In this keynote, you will discover why playing small is no longer an option, how to leverage the neuroscience of change to rewire your brain for success, and the power of making decisive choices with the "Hell Yes" Test. Learn how to integrate these principles into your life to not only envision but become your future self. Get ready to challenge your limits, embrace bold changes, and step into a future crafted by your highest ambitions and boldest dreams.
Read lessLeadership starts within. This is the premise of the book and keynote First Comes Courage. Sonia will take your audience through the virtues and keys to courageous leadership and how to embrace the First Comes Courage methodology and compass. You will discover the keys to leading with courage through the lens of kindness, purpose, impact and resilience.
Read lessThis high-energy and inspiring keynote based on Sonia’s second book, Just Rock It! has become a life-changer for many people. Discover how to embrace fear to lead with confidence, courage and conviction. Sonia empowers her audience to shine and stand tall and be the impact they want to be, leaving the room wanting to rock their life and leadership.
Read lessForget the old-school, hard-nosed leadership approach—kindness is where it’s at Sonia flips the script, showing how leading with kindness and empathy creates engaged teams, resilient leaders, and organizations that leave a lasting impact. Packed with stories and actionable insights, this keynote proves that kindness isn’t just nice; it’s powerful.
Read lessThis powerful keynote is based on Sonia’s cutting-edge book Leadership Attitude, which explores why leadership is not defined by a role or a title. Discover the keys to a leadership attitude and learn how you can be a leader through your attitude, values, actions, mindset and behaviour. This keynote has been transformational for thousands of leaders worldwide, leaving the audience inspired to be the leader they want to be.
Read lessMenopause isn’t the end—it’s a rebirth. In “MenoRise Power,” Sonia redefines what it means to lead during life’s transitions, showing how embracing change can unlock unprecedented strength, confidence, and clarity. Whether it’s menopause or other life shifts, this keynote empowers women (and men!) to embrace their next chapter with boldness and purpose.
Read lessWhat if you could rewire your brain to be a more effective, confident, and inspiring leader? In “The Power of Neuroscience,” Sonia McDonald reveals the groundbreaking science behind how our brains work—and how to harness that power to lead with clarity, emotional intelligence, and resilience. This keynote blends cutting-edge neuroscience with practical strategies to help leaders unlock their potential, make better decisions, and inspire their teams like never before.
Read lessIn a world of constant change and chaos, calm, composed leadership is the ultimate superpower. Sonia’s “The Stoic Leader” keynote draws on timeless Stoic principles to teach you how to lead with clarity, courage, and unwavering purpose. Packed with practical wisdom and real-life applications, this talk equips leaders with the mindset to navigate challenges, stay grounded under pressure, and inspire those they lead.
Read lessWhat’s the secret to building teams that not only perform but truly thrive? It’s all about leading with heart, clarity, and unwavering strength. In this dynamic keynote, Sonia reveals the tools and strategies to transform your team into a high-performing powerhouse. From fostering trust and connection to driving results with purpose, this is your playbook for creating a team culture that shines.
Read lessInspiring Action and Empowering Courageous & Kind Leadership Worldwide
Sonia McDonald’s is an internationally respected leadership expert, speaker, and author renowned for her dynamic and captivating presentations that inspire, empower, and transform audiences. With over 30 years of experience in leadership and organisational culture, Sonia brings a unique blend of energy, empathy, kindness, and humour to her keynote speeches, making complex topics like organisational development, workplace diversity and the neuroscience of leadership, easily understandable and actionable.
As the CEO and founder of LeadershipHQ, Sonia has presented to some of the nation’s largest companies and events, translating her deep expertise in neuroscience and leadership into implementable strategies across diverse sectors and industries including retail, education, construction and engineering, consulting, executive search and the public sector. Her mission is clear: to create great leaders and empower individuals to drive meaningful change and action.
Sonia’s keynotes explore how exploring vulnerability, authenticity, and resilience are essential for effective leadership. Drawing from her extensive research and real-world experience, she equips leaders at all levels with practical tools and strategies to unleash their full potential and achieve outstanding results.
An award-winning author and influential voice, Sonia’s books include “Leadership Attitude”, “Just Rock It”, and “First Comes Courage”. She’s a regular contributor to publications such as The Australian and HRD Magazine and has been recognised globally as one of the Top 250 Influential Women and Top 100 Australian Entrepreneurs by Richtopia.
Whether speaking at conferences, workshops, or coaching sessions, Sonia’s high energy, authenticity, and humour are sure to leave a lasting impression, empowering audiences to take courageous actions and foster exceptional leadership ion their organisations and personal lives.