Dandapani: The Risk Worth Taking

Gail Davis, 18 March 2024

I LOVE what I do. In my line of work I have the unique opportunity to form special relationships with both speakers and clients. I especially value long-term client relationships that are built on trust. I feel so fortunate to have built a life with so many meaningful connections.

In 2022 I was invited to attend a joint event with the EO Dallas and EO Ft. Worth chapters. One of my favorite things to do is get to be a participant and experience something as an attendee. The speaker that day was Dandapani.

As a Hindu priest, entrepreneur, and a former monk of 10 years, his expertise and message on unwavering focus and mindfulness captivated the room. I was absolutely mesmerized and took copious notes along with the rest of the room full of entrepreneurs. 

Afterwards, I rushed to the stage to meet him - I had to know more! Did he do this for large corporate clients? The answer was a big YES. In fact, he had spoken for some of the most recognizable brands in the world including Nike, McKinsey & Company, and American Express. He works with entrepreneurs and some of the top athletes in the world in helping them understand and leverage their mind so that they can be the best at what they do. He does this by empowering them with tools and teachings that have been used by Hindu monks of his tradition for thousands of years. 

I was so excited to tell my team about Dandapani. He visited the GDA Speakers office and our understanding of his content deepened even more - the team was hooked.

Fast forward to later that year and it was time to present the lineup for a large 2023 global sales kick-off for a client I have had the professional privilege of supporting since 2010 with over 100 speaker bookings. This particular client has amazing company culture and they are committed to continuously taking their events to the next level.

While the typical format was to start the event with a high-energy opener, we explored Dandapani. While he was strongly considered for the 2023 event, they eventually passed as it was their first in-person event since the pandemic. Then finally in 2024, the timing was right.

We locked in Dandapani before even finalizing the theme. Coincidentally, the theme chosen was “Dare.” The Chief Sales Officer set it up perfectly. After an energetic opener, he told the audience of almost 1,500 global attendees that it was time to “dare” to try something new.  After his introduction, the spotlight went on Dandapani who was sitting cross-legged on an ottoman, wearing a traditional Hindu scarf, beads, and three ash marks on his forehead - symbolizing mastery over ego, karma and delusion - and representing spiritual awakening and inner consciousness.

With stunning visuals and serene presentation, the audience was 100% into it. It was different. It was global. And it was most of all memorable. The extremely high rating from attendees proved he met the mark and made a lasting impression.

If your organization is ready to shake things up and take a risk with a speaker that will leave your audiences both amazed and empowered with practical tools, Dandapani checks all the boxes.