Hire Richard Smith: Leadership & Entrepreneurship Speaker Inspire. Motivate. Engage. Transform.

When you need an audience that is inspired, motivated, and ready to take action—hire Richard Smith.

Why Richard Smith?

Richard Smith is a seasoned entrepreneur and leadership expert with a wealth of real-world experience. With no formal business degree—just a PhD in hard knocks—he started a company with only $500, growing it into a multi-million dollar enterprise. At one point, he owned Illinois’ largest minority-owned office supply business, securing national contracts with Fortune 500 companies and government entities. Along the way, he has successfully built, scaled, and sold multiple multimillion-dollar businesses.

Proven Leadership & Business Expertise

• Former Owner of Ready Computer Source, Illinois’ largest minority-owned supply distributor
• Former Co-Chairman of the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council
• Eight-Year Tenure as a Pastor, applying leadership in both business and nonprofit sectors
• Featured in Major Publications: Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, Crain’s Business
• Contributor to WGN (TV) & NBC on minority business development
• Small Business Representative for Presidents Bush and Clinton, and the Federal Reserve Chair
• President of Pro Biz Products, a leading merchandising and marketing firm
• President of Strategic LLC, a business development consultancy
• Managing Partner of Strategic LLC RD Investments, an angel investment firm

Speaking & Coaching Engagements

Richard has delivered high-impact keynote speeches, workshops, and leadership sessions at some of the most prestigious events and organizations, including:

• Chicago United
• Operation PUSH
• Chicago Business Opportunity Fair
• Quaker Oats
• BP
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Chicago Public Schools

Richard’s Coaching & Speaking Approach

• Inspirational & Practical – Richard understands obstacles firsthand and provides real-world solutions for overcoming them.
• Entrepreneurial Insight – Whether starting, growing, or selling a business, Richard delivers actionable strategies for success.
• Highly Engaging & Personal – He connects with audiences before and after events, ensuring a lasting impact.
• John Maxwell Mentorship – As a John Maxwell Team Member, Richard has access to a global network of leadership specialists.

Services Offered

• Keynote Speaking – Energizing and motivational opening or closing keynotes.
• Off-Site Retreats & Business Seminars – Deep-dive strategy sessions for organizations.
• Association Conferences & Conventions – Engaging, insightful presentations tailored to industry professionals.
• Sales & Leadership Training – Designed to boost sales performance, team leadership, and growth.
• Diversity & Inclusion Workshops – Helping businesses foster inclusive, high-performing cultures.
• Small Business Conferences – Equipping entrepreneurs with scalable growth strategies.

Unique Engagement Opportunities

• VIP Interaction – Exclusive meet-and-greet sessions for top performers.
• Charity Support – Auction a seat at Richard’s table to support your nonprofit initiatives.
• Post-Event Review – A value-added session to evaluate insights and implementation strategies.

Why Choose Richard Smith?

Richard’s candid, high-energy speaking style ensures your audience walks away inspired, motivated, and equipped to take action. He stays engaged throughout your event, personally connecting with attendees to make sure each participant leaves with a clear path to success.

Book Richard Smith Today!

Phone: 630-835-9451
Email: strategicmotivation@gmail.com

Event Types

• Business Development Meetings
• Board Meetings
• Youth Assemblies
• Men’s Conferences
• Minority Business Conferences
• Leadership Team Meetings
• Church Conferences
• Product Launches
• Motivational Speaking Events

Wherever you need an audience to be inspired, motivated, engaged, and ready to execute—Richard Smith is your go-to speaker for business growth and leadership success.