Derrick Tennant: Funny Motivation

    Derrick Tennant is a motivational keynote speaker whose powerful story of resilience and love inspires audiences to overcome adversity, embrace change and choose gratitude regardless of life’s challenges.

    Derrick Tennant

    Quick Facts:

    • Highlights:
      • Inspirational keynote speaker known for resilience driven storytelling
      • Former athlete whose career was altered by a sudden brain injury
      • Emphasizes the power of love, gratitude and perspective in healing
      • Relearned walking, talking and daily living through relentless rehabilitation
    • Formats: Motivational keynote speaker, resilience educator, inspirational storyteller
    • Audiences: Corporate teams, associations, schools, faith based groups and event audiences seeking uplifting, resilience focused inspiration.
    • Outcomes:
      1. Renewed mindset around resilience, gratitude and overcoming adversity.
      2. Practical tools for reframing challenges and embracing change with optimism.
      3. Deeper understanding of the role of love, support and perspective in personal growth.
    Reading time: 2 min
    Reviews: (2 reviews)
    Rated 5 out of 5
    • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
    • **Fee range: On Request

    Talent Services

    Keynote Topics:

    He worked hard to overcome physical challenges and now works just as hard to help others overcome trials through his comedy, magic and inspirational speaking.

    Derrick formed BLEEPFREE Comedy where you can catch respectably clean shows in clubs across the country.

    He also landed a role in the upcoming Jeff Foxworthy movie “Crackerjack”. He plays a one armed softball player named Lefty. “Don’t get excited”, Derrick says. “I’m just a featured extra. I think that’s like getting an F+”.

    Talent Short Bio

    Derrick Tennant is a globally recognized motivational speaker whose extraordinary journey from a life altering brain injury to a life of purpose has inspired audiences of all ages. Once a gifted young athlete with dreams of a sports career, Derrick’s trajectory changed overnight. After lying down to rest, he awoke three days later in a hospital bed, paralyzed and in a coma. Doctors discovered unexplained brain bleeding that caused irreversible damage, derailing his physical abilities and altering nearly every aspect of his life.

    The road ahead was daunting. Post surgery, Derrick had to relearn fundamental skills many take for granted: walking, talking, and performing basic daily tasks. But with determination, unshakeable optimism and deep support from family, friends and his faith community, he moved through grueling rehabilitation and began to reclaim his independence. Though he still experiences lasting effects from the injury, Derrick chooses to focus on the “right” side of life, anchoring himself in gratitude, humor and perspective.

    Central to Derrick’s recovery and ongoing purpose is his belief in the transformative power of love. The love he received carried him through his darkest moments, and the love he learned to embody reshaped his worldview.

    Derrick Tennant is not just a survivor; he’s a thriver. His journey from promising athlete to inspirational speaker is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and love in the face of adversity. Despite experiencing a life-altering tragedy that left him paralyzed and in a coma for three days, Derrick emerged from the depths of despair to become a beacon of hope and positivity for countless individuals around the world.

    In his early years, Derrick Tennant was on the path to realizing his dream of a career in sports. As a promising athlete, he was making strides toward his goals when fate dealt him a devastating blow. One evening, Derrick laid down to rest, only to wake up three days later in a hospital bed, paralyzed and in a coma. Doctors diagnosed him with random bleeding from an unknown point in his brain, resulting in irreversible damage.

    Following brain surgery, Derrick faced a long and arduous journey of rehabilitation. Learning to walk, talk, and perform simple daily tasks became monumental challenges. Despite the odds stacked against him, Derrick refused to succumb to despair. With unwavering determination and the support of his loved ones, he embarked on a journey of physical and emotional healing.

    Throughout his ordeal, Derrick Tennant credits one thing above all else for his survival and eventual triumph: love. The outpouring of love from his family, friends, and faith community provided him with the strength and motivation to persevere in the darkest of times. Moreover, Derrick discovered the transformative power of love in his own life, learning to embody compassion, empathy, and forgiveness in the face of adversity.

    Despite the challenges posed by his condition, Derrick Tennant refused to be defined by his limitations. With grit and determination, he gradually regained mobility and independence, eventually stepping out of his wheelchair and onto his feet again. Though he still grapples with the effects of his injury, Derrick chooses to focus on the “right” side of life, embracing each day as an opportunity for growth and gratitude.

    In Derrick Tennant, audiences find not just a speaker, but a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His journey from tragedy to triumph serves as a powerful reminder that with love, perseverance, and a positive outlook, anything is possible.

    View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

    Videos

    Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

    Speaker Contact Form

    Enquiry Form

    Overview of Derrick Tennant's Performance

    Derrick Tennant receives overwhelmingly positive feedback as a motivational speaker and comedian, with many users praising his ability to inspire and entertain. Attendees highlight his family-friendly humor, impressive magic tricks, and engaging backstory as key strengths. His performance is described as fun and uplifting, leaving a lasting impact on audiences, even days after the event. The inclusion of his sister, Julie, is also noted as a significant enhancement to the show.

    Strengths:

    • Inspiring and motivational content
    • Family-friendly humor
    • Engaging magic tricks
    • Positive audience impact that lasts beyond the event

    Weaknesses:

    • No specific weaknesses were mentioned in the reviews.

    Overall, Derrick Tennant is highly recommended for events, with many expressing eagerness to book him for future performances.

    Was this profile helpful?

    Talent FAQ's

    Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

    Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

    The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

    Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

    Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

    • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
    • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
    • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
    • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
    • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
    • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
    • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

    Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

    You may be interested in...

    Dr. Heidi Hanna - Stress Mastery Podcast - Dr. Heidi Hanna san diego
        Dr. Heidi Hanna is a performance strategist, neuroscientist, and bestselling author helping people and organizations optimize brain health, energy, and resilience under stress.
        • High Performance Expert
        Adam Braun - Image 02 (April 27, 2026)

            He helps organizations align sustainability with growth and innovation.

            • Humanitarian
            Alencia Johnson - Image 06 (January 27, 2026)
                Social justice keynote speaker and culture change strategist Alencia Johnson helps organizations align values with action, lead inclusively, and drive measurable social impact.
                • Social Justice
                Abbie Maroño
                    Dr. Andrew Ng - Image 06 (February 3, 2026)
                        AI educator and entrepreneur Andrew Ng helps organizations adopt machine learning responsibly and at scale through practical strategy, workforce upskilling, and real world implementation playbooks.
                        • Artificial Intelligence
                        Immaculée Ilibagiza - Image 04 (April 22, 2026)

                            She inspires forgiveness, faith, and healing through an extraordinary survival story.

                            • Inspirational Speaker
                            Gregory Robinson - Image 03 (April 7, 2026)

                                He helps leaders execute complex missions and deliver results under pressure.

                                • Leadership
                                Eric O’Neill - Image 06 (January 23, 2026)
                                • (5 reviews)

                                  He helps organizations stay secure in an evolving threat landscape.

                                  • Cybersecurity Expert
                                  Disclaimer
                                  The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

                                  These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

                                  Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

                                  All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

                                  Speakers Inc.

                                  Connecting you with the perfect speaker.

                                  We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.

                                  Find the Perfect Speaker

                                  Tell us about your event and we’ll match you with the right speaker.

                                  © All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

                                  AI Assistant
                                  Speakers Inc Logo 2024
                                  Privacy Overview

                                  This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.