Frank O'Dea

Topics

Presentations

Spirit of the Entrepreneur
Bringing his entrepreneurial spirit to the not-for-profit sector, Frank’s listeners will hear about the serendipitous meeting that became Street Kids International, and how the War Child (Canada) came into existence, and how a late-night phone call from the Minister of External Affairs became the Canadian Landmine Foundation.

Courage to Hope
Frank demonstrates this power of hope by using his own story and experiences of hope, courage, change and persistence. Humble yet powerful, Frank relates how he went from the bowery, panhandling for nickels and dimes not so many years ago, to the successes he has achieved today.

Summary Profile

Frank O'Dea's story of triumph over adversity and singular ambition and determination in the face of dire circumstances has inspired audiences around the world. His bowery to the boardroom story is one that is truly inspiring.

From living on the street and against all odds, O'Dea became one of Canada's most successful and celebrated entrepreneurs, founding numerous businesses, including The Second Cup. He tells his audiences the fascinating story behind its creation. In addition to his string of business successes, O'Dea's achievements in the not-for-profit sector, both in Canada and worldwide, are extraordinary. The Secretary General of the UN Kofi Annan, The Secretary of State in the US, Colin Powell and even former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney have all praised and supported his work.

O'Dea has been featured in several print and broadcast media, and he is a popular interviewee in locales where he is invited to speak. His ideas on leadership, entrepreneurship and visionary thinking make him a compelling and sought after speaker. While he inspires audiences and leaves them with a renewed respect for the power of the human spirit, he does more than that. He shares with his audience the three keys that unlocked his success and shows his audiences how they can use these keys in their own personal and business lives.

Among his many honours, O'Dea is an Officer of the Order of Canada and holds two Honorary Doctor of Laws degrees, from Royal Roads University and Carleton University, respectively. A book about his inspiring journey, entitled When All You Have is Hope, has been published by Penguin Books and is available online and in bookstores across the country.

Rave Reviews:

"Of all of the convention speakers that we've had over the years, I don't think anyone captivated the audience the way you did. You have such a good message that empowers people. "

Association of Parent Support Groups in Ontario Toronto

"We had people from all across the country here, from the smallest to the biggest service departments, and they were all impressed with your message." 

Ford Motor Company