Kurdt takes you into his world of adventure, exploration and wildlife. Facing some of the most dangerous animals in the most hostile environments on the planet. Pushing the human-animal boundaries to a level previously thought impossible. From putting two of Africa’s most deadly cobras to sleep with a gentle touch, to swimming with great white sharks and crocodiles.
His aim is to push human-animal interaction he plans to do a “Living With” series where he survives for a month in the wild with 5 top apex predators, living off the land, and spending every day with one of the 5 species including hyenas, komodo dragons, Nile crocodiles, grizzly bears and lions.
He aims to demonstrate that even the most deadly animals on the planet are deeply misunderstood and if approached with the right knowledge, skill, and energy, we can learn from them in an interactive way that does not have to be a death sentence. By showcasing the different sides of these feared animals he hopes to inspire people to protect them for future generations.
Kurdt takes you into the heart of an African lion pride. Analysing their social behaviours and structures after spending over a year with them every day with countless stories of how being confident and calm helped him integrate with the pride. He shares the remarkable lessons he learned about both the lions, and in the process lessons he learned about himself.
Kurdt talks about what it takes to pull off these feats with some of the world’s most dangerous animals. He shares his experiences of how he survived an attack by a 3000 pound black rhino, to being chased by a huge male hippo. There is never a dull moment when it comes to his tales of the extreme animal encounters he has experienced over the last 15 years.
He breaks down the importance of how remaining calm and confident is key in working with these animals, and how practicing these two factors are not only necessary in the wild, but also in everyday life – whether at home or in the workplace.
Kurdt explains how to achieve the highest level of calm and confidence when face-to-face with danger and ultimate fear. From physical exercise, to daily meditation, Kurdt shares how he sharpens body and mind to eliminate distractions and focus on the task at hand.
Calm and confident is the story of one man’s remarkable journey going deep into the wild, facing his fears with the world’s most dangerous animals in the most unforgiving landscapes, learning along the way how important it is for survival to stay calm and confident no matter the situation.
Kurdt truly believes that by cultivating a calm approach, and by forging confidence in one’s self, any human can thrive in any environment and achieve the unthinkable. Kurdt inspires his audience to get out there, explore, soak up as much experience as they can, and in the process discover what they’re really made of.
Key takeaways
Exploring the remarkable connection we have with all animals if we approach with the right mindset.
Ideal Audience :
Anyone with a love for nature, adventure and storytelling who wants to face down their fears and come out more confident and calm with a deep respect for nature and oneself
Kurdt has put himself in countless death-defying situations most humans would never dare to enter into, in the name of discovery and learning. Sharing stories of his immense adventures in the wild, Kurdt describes handling the most deadly wild snakes on the planet in hostile locations accompanied by terrified film crews on set of his internationally acclaimed TV show Deadliest Snakes of South Africa.
Kurdt recalls how patience and mental fortitude were of the utmost importance from his experiences tracking cheetahs, swimming with killer whales and sharks, and working with black rhinos deep in harsh African landscapes to document the intricate lives of beautiful creatures for National Geographic. Kurdt brings to life the struggles and lessons on living illuminated by his time building, and residing in, his Afro Montagne forest survivalist dwellings over 2020 lockdown, which became a news sensation.
From constant innovation and adaptation, mastering your environment and circumstance, and having a thirst for a life beyond the conventional – Kurdt is constantly reminded that the treasures of existence are a few feet beyond the boundaries of comfort.
Kurdt uses his vast observations of animal pack behaviour from his days spent raising lions to discuss the benefit of working in teams. Delving into pack mentality, Kurdt illustrates that you are only as strong as the team that supports you, and how packs in the wild work together in harmony for a common goal. Using his passion for fungi, he explores symbiotic relationships and the ever-evolving adaptability that occurs in nature, and how this can be applied to our personal and professional challenges.
Kurdt advises on the importance of conserving nature for future generations, and touches on how doing so can be profitable and rewarding for businesses in modern times.
He delves into the fear of the unknown, and facing your fears in the name of progress. Kurdt shares tips for fear/risk management in the self ,and how to build mental fortitude and self-reliance. His lifelong philosophy remains that fear can only be abolished with knowledge gained from lived experience and pushing oneself beyond your comfort zone.
Key Takeaways:
Ideal Audience
Companies needing motivation and inspiration for their teams, who enjoy storytelling of great feats and tales of daring human endeavour.
Kurdt Greenwood is a dynamic naturalist, conservationist, survival expert, and animal behavior specialist whose passion for the natural world drives everything he does. With extensive field experience across Africa, South America, and remote wilderness regions, he brings audiences a rare mixture of scientific depth, hands-on expertise, and gripping storytelling. His career sits at the crossroads of environmental science, wildlife behavior, and human resilience, making him a compelling guide for any organization seeking clarity on conservation, sustainability, and our collective responsibility to protect the planet.
Kurdt’s work spans endangered species recovery programs, international wildlife initiatives, and numerous conservation campaigns aimed at restoring ecosystems and strengthening biodiversity. With formal degrees in environmental studies and years spent studying ecosystem dynamics and human–animal interactions, he turns complex ecological concepts into accessible, engaging narratives that motivate action. His media experience and natural presence on stage make him an especially effective communicator for both technical and general audiences.
Kurdt Greenwood is a young, dynamic naturalist, conservationist, survival expert, and animal behavior specialist whose passion for wildlife knows no bounds.
With a deep connection to nature and a unique ability to communicate its wonders, Kurdt has dedicated his life to preserving the natural world and educating others on its importance. His journey as a conservationist has been nothing short of remarkable, blending field experience with a compelling presence as a speaker, making him a sought-after voice in the realm of environmental advocacy.
As a keynote speaker, Kurdt Greenwood brings a rare combination of passion, knowledge, and real-world experience to the stage. He captivates audiences with stories of his adventures in the wild, his hands-on work with animals, and his relentless pursuit of conservation goals.
Whether addressing corporate audiences, environmental organizations, or academic institutions, Kurdt’s message is clear: we must all play a role in protecting our planet’s future, and he is here to show us how.
Kurdt Greenwood’s expertise lies at the intersection of environmental science, animal behavior, and human resilience. Having dedicated his career to the study of wildlife conservation, he is not only knowledgeable but deeply invested in promoting a sustainable future. With degrees in environmental studies and extensive fieldwork in remote ecosystems across Africa and South America, Kurdt has amassed years of hands-on experience that inform his presentations. His knowledge spans a wide array of topics, from ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity preservation to human-animal interactions, survival skills, and conservation strategies.
His experience working with high-profile environmental campaigns and advocacy groups has reinforced his role as an environmental influencer. Kurdt’s expertise in survival training and bushcraft makes him a go-to for individuals and organizations looking to enhance their knowledge in emergency preparedness, resilience, and self-sufficiency. He offers practical skills and real-world insights that help audiences feel confident in both natural and urban landscapes.
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Kurdt Greenwood takes viewers on a journey into the wild, sharing lessons from close encounters with nature’s most dangerous creatures.
In this dynamic showreel, Kurdt Greenwood invites audiences to follow him into the wild for an extraordinary journey of survival, discovery, and transformation. From the African savannas to the depths of the Indian Ocean, he immerses himself in extreme encounters with some of the world’s most dangerous animals, including cobras, crocodiles, great white sharks, and the infamous black mamba.
Kurdt demonstrates how survival in these environments requires not only skill but also a mindset of calm and confidence. Whether putting deadly snakes into a trance-like state with a touch or swimming alongside apex predators, he emphasizes that facing fear is essential for building resilience and mental fortitude.
Beyond the thrill of danger, Kurdt frames nature as the ultimate teacher. He highlights how observation, patience, focus, and resilience skills honed in the wilderness translate into tools for personal growth, leadership, and high-pressure decision-making. His storytelling also draws from his work with National Geographic and Discovery’s Deadliest Snakes of South Africa, where he shares these moments with global audiences.
Kurdt’s mission is to awaken a deeper love for nature, encourage people to push beyond their comfort zones, and inspire audiences to discover what they are truly capable of. Calm and Confident is not just his personal story of survival, but also a universal lesson: in any environment, cultivating calm and confidence can lead to unimaginable achievements.
00:00–00:25 — Opening: invitation into the wild and encounters with deadly animals
00:26–01:05 — Stories of cobras, sharks, crocodiles, and survival in extreme conditions
01:06–01:45 — Nature as teacher: observation, resilience, patience, and discovery
01:46–02:20 — High-risk encounters for National Geographic and Discovery documentaries
02:21–02:40 — Closing: mission to inspire resilience, courage, and confidence in every audience
Kurdt Greenwood comes face-to-face with Africa’s deadliest snakes, proving that even the most feared creatures can be understood with calm, respect, and skill.
This high-intensity clip from Africa’s Deadliest Snakes showcases Kurdt Greenwood’s extraordinary ability to interact with some of the most dangerous snakes on earth. Filmed across South Africa, the cradle of humankind and home to 12 of the world’s deadliest species, Kurdt demonstrates that even the most feared predators respond to calmness, respect, and a steady hand.
The footage captures Kurdt handling green mambas, black mambas, and deadly cobras, showcasing behaviors often misunderstood as aggression. He explains that many snakes, while terrifying to most people, are incredibly sensitive creatures reacting to threats in their environment. By staying calm and applying gentle techniques, Kurdt shows how it’s possible to move these snakes into a trance-like state, a phenomenon known as thanatosis, or “playing dead.”
Moments of high risk abound, from near strikes to venom-spraying displays, yet Kurdt remains composed, underscoring his core philosophy that knowledge abolishes fear. The segment highlights both the danger and beauty of these creatures, challenging viewers to reconsider myths about snakes and to recognize the importance of conservation.
Kurdt’s encounters remind audiences that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to engage with it. His mission extends beyond survival: to inspire others to see wildlife not as monsters but as vital members of our shared ecosystem.
00:00–00:20 — Introduction: South Africa, home to the world’s deadliest snakes
00:21–01:10 — Handling green mambas: misunderstood aggression and remarkable sensitivity
01:11–01:50 — Demonstrating trance-like states with cobras and mambas
01:51–02:30 — Close calls with venomous strikes and spraying black mamba
02:31–03:03 — Closing: conservation message—understanding deadly snakes as vital, not monstrous
Kurdt Greenwood connects lessons from the wild to business leadership, urging us to rediscover our link to nature and protect biodiversity.
In this OMAN Talk highlight, Kurdt Greenwood explains how inspiration and success are rooted in our relationship with nature. Raised on a game reserve, he was immersed from childhood in observing animal behaviors and survival dynamics. Today, he uses that foundation to design corporate survival missions and leadership programs that connect business leaders with the raw lessons of the wild.
Kurdt stresses that true inspiration is impossible without feeling good and connected, and nature is a powerful source of that connection. When corporate groups return from expeditions in Africa or the Amazon, they consistently remark on the rediscovery of diversity and their own innate bond with the natural world. He challenges audiences to step away from technology, walk without distractions, and really observe what is happening around them.
He draws a parallel between business and ecosystems: just as every element in nature is interlinked and removing one weakens the whole, every part of a business must be respected and maintained. Neglecting even “small” components leads to collapse.
Kurdt closes with a warning and a call to action: humanity is disrupting ecosystems at an unsustainable pace, and it is “crunch time.” He advocates for respect, love, and stewardship of animals and biodiversity, reminding us that survival depends on keeping the balance intact.
00:00–00:40 — Inspiration, upbringing on a game reserve, and early lessons from nature
00:41–01:15 — Corporate survival missions: reconnecting leaders with diversity and nature
01:16–01:50 — Observing ecosystems and applying the principle to business success
01:51–02:20 — Warning about ecological collapse and humanity’s responsibility
02:21–02:30 — Closing: advocacy for balance, respect, and preservation of wildlife
Kurdt Greenwood reveals what it takes to capture extraordinary animal encounters, blending survival instincts with unmatched knowledge of behavior.
Wildlife Killer Shots pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to capture the natural world’s most breathtaking moments on camera. Featuring animal behaviorist and adventurer Kurdt Greenwood, the series follows him into extreme environments where every shot requires both skill and courage.
Kurdt’s gift lies in his deep understanding of animal behavior, which allows him to anticipate movement and capture rare sequences that most would consider impossible. His narration underscores that getting the perfect shot is more than being fearless—it requires patience, observation, and the ability to remain calm under immense pressure.
From snakes whose venom could scar him for life to apex predators in unforgiving landscapes, Kurdt embraces risk in pursuit of truth and beauty. The series showcases not just the final product but the journey: the planning, the setbacks, and the moments of sheer danger required to achieve “killer shots.”
Ultimately, the project highlights Kurdt’s dual mission—to inspire awe for wildlife while documenting its raw power—and demonstrates why nature’s most dramatic moments should never be taken for granted.
00:00–00:20 — Opening: the challenge of seizing the moment in wildlife filming
00:21–00:50 — Kurdt Greenwood introduced as an animal behaviorist and cameraman
00:51–01:20 — Risks and close encounters: snakes, predators, and survival stakes
01:21–End — Closing: the journey, the challenge, and the pursuit of killer shots
Wildlife conservation, ecosystem dynamics, survival skills, biodiversity protection, human–animal interactions, and environmental resilience.
High-energy keynotes, interactive fireside chats, educational workshops, and sessions tailored to sustainability initiatives.
A brief on audience goals plus any current sustainability or conservation initiatives to tailor the presentation.
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
Adrian Gostick is an expert in corporate culture, employee relations, and human resources management. With a prolific track record of successful publications, Adrian is renowned globally as a foremost thought leader in his field. His books, including “The Best Team Wins,” “All In,” and “The Carrot Principle” (a New York Times regular bestseller), illuminate the […]
Stephanie Decker is a true expert in resilience, courage, and overcoming adversity. In 2012, she faced a life-altering event when a devastating tornado struck her hometown in Indiana. While protecting her two children, she sustained severe injuries that resulted in the amputation of both her legs. Despite the unimaginable loss, Stephanie demonstrated remarkable strength and […]
Immaculée Ilibagiza is a remarkable and inspirational speaker whose powerful story of survival and forgiveness has resonated with audiences worldwide. A Rwandan genocide survivor, Ilibagiza’s journey from the depths of despair to becoming a leading advocate for peace and reconciliation is both moving and transformative. Her story is one of extraordinary courage and unwavering faith, […]
Never afraid to go try new genres, DJ BritLee emotive musical selections are his own therapy. Having grown up on his father’s eclectic combination of funk music (George Clinton, Morris Day), European electronica (Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream), synth-infused 80s music (Depeche Mode, Gary Numan, Human League)… all which became infused with his own love for various […]
Lital Marom challenges current and future leaders to develop a bolder vision for human potential. She believes that from human potential springs business potential, and it should be used to create a more sustainable, inclusive future. Lital Marom got her start building computer systems for companies in Israel and Europe, before advancing to lead global […]
Eric O’Neill is a renowned cybersecurity expert, former FBI counterintelligence operative, attorney, and entrepreneur dedicated to protecting organizations against the ever-evolving threat of cybercrime. With a career that blends real-world espionage with cutting-edge cybersecurity strategies, O’Neill’s expertise is unmatched in identifying and neutralizing threats before they strike. As the founder of The Georgetown Group and […]
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, innovation and expertise are paramount. Dr. Daniel Kraft stands at the forefront of this dynamic field as a Stanford and Harvard-trained physician-scientist, inventor, entrepreneur, and innovator. With over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, biomedical research, and healthcare innovation, Dr. Kraft has made significant contributions to the advancement […]
Meet Hannah Ubl, a dynamic force in the world of professional speaking, dedicated to transforming organizations into places where people thrive. With a passion for challenging traditional workplace norms, Hannah’s mission is clear: to create workplaces that don’t suck. As the Co-founder of Good Company Consulting, she brings a fresh perspective to the table, advocating […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
