Doug Mader

"We had the privilege of hosting Andy Olds, founder of The Academy for Character & Leadership (ACLHQ), as our keynote speaker for Opening Day at Coldwater Exempted Village Schools. Andy’s message centered on the power of consistent relationships, connection, and trust—the key ingredients to moving from being really good to truly great. From the moment he began, Andy captured our staff with his energy, authenticity, and engaging style. Through concrete examples, interactive activities, and plenty of fun, he connected with our teachers and administrators on a deep level. The more than two hours flew by, and countless staff members shared afterward—both in person and by message—that it was the single best professional development session of their careers. What sets Andy apart is his credibility. With years of experience both in the classroom and as a highly respected coach, he speaks from real-world practice. His ability to weave character, integrity, and leadership lessons into every story resonated in a way that few speakers can. Simply put, Andy inspired us. He left our staff not only motivated but also equipped with practical tools to strengthen their connections with students and colleagues. His impact on our culture will be felt long beyond this one day. I cannot recommend Andy and ACLHQ highly enough. If you are looking for a speaker who will challenge, inspire, and energize your team while reinforcing the values of character and leadership, Andy Olds is unmatched."