Described by Harvard Business Review as “an astonishing display of visual storytelling,” Chris Hadfield’s keynotes leave audiences energized and equipped with tools to lead with clarity and courage.
Colonel Chris Hadfield is one of the most accomplished and recognized astronauts in the world—an International Space Station commander, fighter pilot, bestselling author, and global thought leader on leadership, change, and high-performance teamwork. With decades of experience navigating complex, high-stakes environments—both in orbit and on Earth—he brings unparalleled insights into managing through uncertainty, adapting to change, and inspiring excellence.
A former NASA Director of Operations in Russia and astronaut on three space missions, Hadfield’s resume includes building space stations, walking in space, and commanding a multinational crew aboard the ISS. Today, he serves as an advisor to SpaceX and Virgin Galactic, co-founded the Space Stream at the Creative Destruction Lab, and works with King Charles III on sustainable space business practices.
A bestselling author and musician, Hadfield released the first album ever to be recorded in space; it includes a video version of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity,” which Bowie himself called “possibly the most poignant version of the song ever created,” and which has been viewed over 75 million times.
Hadfield’s keynote talks blend science, adventure, and human connection—reminding us what’s possible when we stay curious, embrace change, and lead with purpose.
- Leadership and Risk Management in Extreme Environments
- Commanding a spaceship takes superb leadership. Discover insights through Chris' tenure at the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Space Agency and NASA where he has developed and honed leadership theories and practices that have taken him to the very top. Explore strategic leadership tactics with examples from his own experiences as a US Navy top test pilot, NASA’s Director of Operations in Russia, and as a Commander of the International Space Station among others.
- Space Exploration and Innovation
- Learn more about the business of space. As a leader and innovator of the business of space, Chris is the director of public and private companies: an advisor to SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, Astrolab, and Planet; chair of the Open Lunar Foundation; and many others. Explore insights into this growing industry and understand the factors that have contributed to its growth.
- Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Excellence
- Discover insights on how to manage complexity and change. As a commander of a spaceship, Chris has been faced with the highest of stakes: human lives, irreplaceable and expensive equipment, and worldwide scrutiny. Drawing from his past experiences, learn more about the best strategies to help individuals, teams, and leaders prepare for and meet the challenges of our rapidly changing world.