Vanessa McNeal
MSW
IA, USI help audiences sustain high performance by teaching leaders that burnout isn't a time management problem—it's a nervous system problem.
"Vanessa is one of the best in the business. I love that it's not your typical leadership talk, it's the talk you actually need to hear"
Vanessa helps audiences unlock their next level of performance—without running on empty.
Your talented people are delivering results, but at a cost you can see: exhaustion, disconnection, and the quiet turnover of your best performers. Vanessa shows organizations how to get both: exceptional performance AND people who can sustain it.
With a Master's in Social Work specializing in Trauma-Informed Care, Vanessa serves as an Instructor at MindBodyGreen Institute and brings neuroscience-backed tools to address the human reality driving your business challenges. Her approach gives organizations permission to acknowledge what most avoid: your people are exhausted, and no amount of productivity training will fix what's actually a nervous system problem.
Her signature keynotes help talented people reconnect to themselves so they can show up with greater clarity, energy, and capacity. When people feel better, they perform better. And when they understand why, the change actually sticks.
Vanessa helps audiences unlock their next level of performance—without running on empty.
Your talented people are delivering results, but at a cost you can see: exhaustion, disconnection, and the quiet turnover of your best performers. Vanessa shows organizations how to get both: exceptional performance AND people who can sustain it.
With a Master's in Social Work specializing in Trauma-Informed Care, Vanessa serves as an Instructor at MindBodyGreen Institute and brings neuroscience-backed tools to address the human reality driving your business challenges. Her approach gives organizations permission to acknowledge what most avoid: your people are exhausted, and no amount of productivity training will fix what's actually a nervous system problem.
Her signature keynotes help talented people reconnect to themselves so they can show up with greater clarity, energy, and capacity. When people feel better, they perform better. And when they understand why, the change actually sticks.
Success Without Survival Mode
Format: 45-90 minute Keynote OR custom workshop
This program is perfect for:
- High-achieving professionals and leaders experiencing burnout or stress
- Leaders and Entrepreneurs
The ability to recognize—and interrupt—the hidden patterns sabotaging their leadership. Attendees will discover why they can't delegate, constantly overwork, or struggle to set boundaries. It's not...
Rewiring Workplace Relationships
Format: 45-90 minute keynote and customizable workshop or breakout session
This program is perfect for:
- Corporations, Associations, and Nonprofits,
- HR Leaders, Managers and Senior Leaders
The audience will leave with:
Understand what's really driving "difficult" behaviors—and how to respond effectively. That resistant team member isn't trying to...
The Readiness Myth
Format: 45-60 minute keynote Keynote, Break out Session or Virtual Session
This program is perfect for:
- This keynote resonates powerfully with audiences who have the skills and opportunity but find themselves stuck in preparation mode—they're ready to break through the internal barriers keeping them from their next leveProfessional associations and women's leadership groups focused on empowerment and career...
Becoming THAT Organization: The 3 Keys to Creating a Workplace Everyone Wants to Join
Format: 40-90 minute Keynote or Breakout Session
This program is perfect for:
Senior Leadership & Executives
- C-suite executives looking to improve organizational culture
- HR Directors and Chief People Officers
- Business owners and entrepreneurs building their company culture
- People Managers, Team Leaders, and HR Directors
- Organizations looking to improve...
Can't Climb a Smooth Mountain
Format: 40-60 minute Keynote
This program is perfect for:
- Individuals navigating career changes, professional setbacks, or burnout who need inspiration and actionable steps to turn challenges into opportunities.
- First-generation students, young professionals, or anyone at the start of their journey seeking encouragement and strategies to overcome barriers.
- Companies aiming to inspire their workforce and create a...
11 recommend Vanessa
Post your own verified review when you hire this speaker through eSpeakers.
Holmes Murphy
On-Site
Z.W., Sr. Growth & Development Consultant, Holmes Murphy
“Working with Vanessa brought a refreshing level of JOY to each interaction. The actionable practices shared through her talk provided leaders and individual contributors with the tools and insights to live a more intentional and grounded life, something that the everyone can certainly relate to in the fast paced and transactional world that we live in. The thoughtful work Vanessa has done to shift one’s stress response to a more proactive space will resonate with each and every single attendee, and I couldn’t recommend Vanessa more highly for any event, webinar, or meeting!”
Waypoint
On-Site
B.A., Waypoint
Verified @waypointservices.orgVanessa was a dynamic, engaging keynote speaker who delivered a powerful message on overcoming adversity. Her message radiated through the audience, leaving everyone feeling inspired, hopeful, and empowered. We were impressed with her wisdom and professionalism.
Iowa Center for Economic Success
On-Site
E.B.S., Project Manager, Iowa Center for Economic Success
Verified @theiowacenter.orgVanessa is a superstar. She is an amazing speaker, that is able to engage any audience just by her ability to command a room and tell her story. She's a powerful woman and someone I can't wait to hire again!
University of Northern Iowa
On-Site
D.A.H., Director, Center for Violence Prevention, University of Northern Iowa
Verified @uni.eduVanessa's ability to share with such gentleness and grace is truly courageous and inspiring. She's gives hope to all.
Chidl Abuse Council
On-Site
A.K., Director of Development and Communication, Chidl Abuse Council
Verified @childabuseqc.orgVanessa is an outstanding professional. She speaks with conviction and passion. In addition to telling her own story she draws from her education and knowledge to put together a presentation that evokes an emotional as well as intellectual response.
Youth Homes of Mid-America
On-Site
B.F., Therapist, Youth Homes of Mid-America
Vanessa will blow you away with her ability to speak about her story as well as tell other's stories. Hearing her speak will change you personally and professionally!
Des Moines University
On-Site
E.L.E., Chief Compliance Officer & Title IX Coordinator, Des Moines University
Verified @dmu.eduI so appreciate Vanessa's honesty in her ability to speak about very difficult subjects. Having Vanessa speak from her heart will inspire you and your colleagues.
BMG Associates
On-Site
R.P.G., BMG Associates
Verified @bmg-associates.comVanessa speaks with authenticity and a wisdom beyond her years.
Iowa State University
On-Site
D.P., Senior Lecturer, Iowa State University
Verified @iastate.edu"While speaking to groups of 350 to 500, Vanessa captures the attention of her audience as she shares her story courageously. She offers education and awareness to all as she integrates credible and relevant information into each presentation. The work Vanessa is doing is changing the world for the better!"
Air Force
On-Site
A.C., Sexual Assault Prevention & Response Program, Air Force
Verified @us.af.mil"Vanessa is an engaging and thoughtful speaker. Her presence is wise beyond her years and her story brought the audience in touch with a deeply emotional topic that was felt by all."
University of Northern Iowa
On-Site
J.T., Health Educator, University of Northern Iowa
Verified @uni.edu"Vanessa is a vibrant and engaging speaker. She clearly conveys her commitment and passion for restoring hope to those who have experienced hardships. Her authentic energy is truly inspiring."
Certifications & Awards
