Speaking
My favorite thing to do is to engage people from diverse backgrounds in thinking about life’s big questions. Here are some topics I can’t stop talking about:
Lessons from the 2008 Financial Crisis
Since Days of Slaughter was published in 2017, I’ve done book talks at venues ranging from “Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me” to C-SPAN to financial institutions. In 2019, I gave the Hutchinson Lecture in Macroeconomics at the University of Delaware and later spoke to graduate “Mandela” students from across Africa about the lessons of the financial crisis.
Management and Ethics
As an adjunct professor at Virginia Tech, I regularly lecture on management and ethics. I’ve also spoken at area high schools, church groups and business organizations about “doing the right thing.”
Leadership and Small Biz
A John Maxwell certified speaker, I run workshops on personal growth, organizational leadership and business basics.
Faith and the Public Square
My doctoral work focused on the impact of In His Steps (1896) on early 20th century public administration — and more work is underway. In 2019, I gave the Salzman lecture on Faith and Public Policy at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church in McLean, Virginia.
What People Are Saying
We just held a small group follow up to your leadership seminar this morning and received wonderful feedback (couldn’t say enough about how much they enjoyed it).
Susan Gates’ class has made such a positive impact on my life! She is a gifted teacher who brought the topic of growth to life by engaging all of the participants, drawing on relevant materials and pertinent examples. I was able to apply the lessons I learned directly to my life. This class was also a lot of fun.
Susan Gates is one of the most inspirational and diversely talented individuals I know. She is fearless when taking risks and vulnerable and real about sharing her successes and failures. This class came at a strategic/valuable time and is serving as an impetus for ongoing, deliberate growth in my life.Pam, Vienna, Virginia
Thank you for the gift of this morning. I came away with so much, Susan, and the acorn is the perfect symbol. You planted many seeds of inspiration in my heart and brain. Thank you for the nourishment. Just being able to say to my husband, “I have a leadership seminar on Thursday,” made me feel so VALID!
More?
Yes, I love to do poetry slams, seminars and weekend retreats.