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Speaker, journalist & youth mentor

Dave Ungrady

Foster effective decision-making skills and life mastery in young adults with Dave Ungrady, speaker, veteran journalist, and founder of the Born Ready Project.

Trusted by Born Ready Project, 34+1 campaign

Dave Ungrady, Speaker | Inspirational Teacher, Author
Dave Ungrady

Dave Ungrady

Richmond, United States

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This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Richmond, United States

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Dave Ungrady's biography

At a glance

  • Award-winning career journalist with work in major publications
  • Author of Born Ready and three other sports books
  • Founder of the Born Ready Project and the 34+1 campaign
Dave Ungrady is an inspirational school teacher who worked for more than 30 years as a career journalist. His work has appeared in the Washington Post, the New York Times and USA Today, and on ESPN, CNN, NBC and Voice of America. He is the author of four books on sports, including Born Ready: The Mixed Legacy of Len Bias. Dave is the founder of the Born Ready Project, which teaches life skills to teenagers and young adults, the 34+1 campaign, which promotes effective decision-making skills for young adults, and the production of a documentary on Len Bias's legacy.

Why we recommend booking Dave

Dave offers your team or business the unique opportunity to learn from a seasoned journalist and author with deep insights into sports, resilience, and decision-making. His engaging storytelling and life lessons from the Born Ready Project will inspire and equip your group for success in both personal and professional realms.

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Trusted by Born Ready Project, 34+1 campaign

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Dave Ungrady for my next event?
Email dave.ungrady@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Dave's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Dave Ungrady's speaking style like?
Dave Ungrady draws on his 30-year career in journalism and his authorship of Born Ready: The Mixed Legacy of Len Bias to frame sessions around the life and legacy of Len Bias as a vehicle for teaching life skills and decision-making to young adults.
What topics does Dave Ungrady specialise in?
Dave Ungrady speaks on leadership development, decision-making, and storytelling for young adults, drawing on his work with the Born Ready Project and the 34+1 campaign. He spent more than 30 years as a career journalist, with work published in the Washington Post, the New York Times, and USA Today, and broadcast on ESPN, CNN, and NBC.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.