About peter

THE STORY BEHIND THE ENERGY

Peter Shankman has never been one to sit still, and that’s exactly why the world pays attention when he speaks.

A globally recognized keynote speaker, bestselling author, and entrepreneur, Peter’s unstoppable energy and unfiltered honesty make him one of the most dynamic voices in business today. The New York Times once called him “a rock star who knows everything about social media and then some.” But to Peter, it’s not about media exposure, it’s about helping people and companies see what’s possible when they stop thinking inside the lines.

With six bestselling books, three startup launches and exits, and clients that range from American Express and Adobe to NASA and Disney, Peter is trusted by global brands to bring a mix of innovation, inspiration, and irreverent humor that sticks. Whether he’s talking about customer experience, marketing, or neurodiversity in the workplace, Peter doesn’t just inform, he ignites the crowd.

REDEFINING WHAT'S POSSIBLE

Peter is best known for helping audiences and organizations unlock potential by thinking differently. His ADHD, which he proudly calls his superpower, fuels his creativity, empathy, and ability to connect with any room, anywhere.

He’s the founder of Help A Reporter Out (HARO) and now Source of Sources (SOS), the revolutionary services that changed the way journalists connect with sources. He’s also the creator and host of Faster Than Normal, the world’s #1 podcast on ADHD and neurodiversity, helping thousands of listeners discover that having a “faster brain” is a gift, not a limitation.

Peter believes kids deserve to feel empowered too. In reshaping the idea of ADHD through his bestselling children’s book, The Boy With the Faster Brain, Peter is helping kids (and parents) around the world see the brilliance in thinking differently.

"FOR THE FIRST HALF OF MY LIFE, I WAS TOLD I WAS BROKEN. ONCE I LEARNED MY BRAIN WORKED DIFFERENTLY-AND THAT WAS OKAY-I REALIZED I WAS GIFTED. THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING."

TRUSTED BY THE WORLD'S BIGGEST BRANDS

Peter’s insights have shaped teams and inspired leaders at: American Express, SAP, Morgan Stanley, Google, Adobe, NASA, Disney, Royal Bank of Canada, The US Department of Defense, and countless others.

His keynotes and workshops are in demand for their high energy, humor, and ability to create lasting transformation, Whether he’s on stage at TEDs, SXSW or delivering a virtual talk to a Fortune 50 team, Peter brings the same message success starts with human connection.

INSPIRING A NEURODIVERSE FUTURE

As one of the world’s leading neurodiversity advocates, Peter is changing how workplaces and schools see ADHD, ADD, EFD, and other forms of different thinking. Through his talks, podcast, and writing, he’s building what he calls “The Neurodiverse Economy-a future where creativity, empathy, and unconventional thinking drive innovation”.

He speaks to both corporate teams and classrooms, teaching leaders and students alike that difference is the new competitive advantage.

BEYOND THE STAGE

When he’s not speaking, writing, or recording, Peter keeps moving, literally. He’s a 2x Ironman triathlete, a licensed skydiver, and a proud Peloton addict. He’s also a devoted dad to his daughter and the proud human to a rescue dog, both of whom, as Peter jokes, “consistently refuse to let me sit on the couch.” Peter is a frequent contributor and marketing expert for CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News, and has been quoted in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and countless other publications. He’s also served on advisory boards including NASA’s Civilian Advisory Council, where he helped guide innovation strategy for one of the most forward-thinking organizations on the planet.

THE AUTHOR BEHIND THE IDEAS

Peter has written six bestselling books that blend humor, insight, and real-world strategy, including:

The Boy With the Faster Brain (2023)
Faster Than Normal: Unlocking the Gifts of the ADHD Brain (2017)
Zombie Loyalists: Using Great Service to Create Rabid Fans (2015)
Nice Companies Finish First (2013)
Customer Service: New Rules for a Social Media World (2010)
Can We Do That?! Outrageous PR Stunts That Work (2006)

Each book delivers the same spirit Peter brings to his keynotes: bold ideas, real stories, and the belief that the smallest shift in perspective can change everything.

BEYOND INSPIRATION

Peter Shankman isn’t just a keynote speaker, he’s a force of nature. He doesn’t step on stage to talk at people; he shows up to change how they see the world, their work, and themselves. His blend of humor, honesty, and unfiltered energy transforms rooms into moments of clarity, the kind that sticks long after the applause fades.

Peter’s mission is simple but powerful: to remind people that different doesn’t mean broken and that energy, when directed with purpose, can change lives. From Fortune 50 boardrooms to classrooms full of kids who think faster than most adults can keep up, Peter is proof that passion, authenticity, and a little chaos can move mountains.

If you’re ready to inspire your audience, challenge assumptions, and create an experience they’ll never forget, Peter Shankman is the one you call.

LET'S START A CONVERSATION

Peter Shankman is more than a speaker, author, or podcast host, he’s a storyteller who helps people and organizations see the world differently. Whether you’re looking to inspire your employees, captivate your audience, or unlock the gifts of neurodiversity, Peter brings the energy, humor, and insights that make an event unforgettable.