• Gary Rifkin is one of only ten recipients of the Joseph J. Charbonneau Award. This award, presented by the National Speakers Association/ North Texas Chapter, is given to a person who exemplifies the highest standard of excellence and professionalism in the speaking industry and who continues to be of service to the local chapter.

• Gary Rifkin has been involved in the training and speaking business since 1987, when he began as a popular speaker at major colleges and universities. He has since catapulted into some of the most recognized and respected organizations in the world.

• Gary is an accomplished trainer and proven effective motivator for organizations including UPS, American Airlines, The City of Irving, American Society of Association Executives and the American Institute of Architects.

• As a highly motivating speech coach, Gary has prepared hundreds of clients to deliver powerful content-rich presentations which both hit the mark and inspire listeners to action.

• His speech clients include architects, physicians, association executives, government leaders, hospital administrators, technology professionals and professional trainers and speakers.

• His most requested speech, “Speak Like a Pro” continues to be one of the most popular programs at conferences around the country. 

• Family has always been very important to Gary. In fact, his current audio series is called “Grandma Says…” based on the wisdom his grandmother continues to share with him about feeling good, doing good, and being good.  Additional creative material is credited to his nephew Jack.

• Gary holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Penn State University and Bowling Green State University. He is Past-President of the North Texas Chapter of the National Speakers Association and has served as the Dean of the Charbonneau Speakers Academy.

There are certain “truths” that are critical to Gary's philosophy for doing business.

• Passion creates energy
  If we can help people discover and emphasize their passions, they will have a greater level of energy.
   
• When you bring your true self to a relationship, everyone benefits.
  If we can be truly authentic in all of our dealings, trust and synergy will follow.
   
• People are naturally good.
  “Goodness” is at the core of all of us.  It is events and experiences that may cloud this goodness.  With energy and passion, goodness becomes a given.
   
• You are never too old to learn.
  When someone is willing to learn, anything is possible.
   
• Work CAN be fun.
  When positive energy is considered a key characteristic of a work environment, the workplace can be both productive and fun.
   
• Learning can come from the unlikeliest of sources.
  Sometimes the most important lessons come from the places you least expect them!
   
• Music touches the soul.
  Music can be a powerful catalyst for learning!