Dr. Paul Stuart Wichansky
Powerful Speaker Testimonials
"You gave me courage , you gave me hope , and you made me smile again."
Invest in a leading motivational speaker who shares experiences that inspire confidence , growth , and opportunity .
Invest in a motivational speaker
who inspires confidence , growth , and opportunity .
Invest in a motivational speaker who inspires confidence , growth , and opportunity.
Frank D'Amico
Vice-Principal
Hasbrouck Heights NJ
October 2021
I cannot begin to tell you the positive feedback we received from students and staff about your presentation! It was PHENOMENAL! Dr. Paul, you have such an AMAZING and UNIQUE way of capturing the audience and bringing us on a roller coaster ride of emotions (and necessary emotions that we all need to feel more of each day).
But the amazing part about it is that just when I was feeling sad about something that you spoke of.... BOOM! You turned it into a positive!! (just like the Jock story). I felt awful that that happened to you in 9th grade, but then you finished the story and made your point and I felt so liberated and ecstatic for you (and the jock)! Such an example of how kids are allowed to make mistakes but then LEARN and CHANGE from them. Awesome messages for our young people to hear.
Near the end of the day, I walked into a class where the teacher was facilitating a discussion with her students about what they felt was "awesome about our Character Education Day." One student said, "I loved Dr. Paul's message of turning everything into a positive." So they stopped and spoke of that message and what it means to them as young students. The conversation was AMAZING!!! It was such a MATURE and REAL conversation for our students to have (especially after having such limited interactions with other kids this last year). I was so touched and moved by what our kids took from your time with them, Dr. Paul.
I cannot wait to join in tonight to see more of what you have to say to our parents! I know that you will help them remain resilient and positive about all of the challenges that they are experiencing as parents right now.
Everyone could use a little Dr. Paul in their lives.
Frank D'Amico
Vice-Principal
Hasbrouck Heights NJ
October 2021
I cannot begin to tell you the positive feedback we received from students and staff about your presentation! It was PHENOMENAL! Dr. Paul, you have such an AMAZING and UNIQUE way of capturing the audience and bringing us on a roller coaster ride of emotions (and necessary emotions that we need to feel more of each day).
But the amazing part about it is that just when I was feeling sad about something that you spoke of.... BOOM! You turned it into a positive!! (just like the Jock story). I felt awful that that happened to you in 9th grade, but then you finished the story and made your point and I felt so liberated and ecstatic for you (and the jock)! Such an example of how kids are allowed to make mistakes but then LEARN and CHANGE from them. Awesome messages for our young people to hear.
Near the end of the day, I walked into a class where the teacher was facilitating a discussion with her students about what they felt was "awesome about our Character Education Day." One student said, "I loved Dr. Paul's message of turning everything into a positive." So they stopped and spoke of that message and what it means to them as young students. The conversation was AMAZING!!! It was such a MATURE and REAL conversation for our students to have (especially after having such limited interactions with other kids this last year). I was so touched and moved by what our kids took from your time with them, Dr. Paul.
I cannot wait to join in tonight to see more of what you have to say to our parents! I know that you will help them remain resilient and positive about all of the challenges that they are experiencing as parents right now.
Everyone could use a little Dr. Paul in their lives.
Mary Jane Parke
Curriculum Administrator
Paul was outstanding! His assembly to the entire high school body was one of the best programs I have ever witnessed. The students were mesmerized, the faculty was totally focused, and I was tearing! Paul's positive attitude, sense of humor, and brilliantly executed video delivered his message(s) home to all in attendance.
My grandchildren are in awe of superheroes such as Batman, Spiderman, and Superman, but Paul is now their real superhero. You know the students are engaged when you hear a pin drop, when students ask pertinent questions, and when the assembly ends and students and staff gather around to shake the presenter's hand. I cannot sing his praises enough. I know those students left that assembly with the attitude that they can realize any dream if they put their minds to it.
Thank you for an excellent program.
Richard McMahon
principal (retired)
Nassau County NY BOCES
Arts-in-Education Programs
On Friday, Manhasset Middle School hosted the absolute BEST Assembly Program I have EVER seen in 30+ years in middle school education - the ABSOLUTE BEST I tell you! Paul Wichansky will warm the hearts of your students - he leaves EVERY single student in your building with three things:
- A smile on their face (this is Paul's main mission)
- An intense understanding of the life of those born with different abilities
- Finally, an appreciation for "letting everyone reach their own possibilities!"
This Assembly, "Taking the Dis out of Disability," has truly altered the scene here at Manhasset Middle School as much as anything I have strived to do over the past two years. It fit right into my Character Education Program, but it went much further than what I could have expected. At the conclusion of Paul's presentation which he calls a "simple conversation with kids," every student spontaneously stood and began a 5-minute standing ovation that sent chills of joy up my spine. What a guy Paul is! PLEASE if you want someone who will change kids hearts more in 40 minutes than anything else you do, get in touch with this charming man with a message from the heart!
Paul's motivational program was simply
"life changing." I hope [my testimonial] helps spread his valuable, valuable message. Please let Paul know I smiled ALL weekend!
Beth O'Reilly
school counselor
Dr. Paul taught kids that they can rise above whatever they are facing. He did a good job of pointing out the need to be tolerant of others who cannot achieve their goals right away. He did talk about his disability, but it was more about empowering kids and teaching them to do the best they can. -- Ms. O'Reilly's quote for a newspaper cover story ( NJ Week of Respect , October 2019 )
Richard McMahon
principal (retired)
Nassau County BOCES
NY Arts-in-Education
On Friday, Manhasset Middle School hosted the absolute BEST Assembly Program I have EVER seen in 30+ years in middle school education - the ABSOLUTE BEST I tell you! Paul Wichansky will warm the hearts of your students - he leaves EVERY single student in your building with three things:
- A smile on their face (this is Paul's main mission)
- An intense understanding of the life of those born with different abilities
- Finally, an appreciation for "letting everyone reach their own possibilities!"
This Assembly, "Taking the Dis out of Disability," has truly altered the scene here at Manhasset Middle School as much as anything I have strived to do over the past two years. It fit right into my Character Education Program, but it went much further than what I could have expected. At the conclusion of Paul's presentation which he calls a "simple conversation with kids," every student spontaneously stood and began a 5-minute standing ovation that sent chills of joy up my spine. What a guy Paul is! PLEASE if you want someone who will change kids hearts more in 40 minutes than anything else you do, get in touch with this absolutely charming man with a message from the heart!
Paul's motivational program was "life changing." I hope [my testimonial] helps spread his valuable, valuable message. Let Paul know I smiled ALL weekend!
Beth O'Reilly
school counselor
October 2019
Dr. Paul taught kids that they can rise above whatever they are facing. He did a good job of pointing out the need to be tolerant of others who cannot achieve their goals right away. He did talk about his disability, but it was more about empowering kids and teaching them to do the best they can. -- Ms. O'Reilly's quote for a newspaper cover story ( NJ Week of Respect )
Richard McMahon
principal (retired)
Nassau County BOCES
Arts-in-Education Programs
NY Schools
On Friday, Manhasset Middle School hosted the absolute BEST Assembly Program I have EVER seen in 30+ years in middle school education - the ABSOLUTE BEST I tell you! Paul Wichansky will warm the hearts of your students - he leaves EVERY single student in your building with three things:
- A smile on their face (this is Paul's main mission)
- An intense understanding of the life of those born with different abilities
- Finally, an appreciation for "letting everyone reach their own possibilities!"
This Assembly, "Taking the Dis out of Disability," has truly altered the scene here at Manhasset Middle School as much as anything I have strived to do over the past two years. It fit right into my Character Education Program, but it went much further than what I could have expected. At the conclusion of Paul's presentation which he calls a "simple conversation with kids," every student spontaneously stood and began a 5-minute standing ovation that sent chills of joy up my spine. What a guy Paul is! PLEASE if you want someone who will change kids hearts more in 40 minutes than anything else you do, get in touch with this absolutely charming man with a message from the heart!
Paul's motivational program was "life changing." I hope [my testimonial] helps spread his valuable, valuable message. Let Paul know I smiled ALL weekend!
Beth O'Reilly
school counselor
Dr. Paul taught kids that they can rise above whatever they are facing. He did a good job of pointing out the need to be tolerant of others who cannot achieve their goals right away.
He did talk about his disability, but it was more about empowering kids and teaching them to do the best they can. -- NJ Week of Respect, October 2019
Frank Barber
high-school assistant principal
Greater Southern Tier NY BOCES
Exploratory Enrichment Programs
Frank Barber
high-school assistant principal
upstate NY district
Exploratory Enrichment
anonymous parent
March 2021
I know that the K-2 children had [Dr. Paul's] virtual assembly yesterday and it left a lasting impression on [my young daughter]. She often struggles with feeling different from her peers.
Last night, as we were discussing our days, she said, "Mom, I learned at my assembly that diabetes isn't that bad everyone has something that makes them different." I tucked her in and cried, she had a moment where she was at peace with a disease that challenges her daily.
Thank you for leaving an impression on her. Everyone has something that makes them special.
Marshall Cohen
class president
Holliston High School
High school can be a challenge for many teens. Facing the greater challenges in life and also the need to be positive meant so much and was reinforced in your message.
As we stood to give a standing ovation to you, it was not as amazing as seeing you stand for us.
Jourdan Taylor
SkillsUSA
Youth Leadership Conference
Today, I saw not only a man, but a legend present. I had never heard of you before but now no one will hear the end of you. I had always heard "You can't!" my entire life, and I've taken it like gospel. You have changed that for me. Just one man, one small push, has completely changed my life. I can never thank you enough.
You are not only an inspiration, but a kind man that brings a smile to everyone's face -- before we even know it. You have not only inspired me and my peers, but you are a role model I will aspire to emulate for years. Thank you for your work and wonderful message, Paul.
I can comfortably speak for all when I say your message will last a lifetime.
Jourdan Taylor
SkillsUSA Youth Leadership Conference
Today, I saw not only a man, but a legend present. I had never heard of you before but now no one will hear the end of you. I had always heard "You can't!" my entire life, and taken it like gospel. You have changed that for me. Just one man, one small push, has completely changed my life. I can never thank you enough.
You are not only an inspiration, but a kind man that brings a smile to everyone's face -- before we even know it. You have not only inspired me and my peers, but you are a role model I will aspire to emulate for years. Thank you for your work and wonderful message, Paul.
I can comfortably speak for all when I say your message will last a lifetime.
Marshall Cohen
class president
Holliston High School
High school can be a challenge for many teens. Facing the greater challenges in life and also the need to look ahead and positive meant so much and was reinforced in your message.
As we stood today to give a standing ovation to you, it was not as amazing as seeing you stand for us.
Jourdan Taylor
SkillsUSA Youth Leadership Conference
Today, I saw not only a man, but a legend present. I had never heard of you before but now no one will hear the end of you. You are a truly inspirational man. I had always heard "You can't!" my entire life, and I've taken it like gospel. You have changed that for me. Just one man, one small push, has completely changed my life. I can never thank you enough.
You are not only an inspiration, but a kind man that brings a smile to everyone's face -- before we even know it. You have not only inspired me and my peers, but you are a role model I will aspire to emulate for years. Thank you for your work and wonderful message, Paul. I can comfortably speak for all when I say your message will last a lifetime.
Emma
high-school teen
From the bottom of my heart, Dr. Paul, thank you. You gave me courage today, you gave me hope, and you made me smile again. Whenever I start to feel down about the world, it is incredibly comforting to know that people like you exist - that you are out there somewhere, taking chances and making dreams come true. I hope you know what a special person you are.
There aren't too many Pauls on this planet. People like you are one in a million. But even if we can't all be Paul, we can still be someone.
And that is enough. That is more than enough. In truth, that is everything.
Emma
high-school teen
From the bottom of my heart, Dr. Paul, thank you. You gave me courage, you gave me hope, and you made me smile again. Whenever I start to feel down about the world, it is incredibly comforting to know that people like you exist - that you are out there somewhere, taking chances and making dreams come true. I hope you know what a special person you are.
There aren't too many Pauls on this planet. People like you are one in a million. But even if we can't all be Paul, we can still be someone.

And that is enough. That is more than enough. In truth, that is everything.
Rosa
5th grader
Today, you came to my school. You have motivated me in such an unbelievable way, not like the ways most grownups say: "Follow your dreams" or "Listen to your heart!" You have opened a new path and have made me peek into faith.
I think that every single child ought to listen to your life story, for it will make the future.
You are the start of a whole generation of important people. I believe that someday, maybe in 2050, or even 3000, there will be people that will make changes to the world, just because their grandparents, [us], have passed on the story of your life, and made/created the future.
Yesterday, I was afraid of middle school. Now I believe I can make it through. I would be so honored to meet you personally. My heart thumps excitedly at just the THOUGHT of meeting you, like your goal to meet Billy Joel, my goal is to meet you!
I have also told my parents about you. My mother and father were very impressed, and my mother actually cried! I believe in you.
Rosa
5th grader
Today, you came to my school. You have motivated me in such an unbelievable way, not like the ways most grownups say: "Follow your dreams" or "Listen to your heart!" You have opened a new path and have made me peek into faith.
I think that every single child ought to listen to your life story, for it will make the future. You are the start of a whole generation of important people. I believe that someday, maybe in 2050, or even 3000, there will be people that will make changes to the world, just because their grandparents, [us], have passed on the story of your life, and made/created the future.
Yesterday, I was afraid of middle school. Now I believe I can make it through. I would be so honored to meet you personally. My heart thumps excitedly at just the THOUGHT of meeting you, like your goal to meet Billy Joel, my goal is to meet you!
I have also told my parents about you. My mother and father were very impressed, and my mother actually cried! I believe in you.
Justin
2nd grader
Dear Dr. Paul,
Your presentation was heartwarming and inspiring. You inspired me to dream big and persist.
If someone is making fun of a kid with a disability, then I will stand up for them and say to the bullies: We are all people. We can all do the same things but maybe just in a different way because that person is unique. We all have to overcome at least one obstacle.
Dear Dr. Paul,
Your presentation was heartwarming. You inspired me to dream big and persist.
If someone is making fun of a kid with a disability, then I will stand up for them and say to the bullies: We are all people. We can all do the same things but maybe just in a different way because that person is unique. We all have to overcome at least one obstacle.
Strive for your dreams.
They can become reality!
Strive for your dreams.
They can become reality!
Dr. Rob Gilbert
Author
Sports Psychology Professor
Montclair State University
As a college professor for over 30 years, I've had hundreds of guest speakers in my classes: famous athletes, winning coaches, world-class experts, even the governor of the state! Only one of these speakers has ever received a standing ovation from my students: Dr. Paul Stuart Wichansky.
College students are appreciative; they are just a little reluctant to show it! Not so with Dr. Wichansky. He stole their hearts. For some, he changed their lives.
How do I know? My students have told me, sometimes years later.
Dr. Wichansky has spoken in several of my classes and, every single time, it was an amazing event. He is a remarkable speaker and an even more remarkable person.
Dr. Rob Gilbert
Sports Psychology Professor
Montclair State University
As a college professor for over 30 years, I've had hundreds of guest speakers in my classes: famous athletes, winning coaches, world-class experts, even the governor of the state! Only one of these speakers has ever received a standing ovation from my students: Dr. Paul Stuart Wichansky.
College students are appreciative; they are just a little reluctant to show it! Not so with Dr. Wichansky. He stole their hearts. For some, he changed their lives.
How do I know? My students have told me, sometimes years later.
Dr. Wichansky has spoken in several of my classes and, every single time, it was an amazing event. He is a remarkable speaker and an even more remarkable person.
Dr. Paul Wichansky is the real deal! His delivery and spunk through motivational speaking is unmatched. The way he uses his emotions, expressive mannerisms, and tone of voice puts you IN his life stories as he tells them to you. When he speaks, you feel like you are going back in time with him reliving [those] moments.
I walked away from his presentation in awe for how much one person can impact another through just words and life events. I feel grateful to have been able to listen to his stories. Dr. Paul truly embodies the unique qualities of a motivational speaker.
As he said to us, "No one can be you, better than you." Without a doubt, he will move you and inspire you when he speaks! Dr. Paul, thank you for making my life just a little bit better with your words of inspiration!
Erin Keenan
Graduate Student
Dr. Paul Wichansky is the real deal! His delivery and spunk through motivational speaking is unmatched. The way he uses his emotions, expressive mannerisms, and tone of voice puts you IN his life stories as he tells them to you. When he speaks, you feel like you are going back in time with him reliving [those] moments.
I walked away from his presentation in awe for how much one person can impact another through just words and life events. I feel grateful to have been able to listen to his stories. Dr. Paul truly embodies the unique qualities of a motivational speaker.
As he said to us, "No one can be you, better than you." Without a doubt, he will move you and inspire you when he speaks! Dr. Paul, thank you for making my life just a little bit better with your words of inspiration!
John Leyva
Department of Exercise Science
Rutgers University
Paul made me realize how disabilities do not hold opportunities back, but it just takes a different route to achieve the same outcome.
People with disabilities are motivated and happy, goal-oriented at everything in life, while the rest of us are usually content to reach a certain level and then stop achieving for more.
John Leyva
Department of Exercise Science
Rutgers University
Paul made me realize how disabilities do not hold opportunities back, but it just takes a different route to achieve the same outcome.
People with disabilities are motivated and happy, goal-oriented at everything in life, while the rest of us are usually content to reach a certain level and then stop achieving for more.
challenges
Strategically react to challenges
with focus, drive, and resilience.
Strategically react
to
challenges with focus,
drive, and resilience.
Jacque Ince, PMP
Global Operations Excellence Project Manager
H.B. Fuller
Dr. Paul Wichansky provided the PMI-MN Professional Development Days with an incredible keynote speech [in Minneapolis MN, September 2019]. His phenomenal journey captivated our audience, and truly inspired them to believe and achieve their next great goal.
Dr. Paul's speech was responded by a standing ovation from the crowd of 500+ attendees, truly a remarkable moment. I highly recommend Dr. Paul as a keynote speaker for any event in which you want to drive home the message that "anything is possible."
Dr. Paul provided the PMI-MN Professional Development Days with an incredible keynote speech [in Minneapolis MN]. His phenomenal journey captivated our audience, and truly inspired them to believe and achieve their next great goal.
Dr. Paul's speech was responded by a standing ovation from the crowd of 500+ attendees, truly a remarkable moment. I highly recommend Dr. Paul as a keynote speaker for any event in which you want to drive home the message that "anything is possible."
Wow was all that came to mind the entire time I watched Dr. Paul share his presentation.
The entire room was mesmerized - except for the laughter. Because that's what Paul does - he shares his life story and experiences with such joy, energy, and levity that you can't help but embrace the moment - embrace him.
And make no mistake about it there are also tears - but they aren't for Dr. Paul and the struggles he's overcome. They're for every minute you lost ever doubting yourself, letting someone take your power, getting angry, or overcome with uncertainty.
The tears release you and Dr. Paul empowers you - to live life and love life, to the fullest.
pharm executive
My mother received this thank-you note following my keynote at a NJ pharmaceutical company:
"Dear Mrs. Wichansky, I want to share with you how very moved I am by your familiar story and the fantastic man you have raised, your son Paul. Paul came to host a presentation for my pharmaceutical company last week and I literally wept with joy and hope through his entire, riveting story. As a mother of five, I was most impressed by the acknowledgement and deep gratitude he gave to you and your family. Life holds many challenges, some greater than others, but your family has triumphed over a big list of unique challenges. To see and hear your son eloquently share your story -- with love, humor, humility, and great power -- was truly inspiring. I thank you and Paul for sharing it."
Andrea Davis
Writer
Wow was all that came to mind the entire time I watched Dr. Paul share his presentation.
The entire room was mesmerized - except for the laughter. Because that's what Paul does - he shares his life story with such joy, energy, and levity that you can't help but embrace the moment - embrace him.
And make no mistake about it. There are also tears - but they aren't for Dr. Paul and the struggles he's overcome. They're for every minute you lost ever doubting yourself, letting someone take your power, getting angry, or overcome with uncertainty.
The tears release you and Dr. Paul empowers you - to live life and love life, to the fullest.
Thanks to you, our conference maintained the interest of all in attendance for the entire day! Your keynote address was overwhelmingly appreciated and enjoyed! Thank you for sharing your personal testimonies with the 250 professionals in the fields of prevention, substance abuse, and disability services from across the state of NJ.
Marilyn Kinelski
Coordinator of Special Projects
Prevention FIRST
Thanks to you, our conference maintained the interest of all in attendance for the entire day! Your keynote address was overwhelmingly appreciated and enjoyed!
Thank you for sharing your personal testimonies with the 250 professionals in the fields of prevention, substance abuse, and disability services from across our state.
The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum has been honored to welcome Dr. Paul Stuart Wichansky as a keynote speaker for our prestigious Power of One eminent speaker series on two unforgettable occasions. He is fearless and can break through the most hardened exteriors to make meaningful connections and does so with absolute sincerity and genuine kindness. Paul is a gift to the world and we look forward to having him return to share his inspiring message at future programs.
Michael Wertz
U.S.S. Intrepid
Sea, Air, and Space Museum
New York City
The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum has been honored to welcome Dr. Paul Stuart Wichansky as a keynote speaker for our prestigious Power of One eminent speaker series on two unforgettable occasions.
He is fearless and can break through the most hardened exteriors to make meaningful connections and does so with absolute sincerity and genuine kindness. He is a gift to the world and we look forward to having him return to share his inspiring message at future programs.
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