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Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Why Our Public Speakers near Alabama Are Perfect for Your Audience

Set the Stage for Impact

When you’re planning an event that matters, the right speaker can make all the difference. A great speaker does more than just talk—they inspire, engage, and move people to think and act differently. Whether you're organizing a corporate conference, leadership retreat, school assembly, or nonprofit fundraiser, you want someone who can connect with your audience on a meaningful level. At McKinley’s Thoughts, we understand the power of a compelling voice—and we specialize in helping you find the one that fits your unique needs.

Tailored Speaking That Resonates

From the moment we connect, our focus is on understanding your event, your goals, and the message you want to deliver. We’re not a one-size-fits-all agency. Our network of speakers is diverse, dynamic, and deeply experienced across industries—from business and education to mental health, entrepreneurship, and beyond. Each of our speakers brings their own style and story, but they all share one thing in common: the ability to make your audience feel seen, heard, and empowered.

Why Choose Public Speakers near Alabama

Our Public Speakers near Alabama are carefully selected not just for their communication skills but for their impact. These are not people who speak at you—they speak to you and with you. They know how to read a room, how to adjust their tone and message to suit different groups, and how to ensure everyone in the audience walks away with something valuable. Whether it’s through humor, storytelling, research-backed insights, or powerful personal experiences, our speakers leave a lasting impression.

Customized Content That Delivers Value

What makes our speakers a perfect fit for your audience is their ability to customize every presentation. We don’t believe in canned speeches or recycled stories. Every talk is tailored to your theme, your challenges, and your people. That means your audience hears something relevant, relatable, and real. Whether you’re addressing workplace burnout, diversity and inclusion, leadership, goal setting, or team motivation, we help you find the voice that resonates most.

A Partner in Your Event’s Success

When you work with our Public Speakers near Alabama, you’re not just getting a speaker—you’re gaining a strategic partner in your event’s success. From pre-event planning and custom content development to on-site engagement and follow-up, we support every step of the process. We ensure that the message aligns with your brand, values, and audience expectations. We make it easy for you to deliver an event that inspires action.

Versatile Talent for Every Audience

For corporate events, our speakers understand the business world. Many have backgrounds in leadership, finance, sales, or human resources. They know the language of growth, culture, and performance—and how to speak it in a way that connects. For schools and nonprofits, our speakers bring empathy, motivation, and purpose. They help young minds dream bigger and challenge communities to come together for positive change.

Inspiration That Leaves a Mark

It’s not just about the stage presence—though we guarantee that, too. It’s about the outcome. Do people leave feeling energized? Do they feel challenged to grow? Do they remember your event for months or years to come? With the right speaker, the answer is yes. And that’s exactly what our Public Speakers near Alabama are known for.

Flexible Formats to Fit Any Event

We’ve helped companies, schools, and organizations across Alabama and beyond book speakers who made a real difference. From keynote speeches and breakout sessions to panel moderators and workshop facilitators, we offer a wide range of speaking formats. No matter the size or scope of your event, we can help you find a voice that fits and elevates your program.

Let’s Make It Happen

Choosing a speaker is a big decision—but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. At McKinley’s Thoughts, we make the process smooth, simple, and even fun. You tell us what you need—we take care of the rest. We pride ourselves on professionalism, transparency, and results that speak for themselves.

Book Your Speaker Today

If you’re ready to move your audience, elevate your message, and create a moment they’ll never forget, you’re in the right place. Our speakers don’t just show up—they show out. They connect. They inspire. They leave people wanting more.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthought.wordpress.com/2025/07/09/why-our-public-speakers-near-alabama-are-perfect-for-your-audience/

Monday, July 7, 2025

Transform Your Audience with Leading Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL

Inspiration That Drives Results

In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to inspire your team, energize your audience, and create a lasting impression is more important than ever. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, hosting a leadership conference, or organizing a school event, the right speaker can elevate your gathering from good to unforgettable. The right words from the right voice can spark creativity, drive transformation, and renew motivation across all levels of your organization.

More Than Just Speakers – We’re Change-Makers

At McKinley’s Thoughts, we believe in the power of purpose-driven speaking. Our handpicked speakers are not just storytellers — they are life-changers. With years of experience across industries, our speakers bring relatable stories, real-world strategies, and a powerful stage presence to every event. What makes us different is our commitment to understanding the specific goals and needs of your audience so we can deliver an experience that’s not just inspiring — but actionable.

The Power of Motivational Speakers in Madison, AL

When you work with top motivational speakers in Madison, AL, you’re not just booking someone to talk — you’re creating a transformational moment. Our speakers tailor their message to the unique challenges and aspirations of your team, ensuring every speech resonates deeply and makes an impact that lasts long after the applause. From corporate executives and business owners to educators and non-profits, organizations across Madison turn to us for events that empower, motivate, and move people to action.

Tailored Messages That Resonate

Whether you’re looking to boost morale, improve teamwork, or navigate change within your company, motivational speakers in Madison, AL offer the energy and insight to guide your audience toward success. Our speakers cover a wide range of topics including leadership, personal growth, mental resilience, career development, and innovation. No matter the theme, our goal remains the same — to help your audience see their potential and take the steps to reach it.

Experience, Passion, and Proven Results

Booking motivational speakers in Madison, AL with McKinley’s Thoughts means choosing experience, passion, and results. Each speaker in our network is selected based on their proven ability to connect with audiences, deliver powerful content, and inspire action. Our seamless booking process and personalized consultation ensure your event goes off without a hitch. From intimate leadership workshops to large-scale conferences, we’ve done it all — and we’re ready to do it for you.

A Personalized Experience That Goes Beyond the Stage

What sets our services apart is not just the caliber of our speakers, but the care we put into crafting a meaningful and memorable experience. From the first phone call to post-event feedback, we partner with you every step of the way. We help you match the right speaker with the right audience, and we go the extra mile to understand your organization’s vision and voice. We don't just want to inspire — we want to help create lasting change.

Fueling Momentum When It’s Needed Most

Now more than ever, organizations need more than motivation — they need clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. That’s what our speakers deliver. Whether your audience is facing burnout, uncertainty, or a need to refocus, our speakers provide the fuel to reignite their drive and potential.

Don’t Just Host an Event — Transform It

Don’t just host an event. Transform it. Choose a speaker who will not only speak — but also move, challenge, and inspire your audience to think bigger, do more, and grow stronger.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthought.wordpress.com/2025/07/08/transform-your-audience-with-leading-motivational-speakers-in-madison-al/

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Disgusting vs. Repulsive

Recently, I heard the word repulse during the homily given by my Priest.

The Priest told us a story of a Priest visiting Rome who had a routine of eating Eggs and Sausage for breakfast.  The Priest in this story at first could not get past having bread, cheese, and fruit for breakfast and found it repulsive to him.

He then asked the question to the parishioners listening, “Why do we repulse something good for us, such as the bread, cheese, and fruit, instead of the eggs and greasy sausage that the Priest was used to eating?”

Because of my value of emotional intelligence, I thought this would be a great topic to write about, as emotions are tied to both the words repulse and disgust.

Knowing that there is a difference between the words disgust and repulsed, I will leave it up to you how you interpret disgust and repulsed.

Many times, it’s the situation that will determine which word we use.

REPULSE Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

Today, I’m aware that our faces or our bodies can also tell a story if we are repulsed by something.

We eat something we don’t like, or the fact that when we were growing up, we would pinch our noses.

Babies will do it all at the time when you attempt to feed them something good for them.

I’m sure this has happened to you when we walk into an area that still lingers with the smell of someone passing gas who has walked away, leaving the crime scene, leaving you as the culprit.

What stories is your face telling these days?

I recently had the experience of someone being repulsed or disgusted.

It just so happened that I was able to watch and listen to a lady speak her mind as she exited the pews after no longer being able to tolerate a crying baby two pews behind her.

She was either disgusted or repulsed because she couldn’t focus on the homily and a crying baby in the background.

In that situation of the crying baby and their parents at church, I’m reminded of the quote “When we know better, we do better.”

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.”  ― Maya Angelou

Disgust Can Be Morally Valuable | Scientific American

“The disgust that we feel at the sight of blood or the taste of spoiled milk is familiar. And while this disgust is unpleasant to experience, it’s generally thought to be beneficial—an emotional response that helps protect us against the pathogens that may lurk in what we’re repulsed by.”

Knowing that there is a difference between the words disgust and repulsed may not be common knowledge to everyone.

Disgusting vs. Repulsive – What’s the Difference? | This vs. That

10 Signs Someone is Repulsed by You  YouTube  Dr. Todd Grande

I found this YouTube clip interesting as Dr. Todd Grande identifies the repulsion signs.

Bing Videos

Today our minds are full of different variations of various disgusting principles.

We live in a society where people all around can influence our thoughts.

I’m almost positive that each of us has experienced “The wisdom of repugnance” or appeal to disgust, also known informally as the yuck factor.

Wisdom of repugnance – Wikipedia

Why are people repulsed by one another?

We can be repulsed by the thought, idea, the behaviors, or even our actions.

In reading the article by Psychology Today, all too often, I wonder why people do what they do in public. “Nose blowing at the dinner table. Loud talking in public spaces.”

Are You Unknowingly Repelling People? | Psychology Today

Today, I challenge you to think about the words “Disgusting vs. Repulsive” and how others around you are using these words and how your emotional intelligence affects your thoughts, ideas, behaviors, or even your actions.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/disgusting-vs-repulsive/

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Bondage

This past week in the United States we had a Federal Holiday celebrating Juneteenth.  I have written about Juneteenth before, so I decided to label this one “Bondage.”

I’m aware that not everyone will see and read the word “Bondage” to mean the same things.

I am so grateful to have my freedom and not be in bondage as a slave.

Although slavery in the United States ended in 1865, there are still enslaved people around the world.

“The number of people living in modern slavery is growing, reaching 50 million in 2021 — an increase of 10 million in less than six years.”

Mapped: The countries where modern slavery is most prevalent

Countries that Still Have Slavery 2025

Nowadays, depending on who you talk to and their willingness to have an open conversation about Critical Race Theory (CRT) tied to Juneteenth depends on what each person wants to hear and how you hear the conversation as it relates to you.

None of us wants to go back in time; however, it’s difficult to forget when our nation doesn’t respect or trust all people.

Want a less divisive American? Just a matter of trust. | The Institute of Politics at Harvard University

Although the education system that we live in today may or may not teach the same way Baby boomers were taught; I know specifically when you talk about the word slavery you will get different opinions.

Knowing that slavery was finally ended throughout the entire country after the American Civil War (1861–1865), there is more to that story.

As I began to read the book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson, blacks were at the bottom with whites on the top until 1865.

The caste system is still in effect today specifically in India.

Caste in India: What are Dalits and how prevalent is casteism in modern-day society? | The Independent

Did Slavery in the U.S. End on Juneteenth? | TIME

I’m so grateful for the insight of President Abraham Lincoln issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, which ordered the liberation of all slaves in rebelling states.

I’m also grateful for the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, abolishing chattel slavery nationwide.

Ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment | U.S. Constitution Annotated | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute

For me it’s the process which took several years and the commitment of others to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

How you and I celebrated Juneteenth this past week was up to us.

I had that opportunity again to celebrate Juneteenth and reflect publicly on what it meant to me when asked why I celebrate it.

As I watched the various news mediums explain or highlight Juneteenth many were hesitant to say anything much other that how those in Galveston Texas were the last to know about their freedom while keeping it politically correct.

Juneteenth and General Orders, No. 3 – Galveston Historical Foundation

However, Juneteenth is much bigger knowing that not just those living in Galveston Texas were free from their bondage as a slave, but everyone.

Today we have various major global conflicts or wars that are still happening all around us outside of the United States.  Many of them experience their specific bondage for freedom.

We have heard the phrase “Freedom is not Free” which is credited to retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Walter Hitchcock of the New Mexico Military Institute.

Understanding Exactly Why “Freedom Is Not Free” – The National Center

Maybe I and those who served in the military have a greater understanding of freedom and what it means not to be in bondage.

Today, there is a constant barrage of noise that I must filter out about the various countries at war and how it’s affecting our economy at home in the United States and abroad.

Countries Currently at War / Countries at War 2025

Today, I challenge you to think about the word bondage and the freedoms that you are experiencing and enjoying right now.  Although 160 years ago (1865) may not seem to have been a significant number what is significant is it took 156 years (2021) to make Juneteenth a Federal Holiday and yet we have a sitting President complaining about it in 2025.

Donald Trump Marks Juneteenth By Complaining About Federal Holidays

It’s probably because we have a President who doesn’t understand the word “Empathy” or refuses to acknowledge it.

“Empathy can be defined as the ability to truly understand the feelings of others. It’s the ability to put yourself into someone else’s shoes, be aware of their emotions and their perspectives.”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/bondage/

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

New

This past weekend many celebrated Father’s Day in their way.

As I sat in the pews during Mass this weekend reflecting on Solemnity of the Most Trinity: Meaning of One God in Three Persons I also thought about the word New.

It was about having faith, and understanding what Trinity Sunday was all about.

How fitting for Trinity Sunday (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) to align with Father’s Day this year.

Today, I invite you to think about the word “New!”

I initially thought about a litany of words and tried to write them down as fast as I could as I attempt to share my list with you.

Here’s my list of things I wrote down in under a minute tied to the word “new.”

They are New Relationships, New Revelations, New Thoughts, New Ideas, New Cars, New Homes, New Friends, New Restaurants to Try, New Products to Try, New Hair Styles, New Medications, New Tires, New Experiences, New places to go or visit, New ideas to add to our bucket list, New Dreams, New Attitudes, New Recipes to try, New Visions to pursue, New Books to read, and a New Life of possibilities.

What’s your list of “New” things that is on your mind?

Every day, you and I wake up with New Life because we can see another day that others have not seen yet.

I received a new perspective when a good friend of mine sent me the song “Color Me Father” by the Winstons to listen and reflect upon yesterday.

I had not listened to that specific song in many years as it brought new thoughts about my life and the life of my father who is no longer living.

I have four sisters and three brothers so you can imagine after listening to “Color Me Father” that song talks about what it takes to raise a large family.

I never went without anything thanks to my father.

The Winstons – Color Him Father 1969

I also thought about those father’s celebrating their first Father’s Day with or without their father being present.

In doing so I also thought about how we focus our energy on new things which was tied the song by Tye Tribbett “All Things New.”

You and I now live in a new society with different norms that we have not seen in the past.

We wake up to new news as we discover changes that are happening globally and locally within our communities.

We hear news from New York, New Jersey, New Mexico, and New Orleans, and about our New Pope.

Today, I challenge you to think about all things new or what might be new in your life.   Maybe it’s learning a new language.  As you begin your week find something new to put your energy into.

I’ll close using these two quotes by Catherine Pulsifer:

“Every day is a chance to begin again. Don’t focus on the failures of yesterday, start today with positive thoughts and expectations.” – Catherine Pulsifer

“Don’t live your life regretting yesterday. Live your life so tomorrow you won’t regret today.” – Catherine Pulsifer

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/new/

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Seeds of Grace

This past weekend I thought about seeds, but not just any type of seeds.  It was seeds of grace.

I was inspired last weekend while in Louisiana to learn how sugarcane is planted by a gentleman who is the father of one of my good friends.

There is something special about sugar cane when people chew it and they chew it for a reason.  I’ve never chewed sugar cane and maybe during my next visit if the harvest is right and I’m offered an opportunity to taste a piece I’ll try it.

I’m sure my Dentist would tell me to pass on it to protect my teeth, but I’m placing it on my bucket list.

The father also happens to be the last surviving sibling from his family with one son, his only child, to carry his name’s sake.

As I visited the property, he maintained a small garden in a big area to maintain.  He told me it takes about three hours to cut the grass to give you an idea of how large of an area we are talking about as it relates to his property. He has all the toys by the way to maintain that property.

His property has been in his generation for years.  You know it when you see streets or roads named after the family name.

Nevertheless, regardless of the size of his garden, it was maintained through seeds of grace and weather conditions.

I also had a chance to see okra plants growing on my friend’s cousin’s property, once again handed down from generation to generation as his cousin gave me another lesson on planting this time it was about how okra is planted.

Two years ago, I was able to walk and ride to the property and knew where his father was living and where my friend’s grandfather and his father owned land that now has the children of their descendants living on it.

It was seeds of grace planted deep in the roots of family tradition to maintain such land and keep it in the family name.

In both situations, I learned about the importance of planting around the moon.

Maybe you were like me and planted something and some plants sprouted just right and others didn’t.

Just like the plants that are allowed to grow, we are allowed to grow.

Sometimes the lives of those we love are cut short, but it was various seeds of grace our parents and those around us who deposited them within us before they were called by God.

Our hearts go out to family and friends when we hear about the sudden loss of someone close to us, especially when we didn’t know it would be our last time seeing that person.

As I continue to grow older, I have learned that it is not about how much money you have, how big your home is, or the cars you drive.

Sometimes we must take note of how our lives are treating us and see our life in retrospect, by figuring out what we were doing years ago that prepared us for moments like these.

Last week at my Toastmasters meeting I spoke of “Turning Points” and only had to reflect on 1998 when I had a turning point in my life with seeds of grace being deposited for me.

It’s those little deposits of seeds of grace within our lives where we can see kindness in others and determine the path that we want to take in life from past lessons.

I truly treasure great company and that feeling of family as well.  Not always do I get to have weekends whereas seeds of grace are deposited in me.

Especially, when I am laughing and enjoying the company around me.

As I reflect on a speech that a member of my Toastmasters club gave about friends and my recent blogs I wrote about “Friends” and “Great Friends;” there was a connection when she spoke about having friends for over 40 plus years.

I can imagine all the seeds of grace that they deposited on each other over the years.

I also remember very clearly when I went on a Men’s Retreat over ten years ago, with all the seeds of grace deposited on me, and how I felt after a weekend of fellowship with men sharing the same faith.

Sometimes the various seeds of grace have been deposited by our ancestors through the prayers of those before we were even born. (Great-Great Grandfathers and Great-Great Grandmothers and the generations before them.)

I know my wife’s mother has a list she prays every day before going to bed which takes about two hours.  It’s those seeds of grace that continue to be deposited daily.

Last Saturday, I had the opportunity to bring Holy Communion to my 103-year-old Brother Knight who will turn 104 in the first week of August.  I know he is praying for me just like I am praying for him.  I have been bringing Holy Communion since he was 100 years old.

As I close, I’m thinking of Pentecost Sunday, which was celebrated yesterday, and the commemoration of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the early disciples of Jesus Christ and their opportunity to be in Jesus’ presence and how their seeds of grace continue over 2000 years.

The book of Acts says it was “Poured out on all flesh.” (Acts 2:17)

Acts 2:17 In the last days, God says, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.

Today, on this day those same feelings of seeds of grace continue to resonate with me as I get an opportunity to share my faith with my friends.

It’s those lessons that have been deposited within me that I get to share with others, while also practicing humbleness and humility knowing that I don’t always have the answer.

That’s where the humility of knowing that even though we don’t know the answer we can continue to look in various places or people and find it.

I’ll close by saying this, the parents of my good friend that I was able to visit in Louisiana last month have sown many seeds of grace within their community and family. They have also deposited seeds of grace on me in ways that I can’t explain or describe fully with words.

As I continue to learn various things in life, one thing for sure is I welcome the seeds of grace that are in my life.

Today, I challenge you to think about what seeds of grace have been deposited in you and how you are replanting or returning those seeds of grace in others.

I’ll leave you with two quotes:

“You should never try to be better than someone else, you should always be learning from others. But you should never cease trying to be the best you could be because that’s under your control and the other isn’t.”  ~John Wooden

“If you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it.”  ~Margaret Fuller

Sunday, June 8, 2025

Public Speakers in Alabama Who Make Every Event Unforgettable

In today's dynamic event landscape, the essence of a memorable gathering lies not just in its logistics but in the resonance it creates among attendees. Whether it's a corporate summit, a community workshop, or a leadership seminar, the heartbeat of these events is often the speaker who takes the stage. Their words have the power to inspire, challenge, and transform, turning ordinary meetings into extraordinary experiences.

The Transformative Power of Public Speaking

Public speaking is more than just delivering a message; it's about forging connections, igniting passions, and driving change. In Alabama, a state rich in history and cultural diversity, the role of a speaker transcends traditional boundaries. They become storytellers, educators, and motivators, weaving narratives that reflect the unique spirit of the region and its people.

Why Public Speakers in Alabama Stand Out

Public speakers in Alabama bring a distinctive blend of authenticity, experience, and cultural relevance to their engagements. Their deep understanding of local values and challenges allows them to connect with audiences on a profound level. Whether addressing topics like leadership, resilience, or community development, these speakers tailor their messages to resonate with the specific needs and aspirations of their listeners.

One notable figure is McKinley Curtis III, founder of McKinley’s Thoughts. With over 30 years of military service and a background in civil service, McKinley offers a wealth of experience in leadership and personal development. His sessions are known for their engaging storytelling, practical insights, and motivational energy, making him a sought-after speaker for various events across the state.

Tailored Engagements for Diverse Audiences

Public speakers in Alabama are adept at customizing their presentations to suit diverse audiences. From corporate executives seeking strategic insights to community leaders aiming to foster unity, these speakers design their content to meet specific objectives. Their versatility ensures that each engagement is not only informative but also impactful, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

For instance, speakers like Larry Weaver combine humor with motivational messages, creating an atmosphere that is both entertaining and enlightening. His ability to infuse clean comedy into serious topics makes complex ideas more accessible and memorable for his audience.

The Impact on Organizational Growth

Engaging public speakers in Alabama can significantly influence organizational growth and community development. Their insights can lead to improved team dynamics, enhanced leadership skills, and a stronger organizational culture. By addressing pertinent issues and offering actionable solutions, these speakers empower individuals and groups to achieve their goals and drive positive change within their spheres of influence.

Conclusion

The success of an event often hinges on the quality of its speakers. In Alabama, the availability of seasoned, culturally attuned public speakers offers organizations and communities an invaluable resource for inspiration and growth. By selecting speakers who understand and reflect the values and aspirations of their audiences, event organizers can ensure that their gatherings are not only successful but truly unforgettable.

Blog source: https://mckinleysthought.wordpress.com/2025/06/09/public-speakers-in-alabama-who-make-every-event-unforgettable/