"Real, human, and entirely practical—which is saying a lot in this messy, messy world."
Sparking the Courage to Say
“Tell Me More”
When communities face division, defensiveness comes easily—curiosity does not. Matt Lehrman helps audiences rediscover the courage to lean in, listen fully, and ask the question that opens the door to understanding: “Tell me more.”
His programs model how to create space for genuine dialogue—and teach participants how to foster that same openness in their own communities. Matt engages audiences through active reflection, authentic connection, and a shared commitment to moving forward together.


Meet Matt Lehrman
Matt Lehrman is a keynote speaker, civic facilitator, and public leadership coach trusted by communities across the country to spark dialogue, rebuild trust, and move people forward—together.
He works with elected officials, government staff, nonprofit leaders, and civic-minded residents to guide high-stakes conversations with clarity, courage, and purpose. Whether opening a conference or leading a retreat, Matt creates space for thoughtful reflection, meaningful engagement, and lasting impact.
As co-founder of
Social Prosperity Partners, Matt draws on decades of cross-sector experience to help communities navigate complexity and shape what comes next.
This session caused me to think deeply about my role and responsibility as a local leader, to wrestle with inevitable change, and to brainstorm ways to meet future challenges.
Annual Conference Attendee, Virginia Municipal League
Real talk with real solutions. You leave with an attitude to change things and a feeling of hope.
Annual Conference Attendee, Kansas Association of School Boards
Matt presents a topic necessary to restore respectful and productive public discourse and does so in a fun and engaging way.
Annual Conference Attendee, South Dakota Municipal League
Valuable, informative, entertaining, and passionate about the topic of making and helping people work together.
Leadership Workshop Attendee, Michigan Association of School Boards
Topics That Energize Collaborative Leadership
A Community of Possibilities:
Visioning That Invites, Unites, and Inspires
Communities don't just need plans—they need a system for inviting and considering ideas. This topic introduces "ideastructure," a practical approach to long-term thinking that helps leaders spark broad participation and align around a shared future.
Leading through Complexity:
A Compass for Governance in Uncertain Times
Complexity doesn’t yield, but leaders can navigate it with greater agility. This session introduces a practical framework to help decision-makers stay grounded in their values, balance competing pressures, and move forward with clarity.
From Conflict to Conversation:
Courageous Leadership for Divisive Times
When the stakes are high, what you say—and how you listen—can change everything. This highly interactive session equips leaders to foster trust, respond with care, and guide conversations toward real progress—even in disagreement.
The Future We Shape Together:
Let's Talk Possibilities
Part inspiring talk, part interactive experience, this session invites audiences to reflect, participate, and rediscover civic life as a space for shared purpose—not division. Blending real-time input with collaborative (and fun!) dialogue, it sparks new energy around what’s possible when people choose to show up for their communities—and for one another.
Book a call.
Schedule a free consultation to explore how Matt can help animate your event with an inspiring keynote and dynamic, interactive dialog
Request a proposal.
Invite Matt to recommend a tailored strategy for a memorable keynote with practical value your audience will appreciate.
Inspire your audience.
Expect your participants to emerge energized, connected, and ready to apply what they’ve learned to lead with greater clarity and confidence.