Matt Whiat

Business leader, Consultant, Idea generator, Performer, Public servant, Writer/Editor

As a co-founder of the Barry-Wehmiller Leadership Institute, Matt draws on his previous 20 years of leadership experience as a former US Air Force Officer, helping organizations create cultures that put people first. In 2011, while on Active Duty, one of Matt’s missions was to escort Simon Sinek into Afghanistan. On this fateful trip and through an unusual set of circumstances Matt became not only a believer in Simon’s work, but a brother for life. Simon walked away with an idea, which later became his second book, “Leaders Eat Last”. Simon and Matt later collaborated in creating the Department of Defense’s first TEDx speaking event, choosing to showcase “those who serve others”. A friend and mentor of Simon’s, Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller was a speaker at the event. When Matt heard Bob’s inspirational story he decided he wanted to join Bob and his team in building a world where everyone matters. Matt’s previous roles include service in the United Nations to bring peace to Liberia, West Africa, working with NATO partners for operations in Afghanistan, boot camp squadron commander and service on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon.

Putting people in the driver's seat so that passion and opportunity can meet

Business has the potential to have a dramatic positive influence in our societies. True philantrophy exists in how you treat those entrusted to your care.

Leadership, Organizational Culture, Public Speaking, Start With Why

Led the Department of Defense's first and only public TEDx event (TEDxScottAFB) with the theme: "Service to Others" http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL003829ADDD59E69C Speaker at TEDxSLU (Saint Louis University)