The economic crisis, the housing crisis, the healthcare crisis, the environmental crisis, two overseas wars, the ever-present threat of new attacks on the American homeland—there is no question that we live in uncertain and troubling times. This is a time when visionary leaders can mean the difference between success and failure.

Randall Larsen garnered national recognition as an expert in homeland security following 9/11. Throughout his exemplary career, Larsen has identified and mastered the skills necessary for superlative leadership. From his extensive experience in the military, corporate, and academic & not-for-profit communities, Larsen has achieved unique perspectives and priceless insights on the challenges today’s leaders face. He educates, entertains, and inspires as he talks about leadership during troubled times and the necessity of building more resilient organizations.

Randall Larsen’s leadership resume:

• Vice President and corporate officer (1 of only 5) of a 400-person consulting firm, 2000–2003
• US Air Force colonel and former commander of America’s VIP fleet of aircraft at Andrews AFB, Maryland, 1996–1998
• Executive Director of the bipartisan Congressional Commission on Weapons of Mass Destructive Proliferation and Terrorism, 2009
• Founder & CEO Bipartisan WMD Terrorism Research Center (also serves as a board member along with former Senators Bob Graham (D-FL) and Jim Talent (R-MO) 2010-2011
• National Security Advisor, Center for Biosecurity, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 2004–present
• Department chair and professor of strategy at the National Defense University, 1998–2000

Drawing on decades of executive leadership experience, Larsen has provided valuable lessons learned to millions of people via keynote speeches, radio programs and national television. A keynote, "Lessons Learned from A Good War," was top-billed in the August 2008 issue of Vital Speeches of the Day. This speech was based on the screenplay Larsen wrote about the inspirational leadership that resulted in one of the greatest scientific and humanitarian achievements of all time—the eradication of smallpox.

Key Lessons from A Good War:

1. Ask the right questions
2. Set and enforce standards
3. Ensure proper use of technology
4. Leverage capabilities: Posse Up!

Vital Speeches of the Day, August 2008 (PDF)