Steve Fredlund

Steve Fredlund is an Inspirational Speaker & Breakthrough Strategist who spent 25 years as an award‑winning actuary and nonprofit founder, before swapping spreadsheets for a microphone. While leading a trip to Rwanda, he discovered that true breakthrough doesn’t come from doing everything “right”—it comes from having the courage to do The Unright Thing™. That revelation inspired him to study what drives extraordinary change and build his three‑step Safari Way Roadmap.

Today, Steve helps people‑pleasers and right‑doers break free from the “good” and “fine” to reach their extraordinary—guiding audiences through vivid African safari stories, laugh‑out‑loud moments, and practical, actionable strategies. He is the bestselling author of Do the Unright Thing: Memoir of a People Pleaser and a two‑time TEDx speaker. Known for simplifying complex challenges into a clear, step‑by‑step process, Steve equips individuals, teams, and organizations to reconnect with their authentic selves, reignite passion, and bring renewed energy and impact to both work and life.

When he’s not inspiring others on stage, you might find Steve playing disc golf, calculating odds at a poker table, or enduring (and wincing) through another season of Minnesota sports.

Most Requested Programs

The Unright Thing™: Catalyst to Extraordinary

You've done everything 'right.' Your life looks 'good' on paper. So why do you still feel that quiet ache—that sense that something essential is missing? If doing everything right hasn't brought fulfillment, it may be time to try The Unright Thing™. In this keynote, Steve Fredlund reveals how doing The Unright Thing™ can shatter complacency and spark true breakthrough. Through vivid African safari stories, laugh-out-loud moments, and practical tools from his Safari Way Roadmap, you’ll learn how to clarify what “extraordinary” means for you, surround yourself with the right champions, and take that one bold action that moves you beyond “fine.” By aligning your actions with your deepest passions, you’ll transform everyday routines into deliberate steps toward a life and work filled with meaning, energy, and impact.

Testimonials

“Steve’s message of the “Safari Way” fit so well for our event. He was attentive to our content and incorporated an excellent session that resonated with our audience. His stories and message were a home run!” - RBC Wealth Management

“Steve was amazing. His down to earth message held the attention of all 300 employees. From new hire hourly employees to 35+ year salary managers. I received several compliments and was thanked several times for hiring Steve. We will hire again for future corporate events.” - Costco

"Everything about working with Steve was absolutely wonderful. He was fun, timely and wanted to meet the needs of our organization. I'd highly recommend working with Steve!" - KENT Corporation

“As an event planner, Steve was a pleasure to work from beginning to end. He gives you access to plenty of promotional materials to use to promote his presentation at your event and excellent communication from start to finish. He kept our crowd laughing and entertained the whole presentation. I recommend him to all groups who need to get the right people on board.” - Iowa Grocery Industry Association

"Steve nailed it! He has a comfortable, compelling storytelling approach that pulls attendees into his 'jungle' and keeps them wanting more! His ability to connect with diverse attendees was truly remarkable. The feedback we received from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting how inspired and motivated they felt after the session. I wholeheartedly recommend Steve as a keynote speaker for any event. His expertise, passion, and dedication to delivering value make him an outstanding choice for any audience." - Iowa Employment Conference & Missouri Employment Conference