Mark Valenziano
Motivational Speaker, Author, and Creator of Sensory Awareness Experiences
“For any of us to grow and get better results from what we do, we must periodically shake up our thinking, assumptions, and methods.”
A few years back, a global organization of chief executives from more than 140 countries asked Mark to create an inspiring and educational sensory awareness experience. He created a transformative experiential dinner event that challenges people’s thinking, gets them out of their comfort zone, refuels their gratitude and optimism, and inspires them to be better individuals and leaders. His audiences leave with a deepened understanding of empathy, a new way to approach uncertainty and resilience, and better prepared to navigate their most challenging times – at work and at home. Mark’s signature event, “Dining in the Dark,” consistently receives excellent ratings and won the Best Personal Development award from that same global community of business leaders.
Mark travels almost anywhere delivering keynotes and experiential events that are educational, fun, and memorable. His programs get people thinking, learning, and problem-solving differently. They’re all about opening minds, gaining new perspectives, and shifting paradigms. Whether a corporate or industry keynote or one of his experiential events, Mark likes working closely with meeting planners to ensure no detail is overlooked.
“Wow! Mark’s Dining in the Dark program was so unique, inspiring and fun! He got us out of our comfort zone and seeing the world from a different perspective. We learned, we laughed, and enjoyed a truly great experience. This event is a must!” — Kim Jeremic, YPO Winnipeg
“Thank you for providing the chapter with such a unique and memorable experience. Many people commented on how impactful your talk and stories were, and how it was such an incredible experience!” — Emily MacEntee, Chicago
“Mark’s Dining in the Dark experience had one of the greatest turnouts in our chapter’s history. His story is inspiring and his spirit is contagious! The event was highly rated and I strongly recommend Mark to other Chapters!” — Jose Jarquin, YPO Honduras
There are a handful of restaurants and event companies around the world offering something also called Dining in the Dark. However, their events are generally lighthearted and focused on the gastronomical experience. Mark’s unique Dining in the Dark Experience is soulful and deeply moving. As someone who has journeyed from sighted to blind, Mark Valenziano has profound insight into confronting difficult change, uncertainty, and insecurity.
Mark developed tools and attitudes which enabled him to build the very happy and successful life he enjoys. From his compelling perspective and with authenticity, Mark teaches people how to turn uncertainty to their advantage, replace insecurity with confidence, and build more meaningful productive relationships.
“It’s my sincere privilege to help organizations see more results. And doing so by inspiring greatness at the individual level, makes it rewarding and long-lasting.” – Mark Valenziano
“Mark did an inclusivity workshop for 200 of our employees. The feedback was incredible! Several people remarked that this was one of our best programs ever! His authentic style and moving message touches people’s hearts. During his talk, people were so attentive and engaged that they were physically ‘leaning in.’ Several days later people were still talking about what they took away from the event; now that’s real impact!” — Loretta Menke, Associate Director, Organization Development & Learning, UCare, Minneapolis-St. Paul
“We were so fortunate to have Mark Valenziano speak at our corporate event. Over the past 10 years, we have had various inspirational speakers. None comes close to Mark. He is passionate, eloquent, and gets his message across to the entire audience. After Mark’s talk, many attendees told me how much they enjoyed the experience, both professionally and personally. Give your people this gift!” — Karen Holzberg, President, KH International, Atlanta
Contact Mark Valenziano about Experiential Events, Workshops, or to speak at your event.