not the whole picture. Leaders need to feel safe opening up about their mental health, but they also need practical tools to navigate challenges and support their teams effectively.

When I speak, I share my personal experiences—how I managed anxiety and depression while leading a business, and the lessons I learned along the way. But I also provide actionable strategies that leaders can implement immediately, such as:

  • Recognising and addressing burnout before it spirals.
  • Balancing vulnerability with strength to build trust within teams.
  • Creating inclusive environments where employees feel safe to speak up and contribute.

It’s this combination of personal insight and practical advice that makes my sessions impactful and memorable.

5. Engagement is Essential

Let’s be honest—mental health and leadership aren’t light topics, but that doesn’t mean they should feel heavy or overwhelming. A good speaker knows how to engage an audience and create a comfortable space for reflection, discussion, and growth.

I don’t deliver stiff, formal lectures. My talks are interactive and conversational, often blending storytelling with humour and real-world examples. I create a space where people feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their own experiences. Because the more engaged your audience is, the more likely they are to take the message to heart and apply it in their day-to-day lives.

6. Follow-Up Matters

One-off talks can spark inspiration, but they’re only the beginning. For real, lasting change, it’s important to continue the conversation.

That’s why I often work with companies beyond the initial session, offering follow-up workshops or ongoing support to help leaders embed the lessons into their daily routines. It’s about creating a sustainable shift in mindset and behaviour—not just a temporary boost of motivation.

Gary Parsons speaking at a leadership mental health event

Why Book Me?

There are plenty of speakers who can talk about leadership or mental health, but what sets me apart is the combination of lived experience, business acumen, and a passion for breaking down the stigma of mental health in the workplace.

When you book me, you’ll get:

  • Leadership experience you can trust: I’ve led teams, grown a successful business, and worked with major brands.
  • Deep understanding of mental health challenges: I’ve navigated anxiety and depression while leading, so I know firsthand the struggles leaders face—and how to overcome them.
  • Customised, actionable advice: No fluff or generic advice. I deliver tailored strategies your leaders can apply right away.
  • Engagement that sticks: I create sessions that are thought-provoking, interactive, and practical, so your team walks away inspired and equipped.

Let’s Talk About How I Can Support Your Team

If you’re looking for a speaker who can help your leaders navigate the intersection of mental health, leadership, and inclusion, I’d love to work with you. Whether it’s a keynote, workshop, or a longer-term initiative, I’m ready to tailor the experience to fit your needs.

Get in touch today, and let’s create a session that leaves your team empowered, inspired, and ready to lead with empathy and strength.

https://garyparsons.uk

A Leadership Mental Health Advocate and Inspirational Speaker, Gary works with businesses and leadership teams to break the stigma and begin prioritising their own mental health and wellbeing. Reach out today to discover how Gary can support your team in cultivating a culture of wellbeing and effective leadership.

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